10 Songs You Need To Hear This Week’ is a 10-track-listing playlist highlighting the best songs released over the past few days from Africa and the Caribbean (Jamaica).
Follow and like our playlists on Boomplay, Audiomack, Spotify & Apple Music for weekly updates.
King Promise ft. Gabzy – Perfect Combi
Ghana’s very own King Promise is back with another musical gem to round off the year on a high note. The artist, known for his soulful and melodic Afrobeat tunes, has just released ‘Perfect Combi,’ a song that’s sure to strike a chord with music lovers everywhere.
King Promise’s musical journey in 2023 has been nothing short of spectacular. He kicked off the year with the chart-topping hit ‘Terminator,’ which made waves not only in Ghana but across the global music scene. The success of ‘Terminator’ was further solidified with a remix by acclaimed producer Young Jonn.
As the year draws to a close, King Promise continues to bless us with his musical prowess. ‘Perfect Combi’ is a collaboration with London-based Afro-fusion artist Gabzy. This track is a mellow and soulful love anthem that employs King Promise’s signature style. The song is all about love, and King Promise’s silky vocals combined with Gabzy’s Afro-fusion touch make for a perfect musical blend.
Offei – Butterfly Season (Album)
Offei delves deep into the multifaceted world of love. “Butterfly Season” intricately explores the diverse dimensions of love in all its shapes and forms. “Butterfly Season” holds a deeply personal resonance for Offei. Ittraces my entire musical expedition, commencing from my inaugural single released in 2017. The EP’s narrative unfolds in two chapters – the Caterpillar phase and the emergence of a Full Grown Butterfly.
The Caterpillar phase encapsulates my struggles, the roller-coaster of ups and downs, encounters with mistakes, the complexities of friendships, and significant triumphs. These experiences served as the chrysalis, shaping and preparing me. Emerging as a Full Grown Butterfly, Offei is now fully armed with the wisdom, strength, and readiness to spread love, deliver soulful melodies, and craft timeless musical experiences for his fans and music aficionados across the globe.
The EP is not merely a collection of songs; it’s a profound odyssey into the heart, where love manifests itself in myriad ways. Butterfly Season” not only symbolizes Offei’s personal growth but also represents a broader metaphor for transformation and resilience.
Each track is a testament to the transformative power of love and the beauty that emerges from life’s challenges. With this EP, Offei invites listeners on an enchanting journey, promising an everlasting
experience woven with love, soul-stirring music, and unshakable positivity.
Prepare to be captivated as Offei spreads his wings and takes flight in “Butterfly Season,” an EP that promises to touch hearts, inspire minds, and create an enduring legacy in the realm of music.
Wendy Shay – Africa Money
Ghanaian singer-songwriter Wendy Shay tackles one of the most pressing issues affecting not only Ghana but many African countries – corruption. The song, aptly titled “Africa Money,” serves as a poignant commentary on the pervasive problem of corruption in the continent and its impact on development.
Wendy Shay’s “Africa Money” doesn’t hold back. The song takes a strong stance against corrupt politicians who illicitly siphon public funds for their own gain, leaving their nations and citizens to bear the burden. With powerful lyrics and an evocative melody, Wendy Shay shines a spotlight on the issue, demanding accountability and change.
The track’s release couldn’t be more timely, as it coincides with a growing awareness and outcry against corruption in various African nations. Wendy Shay’s song serves as a rallying cry for citizens and a stark reminder to those in positions of power that the people are watching and demanding integrity.
Music has long been a vehicle for social change and activism, and “Africa Money” is no exception. It’s a powerful addition to the growing body of music that confronts important social and political issues in Africa and around the world.
Blaqbonez – Emeka Must Shine (Album)
In the ever-evolving world of Nigerian music, Blaqbonez has consistently been at the forefront of creativity and innovation. His 2023 album, “Emeka Must Shine,” is a testament to his versatility and artistic growth. The album is a vibrant celebration of life, seamlessly merging different sonic personalities into a 14-track masterpiece.
