Songs of the Day: New Music from Kranium X Tiwa Savage, Tay Iwar, Juls, Nasty C & more
All the best music from around the continent
With most of the world self-isolating to flatten the COVID-19 curve, music is one of the things that has kept our spirits up and sustained our sense of community. Artists from all around the world have continued to put out new music, and their relatable subject matters help us process past hurts, dream of a better future, whilst also just enjoying the present moment. It’s completely understandable if this week, you haven’t really been keeping up with new music releases, given the current state of affairs around the whole world.
So to help out a bit, we’ve compiled a list of the new songs you should listen to today. Following our mid-week selections that included drops from Prettyboy D-O, Nana Fofie, Juls and Sango, Efya and more, today’s curation includes Nasty C’s latest single, a collaboration between Kranium and Tiwa Savage, new singles from DJ/Producers, Sun El Musician and Juls, and much more. Enjoy.
Kranium x Tiwa Savage – “Gal Policy (Remix)”
Despite the tense banter that followed the flawless NS10v10 victories by Nigerian superstars, Wizkid and Burna Boy, over their dancehall contemporaries, Vybz Kartel and Popcaan, Afropop and Caribbean pop have a strong relationship which has been shown by the steady stream of collaborations between the genres’ respective artists. After featuring Burna on “Hotel” last year, dancehall star, Kranium has just tapped the services of Tiwa Savage for his latest drop, “Gal Policy (Remix)”.
Originally released earlier this year, “Gal Policy” finds Kranium in his trademark lothario bag, as he explains the peaceful dynamic that exists between him and the women he engages with. On the remix, Tiwa Savage plays the love interest who’s a bit slighted by his infidelity, but ultimately knows he remains committed to only her. The remix adds a layer of complexity while also showing off the chemistry between the two artists, over a catchy mid-tempo beat.
Nasty C – “Eazy”
Nasty C SZN is here. The South African rapper has been prepping the release of his third studio album, ‘Zulu Man with some Power’, and the last couple of weeks have seen increased activity that suggests the project will be here real soon. A week after dropping the socially concerned, T.I-assisted cut, “They Don’t”, Nasty C is back with “Eazy”, a new single where reverses back into his trademark braggadocio.
Adopting a smooth sing-song flow on the first verse and a sturdy cadence on the second verse, the rapper flexes his wealth and stunts on his adversaries, referencing his rise from the bottom as justification for his unhinged exuberance. “I see you change the way you feel about me when the lights hit my jewellery/It’s a lot of bad things here, I’m right where I should be”, he boasts over the psychedelic riffs and stomping bass.
Sun El Musician x Msaki – “Ubomi Abumanga”
South African DJ/Producer Sun El Musician broke out with his 2017 smash hit, “Akanmali”, featuring Samthing Soweto, and he’s worked his way into one of the premier purveyors of African house music with subsequent releases. For his second single of the year, “Ubomi Abumanga”, the producer puts together a dreamy banger that will either calm you down or get your body swaying, depending on your disposition. Gliding over Sun El’s thumping percussion, layered piano riffs and horn blasts, South African singer, Msaki adds an ethereal and captivating touch with her melody swells and playful vocal runs.
Oumou Sangaré – “Djoukourou (Acoustic)”
Later this month, Malian singer, Oumou Sangare will release ‘Acoustic’, an unplugged album with acoustic reworks of her critically acclaimed 2017 LP, ‘Mogoya’. ‘Acoustic’ will strip down the hi-definition tools which accompanied the traditional sounds of ‘Mogoya’, and it will mostly focus on Oumou’s voice with sparse instrumental embellishments. Ahead of the album’s release, the singer has just shared lead single, “Djoukourou (Acoustic)”, an energetic song which places Oumou’s energetic and bright voice alongside spritely plucked, folk strings.
Juls x Randy Valentine – “Wata”
While he’s established himself as the go-to guy of the neo-highlife subgenre, a lot of Juls’ music is a constant exercise in finding new ways to deconstruct and reinvent his chosen sound. “Wata”, his latest release continues to chart his experimental yet identifiable path, as he combines growling bass guitar riffs, afro-folk percussion and horn interjections to create the skeletal groove which pushes the song forward. Vocals on “Wata” are contributed by UK-based reggae singer, Randy Valentine, who delivers a message of positivity through his uplifting lyrics and his vibrant vocal performance.
Young T & Bugsey x DaBaby – “Don’t Rush (Remix)”
At the beginning of our social distancing woes, Young T & Bugsey’s “Don’t Rush” became a worldwide phenomenon following one of the most delightful TikTok challenges in recent memory. Looking to extend the song’s impact, the UK duo have just dropped the second remix to the smash hit. Te first one featured Urbano artist, Rauw Alejandro, and this time around, they’ve enlisted DaBaby, who’s song is currently number 1 on the charts. With the same beat and unchanged verses from Young T and Bugsey, DaBaby’s opening verse, where he employs his trademark supersonic flow, is the only new thing on the remix, however, it won’t be surprising to see the remix further the song’s success on the American charts considering.
