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.

Amid 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. Last weekend, we shared new music from DedayoTheSage, Blxckie, Senami, and more. This week, get into new music from Loti, Lioness, Nanette, Savemilli, Ceeza Milli and more.

Loti – “Mainland”

“Mainland” feels like the soundtrack to a typical day in the Mainland axis of Lagos. Over a pensive production, uNder alum (previously known as Fresh Meat) Loti is sombre, introspective and prayerful. He sings about coming from a humble background, broaches the topic of a typical day in Lagos and intersperses the record with inspirational prayers.

Nanette – “Fire” ft. Idahams

Off uNder artist Nanette’s just-released project ‘Bad Weather’, “Fire” is a standout. On this number, South African R&B singer taps Idahams for a soulful ode to rocky relationships. Coming at us with sticky sweet melodies and poignant lyricism, the duo pull apart the sombre angst that trails a troubled relationship.

Lioness – “Danisa (Dance)”

Replete with bouncy percussion and shimmering melodies, “Danisa” is the perfect soundtrack to sweltering drives around town or boisterous nights at the club. Over a groovy production, Lioness teases and offers adulation to her muse with breezy singing and playful rapping.

Ceeza Milli – “Chop Life” ft. Sneakbo & Mr Dutch

Following the success of the original, Ceeza Milli taps Sneakbo & Mr Dutch for a refreshing remix of “Chop Life.” The addition of Sneakbo and Mr Dutch elevates and puts a fresh spin on the track. Over a sunny production, Ceeza Milli delivers an ode to hedonism, as he sings about how he just wants to live a life without struggles, digging deep into the utmost desires of the human psyche and fine-tuning them into uplifting melodies.

Django23 – “Popping” ft. Simba & BNXN

“Popping” sees Django23 rally British singer-songwriter S1mba and BNXN for an uplifting ode to opulence and success. Replete with poignant lyricism and calm melodies “Popping” is a cathartic listen that sees the trio layer a pensive production with affirmations of success.

Princess – “Moving”

Packed with twinkling guitar riffs and rhythmic grooves, the instrumentals on “Moving” commands the ambience of a bright day at the beach. Over the serene production, Princess is introspective as she tunnels down the rabbit hole of a failed relationship and delivers an anthem for heartbroken ladies. She declares that she’s surmounted the feelings of heartbreak and she’s instead going to focus on getting to know herself better.