Featuring new African music from Rema, Mr Eazi, Blaqbonez, Ayra Starr x David Guetta, and more.
Every week, we highlight the top Afrobeats and African music releases through our best music column, Songs You Need to Hear.
If you like these African music lists, you can also check out our Best Afrobeats and Best Amapiano of the month columns, plus our Best Songs of the Month columns following Nigerian, Ghanaian, East African and South African music.
Read ahead for our round-up of the best new African music tracks and music videos that came across our desks this week.
Rema ‘RAVAGE’ EP
Rema has released his new 5-song EP, SAVAGE, which features production from London, Blaise Beatz, and P Prime. The Benin City superstar continues to ride the massive wave of popularity following the success of “Calm Down” with this batch of infectious afro-fusion bops. “On this project, I connect with my inner flame, my inner rage,” says Rema. “It’s like an outburst on the inside of me that I’ve held in for too long. It’s not fueled with negativity, rather it’s fueled with drive, passion, and destiny. What people will hear on this project is a little exhale from me, only that it comes with fire.”
Mr Eazi ‘The Evil Genius’
Mr Eazi has released his official debut album, The Evil Genius, which offers a unique blend of Afropop and African visual art, as he’s been presenting at art galleries across the world. The 16-track album includes previous singles like “Exit,” “Advice,” and “Legalize.” It includes features from the likes of Angelique Kidjo, Tekno, Efya, Joeboy, Soweto Gospel Choir and more.
Ayra Starr x David Guetta x Lil Durk
Ayra Starrkeeps rising and now has a collaboration with EDM megastar David Guetta and Lil Durk. “Big FU” is an addictive, house-influenced production that sees Ayra taking over lead vocal duties and singing stinging lines like “A bg fuck you to my replacement / I see you’re someone else’s favorite,” which probably gives you a clearer idea of what the song is about than we can.
Blaqbonez ‘Emeka Must Shine’
Nigerian rapper Blaqbonez has shared his new album, Emeka Must Shine. The new album features collaborations with Black Sherif, Ludacris, Zlatan, Odumodublvck, Zlatan and many more. “With ‘EMEKA MUST SHINE,’ I wanted to create something that not only celebrates my personal journey but also showcases the immense talent and potential that Nigerian hip-hop possesses,” Blaqbonez mentions. “This album is a testament to my capabilities and the resilience and creativity of our music industry, and I am proud to be a part of it.”
