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  • The Very Best Nigerian Songs of 2024’s First Quarter

    Quite a few music projects have excited listeners in the last three months since 2024 started. Now that the first quarter has come to a close, we’ve selected the most impressive of the releases and unpacked them for you. The selection metrics are production, songwriting, mixing and replay value.

    Love Practitioner — Anendlessocean

    Anendlessocean has hacked crafting music that keeps lovers entangled in romance until they realise the artist is singing about his love for God. Love Practitioner follows the Afrobeats structure with Amapiano toppings while the lyrics carry the message of love (for God) that doesn’t want to let go. Believers can easily sneak this into any party playlist.

    Folake — taves

    20-year-old taves is the Afrobeats rave of the moment. After years of releasing music since he was 16, taves’ latest single, Folake, audaciously swings into the Nigerian music space in the form of a funky R&B-disco. Without tripping over his Afropop and Hip-Hop roots, taves glides the beat and beautifully bemoans the possible start of a new relationship with Folake, likely another babe he met somewhere in Ibadan.

    Fall In Love — Flavour feat. Efya

    The merit of Fall In Love isn’t based only on its execution; its composition holds cultural and pop appeal, perfected down to the Highlife undertones and breezy performance of Ghana’s Efya. Flavour and Efya harmonise to the joy of finding love again. Find Fall In Love on Flavour’s eighth studio album, “African Royalty”.

    Toxic — Bagetti

    Toxic love is unhealthy, but it’s the message behind many great songs for some reason. Bagetti throws shots at a time-wasting ex she used to be obsessed with. While it’s a fuck-you song, she wishes he wouldn’t suffer the same emotional distress she battled in the relationship. If you need a word of prayer for an ex you don’t like, here it is. 💀

    Everyday (I Dey Pray) — Kold AF & Aema

    Those who work hard deserve to eat. Singers Kold AF and Aema reiterate this on Everyday (I Dey Pray). They’re confident in the work that’s gone into their craft, and failure isn’t allowed for them.

    Demons and Angels — Wizard Chan

    Wizard Chan taps into his inner consciousness to wrestle evil and preserve his good side. Demons and Angels is about fighting his distractions and vices as he tries to gain clarity. The song production is unusual and enjoyable. Drill fused with pop and reggae? Let’s have it.

    Last Card — Brume

    “No be me kill Jesus, me I must shaye o” is the essence of Brume’s Last Card, a song about enjoyment. It’s a simple, sing-along reminder that you only live once. Chop life today; tomorrow may be too late.

    Holy Maria — Plug Music

    Budding singers, TianaOtc, AddyOX and Psyy, won’t a second more with a lover who does the barest minimum. Hot girls are up, and you need to hear it loud and clear on Holy Maria, the fourth track on “Celine” EP (an all-babes project produced by Plug Music).

    No Forget Home — Timi Dakolo

    This is a reminder not to forget one’s humble beginnings. Timi Dakolo went fully experimental without losing his core audience in this mix of contemporary and indigenous music.

    Peace of Mind — ILLBliss feat. Fave

    Fave’s melodic hook and production, and the grown-man bars ILLBliss laid, set Peace of Mind apart as one of the highlights of his new album, “Sideh Kai”. The song is about blocking out bad energy and staying calm. Something every Nigerian needs to survive the current economic landscape.

    Tomide Marv

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  • Bump This: 8 New Nigerian Gospel Songs for Your Praise and Worship

    Today’s #BumpThis is for all gospel music lovers, prayer warriors and choristers finding the latest in the gospel scene. Enjoy our playlist of the latest Nigerian Gospel songs.

    Listen here:

    Love Me First — Chidinma

    Nigerian Gospel music meets Amapiano on Chidinma’s latest song. Love Me First is her claim that God’s love for her existed before birth. Legworks can’t fail to this song of praise.

    Ojoro — Mike Abdul feat. Clement Wyte

    Ojoro, as stated in Mike Abdul’s song, is a snide remark haters drop when they see blessings falling on your lap and blame God for impartiality.

    Lolo Remix — O’Tobi feat. Drakare

    O’Tobi gets deep in his loverboy bag to describe the joy his babe gives him. God also got some shout-out for sending the babe his way. Drakare seasoned the track with a rap verse.

    Made A Way — Prince Dayo feat. Hosana

    Made A Way is a well-scored ministration song. From its slow-paced drums, guitar and keyboard chords to the choral backups, this track can never miss any time you yearn to praise and worship.

    Adonai — Stephanie Keri feat. De Muna and David Williams

    If you need gospel worship songs that sound like the clouds are open and angels are hovering around, I recommend Stephanie Keri’s Adonai. David Williams’ soothing vocals backed up Stephenie, and De Muna fueled it with her spoken word performance.

    Do to Me What You Want — Dunsin Oyekan

    In an eleven-minute-long ministration of worship and praise music, Dunsin Oyekan leads the music about totally surrendering himself to the higher power. Do to Me What You Want is a dedication song. 

    Jaiye — Kaydeegospel

    Kaydeegospel made this song so intimate one would first think it’s about a lover, but it’s God. Have a sweet relationship with God together, and make this your date soundtrack.

    He Cares — PYEFA 

    PYEFA uses his faith as a reference point for those seeking God’s face. He sings, “I no know wetin be your story, just know that Jesus Christ, he cares for you.”

    Psst! Have you seen our Valentine’s Special yet? We brought back three couples – one now with kids, one now married and the last, still best friends – to share how their relationships have evolved over the previous five years. Watch the first episode below:

    Discover the Spotify Gospel Playlists to Add to Your Morning Routine

    Tomide Marv

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  • Bump This: What the Afrobeats Guys Are Saying This Week

    For those who favour full projects over singles, for “hot off the studio” music with moods that range from party time and romance to relationship woes and melancholy, these are the best EPs that dropped during the week.

