NATIVE Selects: New Music From Adekunle Gold, Tiwa Savage, Khaid & More
fresh picks of the week
fresh picks of the week
It’s that time again. Every day, new music shows up, sweeping fans and music lovers off their feet while artists gauge reactions to know the effect of their creativity. At the NATIVE, we are committed to keeping our ears on the pulse of the music scene and bringing the best sounds to your doorstep.
Last week, we brought you songs from Boj, Zlatan, Mikun, Seun Kuti, Bella Shmurda and more. Today, we have songs that move from Afropop to Amapiano to R&B, with our select artists showcasing their unending talent and passion for creativity. Lock in!
With his signing to Def Jam Recordings announced some hours ago, Adekunle Gold is stepping into a new light. The Nigerian artist has been one of the most forward-facing creatives in contemporary Afropop, interpreting his soulful records through a refreshingly creative direction which hasn’t lost the intimacy of his earliest days. A signature bop, “Party No Dey Stop” marks this new era of AG. He joins forces with the street poet Zinoleesky, resulting in a stripped but groovy number, merging lived-in perspectives with his desire to have a good time.
Emmanuel
Khaid follows up January’s “Jolie” with his latest single “Carry Me Go” featuring Mavin Records’ singer Boy Spyce. “Carry Me Go” continues the theme of romance (that began with “Jolie”) as Khaid and Boy Spyce shed their defences and express their devotion to their lovers. Over SIGNALS’s delightful Highlife guitar riffs, both artists pair their vocals to create catchy music that calls for multiple listens.
Since making her debut before the 2010s, never has there been an Afropop phase without the inimitable vocals of Tiwa Savage. Her collaborative zeal has been a crucial aspect of her artistry, ensuring she keeps in touch with the evolving sounds of Africa and the diaspora. “Stamina” showcases that brilliance again; with Young Jonn and Ayra Starr making great work of their input, it’s a sensitive record bubbling with originality. On production duties, Magicsticks delivers a mellow Amapiano-tinged beat, allowing the dynamic vocals to serenade about the willingness to love. A fine return for the Queen of Afrobeats.
Emmanuel
Mavin Records’ act Crayon continues his impressive run of form after last year’s “Ijo (Laba Laba)” and a fine showing on the label’s compilation album ‘Chapter X’ with his first single of the year “The One (Chop Life).” On the track, Crayon revels in his prowess as a hitmaker and party starter. “The One (Chop Life)” features Mozambican music trio Yaba Buluku Boyz—with production credit to DJ Tarico who is a member of the group—who bring their charisma to the Amapiano-infused song and fire up Crayon’s claim to the top spot.
Uzoma
After releasing his anticipated sophomore ‘The Brother’s Keeper’ last year, Chike demonstrated his prowess as a writer of intriguing narratives. “Spell” was one of those early favourites among listeners; layering his dulcet vocals over the stripped production of DeeYasso, the theme of being mesmerised in love was beautifully captured. Joining the remix is Oxlade, another vocalist whose subject matter revolves around the complexities of love. Together they emerge with an updated sound, complementing each other with dynamic vocals and ethereal melodies.
Emmanuel
On the NXRTH- and Cracker Mallo-produced “One Of A Kind,” Jaido P and Fireboy DML combine forces for an uplifting ode to overcoming trials. Over a mid-tempo Afropop beat, Both artists, who began their careers in music as students of Obafemi Awolowo University (OAU), pull the listener down memory lane, recalling the obstacles they have faced. They are also in a celebratory mood about the rewards of their hard work and encourage the listener to keep their eyes on the prize.
Uzoma
Featured Image Credits/The NATIVE