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.

Earlier in the week, we brought you songs from Victony, Chinko Ekun, Themba 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!

Odumodublvck – “Declan Rice”

ODUMODUBLVCK is having a moment. After signing to NATIVE Records and Def Jam Recordings last year, the Nigerian artist has been cultivating a loyal following and generating buzz across the internet. His debut single of 2023 “Declan Rice” finally arrives off the back of the impressive “Picanto” and co-signs from important figures in the music industry. The track is titled after English international Declan Rice, with Odumodublvck likening himself to: a tough player “tackling the industry.” On the catchy production, ODUMODUBLVCK spices the track with his signature punchlines and flows, alerting everyone to take note and watch his ascendency.

Uzoma

Ajebo Hustlers – “You Go Know”

Since late last year, Port Harcourt griots Ajebo Hustlers have maintained a consistent streak. After following up their acclaimed ‘Kpos Lifestyle Vol. 1’ tape with ‘Bad Boy Etiquette’, they’ve been on features with Ajebutter22 and now, have debuted in 2023 with “You Go Know”. Delivered in their signature wit and wisdom, it’s a reflective number which casts life lessons in a new light. “In case you never know, na today you go know,” sings Piego on the hook. 

Emmanuel 

Noon Dave – “Hilary”

Chocolate City artist Noon Dave has been slowly making his entry into the nucleus of Nigerian Pop. With the label undergoing a renaissance with Blaqbonez and Young Jonn, he’s had to wait his while. On “Hilary,” the artist justifies the buzz, layering balmy vocals over a stirring string-based production. The subject of unrequited love inspires a heartfelt performance, coasting alongside emotional backing vocals which polishes off the song’s brilliance. 

Emmanuel 

Magixx – “Colors (My Baby)”

Magixx is here with the two-song pack “Colors (My Baby)/Loyal,” produced by Andre Vibez. On the record “Colors,” he makes romantic claims and confessions to his love interest as he lets her in on the lengths to which he is willing to go for her. On “Loyal,” he brings in an element of dancehall as he merges that with Afropop elements, singing about the lack of loyalty from his love interest. These two records stand as the artists’ first official singles of the year. 

Wonu

Nonso Amadi & Zinoleesky – “Lock Up”

Nonso Amadi’s “Lock Up” comes after he had announced his forthcoming debut album ‘When It Blooms.’ The new track, which joins previously released singles (“Different” and “Ease Up”) to make up the album features Marlian Music act Zinoleesky, in a union that seemed musically impossible. On “Lock Up,” Nonso Amadi and Zinoleesky find a common ground to express their affection for their lovers. Over the mid-tempo instrumental that has elements of Amapiano, both artists infuse love with topics of sex and politics, creating a curious yet formidable connection.

Uzoma

WANI & Odunsi The Engine – “No Doubt”

Anyone familiar with the alternative music scene knows that WANI and Odunsi (The Engine) are a match made in collaboration heaven. From astounding renditions and catchy hooks on 2019’s “Better Days” to a standout performance for NATIVE Sound System’s promotional single, “Wedding Ring” off the debut album, ‘NATIVEWORLD.’ The serial hitmakers are back for another love-themed melodious track, “No Doubt.” Leading in with smooth piano chords on the slow-tempo track, WANI’s harmonious adlibs, joined by Odunsi’s mellow vocals ponder the regrets from a past relationship. 

Nwanneamaka 

IYANYA  – “PLANS”

Iyanya is full of questions on his latest single “Plans.” Weary of his lover’s motives, he demands to know if she’s really into him or if she’s seeking an exit out of their relationship. “Is it love you are looking for/But e be like say love is not enough/Ahh you should you let me know/If e don dey choke,” he sings. Co-produced by Xtofa and Reward Beatz, “Plans” is an Afropop tune infused with Amapiano log drums; it is a happy-feeling beat that contrasts with Iyanya’s inner turmoil.

Uzoma

K.O FT. YOUNG STUNNA, DIAMOND PLATNUMZ & OXLADE – “SETE (REMIX)”

One of the biggest hits to emerge from South Africa in recent times, “Sete” has colourful Afropop influences that sound at home just about anywhere. For its remix, the veteran rapper enlists a pan-African cast. With the features impressing their distinct styles on the record, its appeal opens up in a spirited way, establishing a party vibe that’s bound to get listeners going.

Emmanuel 

Jay Bahd – “Yaa Baby”

Ghanaian act Jay Bahd’s Drill-inspired “Yaa Baby” is a love song of the Bonnie and Clyde sort. The rapper from the famed Asakaa Boys wraps his guttural vocals around Joeyonmars’ production as he raps about his woman and how she holds him down in any situation. In a mixture of Twi and English, Jay Bahd presents an anthem for the hustlers and lovers chasing the bag and protecting those close to their hearts.

Uzoma

Coblaze – “Good Girl”

Newcomer singer and songwriter Coblaze has arrived with his debut EP titled ‘Orbit.’ The body of work sees 6 tracks and sees a feature with DJ and producer, Spinall. On the record “Good Girl,” Coblaze is extremely vocal about the sort of woman he wishes to be with. On the self production, he showcases his very distinct vocal range and stellar pen game.

Wonu

Featured Image Credits/The NATIVE