6 videos you need to see this week

Posted on by The Native

Sarz – “Get Up” Feat. Flash, DJ Tunez

Sarz’s “Get Up” was a smash on impact after its release last year. Though the lead singer, Flash revels in relative anonymity, the Sarz produced beat made the single irresistible on dancefloors. Flash’s harmonious melody over the catchy beat helped make the pseudo-romantic club banger even more pleasing to the ears and yet no one knew what he looked like. Well it may have taken over a year, but we can finally see his face and his lines “The Only Time Wey You Dey See Me Na For TV” can come to life thanks to the video for “Get Up”. There could potentially be a ton of reasons for the late release of the video, but the colourful video with models, dancers and neon lighten could see the song go viral all over again.

Migos – MotorSport Feat. Nicki Minaj, Cardi B

Even before the release of the video, “MotorSport” had all the features of hip-hop pornography; Trap beat produced by Murda Beatz and CuBeatz, swanky chemistry between the Migos trio and a potential rap battle between Cardi B and Nicki Minaj. The video takes a futuristic theme which finds Quavo, Takeoff, and Offset decked out in racing gear, their blings and some foreign cars. But if you were hoping to see Cardi, “The Trap Selena”, square off with Nicki, you’ll be disappointed. Cardi performs in front of a red Ferrari while Offset sits in the driver’s seat. Nicki is shot in a sexy solo scene with a white Lamborghini  before she is seen riding with Quavo. “MotorSport” is a pre-released single off the Culture II album expected to be released by January.

9ice – “Love You Like Kilode”

9ice had a great run this year thanks to “Living Things” off his Id Cabasa album released last year. The controversial song saw him reclaim some of his street credibility and even feature on one of the hottest songs on the streets in 2017—Junior Boy’s “Irapada 2.0”. The Alapomeji boss has released two new singles with videos; “Love You Like kilode” and “Tonight” with hopes that he continue to remain on airplay even next year. “Love You Like Kilode” is produced by Young John with synths, allowing 9ice show off his vocal range albeit aided by auto-tune. The video directed by Alexander The Great depicts the pseudo-romantic theme of the song as it shows 9ice singing to a love interest at a party where hot girls try to distract him.

Skepta – Ghost Ride Feat. A$AP Rocky, A$AP Nast

Skepta’s long -running bond with the A$AP Mob continues on “Ghost Ride” off the British rapper’s 6-track EP, Vicious. Skepta featured on the American rap group’s Cozy Tapes Vol. 1 and had A$AP Nast on his “Ladies Hit Squad” single. “Ghost Ride” is his third collaboration with the group and he takes them through grime’s hardcore rap niceties; Liquor, violence, and crime. The helter-skelter clip mashes static, smoke and distorted imagery over shots of the trio in the streets performing the song. Images of skulls, gunshots, and skeletons pop out unexpectedly for off-kilter effect.

Phyno – Obiagu

The only criticism for Phyno’s Playmaker album was that he sang a few notes too many and rode the Afropop wave a little too hard. Though there were tracks like MI and Burna Boy assisted “Link Up” that showed he can still step in a booth and spit intense bars with top Nigerian rap acts. The highlife direction the album took seemed like a way to reinforce his local support in the eastern parts, and “Obiagu” did just that. For the video, Phyno takes to the streets and shows just how popular he is with shots of people donning his Obiagu shirts on the streets. He performs the song in Igbo with chant flow that could easy be mistaken for rapping but the indigenous drums and flute harmonies say otherwise.

Alita: Battle Angel Trailer

James Cameron has been been trying to get a movie adaptation of the “Alita: Battle Angel” anime since as far back as the early 2000 and he seems to have gotten his wish. The first look we are getting of the movie shows that his patience may prove to be worth it given the advanced technology that allows him portray what might be the best anime adaptation movie. The special effect portrays the titular Alita, a cyborg warrior, with big eyes—a trademark for many manga and anime classics—and it’s a decent enough look. However, next to the normal sized human heads, some have criticized the eyes for it’s odd look in the live-action film populated with live-action human beings.

Featured Image Credits: YouTube/SKEPTA

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: Watch Runtown’s video for “For Life” here

We are officially announcing NATIVELAND 2017

Posted on by The Native

Following last year’s electric premier edition featuring J Hus, Skepta, Burna Boy and many others, NATIVE has worked tirelessly through the past 12 months to top that success. This year, NATIVE is setting up not one, but two stages to showcase what we hope would be the most diverse setlist ever put on a festival, on this side of the setting sun.

NATIVELAND 2017 is coming to Muri Okunola Park on the 22nd of December and it promises a more inclusive experience with your best selection of food vendors and festival gear. We’ll be announcing our headliners in the coming days as well as ticketing options.

Skepta
Skepta performing at NativeLand

Watch this space for more information.

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: Here are 4 things you missed from the first NATIVELAND festival

Slow-whine with Burna Boy and J Hus on “Sekkle Down”

Posted on by The Native

Burna Boy has steadied his deck with a row of releases ahead of his upcoming Outside mixtape, expected in early 2018. “Sekkle Down”, his latest single and collaboration with JHus, follows “Koni Baje” and “Streets of Africa”, two singles the singer has rolled-oui in the last four weeks.

https://www.instagram.com/p/BckskpiHNdV/?taken-by=burnaboygram

“Sekkle Down” is produced by Jae5, who has been responsible for much of J Hus’s summer debut, Common Sense. Speaking on the collaboration on Zane Lowe’s Beats 1 radio show where he premiered the song, Burna expressly declared his appreciation for J Hus and his music. The Afro-fusion singer also talked about his upcoming project and working with British singer, Lily Allen.

