Royal Recognition: The King’s Music Room

In a remarkable gesture underscoring the global reach of African music, King Charles III launched The King’s Music Room, an exclusive feature on Apple Music. This playlist, personally curated by the King, spans ten decades and includes contributions from a diverse roster of artists, among them Nigerian Afrobeats stars Davido and Fave, as well as the legendary South African singer Miriam Makeba. The inclusion of these artists highlights the growing appreciation of African music within global contexts.

READ ALSO: Royal Vibes: How Afrobeats and Davido Brought Nigeria’s Sound to King Charles III

The royal endorsement is a testament to Afrobeats’ increasing prominence on the world stage. King Charles III emphasised music’s deep connection with memory and cultural celebration, stating, “Throughout my life, music has meant a great deal to me,” and recognising its power to bring joy, comfort, and unity. This recognition not only elevates the profiles of the featured artists but also sheds light on the vibrant musical landscapes of the Commonwealth, reinforcing the importance of diverse voices in today’s music industry.

Celebrating Five Years of TurnTable Charts

As Afrobeats continues its ascent, the TurnTable charts celebrated five years of tracking Nigerian music statistics. Co-founded by Similoluwa Adegoke and Ayomide Oriowo, TurnTable has solidified its reputation as Nigeria’s longest-running music chart, providing a credible reflection of the country’s music consumption habits.

Before TurnTable’s inception, tracking music statistics in Nigeria was often fragmented and unreliable. Now, through strategic partnerships with streaming services and industry stakeholders, the platform provides comprehensive charts covering singles, albums, and genres. Adegoke highlighted the ongoing quest for credibility, stating, “We’ve always known that what’s going to give us credibility is the numbers.” Their success has transformed TurnTable certification plaques into highly coveted industry recognitions.

Record Revenue Returns from Spotify

In a groundbreaking revelation, Nigerian artists have collectively earned over ₦58 billion in royalties from Spotify in 2024, more than doubling the previous year’s earnings. This remarkable financial growth reflects not only the surging popularity of Nigerian music at home but also its expanding international appeal.

Spotify’s 2024 Loud & Clear report revealed that over one billion new listeners discovered Nigerian artists this year. Additionally, the number of Nigerian artists earning over ₦10 million in royalties has more than doubled. Jocelyne Muhutu-Remy, Spotify’s Managing Director for Sub-Saharan Africa, reaffirmed the platform’s commitment to supporting Nigerian musicians, stating, “The incredible growth of Nigerian music is a testament to the talent and creativity within Nigeria, and we are proud to support its continued rise.”

As Nigerian music’s global footprint expands, discussions are emerging about necessary infrastructural improvements in Nigeria’s internet services and economy to further enhance streaming capacities and artist visibility.

Notable New Releases

This week also brought a fresh slate of new music that is already making waves:

Davido – Be There Still: A highly anticipated single from his upcoming album 5ive, reflecting on his journey and determination in the industry.

Ruger – Toro

Wizard Chan & Odumodublvck – Flako

BhadBoi OML & Gimba – 247

Yemi Alade – Iyanu

Tay Iwar – Bad Belle

These releases embody the dynamic spirit of Afrobeats, showcasing its capacity to innovate and resonate with audiences worldwide.

As Afrobeats garners unprecedented recognition and financial success, the future looks brighter than ever for African music. With royal endorsements and an expanding global audience, the genre is poised to influence the global music industry significantly. The increasing revenue generation and milestones like TurnTable’s five-year anniversary further underscore the immense talent and cultural depth emerging from Nigeria and the broader African continent.

The key question now is: how will the industry adapt and evolve to sustain this momentum? With strategic investments in infrastructure and continued support for artists, Afrobeats is set to enter an even more exciting chapter, cementing its place as a powerful voice for Africa in the global music landscape.

The post Record Revenues and Royal Endorsement Push Afrobeats to New Heights appeared first on African Leadership Magazine.

