Best of the Month: April
Explore April’s musical journey with our curated selection featuring tracks from Mellissa, Juls, Dandizzy, Minz, Harley, and more. Discover the latest in new music and emerging artists spanning various genres, including afrobeats, R&B, and Amapiano. From the soulful melodies of South African R&B to the infectious rhythms of Nigerian afrobeats, each song brings its own unique flair and energy. Join us as we delve into the vibrant beats and heartfelt lyrics shaping the new African music scene.
1
MELISSA - HAPPY
Ghanaian songstress Mellissa returns with her latest track “Happy,” setting the stage for an exciting start to 2024. This pop-infused delight showcases Mellissa’s subtle yet captivating vocals, effortlessly weaving through infectious beats and catchy melodies. With “Happy,” Mellissa brings a touch of warmth and charm, inviting listeners to join her on a journey of upliftment and joy. It’s a testament to her artistry and growth, proving that sometimes it’s the gentlest voices that have the biggest impact.
2
MINZ, 255 - SHADOW
When it comes to hitmakers and the future of Afrobeats, one name stands out: Minz. His latest release, “Shadow,” blends 2000s-inspired production with traditional drumbeats and keys, creating a seamless fusion of past and present. With his infectious melodies and clever lyricism, Minz elevates the already perfect track to new heights. “Shadow” is more than just a rhythm—it’s a shazam-worthy masterpiece that will have you hitting repeat again and again.
3
JULS, ODEAL - HOLD you dOwN
Grammy-nominated artist Juls is back with a tantalizing taste of what’s to come on his forthcoming album, set to drop later this year. Teaming up with the smooth vocals of a Nigerian crooner, Juls delivers a soulful track that’s perfect for those lazy summer afternoons and relaxed evenings. With its laid-back tempo and captivating melodies, “Hold You On” invites you to unwind and lose yourself in its tranquil rhythm. It’s guaranteed to be the soundtrack to your sun-soaked adventures and late-night escapades.
4
BHADMAYORS, ALORG - FREE MY MIND
Introducing Bhadmayors, a fresh face in the Ghanaian music landscape, bringing a burst of energy with his latest catchy single, featuring AlorG. With a blend of infectious rhythms and irresistible melodies, this track is a breath of fresh air, injecting a dose of happiness and carefree spirit into your playlists. Get ready to hit replay as you immerse yourself in the uplifting vibes of this exciting newcomer in African music.
5
AVENOIR - LOVE
Meet Avenoir, a Nigerian artist based in Canada, whose mastery of R&B and soul is truly commendable. If you’re a fan of Sonder, you’re bound to fall in love with Avenoir’s soulful sound. “Love” serves as the perfect introduction to this talented artist and his recent EP, “Noire.” Get ready to embark on a musical journey filled with emotion, depth, and soul-stirring melodies as Avenoir takes you on a captivating ride through his world of new African music.
6
MASHBEATZ, AMI FAKU, NKOSAZANA DAUGHTER - NOXOLo
Mashbeatz crafts a mesmerizing R&B love ballad, uniting two of South Africa’s powerhouse vocalists. With Ami Faku and Nkosazana Daughter’s soulful vocals, the track envelops you in a warm embrace, evoking the cozy feeling of being curled up with your lover on a lazy Sunday. It’s a musical journey that speaks to the heart, stirring emotions and igniting a sense of intimacy with every note. Get ready to be swept away by the soul-stirring magic of ‘Noxolo’.
7
HARLEY, MADEINPARIS - ca va pour nous
The afropiano revolution has crossed borders to France, and Harley is at the forefront of the movement, soaring to new heights. This Afro-French artist takes you on a high-energy ride with his new African music track, where infectious rhythms and pulsating beats compel you to lace up your dancing shoes. Get ready to groove to the irresistible sound of Harley as he effortlessly blends Afro vibes with French flair, creating a musical experience that transcends borders and brings people together on the dance floor.
8
BLESSION - BACK N FORTH
Blession, the UK-based Nigerian musician, delivers a poignant portrayal of toxic relationships through his music. With raw honesty and emotional depth, Blession encapsulates the complexities of these tumultuous connections in a powerful audio experience. Prepare to be moved as he lays bare the highs and lows, the passion and pain, weaving a narrative that resonates with listeners on a profound level. Blession’s artistry serves as a mirror reflecting the realities of toxic love, offering both solace and catharsis to those who have experienced similar struggles.
