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

Cassper Nyovest’s concert becomes the third most attended at the FNB Stadium.

Posted on by The Native

Cassper Nyovest knew it would be hard to fill up First National Bank Stadium (thus the heavy campaign around the concert), Soweto, but never thought it would be impossible.

Over the weekend, the rapper performed at a sold-out show With a capacity a little below 95,000, The FNB stadium has for the past seven years hosted most of America’s music firebrands, the likes of Rihanna, Justin Bieber, One Direction, Bon Jovi. As there is always an extra gloating when Africans artists perform feats only presumed capable by bigger artists, the internet is abuzz Cassper Nyovest’s achievement, revelling in the fact that his, is the third most attended concert of the decade. 

However, for the 28 year old musician , this feat goes deeper than just another jewel in his crown, in his words

“I think as South Africans we grew up in a system thinking we were second best and not worthy. The reason I do these shows is to change the mind of an African kid.”

https://www.instagram.com/p/BcPk7wxF1Fx/?hl=en&taken-by=casspernyovest

Cassper Nyovest’s concert at the FNB is the rapper’s second sold-out performance at a major venue. Nearly two years ago, the rapper sold-out TicketPro’s Dome in Johannesburg and performed to a staggering 20,000 people. His recent feat does not only outdo his last campaign at filling up a venue, it trumps it by a mile and half.

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

MOBO Awards: It’s a win for both Davido and Wizkid

Runtown updates “Energy” with a stylish new video

Posted on by The Native

Around this time last year, Runtown was on the verge of being ushered into the upper echelon of Nigerian pop music sensibilities off the massive success of his “Mad Over You” single. Till date, many still regard it as his biggest hit but in a bid to hold that top spot, he has put out subsequent releases; “For Life” and more recently, “Energy”. Just as the title suggests, “Energy” shows off the pep in Runtown’s step since last year’s success.

https://www.instagram.com/p/BcUecsZhAsJ/?taken-by=runtown

The laid-back mood has him warding off negative vibes as he sings “No Man Can Take My Joy Away” over the mellow guitar led beat Del’B produces. The video which is directed by Isaac Yowman also emphasises this motif with the slow-motion shots and all round relaxed texture. The narrative also remains pain and simple as Runtown performs the song without any complicated scenes.

The video for “Energy” is set on a sunny day, perfect for Runtown and his love interest to take a drive in his convertible. Birds-eye shots follow them through the open road till they eventually stop and we get a more closeup view of the lovers in their dark shades. And as the sun sets, Runtown lights up a blunt before he’s seen at a party where models dance and rounds are served—establishing the lightweight and swinging mood of the single expected to enjoy a lot of circulation in the coming weeks.

You can stream Runtown’s video for “Energy” in 4K below.

Featured Image Credits: YouTube/Runtown

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 Runtown channel 6god moxie for “Energy” single

Here is some context for clarity on Kiss Daniel’s label troubles

Posted on by The Native

Save for his new single,“No Do”, Kiss Daniel has been relatively silent about his next moves since his unilateral exit from his record deal with G-Worldwide. There are many connotations to an artist going rogue on a contract with a label in this part of the world, and many also silently waited for the legal blowback and media whirlwind that will follow the saga that unfolds. As if on cue, through its legal team, Camhill Partners, G-Worldwide released a statement expatiating on Daniel’s exit.

“Another label, another chain for 7 more years”

– Kiss Daniel, “Another Day”, New Era (2016)

According to the legal statement, Kiss Daniel is illegally walking out on a 7-year agreement, a contract he had entered into with the G-Worldwide in 2013. While social media reports have re-animated the narrative as the typical case of a label suing an artist for cancelling out on a contract, provisions of the now-voided agreement merely prevents Kiss Daniel from using the name ‘Kiss Daniel’, and from performing and distributing music he recorded while he was under the label’s banner. This means that songs from Kiss Daniel’s 2016 debut, New Era and a soon-to-be-released sophomore project, Evolution are no longer his intellectual property to do as he pleases.