“Sekkle Down” is easily another one of Burna’s signature slow-whine minimalism. J Hus brings some of that effortless but reassured common sense, in a manner that compels you to consider giving his debut album another listen.

Stream Burna Boy and J Hus on “Sekkle Down” via Apple Music

Fisayo is a journalist who thinks writing is hard and reading too. But her journey somewhere reveals, words are like pawns on chessboard when writing. She wants to see, create and share with the world, experience & communicate these experiences. Tweet at her @fisvyo

Revisist: Burna Boy’s “Like To Party”, the only contender for African summer song of all time

Listen: So someone featured Bobrisky on a track

Posted on by The Native

Switching positions or careers is an unavoidable occurrence for every human. Even the strongest of us can’t turn away “change” when it comes knocking. Just ask  Okuneye Idris aka Bobrisky, who couldn’t resist stepping outside his “Internet Sensation” status to tap into the movie and music industry. While there is still no official release date for when we get to see Bobrisky the movie star, Bobrisky the singer is already a reality. Thanks to a feature on Mr Shaa’s “Barbie”.

https://www.instagram.com/p/BccHTcHDQwR/

“Barbie” is interesting the same way a friend getting a really bad hair cut is interesting: you’re shocked but still gotta look them in the eye and deal with it.

Five seconds in, you can tell Mr Shaa is not a very good singer and his inarticulate lyrics makes it hard for us to pin point what direction his verse is headed. With the hausa grounded in his ‘’Wakiya kiya, Maza Maza” and an interlude that curls into awkward Davido impersonation, it’s apparent even he (Mr Shaa) has no inkling where this entire song is headed. It’s tough to guess the motives of someone who commissions Bobrisky to wedge painfully out-of-rhythm skits in between a song about wanting a fake life.

Stream “Barbie” at your own peril

“Ifunanya can’t remember where she stole this bio from” Tweet at her @Iphynaya

Bobrisky is the Nigerian Millennial we deserve

“Into The Spider-Verse” reveals black lead, Miles Morales as your new friendly neighbourhood hero

Posted on by The Native

Sony just unveiled the first look at Miles Morales’ Spiderman with the trailer for “Spiderman: Into The Spider-Verse”. He was first introduced in 2011 in the “Ultimate Fallout” Marvel comic book series that dealt with the aftermath of the death of Peter Parker. The upcoming animated movie will reportedly follow that same story arch.

While Tom Holland’s Spiderman “Homecoming” left some Easter eggs with Donnie Glover’s mention of his unnamed nephew that “Lives In The Neighbourhood”, the black Spiderman is finally coming to reality and the trailer makes sure to accentuate that. For the trailer soundtrack, Vince Staples’ spits bars; “This Morning I Woke Up In The Fortress of Distortion/ I’m At War With My Emotions/ I’m Coming Home Now, I’m Coming Home” and Miles is shown sporting a pair of red and white Nike sneaker. All of these set the mood even before the black costumed spidey pulls back his mask to reveal Miles Morales as a black kid.

The trailer hints at some possible plot directions with shots of a concealed tombstone of someone whose initials are P P and mentions of familiar Marvel villains like Fisk and Spoiler. The animation is directed by Bob Persichetti, Peter Ramsey and Rodney Rothman while Miles Morales’ is voiced by Shameik Moore. The teaser ends with Miles Morales in a subway station asking another tight-wearing figure “Wait, so how many of us are there?” so we can expect to see more than one Spiderman when the movie is eventually released next christmas.

You can stream the trailer for “Spiderman: Into The Spider-Verse” below.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AQ4KKb-burs

Featured Image Credits: YouTube/Comicbook.com

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: Meet Kwaku Anansi; The mythological African god and the first Spiderman

Diamond Platnumz and Rick Ross team up for “Waka” video

Posted on by The Native

This year was definitely another bulging one for Afro Pop, and a successful one for Tanzanian artist Diamond Platnumz.  On the 8th of October this year, Diamond was honored with the Best Male Award (East Africa) at the AFRIMMA, and he currently is in partnership with Belaire Rose: a French wine brand, to promote unity through music.

 

Diamond took to Instagram to announce the official release of “Waka” video, a single off his “A boy from Tandale” album and true to his words about collaborating with artists from different countries, he tapped American rapper Rick Ross for this.

Directed by Moe Musa, “Waka” is a full bodied exploration of wealth and pleasure. For the right price, nearly anyone can land any feature and while it’s common for artists with more accolade to mock the transactional nature of guest artists [Think: Ice Prince & Nas ]  Rick goes all the way out to do the exact opposite. From hailing Diamond as a young king to stepping back from the spotlight.

 

Watch Diamond Platnumz & Rick Ross in “Waka” video below

 

“Ifunanya can’t remember where she stole this bio from” Tweet at her @Iphynaya

 

Here are some of the best music you should check out

Here are a few possibilities on what Tekno and Drake could be planning

Posted on by The Native

Over the weekend, Drake shared a picture of Tekno seated behind a mammoth studio deck on his Instagram live. The image carried no caption besides Tekno’s profile name, leaving the internet to speculate a million and one possibilities for why Tekno and the 6god are on each other’s radar. The fact? No one knows for sure yet, but here are a few possibilities.

https://www.instagram.com/p/Bcj47w-AYyQ/?taken-by=teknoofficial

They Are Trying To Cause Wahala.

