EASTSIDEALIEN is yet another sensational artist hailing from the Eastern part of the oil rich nation of Nigeria, specifically from the coal city known as Enugu state. The artist just dished out a 3 track Afro Drill project exclusively produced by Nami the producer and Icebeatzz who produced SAINT OBI for Rave of the moment ODUMODUBLVCK.
Area 51 is a 3 track Afro-Drill project delivered in English & Igbo Language. The project is centered on a rap invasion by the artist as he gets ready to take his career to the next level highlighting all the struggles he’s encountered on the long run and scaled through giving birth to track titles like: EVIDENCE, TIME IS MONEY & MY WAY. Area 51 was recorded in a live studio with massive 808s, Guitar chords & harmonious melody
Evidence throws light on Burna Boy’s words “if you no make am no evidence say you try your best” the artist explains in igbo that he’s coming with his evidence brand no car and new house, he states how his mother couldn’t even make her hair back then always wearing wig but now the story have changed.
Time is Money throws light on people tending to waste his time while transactions should be made cos time is money. Nobody should play with his lifetime hustle. While others are sleeping he’s after the bag because time is money
My way is a reflection of grace coming his way as the journey takes a good turn in the future now money and all the love is coming his way
Nigerian sensation Leczy has set the music scene abuzz with the announcement of a highly-anticipated remix to his breakthrough track “Brace For Takeoff.”
This revamped version of the hit song features the original collaborator, Olatop Ekula, as well as the chart-topping artist Skiibii. The remix, poised to be a scintillating musical fusion, is not just a celebration of Leczy’s artistry but also a heartfelt gesture of gratitude to his loyal fans for their unwavering support of his debut EP, ‘The Genesis.’
Embodying the essence of perseverance, innovation, and unity, “Brace For Takeoff” has become a symbol of Leczy’s musical journey, capturing the hearts and minds of listeners with its infectious beats and empowering lyrics. The addition of Olatop Ekula and Skiibii to this remix promises to elevate the song to new heights, offering fans a fresh perspective on the sonic tapestry created by these talented artists.
In a statement reflecting on the significance of this remix, Leczy expressed his profound appreciation for the overwhelming response to “The Genesis” EP, stating, “This remix is a testament to the incredible support and love that my fans have shown me on this musical voyage.
Collaborating with Olatop Ekula and Skiibii on ‘Brace For Takeoff’ is our way of saying thank you to everyone who has been a part of this incredible journey.” With its pulsating rhythms, dynamic melodies, and soul-stirring vocals, the remix of “Brace For Takeoff” is poised to captivate audiences worldwide, delivering a powerful message of resilience, ambition, and triumph.
As Leczy embarks on this exciting chapter in his musical career, he invites fans to buckle up, brace for takeoff, and join him on an exhilarating ride through the boundless realms of creativity and passion.
Stay tuned for the release of the remix of “Brace For Takeoff,” as Leczy and his collaborators prepare to soar to new heights in the Nigerian music scene.
Award-winning Kenyan polymath King Kerby is gearing up to shake the music industry with a blockbuster single titled “Niko Order”.
The single officially kicks off the run to the ‘Saba Deluxe’ album : Also termed as the Disc B to his December-released project , SABA.
“Niko Order” is Kenyan slang for “I’m All Set” or “I’m Good” in English translation. This will be King Kerby’s second official release of the year on the heels of his January-released single “DEUCE” alongside fast-rising Jo’Burg based rapper Ta’Eish.
“This song was inspired by my love for the sound Zino D and LD Beats have been able to pioneer in Cape Town and how it’s made an impact on not just the South African Hip Hop scene but the entire continent” King Kerby states.
Produced by Zino D and LD Beats, the two have been cornerstone figures in the ‘SABA’ soundscape. Producing spacey, bouncy, and emotively atmospheric records that allow King Kerby’s wide-spawning vocals that can cut across a low end bassy feel on a number of cuts on ‘SABA’ to a more saccharine tone as evidenced on tracks like “OUT THE WAY” and “SUMMERTIME”, “Niko Order” is set to thrill fans.
“It comes with practice and self-awareness” King shares of his tonal conviction and mastery.
“Kerby is going to blow up and dominate the music scene, and this is not a hope, it’s more like a premonition and a feeling he has been able to create through his music, ventures, and more” ZAMA Sessions Co-founder Elsie Gitau shares.
The music visual is shot by Coast-based (Mombasa to be specific) video director and creative pulse, King Khassidy. Shot in Nairobi predominantly, the vignette is a textbook in quality of shots, editing, graphics, typography and more. Khassidy and Kerby have previously collaborated on 2023 music visuals for the record, “Pray”.
