We’re halfway through 2022, and it’s been an eventful year for Afropop. There’s been a torrent of great new music, spawning a massive stack of inventive smash hit songs. From Highlife-infused Ghanaian pop, to the unrelenting force that is Nigerian street-pop, to South Africa’s indomitable Dance scene, to tantalising Drill explorations in East and Central Africa, and much, much more, we’re living through abundant and musically expansive times.

Every week, tonnes of songs from African artists make their way to digital streaming platforms, and wading through them can be intense. That’s where The NATIVE’s Songs of the Day column comes in to help. We go through as many new releases as possible, spotlighting them here, two to three times every week. Last week, we featured songs from Young Jonn, Mayorkun and others. This week, we have new bops from Groovy Jo, Harrysong, Prince Kaybee and more. Dig into for some great listens.

PRINCE KAYBEE — “ZIMBALI” (FT. AMI FAKU)

South African DJ and Producer Prince Kaybee put out his latest album ‘Gemini’ last weekend, using his long years in the SA music scene to assemble a fine list of collaborators. A standout is this stirring and soulful track with Ami Faku, whose glistening vocals are in fine harmony with the production’s colourful movements. During the song’s six minutes runtime, an array of emotions is seamlessly tapped into, from the bewitching dance section to ominous piano notes and, much later, pairing everything into an electric closing.

GOD KNOWS — “TWELVE 61” (FT. JAH MASTER)

Zimbabwean-Irish rapper God Knows has been intentional about his career, frequently updating his catalogue. His songs tend to explore the multiplicity of cultures he belongs to, and on “Twelve 61” that ethos is on full display. Over a sizzling beat unmistakably cut from Dancehall, he connects with homebased established scion Jah Master to deliver a memorable performance. They’re accompanied by the masterful stroke of sampling a 60s tune.

GROOVY JO — “FEELIN’ IT”

An electric bass and rolling drums are the dominant features of “Feelin’ It,” the infectious new single from Kenyan rapper and Fresh Meat alum Groovy Jo. The song takes a boisterous turn as Jo sings of her superior artistry, holding up herself as the standard. True to her words, she’s remarkably cutting edge with her delivery, flowing into every second with mastered precision. By the song’s final twist, you’re indeed deep in the groovy vibe her moniker promises.

HARRYSONG — “META”

His name might not be as prominent as before but those who know Harrysong will look fondly to his years of reign. Fortunately for everyone, the man himself isn’t caught in the wistful motions of nostalgia but continues to prove himself as one who can readily adapt. His new song “Meta” showcases that elastic artistry, with Mr. Songz talking love and taking his famed vocals into a lush soundscape heralded by soft drums and cooing trumpets.

DOTMAN — “SAY NO MORE” (FT. PERUZZI)

Soft string arrangements and heartfelt lyrics move accordingly in “Say No More”, the new collaboration between Dotman and Peruzzi. The mood is pensive in the ways love can be, inspiring the assuring lines of each singer. Between Dotman’s melodious ring and the more lived-in detailing of Peruzzi’s verse, the song deftly upholds itself a fine addition to any playlist concerned with similar subjects.

BLESSING TANGBAN — “FIBIYIN”

Drawing from the deep well of folk music, Blessing Tangban’s music leaves one with the feeling of encountering a mystic power. In her most recent tape, ‘Out of The Ordinary Feel’, the Cross River-born musician orchestrates an exhilarating record detailing the patience that comes with living. “I believe it will be if it’s meant to be” she sings in the hook with crystal-eyed assurance, situating her ethereal vocals within bright guitars from a rock-style progression.

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