But all is not gloomy for the man who gave us “Sofa”and “Yeba”, two smash-hits from earlier in the year. In a sense, this new development explains why Kiss Daniel released his new single “No Do” under the moniker ‘Kiss Daniel and Flyboi I.N.C’, a smart move to avoid any further breach of contract while the Federal High Court finalises its judgement on the case.

Interestingly, this also means Kiss Daniel’s new single is within the legal purview of what he can do as an independent artist. While we wait for a final judgement or resolution, It’s safe to say we won’t stop hearing new music from Kiss Daniel despite his on-going legal troubles.

This is a developing story.

Toye is the Team lead at Native Nigeria. Tweet at him @ToyeSokunbi

Kiss Daniel launches Flyboy I.N.C label and debuts with new single, “No Do”

ShowDemCamp is effortlessly cool in this new video

Posted on by The Native

Despite the increasing global appeal for Afropop, Showdemcamp remains one of the few relevant Nigerian hip-hop groups that remind us of Afropop’s humbler bass-leaning origins from the days of Trybesmen and Ruff Rugged and Raw amongst others. Following the release of their second studio project ‘Palm Wine Music 1.0″ and an accompanying video for “Up To You”, Showdemcamp recently took to Instagram to announce a new video. This time for “What You Want”

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

There are so many music videos of people wilding out or throwing crazy parties while singing about love, but because the whole point of this one is to escape the debauchery, the clip doesn’t feel like it’s trying too hard to be cool which makes it even cooler.

Directed by King Davies, and featuring Tomi Thomas, “What You Want” is your typical laid back video of friends, actually three friends, hanging out in a deserted park, as the camera alternates between two of them singing in a laid back manner about love.  Their choreography is free of constraint, and when Davies sings “I’ve been told the skies don’t move, girl gimme time, I’ll move it for you”  with Tomi Thomas chorusing in agreement without much ado, you’re being reminded that, it is still possible for nature to bend to will.

“Watch “What You Want” below

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

Find out how “Up 2 You” made it to our Best New Music

La Femme Foundation to hold first ever SlutWalk in Lagos

Posted on by The Native

The stigmatisation of women, is ever-present phenomenon in the annals of a  patriarchal world that relies on the culture of silence to uphold and maintain it. To publicly address some of that narrative, La Femme Foundation is choosing to unify people against violence in Nigeria, with a peace march campaign tagged “SlutWalk” an acronym for “Strong Ladies United”.

Taking it’s cue from Slut Walk International: a global peace protest with an aim of dismantling the system of female oppression, the walk is dated for 17th of December in Lekki, Lagos. La Femme will alongside women and men from all works of life, take a walk against the epidemic of violence and slut shaming of women. Create enlightenment among youth on the issue of rape, domestic violence educating them on the power of their voices.

Preceding the SlutWalk is a mini concert with some of Nigeria’s soul & funk artists bringing to stage their art, in support of this movement.  As part of their campaign the La Femme team has curated a documentation of experiences, shared by victims of violence, on what it really means to be Female in Nigeria. In addition to needing more sponsors and staying true to the theme, proceeds from this event will be donated towards helping the Girl Child Education Initiative.

Listen to Deena Ade throw further light on what the Slut Walk is about below.

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

Here’s Tiwa’s take on the issue of Gender Equality

Essentials: Amaarae’s debut, ‘Passionfruit Summer’, is a plush dreamy-eyed project

Posted on by The Native

Amaa rae’s electronic production and the icy sensuality of her vocals fuses atmospheric R&B with lush bubble-gum pop. Her debut project, Passionfruit Summer, makes a compelling case for this era in her artistry. On the project, the singer performs dreamy and romantic sets that could very easily put her at the centre neo-R&B conversations in Africa.

https://www.instagram.com/p/BcE_pwBjI1i/?taken-by=amaarae

Most of the tracks on Passionfruit Summer are as mellow as they are melodic. Amaarae’s woes circle around getting faded, relationship problems or both. Though these seem like typically played-out themes, Amaarae’s vocals come with a definite freshness to reivent these concepts.