A global Afrobeats sensation, Davido has reshaped the music industry with his infectious rhythms and groundbreaking achievements. From being the first African artist to perform live at the MOBO Awards to featuring on the FIFA World Cup 2022 theme song, he has continuously elevated Afrobeats on the global stage. Known for hits like Fall and If, Davido has earned numerous accolades, including BET and MTV awards, while selling out iconic venues such as London’s O2 Arena. His four Grammy nominations further solidify his status as a trailblazer in African music. His influence extends beyond fans worldwide—to the British monarch himself.

Recently, King Charles III made headlines with his curated Apple Music playlist, The King’s Music Room, featuring a blend of global sounds from legends such as Beyoncé, Bob Marley, Kylie Minogue, and Miriam Makeba. Among these carefully selected tracks is Davido’s Kante, featuring Fave—a song rich in contemporary Afrobeats elements and Pidgin lyrics.

“This song features lyrics in Pidgin, which I love in all its forms, and in which I attempted to make a speech when I last visited Nigeria,” the King remarked. He further acknowledged the genre’s global dominance, stating, “I understand that, thanks to Afrobeats, it is becoming ever more popular around the world.”

Afrobeats has transcended borders, firmly establishing itself as a dominant force in the global music industry. Nigerian artists have redefined Africa’s musical footprint, with sold-out concerts at London’s O2 Arena and chart-topping records commanding international acclaim. Leading this movement is Davido, celebrated for his dynamic beats, cross-cultural collaborations, and electrifying performances.

London, often regarded as a second home for Nigerian artists, thrives as a hub for Afro-Caribbean music and culture. British radio stations frequently feature Afrobeats tracks, while clubs and festivals pulsate with the infectious rhythms of Naija music. Renowned British musicians, such as Ed Sheeran and Stormzy, have collaborated with Nigerian artists, reinforcing Afrobeats’ influence on the global stage.

For King Charles III, this appreciation is more than a passing interest—it reflects the genre’s undeniable cultural significance. His playlist, designed to showcase the diverse sounds of the Commonwealth, acknowledges Afrobeats’ global impact. Yet, his fascination with Nigerian culture extends beyond music—it encompasses language, people, and the vibrant spirit of the nation.

This is not the first time King Charles has attempted to bridge the gap between the British monarchy and Nigerian culture. During a 2018 visit to Nigeria, he famously greeted an audience with the phrase “How you dey?”—a widely used Pidgin expression for “How are you?” His effort to connect through Nigeria’s informal lingua franca earned admiration, and later in the speech, he playfully added, “We de try,” further endearing himself to Nigerians.

Pidgin English, a creole blend of English and indigenous Nigerian languages, is spoken by millions across West Africa. It has become a key component of Nigerian pop culture, frequently infused into music, film, and everyday conversations. King Charles’ growing appreciation for Pidgin English signifies the increasing global recognition of the language as a powerful and dynamic cultural force.

Could King Charles III Speak Pidgin?

While it remains to be seen whether King Charles III will ever master Pidgin English, his enthusiasm alone has sparked conversations about cultural inclusivity and appreciation. Many Nigerians have taken to social media, playfully imagining the King engaging in casual Pidgin banter. One Twitter user joked, “Imagine King Charles saying ‘E choke!’ or ‘No wahala!’” referencing popular Nigerian slang.

Regardless of his fluency, one thing is clear: King Charles III’s love for Nigerian music and Pidgin English underscores the unstoppable rise of Afrobeats as a global cultural phenomenon. In the words of Davido himself: “We rise by lifting others.” And in this case, Afrobeats has lifted a King.

Who knows? On his next visit to Nigeria, King Charles might just surprise everyone by saying, “Naija no dey carry last!

