BEST OF THE MONTH : AUGUST
August brought us a fresh wave of exhilarating songs from Africa that had our curators vibing all month long. This month’s lineup features standout releases from artists like AratheJay, Oxlade, Joeboy, Yarden, and Fireboy, delivering everything from smooth Afrobeats to vibrant new sounds that kept the energy high and playlists on repeat.
1
Yarden - Soul
This is the kind of Afrobeats song that gets under your skin in the best way possible. It’s all about that love that’s so intense, it feels like magic. The beat is infectious, the vibe is irresistible, and before you know it, you’ll have this one on repeat.
2
TAR1Q - Bus Stop
This song is a vibe from start to finish. It’s that perfect mix of catchy Afrobeats and smooth melodies that gets stuck in your head—in the best way. With its infectious hooks, “Bus Stop” is a feel-good song that makes you want to hit repeat and dance along.
3
BiQo -Necessary
BiQo turns up the heat with “Necessary,” a song that’s as smooth as it is spicy. This song dives into the rollercoaster of a love that’s both thrilling and a little bit chaotic. It’s got that irresistible groove that makes you want to hit repeat.
4
Toyé - Special
A fun, flirty song for that one-of-a-kind love. He’s ready to spoil his special someone with trips to Greece and shopping sprees, all set to a catchy Afrobeat groove. Perfect for when you’re feeling that head-over-heels kind of vibe.
5
CozyPols & Ria Boss - Pick a Date (J33J3)
CozyPols and Ria Boss bring all the weekend vibes with “Pick a Date J33J3.” This song is your perfect excuse to kick back and soak in some sweet, easygoing love. “Pick a Date” (J33J3) is all about enjoying the moment.
6
AlorG - For Di Road
This is the ultimate hustle anthem, capturing the grind of staying on your feet when life throws its toughest punches. With lyrics that cut deep, AlorG talks about the struggle of keeping it real in a world full of fake.This Afrobeats song is for anyone who’s ever had to keep moving, even when the road gets rough.
7
Hamzaa - 25!
“25!” is your new go-to jam for surviving and thriving. With soulful vibes and a catchy chorus, she celebrates hitting her stride at 25, shaking off setbacks, and leveling up. Perfect for anyone who has fought or is fighting through tough times and coming out stronger.
8
Joeboy - Zombie
A catchy Afro-pop song that perfectly captures the feeling of being totally lovestruck. With smooth vocals and a beat that pulls you in, Joeboy sings about being so head over heels that he feels like a “zombie” under his lover’s spell.
9
Majeeed - California
The perfect long-distance love anthem set to a smooth Afrobeats groove. Even 10,000 miles away, the love stays strong. With catchy lyrics and a vibe that sticks, it’s a must-listen for anyone missing their special someone but staying committed.
10
Annabel Rose - Lungs
This is the ultimate slow-love anthem. It’s all about savoring those first sweet moments, where you just want to stay in bed, whisper secrets, and let love breathe. Perfect for daydreamers who love to take their time in romance!
11
omah lay - Moving
A feel-good anthem all about pushing through tough times and staying strong. With a catchy mix of Afropop and R&B, Oxlade’s smooth vocals carry a message of resilience and self-belief. It’s the perfect track to lift your spirits and remind you that, with a little perseverance, you can overcome anything.
12
Fireboy DML & LAGBAJA - back n forth
“Back n Forth” off Fireboy new album “Adedamola” is a smooth, sultry Afrobeats song that’s bound to have you dancing and falling in love at the same time. Enlisting the legendary Nigerian icon Lagbaja, Fireboy brings a fusion of silky vocals and groovy rhythms that capture the essence of romance and movement.
13
DJ Neptune & Qing Madi - Honest
“Honest” is a smooth Afro-pop jam that tackles the push and pull of modern love. With catchy beats and relatable lyrics, it’s all about finding balance between needing space and staying connected.
14
London, ayra Starr & 6lack -pinaColada
London makes a stellar debut with his first single, “Pinacolada,” featuring the captivating talents of Ayra Starr and 6lack. Ayra Starr’s silky vocals blend seamlessly with 6lack’s smooth verse, perfectly complementing London’s lush, tropical-inspired production. “Pinacolada” is a must-have for any chill playlist.
15
Mannywellz - Ouu Wee (Brown)
Mannywellz delivers a love letter to melanin magic with “Ouu Wee (Brown).” This soulful song is a celebration of brown skin, with lyrics that praise the beauty of curls, curves, and the irresistible charm of black women. The song blends smooth melodies with heartfelt lyrics, making it a sweet tribute to the strength and beauty that society often overlooks.
16
Oxlade - ifa
‘IFA (If I)’ is a vibrant love anthem that effortlessly blends Ivorian Coupé-Décalé with the infectious rhythms of Afrobeats, topped off with a hook you won’t get out of your head. Featuring Oxlade’s unmistakable vocals harmonizing with Fally Ipupa’s smooth French tenor, the track radiates warmth and romance. With its deep bass, lively drums, and a touch of violin, ‘IFA’ is the ultimate summer love song.
17
AratheJay ft. Black Sherif – Jesus Christ 2
In what many fans and critics are calling a glimpse into the future of hiplife, AratheJay teams up with Ghanaian sensation Black Sherif on the standout track “Jesus Christ.” The song is a bold fusion of contemporary hiplife beats with Black Sherif’s signature gritty vocals, delivering a raw and electrifying energy. Known for pushing the boundaries of the genre, AratheJay taps into the emotional and powerful storytelling that both artists are known for.
Related
You may also like
The Influence of African Music on the U.K.
If you’re gonna take away anything from this piece, it’s that culture and influence are inex
The Girl Behind the Music
Meet the woman behind Kimani Moore Entertainment; the agency that manages Odunsi the Engine,Ozzy B &
Music to Massage your Mate to
Garvie delivers a valentine’s day mix of new music ‘Music to massage your mate to