If there’s anything the last decade managed to reinforce, it’s that albums and multi-song projects in general will always be a mainstay. As streaming increasingly became the primary mode of music consumption across the globe, there were initial speculations about the possibility of full-length projects losing their significance, which further aided by the prioritisation of playlists by streaming platforms. However, with the barrage of new music seeking attention from listeners every Friday, it is clear that the instant access of the streaming era has improved the two-way street of project release and reception.
Currently, the African music terrain is still warming up to music streaming, however, its slow and steady adoption has had a similar effect on the release of albums and EPs, even playing a direct role in the increasing musical diversity across the continent. While Africa remains a singles-driven market, the stakes around multi-song projects have grown considerably, serving as a solid medium to cement artistry and increase fan love. Reference points from last year include the crossover success of Burna Boy and Santi via their albums, ‘African Giant’ and ‘Mandy & The Jungle’, career-defining debuts from Fireboy DML and Lady Donli, and Rema’s rapid rise to prominence with the release of stunning back-to-back-to-back EPs.
We’re still in very early days of 2020, but it’s only right to project that this will be a banner year for music, especially pertaining to albums and EPs. With superstars like Wizkid, Olamide and Nasty C due for follow-ups to their previous solo projects, and ascendant artists like Tems, Oxlade and Darkovibes most likely dropping debut projects, the line-up for 2020 looks fully stacked.
So to get everyone excited, here’s a list of projects to look forward to as the year kicks into gear.
Tiwa Savage – TBA
It’s been over two years since we got a Tiwa Savage project, ‘Sugarcane’ (EP), and we can all agree that a new project is due. After a successful stint as the flagship artist of Mavin Records, Tiwa Savage made a potentially big move by signing an international recording contract with Universal Music Group. The singer has been relatively busy since, dropping three singles, “49-99”, “Owo Mi Da” and “Attention” which she performed on A Colors Show last November. With Universal’s resources at her disposal, Tiwa is primed to make an even bigger splash this year, and we think a full-length should definitely be on the horizon.
Cassper Nyovest – TBA
If any African rapper personifies JAY-Z’s evergreen bar, “I’m not a businessman, I’m a business, man,” it’s South African rapper Cassper Nyovest. Since he broke out with his viral hit song, “Doc Shebeleza”, Cassper, who was independent until he signed with Def Jam Africa in late 2018, has continually pushed the bar for commercial excellence. Following a relatively silent 2019 and his last project, the Kwaito-infused, ‘Short & Sweet’, the rapper might just be gearing up for a new body of work, especially since in the past, the longest period between Cassper’s albums maxes out at 18months.
Odunsi (The Engine) – TBA
Odunsi’s game-changing debut album, ‘rare.’, moved the singer from aspiring star to juggernaut. Drawing inspiration from the sleek and bouncy sounds of ‘80s disco, Odunsi managed to make an album that stands out from everything in his catalogue —and contemporary afropop as well — while also strengthening his identity as an artist who writes his own rules. In just over a year since, the dark prince of afro-pop has been making moves to hit the next level, including recording new music for an upcoming project. Hopefully, this effort culminates into sonic exploration that will thrill us very soon – fingers crossed.
Wizkid – ‘Made In Lagos’
Ever since Wizkid publicised ‘Made In Lagos’ as the title of his fourth studio album, the anticipation hasn’t dwindles. Expected to drop in 2019, the singer refrained from delivering any further details, and even starved fans of new solo music for the majority of last year. However, when it rains, it pours, and in a typical superstar flex, Wiz dropped ‘SoundMan, Vol. 1’ last December, a 6-track project, which is meant to serve as a placeholder for ‘MIL’. When Wizkid is ready, you can rest assured we’ll all be ready.
Tems – TBA
Tems only makes riveting music, and this is why the big voiced singer has managed to go from from hot prospect to superstar-in-the-making after 15months and just three singles. Last year, she dropped “Try Me”, her runaway hit, which unravels her projected full form as a strong afropop vocalist. One would only expect Tems to build her increasing fan base from her sparse catalogue so far, and a sure-fire way to seal her ceremonious arrival will be with the release of a debut project that cements her as the leading light of a new crop of artists.
Olamide – TBA
For the first time since debuting in 2011 with ‘Rapsodi’, last year was the first year where we didn’t get a full-length project from Olamide. Although his status as a seminal figure in contemporary pop culture has already been sealed, his prolific streak of multiple hit songs every year, suggests he has more than enough fuel in the tank to keep going as we enter a new decade. Unless there’s a serious glitch in the matrix, we should be receiving an album from the tireless artist in 2020—it’s long overdue.