    LOVRBOY — Praiz

    Just in time for the Valentine season, Nigerian singer-songwriter, Praiz, rolled out an EP titled LOVRBOY. A collection of four songs that dig into love, longing, intimacy and the romantic notions he holds about his lover, LOVRBOY is a short and fresh project to play on repeat with your own lover.

    OLORI (The EP) — Logos Olori

    Logos Olori introduces his music in an expansive way: a seven-track project. Pop-ready and prepared for the mainstream, Logos sings about love and enjoyment with guest appearances from his label boss, Davido, on Easy On Me, and Hmm Hmm with South Africa’s Musa Keys. It may be a regurgitation of generic Afropop topics, but the production holds the music together. Logos’ melodies and tranquil delivery make his music worthy to listen to. 

    PRISMATIC BLVCK — Blvck Topia

    Blvck Topia is a digital artist and creative director with a music career spanning over three years. His latest EP, PRISMATIC BLVCK, paints visuals of sonder, love and the beauty within. He shares a peek into his escapism habits on Beautiful mind and Ah Ah, his romantic life on Bad and compares himself to Ota Benga on Blvck Boy. The production offers a potent psychedelic mood, and Topia’s vocals offer some shade from the depth of emotions. PRISMATIC BLVCK is calmness in stormy weather.

    MUIS EP — Muis

    This titular five-song EP leads with SAATI RAMONI, a sleeper Afropop bop that Muis released as a single in 2023. The song may be Afro-Adura — one of the many new sons of Afrobeats — but the EP offers more. It showcases Muis’ vocal and songwriting skills, revealing that he can hold the ears of the streets and the ladies. OMALICHA and OH MY GYAL (KUMBAYA) with producer, Ozedikus, introduced his bad-boy-next-door side in Afropop touched with dancehall. He found love he wants to keep on WAYO, and the amapiano-powered closing track, MY BABY, pulls him and this new love to the dance floor. 

    H.A.R.D — YDEE YDEE

    H.A.R.D is an acronym for Hip-Hop Across Rhythmic Dimensions. From the feel-good songs like GOOD TIME, afro-swing jam, I LIKE IT, and Afropop-edgy JEJE to the rap cuts that close out the project, H.A.R.D shows us Hip-Hop from an experimental perspective. It’s applaudable how the music producer, artist and collaborators all poured Afropop-edge into making something so thematically cohesive and representative of its title.

    It’s About A Girl — Kinj K.A.D.E 

    Dramatic and toxic relationships take centre stage on Kinj K.A.D.E’s EP It’s About A Girl. The singer displays a calm but firm grip on R&B smoothly blended with Trap Soul and Afro elements to express his versatility and aid connection with the local environment. If you’re still sentimental about an ex, or tired of relationships and thinking of entering the streets, firstly, get lost in Kinj K.A.D.E’s story about a girl and imagine it as yours.

    Our Valentine Special is here. We brought back three couples – one now with kids, one now married and the last, still best friends – to share how their relationships have evolved in the last five years. Watch the first episode below:

    Ritmo Mafiaso — Idowest

    Nigerian rapper, Idowest, just stacked his discography with a new EP, Ritmo Mafioso, meaning “mafia rhythm”. It’s a skein of street catchphrases, religious innuendos, and party and money yarnings across seven songs weaved on majorly Amapiano production. Idowest wants you on your feet, grooving.

    Hooligan / Why — Lucid

    Burgeoning Afropop singer, Lucid, starts his 2024 with a two-pack single Hooligan and Why after his introductory Hi I’m Lulu EP of 2023. In deep reflection, the first song expresses his debaucherous vices as symptomatic of his environment. Lucid hangs to the belief that if he doesn’t find time to curb these vices, he might be headed down a lost road. The song smoothly segues into his lover-boy moment on Why. Two vulnerable emotions in one pack, for the lost kids and lovebirds.

    Listen here:

    Tomide Marv

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  • These Are the 8 Cuntiest Afrobeats Songs of 2023

    Eroticism is one theme that Afrobeats effortlessly eats anytime it comes to it. Whether directly, subtly or figuratively, it’s clear through these particular songs that artists can communicate their romantic and hedonist desires well.

    Bump this:

    Ready — Sarz, Fxrtune & Pjstar

    Straight-up uncouth, Ready fills your head with Kama Sutra. This song is for the real eaters — the ones who won’t leave the sheets before a complimentary buffet.

    YAHWEH — Lojay

    Hold your church mind; don’t get it twisted that this has anything to do with God. This song supports the sweet gibberish you mutter in the course of the sloppiest “slurp-slurp”.

    Water from Wine — Amaarae

    Amaarae sings for those who’ll text back “omw” when their sneaky link calls. They just want to have a good time that’ll keep their satisfier on speed dial.

    Water — Tyla

    When realisation hits that this song isn’t about hard labour nor a conversation with a workout instructor, your mind quickly unwraps the subtle request for an intense genital meet-and-greet. As a queen who values her time, Tyla asks, “Can you blow my mind?” If she has to hustle for her own nut, you’re better off seated in your house.

    Attends — Brazy

    This fast-tempo House song takes you straight to the dance floor. When Brazy says, “Whine your waist, oda bi rubber,” you have to obey and put your flexible low waist to serious grinding. But with, “Cheat on me, I cheat on you” Brazy preaches that you pay your liaison back in their coin. 

    Amma HOE — Bizzonthetrack

    On this self-confessed jam about being a hoe, Bizzonthetrack makes it clear he’s unavailable for commitment. He’s only committed to whoring activities.

    Boytoy — SGaWD

    The sexual awareness SGaWD flaunts on Boytoy is admirable AF. This song is for the sexually liberated folks who own it with their chest. 

    Shibebe — Olamide feat. Fireboy DML

    Indoor is where the fun is at. You have all the time, space and privacy to “shibebe” (flaunt your waistbeads), Netflix and chill, do waterworks and all other sorts of debauchery. At least, that’s what Olamide Baddo and Fireboy DML said on this track.