King Richard Igimoh is the Group Editor of African Leadership Magazine, UK

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As of October 2024, the Recording Academy’s voting membership consists of approximately 66% men and 28% women, with 6% preferring not to disclose their gender. Ethnically, 37% of new voting members identify as white, 27% as Black or African American, 9% as Hispanic or Latin, and 5% as Asian. Additionally, 50% of new members are people of colour, and 46% are under the age of 40. The total voting membership exceeds 13,000, according to the Academy.

READ ALSO: Grammys: Global Recognition of the African Music Industry

This year’s edition saw Afrobeats stars leading the charge in the newly introduced category ‘Best African Performance’. The category celebrated its second consecutive outing, with “Queen of Popiano” Tyla winning the inaugural edition in 2024.

Nigeria’s rebel queen, Tems, emerged victorious with her track “Love Me Jeje,” which samples the late 90s song of the same name by veteran Nigerian singer Seyi Sodimu. She triumphed over fellow countrymen Burna Boy, Asake, Wizkid, Yemi Alade, Davido, Lojay, and Chris Brown to win the groundbreaking accolade. This victory not only reflects the innovation within contemporary African music but also underscores the continent’s growing influence in the global music scene.

Tems had previously won her first Grammy Award for Best Melodic Rap Performance on 5 February 2023, for her contributions to the song “Wait For U,” where she collaborated with Future and Drake. This latest win is her first individual honour at the Grammy Awards.

As the Grammy Awards continue to evolve, it is evident that they not only recognise excellence in recorded music but also serve as a reflection of shifts in the global music landscape. The introduction of the category celebrating African performance marks a significant step towards inclusivity, enabling multifaceted genres like Afrobeats, highlife, and other rich African musical traditions to receive the recognition they deserve.

The African music industry has come a long way, and it is pertinent to examine the lessons we can learn from this journey: the sacrifices made by our noble forerunners, the challenges faced by the African music industry, and what the future holds for African music on the global stage.

According to famed music executive and Recording Academy member Gracey Mae, “A lot of effort went into ensuring that Africa received a category that represented the many genres of music across the continent. It took several proposals, data collection, focus groups, internal canvassing, African member recruitment, and the numerous mainstream moments to ensure Africa had a seat at the table.”

She added, “More needs to be done for Afrobeats and African music to be considered mainstream genres. They have to be part and parcel of pop culture’s consciousness through film, sports, food, and fashion. Within the Academy, we will see progress when we have more African members speaking for us; if we don’t tell our stories, others will.”

Despite these strides, African artists—especially women—continue to face myriad challenges that hinder their full potential within the music industry. Gender disparities remain a pressing issue, with women comprising just 28% of the Recording Academy’s voting membership, a figure that likely mirrors broader industry trends. The underrepresentation of women, particularly from marginalised communities, continues to impact visibility, opportunities, and access to resources for female musicians.

Additionally, African female artists often face socio-cultural barriers that can impede their careers. Societal expectations, stigma surrounding female expression, and limited access to funding and media exposure frequently present obstacles. Yet, artists like Tems serve as beacons of hope, breaking barriers and inspiring the next generation of female musicians to embrace their artistry without fear or limitation.

With the momentum generated by recent Grammy wins and the establishment of dedicated categories for African performances, the future of African music appears brighter than ever. The visibility gained through platforms like the Grammys provides opportunities for international collaborations, marketing, and audience expansion. As digital innovations continue to shape the music industry, African artists are increasingly finding ways to reach global audiences, transcending geographical boundaries and cultural barriers.

The growing popularity of Afrobeats and other African genres signals a cultural shift in global audiences’ desire to engage with Africa’s diverse sounds. As collaborations and influence-sharing between international stars and African artists continue to flourish, African music is set to play a more significant role in the global music narrative. With success at the Grammy Awards and ongoing advocacy for greater representation, African artists—including women—are poised to take their rightful place in music history, driven by their talent, resilience, and the rich variety of African sounds.

The post Celebrating African Talents: A Look at the 67th Grammy Awards appeared first on African Leadership Magazine.