Granted Drake has a reputation for experimenting with his pop sensibilities. And we won’t put it beyond Tekno’s music to find its way into American soundscape and eventually Drake’s acclaimed ear for spotting potential talent. But while Wizkid’s unexpected Drake feature was a reality, Tekno doesn’t have the same local clout that made the collaboration so favorable for both parties. And even then, their relationship hasn’t exactly been the smoothest given the initial claims that “Come Closer” wasn’t cleared by the rapper before its release and Drake’s absence from the video. Tekno and Wizkid have taken subliminals at each other on twitter in the past and this Drake shoutout, well, could mean anything to be honest.

Drake x Tekno x OVO?

Drake’s OVO Sound label has been a vehicle for new musicians, many of whom supposedly churn out hits for Drake before struggling to do the same for themselves. Tekno up to this point has enjoyed a successful run since “Pana” with his subsequent releases garnering fan’s support. Though the singer reportedly already has a deal with Sony, the details are still unspecified. An OVO deal would let him enjoy some of the benefits of OVO’s infrastructure: A Drake feature, song premieres on Drake’s Apple Music radio show, Drake retweets, and perhaps a slot on Drake’s tour.

A Great Night Turned Out Even Better

Honestly, this might turn out to be the most likely scenario if we don’t get any other sort of release beyond what we have so far: Instagram stories. The two met during Drake’s performance at the Art Basel in Miami on Friday, December 8 and took some pictures that look like they may have partied together. If nothing else adds up, a random meeting turned collaboration still suffices as a possible explanation for what to expect.

Watch the videos Tekno uploaded after meeting the 6god below.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gHf629y9nrU&feature=youtu.be

Featured Image Credits: Instagram/teknoofficial

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 Wizkid talk on his first Drake feature and the global take over of Afropop

Golden Globes 2018 Nominations is not the most diverse we’ve seen but some favorites are there

Posted on by The Native

The 2018 Golden Globes nominations are here, and as usual, there are pockets of outrage across the internet, over who got snubbed and who didn’t.  In fairness to everyone who feels slighted by the just released nominations,  last year was a better year for diversity in Film and TV with favorites like Marhashela Ali, Viola Davis and more bagging major awards for critically acclaimed roles.

https://www.instagram.com/p/Bcj8rFsHbIB/

Announced few hours ago by Alfre Woodard, alongside Garrett Hedlund, Kristen Bell, and Sharon Stone, the bulk of this year’s outrage has been directed at the lack of diversity for female directors. Elsewhere favorites like Denzel Washington, Daniel Kaluuya, Issa Rae and Spencer Octavia have gotten nods for their roles in Roman J. Israel Esq, Get Out, Insecure and Shape of Water respectively. The music nominations include songs by  Mariah Carey and Mary J. Blige

https://twitter.com/harleivy/status/940221590024916992

The 75th Golden Globes award show will take place on Sunday, January 7 at the Beverly Hilton in Beverly Hills, California. Hosted by comedian Seth Meyers.

Here’s the full list of nominees:

Movies

Best Picture — Drama

Call Me by Your Name

Dunkirk

The Post

The Shape of Water

Three Billboards Outside Ebbing, Missouri

Best Picture — Comedy or Musical

The Disaster Artist

Get Out

The Greatest Showman

I, Tonya

Lady Bird

Best Performance by an Actor in a Motion Picture — Drama

Timothée Chalamet, Call Me by Your Name

Daniel Day Lewis, Phantom Thread

Tom Hanks, The Post

Gary Oldman, The Darkest Hour

Denzel Washington, Roman J. Israel, Esq.

Best Performance by an Actress in a Motion Picture — Drama

Jessica Chastain, Molly’s Game

Sally Hawkins, The Shape of Water

Frances McDormand, Three Billboards Outside Ebbing, Missouri

Meryl Streep, The Post

Michelle Williams, All the Money in the World

Best Performance by an Actor in a Motion Picture — Musical or Comedy

Steve Carrell, Battle of the Sexes

Ansel Elgort, Baby Driver

James Franco, The Disaster Artist

Hugh Jackman, The Greatest Showman

Daniel Kaluuya, Get Out

Best Performance by an Actress in a Motion Picture — Musical or Comedy

Judi Dench, Victoria & Abdul

Margot Robbie, I, Tonya

Saoirse Ronan, Lady Bird

Emma Stone, Battle of the Sexes

Helen Mirren, The Leisure Seeker

Best Performance by an Actor in a Supporting Role in Any Motion Picture

Willem DaFoe, The Florida Project

Armie Hammer, Call Me by Your Name

Richard Jenkins, The Shape of Water

Christopher Plummer, All The Money in the World

Sam Rockwell, Three Billboards Outside Ebbing, Missouri

Best Performance by an Actress in a Supporting Role in Any Motion Picture

Mary J. Blige, Mudbound

Hong Chau, Downsizing

Alison Janney, I, Tonya

Laurie Metcalfe, Lady Bird

Octavia Spencer, The Shape of Water

Best Director — Motion Picture

Guillermo Del Toro, The Shape of Water

Martin McDonagh, Three Billboards Outside Ebbing, Missouri

Christopher Nolan, Dunkirk

Ridley Scott, All the Money in the World

Steven Spielberg, The Post

Best Screenplay — Motion Picture

Guillermo Del Toro and Vanessa Taylor, The Shape of Water

Greta Gerwig, Lady Bird

Liz Hannah and Josh Singer, The Post

Martin McDonagh, Three Billboards Outside Ebbing, Missouri

Aaron Sorkin, Molly’s Game

Best Motion Picture — Animated

The Boss Baby

The Breadwinner

Coco

Ferdinand

Loving Vincent

Best Picture — Foreign Language

A Fantastic Woman (Chile)

