A wave of new releases from African artists and collaborators arrived this week, spanning Afrobeats, dancehall, gqom, and alternative R&B.
Jorja Smith and Wizkid: “Alive”
British vocalist Jorja Smith and Nigerian star Wizkid team up on the log-drum-driven track “Alive.” The song centers on devotion and late-night intimacy, with Smith singing, “We be up all night/ how could you ever think twice when it comes to you and I?” Wizkid’s verse reinforces the theme: “I got the type of love wey go make you feel your best.”
Oriiginelle: ‘Loving This Black Woman’
Eswatini-born emcee and vocalist Oriiginelle has released her fourth full-length album, Loving This Black Woman. The 14-track project follows an online poll in which fans helped select a single, and features contributions from Jay Jody, Saul Madiope, 21 Oranges, and Nyota Parker, representing Lesotho, South Africa, and the DR Congo. The album is built on richly textured production and Oriiginelle’s control of mood and flow.
Mr Eazi and Vybz Kartel: “Lambo”
Mr Eazi returns with a dancehall single, “Lambo,” enlisting producer Dre Skull and Jamaican deejay Vybz Kartel. The track follows Mr Eazi’s recent R&B collaboration with King Promise and marks another stylistic pivot for the emPawa label founder.
Gina Jeanz: “Ride”
Namibia-born, Zurich-based producer Gina Jeanz has shared “Ride,” a hypnotic house-influenced cut anchored by a menacing bassline and piano stabs reminiscent of ’90s house. “I wanted to create something that feels grounding but liberating at the same time,” Jeanz said, “a record that connects people through rhythm while carrying that feeling of warmth, openness and escape.”
Lelowhatsgood: ‘Rebirth Is Necessary’ EP
South African DJ and producer Lelowhatsgood, a SAMA nominee, has issued the five-track EP Rebirth Is Necessary. Rooted in gqom, the project stretches into Afro-tech, rap, and house, with guests including Espacio Dios on “Ba Ko Kae?,” Lazarusman and Kiing Bhutie on “Mind ur Business,” and Unkle Ken, Rifle Deep, Thobeka, and SunOrnza on “Ngiw’loGogo.”
Maglera Doe Boy and Flvme: “Yahoo Boyz”
South African rapper Maglera Doe Boy links with Flvme on “Yahoo Boyz,” produced by Oro WaAfrica, Big Les, and Zoocci Coke Dope. The track weaves an orchestral sample into a menacing backdrop as Maglera Doe Boy draws parallels between his cross-border connections and underground networks: “My lil’ bro Yahoo, yeah he a scammer/ I sent the VPN, told him make a plan.”
Anabel Rose: “Blase”
Ghanaian artist Anabel Rose’s latest single “Blase” is built around a thick, tension-releasing synth line. The production creates an immersive, enveloping atmosphere that sits within the current wave of alternative West African sounds.
ZuluMecca
Rapper and actor ZuluMecca continues to build a solo career that gained momentum after lockdown, drawing on a grimmer side of rap. She maintains a dedicated following through a steady stream of output.