Leading this charge, Nigerian artists such as Ahmed Ololade, better known as Asake, and the globally acclaimed Burna Boy have captivated fans around the world. Their innovative sound and compelling artistry have solidified their positions as key figures in the global music industry, making substantial contributions to Afrobeats’ worldwide popularity.

READ ALSO: The Significance of New Music Friday in Africa’s Music Ecosystem

The Pursuit of Global Music Domination

While the rise of Afrobeats presents vast opportunities, it is not without its challenges. Several factors hinder the genre’s quest for global dominance. Firstly, the industry faces significant infrastructural and financial obstacles. Although streaming platforms provide access to international audiences, many artists still struggle with issues related to distribution, record label support, and financial backing for production and marketing.

Another challenge lies in the perception of African music internationally. While Afrobeats is experiencing a surge in popularity, misconceptions persist, with some viewing the genre as catering only to niche markets. Additionally, the need for tailored promotional strategies to penetrate different cultural contexts remains crucial. Artists must strike a balance between authenticity and broader accessibility, ensuring their music retains its essence while appealing to global listeners.

Recent Developments and New Music Releases

As the musical landscape continues to evolve, Friday has become synonymous with new releases, offering listeners fresh sounds from emerging and established artists alike. This week’s edition of New Music Friday expands the Afrobeats repertoire with an exciting lineup:

 Qing Madi – I’m The Blueprint (Album): A highly anticipated album that showcases Qing Madi’s unique take on contemporary Afrobeats while drawing influences from various genres.

 Black Sherif ft. Fireboy DML – So It Goes: A vibrant collaboration blending soulful melodies with infectious rhythms, capturing the essence of modern Afrobeats.

 Shoday ft. Soundz – Blessings: A celebration of resilience and gratitude, weaving a compelling narrative through rhythm and lyrics.

 Ayo Maff – Panic: A high-energy track designed to get listeners moving, highlighting Ayo Maff’s dynamic musical style.

 Yung Alpha ft. Davido – Sober: A fusion of heartfelt lyrics and captivating beats, bringing together rising star Yung Alpha and Afrobeats heavyweight Davido.

 Boy Spyce – I’ll Be There: An emotive song that seamlessly blends melodic hooks with depth, reinforcing Boy Spyce’s place in the evolving Afrobeats scene.

 Boypee ft. Brown Joel & Hyce – Synergy (EP): A collaborative effort underscoring the power of teamwork in music, set to resonate with a broad audience.

 Wurld ft. Walshy Fire – Outside: A dynamic fusion of Afrobeats and dance elements, showcasing Wurld’s versatility and artistic flair.

As music continues to serve as a cornerstone of human existence, Afrobeats stands at the forefront of Africa’s growing influence in the global music industry. While challenges persist, the genre’s ability to adapt, innovate, and resonate with diverse audiences paves the way for future growth. The latest releases reflect the vibrancy and richness of Afrobeats, further cementing its status as a dominant force in global music. As we embrace these sounds and stories, we are reminded of music’s profound power to inspire, unite, and elevate cultures worldwide.

The post New Music Friday: Afrobeats and Global Dominance appeared first on African Leadership Magazine.

But First, Data on a Flourishing Industry

The past few years have shown remarkable growth in the African music industry. Recent analyses predict that the market will expand by an impressive 10.68% between 2022 and 2027, with projections estimating a value of approximately $49.37 million by 2027. This growth is driven by a rise in local talent, increasing international interest, and a burgeoning audience eager for new sounds and collaborations.

READ ALSO: The Significance of New Music Friday in Africa’s Music Ecosystem

Streaming has been a key factor in this growth. Music streaming revenues in Africa are projected to soar from $92.9 million in 2021 to a staggering $314.6 million by 2026. This surge is pivotal for artists, granting them access to global platforms and enabling the affordable distribution of their music beyond local borders.