First They Killed My Father (Cambodia)

In the Fade (Germany/France)

Loveless (Russia)

The Square (Sweden, Germany, France)

Best Original Score — Motion Picture

Carter Burwell, Three Billboards outside Ebbing, Missouri

Alexandre Desplat, The Shape of Water

Jonny Greenwood, Phantom Thread

John Williams, The Post

Hans Zimmer, Dunkirk

Best Original Song — Motion Picture

“Home,” Ferdinand

“Mighty River,” Mudbound

“Remember Me,” Coco

“The Star,” The Star

“This Is Me,” The Greatest Showman

Television

Best Television Series — Drama

The Crown, Netflix

Game of Thrones, HBO

The Handmaid’s Tale, Hulu

Stranger Things, Netflix

This Is Us, NBC

Best Television Series — Comedy

Black-ish, ABC

The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel, Amazon

Master of None, Netflix

SMILF, Showtime

Will & Grace, NBC

Best Television Limited Series or Motion Picture Made for Television

Big Little Lies, HBO

Fargo, FX

Feud: Bette and Joan, FX

The Sinner, USA

Top of the Lake: China Girl, Sundance TV

Best Performance by an Actor in a Television Series — Drama

Jason Bateman, Ozark

Sterling K. Brown, This is Us

Freddie Highmore, The Good Doctor

Bob Odenkirk, Better Call Saul

Liev Schreiber, Ray Donovan

Best Performance by an Actress in a Television Series — Drama

Caitriona Balfe, Outlander

Claire Foy, The Crown

Maggie Gyllenhaal, The Deuce

Katherine Langford, 13 Reasons Why

Elisabeth Moss, The Handmaid’s Tale

Best Performance by an Actor in a Television Series — Comedy

Anthony Anderson, Blackish

Aziz Ansari, Master of None

Kevin Bacon, I Love Dick

William H. Macy, Shameless

Eric McCormack, Will & Grace

Best Performance by an Actress in a Television Series — Comedy

Pamela Adlon, Better Things

Alison Brie, GLOW

Rachel Brosnahan, Marvelous Mrs. Maisel

Issa Rae, Insecure

Frankie Shaw, SMILF

“Ifunanya can’t remember where she stole this bio from” Tweet at her @Iphynaya

 

Daniel Kaluuya , Nnamdi Asomugha among 2018 Film Independent Spirit Award nominees

Here are the top-billed concerts to look forward to this December

Posted on by The Native

The music scene is never more active in Lagos than at the end of the year. This is in part because IJGBs come back with foreign currencies to dole on concert tickets and home-based Nigerians who have otherwise had a good year are desperately looking to unwind. This year however, there seems to have been a rise in the number of independent artists who are looking to headline their own concerts. Though some of the artists on this list have not announced an official date for the shows, they have all shown interests in hosting concerts in Lagos.

Wizkid

Fans may have come after Wizkid for infamously telling BBC that he charges concert goers less than a dollar for his show, but the Starboy’s upcoming December concert may ring closer to the truth. While the price tag for tickets has not been announced, Wizkid has revealed his availability for the 24th of December saying, he’ll do “Anything The Fans Want” on the day. This will be reparations for two Lagos shows the Starboy cancelled last year due to fatigue and exhaustion.

Davido

For Davido, December 27th will mark his first headline show in Lagos in 5 years. Coming off his “30 Billion World Tour” where he touched cities in United States, Denmark, Germany, Davido plans to close out the tour at Eko Hotel during the festive season. There are currently no details on ticket pricing but NATIVE will keep you updated on anything we hear.

Burna Boy

https://www.instagram.com/p/Ba9tRG8HpX5/?hl=en&taken-by=burnaboygram

Hoping to re-enact the energy of his concert at the Eventim Apollo, Hammersmith in London last year, the “Burna Boy Show” will hold at Balmoral Convention Centre of the Federal Palace Hotel, in Lagos this December. People who were at “NATIVELAND” last year will remember the unreal presence of Burna Boy on stage, the “Burna Boy Show” will probably bring all of that and more on the scheduled date of the 17th of next month.

 

Maleek Berry

No date announced yet for Maleek Berry. But odds are really high that this concert will happen. Unless Maleek Berry wants to have a lot of angry fans on his hands.

Nonso Amadi

Following Nonso’s explosive success on both international and local airwaves this year, it’s no surprise that the London based  artist wishes to cap it all off with a live concert he calls “Homecoming”  set to go off at the Federal Palace Hotel in Lagos on the 19th of December.

Maryorkun

Mayorkun continues to widen his fan base and connect to his core demographic (millenials), with his just concluded University Tour which saw him perform at over 30 schools in Nigeria. To mark the end of  this successful tour, The Davido Music Worldwide artist is going to headline his first ever live concert titled “The Mayor Of Lagos”  on the 14th of December, going down in Hardrock Cafe.

