‘Blue Balls’: 18 young people share their experience with the greatest myth about male erections

Posted on by The Native

You probably don’t remember the first time someone told you about ‘Blue balls’. But if you’re a girl like me who didn’t catch the concept talking dirty in high school, you probably heard it repurposed as a twisted pre-sex bargaining chip in adulthood. Usually, the aroused male partner’s pitch is that having sex will ease the resulting pain from ‘Blue Balls’.

Scientifically speaking, ‘Blue Balls’ is a male condition merely caused by prolonged erections with no climax, sometimes resulting to a tinge of pain. Moreso, it is general knowledge within the male species that its severity is gravely exaggerated to sway women into sex. These conversations need to be had to understand the complicated nature of consent. But a central question to answer here is: what is the word on the street on blue balls?

So we set out to ask to some young women and men to tell us what they know about blue balls from experience.

AO – 26, Male

I know what blue balls is, it gets mad uncomfortable. I didn’t even know people used blue balls to get laid. I’ve never even mentioned it to a girl before.

IB – 21, Female

Blue balls is the discomfort or mild pain that men feel in their ball area or pelvic area due to accumulated semen that was not ejaculated when they were doing sexual activities. That’s what I know about that. I read somewhere (from a doctor) recently that it’s not even as painful as they make it seem. That it’s more of a discomfort than pain; so guys actually pretend that they are in pain so that they can guilt-trip the girls. When I was like 15 or so, I naively agreed to make out with this guy because I felt bad he was in “Pain” so I made him cum. Never again.

FK – 24, Female

Okay, so no one has ever used the line on me per say because they know I’m smarter than that. But I’ve heard guys talk about it. What I heard is that when you get hard for too long without having sex, guys tummy starts to ache so bad, it feels like they will die. So they just need to put it somewhere. When I heard that, I was like, masturbate nigga or go fuck yourself cause that shit is rubbish. Plus I googled it and of course, it’s not such a serious condition to pressure anyone that doesn’t want to have sex into doing it.

AA – 23, Female

My friend mentioned it to me once, in comparison to period pains. I think I got so vexed, we had a fight.

ST – 25, Female

I can’t really explain but I heard it’s painful and the best way to relieve the pain is to have an orgasm. Yeah, someone has used it to convince me to have sex. I’d never had sex at the time, but honestly, if I didn’t actually want to have sex, it wouldn’t have worked.

DM – 21, Female

Yes, I’ve heard about blue balls. It occurs when a guy is really horny but can’t have sex. Someone has tried to use it as an excuse to have sex with me before, but it didn’t work.

TA – 21, Male

Blue Balls are real, it’s not just a lie as people may think. It’s painful.

CH – 24, Female

Yes, I’ve heard of Blue Balls. Walked out, so the guy should be dead now.

DE – 17 Male

‘Blue Balls’ sounds like a scam, feels like one. It’s actually just a scam.

DP – 21, Female

I heard blue balls hurt. Yeah someone did use that line and it worked but it wasn’t exactly manipulative. He merely used the term ‘Blue balls’ to say he was horny. Not like he actually meant he was dying and needed me to fuck him to save his life.

MJ – 23, Female

Never heard of blue balls. Is that a football club?

MM – 23, Female

Well, I interpreted it as sexual frustration, but I gather some men project it as a dire health condition. This one guy I was platonic friends with wouldn’t stop whimpering and begging for sex because according to him, he felt sick because he hadn’t had sex in a minute. I didn’t help him though. I was more pissed than empathetic.

MO – 21, Female

I’m not very knowledgeable in this area. But yeah, some guy tried to use it as an excuse to have sex with me. It didn’t work and only made things weird between us. Things died off shortly after.

MI – 19, Female

No, I haven’t heard of Blue balls, what should I do if it happens?

KE – 21, Male

I’ve heard of blue balls. The pain you feel when are hard but you don’t climax —But this shit rarely ever happens. I’ve never used it as an excuse to have sex with anybody. We (Men) don’t even need sex to ejaculate though and I think every girl knows this. If she truly doesn’t want to have sex, she’ll tell him to wank or something. Sex wasn’t made to prevent people from feeling pain.

AE – 21, Female

It’s painful, frustrating and embarrassing on the girls part when a guy tries to convince you to have sex with him because “he has blue balls”. His claim did not convince me to eventually have sex with him, he just made me feel bad.

SN – 21, Female

I heard blue balls are sensitive and they hurt-ish. As to what causes men, I read it’s sexual build up that never ends. When my boyfriend had blue balls (thanks or no thanks to me, teehee!), he didn’t mention sex at all. I asked him what he’d do about it, and since he wasn’t about to jerk off, we just sat and watched a movie while he felt what he felt. But yeah, there was no convincing for sex or even mentioning sex or blaming me for it.

DA – 24, Male 

Hmm. yeah, I know what it (Blue Balls) is. No, I haven’t used it to get someone to have sex with me. *chuckles* I don’t even know if that would be a convincing lie.

 

 

Featured Image Credit: FoxADHD.com

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Fisayo is a journalist in search of words. Tweet at her @fisvyo

ICYMI: #SluttyGirlFears and the Real Reason Women Can’t Embrace Sexuality Like Men

Watch Santi’s eerie video for “Freaky”

Posted on by The Native

After getting negative feedback from the old-Nollywood inspired trailer for “Freaky”, Santi’s ability to read the room ensures he isn’t accused of reducing the film industry into a mere meme for aesthetic. He just premiered the official video on THE FADER, directed by himself, Jullz Bek and San, without cuts from Nollywood films. Though he explained that the video still pays homage to vintage Nollywood horror flicks, it is more a reflection of Santi’s running retro-themed visuals since he released “Icy” back in April.

The parallel between old Nollywood and the video for “Freaky” is however made clear in the eerie aesthetic of the video, casting Santi as an exorcist. Through the 4-minute play time of the video, creepy images and hellish graphic edits are flashed, welcoming viewers into Santi’s “Freaky” universe. Featured artists, Nonso Amadi and Bad Bridge, make appearances in the video to perform their verses and the hook.

You can watch the video for “Freaky” below.

Featured Image Credits: YouTube/Monster Boy
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You are meeting Debola at a strange time in his life. He wandered into a dream and lost his way back. Tweet at him @debola_abimbolu

ICYMI: See the video for Santi’s video for “Icy”, featuring Izzy, Maison2500 and Odunsi

Dr. Sid’s “Deep Down” featuring Seyi Shay; an open conversation between two consenting adults

Posted on by The Native

A general contentious issue around asking permission before making sexual advances is that it ‘ruins the mood’, which is pretty scary because it perpetuates rape culture regardless of intent or certainty that the other party is readily given to have sex. Recently however, sex-positivity —one of the core foundations of consent, has become a running theme in mainstream music. On Tiwa Savage and Ladipoe’s exchange on their collaborative single “Are You Down” for instance, both provide an example by illustrating what respectful sexual advances in a social setting should look like. Dr. Sid’s latest single “Deep Down” provides a more explicit example. The duet, produced by Altus, sees Dr. Sid and Seyi Shay guarantee pleasure with braggy and flirty avowals, while still respecting the other party’s boundaries.

Listen to Dr. Sid and Seyi Shay’s “Deep Down” here:

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“Tomiwa is figuring it out…” Tweet at her @fauxbella

Watch Seyi Shay and Kizz Daniel in “Surrender” music video

The video for Olakira’s “Hey Lover” paints a two-sided picture of romance

Posted on by The Native

Released in June, Olakira’s “Hey Lover” drew from Afropop’s more sentimental niceties, for a romance-themed single, tailored for dancefloors. With Simba Tagz’s mid-tempo instrumentals setting a lightweight pace for Olakira’s emotional rendition, it’s his uplifting lyrics that rescue the song from being moody. Unlimited LA directs the recently released video for “Hey Lover” and it places Olakira in a strained relationship, as he tries to manage two love interests. Although most of the video shows him with a lover who’s upset that he gets calls from other girls, the two pathways at the end of the video to see others.