On Opening track, “Sunday” featuring Fingers, Amaarae casts her worries—presumably relationship related—into the wind. The tropical sounding harmonies Dex Kwasi produces, accentuates the relaxing mood and this sentiment carries on right into the next track, “Catching a Wav”, which he also produces with Amaarae. This time, a sexual tinge hovers across the track with Amaarae singing, “Don’t Bring No Sand To The Beach, Just You And Your Body”.

Amaarae’s broad appeal is unmistakable, hinged on soothing and hypnotic melodies. On “Happy Mistakes” however, an intimate narrative and luminous voice lights up the interpolation of synths and acoustic instrumentals. Not only does she sing masterfully, but her lyrics stand out as well as she revamps a line from D’banj’s “Oliver Twist” to describe how emotional she gets about her love interest.

MikeMillzOnEm produced “Fluid” sticks to the ambient atmospheric sound but Amaarae’s singing takes a more upbeat pace that beckons listeners to a dance floor of her making. The 90’s pop guitars and synths give the song a bubblegum pop feel as it builds in unexpected ways, but when it explodes, it’s gratifying.

The EP closes with the title track, “Passionfruit Summer” featuring SUTRA. Their collaboration helps show off their individual vocal range, but also underlines Alt-R&B’s tendency for trippiness. The never-ending string of ambient sounds and synths may get monotonous for any other project, but the short playtime plus Amaarae’s enchanting vocals ensure that none of the 6 tracks is skippable.

Stream Passionfruit Summer below.

Featured Image Credits: Instagram/amaarae

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 AylØ’s “Woah” featuring Amaarae

Hear MI and Dice Ailes let off some steam on their new single, “Your Father”

Posted on by The Native

We’ve finally reached the last month of the year. And while there are a few things to be pleased about—like knowing Nativeland festival is only a few weeks away—there’s no denying that there are more reasons to be upset than not. And MI and Dice Ailes’s aren’t holding back as they channel their passionate sides to rant on their latest single, “Your Father”.

https://www.instagram.com/p/BcLADV3HSN1/?taken-by=mi_abaga

Ckay produces the taunting chopped and screwed synths that pulsate over blaring drums to infuse some energy. Dice builds on the intensity with his convincing melody and rap flow that are reminiscent of Drake’s verse on “Versace” remix. He takes the hook and verse before MI takes the last verse serving oh so familiar bars proclaiming himself the pope of hip-hop in Nigeria.

While Dice Ailes comes for haters, corrupt lecturers, the government and even the police, the line “I Swear I No Fear, Baba God Be My Father” hints at where his confidence lies. MI, on the other hand, has no trouble shading other rappers as he reminds everyone how long he has remained relevant in the game. You’ll think he already got that out of his system after “You Rappers Should Fix Up Your Lives”, but MI continues to lean on his past legacy rather than focus on building something new on his new single. We can only hope he gets it all out before the much-anticipated album is finally released.

Whatever you may be pissed off about—the government, your unfaithful ex or your neighbours fucking generator noise, listen to MI and Dice Ailes’ new single, “Your Father” below to help set the mood.

Featured Image Credits: Instagram/mi_abaga

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 MI’s “You Rappers Should Fix Up Your Lives”

Watch Yung6ix’ video for “Gbe Seyin” featuring Niniola

Posted on by The Native

Since Yung6ix debuted into the music industry with his mixtape “Green Light Green”, he has gone on to garner quite a portfolio, including collaborations with notable firebrands. Recently he celebrated the official release of his latest album “High Star”.  Prior to this , he had dished out some singles off this project and one of them was “Gbe Seyin” featuring Niniola.

https://www.instagram.com/p/Bb2n2CLD0wo/

In the short time, Niniola has spent in the industry, she has become exceptionally aware of the way club tracks work best when tuned to the head and the heart. Her debut album, “This Is Me”, is currently a hallmark of the genre. On Yung6ix’s “Gbe Seyin”, she further proved herself as an extraordinary ear, guiding him to push further into uncharted, futuristic territory.

“Gbe Seyin” is a document of the rudiments of flirting and the freeing nature of new love. Produced by Hycienth and directed by Unlimited LA, this club jam is one that hovers in the lustrous realm between jazz n’ blues and drum & bass.