Olamide

Though Olamide hasn’t made any official statement about an “OLIC 4” taking place, over the past 3 years, the rapper’s annual live in concert has become one of the most anticipated entertainment event of the year. If there’ll be an OLIC 4 this year, it is expected that Olamide’s team will unveil all the details in the coming weeks.

Mr Eazi

https://twitter.com/mreazi/status/934897734783504384?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw

The Life is Eazi concert continues with a Detty Rave.  This December at Sango Ota, Lagos, and Harrow Park , Abuja, Mr Eazi will be thrilling fans with his new hits on the 2nd and 9th respectively. You’re expected to get your tickets and show up with your detty moves.

 

Falz The Bahd Guy

https://www.instagram.com/p/Bb4nzYbhLoX/

Tagged “The Falz Experience”, rumors have it, this concert will be more than your average concert. As Falz is expected to entertain the audience with his triple personalities  (Falz The Bahd Guy, Folarin The Lawyer and Taju The  Comedian). Unveiling one alter ego at a time. Kinda like a story telling session with Maimouna Jallow, but even better with lined up performances from Davido, Simi, Olamide, Tekno, Reekado Banks, Ajebutter 22. Prior to this concert, Falz will be making an appearance on The Hennessy Artistry Concert which will be going live on the 2nd of December at the Eko Hotel and Suites. That’s where this concert will be holding too. Tickets are available here

AjeButter

Come December 16, Akitoye Balogun aka AjeButter will be treating fans to a Concert and Food Festival,  at Harbour Point, Victoria Island, Lagos. In celebration of his “What happens In Lagos” album.  Expected to perform at this concert  are seasoned artists the like of MI, Simi, Lady Donli, Falz and a lot more. Follow the conversation on twitter with #WHIL17, and get your tickets here

*We will keep this list updated as more dates are announced.

“Ifunaya is too queer to live, too rare to die” Tweet at her @Iphynaya

ICYMI: Drake, Chance The Rapper and why we need to talk about touring in African music

ThisIsAT drops the visuals to “Dey Alright”

Posted on by The Native

ThisIsAt has been teasing via social media for a while, the visuals to one of her studio projects, pushing back the release date at some point.  Last week, the rapper took to twitter to officially announce the release of her “Dey Alright” video and it’s totally worth the wait.

In what looks like her follow up single after “Imagination”, AT is back once again, serving looks, word play and attitude, all with so little effort. The video squeezes in plenty of free-spirited and unapologetic vibes during the two minutes treatment. Shot in Lagos, directed by PopsiQL and the artist herself,“Dey Alright” embodies the art of connecting with one’s inner self and simply being at peace, knowing that everything will be alright in the end.

Sonically the song refuses to flow in the direction you think or want it to; there’s no build-up, no climax. Only thing going on is a modest, sustained vibrato and a simple chord progression. It’s repetitive, like a tribute to Cardi B’s style.

Other highlights in the video include waterfronts, puffs of smoke (due diligence to the holiday of course) and the Nigerian rapper flexing like the only girl in the world . Add cutting snaps of abstract objects and you’ve got the recipe of a visual that’s simple and yet so cool.

 

Watch “Dey Alright” below

“Ifunanya can’t remember where she stole this bio from” Tweet at her @Iphynaya

 

Watch AT look cool as fuck in new video

Odunsi’s “In The Morning” is a toe-tapping ballad to one-night stands

Posted on by The Native

Writing romance-themed dance music started sometime in the medieval period, most likely by some noble soul who wanted to ruin parties or something. Since then, we’ve had many awful and universally loved confessional songs people can’t help but dance off-rhythm to. Odunsi’s latest release, “In The Morning”, is just the latest in the endless list of jams riding the groovy wave while detailing dramatic relationships. However, his decibel-based entertainment is just the right fit for parties as is captured in the Andy Madjitey directed video.

https://www.instagram.com/p/Bcb83ReBKN8/?taken-by=odunsitheengine

Like the high of midnight hitting with the same heat of midday sun, Odunsi’s “In The Morning” is wistful without being saccharine. While he gives a play-by-play run-down of how he ended up with what seems like a one-night stand, the catchy Caribbean influenced beat Chkwdze and Higomusic produce with piano baselines, clap samples, guitar riffs, synths, and drums are charming. He admits pure carnal urges; “I’m Trying To Get You In The Meanest Ways” that give the impression that he’s trying to get down and freaky with the sort of nasty things that leave the sheets sticky—a sentiment frequently shared on the dancefloors at parties.

The Andy Madjitey directed video for “In The Morning” is set at a party where Odunsi is seen having a good time before catching the eye of a love interest and eventually making contact. Though the lyrics seem passive enough and perfect for clubbing, the video captures the more disturbing undertone. Opening with Odunsi looking dejected on the floor with a bottle by his side and following that with a rewind logo that ushers in the partying, Odunsi seems to have gotten what he wanted but isn’t satisfied or overly ecstatic about it.

Taken together, “In The Morning” is lighthearted with just enough of context to make it stick. A perfectly competent formula for pop music; A song to turn up to at the club, sing at the top of your lungs in the shower and quietly lip sync on your way to work.

Watch the video for “In The Morning” below.