See the video for Olakira’s “Hey Lover” below.

Featured Image Credits: YouTube/U&I Music
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You are meeting Debola at a strange time in his life. He wandered into a dream and lost his way back. Tweet at him @debola_abimbolu

ICYMI: Listen to “Hey Lover” and “Flirty Singal” by Olakira here

Watch DMW’s “AZA” Music Video featuring Davido, Duncan Mighty and Peruzzi

Posted on by The Native

DMW’s “AZA” music video diverts attention away from the song’s lyrics, yet, it definitely offers a reminder of what it means to be Nigerian; what we’ve had in many music videos is content in foreign ideas and attitudes. A music video isn’t always a concept video; it is simply accompanying visuals to adequately and richly promote the music. The “AZA” music video, shot in Port-Harcourt and directed by Clarence Peters, enhances shared consciousness and connectedness.

Like the song’s audio, Duncan Mighty makes an exhilarating visual introduction in the video, partly submerged in a river with a bold lion mask. The rest of the video shows Davido and Peruzzi on the streets of PH with many many, people and (actual) babies. One of the most symbolic scene is set as a village square with community people, elders, masquerades and a lot of dancing that depicts African-Nigerian mannerism and the good culture of the Igbo people. It’s a strategy for DMW to keep winning the hearts of people internationally —and of course worldwide. There’s a message here if you try to find one. Meanwhile, it’s clear they all had a great time shooting it. Check it out below.

Featured Image Credit: Youtube/DMW HQ
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Fisayo is a journalist in search of words. Tweet at her @fisvyo

Listen to “AZA” featuring Davido, Duncan Mighty and Peruzzi

AFRIMA 2018: Shekinah, Maitre Gims, Simi, Nasty C Dominate Nominations

Posted on by The Native

The nominations for the 6th edition of All African Music Awards have been announced. African Union commission released the list on August 28th, spanning over 34 countries. The leading artists with 7 excellent nominations each include Shekhinah from South Africa and Maitre Gims from Democratic Republic of Congo.

They are followed by Diamond Plantinumz (Tanzania) and Betty G (Ethiopia) with 6 outstanding nominations.Nigeria’s Simi and South Africa’s Nasty C are next with 5 good nominations from the list. At last year’s AFRIMA, Wizkid emerged most awarded.

Tiwasavage, Fatoumata Diawara, Fally Ipupa, Mr Eazi, Kizz Daniel, Patoranking, Mr. Real, Falz, 2Baba, Not3es, Maleek Berry, Yxng Bane…all picked up nominations. Find a selection of other nominees below.

ALBUM OF THE YEAR
Name of Artiste Country Album title
1 Betty G Ethiopia Wegegta
2 Bombino Niger Deran
3 Diamond Platnumz Tanzania A Boy from Tandale
4 Lartiste Morocco Grandestino
5 Maitre Gims DRC Ceinture Noire
6 Mr. Leo Cameroon Love Original
7 Shekhinah South Africa Rose Gold
8 Simi Nigeria Simisola

ARTISTE OF THE YEAR
Name of Artiste Country Track title
1 Betty G Ethiopia Wegegta
2 Daphne Cameroon My Lover
3 Davido Nigeria FIA
4 Diamond Platnumz Tanzania Sikomi
5 Kwesta South Africa Spirit Ft. Wale
6 Maître Gims DRC La Meme Ft. Vianney
7 Nasty C South Africa Jungle
8 Saad Lamjarred Morocco Casablanca
9 Starboy Nigeria Soco Ft. Terry, Spotless, Ceeza Milli & Wizkid
10 Tiwa Savage Nigeria Ma Lo Ft. Wizkid & Spellz

BEST AFRICAN VIDEO
Name of Video Director Track Title (Artiste) Country
1 Armsdeal Let It Flow (Shane Eagle) South Africa
2 Cedrick Kayla Affairage (Toofan) Togo
3 Clarence Peters Melanin (Sauti Sol) Nigeria
4 Felicite Ben Rejeb Price Django (Dadju Ft. Franglish) Congo
5 Jacob Bain Nterini (Fatoumata Diawara) Mali
6 Lebogang Rasethaba Money Calling (Nadia Nakai & Franck Casino) South Africa
7 Meji Alabi Ma Lo (Tiwa Savage Ft. Wizkid) Nigeria
8 OneMovie Nosso Momento (Bruna Tatiana) Angola
9 Sasha Vybz Freedom (Bebe Cool) Uganda
10 Sesan Gringo (Shatta Wale) Nigeria
11 Walid Ayoub Ya Mraya (Hamza El Fadly) Morocco

BEST AFRICAN ACT IN DIASPORA
Name of Artiste Country Track title
1 Afrotronix Chad OyO Ft. Seydina
2 Aya Nakamura Mali Oumou Sangare
3 Chick Nick Cameroon Contrôler
4 Dadju DRC Bob Marley
5 Franglish DRC Elle
6 Hazel Mak Malawi Jaiva Ft. Roberto & Tay Grin
7 L’Algérino Algeria Va Bene
8 Oudy 1er Guinea Tourner Kabato

BEST AFRICAN COLLABORATION
Names of Artistes Country Track Title
1 Balti Ft. Hamouda Tunisia Ya Lili
2 DJ Moh Green Ft. Magasco Algeria/Cameroon Por Favor
3 DJ Spinall & Wizkid Nigeria Nowo
4 Fally Ipupa Ft. KeBlack & Naza DRC Mannequin
5 GuiltyBeatz, Mr. Eazi, Patapaa & Pappy Kojo Ghana/Nigeria Akwaaba
6 Maître Gims Ft. Vianney DRC/France La Meme
7 Major Lazer & DJ Maphorisa Ft. Nasty C, Ice Prince, Patoranking & Jidenna US/South Africa/Nigeria Particula
8 Nasty C & Runtown South Africa/Nigeria Said
9 Revolution & Magic System Cote d’Ivoire Kelly
10 Sauti Sol Ft. Patoranking Kenya/Nigeria Melanin
11 Tiwa Savage Ft Wizkid & Spellz Nigeria Ma Lo

BEST ARTISTE, DUO OR GROUP IN AFRICAN CONTEMPORARY
Name of Artiste Country Track Title
1 Charlotte Dipanda Cameroon Sista Ft. Yemi Alade
2 Davido Nigeria FIA
3 Diamond Platnumz Tanzania Sikomi
4 EXQ Zimbabwe Tsvigiri
5 Ferre Gola DRC Premiere Classe
6 Josey Cote d’Ivoire Jour J-O
7 Kidi Ghana Odo Remix Ft. Mayorkun & Davido
8 Kizz Daniel Nigeria No Do
9 L’Algérino Algeria Va Bene
10 Mafikizolo South Africa Love Potion
11 Nandy Tanzania kivuruge
12 Tekno Nigeria Jogodo
13 Wande Coal Nigeria So Mi So

BEST ARTISTE, DUO OR GROUP IN AFRICAN DANCE OR CHOREOGRAPHY
Name of Artiste Country Track Title
1 Black M Guinea Bodyguard
2 Cassper Nyovest South Africa Ksazobalit
3 Fally Ipupa DRC Ecole
4 Ferre Gola DRC Premiere classe
5 GuiltyBeatz, Mr. Eazi, Patapaa & Pappy Kojo Ghana Akwaaba
6 Mr P. Nigeria Ebeano
7 Olamide Nigeria Science Student
8 Rouge (Rudi Smit) South Africa Arumtumtum
9 Rythmz Cameroon Fedeti
10 Shekhinah South Africa Please Mr.
11 Toofan Togo Affairage