Darkovibes – TBA
Ghanaian singer/rapper Darkovibes is an artist you should keep your ears tuned to in 2020. As the de-facto face of La Meme Gang, Darko melds slang-infused lyrics with gruff vocals, lending an edginess to his catchy music. It was initially rumoured that Darko would be releasing his solo debut project in 2019, but it seems like he’s pushed back to this year, and his increased activity from the second half of last year suggest as much. He released the romance-themed “Different” in August, following up with the menacing, Runtown-assisted “Mike Tyson”, then closing out with “Come My Way” featuring Mr Eazi. With all of this in mind, we say again, look out for Darko’s debut.
Gigi Atlantis – TBA
It’s easy to be excited about Gigi Atlantis’ future as a singer/songwriter, given what we’ve already got from her. Her 2019 single, “2020,” showcased her ability to make emotive and relatable music, while she effectively broke out with her follow-up single, the Fasina-assisted “Wahala On The Rocks”. In 2020, the tender-voiced singer will look to establish herself as a distinct voice. This means more great music, and there’s already rumours of a debut project in the works. Hopefully it comes out soon, showing off the best of her powers.
Prettyboy D-O – Pretty World
D-O’s machismo-driven persona, chant-ready lyrics and ear for stomping production has made him a distinct figure in contemporary afropop. His debut project, ‘Everything Pretty’, received instant acclaim, showcasing D-O as an artist built for the long run. The rapper is gearing up to release his sophomore album, ‘Pretty World’, a project he revealed on his socials back in July last year. Two singles off ‘Pretty World’ have already been unveiled—“Dey Go Hear Wehh” and “Same Energy”— which continue his ability to spin anarchy into mischievous bangers.
GMK – TBA
GMK prefers to let his music do the talking, and has receded further away from the spotlight in recent years, but his catalogue of credits—mixing and mastering entire albums from Odunsi and Santi—is proof of someone who’s hard at work. But he’s not just working on other artists’ project, word on the streets is that GMK will be dropping more music this year. In an interview with Culture Custodian last year, the multi-hyphenate creative shared plans to release two projects, one as a producer/curator and another as a rapper. With his reputation as a meticulous music maker, either or both GMK projects will definitely be a blessing for this year.
Nasty C – TBA
Nasty C proclaimed himself “King” on his previous album, ‘Strings & Blings’, and he’s been living up to that title ever since. The high-flying rapper recently wrapped up the ‘Ivyson’ tour in support of his sophomore project, which has been certified double platinum by the Recording institute of South Africa. Looking to keep the momentum going, Nasty C is moving on to the next phase of his career, recently promising to drop “new fire music real soon.” The rollout for his new project may have already started, with his single from last year, “God Flow”, and he sounds as imperial and buoyant ever.
SoulBlackSheep – TBA
SoulBlackSheep has a preternatural ability to turn complex emotions into trippy, affecting songs. ‘Ecstasy, Just Chill’, Soul’s debut mixtape, was one of the most pleasant surprises from 2018, where the the Ibadan-based singer channelled a range of heartfelt feelings into a lo-fi universe. The NATIVE Trybe Alum was quiet for most of last year, only releasing the Tron-assisted “Dream”, but we have it on good authority that he’s currently building towards dropping a new project sometime in the coming months. This means more gorgeously sung, hymn-like tearjerkers to catch and expel feelings to.
MOJO – TBA
In just three singles, MOJO has shown flashes of an artist with the potential to become a mainstay, and a huge star even. His Prettyboy D-O-assisted single, “Chop Life Crew”, grew into one of the biggest songs from last year, and it’s still even racking huge co-signs. However, MOJO’s huge hit is only the foundation for an exciting career ahead, as the rapper is already gearing up to release a body of work. With his gruffy voice, deadpan delivery and quotable slangs in Yoruba and Pidgin English, the prospect for MOJO’s debut project is very enticing.
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Characterized by his charismatic approach, lyricism, and nonconformity, Daddy Lumba reshaped the music and...
Death is said to be the end of all things, but for some, it is just a process of immortalization. That is the...
Death is said to be the end of all things, but for some, it is just a process of immortalization. That is the case for legendary Ghanaian artist Charles Kwadwo Fosuh, also known as Daddy Lumba. On the 26th of July, 2025, reports of his demise spread across the world, causing doubts and confusion until his family released an official statement through its lawyer, Fati Ali Yallah, Esq., confirming the devastating news.
For six decades, DL, as he is affectionately referred to, has been a son, a husband, a father, an artist, a teacher, an innovator, and a cultural icon. The accumulation of the lives he lived has earned him the admiration and respect of Ghanaians and music lovers around the world for generations.
