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OVASABI: Breaking Borders with “I NEED THAT”

Emmanuel Daniji
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OVASABI: Breaking Borders with “I NEED THAT”

Nigerian-American hip-hop artist Ovasabi released his highly anticipated single, “I NEED THAT”, on August 20, 2025. The track is a cross-cultural explosion featuring Austrian pop/R\&B singer Stephanie Milostic, alongside contributions from an Australian R\&B voice and Zambian artist Mayukwa.

With AI-driven visuals, an international sound, and bold collaborations, Ovasabi is carving his place as one of the genre’s most daring voices. I caught up with him to talk about his creative journey, the making of this project, and the global future he envisions for his music.

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Global Fusion

Q: Your new single “I NEED THAT” brings together your distinctive hip-hop flow with Stephanie Milostic’s vibrant pop melodies, a fusion of two musical worlds. How did this collaboration come together, and what excites you most about blending those genres?

Ovasabi: I actually discovered Stephanie during a TikTok live where her music was being played. Her vocals stood out, her lyrics were unique, and she had a distinctive style. I reached out to her in December, and by January she had sent me a chorus. I loved the sound immediately, and we decided to build the song from there. What excites me most is that it’s not just a song, it’s a sound. It’s unique. I always wanted to blend my Nigerian lyrics and vocals with an international artist, and this was the perfect opportunity.

Click HERE to Stream and Listen to I Need That

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Cross-Cultural Chemistry

Q: How did you connect with Stephanie Milostic for “I NEED THAT”? Was she on your radar from the start, or did it evolve organically?

Ovasabi: It was organic. She listened to some of my music too and liked what she heard. We connected on mutual interest. This digital era makes collaborations like this possible, and that’s exciting.

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Energetic Intent

Q: With club-ready energy and an international anthem vibe, what mood did you envision for listeners hearing “I NEED THAT” for the first time?

Ovasabi: Anywhere the vibe is high, clubs, parties, gyms, sports competitions. Even when you just need motivation or positive energy. That’s the atmosphere I want people to feel.

Ovasabi I Need That

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Expanding the Palette

Q: Beyond Stephanie, you’ve got an Australian R\&B singer and Zambian artist Mayukwa on this project. How did they expand the sound?

Ovasabi: Stephanie is an Australian R\&B/Pop singer who’s been putting out great music. Mayukwa, the Zambian artist based in New York, is an energetic performer and really good with choruses. We actually worked on a track called “Calling” from my upcoming Black and White EP. Watch out for that one, it’s special.

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Creative Approach

Q: When working with such diverse artists, from Europe, Africa, and Oceania, do you adapt your songwriting and production style?

Ovasabi: Music is a universal language. Sometimes it just needs a little tweaking here and there, but I always stay original. My Warri pidgin, Nigerian slang, English, and hip-hop influences will always be there. The key is often just finding the right beat, the rest falls in place.

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Innovative Visuals

Q: Your project includes an AI-generated video, something quite new in hip-hop. What inspired this direction?

Ovasabi: For me, it’s about moving with the times. AI is efficient. Stephanie lives in Australia, and I’m in the U.S.. imagine the cost and logistics of shooting a traditional video together. AI gave us creative flexibility. And with attention spans getting shorter, I believe AI makes visuals more efficient while expanding creative options.

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Technical Challenges

Q: What were some of the challenges in executing an AI-driven visual?

Ovasabi: Honestly, with great minds like Pixala Productions handling it, everything fell into place. They’re the best in the game right now.

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Origins & Evolution

Q: From Warri to the U.S., from your Book of Ovasabi EP to this global project, what’s stayed central to your identity, and what’s evolved?

Ovasabi: My Delta pidgin, Nigerian slang, and ability to make hip-hop digestible are still central. What’s evolved is my sound selection, beats, instrumentals, production choices. Growth comes with every project.

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Storytelling Through Lyrics

Q: Your earlier work was deeply personal and reflective. How does this new project differ in lyrical themes?

Ovasabi: Every project comes from a different space emotionally. Hopes and Dreams was one vibe. This one is a whole new narrative, with new energy and emotions.