Watch “Gbe Seyin” below

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

Niniola distills her sound on debut album

Krizbeatz drops debut album “Afro Dance Music” : Listen.

Posted on by The Native

There are two sides to Krizbeats as we understand him now. The first is the music producer, a powerful presence that constructs and conjures magical sounds using only a guitar baseline, piano synths and punctuated drum sounds. The second is the recording artist, that has just begun to take shape in the world’s eye. His recently released debut album “Afro Dance Music” reveals Krizbeatz’ plans of extending his artistry and carving his own niche in the music industry.

https://www.instagram.com/p/BcFTtz8Apse/

Aptly named after the genre it wholly embodies, “Afro Dance Music” is exactly the sort of project one would expect from someone of Krizbeatz’ calbre. Complete with his signature synths and instrumentation, it recruits some of the industry’s contemporary acts -Sauti Sol, Emma Nyra, Lil Kesh, Niniola. It also include his previously released tracks “Erima”, “911”, “Give Them”.

“ADM” is a tour de force, a reminder that no matter how often people want artists to reinvent themselves, there are people like Krizbeatz who are determined to stay true to their original sound.

Stream “Afro Dance Music” on iTunes below

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

Listen to Krizbeats “911” featuring Mama Africa and Harmonize

Genio Bambino, Fasina and Tomi Thomas spin murky tales of love on “Shame”

Posted on by The Native

Being in love could be magical; The sky’s a more vivid shade of blue, birds chirping and your steps are so buoyant you might as well be walking on sunshine. Unfortunately, nothing lasts forever and all good things must eventually end one way or another. Though Genio Bambino’s latest song isn’t called “Time of Your Life” or “The Graduation Ceremony Song”, “Shame” is a contender for the ultimate break up song of 2017—apparently even Taylor Swift was too focused on fixing her reputation to have a swing at the story arc that has been synonymous with her name.

https://www.instagram.com/p/BcKp1gZlM3o/?taken-by=geniobambino

The beat and even some of the lyrics of “Shame” might seem optimistic at first glance with the upbeat guitar riffs from Bandz and the groovy mid-tempo beat Le Mav produces. But there’s no mistaking the melancholy when Genio Bambino sings “Loving You Was A Shame” repeatedly on the chorus. Fasina’s contribution is a short verse but it cuts right to the bone of contention singing “Babe Please Don’t Leave Me”.

Tomi Thomas reaches deep into 2000’s romantic R&B classics and revives Wyclef’s “911” by interpolating nostalgic lines, “If This Is The Kind Of Love That My Mom Used To Warn Me About/ I’m In Trouble, I’m In Real Big Trouble” with his verse. Though the beat sounds delightful, his vocals highlight the original intent comes from a dark place in the singer’s heart.

“Shame”‘s  funky harmony is cheerful but the mainstay is actually a sarcastic and scornful slam piece. It is the soundtrack for all things that must end. It will be playing as the earth takes its final spin. Listen to Genio Bambino’s “Shame” featuring Tomi Thomas and Fasina below.

Featured Image Credits: Instagram/geniobambino

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 Genio Bambino and AylØ on “Soul”

Kiss Daniel launches Flyboy I.N.C label and debuts with new single, “No Do”

Posted on by The Native

Kiss Daniel’s unceremonious exit from the G-Worldwide record label was greeted with the same reaction sport fans give the transfer windows. Speculations were made and op-eds were written with hopes of anticipating his next move and figuring what label will best suit his talent. But as it turns out, Kiss Daniel won’t be signing any recording deals for a while yet as he unveiled his record label, Flyboy I.N.C  with a new single, “No Do”.

https://www.instagram.com/p/BcPZIdmjuO6/?hl=en&taken-by=iamkissdaniel

With the drums riffs, horns, guitar and a piano bassline reminiscent of the theme song from “Tales By The Moonlight”, “No Do” is a cheerful, feel-good song at its core. But it represents many things; It’s about discovery and hope, but it could also be about knowing your limits. Over the mid-tempo beat Philkeyz produces, Kiss Daniel sings, “No Go Dey Do Pass Yourself” for the hook and in light of recent events, gives the impression that he knows exactly what he’s doing by creating his own label.