BEST AFRICAN DJ
Name of DJ Country Track Title
1 Afrotronix Chad OyO
2 DJ Arafat Cote d’Ivoire Dosabado
3 DJ Enimoney Nigeria Diet Ft. Tiwa Savage, Reminince & Slimcase
4 DJ Maphorisa South Africa Midnight Ft. DJ Tira, Busiswa, Moonchild Sanelly
5 DJ Moh Green Algeria Por Favor Ft. Magasco
6 DJ Oudy 1er Guinea Tourner Kabato
7 DJ Spinall Nigeria Nowo Ft. Wizkid
8 DJ Zoumanto Cameroon Do Like I Do Ft. Ko-C & Mimie
9 Van Morocco Live Your Dream Ft. Dub Afrika

BEST ARTISTE, DUO OR GROUP IN AFRICAN ELECTRO
Name of Artiste Country Track title
1 Afrotronix Chad OyO
2 Aminux Morocco Ghanjibo
3 Babes Wodumo South Africa Jiva Hezkombhede Ft. Duma Ntando & Mampintsha
4 Distruction Boyz South Africa Omunye Ft. Benny Maverick & Dladla Mshunqisi
5 DJ Enimoney, Tiwa Savage, Reminince & Slimcase Nigeria Diet
6 DJ Maphorisa South Africa Midnight Ft. DJ Tira, Busiswa, Moonchild Sanelly
7 Gold Fish South Africa Talk to Me
8 GuiltyBeatz, Mr. Eazi, Patapaa & Pappy Kojo Ghana Akwaaba
9 Lartiste Morocco Mafiosa Ft. Carolina
10 Master KG South Africa Skeleton Move Ft. Zanda Zakuza
11 Mr. Real Nigeria Legbegbe
12 Patoranking Nigeria Available

BEST AFRICAN DUO, GROUP OR BAND
Name of Duo/Group/Band Country Track Title
1 4Keus DRC Mignon Garçon Ft. Naza, Keblack & Dry
2 Distruction Boyz South Africa Omunye Ft. Benny Maverick & Dladla Mshunqisi
3 Fnaïre Morocco Siri Siri
4 H-Kayne Morocco Do What You Can’t Ft. Khaoula
5 Mafikizolo South Africa Love Potion
6 Mi Casa South Africa Nana
7 Revolution Cote d’Ivoire Kelly Ft. Magic System
8 Rythmz Cameroon Fedeti
9 Sauti Sol Kenya Melanin Ft. Patoranking
10 Toofan Togo Money

BEST ARTISTE, DUO OR GROUP IN AFRICAN HIP HOP
Name of Artiste Country Track title
1 Black M Guinea Mama
2 Cassper Nyovest South Africa Ksazobalit
3 Falz Nigeria Next Ft. Maleek Berry & Medikal
4 Khaligraph Jones Kenya Rider Ft. Petra
5 Kwesta South Africa Spirit Ft. Wale
6 M.ANIFEST FT KING PROMISE Ghana ME NE WOA
7 MHD Guinea Bodyguard Ft. Sidiki Diabaté
8 Muslim Morocco Aji M3aya
9 Nadia Nakai & Frank Casino South Africa Money Calling
10 Shane Eagle South Africa Let it Flow
11 Sofiane Algeria Arafricain Ft. Maître Gims

BEST ARTISTE, DUO OR GROUP IN AFRICAN JAZZ
Name of Artiste Country Track title
1 Alune Wade Senegal African Fast Food
2 Anabela Aya Angola I Love You Bue
3 Betty G Ethiopia Mengedegna
4 Fadhilee Kenya Afirika
5 Sibusiso Mashiloane South Africa Niza

BEST AFRICAN RAPPER OR LYRICIST
Name of Artiste Country Track title
1 Cassper Nyovest South Africa Ksazobalit
2 Falz Nigeria La Fête
3 Khaligraph Jones Kenya Rider Ft. Petra
4 Muslim Morocco Aji M3aya
5 Nadia Nakai South Africa Naaa Meeaan Ft. Cassper Nyovest
6 Nasty C South Africa Jungle
7 Rouge South Africa Dololo Ft. Bigstar
8 Shane Eagle South Africa Let it Flow

BEST ARTISTE, DUO OR GROUP IN AFRICAN POP
Name of Artiste Country Track title
1 2Baba Nigeria Amaka Ft. Peruzzi
2 Abu Egypt 3 Daqat Ft. Yousra
3 Ammara Brown Zimbabwe Akiliz
4 Fally Ipupa DRC Mannequin Ft. KeBlack & Naza
5 Kuami Eugene Ghana Angela
6 Lyna Mahyem Algeria Bye Bye Ft. Medi Meyz
7 Maître Gims DRC La Meme Ft. Vianney
8 MHD & Wizkid Guinea Bella
9 Simi Nigeria Joromi
10 Toofan Togo Money
11 Vanessa Mdee Tanzania Wet Ft GNako

BEST ARTISTE, DUO OR GROUP IN AFRICAN RAGGA, REGGAE & DANCEHALL
Name of Artiste Country Track title
1 Burna Boy Nigeria Heaven’s Gate Ft. Lily Allen
2 Diamond Platnumz Tanzania Hallelujah Ft. Morgan Heritage
3 DJ Moh Green Algeria Kondo Ft. Locko & Axel Tony
4 Jah Prayzah Zimbabwe Angel Lo Ft. Jah Cure
5 MzVee Ghana Sing My Name Ft. Patoranking
6 Patoranking Nigeria Suh Different
7 Roberto Zambia Contolola Ft. Patoranking
8 Sauti Sol Kenya Melanin Ft Patoranking
9 Shatta Wale Ghana Gringo
10 Stonebwoy Ghana Hero
11 Van Morocco Live Your Dream Ft. Dub Afrika

BEST ARTISTE, DUO OR GROUP IN AFRICAN R ‘N’ B & SOUL
Name of Artiste Country Track title
1 Asikey Nigeria Dark
2 Banky W Nigeria Love You Baby
3 Bruna Tatiana Angola Amo-te
4 Dadju DRC Bob Marley
5 Djodje & Patoranking Cape Verde Be Mine
6 Emtee South Africa Me and You Ft. Tiwa Savage
7 Locko Cameroon Je Serai La
8 Patty Monroe South Africa Reminiscing
9 Praiz Nigeria Champagne and Flowers
10 Shekhinah South Africa Please Mr.