Daddy Lumba started exploring his musical talent in the 1980s during his time in secondary school, eventually emerging as the lead of the school choir. Years later, during his stay in Germany, he would be introduced to Highlife music through his friendship and partnership with Nana Acheampong. The duo would form the group “Lumba Brothers” and work on the project ‘Yee Ye, aka Akwantuom,’ which was released in 1989. After the group’s breakup, he launched his solo career with his 1990 solo debut album, ‘Obi Ate Meso Buo.’
Daddy Lumba would go on to have an illustrious career. Credited with over 30 albums and more than 200 songs, his seminal works included “Playboy,” Mesom Jesus,” “Aben Wo Aha,” Poison,” and “Sika,” to name a few. Characterized by his charismatic approach, lyricism, and nonconformity, Daddy Lumba reshaped the music and art scene in Ghana. His control over his native language, Twi, allowed him to pen songs that spoke directly to the soul of the listener. His proverbial lyrics and addictive melodies made his songs easy listens for those who didn’t even fully understand the languages he sang in. He composed songs that served as a guide for people across the different facets of life.
Raised in a gospel background, Daddy Lumba blessed the world with multiple gospel albums that showed his admiration for God and were a testament to his past as a choir leader. In an interesting twist of events, he also had songs that dissected his thoughts on lust, love, and relationships and provided motivation and hope, as well as songs that would get you dancing. During his active years, Daddy Lumba’s songs ran wild across the media, streets, pubs, weddings, and funerals, and echoed from home to home across Accra to Europe.
As a student of Highlife, he ensured the growth and evolution of the sound through his songs and albums over the years. He mastered the craft so well that he would be instrumental in ushering in Borga/Burger Highlife, a sub-genre of Highlife that was steeped in contemporary influences and defined by its funky essence. Borga Highlife was not just in the sound but was also evident in his visual identity. He curated music and art in a style that bewildered people at the time. In today’s world, he would have been described as alté.
Beyond music, his influence on Ghanaian pop culture was immense. It was rooted in nonconformity and the deconstruction of stereotypes. While aspects of his music appealed to Ghana’s conservative outlook, he was also regarded by some as a moral miscreant. As the moral police came for his sensual lyrics and subversive influence on the youth, the love of the music from the wider public was louder.
Where traditional media tried to bury his songs, the masses gave them more life at parties, pubs, and any gatherings where music could be played. Around the early 2000s, Daddy Lumba would come to be accepted as a symbol of modern Ghanaian culture, eventually beating the system by finding a balance that appealed to those who wanted songs that mirrored their sensuality, youthfulness, and freedom without alienating the conservative faction of the country.
He introduced a swagger and flair to Highlife that many were not accustomed to. Winning over not just the older generation but also young people, both at home and abroad. From his many hairstyles–be it a fade, cornrows, or permed hair–he always stood out. Coupled with eye-catching aesthetics, as seen in his photos and music videos, he provided a visual blueprint that rising acts today still draw inspiration from.
Regardless of the genre, theme, or style, Daddy Lumba kept topping charts and winning over listeners. He wore many hats and played diverse roles, and executed all of them brilliantly. It did not matter if he was paying homage to his long-lost love on “Theresa,” bidding farewell on “Makra Mo,” singing praises to God on “Eye N’adom,” craving intimacy on “Pony/Enko Den,” or even preaching diversity on “Bubra,” it all came together as long as it was orchestrated by Daddy Lumba.
His songs not only mirrored his own experiences but also provided a sonic reflection of the lived experiences of the people who listened to his music. He was an artist for the people, and he never shied away from making his fans feel loved and heard.. DL was so enshrouded in Ghanaian popular culture that it is no surprise how many momentous Ghanaian occasions and memories of the last 30 years are intrinsically tied to his songs.
In a country where people often get backlash for showing their political affiliations, Lumba was appreciated more when he took a public stance on supporting a political party. He was so loved that his campaign song “Nana Winner” for the New Patriotic Party (NPP) is played at non-partisan events like raves and parties to a wild reception and excitement. Recognizing his influence, he always platformed talents as best as he could. He nurtured and mentored several artists. Through his album ‘Wo Ho Kyere’, he introduced Ofori Amponsah, his protégé, to the wider public. Ofori would go on to become one of Ghana’s most celebrated artists with hits like “Otolege,” “Odwo,” and “Emmanuella.” Daddy Lumba also mentored artists like Felix Owusu, Borax, and Ateaa Tina, among others.
While his peers were left behind with the advent of music digitalization, Lumba stayed with the times. His music became the stuff of urban legend and was among some of the most-streamed Ghanaian music across platforms in recent times. There were frequent conversations, stories, and breakdowns of his songs on social media, steered by a generation of older listeners, handing down a lived-in perspective for a younger generation. His career is a testament to the fact that good music will always stand the test of time.