The entertainment sector as a whole, encompassing music production, talent management, and live events, is thriving. In 2023 alone, start-ups in the music space collectively raised an impressive $13.9 million in funding—a significant increase compared to previous years. This influx of investment underscores the industry’s potential and the entrepreneurial spirit driving the creative economy.

New Music Friday Releases

Here are some of the most exciting new music releases from Africa this week:

1. Black Sherif – “Lord I’m Amazed”: A melodic journey blending Drill with heartfelt lyrics, resonating deeply with listeners.

2. Skibii – “Carry For Head”: A track that combines a catchy rhythm with playful lyricism, guaranteed to get anyone moving.

3. Terry Apala x Bella Shmurda – “Bride Price”: A collaboration that seamlessly merges traditional African sounds with contemporary beats, creating a unique auditory experience.

4. Dej Loaf x Runtown x Libianca – “Up or Down”: A genre-bending project showcasing each artist’s talents in a harmonious fusion, appealing to a diverse audience.

The African music industry’s positive growth reflects its immense potential. As we celebrate African music, we embrace its power to connect, tell our stories, and inspire change.

The post Africa is Competing in the Global Music Market appeared first on African Leadership Magazine.

Leading the lineup is the King of Afrobeats, Davido, with his much-anticipated first official single of the year, “Awuke.” This track is a love letter to the beauty and grace of African women, demonstrating Davido’s ability to craft music that resonates globally.

Joining him is YG Marley, the grandson of reggae legend Bob Marley, who fuses Afrobeats with Reggae in a unique blend that bridges genres. Together, they create a sound that honors both Afrobeats’ roots and Reggae’s legacy, offering fans worldwide a fresh musical experience.

Next on the list is “Order,” a powerful collaboration between Afrobeats icons Shallipopi and Olamide. Known as the “President of Pluto,” Shallipopi teams up with the legendary Olamide to produce a track that’s bound to light up dance floors across the world.

Afrobeats royalty Tiwa Savage also makes her mark this week with “Awolowo Remix,” featuring Fido. This song is an anthem of self-expression, exploring themes of survival and resilience in a challenging world.

Crayon, one of Mavin’s brightest stars, joins forces with multi-award-winning producer-turned-artist Young Jonn on “You.” This track is a dedication to the women of Africa, capturing their beauty and strength through infectious beats and captivating lyrics.

Other notable releases this week include:

• Rigo – “Summer / Morning Sun”
• Illbliss – “L X R”
• Larry Gaga, Flavour, Queen Theresa Onuorah & Phyno – “Obodo”
• Ta Liebe – Absent Mind EP

Africa’s music scene continues to evolve, solidifying its place as a global powerhouse of creativity and innovation. This week’s releases are a glimpse into the vast talent and vibrant energy African artists bring to the world stage, reminding us that African music is here to stay and inspire.

The post New Music Friday: A Global Celebration of African Sounds appeared first on African Leadership Magazine.

Here’s a roundup of the highlights for African music lovers this week:

King Qing Madi – “Goosebumps”

Nigerian singer-songwriter Qing Madi continues to captivate audiences with her emotional depth and relatable themes. Her latest single, “Goosebumps,” unravels the thrill and vulnerability tied to love, resonating with fans across borders. Following her breakthrough with “Ole” featuring BNXN, which secured top spots on Apple Music Nigeria and Uganda, Madi’s reflective lyrics and emotive delivery have cemented her as one to watch.

New Music Friday: Top African Tracks and Albums to Stream This Week

2Baba – “Kuku Google Am”

In “Kuku Google Am,” the legendary Nigerian artist 2Baba tackles fan debates and controversies around artists’ achievements. With almost 30 years in the industry, 2Baba’s stance in this song is that the digital era makes information accessible to all—fans can verify facts without fostering rivalries. Known for his consistency, 2Baba’s commentary on the need for respect and unity within the African music community is both timely and impactful.