BEST ARTISTE, DUO OR GROUP IN AFRICAN ROCK
Name of Artiste Country Track title
1 Angelique Kidjo Benin Once in a Lifetime
2 Bebe Cool Uganda Freedom
3 Betty G Ethiopia Ere Manew
4 Fokofpolisiekar South Africa Komma
5 Hoba Hoba Spirit Morocco Jnouni
6 Maryam Saleh, Maurice Louca, Tamer Abu Ghazaleh Egypt Ekaa Maksour
7 Rash Kenya Nitachange Ft. Ruff

BEST ARTISTE, DUO OR GROUP IN AFRICAN TRADITIONAL
Name of Artiste Country Track title
1 Bombino Niger Tehigren (The Trees)
2 Fatoumata Diawara Mali Nterini
3 Harouna Samake Mali Try Voice
4 Irene Namatovu Uganda Nsambila Nyuma Nga Janzi
5 Raina Ray Morocco Zhar
6 Stephane Akam Cameroon Che Woue
7 Teni Nigeria Fargin
8 Themindofay Nigeria Sasa
9 Wally Seck Senegal Mirna
10 Wutah Ghana Bronya

BEST FEMALE ARTISTE IN AFRICAN INSPIRATIONAL MUSIC
Name of Artiste Country Track title
1 Amanda Malela DRC Kumama
2 Charlotte Dipanda Cameroon Sista Ft. Yemi Alade
3 DJ Lee Ethiopia Etege
4 Gloria Muliro Kenya Narudisha
5 Janet Otieno Kenya Narudi
6 Ogecha Nigeria Ufedo Mi
7 Ruby The Pigeon Namibia Rorisang
8 Sandra Nankoma Uganda Kaddugala

BEST MALE ARTISTE IN AFRICAN INSPIRATIONAL MUSIC
Name of Artiste Country Track Title
1 Cobhams Asuquo Nigeria One Hit
2 Degg J Force Guinea Fale
3 Falz Nigeria Child of the World
4 Macky2 Zambia Umutima Wandi Ft. Ephraim & Njamba
5 Mr. Leo Cameroon Pray
6 Ochu Sheggy Tanzania Mabusu Ya Yuda
7 Prosper Menko Cameroon Belle Weh Ft. Protek Illasheva
8 Sarkodie Ghana Glory Ft. Yung
9 Stephane Akam Cameroon Che Woue
10 Wazih Cameroon Be Happy

MOST PROMISING ARTISTE IN AFRICA
Name of Artiste Country Track Title
1 Amanda Malela DRC Kumama
2 Blanche Baily Cameroon BonBon
3 DJ Zoumanto Cameroon Do Like I Do Ft. Ko-C & Mimie
4 Gaz Mawete DRC Paulina
5 Kidi Ghana Odo Ft. Mayorkun & Davido
6 King Promise Ghana CCTV Ft. Mugeez
7 Ko-C Cameroon Bollo C’est Bollo
8 Kuami Eugene Ghana Confusion
9 Lily Malawi Bad at Love
10 Lyna Mahyem Algeria ByeBye Ft Medi Meyz
11 Tamy Zimbabwe Beautiful Ndozvandiri Ft. Takura & Dobba Don

PRODUCER OF THE YEAR
Producer Country Track or Album Title
1 David Scott, DJ Maphorisa, Shekhinah and Luke Goliath South Africa Rose Gold
2 DJ Kore Morocco Casablanca
3 Fresh VDM Togo Fia
4 GuiltyBeatz Ghana Akwaaba
5 Killertunes Nigeria Nowo
6 Laizer Classic Tanzania A Boy from Tandale
7 Makwa 6eats South Africa Spirit
8 NorthBoi Nigeria Soco
9 Renaud Rebillaud DRC La Meme
10 Yamiu Mola Ethiopia Wegegta

REVELATION OF THE AFRICAN CONTINENT
Name of Artiste Country Track title
1 Ammara Brown Zimbabwe Akiliz
2 Aya Nakamura Mali Djadja
3 Betty G Ethiopia Ere Manew
4 Dadju DRC Gentlemen 2.0
5 Iyenga DRC Sorry
6 Mayorkun Nigeria Bobo
7 Mimie Cameroon Je m’en Fous
8 Shekhinah South Africa Please Mr.
9 Soul Bangs Guinea Kameremba
10 Vegedream Cote d’Ivoire La Fuite Ft. DJ Leska

SONG OF THE YEAR
Artiste Track Title Country
1 Daphne My Lover Cameroon
2 Davido FIA Nigeria
3 GuiltyBeatz, Mr. Eazi, Patapaa & Pappy Kojo Akwaaba Ghana
4 Kwesta Ft. Wale Spirit South Africa
5 Maître Gims Ft. Vianney La Meme DRC
6 Major Lazer & DJ Maphorisa Ft. Nasty C, Ice Prince, Patoranking & Jidenna Particula South Africa
7 Nasty C & Runtown Said South Africa/Nigeria
8 Saad Lamjarred Casablanca Morocco
9 Sauti Sol Ft. Patoranking Melanin Kenya
10 Starboy Ft. Terry, Spotless, Ceeza Milli & Wizkid Soco Nigeria
11 Tiwa Savage ft Wizkid & Spellz Ma Lo Nigeria

SONGWRITER OF THE YEAR
Name of Songwriter Country Song Title (& Artiste)
1 Cobhams Asuquo Nigeria One Hit (Cobhams Asuquo)
2 Daphne Nije, Salatiel Cameroon Jusqu’à la Gare (Daphne)
3 Maître Gims, Vianney, Renaud Rebillaud DRC La Meme (Maître Gims Ft. Vianney)
4 Nandy Tanzania kivuruge
5 Nasibu Abdul Juma Issaack Tanzania Sikomi (Diamond Platnumz)
6 Saim El-Hadj Algeria Ya Mraya (Hamza El Fadly)
7 Shekhinah Donell, Amon Taulo Chibiya II South Africa Different (Shekhinah Ft. Mariechan)
8 Simisola Nigeria Complete Me (Simi)
9 Venancio Angola Amo-te (Bruna Tatiana)

AFRICAN FANS’ FAVOURITE
Name of Artist Country Track title
1 Afro B Cote d’Ivoire Drogba (Joanna) Ft. Wizkid
2 AKA South Africa Fela in Versace Ft. Kiddominant
3 Aminux Morocco Ghanhibo
4 Hardy Caprio Sierra Leone Best Life Ft. One Acen
5 Heavy K South Africa Indie Ft. Bucie & Nokwazi
6 IAMDBB Angola Shade
7 J Hus Gambia Dark Vader
8 Kojo Funds Ghana Stallin’
9 Maleek Berry Nigeria Pon My Mind
10 Nedy Music Tanzania One and Only Ft. Ruby
11 Not3s Nigeria My Lover
12 Ommy Dimpoz Tanzania Yanje featuring Seyi Shay
13 Phyno Nigeria N.W.A. Ft. Wale
14 Winky D Zimbabwe Ngirozi Ft Vabati VaJehovah
15 Yxng Bane Angola/DRC Vroom

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Fisayo is a journalist in search of words. Tweet at her @fisvyo

ICYMI: Africa Taking Over

The NATIVE presents: Best songs of the year so far

Posted on by The Native

Skepta – “Energy” Feat. Wizkid


For most celebrities, social media serves as the primary access through which fans glimpse into their personal lives. But if you’ve ever wondered just how good Wizkid and Skepta’s relationship is, the vivid descriptions on Skepta’s “Energy” is your best bet. After collaborating on the famous remix of “Ojuelegba”, the two linked up for their first official single, solidifying the cordial relationship both have built over the years. While Skepta’s self-assured verses, counting his blessings is layered with intimidating jabs, Wizkid’s sultry vocals serve as a lightweight filter for Skepta’s grime sensibilities.

Starboy – “Soco” Feat. Spotless, Terri, Ceeza Milli, Wizkid

After releasing ‘Sounds From the Other Side’ to lukewarm local reception, Wizkid quickly realigned himself with Starboy music releases, tailored for his homegrown supporters. Though “Manya” from last year took a while to catch on, “Soco” featuring Terri, Ceeza Milli, Spotless and Wizkid were received on arrival. Perhaps it was Wizkid’s shameless embrace of the Afropop sound he seemingly abandoned by releasing a project featuring only international artists, or the catchy pseudo-spiritual spin of Wizkid’s bridge, “Soco” is another massive hit under the Starboy’s iced-out sleeves.