Featured Image Credits: YouTube/OdunsiTheEngineVEVO

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: Watch Odunsi’s video debut, “Desire”

DJ Neptune taps RunTown for “Why”, a newly released potential club smash

Posted on by The Native

 

https://www.instagram.com/p/BcZ4kCtlaq7/?hl=en&taken-by=deejayneptune

While his recent releases haven’t enjoyed the most favourable public reach, his latest release, the video for “Why” featuring Runtown might just scratch his mainstream itch. And with Runtown’s recent success and the sappy love narrative of the single, he might have a club banger on his hands.

Del’B produces the piano-led beat with mellow club inclined drums which Runtown hops on to sing an ode to his lover. Promising “Anything For (His) Baby/ Anything For (His) Lover”, his charm is graceful carrying on to his performance in the video for “Why”. Directed by Tshisz Nelson, the video is shot in the UK where Runtown and DJ Neptune are cool accompanied by models, dancers and a really cool car.

Watch the video for “Why” below.

Featured Image Credits: YouTube/DJNeptuneVEVO

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: Watch Runtown’s video for “For Life” here

Burna Boy drops “Koni Baje”, a spiritual new single for the closing year

Posted on by The Native

https://www.instagram.com/p/Bcb6lTeHL76/

If Burna boy’s most recent single “Streets Of Africa”  was a celebratory street homage, this new offering has him going off the rail. Produced by Pro2Jay, everything about “Koni Baje”, has Burna Boy, actively at the beginning and end: the traditional drums dotting the tracks, the flawless delivery, even Burna’s confidence is apparent in the lyrics.  From declaring he’s an unstoppable force, to preaching about fake friends. “When the money come high, people plenty gan, when the money no dey, dem no dey look my face”.

In addition to “Koni Baje” playing like a tribute to his career, and a prayer for himself, it highlights Burna’s flexibility as an artist. Almost like, with a flip of the switch, he can go full on Juju mode but in the style of none before him. Fans of Burna Boy that gravitate towards uncluttered offerings like “Soke” will nestle up to “Koni Baje”.

Stream “Koni Baje” via Apple Music below

“Ifunanya can’t remember where she stole this bio from” Tweet at her @Iphynaya

 

Juls and Burna Boy are animated in new video for “Gwarn”

Listen to Justin Konk channel vintage Terry G on “Go Down”

Posted on by The Native

With all the pon-pon music out there and the banku inspired drowsy beats that seem to have overwhelmed the airways, it’s easy to forget that there used to be a time when all we cared for as Nigerians was a heavy thumping bass and rapid fire dancefloor ready lyrics. This was the era that artists like Terry G and Stereoman Ekwe tapped into, a sort of primal tribal influence that got us on our feet and dancing before we could even parse what was being said. That kind of urgency in music has been in scarce supply and it is somewhat nostalgic to see a contemporary artist like Justin Konk dig in those wells for inspiration.

The afropop singer’s new single “Go Down” has its entire soul tied to a eclectic tribal drum loop that mimics traditional oghene music. The staccato beat is so classic Terry G that it doesn’t register that you’re listening to a throwback until the more contemporary synth melodies interspersed with athletic electric guitar riff is layered onto the percussions, driven by Konk’s urgent voice. A pure dance rave, through and through, Konk weaves a fascinating mix of sung-rap lyrics, switching between pidgin and yoruba, his delivery made even more distinctive by what you realise at the end of the song is a distinctive lisp.

“Go Down” might not get the rabid conversations that follow alternative underground music makers but Justin Konk’s gamble looks like it may pay off. The song will definitely resonate on a subconscious level with former fans of a more urgent, more Nigerian afro-pop sound.

Stream “Go Down” below

Edwin eats his rice and cabbages. Tweet at him@edgothboy

A decade-long mystery about the instrumentals for Terry G’s “Free Madness” has been solved

Best New Music: Maka blesses us with a near perfect love song on “Before Christmas”

Posted on by The Native

Christmas time, a time for the celebration of family and community and good will and cheer. Every artist worth their salt knows that there is a certain magic to Christmas that can be harnessed in the right kind of song, a magic that is self perpetuating and all powerful. Musical greats like Boney M and Mariah Carey know all too well the power of a well crafted Christmas song and how it can remain in the hearts of listeners long after it was initially released. We suspect that this was part of the motivation that moved Afro-soul singer Maka to step into the fray and try out on a Christmas themed song for size.

Partnering with one of my personal favourite producers BigFoot, Maka wrote and co-produced “Before Christmas”, her own take on the myriad of romantic comedies set around a series of hi-jinks that lead a hapless single to her perfect soul mate. “Before Christmas” is heavily influenced by the best of 90’s reggae subculture Lover’s rock, with the distinctive reggae progressions slowed down and stretched out to mimic balladry and interspersed with strategic drum loops. Maka and Bigfoot throw in some heavy synths and garnish the heavy bass with some jazz horns, the result a reggae-jazz fusion that gets your shoulders shimmying after the first few notes.

But the real magic of “Before Christmas” is Maka herself. She is effervescent, her voice filled with the flush of new love and underpinned with strains of self doubt. She weaves traditional christmas tropes and imagery so effortlessly into a universal story about falling in love with a stranger and wondering if that first rush of emotion will ebb away or build into something more. Maka conjures darkly lit hallways, stolen kisses under the mistletoe while the family watches a Christmas movie.

If your Christmas playlist needs a boost. This is definitely the song to do it.

Listen to “Before Christmas” here.