“Niko Order” is a trunk-booming cut that reaffirms Kerby’s deposition as one of East Africa’s most riveting and idiosyncratic acts with his alternative Hip Hop, Trap, Afro-futurist and R&B sound palette. Deeds Magazine in the UK labels him “A breath of fresh air in neo-Africa’s Hip Hop ecosphere” as he treads on topics such as wellness, empowerment, and all-round savviness of excellence.
“I wanted to make a record that pays homage to the moment I’m experiencing as an artist, the amazing people I’m blessed to work with and the vastness of creativity I’ve been blessed to conjure and explore. “Niko Order” is the enigma of everything being perfectly aligned.”
Between his Unkut Hennessy Hip Hop Awards nomination for Alternative Artist of The Year, ‘SABA’s’ success, and being a trendsetter in his street-luxe apparel, Kerby is on the verge of a successful launch of the ‘SABA DELUXE’.
Prepare to dive into the rich tapestry of South African culture as Cotton Festival unveils its ultimate lineup, showcasing an array of extraordinary talent ready to ignite the stage at the Old Station in Newtown on April 6th, 2024. Under the banner of #VoteCottonFest, this year’s edition transcends the typical festival experience, emerging as a vibrant lifestyle movement celebrating individuality through music, art, fashion, and lifestyle choices.
The Complete Cotton Festival Lineup
Featuring a diverse array of electrifying acts, the final lineup includes: 031 CHOPPA 25K 2SHOES A-REECE ARCHIE ASARATIII ASIAN WOKESTAR ASVNTE ATMOS BLAQ BABY DIAZ BABY LOWSKI BENNY CHILL BERRY JIVE BIG HASH BIG ZULU BIG ACWESH CHAMPURU MAKHENZO CHLEY CITIZEN DEEP COLKAZE DBN GOGO DEE KOALA DIOR SANTANA DJ HARVEY DJ KAYMOWORLD DJ LAG DJ MAPHORISA DJ PEDABOTIC DJ SLIQE DJ SMOKES DJ TSHEGU DJ YURI DJ ZINHLE DJ ZZADDY TEE DLALA THUKZIN DR PEPPA EEQUE ELAINE ELRIDGE EMTEE FLOW JONES JR. FOCALISTIC G-TECH GGOLDIE GOLDMAX GR8FUL HERC CUT THE LIGHTS HORID THE MESSIAH ICE BEATS IMANI BASKIA K.KEED K.O K1LLBRADY KANE KIED KELVIN MOMO KIDDO CSA KINDLYNXSH KMAT KYOTIC LEEMCKRAZY LEEZY LINDOKUHLE LEGENDARY CRISP LEODALEO LERAI LESEDI THE DJ LIL NOSE BLEEDD LOATINOVER POUNDS LUCAS RAPS LULA ODIBA MAGLERA DOE BOY MAJOR LEAGUE DJZ MAJORSTEEZ MANDAE_OFFICIAL MARCUS HARVEY MASHBEATZ MDU AKA TRP MELLOW & SLEAZY MOCHEN MOOZLIE MÖRDA MUSTBEDUBZ NADIA NAKAI NANETTE NINO FRESKO NOTBENJAMIN OFF SHORE OSCAR MBO PABI COOPER PCEE & JUSTIN99 PEGG PHANTOM STEEZE POLLY T QUE DJ QWELLERS RARRI ROBOT BOII SAUCWY SAVEHXPE SBUDA MALEATHER SCUMIE SFARZO RTEE SHAKES & LES SHISHILIZA SICKO SID SINNAMATTIC SIXBY9INE SJAVA SONA SPONTANEOUS DJ STOPPER SUCCESS SUPTA TBO TMAN XPRESS TONY DAYIMANE TXC TYSON SYBATELI UNCLE VINNY UNCOOL MC USIMAMANE VENOM WORDZ YOLOPHONIC YOUNG STUNNA YUMBS ZAIN SPEARS ZEE NXUMALO
In addition to this stellar lineup, Cotton Fest proudly presents the winners of the Open Mic Finale and the Fashion Collab Competition:
Open Mic Winners
Cape Town: Polly T
Durban: Pegg
Johannesburg: Bizzy Acwesh
Fashion Collab Winners
Brthrhood444
Lembe
Swear Ex Clothing
These exceptional creatives epitomize the essence of the new wave in youth culture, embodying individuality, passion, and innovation.