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Audience Vision

Q: How do you envision your global audience receiving this, from New York to Lagos and beyond?

Ovasabi: It’s always been tough breaking African hip-hop into the U.S. and international space. But I believe I can be that bridge. Who knows, we might even win Grammys. You never know.

Ovasabi I Need That

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Live Performance Plans

Q: With such high-energy tracks and futuristic visuals, what can fans expect from your live shows?

Ovasabi: We’re planning tours already. Some gigs in New York are coming up, and we’re pushing for bigger shows. Creativity unfolds as we go, but one thing’s certain, it’s gonna be lit. Keep your eyes on me.

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Industry Disruption

Q: Do you see AI visuals reshaping hip-hop and music videos as a whole?

Ovasabi: Absolutely. In a few years, artists of all genres will move away from traditional music videos. AI is here to stay, it’s efficient, creative, and only going to get better. This is just the beginning.

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Artistic Influence & Growth

Q: How did your roots in Delta State and Lagos influence this release?

Ovasabi: Growing up, we dreamed of international collaborations. From Warri to Lagos, now to the U.S., all of those experiences shaped me. That’s why I appreciate this moment so much.

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Strategic Release Choice

Q: Why August 20, 2025, for the release of “I NEED THAT”?

Ovasabi: It’s the right timing. My Black and White EP is also on the way, so this track sets the pace. We’ve got so much lined up, just stay tuned.

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Looking Ahead

Q: What comes after this release?

Ovasabi: The Black and White EP drops in September. There’ll be shows, tours, more visuals, merch, and big moves from the U.S. to Lagos. We’re just getting started.

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Final Word

Ovasabi’s new single isn’t just music, it’s a movement. By blending hip-hop with international pop, experimenting with AI visuals, and staying rooted in his Nigerian identity, he’s redefining what global hip-hop can look and sound like.

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For Bookings & Inquiries

For artist bookings, interviews, features, and performance requests, contact:

Sleemjim

sleemjim77@gmail.com

+234 905 553 2285

Hennessy Drops The Beat With A First-Ever Global Cypher – Blending Ama-Piano, Afrobeats & Hip-Hop

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Hennessy Drops The Beat With A First-Ever Global Cypher – Blending Ama-Piano, Afrobeats & Hip-Hop
Hennessy Cypher 2025 spotlights pan-African and global artists in a powerful new expression of sound, style and storytelling.​

Hennessy, the world’s leading cognac brand and a longstanding champion of music, has just dropped the much-anticipated Hennessy Cypher 2025.  This launch affirms Hennessy’s role at forefront of global sound: one that successfully blentheds Hip-Hop, Amapiano and Afrobeats for the first time ever.

Featuring a powerful mix of artists from South Africa, Nigeria, Kenya, Ghana, Tanzania and the UK, this year’s Cypher is a pan-African and diaspora collaboration that places Hennessy once more at the forefront of cultural innovation and sound evolution.​

The Hennessy Cypher 2025 represents a unique blend of feats: it’s a genre-fusing, gender-inclusive and boundary-breaking musical experience designed to showcase Africa’s global influence and celebrate the diversity of expression. It also echoes the brand’s ‘Made for More’ philosophy, a belief that when creativity meets culture, the result is always greater than the sum of its parts.​

For the first time, the Cypher features female artists while merging Amapiano, Afrobeats and Hip-Hop into a single track. This bold move reflects both the richness of Africa’s evolving soundscape and Hennessy’s commitment to elevating underrepresented voices and redefining the concept of what a Cypher can be. Six artists widely known for their unique sound and style take centre stage: Kabza De Small, Femi One, Ms Banks, Blaqbonez, Jaivah and Joey B.​

“At its core, the Hennessy Cypher is about creativity and passion for music,” says Vincent Montalescot, Hennessy’s global Chief Marketing Officer. “It is a true collective play, uniting artists who are disrupting genres and shaping culture, across Africa and beyond. As a master blender of talent and vision, Hennessy continues its long-standing relationship with Africa and reaffirms its commitment to championing African creativity on a global stage” ​