    RECOMMENDED: The Year in Review: Nigerian Pop Events That Went Viral in 2023

    Tomide Marv

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  • Nigerian Musicians Took A Break From Amapiano This Friday

    It’s another new music Friday in Nigeria and not a single log drum or Amapiano whistle to be heard. Is the music industry slowly shifting from Amapiano and returning it back to the South Africa it came from? Well, these top Nigerian songs that dropped today are making a case for that.

    Yawa — Fireboy DML

    A groovy afropop song far removed from the Jersey sound experiment on previous single, Someone.

    Fireboy DML teamed up with music producers, Magicsticks and Telz, to make a statement about not minding haters and busybodies. He reveals a new smoking habit, and you can even hear Olamide smoothly backing him up at the end, but the clearest takeaway from the whole song is that it’s very much for the Nigerian audience.

    Angelus and My Darling — Victony

    Victony finally served us the singles he’s been teasing since June 11, 2023. On Angelus, Victony went back in time to pick inspiration from sounds reminiscent of Oliver De Coque. My Darling, produced by Ghana’s Juls, Victony continues to admonish to be in his life. No wonder Victony has been dancing in his promotional videos, these songs are groovy af.

    Sittin’ On Top Of The World (Remix) — Burna Boy ft. 21 Savage

    Burna Boy first released this single on the 2nd of June, but it didn’t pick up as you’d expect. Today, he re-released Sittin’ On Top Of The World with a verse from British-American rapper, 21 Savage. Hip-hop’s influence is clear on this remix; another proof Burna doesn’t miss when he links with foreign rappers.

    My Own — Major AJ ft. Blaqbonez

    Major AJ tapped his labelmate, Blaqbonez, to collaborate on this song. They’re saying what most people already know: finding love in Lagos is the hardest. My Own is a chilled bop with choral backup and serenading trumpets. It sounds inspired by Burna Boy’s Last Last, but with it, Major AJ shows he’s a versatile artist who can’t be boxed.

    Sokoto — Minz ft. Zinoleesky

    Apparently, Minz is now in a better position compared to the pre-release of Wo Wo, and he’s less-concerned about what detractors have to say about him and his music. His new single, Sokoto, is a party jam that explores his sexcapes. Coming from the success of Wo Wo single, Minz links with Zinoleesky to bring this sensual song to life. It’s afrobeats with a sprinkle of house music, produced by Babybeats and Mike Bgrz.

    Chasing Wind — Tim Lyre

    There’s nothing like staying original to your sound as a musician, perfecting it while dropping quality projects. Alternative singer-songwriter and producer, Tim Lyre, has made himself a standout among peers with his unconventional approach and reggae-influenced tone. On his latest single, Chasing Wind, he details the burden of dream-chasing.

    Pariwo — Mohbad & Bella Shmurda

    Since Adura came out in 2020, these two have returned with Pariwo, an uptempo song, telling whoever cares to listen that they’re unavailable for stressful conversations. Mohbad warns that he’s not in a playful mode, and no one should step on his toes. Pariwo is a testimony to the trajectory of their careers and how far they intend to go.

    Eleyele — Taves

    Taves is BNXN, fka Buju’s, new signee. His debut, Eleyele, is a laid-back fusion of afropop and r&b. On it, Taves bares his feelings about longing for a faraway lover.

    Submit your contribution here.

    Tomide Marv

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  • TGIF: The Hottest New Jams For Homebodies

    New Music Friday hasn’t seen this surge of new music in a long while. 

    In observance of music that came out last Friday and this one, here are the different types of homebodies: 

    The TGIF hypeman:

    All week, you’ve been tweeting about your desire for the weekend to come quickly so you can enjoy yourself.

    Today’s Friday and you’ve thanked God for it. But somehow, it’s already midnight, and you’re still in pyjamas. I think we can agree that you’re not going anywhere. You can still be hyped sha, enjoy these new club jams that’ll keep your neighbours sleepless and vexed but entertained still.

    Kizz Daniel – Shu Peru

    Kinfxlk feat. Tomi Obanure, Lobi – Kinfxlk Party

    Yôrkk – Run!

    MOJO AF & Ronehi – Sex Appeal

    Ruger – Jonzing

    Bella Shmurda & Tiwa Savage – Non Stop Vibe (NSV)

    Smada feat. OdumoduBlvck – Papilo

    KCee & Skiibii – Dum Dum

    Sarz feat. Millymay_pod, Gimba & Fxrtune – Jam One Kele

    The tired

    You work hard all week but no flexing time in your calendar. Hot babe like you. Do you, but let it not be you that’s not sleeping on the night of May 26th to preserve energy for our HERtitude 2023, happening on May 27th. All the hot babes are coming to the yard! Cop your tix here.

    Jams for your tired ass:

    Obongjayar – Just Cool

    Fasina – Reload

    No-days off

    Unfinished office work followed you home. Sorry dear, meet your KPIs and don’t shame your manager. Teni Makani and others got you, though.

    Teni – No Days Off

    Kayode feat. PsychoYP & OdumoduBlvck – Blessings

    RECOMMENDED: #BumpThis: Sarz Brings Millymay_pod, Gimba and Fxrtune Onboard for the Party-Starting Anthem, “Jam One Kele”

    In your feelings

    If you’re in your feelings and would rather sit out this Friday’s outing, let these songs be your comfort.

    Slimsyxx – Heart Off Sleeves

    Tneeya – Complete

    Aisé Maryah – Close To You

    Blaqbonez feat. Ludacris – Cinderella Girl (Where You Dey?)

    Bob Marley & The Wailers feat. Tiwa Savage – Waiting In Vain

    Joeboy & CKay – Wetin Be Love

    Omah Lay feat. Ozuna – Soso Remix

    Inside with LOYL

    Tay Iwar & Twelve XII – Undercover Lover

    Ugoccie – Ifenkili

    Tyla feat. Arya Starr – Girl Next Door

    Brum3h – Hold You Down

    Oxlade feat. Flavour – Ovami

    Keep your romance hot with these love tunes.