For Blaqbonez, this album is a party. It’s a musical journey that invites listeners to let go of their worries and embrace the beautiful aspects of life. It’s about celebrating the late nights, the luxuries, and the joy of the present moment. Blaqbonez’s pen is in a playful mood, crafting lyrics that reflect the pleasures of life, from cars and money to the allure of women.
“Emeka Must Shine” is a collaborative effort that brings together a constellation of music stars, including Zlatan, Young Jonn, Odumodublvck, Victony, Jeriq, Don Jazzy, Projexx, and Black Sheriff. Each artist contributes to the album’s rich tapestry, adding their unique flavors to the mix.
DJ Vyrusky ft. Kuami Eugene – Broken Heart
Award-winning Ghanaian DJ DJ Vyrusky joined forces with labelmate and frequent collaborator Kuami Eugene to deliver a brand-new song called “Broken Heart.” The song, which was already generating hype before its release, is making ripples on social media, particularly on TikTok, where a clip triggered a challenge with over 100,000 views.
“Broken Heart” explores the range of complicated feelings that surround heartbreak. The song presents a clear image of a person who seems emotionally distant and carefree about losing a lover, even after going through the traumatic experience of a breakup. This theme speaks to a wide range of people and illustrates the complexity of human emotions.
This collaboration between DJ Vyrusky and Kuami Eugene is no surprise, as the duo has consistently delivered chart-topping hits in the past.
Gyakie – Rent Free
Following the success of her drill-inspired track “Scar,” featuring UK-based rapper Jbee, talented Ghanaian singer and songwriter Gyakie, has graced us with her second single of the year. The charming song “Rent Free,” which is sure to win over music lovers everywhere, marks the singer’s victorious comeback to the music scene.
More than just a song, “Rent Free” is a masterful, catchy tune that is meant to live on in your thoughts and heart. The highlight of the performance is Gyakie’s gorgeous voice, which she uses to convey the intense feelings of an unforgettably passionate love.
In ‘Rent Free,’ Gyakie sings of a love so deep that it occupies her heart and mind without cost. The song’s lyrics, which allude to the common experience of falling deeply in love, explore the depths of emotion and attachment.
Fans of Gyakie are bound to be singing along and experiencing the same feelings as she does as she sings of a love that’s hard to forget.
Thus, be ready for the music to live rent-free in your heart as well if you’re willing to lose yourself in Gyakie’s enthralling world.
Mr. Eazi – The Evil Genius
Mr Eazi, the international music sensation, has unveiled his much-anticipated solo album, ‘THE EVIL GENIUS’. This album marks a fresh and dynamic reintroduction to the Nigerian-born artist and showcases a remarkable departure from his usual jovial sound.
‘THE EVIL GENIUS’ invites listeners on an intimate journey through Mr Eazi’s life over the past few years. The album is a rich tapestry of musical genres, including reggae, gospel, highlife, and Afropop, reflecting his artistic growth. It’s not just an album but a heartfelt expression of his experiences, emotions, and thoughts. While Mr Eazi maintains his signature playful style, he ventures into deeper themes, such as grief, depression, politics, and love.
A unique feature of this album is the inclusion of individual visual art pieces commissioned by Mr Eazi, representing the essence of each track. He envisions ‘THE EVIL GENIUS’ not just as an album but as an art exhibition. He explains, “This album is not just a music album—it’s art. It’s meant to be displayed in museums and galleries.”
Throughout the album, Mr Eazi delves into personal relationships with family and fans. He explores a wide range of topics, from politics to prayer, making the project a therapeutic endeavor. ‘THE EVIL GENIUS’ is a testament to the transformative power of music and art in expressing the duality of the artist’s experiences and emotions.
The album also features unique collaborations with renowned artists like Angélique Kidjo and the Soweto Gospel Choir. These partnerships add a layer of depth and diversity to the project, showcasing Mr Eazi’s creative appreciation for the multifaceted nature of music and art.
‘THE EVIL GENIUS’ is more than just an album; it’s a multidimensional art piece that invites us to explore the world through Mr Eazi’s eyes. It’s a testament to the power of music to heal, inspire, and connect people across different walks of life.