 

Reekado Banks recycles some of your favourite Afropop hooks for “Like”

Posted on by The Native

Somewhere between rehearsing to perform at The Wedding Party Premiere, and prepping to host a ThankYou concert in December, Reekado Banks released a new song called “Like” in celebration of his 24th Birthday on the 6th of December. Following in the footsteps of Falz’ [27], this track features Mavin’s first lady Tiwa Savage and Fiokee.

https://www.instagram.com/p/BcWqHNSFo2u/

Because pop music relies on radio-programming to stick, the sound itself is occasionally set on repurposing familiar compositions. On “Like“, Reekado Banks lifts a couple vocal refrains from some of the biggest songs that have defined the year, beginning with Tekno’s “GO”, Wizkid’s “Manya”, Davido’s “FIA”, Tiwa Savage’s “Malo” and his very own “Easy (Jeje)”, to create something new. The sonic mixing of “Like” plays as you would expect to hear from a DJ or producer who’s perfected this craft. And if you’ve ever wondered what a Davido, Tekno, Wizkid and Tiwa Savage joint would sound like, then this birthday gift from Reekado Banks, is definitely for you.

Listen to “Like” below

“Ifunanya can’t remember where she stole this bio from” Tweet at her @Iphynaya

Watch Tiwa and Wizkid’s video for “Ma lo”

6 videos you need to see this week

Posted on by The Native

Joyner Lucas – I’m Not Racist

Though Joyner Lucas’ sophomore album, 508-507-2209 has a lot of gems in it, it didn’t do too well commercially when it was released earlier this year. However, his latest video release, “I’m Not Racist” has gotten a lot of media attention and could potentially lift him to acclaim. But the publicity hasn’t been all good; His biggest criticism is for his late contributing to the racial conversation. That, however, shouldn’t anything away from the quality of the single that the rapper taking both sides of the argument; White and black. The video also follows this narrative as his lyrics are brought to life and dramatised to accentuate his aggressive tone and his message of peace with the black guy and white guy hugging at the end of the video

Straffitti – Zero Safety 

Since debuting with Vanilla Sky EP earlier this year, Straffitti has continued crafting his druggy trap sound by putting out new music with relative consistency. His latest release, “Zero Safety” is satisfyingly clean, echoing the bright, shiny flatness of the current digital landscape. Shot by Ifeme C.S and edited by Straff, “Zero Safety” is the rapper’s third official music video since his debut with “Cherry Game Girl”  in March. Straff’s penchant for surreal visuals seen in all his previously released video is sustained by making sure nearly every scene is in some trippy sort of colour or warped shapes.

Meek Mill – Fall Thru

Meek Mill’s Wins & Losses album cautiously addressed his setbacks by giving more perspective of his life and what he actually considers wins and losses. “Fall Thru”‘s slather on Auto-Tune and the pseudo-romantic narrative seems to be focusing on his wins—never mind the possibility of a reference to Drake’s “Come Thru”. However, in the light of his recent legal drama, the video for “Fall Thru” shows Meek chilling with his love interest and his friends almost seems sad, still this a welcome distraction from his current rather unjust situation.

Adekunle Gold – Money

Released back in October, Adekunle Gold’s “Money” seemed primed to replicate the success of “Pick Up” with the similar pseudo-religious subtext. Fuse’s production on the Afropop single incorporates some foreign samples but Adekunle Gold retains his familiar local melodies with his fusion of English and indigenous Yoruba lyrics. Ani James directs the video and runs with the “Money” title as he recreates the images on the Nigerian currency for the fun music video. While Adekunle Gold begs for money to come towards him in the lyrics the video finds him in a room filled with so much money, the legal tender merely serves as an ornament.

Lil Uzi Vert – The Way Life Goes Remix Feat. Nicki Minaj

Directed by DAPS, the video for Uzi Vert’s “The Way Life Goes” gets eerie very quickly. But Uzi’s reputation for satanic symbolism in his videos cushions the shock effect as his lyrics sustains his troubled narrative singing “I Know It Hurts Sometimes, But You’ll Get Over It.” Nicki Minaj’s verse on the remix is, however, more lighthearted finding new ways to remind listeners her coochie is better than everybody’s. Following the song’s premise, the video ends with Uzi being choked to death and buried by a femme fatale.

Flavour – Chimamanda

“Chimamanda” is among the more spiritually conscious tracks on the album as it inspires a music video with a few biblical imageries—including some retro amateurish digital lightning and thunder sound effects. Flavour’s latest release, the videos for “Chimamanda” extends the rollout of what is starting to look more and more like a visual album. The 17-track Ijale the Traveler album already has 8 released videos and with their sparse releases, what’s to say there won’t be more?

Featured Image Credits: YouTube/Official Flavour

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: Watch the video for Flavour’s warm-hearted ballad on “Virteous Woman”

D’banj has a message for everyone in his “As I Dey Go” music video

Posted on by The Native

Despite the excitement that followed his “It’s Not A Lie” debut for the year featuring Wande Coal and Harry Songs, D’banj’s King Don Come album wasn’t among the more talked about albums this year. Coming from someone who was once hailed as the ‘African Michael Jackson’, the album’s promotion left a lot to be desired; Particularly given the number of potential sleeper hits chocked into the album as proof the Kokomaster is still every bit an entertainer.

https://www.instagram.com/p/BcZFxT_FKnK/?taken-by=iambangalee

Though “As I Dey Go” isn’t one of the more memorable tracks from the 12-track offering, that doesn’t mean the song should be forgotten; in fact, it should be remembered for highlighting the cohesively satisfying structure of the tracklist. Positioned just after “El Chapo” which some have criticized for promoting the violent lifestyle of a drug dealer, “As I Dey Go”‘s blessed and unbothered narrative could be seen as a response to the critics.