    Can’t go out alone

    Your friend said they’re too busy for an outing because their boo is around. Sorry, dear. Maybe your own person will find you soon. Not if you’re always inside sha.

    1da Banton – Nibolowa

    The miser

    You’re always telling others they’re being ripped off. Better spend that money. 

    Can’t afford outside

    The country is hard, no funds to sponsor enjoyment. You can’t touch your savings. Buhari, you do this one.

    Hyper Montana feat. Dapo Tuburna – Fears & Worries

    Buju BNXN – Pray

    DJ Tunez ft. Wizkid & Gimba – Blessings

    Wande Coal – 3 Square Meal

    Sean Tizzle – Al Barakah

    Tomide Marv

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  • #BumpThis: Sarz Brings Millymay_pod, Gimba and Fxrtune Onboard for the Party-Starting Anthem, “Jam One Kele”

    If there’s one thing everyone should know by now, it’s Sarz is nobody’s mate. The superstar music producer delivers bangers year after year, proving his incredible chemistry with a wide range of artists — from headliners like Wizkid and Niniola to under-the-radar singers like Lojay and Obongjayar. It doesn’t matter whether you’ve had a hit before or not; with Sarz, you’re guaranteed one. 

    Sarz goes hard alongside Millymay_pod, Gimba and Fxrtune, for his first official single of 2023, Jam One Kele, the lead single off MTLF II — a compilation album by the 15 talents (artists and producers) of The Sarz Academy, Session Three. 

    RECOMMENDED: Lojay’s Monalisa is Better than Da Vinci’s Mona Lisa, Let’s Discuss

    Produced by the trio of Twitchpapii, Bombocat and Oddwave, Jam One Kele leans heavily on Caribbean influences to deliver the perfect summer anthem (if only we had summer in Nigeria for real). Gimba skates over the beat with an unforgettable hook, while Millymay_pod and Fxrtune trade verses that set the stage for a night of slow whining, alcohol and unlimited rocks. 

    While Millymay_pod, Gimba and Fxrtune each carry this song on their back with impeccable delivery, Sarz takes charge as the curator of the track, showcasing his ear for great music and even greater artists — including P.Priime, Tempoe and Dunnie — way before the world takes note of their greatness. 

    Jam One Kele feels like the party starter we’ve all been waiting for. 

    Listen to the track 

    ALSO READ: Sarz’s Biggest Bangers Ranked by Twerkability

    Conrad Johnson-Omodiagbe

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  • #BumpThis: Kold AF, Pheelz, Teezee and Cruel Santino Are Here to Elevate Your Playlist

    So much new music is released that it’s hard for even the most loyal fans to wade through the crows to find gems to listen to. But that’s where I come in with #BumpThis — our Friday series recommending new songs by and featuring Nigerians you absolutely need to hear.

    Here are my picks for the week:

    Kold SZN — Kold AF 

    There’s nothing like listening to artists who have figured out their sound right out of the gate. After an impressive run of features with Moelogo, Kaey and MoGunz, Afrofusion artist, Kold AF (I want to steal this name), has made her solo debut with the EP aptly titled Kold SZN. 

    From a night of fun and seduction on Wasted to using booze and music to deal with the trauma of a toxic relationship on Blues, Kold AF presents a five-minute preview into the different aspects of navigating love and life as a young Nigerian. This is a bold artistic introduction. I only wish it was longer. 

    Ballin — Pheelz 

    2022 has undoubtedly been a great year for Pheelz and everyone who bet in favour of the producer-turned-singer. For those who bet against him, Ballin is specially dedicated to you. After dropping two of the most inescapable songs of the year — Finesse with BNXN and Electricity with Davido — Pheelz caps things off with Ballin, a song that fully affirms his position as one of the biggest hitmakers of the moment. 

    On Ballin, Pheelz swims in a lavish pool of confidence, calling himself the “King of the dance hall”, as he calmly drags everyone, who said he wouldn’t make it, by their edges. It’s another potentially infectious hit from the singer, proving yet again that he deserves our attention. 

    Ku Lo Sa (Remix) — Oxlade and Camila Cabello 

    Oxlade’s Ku Lo Sa is hands down one of the biggest songs of 2022. From viral TikTok videos to soundtracking Rihanna’s Savage X Fenty show, Ku Lo Sa was the gift that kept on giving, until now. Towing the same line as Wizkid with his Justin Bieber Essence remix and Rema’s Selena Gomez-assisted version of Calm Down, Oxlade scores his own “I must climb the charts” collaboration with Havana singer, Camila Cabello. 

    While the Ku Lo Sa remix won’t go down as the worst international remix we’ve heard this year, it joins a list of remixes that feel forced and mismatched — Camila sounds like she’s on a different song on most parts. That being said, it’s still worth your listen. Hopefully, it’s a grower, not a shower. 

    RECOMMENDED: Oxlade Breaks Down 5 Essential Lyrics From Debut Project, ‘Oxygene’

    Dreams — Ajebo Hustlers 

    2020 was a wild year for everyone, but for Ajebo Hustlers, it must’ve been ten times more insane. While we all dealt with the effects of a global pandemic, the #EndSARS protests and inflation, the Ajebo Hustler boys also dealt with newfound fame after their single, Barawo, became a nationwide hit. 

    Two years later, armed with hits like Loyalty and Pronto, Ajebo Hustlers is back with Bad Boy Etiquette 101, an EP that explores the effects of fame on love and relationships. While Fave and Mayourkun make appearances on the EP, the non-feature song, Dreams, stands out. On it, the artists are raw and honest about desperately blocking out distractions to focus on the music. 

    Manhattan — Teezee and Cruel Santino 

    Anyone who followed alté music from the start will confidently describe artists like BOJ, Teezee and Show Dem Camp as pioneers of the movement, while Cruel Santino, Lady Donli and Odunsi the Engine helped cement its presence in pop culture. So, Manhattan, a song bya pioneer and an icon of the movement, sounds like an alté wet dream. 