Hamzaa – “Strand Love”

Hamzaa’s “Stranded Love” embodies the feelings from that moment after a break up, when you realize you may have underestimated the impact of the heart break. While her emotive vocal performance tugs at tear ducts, the drop of the beat turns her melancholy into zen pop with fairytale-esque production from Eddie Serafica. Understandably, she cuts through the fantasy, declaring “You Belong To Me” on the hook.

Olamide – “Science Student”

2018 has been a good year of socially-charged agendas, but Olamide’s “Science Student” is easily the most remarkable. His unabridged detailing of the drug epidemic in Nigeria was equal part horrific and enticing; an apparent recipe for getting people to react. “Science Student” became a hit off of the outrageous and humorous lyrics, but some who felt the problem was better left ignored were offended by the song and asked for its ban. In retrospect, those same people probably watched BBC’s documentary on drug abuse and blamed Nigerian youths for the drug epidemic.

Good Girl LA – “Faraway”

On “Faraway”, Good Girl LA’s debut single, the singer offers rich, lived-in metaphors, as messy as constellations pregnant with meaning, elusive, yet utterly compelling. “Na Me And You Suppose To Dey Ball Around The Town/ Show The Other Man Say You Got A Trophy Wife”, the song’s centrepiece, is the most direct and raw words you can hear from anyone. The beat Syn X produces with soaring synth lines that echo softly but never reaches a climax, soaks up Good Girl LA’s mopey cooing. Though her vocals are emotional, exploring the contours of her sorrow, she’s careful not to stray into rejection as her despair is all but moored in praises; “Baby I Dey Fall For You/ I Go Die For You”.

Burna Boy – “Ye”

Nobody pens song about their harsh reality more relatable than Burna Boy. After capturing the strain of being a Nigerian on “Soke”, it’s hardly a surprise that Nigerians have called for “Ye”, off his ‘Outside’ album, to be the new national anthem. Though he sings “Ye ye oh Ye ye Oh Yeyeyeye Oh” melodiously, his melancholy is conveyed through the root meaning of “Ye”, an onomatopoeia that roughly translates to “ouch”. Through the song, he seems to be celebrating his achievements, but it’s done in a way that highlights the rough path to success.

DMW – “Aje”

Members of Davido’s DMW label and music group have been forging their own space in the fringes by putting out singles and even projects. From Mayorkun to Dremo, they’ve released quite a bit of music featuring de facto leader, Davido to help build a healthy buzz over the last few years. But with the release of “Aje”, featuring Yonda, Davido, Peruzzi and Fresh VDM, the lesser known members of the group seems more visible than ever. Though they all perform sets filled with the sweetest melodies and soothing tones, the approach is more business by the committee as “Aje” shows the disparity of the group’s affections.

Duncan Mighty – “Fake Love” Feat. Wizkid

Of all the pivots in Duncan Mighty’s long career, “Fake Love” featuring Wizkid is the most sublime. After releasing 4 well-accepted albums between 2010 to 2014, the self-proclaimed Port Harcourt first son influenced the sound of Afropop with his highlife melodies. It’s interesting that 4 years later, the sound is still thriving thanks to artists like Wizkid. Duncan Mighty and Wizkid’s collaboration on “Fake Love” is a testament to Afropop’s rich history and harmony, pairing two iconic artists from different eras to perform the heartfelt song about trust and relationships.

Davido – “Assurance”

Romantic themed dance songs often come off a bit deceptive because of the insincerity of the lyrics. But with the well-curated rollout for “Assurance”, showing Davido appreciating the song’s muse, there’s no questioning the honesty of Davido’s lyrics. He is genteel, charming and accessible, serenading his love interest and delighting in her flair singing, “Chioma My Lover, She Dey Wear Designer, She Get The Dollar”. But for all its sentimentality, Davido recognizes love isn’t a fantasy and makes sure to emphasize the importance of an “Assurance” (money) in relationships.

BoyBreed – “Follow Back” feat Jilex Anderson

Boy Breed’s “Follow Back” is deliberately sensitive, vulnerable. Set on a whin-friendly melody, “Follow Back” is a telling of the exaggerated importance of first impressions in relationships instigated online. With additional vocals from Jilex Anderson on “Follow Back”, brothers Namdy and Frank create a theme song for the mystique and wonder of falling in love over likes and filtered images.

Mayorkun – “Bobo” Feat. Davido

A truly great pop song holds you in the moments when you’re most vulnerable, like when you’re in the shower thinking about lovers that could have been. Mayorkun hits that mark with “Bobo”, a song dedicated to the sinking feeling of falling for someone out of your league. And though his emotive performance is compelling, it’s the inclusion of Davido’s verse where he seemingly plays himself as the irresistible playboy that makes “Bobo” the riveting Afropop song it is.

Odunsi x Zamir x Santi – “Alte Cruise”

For lack of a better description, the new generation of artists emerging in the Nigerian soundscape were referred to as ‘Alternative’, despite making the same conventional Afropop songs with a bit more attention to composition. They’ve since built a notable fanbase and gone on to carve their own niche with their distinctly 90’s aesthetic. The culmination and full realization of the sound’s mythos is celebrated on “Alte Cruise”, featuring Odunsi, Santi and Zamir who flaunt their appeal through a pseudo-romantic single produced and mixed by  Yinoluu and GMK respectively.

Teni – Askamaya 

Teni’s penchant for turning Yoruba slangs into buzzwords for her music releases paid off on “Askamaya”, an Afropop song that tributes Adewale Ayuba’s classic, “Omoge Cinderella”. The earworm-ing melodies Spellz produces are fitting for the song’s rich narrative, reflecting on the flirtatious lifestyle of sex workers. Though society often hypocritically castigates call girls, “Askamaya” finds Teni celebrating the euphoric life without any trace of self-pity. Her lyrics singing, “Emi Nikan Tan, You Didn’t Fuck Me/ Listen I’m the Girl You Shouldn’t Fuck With” has so much spunk, it just might hike the price of your favorite sex worker.

Yinka Bernie – “Epistles” feat Amaarae and Idris King


Watch out for Idris King’s French-infused soulful entry on this slow-dance bop, by Yinka Bernie. Like any song dedicated to those late night conversations under covers, Yinka Bernie crafted this track to serve as the perfect homage to the throes of blossoming love. If you have any further questions, additional silky vocals from Amaarae at the close of “Epistles” will tell you everything else you need to know.

Patoranking – “Suh Different”

“Suh Different” is the latest chapter in Patoranking’s championed sound, melding influences from homegrown Afro-Pop and Reggaeton. Over the sparse production, booming bass, rumbling drums and percussion, he sings of the type of love that makes you excited about the weekend. His pseudo-romantic confessional lyrics are just the lightweight and steamy enough to serve as the perfect offhand aphrodisiac to set the mood.

PrettyBoy D-O – “Chop Elbow”

Despite D-O being warned to not listen to what “those NATIVE people” have to say, we must say this: “Chop Elbow” is the strongest indication we’ve seen thus far to suggest that D-O is here to stay. From the late 90s inspired music video, to the enchanting refrain of “Gbo”, the artist who previously shone on dancehall-inspired records, truly comes into his own. The new generation of Nigerian artists get a bad rap for their distinct lack of social activism, but with records like “Elbow” in rotation, it shows just how it can be done. – SS

Tay Iwar – “Miracle Girl” 

Tay Iwar’s spirited tracks have always spoken for this enigmatic singer, songwriter, and sound engineer. On this track – the final piece of his teasing trifecta, 1997 – Austin ‘Tay’ Iwar is reminiscent of the young Frank Ocean, making use of simple chords during the verse, contrasted by an electric guitar accompanied by autotuned notes over the hook. The simplicity on the track places the right emphasis on his powerful vocals and the lyrics of the song, a fitting highlight considering the subject at hand is a passionate explosion of emotions. – Woju

 

Akin Omotoso’s Coming-Of-Age film, “Vaya” set for Netflix debut

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Ava DuVernay’s film collective, ARRAY Releases, has acquired distribution rights to Nigerian filmmaker, Akin Omotoso’s South African based film, “Vaya”. According to DuVernay’s announcement, the collective has aquired distribution rights for United States, Canada, United Kingdom, Australia, Ireland and New Zealand. Omotoso’s film is thus set for an international tour in these locations, as well as a Netflix debut, which DuVernay confirms has been fixed for the 1st of November this year.