Singing “If They Like, Make Them Do Anyhow/ I Go Still Make My Money” over the Tefa and Cheeky Chizzy produced mid-tempo beat with high-life guitar riffs, horns, rattling samples and synths, D’banj shows his confidence hasn’t wavered at all. And Matt Maxx’s directs the video with all the right elements to depict his superstar; A mansion, a flashy car, chains and glossy filters. But the videos also tries to enunciate some of the more hidden message the song carries.

Following the story of a man who despite being late for a job interview offers to help a lady whose car broke down by the road, we learn that sometimes what seems like a stupid decision could turn out to be the right one when the video eventually reveals the helpless lady as his soon-to-be employer.

You can watch the video for “As I Dey Go” below.

Featured Image Credits: Instagram/iambangalee

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: Check out all the essentials from D’banj’s latest album, ‘King Don Come’

Vector’s “Gunshots” sheds some light on the recent bleakness in Nigeria

Posted on by The Native

Judging from just the title and timing of it’s release, Vector’s latest release, “Gunshots”, came with a readymade mantra and mission: To decry the government’s nonchalance about the suffering in the society, and he’s hellbent on spreading the word. The recent uproar on social media against slave trade in Libya and SARS’ over-policing of youths has inspired the rapper to spit some conscious bars.

https://www.instagram.com/p/BcS2IJdBiuW/?taken-by=vectorthaviper

Samklef produces the instrumentals for “Gunshots” with mellow drums and melancholy percussions that sets the mood for Vector’s touching and sentimental themes. He sings a sappy hook already highlighting the matter at hand before diving into it on the two verses. The socially conscious single laments the unfair state of the society and takes a couple shots at the government and the police. But there are layers of introspection in there with lines like “I Know I’ve Not Been Perfect”.

Vector’s argument that, “You Wouldn’t Seek Food If You Had It”, might be questionable, but it’s easy to understand where it’s coming from. Rapping that “Let He Who Is Without Sin Cast The First Stone”, his sympathy for those subject to living a life of crime is apparent.

“Gunshots” is a tribute to the common man’s suffering but doesn’t actually contribute to the conversation. You can stream it below.

Featured Image Credits: Instagram/vectorthaviper

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 Vector and Jesse Jagz’s come for competition on “Shook Ones” freestyle

Ilaye’s “Shut It Down” is a blissful deep-soul ballad

Posted on by The Native

Many people have the misconception that introversion is about being antisocial, when in fact, it’s just a preference for quiet. It’s not so much a matter of being too shy to enjoy a night out with friends as it is needing a break from humans and the drama of their lives. This quality time alone in retreat can work magic and leave introverts feeling recharged and ready to go out to rejoin the world—and possibly even socialize. After debuting with “Castle Wall” in August, Ilaye’s sophomore release, “Shut It Down” shares this sentiment as she performs a deep-soul anthem for staying indoors with music as the perfect company.

https://www.instagram.com/p/BcVDSNCHweT/?taken-by=_ilaye_

From the opening line, “It’s A Cold Cold Word”, Ilaye gives all the backstory required to make her angst towards the outdoors relatable. But what’s even more convincing is the palpable melancholy in her subdued vocals. Atta Lenell Otigba, however, produces decidedly string led harmonies that lead her out of the cloudy and into blue with the soaring guitar riffs. You can almost hear her find her voice.

The more introspective narrative of the second verse lifts “Shut It Down” beyond a mere ode to music and solitude. Singing “I’ll Nurse My Wounds, Adjust My Crown/ And Maybe After That, I’ll Step Out”, she makes a strong argument for every introverts’ need for a safe and comfortable space while also establishing her ability to replicate the warm and fuzzy indoor feels through her music.

You can stream Ilaye’s “Shut It Down” below.

https://soundcloud.com/user-508899013/ilaye

Featured Image Credits: Instagram/_ilaye_

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: Fears and hopes hold a radiant gleam on Ilaye’s debut, “Castle Wall”

ICYMI: Wizkid has a feature on Jeezy’s upcoming album “Pressure”

Posted on by The Native

While we are still reveling in Wizkid’s win over at the MOBO Awards last week. It appears there are no signs of his slowing down from this dynamic ascent to the top. Recently, American rapper Jeezy , took to twitter to unveil his “Pressure” track list. It features a collaboration with Kendrick Lamar and J Cole ,Puff Daddy, 2 Chainz, Tory Lanez,  Kodak Black and the original Starboy sits pretty on track 11.

People might be tempted to say Wizkid is trying so hard to push and live up to this “Mr International” acclaim, but that argument is invalid, as this isn’t his first time, working in the studio with Jeezy.  [peep the date]

The album is set to drop on the 15th of December. Prior to this,  two tracks off this album (“Bottles Up” with Puff Daddy and “Cold Summer” with Tee Grizzley) have already been served-up satiate fans.

Pre-order the album here and check out the full list below.

 

“Ifunanya can’t remember where she stole this bio from” Tweet at her @Iphynaya

Here’s the full list of 2017 MOBO Awards winners