    Leveraging their individual strengths, both Teezee and Cruel Santino ride on a beat that’d fit perfectly on Santino’s debut project Mandy and the Jungle, as they sing (and rap) about everything they’d do for the girl they like. No one saw Manhattan coming, but boy are we glad it’s here.  

    ALSO READ: These Alté Nigerian Musicians Don’t Look Like Their Government Names

    Conrad Johnson-Omodiagbe

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  • #BumpThis: Zinoleesky, Tiwa Savage, Aylø, Morachi and DJ Tunez Return With Potential Hits

    Ladies, gents and non-binary friends, it’s another Friday. We won, guys; no capitalism for two whole days! Small victory, but a victory nonetheless. To celebrate this short break, here are some of the songs that popped on my radar this week that you should definitely add to your playlist. 

    Please don’t say I didn’t do anything for you. 

    Jaiye Foreign — Zinoleesky and Tiwa Savage 

    One of the best parts about Tiwa Savage’s career is her ability to serve range back to back. Are you looking for ballads? She’s got you with Olorun Mi. Are you down to get the party rocking? Best believe Koroba and Diet will be on your DJ’s setlist. 

    Teaming up with one of the hottest stars of the moment, Zinoleesky, for Jaiye Foreign, Tiwa shows that versatility yet again. Zinoleesky feels at home with that amapiano bassline in the background he’s known for, but Ms. Savage’s vocals steal the show for me. 

    Hey! — Aylø and Tera Kora 

    There’s nothing like knowing your sound as a musician, cultivating that sound and just killing it time after time. While Aylø might not be the most popular by-product of the alté crossover from SoundCloud to the music charts, his reggae-influenced sound and distinct tone have always gotten my attention.

    On his latest single, Hey!, Aylø seems to be searching for answers, and like most Nigerians, he turns to prayer. His prayer might not be directed at any deity in particular, but his longing makes me pray they get answered soon. 

    RECOMMENDED: These Alté Nigerian Musicians Don’t Look Like Their Government Names

    F.D.P (Fire Di Party) — DJ Tunez and AV

    If there’s one thing AV will do on a song, it’s give you a memorable opening line. On his 2021 breakout hit, Big Thug Boys, he started with, “If you get a woman, hold am tight o,” warning everyone that he’s not above scattering relationships. And on F.D.P with DJ Tunez, it’s, “How many kele man go fit knack oh?”

    While AV doesn’t necessarily sing about anything new on F.D.P, it’s still about having women in different area codes, but his melodies over DJ Tunez and Kulboy’s mid-tempo beats provide the perfect party starter. 

    Selah — Morachi

    I wasn’t the only one Morachi had in a chokehold when he dropped Hapuya Lyke That way back in 2007. Waists were whining, and backs were breaking on the dance floor — or at least in my room — every time the song came on. 

    However, on Selah, Morachi’s new single, we get to experience a different side of the artist. The beat has been slowed down to allow Morachi flex his loverboy muscles without distractions, and boy, does he eat up this song. I love a good rebrand or, in this case, evolution, so I’m totally here for this soft and romantic version of Morachi. 

    No Closure — Mannywellz 

    Please, if you’re the one that served Mannywellz’ breakfast, kindly step forward. Since dropping his 2020 EP, Mirage, Mannywellz has constantly sang about heartbreak, finally loving himself on A Million with Wale, and letting go of relationship baggage on Peace with Tems. 

    On No Closure, Mannywellz finds himself at the heartbreak bus stop one more time. While he sings about dancing to celebrate the end of a relationship, there’s a high chance he’ll be back singing about heartbreak again in a couple of weeks. Pele my dear. 

    QUIZ: Make a Playlist and We’ll Tell You How to Spend Your Weekend

    Conrad Johnson-Omodiagbe

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  • #BumpThis: P-Square Is Back, BNXN vs. Ruger, M.I Abaga and More

    It’s another Friday, and after soaking in Omah Lay’s Boy Alone all week, we’re ready to get into some new music. From Jos legends, P-Square and M.I Abaga, making comebacks to a new song from BNXN and a remix with Ruger, these songs should be on your radar as you step into the weekend. 

    Jaiye (Ihe Geme) — P-Square 

    Mary Slessor must be feeling funky right now because our favourite twins are back and thriving! Five years after breaking hearts worldwide with their separation, Rudeboy and Mr P are back as P-Square and armed with an explosive new single, Jaiye (Ihe Geme). 

    Jaiye (Ihe Geme) gives us classic P-Square with traces of amapiano and the anthem-like chorus new school artists like Asake have made famous. A hyper party song that shows us our faves still have their magic touch, Jaiye (Ihe Geme) is a masterclass on how to evolve your sound as an artist and make a comeback people will not forget. 

    The Guy — M.I Abaga

    When M.I Abaga wants to go hard, the short black boy from J-Town goes HAM! Hitting us with the title track to his long-awaited album, The Guy, M.I goes for necks and careers, reminding everyone he’s a “five-star general” in this rap thing. 

    Name dropping everyone from Vector to Tiwa Savage, and firing shady shots at Glo users, M.I’s flow on this track is crisp and confident. While social media back-and-forths may have created a dent in M.I’s iconic status, The Guy sounds like the redemption we’ve all been waiting for.

    RECOMMENDED: These New Rappers Show Us That Rap in Nigeria Is Far From Dead

    Kenkele — BNXN and Wande Coal 

    Since Feeling took over the summer of 2021, BNXN has done his best to ensure we don’t miss him for more than four weeks. From EPs and name changes to social media beef, he’s worked harder than the National Grid’s urge to collapse every two days.

    Teaming up with Wande Coal for the mid-tempo earworm, Kenkele, BNXN may have struck gold again. Kenkele has vocals as smooth as butter and all the makings of a TikTok hit. We’re still waiting for a full album from him, but we’ll hold on to Kenkele for now. 