Based on real accounts, “Vaya”, which was first seen at the 2016 edition of the Toronto International Film Festival, is a coming-of-age story that follows the lives of three South African teenagers, who, led by the hopes of vast opportunities in the country’s metropolitan cities, leave their rural homes for the city of Johannesburg. The trailer for the Omotoso-directed film starts with a seemingly peaceful farmhouse conversation that abruptly develops into a gun-blazing scene when an unidentified man shoots another over a minor dispute. The teenagers run away from home and have to find dangerous ways (sometimes) to fend for themselves in what seems to be a menacing supersonic city.

Watch the trailer for “Vaya” here:


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Genevieve Nnaji makes her directorial debut with “Lionheart”

DJ Coublon features Chidinma on his romantic new single, “Nwoke”

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Chidinma turns her emotions into dancefloor seduction on “Nwoke”, DJ Coublon’s new single. On it, Chidinma feels like greeting an old friend we haven’t seen in months; the latest on her personal catalogue has been since March. Here, DJ Coublon, Klem and Chidinma show a good sense of teamwork.

Chidinma’s assertive vocals on “Nwoke”, as she sings the praise of a love interest, are instantly alluring, but the song’s appeal lies in the catchy melody of the beat that DJ Coublon produces with traditional drum riffs, a mid-tempo piano sample and horns. Though “Nwoke” listens like a modest romantic song with local instruments and the fusion of English and Igbo in Chidinma’s lyrics, the clever word play by the song’s writer, Klem, hides the song’s more vulgar sentiments; “You Dey Carry Me Like Say You Be Lalala”.

You can stream DJ Coublon and Chidinma’s “Nwoke” below.

Featured Image Credits: Instagram/chidinmaekile
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ICYMI: You can watch Chidinma’s video for “Yanga” here

Listen to Sauti Sol’s “Tujiangalie”, featuring Nyashinski

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Language may not be universal, but the consequences of socio-economic conflicts are. Over time, musicians and other public figures from all corners of the world have lent their voices and employed their status to raise awareness and urge public action on the issues they identify with. The single global ecosystem that came with social media made it easier to pass these messages across faster. However, as Sauti Sol point out in their recently released single “Tujiangalie”, the positive messages are often clouded by distraction antis, which threaten the strides of messengers when communicating issues and educating the public. “Tujiangalie”, according to a statement from Sauti Sol, is an attempt to call out this anti-culture. The Swahili word, which translates to “look within”, is repeated continually, over soft-guitar strums that convey the earnestness of the message.

Though they sing entirely in Swahili, the accompanying lyric video goes further in communicating the message. As the group —assisted by another Kenyan singer, Nyashinski— urge Kenyan youths to slow down, introspect and reflect on their shortcomings, images of the fast-paced life of city dwellers slide through the background of the changing lyrics. A statement Sauti Sol released along with the video confirms that “Tujiangalie” will appear on their forthcoming pan-African album, ‘Afrikan Sauce‘, making this the 6th single released from the LP. Previously released singles include, “Afrikan star”, featuring Burna Boy; “Sweet n Short”, with Nyashinski and the Khaligraph Jones-assisted “Rewind”.

Check out Sauti Sol’s “Tujiangalie” here

Featured Image Credit: Instagram/Sautisol

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Simi Covers Skepta and Wizkid’s “Energy”

The Black Esper’s “Thoughts and Contemplation” on album, RICE

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The Black Esper just released his debut album, RICE —a 6-track project with spoken interludes, gorgeous beats, and low-fi snippets that highlight the album’s reflective direction. Produced by Emani, “Thoughts and Contemplation” weaves a web between various pillars of neo-soul, and sun-dried hip-hop, but it’s The Black Esper’s earnest persona, scanning himself as much as he questions society, that captures the struggles that define the album.

https://www.instagram.com/p/Bm5LTK3ldq9/?taken-by=theblackesper

Asides admitting the strain of putting his thoughts to words, his lyrics, “Feeling Confused And Out of Place Since I Was A Teen/ Is That One of The Qualities of Being a Human Being?”, reflect sentiments from trying to find yourself. Though he recognizes the lightweight effect of recreational drugs and booze, on his anxieties and confused thoughts, they don’t seem to offer the escape he seeks from his own head; “I’m Tired of Looking In The Mirror, That Nigga Don’t Know What He’s Doing”.

You can stream The Black Esper’s “Thoughts and Contemplation” below.

Featured Image Credits: Instagram/theblackesper
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ICYMI: Listen to The Black Esper’s “All Na Packaging” here

Watch Johnny Drille and Simi play contemplative lovers in “Halleluya”

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At the start of Jonny Drille’s “Halleluya” music video, he is sitting on a couch in an animated room, looking earnestly at his feet and pacing the room slowly, as if in deep thoughts about life’s dealings. The synth-piano, soft drums and acoustic guitar instrumentals, which he produces himself, play in the background and create the perfect scenery for dialogues one may akin to a spiritually-inclined song about grace. The lyrics however shift this perspective, as Johnny Drille, assisted by Simi, sings about love in all its beauty and mercy.

As he moves through sets with colorful, animated backgrounds, his quiet-bedroom vocals and his lyrics convey the nervousness that often accompanies the possibility of unrequited feelings. “I wan talk my mind and say how i feel inside, but i fear she won’t feel the same”, he sings to his love interest —played by Simi— hoping that she gives their love a shot.

Simi adds to the story  “Halleluya” with equally emotive sentiments. The video sets her against sun-bright backgrounds as she sings about her own ambivalence motivated by the mixed feelings his fear of rejection communicate. On the colorful sets she shares with Drille, she urges him to express his feelings, “Oh if he loves me/One day he’ll tell me”, so that they can fulfill the forever he sings about at the start of  “Halleluya”.

Watch Johnny Drille and Simi in the Video for “Halleluya” here:

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Simi Covers Skepta and Wizkid’s “Energy”

Listen to “Pull UP” by Sugar Bana

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Sugar Bana’s mournful fixation on his latest single, “Pull Up”, makes it hardly seem fit for dance music. But with the deft production from Mike Misan and Cracker Mallo, lifting his misty vocals into house and techno firmament, his romantic lyrics are flushed in dance music’s rosy glow.

While his lyrics switch from English, Patois and Yoruba, his tempo and rhythmic cadence never stray outside of the Reggae trope. As he sings “Baby Girl, Because You Hold Me Down/ Girl I Promise That I’d Never Let You Down”, “Pull Up” glistens as theme music for the pleasant moments in relationships.

You can stream Sugar Bana’s “Pull Up” below.

Featured Image Credits: Instagram/iamsugarbana
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ICYMI: Patoranking’s “Suh Different” is proof that everything sounds better in patois

Premiering Today on OWNTV, Ava DuVernay’s “August 28” —Starring Lupita Nyong’o, David Oyelowo

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Ava DuVernay’s short documentary, August 28: A Day in the Life of a People focuses on six different events in Black and African-American history that all occurred on the same day in various years.