Tay Iwar x Zilo – “Play Nice – Stuck Inside”
Earlier this week, Tay Iwar celebrated his birthday with the release of a new loosie single, “Play Nice – Stuck Inside”, a song that mines his ability to sing of the emotional complexities of falling in love. Joined by British R&B singer Zilo, the pair play a dysfunctional couple who find it difficult to be totally vulnerable with each other due to their egos and other personal issues. The song is divided into two halves, allowing us an unfiltered look into both sides of the relationship, with Tay and Zilo matching their evocative writing with affecting vocal deliveries over the exotic mix of Spanish guitars and reverb-stained 808 bass.
[mc4wp_form id=”26074″]
Dennis is not an interesting person. Tweet Your Favourite Playboi Carti Songs at him @dennisadepeter
ICYMI: CHECK OUT NEW RELEASES FROM PRETTYBOY D-O, NANA FOFIE, NASTY C, EFYA AND MORE
What OdumoduBlvck’s Greatest School Tour Could Mean For Touring In Nigeria
The rapper’s decision to embark on a local university tour of this nature could go on to become a...
There’s no denying that OdumoduBlvck’s 2023 mixtape ‘Eziokwu’ established his musical genius. While the half dozen projects that preceded ‘Eziokwu’ almost served as target practice, largely showcasing the early iterations of Okporoko music – his unique melodious rap fusion – it was his major label debut that truly grounded the rapper in Nigeria’s rich Hip-Hop lineage. The album’s far-reaching success culminated in a historic joint tour with fellow 2023 breakout star Shallipopi, which saw the two share the stage across 9 cities in the United States. Similarly, riding the high of his latest mixtape, ‘The Machine Is Coming,’ the Anti-World Gangstar head huncho recently announced a new tour. This time, however, instead of taking his new collection of infectious bangers to stages abroad, the rapper decided to visit different universities across the country for what he calls the ‘Greatest School Tour Ever.’
Touring in Nigeria is a subject that has become somewhat controversial over the last few years, splitting opinions amongst many fans, industry experts, and artists themselves. Back in the mid-2000s to early 2010s, local touring was very much the norm. Platforms like Star Music’s ‘The Trek,’ as well as a few prominent local promoters, enabled some of the biggest names like 2face, Olamide, and M.I to hold annual nationwide tours. These tours included stops in cities like Warri, Makurdi, Owerri and many other places that artists are less likely to visit today. University tours were also popular as they presented an avenue for these artists to connect with their younger audience, who mostly served as the bedrock of their fan base.
The rise of digital streaming platforms, which has partly informed the industry’s rapid evolution over the past decade, coupled with other economic and infrastructural issues, has, however, forced a sharp decline in local touring, making it an almost altruistic endeavour in today’s Nigeria. Afropop gaining global exposure meant that the international market immediately became more viable and lucrative to our biggest stars, and this reshaped their priorities. The extensive, multi-city shows became reserved for diaspora fans, while the local audience, in most cases, are treated to a solitary annual show.
OdumoduBlvck looks to buck this trend with the ‘Greatest School Tour Ever,’ prioritizing his primary audience before tending to those abroad. In truth, the Lagos-born rapper is not the only one who has embarked on this type of tour in recent times. A couple of years ago, UK-based rapper Kida Kudz and Ckay also went on similar campus tours, with the latter making stops at 10 different universities across the country. Llona, one of the breakout stars from last year, is also currently on a nationwide tour coming off the success of his impressive debut album ‘Homeless.’ The ‘Greatest School Tour Ever,’ is however, peculiar and momentous because of its timing and OdumoduBlvck’s standing as one of the biggest names around.
At the recent 17th Headies Awards, the rapper became the latest recipient of the Next Rated award, a highly coveted plaque that’s historically reserved for standout acts whose music defines the zeitgeist at a given period. He received the award just two days after he gave an electrifying performance at Afe Babalola University. His latest mixtape, ‘The Machine Is Coming,’ a precursor to his highly anticipated forthcoming debut, currently sits at the No. 2 spot on the Turntable Top 50 Album charts. It is unheard of in recent times: that the Headies Next Rated act, who has one of the top projects in the country, is on a local university tour. The Abuja-native has, however, shown on numerous occasions that he has never really been one to abide by existing standards. The famous opening lines from his breakout single “Declan Rice” (I can do without their Policy I Know), did not only serve as a message to gatekeepers and naysayers but also as a manifesto that declared his mode of operation going forward.
At the time of this writing, the rapper has only made two stops on his ongoing tour, but his decision to embark on a local tour of this nature already looks to be paying dividends. The first two shows have produced viral clips that capture his star power, the hysteria of his headline shows and his rapidly growing influence, especially amongst younger listeners. The viral clips have already created an increased demand for shows, with many young fans harassing the rapper to add more dates to the tour. With the release of ‘The Machine Is Coming’ and his recent crowning moment at the Headies, it’s safe to assume there’s more attention on him now than ever. While it is, of course, still early days, the rapper’s decision to embark on a local university tour, especially given that he’s currently experiencing a career high, could go on to become a significant moment, one that potentially inspires a shift in the touring landscape in Nigeria.
