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. Last week, we highlighted new drops from Tems who featured on Future’s new album alongside Drake, Zenesoul, Majeeed, Moliy, T.I Blaze, Skiibi and more. Today’s selection includes new cuts from Young Jonn, Darkoo, Ninety and more.

Young Jonn – “Dada Remix” ft. Davido 

Following the release of his debut EP as a performing artist ‘Love Is Not Enough’, Young Jonn has collaborated with Afropop superstar and DMW Label boss Davido for the remix of the standout single “Dada.” The remix sees Davido elevating an already catchy track. He opens his verse with lyrics such as “Now, ini mini mani mo, on your marks, set, baby let’s go/girl your body be the koko, money money choke o for the bank o”, letting his love interest know he’s ready to take care of her with all his wealth and power. 

Naira Marley – “O’dun” ft Zinoleesky

For his first official single of the year, street pop artist Naira Marley has arrived with a new record “O’dun”, featuring his protege and former NATIVE cover star Zinoleesky. “O’dun” is an Amapiano infused track which sees both artists singing in Yoruba about experiencing something sweet and savoury. Zinoleesky delivers a stellar verse on the track as he sings “feeling like spartacus I’m dangerous, she loves me cause I’m famous.” The song also serves as the lead single off Naira Marley‘s forthcoming debut album, ‘God’s Timing The Best.’

Darkoo – “Everything But You Remix” ft BackRoad Gee, Clean Bandit & Young Chencs 

On “Everything But You Remix”, UK rapper singer and songwriter Darkoo teams up with BackRoad Gee for an uptempo Afroswing record.  Co-produced by Young Chencs and Luke Petterson, the record sees both artists singing to their respective muses and making claims about how they currently feel. Over the hook, Darkoo sings “I just want to let go off everything but you,” while setting the scene for Backroad Gee to step in and rap melodiously over the stellar production of the track. 

Ninety – “Hold My Side”

For his debut EP, Ninety is here with ‘Rare Gem’— a 7-track project which features records such as “Buttercup” and standout record “Hold My Side.” “Hold My Side” is a mid-tempo record produced by Typae which sees the artist making confessions to his lover. On it, he offers lyrics such as “My baby be like rizzla wey dey roll my ganja/she got the fire like a full lighter.”

Goya Menor – Ameno Amapiano ft. David Guetta 

Following the success of his hit single, “Ameno Amapiano” record which took over the Internet and clubs only a few days after its release, Goya Menor has tapped American producer David Guetta for a befitting cross-continental remix. The record features similar elements to the song’s original production, while also sprinkling signature house melodies that have come to underscore Guetta’s stellar production. 

Mr Drew – “Dayana”

Ghanaian Highlife singer, songwriter and performer Mr Drew is here with another record “Dayana”, a mid-tempo number which sees the artist making love confessions to his muse. On the Beatz Vampire-produced record, he showers her with his undulating affection with amorous lyrics such as “Baby you give me something, step in the front show workings/Make somebody call my Dayana.”

Alpha Ojini – “Two Horns” ft. Boogey, Kel & A-Q

For his latest release “Two Horns”, Alpha Ojini, Boogey, Kel and A-Q have teamed up for a hard-hitting rap number which sees all the artist flexing their skills over the song’s gritty production. The record which is a blend of Afropop and Hip-Hop-type beats sees all four rappers trading bars on their achievements and being above their opps and haters.

Featured Image Credits/NATIVE

ICYMI: PROJECT RUNAWAY