These events, according to DuVernay, include the abolition of slavery in the U.K on August 28, 1833; the lynching of Emmett Till on August 28, 1955; the first radio airplay of The Marvelettes’ “Please Mr. Postman” from Motown Records on August 28, 1961; Martin Luther King Jr’s “I Have A Dream” speech on August 28, 1963; the tragic landfall of Hurricane Katrina on August 28, 2005; and Barack Obama’s acceptance of the Democratic nomination for President on August 28, 2008.

DuVernay who has worked on films of such themes, like  Selma, and her debut film, This is the Life —a documentary on the history on hip hop movement— employs a combination of documentary and narrative techniques to tell the momentous stories. She enlists actors — Lupita Nyong’o, Angela Bassett, Regina King, David Oyelowo, Don Cheadle, Lupita Nyong’o, Michael Ealy, Andre Holland, Gugu Mbatha-Raw, and Glynn Thurman, who narrate moments, while playing roles that depict the lives of an average person in the specific times in history. These scenes, as the trailer shows, have interludes of videos and documentaries of the historical moments.

August 28: A Day in the Life of a People —which DuVernay directs, scripts and produces— is in partnership with  Smithsonian’s National Museum of African-American History and Culture in Washington D.C. It was previously only showed at the Museum’s Oprah Winfrey Theater. Both parties have since decided to open it to a larger audience via the Oprah Winfrey Network, set rightfully to premiere today —28th of August.

Watch the trailer here:

Featured Image Credits: Ava DuVernay trailer “August 28” YouTube/Blackfilmweb

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See Idris Elba in “On The Run”

Simi to make acting debut in Kunle Afolayan’s film, “Mokalik”

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With photo-shoot sessions and dramatic music videos, Simi’s career as a singer has afforded her more time behind the camera than most people. But despite having a familiar face on TV, she has never taken up an acting role. This is set to change as she has been unveiled as a cast on Kunle Afolayan’s upcoming Yoruba movie, “Mokalik”. 

https://instagram.com/p/Bm-VUxRFKO-/?utm_source=ig_embed&utm_campaign=embed_loading_state_script

According to Afolayan’s Instagram statement,  the title, “Mokalik” —‘Mechanic’ as pronounced by a native Yoruba speaker, as Afolayan affirms— is a tribute to his father’s 1983 classic Yoruba film, “Taxi Diver”. The script, which was written by Tunde Babalola, was supposedly inspired by his constant visits to mechanic shops. It follows a day in the life of Jaiye, an 11-year-old boy whose father him immerses in an apprentice job after he fails his primary school final exams, hoping that the experience would set him straight. Perplexed but unwilling to go against his father’s wishes, Jaiye grudgingly takes on the Job with different mechanics in various work stations.

Simi’s character —a 21-year-old lady also named Simi— meets Jaiye at work and as they discuss, he confesses to her that he has intentions to remain as a Mechanic-apprentice. In response, Simi offers valued advice about life and choices, which Jaiye ponders through the rest of the day.

As posted on the multiple-award winning director’s Instagram, the film is currently in production. Along with Simi, the film also stars Yoruba actors, including Femi Adebayo, Lateef Oladimeji and Ayo Adesanya.

Featured Image Credit: Instagram/kunleafo
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Simi Covers Skepta and Wizkid’s “Energy”

 

See Bracket and Duncan Mighty in their music video for “Chinelo”

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The recent resurgence of Duncan Mighty on radio has marked the height of this sentimental era of Afropop.  With Bracket’s latest single, “Chinelo” which features Duncan, the group seem set to get in on some of the “Fake Love” action as well.

Afropop stars have been milking nostalgia for all its worth, through familiar samples and references to popular tunes from the genre’s deep bag of classic. “Chinelo” is a romance-themed song, and with a casual rhythmic percussion baseline and Afropop drum,  you can expect to hear it on church wedding dance floors too. Duncan Mighty joins Obumneme Ali, a.k.a. Smash and Nwachukwu Ozioko, a.k.a. Vast, to perform emotive sets which they perform in the intimate music video. Avalon Okpe directs showing lingering and slow-mo shots of a pleasant relationship that mirrors the artists lyrics.

You can watch the video for “Chinelo” below.

Featured Image Credits: YouTube/OfficialBracket
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ICYMI: See the video for Tiwa Savage and Duncan Mighty’s “Lova Lova” here

Idris Elba Will Not Be the Next James Bond

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After nearly a decade of rumors placing Idris Elba as next-in-line to play the 007 role, the actor has definitively laid the speculations to rest.

At Tuesday’s premiere of his directorial debut —“Yardie”— on Good Morning Britain, Idris Elba was asked whether or not he was set to star as James Bond (after Daniel Craig) in the film series; he plainly replied, “No”.

This confirmation came just days after it was announced that the film’s long-running director, Danny Boyle, had parted ways with the franchise. According to Boyle, he left because the franchise was thinking of killing off 007 and he found the idea to be “ridiculous”. Daniel Craig’s appearance in the yet-to-be-titled 25th installment of the James Bond series is expected to be his last. It’s set to start filming in December and is estimated to be released in October 2019. These dates may however change after Boyle’s resignation.

Watch Idris Elba’s interview here:

Featured Image Credits: Twitter/Idriselba (rednoseday.org)

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See Idris Elba in “On The Run”

Ugandan Politician and Musician, Bobi Wine, released a week after arrest

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A judge in Uganda ( Justice Stephen Mubiru) has granted bail to Bobi Wine, a popular musician-turned-politician, arrested for treason during a campaign in Uganda (Arua Municipality). He is one amongst 32 other oppositions that have been charged.

Demands for his release were made after videos of a teary Bobi Wine started circulating in the media. The Law Society of Kenya were particularly vocal about their protest of the arrests, threatening to stage a protest on the streets of Kampala if the legislators weren’t released. This Monday, 27th August, Bobi Wine and 11 other Members of Parliament were granted bail and released with the court martial withdrawing the treason charges against them.

Bob Wine (who is formally known as Robert Kyagulani) was kept in a military detention centre in Uganda on 13th August, 2018, for an alleged involvement in the stoning of the current President of Uganda’s convoy (Yoweri Museveni). Bobi Wine’s lawyers said he had been tortured severely while in custody and could neither walk or talk. The claims were rejected by the government, including by President Museveni.

Although he was released from the military base last week, the Ugandan government rearrested him and 11 other Members of Parliament, charging them in a magistrate court for unlawful possession of weapons and ammunition.

Since winning a seat as Kyadondo East Member of Parliament, Bobi Wine has been more active than ever in politics, securing the votes of citizens who he has given hope to, some of who want him to become the next president of Uganda. The current president, Museveni has been in office for over three decades. Bob Wine’s supporters protested for his release in Kampala last week.

Bobi Wine, and the thirtyfold accused oppositions, are still expected back in court on 30th August and other court summons they may have to go for.

Featured Image Credits: Instagram/bobiwine

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ICYMI: Read On Bobi Wine’s Parliament Win in Uganda

6 videos you should see this week

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Terry Apala – “Mushin”

Terry Apala has released a follow up video to “Mushin” —a cover to Ramz’s “Barking”— which was issued earlier this month. The song tributes Mushin, the street Terry Apala grew up in and the video finds a similar directive, set on the streets of Mushin, where friends from the streets show their support through their cameos. Like himself and his style, the video infuses the odd blend of his rough zonked out vocals and his urban lyrics. It is indigenously created with a clean, yet low-budget imagery of pot-hole ridden streets and wooden pillars of a street shop used as a makeshift stripper pole.

