Afrocritik Weekly Music Spotlight 2024: Week 8
By Yinoluwa Olowofoyeku
Greetings, cherished music aficionados!
Welcome back to another dazzling instalment of the Afrocritik Weekly Music Spotlight! It fills my heart with joy to have you here with us once more. Unfortunately, last week’s Spotlight was hampered by the infamous transcontinental internet kerfuffle. However, we simply couldn’t resist reconnecting with you, our esteemed audience. I hope you didn’t miss us too much. Remember to stay in touch with us via @afrocritik on social media so that you’re never too far from us.
This week’s playlist was an absolute delight to curate. It felt like embarking on a musical odyssey, exploring uncharted territories and unearthing hidden treasures. I hope this eclectic mix of sounds introduces you to some captivating new artistes, just as it did for me.
Before we dive into the sonic wonders awaiting us, a friendly reminder: aspiring musicians, don’t hesitate to reach out to us at yinoluu@afrocritik.com for a information and chance to shine in the spotlight as well!
Now, without further ado, let’s head into this week’s selection which features:
Vibrant Afro Energy: Young new acts are bringing fresh voices and exuberance to Afrobeats. Nigerian songstress, Maya Blue, gives us the Amapiano-tinged “My Baby”, TAR1Q teams up with Khaid for the fun “Jigga”. “Shako Siwon” is a narrative-driven offering from Meeza, “Wanchekecha” comes from Ugandan act, Bowman Aremwaki, Runtown jumps on a remix of King Perryy’s “Denge”, and Alté pioneer (Odunsi the Engine) assists Leather Park on the smooth “Crown Bounce”.
Sensual Soft Afrobeats: Some artistes preferred to show their softer side with their releases. Jaido P is expressive about his views on “Money”, Ugandan Lagum the Rapper showcases his talents on “2 Much”, Ghetto Boy enlists AratheJay for “360”, and Oiza x Mebi joins Peb to create Plug Music’s “Hot Box”. South African singer, Nanette, implores her lover on “Move With Me”, Raye Chella outlines her woes on “That Kind Thing”, Uche Malik preaches the benefits of “Balance” and Odeal ties it all together with the stellar “Gaslight 101”.
A Couple EPs to Peruse: This week we get an admittedly small selection of EPs to check out, but thankfully quality trumps quantity. South African rapper, singer, and songwriter, The Big Hash, comes out with a stellar R&B/Hip-Hop album, Heartbreak Hotel, from which we get “Dandelion”, “Fingers”, and “Catch Me”. Ghanaian rapper, Kweku Smoke, preaches about life and its struggles on songs like “Mmerepa”, “Young Boy”, and “Agyekum” from his new Kweku Jesus project. Nigerian British rapper, Kida Kudz, gives us “NWA” from his bustling new eponymous EP.
Dancey South African Electronica: Our favourite section is back as we return to the electronic stylings of South Africa. We get a lovely selection of soulful Amapiano like Abidoza’s feature-laden offering “Uzovuna”, Bongza’s “Emendweni” DJ Panther’s “Anginamona” and DJ Stoks’s “The Rebirth of Stoks”. We also have some pulsing House entries such as “E Muoyo” from Full Focus, “Teka” courtesy of Malumz on Deck, and SUPTA’s “Phakamisa”.
Remember, all of this is just a taste of the musical feast awaiting you in our playlist. Be sure to take the journey on your own as well. Explore each track, savour every note, and discover your own hidden gems. And if you’re an aspiring artist, don’t hesitate to share your music with us!
Until next time, dear music enthusiasts, keep the rhythm alive and let the melodies guide your soul. Rinse and repeat the playlist, and let the music transport you to new heights of sonic bliss! Finally, share, recommend, and revel in the joy of discovery as we embark on this musical journey together. Until next time, stay tuned and keep the rhythm alive!
Warm regards,
Yinoluwa “Yinoluu” Olowofoyeku is a multi-disciplinary artist and creative who finds expression in various media. His music can be found across all platforms and he welcomes interaction on his social media @Yinoluu.