2022 is no longer a new year, and Afropop knows that very well. As much as the previous year was packed with scene-defining achievements, especially within the context of global growth, the only way to keep the momentum from falling off is for artists to keep reaching into their bag for great music that holds the ears and captures the hearts of millions of listeners across the continent and well beyond. That’s exactly what’s been happening, so much so that there’s hundreds of new singles, at-least one new must-hear album and a new smash hit every week.

Amidst this torrent of new music, The NATIVE is committed to highlighting the best releases you need to hear, and possibly add to your playlists. That’s the essence of our ‘Songs of the Day’ column. Earlier in the week we had releases from Wizkid, Nandy, Kwesi Arthur, Fola Bella Shmruda and more. Today, we bring to you new releases from Joeboy, PsychoYP, Black Sherif, Bey T and Boohle and more.

Joeboy – “Cubana”

Following his hit song “Alcohol” whcih currently ranks at No.14 on the inaugural Billboards Afrobeats Chart, Joeboy comes back with a bouncy new single titled “Cubana”. The song’s percussive production provides the perfect backdrop for Joeboy for fire off his amorous lyrics which have grown sharper and clearer since his previous release. The hitmaker gives his fan a preview of what to expect in his upcoming project, which is the follow-up to his debut ‘Somewhere Between Beauty and Magic.’ 

Black Sherif – “Kwaku The Traveller”

Kwaku the Traveller is a reflective number powered by Black Sherif’s gritty delivery. The Drill track takes features otherworldly production production as Black Sherif boasts his knack of storytelling. Packed with hard-punching lyrics, “Kwaku The Traveller” is a promising street anthem, following the rapper’s link up with Nigeria’s Burna Boy on “Second Sermon Remix” earlier this year.

Bey T and Boohle  – “Unanicheza” ft. Soa Matrixx

On this Amapiano track, Kenyan singer Bey T teams up with South African singers Boohle and Soa Matrixx. Charactarised by strong cultural pride and traditional percussion, the production creates a languid sonic atmosphere. “Unanicheza” is a soulful yet innocent track questioning the loyalty of a significant other. Boohle and Bey T give a raw and pleasing performance with a catchy hook.

A-Reece – “Couldn’t Have Said It Better, Pt.3”

A Sequel to “Couldn’t Have Said It Better Pt.1” (2017) and Pt.2 (2018), “Couldn’t Have Said It Better Pt.3” came as a surprise to A-Reece fans as he was celebrating his birthday. After a successful 2021, A-Reece reasserts his position in SA Hip-Hop as he gives his archetypal cadence over a Black Metaphor beat. He embodies his boisterous persona dishing out lyrics such as  “got executives on the edge of their seats// It’s hard to keep score You know they say that only losers check the scoreboard// to remind you he is rap god.” A- Reece is planning to release a project on 21st October 2022 which also happens to be 6th anniversary of his debut album ‘Paradise.’

Psycho YP – “WYDTM” ft. Azanti

Whenever Psycho YP and Azanti come together, the results are wonderous and “WYDTM” is a testimony. Coming from Psycho YP’s new two-pack project, “WYDTM” is another accolade to add to his trophy cabinet. On this trap R&B/Soul, their chemistry is undeniable with their distinct flow and irresistible ad-libs. 

BNXN – “For Days

Despite the international hit of “Finesse” with Pheelz, BNXN is only taking it up a notch. “For Days” is a romantic number that sees BNXN confessing and assuring his love to his muse. On the chorus of the track he sings lyrics such as “You know you be my baby, You know I got you for days/Something dey me baby, You never call me today” to his love interest.

Featured Image Credits/NATIVE