The music video for Cypher 2025 unfolds inside the Hennessy House, a metaphorical mansion where each room represents a different genre, rhythm and cultural movement. This symbolic creative concept brings to life the idea of co-existence over competition, where Hip-Hop, Amapiano and Afrobeats live side by side in a single visual and musical space.​

Directed and produced in Cape Town, South Africa, the Hennessy House becomes a canvas for multi-cultural sound and continental fashion, transitioning from room to room in a sleek journey through a diverse musical landscape. ​

For over 50 years, Hennessy has been woven into the DNA of Hip-Hop. From Tupac to Snoop, Nas to Drake, the brand has been name-checked in over 4,000 songs, making Hennessy the most mentioned spirit brand in music history. ​

Experience the 2025 Hennessy Cypher here: 

https://bfan.link/hennessy-cypher​


Rightflow Release New Single “Man O War” Featuring Nigerian Artist Zaylevelten

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Rightflow Release New Single “Man O War” Featuring Nigerian Artist Zaylevelten

An international collaboration blending Afro-fusion and trap, set to spotlight PEI on the global music map

Charlottetown, PEI — Local hip-hop artist Rightflow just released his highly anticipated new single “Man O War”, a cross-continental collaboration featuring Nigerian rap artist Zaylevelten, who is pioneering a bold wave of Afro rap and Afro-fusion music.

“Man O War” is more than just a song — it’s a cultural bridge. Combining the high-energy rhythms of Afrobeat and the raw edge of trap and hip-hop, the track brings together the distinct musical influences of Prince Edward Island and Nigeria. Rightflow’s lyricism and emotive delivery pair seamlessly with Zaylevelten’s Afro-fusion style, which draws on Nigerian Pidgin English and modern rap flows.

Zaylevelten has already made waves in the international music scene, collaborating with artists such as Fimiguerrero(who previously worked with UK rapper Lancey Foux) and earning co-signs from industry heavyweights like Davido, Odumodublvck, and Santi. His feature on “Man O War” reflects the growing cultural exchange between Afro-fusion and Western hip-hop — and places PEI in the spotlight of that global conversation.

Rightflow expressed his excitement about the release:

“This track is about more than music — it’s about merging worlds. Working with Zaylevelten has been inspiring because his sound carries the heartbeat of Nigeria while connecting with the energy of trap and rap that I’ve been building here in PEI. ‘Man O War’ shows how music can travel across borders and bring cultures together.”

With a growing following in Prince Edward Island and beyond, Rightflow is emerging as a fresh voice in Canada’s hip-hop and R&B scene. “Man O War” highlights his ambition to break through regional boundaries and showcase how artists from smaller markets can create globally resonant music.

The single will be available on Spotify, Apple Music, and all major streaming platforms on [Insert Release Date]. Fans can follow Rightflow on [Insert Social Media Handles] for updates, behind-the-scenes content, and future releases.

Scumie Release New Album 066, Vol. 3

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Scumie Release New Album 066, Vol. 3

“From SoundCloud to Stardom: Scumie’s 066, Vol. 3 Shows She’s One of Hip-Hop’s Next Big Names” 

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Rising South African rapper, singer, and producer Scumie has officially released her highly anticipated new album, 066, Vol. 3 — the latest installment in her acclaimed 066 series. The 13-track project marks a bold evolution in Scumie’s career, following her breakout albums 066 (2021) and 066, Vol. 2, which first introduced her to the South African SoundCloud scene and helped her gain early recognition as a rising hip-hop talent. 

066, Vol. 3 features powerhouse collaborations with Zimbabwean-South African superstar Nadia Nakai, as well as Qwellers’ Yungboyvegeta & Lowfeye, blending dynamic local and cross-border hip-hop sounds. Every track showcases Scumie’s signature mix of raw lyrical intensity, melodic flair, and atmospheric production — cementing her as one of the most exciting voices in South African rap and contemporary hip-hop. 

“This album is me — raw in a curated way, “066, Vol. 3 is about evolution. Disillusioned, but front row at Paris Fashion Week.” 

Scumie

The 066 series has long acted as a living archive of Scumie’s artistic journey: ● 066 (2021) captured raw instinct and underground energy. 