    Miniskirt Remix — Raebel and Ruger 

    Raebel’s Miniskirt is one of those songs that stops you in your tracks the first time you hear it. Singing about the familiar feeling of trying to convince someone you’re the right person for them, Miniskirt was already a niche hit. 

    Dropping gaslighting 101 lyrics like, “They say I’m not good for you, and they’re right”, Ruger is the toxic but perfect fit for a remix of Miniskirt. He might’ve elevated this song to another level, and we’re totally here for it. 

    Shaye — Magixx 

    After killing it with his debut single, Love Don’t Cost a Dime — and its remix with Ayra Starr — Mavin-signee, Magixx is back with Shaye to help us get the party started. 

    A perfect song to close out the week, Magixx sings about drinking Hennessy and lighting a blunt despite all the problems in our lives. After all, this life is one. Why spend all your time worrying about issues you’ll still meet on Monday, when you can Shaye today.

    ALSO READ: We Need These Nigerian Musicians to Create More Joint Projects

    Conrad Johnson-Omodiagbe

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  • #BumpThis: Teni, Wizkid and Ice Prince Return With Potential Hits
    There’s so much new music being released that it’s hard for even the most loyal fans to wade through the trash to find the gems. That’s why we’ve created #BumpThis – a Friday series that features new songs, by and featuring Nigerians, you absolutely need to hear. 

    We made it to Friday! Whether or not you accomplished anything this week, you deserve to pat yourself on the back and celebrate. As your resident music “expert”, I’ve decided to put you on to some good stuff to get your weekend vibe right. 

    Dig in. 

    Little (Love I Love) — Teni 

    When Teni loves, she loves real hard — this babe threatened to fight agberos on 2018’s Case and offered up all her money for love on last year’s For You with Davido. On her latest amapiano-inspired single, Little (Love I Love), Teni tells us, “Na love I love, I no kill somebody”. Sis, are you sure? 

    Call Me Every Day — Chris Brown and Wizkid

    After three songs together, I won’t be shocked if Wizkid and Chris Brown drop a joint EP. While Call Me Every Day is a single off Chris’ new album, Breezy, the vibe of the song feels very Wizkid. It’s almost like Chris is the featured artist and the song is a leftover from Made in Lagos. One thing I know for sure, though, is a lot of waists will be broken to this song. So, please, lube it up. 

    Hustle — Ice Prince, Seyi Vibez and Ceeza Milli

    “Hustle no dey kill nobody o!” Errm, Ice Prince, have you met me? I don’t like stress, please. After killing it last year with Oxlade on KOLO, Ice Prince is back with another potential banger, Hustle featuring Seyi Vibez and Ceeza Milli. If you liked Pheelz and BNXN’s Finesse like a normal human being, there’s a high chance you’d be into Hustle. Both songs have the same sing-along chants that just get Nigerians going!

    RECOMMENDED: Nigerian Singers, Leave Folake Alone and Focus on These Other Women

    Daylight — Bigfootinyourface and Dwin, The Stoic

    Oontz oontz music is finally getting the public recognition it deserves, and I’m here for it. Like Drake’s Honestly, Nevermind album and Beyoncé’s Break My Soul, Daylight by Bigfootinyourface and Dwin, The Stoic is another house music that reminds us to forget capitalism and party. While we love Dwin’s soothing voice convincing us to dance until daylight, the Nigerian in us doesn’t fully agree with the “there’s nothing to lose” line sha. 

    Let You Down — Boybreed

    Even though Boybreed have two EPs and collaborations with Patoranking and Ycee under their belts, I didn’t know about them until last night. Yes, I messed up. Their newest single, Let You Down — lowkey reminds me of 2016 to 2017 Maleek Berry — is a vulnerable yet solid exploration of grief. It’s like, do I want to cry or do I want to dance? Let’s do both.  

    Mind — Romi 

    Listening to Romi’s Mind, I couldn’t help but say “Oh shit!” repeatedly. This is a solid song for a debut or just for an artist in general. While the reflective song slightly suffers in differentiating Romi’s vocal identity from the myriad of young Afropop singers we have today, its catchy melody and hook will worm their way into your head and stay there.  

    I’m curious to see what Romi puts out next with a song like Mind. 

    ALSO READ: These Alté Nigerian Musicians Don’t Look Like Their Government Names

    Conrad Johnson-Omodiagbe

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  • #BumpThis: Olamide’s “Wonma!”

    There’s so much new music being released that it’s hard for even the most loyal fans to wade through the trash to find the gems. That’s why we’ve created #BumpThis – a Friday series that features new songs, by and featuring Nigerians, that you absolutely need to hear.

    Olamide — “Wonma!”

    After Olamide went a whole year without dropping a project — an unprecedented move by the hard-working star — he’s finally come through with a new EP, 999.

    While the project leans more into Olamide’s hip-hop roots than anything he’s dropped in a long while, he still makes room for a radio-friendly banger, “Wonma!”.

    On the Cracker Mallo-produced track, Olamide sings about how difficult it is to satisfy a woman. Granted, it’s not the most thoughtful song on the EP, but it’s certainly the most fun.

    NerdEfiko

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  • #BumpThis: Mayorkun’s “Geng” & Jamal Swiss’ “Lifestyle”

    There’s so much new music being released that it’s hard for even the most loyal fans to wade through the trash to find the gems. That’s why we’ve created #BumpThis – a Friday series that features new songs, by and featuring Nigerians, that you absolutely need to hear.

    Mayorkun — “Geng”

    Mayorkun is one of the most gifted afropop stars working today, and every new song reaffirms that fact. For his first release of the year, “Geng”, he proves that he’s even capable of turning a freestyle into a certified bop.

    On “Geng”, Mayorkun seems to be having more fun than he’s ever had on a track, as he calls out posers and brags about his crew. It’s an exciting start for DMW’s not-so-secret weapon, prepping us for what’s to come.