Juls – Peace & Love

Award-winning producer Juls has released his highly anticipated sophomore album, Peace & Love, showcasing an all-star lineup with artists like Falz, Black Sherif, Victony, and Tay Iwar. The album pushes Afrobeats production forward, blending genres and celebrating African talent. Juls’ collaborations continue to elevate African sounds, capturing international audiences and asserting his role as a cultural ambassador for African music.

READ ALSO: New Music Friday: A Week of New Tunes and Rhythms

TAR1Q – Okada Airlines (EP)

Nigerian newcomer TAR1Q presents his EP Okada Airlines, which delivers a fusion of Afrobeats and contemporary R&B. The tracks touch on themes like love, self-discovery, and ambition, with TAR1Q’s distinct vocals setting the tone for this exploration. The EP offers a fresh perspective within the Afrobeats genre, balancing rhythmic intricacies with thoughtful lyricism. It’s gaining traction for its relatable narratives and smooth production, positioning TAR1Q as a rising artist to watch closely.

Sarkodie & Victony – Jailer

Ghanaian heavyweight Sarkodie teams up with Nigerian singer Victony for Jailer, a track that blends Afrobeat rhythms with reflective lyrics. Sarkodie’s rhythmic flow paired with Victony’s melodic contributions brings a cross-cultural resonance, celebrating the strength and depth of African collaborations. The song has quickly become popular, drawing fans for its soulful composition and lyrical reflections on resilience and personal freedom.

Magixx – Lemme Know

Mavin Records’ artist Magixx brings an energetic vibe with Lemme Know, a catchy track that showcases his playful side. Known for his unique Afropop style, Magixx continues to experiment with genre-mixing while keeping the melody catchy and engaging. This release adds a youthful flair to his discography, resonating with fans who appreciate danceable beats and memorable hooks.

Kohdee – Sweet Karma (EP)

Kohdee’s Sweet Karma EP is a carefully crafted project that explores the complexities of love, fate, and self-growth. With soulful vocals and intimate lyrics, Kohdee delves into emotional narratives, delivering a reflective listening experience. The EP’s balanced production and layered sounds have struck a chord with fans, establishing Kohdee as an emerging voice in the Afro-soul scene.

These releases highlight the depth and creativity within African music, where artists are blending traditional elements with modern sounds to create fresh and powerful expressions.

The post New Music Friday: Top African Tracks and Albums to Stream This Week appeared first on African Leadership Magazine.

The music industry in sub-Saharan Africa is particularly vibrant in South Africa, which boasts a notable growth rate of 19.9%, according to the IFPI’s 2024 study. Additionally, IFPI research highlights that sub-Saharan Africa is the fastest-growing region in the global music industry, with revenue growth surpassing 20%.

The region experienced a remarkable 24.7% increase in overall revenue, largely driven by a substantial rise in paid streaming revenues, which accounted for 24.5% of the total. This impressive growth underscores the growing global influence of African music.

South Africa’s rich and diverse musical landscape has been shaped by its multicultural history. Key genres that have influenced the nation’s music scene include:

Amapiano
Emerging in the early 2010s, Amapiano blends deep house, jazz, and lounge elements with house music, known for its deep basslines, melodic synths, and engaging vocals. Prominent artists in this genre include Kabza De Small, DJ Maphorisa, Focalistic, and Major League DJz.

Kwaito
Originating in the 1990s, Kwaito fuses house music with regional vernacular and traditional African rhythms. It is characterised by its upbeat rhythms, catchy melodies, and socially conscious lyrics. Notable artists include Mandoza, Mafikizolo, and Trompies.

READ ALSO: Sudan’s Hidden Gems of Ancient Civilization

Gqom
Gqom, a high-energy genre with minimal vocals, repetitive rhythms, and powerful basslines, originated in Durban. It is known for its underground appeal and raw energy, with key artists such as DJ Mujava, Rudeboyz, and Babes Wodumo.

