August brought forth a cascade of musical treasures, with several African artists delivering exceptional Afropop and Afrobeat albums. Here are the top 5 albums that graced our ears and playlists last month:

Fireboy DML – Adedamola

Fireboy DML has officially released his highly anticipated fourth studio album, Adedamola, named after his birth name. This album serves as a testament to Fireboy’s artistic growth, evolution, and continued commitment to delivering quality music.

Following the success of his 2022 album Playboy, Fireboy DML once again curates a captivating and resonant experience in Adedamola. The 14-track album is packed with infectious melodies, insightful lyrics, and high-profile collaborations, making it a crowning achievement in his discography.

Guest appearances on the album include celebrated artists such as Lagbaja, Jon Batiste, Seun Kuti, Lojay, and SPINALL—each adding a unique dimension to the sound. This diverse lineup helps Fireboy craft a sonically rich and dynamic project.

The album feels like a personal journey through Fireboy DML’s evolution as an artist. From the impeccable production to the well-crafted songwriting, Adedamola demonstrates Fireboy’s refined ability to blend rhythms and deliver soulful vocals. Each track showcases his versatility and ability to deeply connect with his listeners.

As Fireboy DML continues to cement his place among the top-tier artists of the Afrobeats scene, Adedamola is a powerful testament to his musical prowess. The album proves that Fireboy is not only evolving but also further establishing himself as a force to be reckoned with in the global music industry.

Kofi Mole – Gye Nyame

Titled Gye Nyame, an Akan word which translates “Only God”, according to the Don’t be singer crooner Only God has the ultimate power or authority over one’s life.

The 4 track EP features his fellow Kumasi based rappers like Kwaku DMC and Reggie Osei on Yopoo, a master piece which was released some weeks ago.

Rapper Kofi Jamal joins him on track 2, ‘Fly Again’ a song tipped by many hip pop heads to become a monster hit. The EP also has songs like Holy Ground and Soul Satisfaction with production credits to Juiczx and Ebothegr8.

Kev The Topic – Here Goes Nothing

Introducing Here Goes Nothing, the electrifying new album from KevTheTopic, a rising star from Ghana, West Africa. This 11-track journey is a bold statement in modern hip-hop, featuring standout collaborations with Khaligraph Jones, EL, Nana Grenade, and Blackway.

With a production lineup that includes JR Beatboy, Kreptismenace, EL, and Gh Stallion, Here Goes Nothing offers a seamless blend of sharp lyricism and captivating melodies. KevTheTopic demonstrates his prowess not only as a top-tier lyricist but also as a versatile songwriter, delivering an album that effortlessly transitions from deep, reflective moments to high-energy, turn-up tracks.

From its compelling beats to its diverse range of hip-hop styles, Here Goes Nothing ensures a captivating listen from start to finish. Experience the full spectrum of contemporary hip-hop as KevTheTopic brings you a project that’s as thought-provoking as it is vibrant.

Demmi – Hometown Hero

In 2024, Demmi, Ghana’s rising star, brings his infectious sound to the world with his latest track, “HomeTown Hero.” Available on all digital streaming platforms, this mid-tempo afrobeat anthem encapsulates the spirit of local pride and global ambition. Demmi’s unique blend of autobiographical and societal storytelling is on full display, drawing from the everyday experiences and vibrant culture of his homeland.

“HomeTown Hero” stands out not only for its rhythmic beats and catchy melodies but also for Demmi’s unparalleled linguistic versatility.

Proficient in English and various local African dialects, Demmi masterfully weaves cultural nuances into his lyrics, creating an authentic narrative. The song celebrates the journey of becoming a local legend, honoring the struggles and triumphs that define the path to success. Elevating the sound of afrobeats with fresh perspectives and a deep understanding of the genre’s elements, Demmi delivers a song that is both innovative and deeply rooted in tradition.

“HomeTown Hero” is a celebration of cultural pride, a nod to the heroes of our communities, and an anthem for anyone who dares to dream big while staying true to their roots. This project features artists like Arathejay, Sh3lter, Cool Paul, Herman Suede…

Asake – Lungu Boy

Asake’s third album, 2024’s Lungu Boy, pushes the boundaries of time, place, genre, and rhythm, resulting in a bold and vast effort that reshapes the landscape of modern Afrobeats. The singer-songwriter and performer expertly combines indigenous sounds from Lagos with varied diasporic influences, defining his identity through new musical frameworks.

“Lungu Boy explains my early beginnings in music and how it shaped me into the person I am becoming,” Asake shares with Apple Music. “The English word is ‘ghetto’. As you can tell from the choice of collaborations, Lungu Boy is my heritage and culture [spreading] to the rest of the world.” This ambitious album surpasses the scope of his previous works, Mr. Money With the Vibe and Work of Art, and features an impressive array of collaborators, including LUDMILLA, Central Cee, Stormzy, Travis Scott, and Wizkid.

In Lungu Boy, Asake collapses eras and merges traditional Fuji vocal samples with log drums and nostalgic beat breaks, creating a dynamic sound that accommodates influences from Afropop, samba, amapiano, funk, and hip-hop. “It’s a new field,” Asake explains. “I refuse to limit myself and strive to share my African heritage with the world through a blend that goes beyond just a sound.”

The album’s sonic textures, accrued from the merging of traditional styles with modern influences, allow Asake to traverse various moods and subjects, all while maintaining a familiar feel rooted in street-coded lyricism and stylish delivery. “Consistency and exposure lead to growth,” Asake reflects. “I’m glad to see it reflected in my writing as well.”

While Lungu Boy marks a significant evolution in Asake’s sound and artistic vision, the artist—born Ahmed Ololade—remains true to his core. “Asake remains the same person,” he asserts, “but with increased value, content, exposure, and composure.” This project is not just an album; it’s a statement, showcasing Asake’s commitment to blending his African roots with global sounds and pushing the boundaries of what Afrobeats can be.