Kwesi Arthur – 4LYFE
Ghanaian rapper and singer, Kwesi Arthur, is back in the limelight with his latest release, “4 Lyfe,” marking his third official drop this year. This eagerly awaited single, produced by MOG Beatz, is an exquisite concoction of lush melodies carefully tailored to fascinate every listener.
Before its release, Kwesi Arthur gave fans a tantalizing teaser of the song on social media, sparking a flurry of mixed reactions. In anticipation, music enthusiasts took to TikTok, where they initiated a challenge that drew numerous submissions.
Now, “4 Lyfe” is officially out, and it’s leaving fans and music aficionados buzzing with excitement. The song is a heartfelt love ballad where Kwesi Arthur passionately professes enduring love to his significant other.
This release has already set the bar high for the remainder of the year, and fans can’t wait to see what else Kwesi Arthur has in store.
Rema – Ravage (ALBUM)
Rema’s journey in the music industry began with a bang when he burst into the limelight with his self-titled debut EP in 2019. Since then, he has exhibited an insatiable appetite for dominance and a knack for crafting chart-topping hits. In 2023, he continues to display the self-assured attitude and creative flair that have defined his career.
In a recent conversation, Rema shared his perspective on his music and the energy he aims to convey. He stated, “For years I’ve said, ‘Another banger,’ and creatively I’ve always connected to the energy of being the creator of the bombs and not the bomb itself.” He delves into the idea that it’s not just about the explosive impact of a hit but the fire it ignites within listeners, elevating them from their downtimes.
‘Rema’s New EP: ‘RAVAGE’ is the third and final chapter in the Rave & Roses universe, which has been a defining narrative in his career. While romantic themes permeated his previous works, ‘RAVAGE’ sees a noticeable shift. The EP showcases heavy-hitting production, with assists from prominent producers like London and P.Priime. In the midst of love songs, Rema makes it clear that he is indifferent to perceptions of him and embraces a more complex and multifaceted identity, closer to the role of a villain than a hero.
On tracks like “DND,” he boldly declares his artistic independence with lines like, “Ṣe I wan good ṣe I wan bad?/Ṣe I wan real ṣe I wan fake?/Me I no do again.” It’s a powerful statement of his intent to break free from expectations and create on his terms.
Rema remains an ardent student of the Afrobeats genre, contributing to its sustenance and evolution. With ‘RAVAGE,’ he goes even deeper into his creative well, firmly establishing himself as the “Prince of Afrobeats,” as he proudly states on “Smooth Criminal.” The EP represents an outburst of his inner fire, a release of pent-up passion and drive. It’s not fueled by negativity but by a burning desire to leave his mark on the music world.
In ‘RAVAGE,’ you’ll hear a side of Rema that he’s kept within, an exhilarating outburst of artistic fire that shows his evolution as an artist. This EP reaffirms Rema’s position as one of the most exciting and innovative talents in the global music scene. It’s a bold declaration that he’s here to stay and continue pushing the boundaries of Afrobeats and his own artistry. With Rema, the future of music is undoubtedly in good hands.
Sarkodie ft. Ruger – Till We Die
Ghanaian rap icon Sarkodie, renowned for his annual tradition of delivering a hit track ahead of the festive season and his highly anticipated Rapperholic concert, is back with yet another masterpiece. This time, he’s joined by the incredibly talented Nigerian Afrobeat sensation, Ruger, to create “Till We Die.”
“Till We Die” is more than just a song; it’s a deep and heartfelt exploration of love that transcends boundaries. In this track, Sarkodie and Ruger combine their lyrical prowess to paint a vivid picture of a love that knows no limits. Their verses beautifully intertwine, creating a musical tapestry that is both enchanting and emotionally resonant.
As the year draws to a close and the festive season approaches, “Till We Die” arrives as a reminder that music has the incredible ability to touch the deepest corners of the heart. Sarkodie and Ruger have created something truly special, and it’s bound to be a song that resonates with listeners for a long time to come.
