CKay Releases New Single
Nigerian artist CKay has released a new single, ‘African Girls’, featuring Kidd Carder, marking his second release of 2026. The track followed the release of ‘BADAMINTON’ earlier in the year.
The new song represents a change in CKay’s musical style, moving from the emotional tone of his previously described Emo-Afrobeats sound to a more dance-oriented style influenced by Nigerian nightlife and street culture.
‘African Girls’ draws inspiration from Mara, a high-energy subgenre developing within Nigeria’s street-pop and club music scene.
The song focuses on themes of celebrating and appreciating African women, and reflects CKay’s artistic evolution.
“This song is first and foremost a celebration of African women, their beauty, energy, and the way they light up every room they walk into,” CKay stated. “I wanted women to hear this record and feel confident, appreciated, and uplifted.”
CKay also characterized the release as a step in a broader change in his artistic direction.
“At the same time, this marks a new creative chapter for me. I introduced the Emo-Afrobeats sound, and now I’m exploring something with more energy, movement, and a stronger connection to the culture of Nigerian club music.
“Mara is a sound that deserves global attention, and ‘African Girls’ is my way of bringing more people into that world.”
The single is an early preview of an upcoming project expected later in 2026.
CKay previously gained recognition for songs including ‘love nwantiti (ah ah ah)’, ‘emiliana’ and ‘WAHALA’. He has collaborated with artists including Davido, Olamide, Ayra Starr, Amaarae, PinkPantheress and Janelle Monáe.
The track is currently available on digital streaming platforms.
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