Keep reading...
NATIVE PREMIERE: Tanika Is Stepping Out On Her Terms With The Kida Kudz-Assisted “FAST FWD”
From working her way out of London’s Myatt’s Field, Tanika is now setting her sights on the bright lights...
Across a career that’s in its second decade, Tanika has proven to be a force in her own right, holding her own on collaborations with Black British stars like Stormzy and Wretch 32, as well as popular record producer Naughty Boy–working with the Grammy-nominated beatmaker on his acclaimed ‘Hotel Cabana’ album.
Following a stint as an actor, she returned to the studio in 2021, releasing a new extended play, ‘333,’ in 2023. The project carried all the hallmarks of Tanika at her tantalising best: lilting cadences, well-paced narratives, a songwriting that reaches for the heart of the matter.
On her latest song, “Fast Fwd,” she’s growing into her own and stepping into a new era. In many ways, “Fast Fwd,” a hypnotic, sultry anthem, is landing just in time for summer revelry. Produced by her longtime collaborator, Naughty Boy, her silky vocals land effortlessly on the mid-tempo instrumental and pulsates with her desire for her love interest.
Joined on the song by her fiancé, Kida Kudz, they make an interesting duo and replicate the synergy they had on “Nobody,” off Kudz’s 2021 ‘Top Memba.’ Distinctively marked by use of neon lights, the video for the song captures the effervescence of romance that Tanika hums about throughout the song.
From working her way out of London’s Myatt’s Field to becoming a star with millions of streams, Tanika is now setting her sights on the bright lights of superstardom. Ahead of the official release of the single, we had a brief chat with Tanika about her career, the influences for “Fast Fwd,” and working with KIda Kudz on it.
Her answers, which follow below, have been lightly edited for clarity.
How would you describe where you are in your career right now?
I’m just enjoying the journey.
What does the release of “Fast Fwd” signify for you?
It signifies love.
Why is Kida Kudz a fit for the song? (
To be honest, we didn’t plan to do another song together. I have worked on two records with him before (“Nobody” and “Tasty Time” ) but we never thought to shoot a video for it.. “Fast Fwd” felt like a real testimony of our present moment in the relationship.
You’ve worked extensively with Naughty Boy and he’s helped with “Fast Fwd,” what’s your relationship like and why does it work?
Naughty Boy knows me very well. We’ve known one another for over 10 years, so he knows what fits me musically. We gel. I think him knowing me and being a fan of Kida’s music made it all work. Naughty Boy does his listening before he makes a beat for you. A lot of producers don’t really understand the importance of knowing the artist musically but he does.
What were you aiming for with the video?
To be honest, I’m aiming for nothing. I’m just enjoying the journey. It’s been a very long road and I know I still have a long way to go.
Catch an exclusive view of “Fast Fwd” below.
Keep reading...
Vlisco’s “The Garden Of Sisterhood” Campaign Comes To Life in New “MAYANGA” Video
A celebration of creativity and cultural
Dutch textile brand Vlisco recently unveiled its latest campaign ‘The Garden Of Sisterhood,’ as part of its women’s month celebration. The campaign, which looks to extend Vlisco’s rich legacy in African fashion and its ongoing celebration of creativity and cultural storytelling, takes inspiration from Congolese musical icon Fally Ipupa’s latest single, “Mayanga.” The song’s accompanying music video was shot in the Ivory Coast, and seamlessly balances Ipupa’s signature soulful Rumba music with intricate floral motifs and soft, elegant colour palettes that celebrate the strength and individuality that blossoms through community.
In addition to Fally Ipupa, Vlisco also tapped up Ivorian fashion designer Loza Maléombho and Nigerian director Daniel Obasi to contribute to ‘The Garden Of Sisterhood’ campaign. Maléombho’s unique designs and Obasi’s striking storytelling helped contribute to actualising Vlisco’s distinct aesthetic and vision of merging heritage, creativity and fashion.
In a statement discussing the collaboration with Vlisco, the Congolese superstar described it as a beautiful experience. “They understood my vision of working with talented artists and honouring the beautiful women who wear Vlisco fabrics. By creating exclusive designs for me and the remarkable women in the cast, Vlisco really brought our artistic vision to life, harmoniously fusing music and fashion,” he said.
Similarly, Marlou van Engelen, the creative director of Vlisco, expressed that it was an honour working with Fally Ipupa. “His song ‘MAYANGA’ perfectly reflects our admiration for the women who shaped us, inspire us, and mean so much to us. For us, it’s not just about fashion; it’s about the stories told through our beautiful prints. And I believe the best stories are always told together,” she said in a statement.
View this post on Instagram
Keep reading...