● 066, Vol. 2 sparked industry attention and built momentum. 

● 066, Vol. 3 represents refinement and growth — a confident, restless project that shows Scumie embracing both her strength and vulnerability. 

From start to finish, 066, Vol. 3 is a sonic exploration of self-realisation, aesthetic power, and subtle rebellion. Each track moves like a blurred Polaroid — imperfect, grainy, yet intensely alive — drawing listeners into an immersive world of authentic South African rap. 

Scumie personally produced track 1, and the album features production from some of South Africa’s hottest new wave producers, including: BeatsByNxRTH, Brotherkupa, Chetey Chetey, Guapo & NNoah, HUDS, HUDS & Zackey, Joey Manson, N.k.v.y, NotBenjamin and internationally acclaimed American producer The Alchemist. 

With this release, 066, Vol. 3 solidifies Scumie’s position as a leading figure in the African hip-hop landscape, bridging underground credibility with mainstream appeal. The album is now available on all major streaming platforms worldwide, marking another milestone in her rapidly ascending career.

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About Scumie 

Zamazitha Mnqandi, known professionally as Scumie, is a dynamic South African rapper, singer, and producer who has swiftly risen to prominence in the global hip-hop scene. Born in Midrand, Johannesburg, Scumie began her musical journey at 14, initially producing beats before transitioning into rapping during the 2020 lockdown. Her debut track on SoundCloud charted unexpectedly, marking the beginning of her ascent in the music industry. 

In 2025, Scumie released her debut studio album, 066 VOL 3, featuring collaborations with artists like Nadia Nakai and YungBoyVegeta. The album showcases her unique blend of alternative hip-hop, incorporating elements of punk, emo rap, and electronic influences. Scumie’s authentic storytelling and genre-defying sound have garnered her a dedicated following and critical acclaim. 

Beyond her musical achievements, Scumie has been recognized for her advocacy for female artists in the music industry, encouraging them to build their own empires rather than conforming to existing structures. Her influence extends beyond South Africa, as she continues to inspire and redefine the global hip-hop landscape. 


After a Long Hiatus, SirNic216 returns with His Most Personal Project Yet titled “Almost Never”

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After a Long Hiatus, SirNic216 returns with His Most Personal Project Yet titled “Almost Never”

After 8 years of silence, SirNic216 is finally making his long-awaited return, and this time, he’s not just dropping music, he’s telling his story. His latest 7-track EP Almost Never, marks his first release since his 2017 project. For long-time supporters, this isn’t just another drop, it’s a moment. A long-overdue chapter 

The title, Almost Never, is more than poetic. It reflects a near-fatal accident that almost ended his career, and his life. The EP explores what it means to fight through silence, pain, and doubt.

“Almost Never is a prayer in reverse. A quiet scream from the edge of a moment. A confession dressed in resilience,

SirNic216

The sonic direction of the EP is steered by two distinct forces: Lesotho’s own Taks Beats and Thor Björgvinsson, a gifted producer all the way from Iceland. Together, they deliver a soundscape that merges sharp lyricism with haunting emotion and intentional vulnerability. Each track on this EP is a piece of that journey, honest, unfiltered, and necessary. It’s a story of survival. A second chance. A bold return from an artist who almost never made it back.






Hanna Follows Up Her #1 Hit With New Single “TOUGH CROWD”

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Hanna Follows Up Her #1 Hit With New Single “TOUGH CROWD”

Fresh off the success of her last single “can’t stop” — which climbed to #1 on the 5FM Top 40 and made waves across streaming platforms — Zimbabwean-Ethiopian rapper and lyricist Hanna returns with her brand-new single “tough crowd”, dropping on 22 August 2025.

Known as one of South Africa’s most exciting young voices, Hanna blends the raw storytelling of hip-hop with the smooth textures of R&B and polished pop production. On “tough crowd”, she delivers an empowering anthem for anyone who’s ever felt like their best still wasn’t enough. Sparked by the heartbreak of someone close, the song speaks to the universal struggle of people-pleasing and the liberation that comes with breaking free.