When news broke of his death on the 26th of July, 2025, an entire nation fell into a state of mourning. Artists, politicians, and various individuals took to social media to share their condolences with the bereaved family. In a heartfelt message on his Facebook page, his old friend, Nana Acheampong, shared a farewell note to his old friend and brother: “You have indeed done what the creator brought you on earth to do, you will forever inspire generations,” he wrote in a post on Facebook.
Daddy Lumba lived an exciting life and had an enviable career working with artists of different eras. From Pat Thomas to Samini, Kwabena Kwabena, Okyeame Kwame, and Sarkodie, he collaborated with several acts. He also won awards and performed in multiple countries. However, his biggest win remains earning the love of an entire nation. Perhaps the most loved Ghanaian artist across generations, people were born to his music and buried with his music, completing the lifetime cycle with Daddy Lumba’s music booming in the background.
There have been public calls for a state burial for Daddy Lumba, with a vigil already planned for August 2, 2025, at Independence Square, Accra. Lumba’s legacy as an innovator and trailblazer will be etched in Ghanaian music history and the hearts of listeners across the world. He was a strong believer that he was just biding his time on earth, doing his best till it was time to leave.
While he departs the world, his songs and messages will continue to live on throughout time.
Street-pop star, Asake, has released a surprise new single titled “BADMAN GANSTA.” Produced by super...
Street-pop star, Asake, has released a surprise new single titled “BADMAN GANSTA.” Produced by super producer, P.Priime, the single, Asake’s second of the year, arrives with a crisp black and white feature and a stellar guest verse from French rapper and singer Tiakola.
The singer posted the full music video–a monochromatic montage of dazzling shots and scenes of his opulent lifestyle–across his different social media handles on Thursday evening, July 24, with a caption that read, ‘The World Of Money.’
Earlier in June, the ex-YBNL star announced a new album titled ‘Money.’ A few months before that, he released a loosie titled “Military” and then “WHY LOVE,” his first official single under his new imprint Giran Republic. “Military” served as a bookend to the first arc of his impressive career as much as an announcement of a new era, while “WHY LOVE” officially kicked off season two.
Following the release of “WHY LOVE,” Asake has also featured on songs like Olamide’s “99,” J Hus’ “Gold”, and Young Jonn’s “Che Che,” delivering standout verses that favour a melodious, laid-back approach as opposed to the spirited, fast-paced style that earned him success early on. “BADMAN GANSTA” also excels with this approach, as Asake’s melodious musings about his current lifestyle dovetail nicely with Tiakola’s equally sturdy verse over a plush beat that samples Amerie’s 2005 classic “1 Thing.”
With Asake releasing three albums in as many years, it’s not unreasonable to assume ‘Money’ might arrivebefore the end of the year. There’s also the possibility that he might be willing to take his time a little more now, seeing as he his under his imprint now.
Whatever the case may be, ‘Money’ is likely to arrive sooner rather than later, and it will be fascinating to see what other aces Asake has up his sleeves.
Ayra Starr has released her highly anticipated single “Hot Body.” The Mavin popstar has been teasing...
Ayra Starr has released her highly anticipated single “Hot Body.”
The Mavin popstar has been teasing the new single for a few weeks now, posting multiple promotional videos across social media that built up significant excitement for her third official release of the year. The release of “Hot Body” comes on the heels of recent reports that confirmed the Grammy-nominated singer had officially joined Roc Nation’s roster, the American music label, entertainment, and sports services company founded by rapper and business mogul JAY-Z.
Earlier in February, Ayra Starr shared “All The Love,” a sumptuous Afropop ballad produced by labelmate Johnny Drille and Teemode, before releasing the sleek and sensual Wizkid-assisted “Gimmie Dat” about months later. In that time period, the singer picked up two awards at the 2025 MOBO Awards for Best African Music Act and Best International Act before also clinching her first BET award for Best International Act in June.
It was recently announced that the pop singer would be joining Coldplay on the UK leg of their Music Of The Spheres World Tour between August to September, and her impressive year continues with the release of “Hot Body.” Once again, teaming up with close collaborator Ragee and UK production duo The Elements, Ayra Starr manages to deliver a sweetly erotic summer jam that’s sure to elicit plenty lip-biting, hip gyrating, and flirty winks. “Look what a hot body can do,” she sings repeatedly, almost like an enchantress performing a magic trick.
With her current deal with Mavin and Universal Music still running and the recent confirmation of her management deal with Roc Nation, it’s safe to assume that “Hot Body” might garner significant momentum both at home and abroad. Outside of her music, the singer recently wrapped up the shooting of the film adaptation of Tomi Adeyemi’s Children of Blood and Bone which is reportedly set for release in early 2027.