9
BLOODY CIVILAIN - HEAD START
Bloody Civilian dives deep into the amapiano genre with her latest empowering single. “Head Start” serves as a powerful anthem, delivering a resounding message to haters and naysayers alike. With infectious beats and a killer log drum accompaniment, this track is more than just music—it’s a bold declaration of resilience and determination.
10
DAI VERSE - SALT
Nigerian artist Dai Verse brings forth a pseudo-gospel gem, embodying the essence of the afropiano movement currently making waves across Nigeria. Opening with powerful affirmations from his mother and woven with lyrics worthy of your manifestation board, this track is more than just music—it’s a spiritual journey. Dai Verse’s soul-stirring vocals and uplifting melodies will inject a burst of motivation into your day, putting a spring in your step and reminding you of the power of belief and perseverance.
11
SIXSAIDIT - JAPA 2 JAPAN
Sixsaidit has captivated our editors with her impeccable flow and lyrical prowess, and her latest track “Japa 2 Japan” is no exception. With an instrumental that pays homage to the iconic 2012 Teriyaki Boyz hit, “Tokyo Drift,” Sixsaidit effortlessly weaves her magic, delivering a seamless fusion of nostalgia and innovation. Get ready to rev up your playlist as Sixsaidit takes you on a high-octane sonic journey, leaving a lasting impression with her unparalleled artistry.
12
wave montega, tome - stush
“Stush” ignites with sultry energy as rapper Wave Montego and singer Tome engage in a captivating back-and-forth. Their contrasting voices electrify the atmosphere, while the laid-back melody adds a chill vibe, making this track an instant favorite.
13
YIMEEKA, PHEELZ - AWAY
Fresh off her second EP, Nigerian producer Yimeeka shines with “Away,” a standout track that showcases her talent and potential. Teaming up with chart-topping producer, singer, and frequent collaborator Pheelz, Yimeeka is solidifying her position as a new African music artist to keep an eye on
14
UAX, TMXO - LAGOS 2 CRAZY
Imagine this: you’re on vacation, cruising along the coastline in a sleek drop-top with your companion by your side. The sun bathes you both in its warm glow, and your shades are as cool as your company. And what’s blasting from the stereo? Only the latest banger from UAX, collaborating with producer and musician TMXO on this laid-back R&B record. From his just-released EP “Love and Hustle,” “Lagos 2 Crazy” emerges as the ultimate summer anthem, adding just the right groove to your sun-drenched escapades.
15
DANDIZZY, ODUMODUBLVCK,JERIQ,DTG - OPPRESS
Dandizzy is carving out a niche for himself as a standout in Nigeria’s growing hip-hop and drill music scene. In “Oppress,” he teams up with hitmaker ODUMODUBLVCK, Jeriq, and DTG, delivering killer bars that elevate the track to new heights. With its high-energy vibe, “Oppress” is not only perfect for your workouts but also guaranteed to amp up any occasion.
16
NNAVY, KARUN, MSAKI, HENDRICK SAM - LET ME
If love had a soundtrack, it’d be ‘Let Me.’ This R&B gem by Kenyan artist Nnavy and Karun, alongside South African talents Msaki and Hendrick Sam, captures that perfect vibe for falling head over heels. It’s like the musical embodiment of butterflies in your stomach.
17
rukmani - unruly
Nigerian musician Rukmani keeps dazzling with her versatile releases. Her distinct vocals and catchy melodies shine once again, especially on this island-infused track. The new African music scene is diverse and exciting and Rukmani is a great example of this.
18
KEMUEL - FOCUS
Kemuel is making waves in the afrobeats scene, steadily cementing his place among the greats. With “Focus,” he unleashes a motivational powerhouse, igniting flames of determination within himself and his audience. This track isn’t just music; it’s a rallying cry, urging everyone to keep pushing forward, no matter the obstacles in their path.
19
GUY2BEZBAR, R2KO - ENCORE
Guy2bezbar effortlessly glides over this laid-back rap beat alongside R2KO, trading bars in seamless harmony over the silky-smooth production. It’s a testament to the undeniable fire of Afro rap, and this track stands as a shining example of its infectious energy and creativity.
20
MBA FOR AFRICA, KVNGVIDARR, DIYO MATALO, JORDANSTYLS- MONEY I DEY FIND
From the MBA for Africa music business program’s EP, this single emerges as a standout. The fusion of melody and rap on this track is electrifying. Its lyrics not only inspire but also provide a compelling argument for the importance of embracing singlehood for both peace of mind and financial freedom.
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