    Jamal Swiss — “Lifestyle” ft. Remy Baggins

    A criminally underrated star, Jamal Swiss is yet to drop a weak song. For his first release of 2020, he keeps that same energy, enlisting the silky-voiced Remy Baggins for the hypnotic “Lifestyle”.

    On the Jay Blakez-produced track, Jamal raps about the allure of his party-hopping lifestyle. A perfect fit for the track, the talented Remy delivers a killer hook that effortlessly complements Jamal’s solid verses.

    NerdEfiko

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  • #BumpThis: Tiwa Savage’s “Attention”

    There’s so much new music being released that it’s hard for even the most loyal fans to wade through the trash to find the gems. That’s why we’ve created #BumpThis – a Friday series that features new songs, by and featuring Nigerians, that you absolutely need to hear.

    Following her first solo single of the year, the socially-conscious “49-99”, Tiwa Savage has now come through with two brand new singles, “Owo Mi Da” and “Attention”, with the latter being the stronger release.

    On “Attention”, produced by Blaq Jerzee, Tiwa Savage sings about a lover who has stopped putting in the work. “If you no give me quality attention, I might get it from someone else”, she threatens on the chorus.

    While the song might not have the party-starting bounce of “49-99” or “Owo Mi Da”, it benefits from being very relatable. “I guarantee all the ladies will know the lyrics to this one”, she said pre-release, and we believe her.

    NerdEfiko

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  • #BumpThis: Burna Boy’s “My Money, My Baby”

    There’s so much new music being released that it’s hard for even the most loyal fans to wade through the trash to find the gems. That’s why we’ve created #BumpThis – a Friday series that features new songs, by and featuring Nigerians, that you absolutely need to hear.

    Burna Boy — “My Money, My Baby”

    Burna Boy has had a monumental 2019, mostly due to the success of his career-best album, African Giant. Well, the afro-fusion star has continued his winning streak, appearing on the star-studded soundtrack for upcoming Oscar-hopeful, Queen & Slim. 

    On the Afrobeat track, “My Money, My Baby”, Burna Boy samples Fela’s “Shakara”, and the outcome is unsurprisingly fantastic. His performance on the song has a raw, freewheeling nature to it, making it one of the most instantly memorable things he’s done this year.

    Since Queen & Slim follows the story of a black couple on the run from the police — reminiscent of the iconic tale of Bonnie and Clyde — it makes sense that “My Money, My Baby” is all about Burna Boy and his lover becoming felons after he kills someone. 

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vcK-9RTuDqc

    NerdEfiko

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  • #BumpThis: Ezi Emela’s “Tables Turn”

    There’s so much music out there that it’s hard for even the most loyal fans to stay up with their favourite artists or what’s new and hot right now. That’s why we’ve created #BumpThis – a daily series that features the one song you need to listen to, every day. Don’t say we never did anything for you.

    It’s hard to pin Ezi Emela or her music down. The sultry singer has a habit for showing up with infrequent releases, only to withdraw from the public eye just as quickly. Hers is not an unusual case. Emerging artists often have to balance their efforts, visibility and expectations in a space where talent, or a great brand, isn’t enough to assure success. But the singer is relatively well-known, even if you can’t help but think she should be a lot bigger than she is.

    On her newest release, “Tables Turn”, Ezi Emela addresses the empty promises and disloyalty that may have affected her pace and led many to see her as a hobbyist in the last few years. Against the backdrop of trap drums and a light piano riff, the singer holds little back and calls out everyone who’s selling her dreams and wasting her time. She doesn’t go as far as calling names but as usual, the singer’s in diva mode. The sensuality that runs through all her music combines with a level of aggression that forces you or anyone who’s called her gift into question to see her in a new light.

    “You gon’ learn that the tables turn”, the most recurring line on the song, sounds like a warning. We can’t wait to see how she plans to prove her point.

    Segun Akande

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  • #BumpThis: Oxlade’s “Legend”

    There’s so much music out there that it’s hard for even the most loyal fans to stay up with their favourite artists or what’s new and hot right now. That’s why we’ve created #BumpThis – a daily series that features the one song you need to listen to, every day. Don’t say we never did anything for you.

    Not since Wande Coal has an audience and artists alike been as voracious in their praise of an upstart as they are of Oxlade, the 22-year singer from Surulere who made “Shugar” and “Causing Trouble” w/ Dj Tunez.

    He has cosigns saying the exact same thing from NotJustOk founder, Ovie and one of his closest peers, Blaqbonez. On “Legend”, his third major release in a matter of months, Oxlade creates a self-fulfilling prophecy that shows why.

    The horns and backing vocals on “Legend” sound like what happens when a Jon Bellion OST meets the women of a Nigerian church choir. The melody created is fitting because of Oxlade’s against all odds story.

    https://www.instagram.com/p/By5ji5zASY6/

    One of the best things about Oxlade and thus this song is that he sings like he has no other option. Passion oozes when he sings painfully about being rebuffed by his family for choosing music over more formal professions – “Family no wan gree make I do music, Them say which of my brothers wey dey do music“. It’s a scenario that is instantly relatable for any average Nigerian who’s ever tried to convince their parents to see the value of a life spent chasing one’s dreams.

    And like the melody and the backing vocals, the songwriting elevates the entire song -“No be me sabi pass, I no be Xavi” – is the kind of cheeky line that makes you chuckle but ultimately reminds you that Olaitan knows where he stands and what he’s doing.

    Oxlade’s “Legend” drips with a certain self-awareness of his promise. He says he recorded it in 2017 – before his more popular hit, “Shugar” which makes it even more poignant. Self-assurance never sounded so good.

    It’s time to talk about Oxlade.

    Listen to Oxlade’s “Legend” here.

    Segun Akande

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  • #BumpThis: Candy Bleakz – “Owo Osu” w/ Zlatan & Naira Marley

    There’s so much music out there that it’s hard for even the most loyal fans to stay up with their favourite artists or what’s new and hot right now. That’s why we’ve created #BumpThis – a daily series that features the one song you need to listen to, every day. Don’t say we never did anything for you.