Uncle Murda x 50 Cent x 6ix9ine x Casanova – “Get The Strap”

The bromance between 50 Cent and 6ix9ine, and 50’s declaration of the 22-year old rapper as the “King of New York”, has long-envisaged a possible collaboration which we finally have thanks to Uncle Murda’s “Get The Strap”. The two rappers join Uncle Murda and Casanova for a gangster-core rap number where they ridicule their competition. The Eif Rivera-directed video opens with masked men robbing and shooting up a building before driving off, gun blazing. While Tekashi 6ix9ine rides out the window of a cop car, 50 Cent stands by the dork, delivering violent rap bars with a night view of the city as the backdrop. The video premiered during Episode 8 of “Power”.

Beverly Oh – “Pull Up” 

Being fierce has never looked sexier than in 2018, with role models like Cardi B, turning unfiltered charisma into charm. For her latest single, “Pull Up”, Beverly Oh performs an empowering set, basking in her glow. Over the catchy instrumentals produced by Insane Chips, she takes a dark intense direction to fend off competition. As she sings, “Warning, I’m Coming/ Toxic, I’m Burning”, Paul Gambit directs the music video portraying Beverly Oh as a superstar who walks around with an entourage of dancers and rides around the city in a Benz.

Cardi B – “Ring” feat. Kehlani

Off her recently released Invasion of Privacy album debut, Cardi B just released the video for the 8th track, “Ring”, featuring Kehlani. Produced by Scribz, Needlz and Donut, “Ring” is one of the more somber cuts from the album. On it, the rapper and the singer lament the lack of communication in their relationships. The surreal video for “Ring” is directed by Mike Ho, who shows both artists in symbolic shots such as a floating phone booth and Cardi in tangled black ropes. The unmistakable melancholy in the song reflects in the tortured direction of the video.

Joey B – “Stables” feat. La Meme Gang

Joey B’s latest single, “Stables” is instantly recognizable as Country music through the bounce of the guitar-led-instrumental produced by NOVA. However, the other elements of the production lean closer to Pop music through the fusion of synths and verses from Joey B and La Même Gang (Darkovibes, Kiddblack, $pacely, KwakuBS, and RJZ). The music video, directed by David Duncan, also infuses Country-esque elements through an open field setting where all artists tan in the sun and ride around on horses and bikes.

Goosebumps 2: Haunted Halloween

After the success of 2015’s “Goosebumps” —which marked the fourth Sony film to reign at the top of the box office during the fall— Sony is returning with a sequel to the live action family film called “Goosebumps 2: Haunted Halloween”. Although cuts from the trailer reveal that the story continues from where the first part stopped with R. L. Stine’s book making an appearance, the cast for “Haunted Halloween” is primarily new. Some of the other changes made to the film’s franchise also include Rob Lieber penning the script and Ari Sandel taking over in the director’s chair. From the teaser trailer, we see two kids stumble on Stine’s old house, finding a locked book that unleashes an animate dummy that naturally embarks on an evil mission to bring more creatures to life on Halloween. The film is expected to start showing in cinemas this October.

Featured Image Credits: YouTube/Joey B
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ICYMI: Listen to Terry Apala’s “Mushin”, a cover of Ramzy’s “Barking”

Nana Rogues features Wizkid and Not3s for new single, “To The Max”

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If influencing is the ultimate millennial profession, Nana Rogues’ latest single, “To The Max”, blurs the lines between curator and artist. After producing Drake’s “Passionfruit”, Section Boyz’s “Trappin Aint Dead” and Dave’s politically-conscious “Hangman”, the UK producer and songwriter displays the culmination of his flirtations with dancehall on the new single featuring Wizkid and Not3s. For “To The Max”, he grafts Wizkid’s rubbery Afropop melodies, Not3s sultry patois and his own teasing vocals onto a breezy mid-tempo bop with a catchy Afropop bounce. Thematically however, their lyrics craft a jaded love story turned into liberating dancefloor number.

Stream Nana Rogues’ “To The Max” featuring Wizkid and Not3s below.


Features Image Credits: Instagram/nanarogues
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ICYMI: See Wizkid and MHD in their music video for “Bella”

Essentials: ‘Crown’ by Loose Kaynon and A-Q

Posted on by The Native

You have to be impressed with M.I’s resolve when it comes to taking charge of the hip-hop community. Like Kanye, he announced earlier this year that he’d be releasing a pair of projects and executive producing for other hip-hop artists before the end of the year and has since made good on his promise. His influence on Loose Kaynon and A-Q’s ‘Crown’ adds a prestigious gloss to the lofty 10-track supergroup project.

https://www.instagram.com/p/BmbBb-Qg9YK/?hl=en&taken-by=loosekaynon

Though there are a number of guest appearances from OAPs, rappers, singers and other industry heavyweights that add to the album’s elite hip-hop appeal, M.I’s presence is only felt in a brief producer tag heard on the 7th track, “No Time (Freestyle)”. But it’s just as well, allowing Loose Kaynon and A-Q soak up the limelight and shine through their ostentatious rap lines. The album opens with “Out of This World”, where A-Q instantly takes the front pedal and runs with it, painting a vivid picture of how he climbed up hip-hop’s metaphorical hierarchy over stalking bass and a sample of choir harmonies. Loose Kaynon, on the other hand, feels no need for such character development with his cocksure bars selling the established rap star image by looking down his nose at other rappers; “Y’all mediocre down there talking polite/ It’s funny how all these jokers walking around proud”.

Debbie Romeo subdued vocals like she’s mumbling a prayer to herself on the hook of “Regrets” sets the tone for Loose Kaynon and A-Q’s introspection on their understated reputation. But on “Gang Gang”, Torna replaces her on the hook and infuses an indigenous style with his eastern influenced melody and lyrics. But the track stands out for M.I’s bass-led production with a snare that sounds like static and casually affectionate brags that show off the rallying allure of Chocolate City; “Whole Team Good, We Winning/ Really Don’t Give A Fuck About Who Scores”. A-Q’s verse, obsessing over his own brilliance only emphasizes the powerhouse of Chocolate City’s lineup.

The album’s title track, “Crown”, features the duo of ShowDemCamp, and they don’t hold back from taking up as much room as Reinhard’s sparse production offers. In true cypher-esque aggression, all four rappers go hard into critics of hip-hop with rap battle like vengeance and make “Crown” the obvious centrepiece of the album. However, the tempo switches abruptly on the next track, “By Your Side”, a sultry romantic single featuring Yoye Hayba. But the heartfelt confessional is a brief detour from the album’s core narrative and the speed at which they quickly return to their boastful ways on the next track, “No Time (Freestyle)”indicates the tunnel vision for rap’s competitive throne.

Chi Gurl assisted track, “Hustlers Prayer”, finds Loose Kaynon and A-Q returning to introspective lyrics where they reflect on the downsides to being the best at what they do; “I’m Trying To Sell Records To These Confused Kids”. It’s subtle, but very effectively disarming for any counter arguments to their claims to the throne. On the album’s closing track, “God Wants Us To Be Too Lit”, Loose Kaynon and A-Q keep the authoritative brags going for the party-driven track featuring Big Daddy Jay and a bouncy trap beat produced by Beats by Jayy. Though the 10-track—including a skit—length makes for a relatively quick listen, despite their best efforts, ‘Crown’ still winds up being a monument to their own inflated prestige. With Chocolate City’s reputation and the influence of A-Q’s contagious hunger to prove a point, Loose Kaynon and A-Q prop up each other’s egos and the result is a wholesome and idiosyncratic bird’s eye view of the rap game.

You can stream ‘Crown’ by Loose Kaynon and A-Q below.

Featured Image Credits: Instagram/loosekaynon
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You are meeting Debola at a strange time in his life. He wandered into a dream and lost his way back. Tweet at him @debola_abimbolu

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