These genres are just a few examples of the many musical styles that contribute to South Africa’s rich musical heritage. The nation’s vibrant culture and diverse population have produced a dynamic and ever-evolving music scene that captivates listeners worldwide.

The growing popularity of Southern African music can be attributed to several factors. The rise of digital platforms has allowed artists to reach audiences across the globe effortlessly. Moreover, increasing collaborations between African and international musicians are bridging cultural gaps and introducing new sounds to broader audiences.

Clearly, Southern Africa is poised to make a significant impact on the global music industry as its music continues to gain traction. With its innovative sounds, talented artists, and rich cultural heritage, Southern Africa is undoubtedly a force to be reckoned with.

The post The Sounds from Southern Africa appeared first on African Leadership Magazine.

The region’s music industry, in particular, is undergoing a remarkable transformation. The 1990s and early 2000s witnessed the rise of francophone music, which has since gained significant global traction.

In recent years, French-speaking African music has experienced a resurgence, captivating international audiences with its unique fusion of beats, melodies, and meaningful lyrics. Artists such as Fally Ipupa, Koffi Olomide, Angélique Kidjo, and Aya Nakamura are blending traditional African sounds with contemporary influences, earning widespread recognition beyond the continent.

According to the research firm Dataxis, revenue from African music streaming is projected to more than triple in five years, increasing from $92.9 million in 2021 to $314.6 million by 2026. Musicians from francophone countries are poised to capitalise on this growth, using streaming platforms to reach wider audiences and build international careers.

The diversity of French-speaking African music is not only reflected in its sound but also in its rich cultural heritage. A wide range of influences, from the rhythms of North Africa—such as those found in Tunisia and Morocco—to the sounds of Ivory Coast, Congo, Benin, Mali, and the French Caribbean islands of Guadeloupe and Haiti, contribute to its global appeal.

It is clear that Francophone Africa’s music scene is well on its way to becoming a major force in the global industry. With its distinctive sound, a wealth of talent, and a growing digital footprint, Francophone Africa is set to captivate audiences worldwide and secure its place on the global stage.

The post Francophone Africa’s Music: A Rising Global Force appeared first on African Leadership Magazine.

The world of music will feel the goodness of Afrobeats, R&B, Hip-hop, Amapiano and other musical bounties of Africa. The first man on the line is the sad boy of Afrobeats Omah Lay proscribed as the progenitor of ‘Afro depression’ with his ‘Moving’ single that showcases his impressive production with catchy beats and melodic instrumentation. It highlights Omah Lay’s artistic development and musical talent.

Next is Alpha P, ably guided by Nigerian Hip-hop icon Olamide, who offers his knowledge and many years of experience in the game to the amazing tune ‘W’. Nigerian producer Thisizlondon does well with crafting the beat, reminding us all why he is still one of the best producers in Africa.

Prepare for the ensemble cast of Burna Boy, Coldplay, Little Simz, Elyanna and Tini as they bring life to ‘We Pray’ which promises to speak to the hearts and souls of all listeners.

Odumodublvck and Shallipopi reunite again on ‘Juju’ and they are not alone on this one as Smurlee gives them a worthy assist. They hope to recapture the spark they attained with their previous smash hit single ‘Cast’ which generated so many returns.

Other hitters include Oxlade & Fally Ipupa – Ifa, Phyno & Aguero Banks – Hero, DarkoVibes – Bend Your Knees, Konstance – In The Beginning (EP), Guchi – No touching, Majeeed – Will I?, Kida Kudz – W.A.B, Bims & Zlatan – Amapiano Remix and Krizbeatz, Fave & Joshua Baraka – Touch Me.

This collective promises to bring joy, substance, relaxation and a refresh of your musical playlist. Do take time to consume these new offerings of music as we anticipate another run of sounds next week.

The post New Music Friday: African Sounds Ignite the World appeared first on African Leadership Magazine.