Kiss Daniel’s steady output of hood anthems has catapulted him to be among Nigeria’s most adored artists. And now with the creative freedom that comes from having full authority over his music, we can’t imagine anything stopping him from continuing the upward trajectory his career has charted since 2013 when he was initially signed.

You can stream “No Do” below.

https://soundcloud.com/afro-songs/kiss-daniel-no-do

Featured Image Credits: Instagram/iamkissdaniel

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 Kiss Daniel’s debut video for the year, “Sofa”

New Haervest is coming to Were House this December, are you ready?

Posted on by The Native

December is jampacked with all kinds of events, each one only slightly different from the other. It can get exhausting hopping from one to the other, convincing yourself that you are getting a different experience every single time. This is why vintage fashion brand New Haervest is shaking things up a bit with their new pop-up festival.

NEW HARVEST is not only inspired by fashion festival ideas but also by retro music (the 60s, 80s, 90s and early noughties) from both Western and Nigerian Artists but also by the happiness and positive energy that lives within festivals

They’re really about that life, throwing it back and celebrating everything that made the 80’s and 90’s in particular so iconic. The New Haervest brand draws inspiration from icons like Madonna and Janet Jackson, polishing them off with some millennial sophistication. They are also very invested in the idea of providing a platform for artists whose music might not fit into the mainstream or even the timeline into which they were born. This is why the New Haervest inaugural pop-up party is also features a line up of 10 artists experimenting with retro vibes either in their branding or their music. Inclusion is a pretty big deal to the people behind the New Haervest pop-up party and the brand itself, and this is why while the main theme of the pop-up might be celebrating retro vibes, the pop-up welcomes everyone to come and shop, party and vibe with the guest artists.

To get the ball rolling, the brand has just put out a mini-editorial with some of the clothes that are going to be on sale.With styling and photography by Daniel Obasi, and fashion it-girls Rebecca and Susan Garland, the New Haervest Editorial promoting their shopping party this December is some of the finest work we’ve seen this year.

Where is it happening: Were House, 7b Mike Adegbite Avenue, Lekki Phase One, Lagos.

When: December 16, 2017.

New Haervest

Nasty C gets super self-aware on new single, “Changed”

Posted on by The Native

In hip-hop, one sure way to trump the inviolable law of ‘Keeping It Real’ is to establish a whole new reality with emotionally charged lyrics. It explains why Drake despite all the criticism he has received for being corny has grown into such a rap phenomena steering hip-hop out of the streets and into an emotive headspace. And why more rap songs have more forlorn subtext and perhaps even why there are so many rap songs up for 2018 Grammy nominations. It’s already too late for Nasty C’s latest release, “Changed” to get a Grammy nomination against next year’s awards ceremony, but that’s not stopping him from revealing the thoughts that keep him up at night and why he casts suspicious glares at his friends.

https://www.instagram.com/p/BcEluKQAY6i/?hl=en&taken-by=nasty_csa

The synthesizers that seem to bellow in some distant horizon like strange fog, piano percussions and drums provide the backdrop for Nasty C’s penetrating lyricism and arresting melodies. Though his subsequent releases have shown his competence with hip-hop’s more showy realm, “Changed” focuses on the emotional. Admitting his materialistic desires, “I Don’t Make Friends, I Make Business Partners Now/ It’s All About What’s In My Pockets Now”, he addresses the conflicting feelings that come with an unquenchable thirst for fame and the untenable insecurities that follow.

Nasty C provides a glimpse into the roots of these insecurities first by explaining a friend’s insulting accusation just before asking him from some money. He also seems to be describing some troubling emotions towards his dad when he raps that he was “Convinced (He) Wasn’t Gon Miss Him”. Though his mood seems somber, it allows him deliver his boasts and confessional in high definition.

All the while, he toggles seamlessly between the twin roles of singer on the hook and rapper on the verses. “Changed” shows Nasty C’s inability to resist the fast life though he’s clearly dazed by it. You can listen below.

Featured Image Credits: Instagram/nasty_csa

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: PatricKxxLee’s ‘Dairy Of An Arsonist’ is an impressively creative debut