    In 2017, the Migos were at the top of their fame. Every rap-leaning artist who hadn’t created an identity set in stone had jumped on this three-tiered wave whether in sound, cadence or appearance. The Street Billionaires, a group of four rappers, Gbafun, IJay, Candy Bleakz and Lemon, seemed to be the most intense iteration of that wave.

    The group’s 2016 debut was a refix of Migos’ “Bad and Boujee” which earned them a sizeable following. The music video in particular presented them as the Nigerian street version of the group, complete with their eponymous flow, outlandish jewellery and rainbow-hued shirts.

    The group’s first lady, Candy Bleakz, rides yet another wave with her debut, “Owo Osu”. Over the last two years, Candy’s grown her following on Instagram with freestyles and comedic commentary – increasingly one of the more popular scripts for success in the digital age. To find her way around her solo debut, she enlists help from two heavyweights of the Zanku sound, Zlatan and Naira Marley.

    Street Billionaires – “Bad and Boujee (Refix)” | YouTube

    Their Chocolate City affiliation didn’t drum up much attention. But a 2018 follow-up, “Owo Mi Da” hinted that for these less-than-privileged former hobbyists (The budget for the video for “Bad and Boujee Refix” was 95,000 naira), the Migos wave was merely a starting point.

    Zlatan Ibile, arguably the breakout star of 2019, repels any suspicions that he has eyes anywhere but on the bag. It’s one of the common tropes of the Zanku sound he has helped popularise; aspirational raps by young hustlers intent on getting paid, not surprising considering the street lifestyle and bootstrapping that birthed the sound.

    He delivers a typical high-energy verse, building on the familiar adlibs, like “Kuronbe!” that dot the song from start to finish. See, Zlatan is not in the business of performing for free or a half-full bag, as he emphasises. Then as if to press the point home, he asks one of his more chronic debtors why he’s guzzling cold bottles of beer if he hasn’t paid up.

    Turns out she could do without them. Candy’s rebellious-girl-next-door persona is more believable than you’d expect as she teases anyone who’s broke and unfortunately within earshot in her native Yoruba. “Sho ti gb’owo osu” (Have you gotten your monthly pay?), she asks matter-of-factly.

    Candy’s lyrics seem to taunt salary earners and the inevitable spending limits that come with a fixed income. As the song goes on, it becomes obvious that ‘owo osu‘, (literally ‘salary’ in Yoruba), is an epithet for just about any source of income. 

    Candy Bleakz – “Owo Osu” w/ Naira Marley & Zlatan | YouTube

    Zlatan’s BFF, Naira Marley has only just secured a temporary respite from detention, after being charged for internet fraud in May. His verse here doubles down on the gleeful boss talk that caught the attention of the EFCC and earned him the troop of fans he calls “Marlians“.

    “Money is money, my guy. As long as it’s not Ogun Owo (Blood Money), my guy“, he proclaims. Statements like that will obviously do nothing to help the rapper’s cause or absolve him of any suspicions.

    But it is totally on-brand – Naira Marley has increasingly begun to feel like everyone’s problematic friend. You swear you’re against anything he stands for. That’s until he come through with the best cruise you’ve had in ages and you suddenly decide he’s a necessary evil. Here, it manifests in how this subtle nod to fraud is most likely to be the part of the song that sticks in your head, along with the other reckless boasts that he splatters on his verse.

    Whatever scepticism you may have about Zanku and its potential lifespan, or its alleged ties to internet fraud, Candy Bleakz’s summer bop is a necessary reminder to secure the bag. Enjoy the guap (and the music) while it lasts.

    Stream “Owo Osu” by Candy Bleakz w/ Zlatan Ibile and Naira Marley here.

    Segun Akande

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  • #BumpThis: Santi and Krisirie’s “RX-64 (The Jungle)”

    There’s so much music out there that it’s hard for even the most loyal fans to stay up with their favourite artists or what’s new and hot right now. That’s why we’ve created #BumpThis – a daily series that features the one song you need to listen to, every day. Don’t say we never did anything for you.

    In many ways, multi-hyphenate creator, Santi has become the conter-cultural poster child for what is now designated as the alte scene; a cultural movement–inspired by influences as varied as contemporary Japanese anime, the pop culture of Nigeria’s 80s and 90s, or 2000s soul–that is emerging primarily out of Lagos, Nigeria.

    “RX-64 (The Jungle)“, a cut off Santi’s just-released studio album “Mandy And The Jungle” is a testament to the global aspirations that have helmed his approach since the career-defining “Suzie’s Funeral” put him on the radar–and got nods by Ebro Darden and OVO Sound.

    “You rock steady, I rock hard, yea, yea“, Santi opens a tale of two ragers, riding hard, away from all distractions on an island of his own design. It is a soundtrack to a fated love; Santi’s worries ask on the hook, “Can I trust you with my life?” ever so smoothly over groovy percussion-driven production by Odunsi The Engine, a frequent Santi collaborator and another face of the alte scene.

    https://www.instagram.com/p/Bw3IkuHn1l4/

    Not many Nigerian fans will be familiar with Barbadian Singer, Krisirie. She introduces herself as the fellow rager/love interest in Santi’s jungle with the kind of ease that I aspire to reach across every aspect of my life. Her impassioned take on reggae and R&B melodies complements Santi’s hyper-melodic crooning, thus providing some needed tailwind midway through the song.

    In a manner similar to cuts like “Steal A Dime“, another Santi & Odunsi collaboration, melodies hold it all together. Since its first sprouts emerged in the early 2010s, there have been fears and assertions that the alte scene may not be everyone’s cup of tea. For what it’s worth, RX-64 is one of those songs that defy specific or mainstream tastes. It’s just enjoyable; you can’t fight that.

    Stream Santi’s “Mandy And The Jungle” here.

    Segun Akande

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