Her vocals glide between vulnerability and resolve, rising into a hook that feels equal parts pep talk and rallying cry. With sleek, confident production and a tight runtime, “tough crowd” wastes no breath — instead carrying a bold, unapologetic message: you can’t please everyone, so you might as well be yourself.

tough crowd is one of those songs I didn’t realise I also needed to hear until I was done making it,”Hanna explains. “It started out about someone else, then quickly became very close to home. It’s one of those messages that just resonates deeply and that almost anyone can relate to. Whether it’s feeling like you can’t catch a break no matter how hard you try, or for those in the public eye, always being damned if you do and damned if you don’t.”

Hanna

Hanna’s career has been on a sharp upward trajectory. From making her mark in Mr Eazi’s #emPawa100 and Nasty C’s Lift As You Rise, to a Best Female nomination at the South African Hip-Hop Awards for her debut mixtape The Girl in the Durag, she’s continued to cement her place in the industry. In 2024, her critically acclaimed Guilt Free EP earned widespread praise and landed her on Apple Music’s Africa Now Radio’s Big 5 with lead single “Pride.”

Now, with “tough crowd”, Hanna reinforces her new era — one that builds on the momentum of her chart-topping success while championing authenticity, self-assurance, and artistry that resonates deeply with her growing audience.

Stream “tough crowd” here: https://onerpm.link/tough-crowd

HANNA ONLINE

INSTAGRAM

TWITTER


Babydaiz Drops “MATISA” – A Sonic Lift for the Culture

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Babydaiz Drops “MATISA” – A Sonic Lift for the Culture

African music takes another giant leap forward as BabyDaiz drops his brand-new single Matisa today, a record destined to move dance floors, hearts, and the culture itself.

BabyDaiz is not just an artist – he’s a force shaping the sound and spirit of a generation. Rising to fame with his breakout single “Enemies,” hailed by Nasty C as having the “greatest music video in South African history,” BabyDaiz quickly established himself as a creative disruptor. He then sparked a continent-wide wave with the viral anthem “Top! Masambe,” a TikTok sensation that had millions dancing across borders.

Following his breakout hits, BabyDaiz’s Allez Tobina single was more than just another release – it was a movement. Fusing high-energy African rhythms with world-class production, the track redefined the soundscape and cemented BabyDaiz as a true culture shaper. Riding this wave, he shared stages with Africa’s top stars, performed at major festivals, and built a dedicated fanbase – over 2.2 million TikTok followers, 241K Instagram fans, 8 million YouTube views, and 87K+ monthly Spotify listeners. Each milestone sharpened his vision and set the stage for his next bold step.

Now, after electrifying the streets and streams, BabyDaiz returns with Matisa – meaning “lift it up” in Lingala – a single that embodies elevation in every sense. Produced by Astro and Mathew Otis, the track is a spiritual rising through rhythm, rage, and ancestral release. Drawing from his rich multicultural roots – from South Africa to Atlanta and beyond – BabyDaiz crafts a sound that is deeply African yet universally resonant. Matisa is more than a single – it’s a statement. Proof that African music is not just participating in the global conversation; it’s leading it. With infectious energy, unapologetic originality, and an ever-growing international audience, BabyDaiz is lifting the culture to new heights.

Matisa OUT WORLDWIDE https://africori.to/matisa

Sano Boi Release Statement New EP Fingers Crossed

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Sano Boi Release Statement New EP Fingers Crossed

Hailing from Kigali Rwanda, Sano Boi release his debut EP Fingers Crossed, a month after the success of his street-shaking debut single “Drip on  Monday” featuring B-Threy. The project’s title, “FINGERS CROSSED,” serves as a powerful symbol of hope for anyone to make it in life, regardless of the hard obstacles. 

Fingers Crossed symbolizes my hope and support for anyone striving to achieve their goals, This project is a heartfelt and energetic collection of songs that serves as a powerful symbol of hope and perseverance against life obstacles and are sure to  move your feet and soul. 

Sano Boi

“90’s Kid”: on this deeply personal track, Sano Boi reflects on his childhood, born in 1996. This song highlights the spirit of “United as one,” where segregation has no seat. Sano Boi shares the story of losing his father at the age of nine and how that profoundly impacted his life. This song is an anthem for all the 90’s kids across the world who grew up with big dreams of contributing to their community and making a change.

“Run It”:  Sano Boi showcases his flawless flow and raw talent on this track, reminding everyone that giving up is not an option.  “The future is holding tight your Mulla ,  Guma Ukore Cyane Uzayacyura”.  Run it captures the spirit of perseverance and the drive to succeed regardless of the obstacles in one’s path. 

“Kama Mbaya Mbaya” ft. BUSHALI: This track, featuring Kinyatrap pioneer BUSHALI, is a powerful declaration of determination. The Swahili  title, “Kama Mbaya Mbaya,” reinforces Sano Boi’s message that he will make it no matter what it takes. The song encourages listeners to keep their faith and put in the work to achieve their goals

The project’s title, “FINGERS CROSSED,” serves as a powerful symbol. Sano Boi chose it as he is rooting for anyone to make it in life, regardless of the hard obstacles on the journey.

“ Fingers Crossed symbolizes my hope and support for anyone striving to achieve their goals” Sano Boi
                                                                         

https://distrokid.com/hyperfollow/sanoboi/fingers-crossed

Seru The Ellipsis Drops “Fruit & Veg” Featuring Lowfeye — A Flavour-Packed Joint

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Seru The Ellipsis Drops “Fruit & Veg” Featuring Lowfeye — A Flavour-Packed Joint

After back-to-back drops that are shaking up the scene, South African genre-
bender Seru The Ellipsis is showing no signs of slowing down. Just two weeks after the inspirational Enerjay, and still riding the momentum of Paco Rabbane featuring Blue Pappi & LaCabra, Seru returns with a fresh new single: Fruit & Veg featuring Lowfeye. Fruit & Veg is a vibrant, tongue-in-cheek celebration of confidence and style — using the metaphor of fresh produce to describe dressing at the highest level of freshness. Speaking on the meaning behind the track Seru Shares

The song Fruit and Veg is about dressing so fresh that you look like fresh produce.
Have you ever seen a fresh tomato or apple at a fruit and veg? It looks appetizing and delicious. Your drip has to be as fresh as the produce at a fruit and veg — hence the hook: ‘drip on produce super fresh ngathi ngi thenge iskhindi eFruit and Veg.’ The song encourages you to be at your best level of drip at all times

Seru The Ellipsis
This image was taken by Lethabo Motseleng.

Following the motivational tone of Enerjay — an anthem for anyone chasing their dreams despite the doubters — Fruit & Veg adds a playful layer to Seru’s growing discography, showing his range and sharp storytelling through style and swagger. The release also follows a major milestone: Seru The Ellipsis was recently featured as the cover artist of Spotify’s Hip Hop Circle playlist, cementing his rising influence in the South African hip-hop space

Stream “Fruit & Veg” now: https://orcd.co/fruitveg

EESKAY Unleashes “Lamb Truck”: The Unstoppable Summer Anthem

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EESKAY Unleashes “Lamb Truck”: The Unstoppable Summer Anthem

What’s up with the recent trend of making music about cars From “Escaladizzy” to “Lamb Truck”, one might suggest that this release is nothing more than an imitation of a proven strategy. Afro-Drill Pioneer, EESKAY, completely disproves that notion with his latest melodic rendition encapsulating an imperfect tale sharing insight into what it takes to build a global movement’ with this release.

From the first 808 drop, “Lamb Truck” hits like a victory lap, fusing EESKAY’s unique delivery with razor-sharp production from Wana Sn and Tubase that feels like the pavement under a roaring V12. Its bold energy and confident lyricism position it as the season’s next breakout hit, engineered for festival stages, car rides, and global dance floors alike.

This isn’t just music, this is motion. “When you hear it, you’re in the driver’s seat. You feel the power, the hunger to win.

EESKAY

”Already buzzing on socials and sliding into heavy rotation on key playlists, “Lamb Truck” which is like nothing you’ve heard before is being tagged “Song of Summer 2025” by early listeners. It’s the kind of record you don’t just play, but live.

Press play and join the ride: https://onerpm.link/lambtruck

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