Join us on April 6th as we transform the Old Station into a vibrant hub of expression and creativity. Let your voice be heard and your style celebrated as we come together to shape the future of youth culture. #Cottonfest #VoteCottonFest #Votemusic #Votefashion #Votelifestyle #Voteart #VoteCottonFest2024
Johannesburg, South Africa – Brace yourselves as Cotton Festival returns for its highly anticipated 5th edition, set to unfold at the Old Station in Newtown on April 6th, 2024. Embodying the theme #VoteCottonFest, this year’s edition evolves beyond a conventional festival – it emerges as a dynamic lifestyle movement where attendees actively mold culture through music, art, sport, and lifestyle choices, celebrating the convergence of individuality.
Prepare to be blown away as the Cotton Fest team reveal the sizzling hot Phase 1 lineup which includes a combination of fast rising rappers and accomplished and the finest talents South Africa has to offer across three dynamic stages.
Cotton Fest Open Mic Finale Dates are as follows:
• Cape Town, The Waiting Room: March 14th from 18h00 till 21h00
• Durban, Drop Kick Murphy: March 15th from 18h00 till 21h00
• Johannesburg, Flame Studio, Blue Room Con Hill: March 16th from 17h00 till 20h00
Witness the emergence of fresh voices, fashion and talents from each city. Winners for all three cities will be announced on their social media platforms on the 17th of March.
Tickets for this immersive lifestyle experience are ON SALE NOW at Webtickets
• R200 Early Bird Tickets – limited tickets available
R300 General Admission – limited tickets available
Rising Ghanaian artist Praises Nyarko Asante Nyamekye stage name Nyarko has recently dropped her latest single, “Free My Mind.” With its infectious beats and insightful lyrics, this track showcases Nyarko’s unique blend of Ghanaian and Dutch influences, creating a vibrant and distinctive Afro sound.
“Free My Mind” begins with captivating lyrics that exude confidence and determination, “See I be dogging all the bogges that be coming my way cause I don’t want ’em. Mindset focused on money, I need to stack ’em.” Nyarko’s dynamic flow and powerful delivery set the tone for the empowering message she conveys throughout the song.
The chorus of “Free My Mind” emphasizes the importance of mental liberation, as Nyarko sings, “My mind, I want to free my mind, I got to free my mind, I need to free my mind.” The song’s energetic production and infectious melodies make it an anthem for breaking free from limitations and embracing personal growth.
Nyarko’s rise in the Dutch urban music scene began in 2020 when a freestyle she shared on Instagram went viral, garnering widespread attention. Since then, she has solidified her place in the industry with successful singles such as “Bang!”, “You” and “MOOD,” along with her 7-track EP titled ‘VIBES.’
Combining her Ghanaian roots with her Dutch upbringing, Nyarko’s music reflects a fusion of cultures and languages, resulting in a vibrant and distinctive Afrofusion sound. Growing up in a musical household, where her father was a skilled instrumentalist in guitar and piano, Nyarko’s upbringing greatly influenced her musical journey.
Nyarko’s songs are celebrated for their catchy beats, insightful lyrics, and contagious energy, establishing her as one of the most promising talents in the Dutch music scene today. She has wowed audiences at major events such as Bevrijdingsfestival, Zomer Carnival, Parels v/d Stad, and ADE Beats (Vice). Notable accomplishments include being chosen as FunX Radio’s Artist of the Month, being a finalist in the FUNX Afro Talent competition, making waves in Ghana, and making her acting debut in the black women empowerment movie “White Berry.”
Genre-bending singer, rapper and drummer Muthoni Drummer Queen (MDQ) is set to entice East African music lovers with her latest EP ‘Monsoon.’
The EP is set to drop on International Women’s Day, Friday 8th March, 2024.
The 3 track Afro-pop EP sits at the intersection of Kenyan Pop and Afrobeats, creating a sound that reflects a characteristic East African voice on a global stage.
“As an artist, I always experiment and strive to create my own sound. With Monsoon, I decided to tap into my lifelong love of pop music and blend Kapuka (a defining Kenyan pop sound), R&B and afro-beats.”
-Muthoni Drummer Queen
Muthoni Drummer Queen, popularly known as MDQ, brings intelligence to Monsoon, using several literary devices to share her messages. The EP’s name, MONSOON, is a metaphor that symbolizes how African music is influencing world genres such as R&B, pop and dance. The metaphor is extracted from the monsoon winds that bring rain and influence weather patterns in the East African region.
“I really wanted a unique name that speaks to my East African identity, tells a bigger story of the rise of African music globally, and embodies the wavy, flowy, rhythmic nature of the music on the EP itself.”
-Muthoni Drummer Queen
Monsoon explores the themes of romantic love. “Bure” explores the early infatuation stage, “Pomoni” delves into the talking stage, while “Consistency” sheds light into the work needed to make a relationship work for the best.
MDQ collaborates with Kenyan masterminds in music writing and production to create a beautiful body of work. Across Monsoon, she works with celebrated Kenyan music producers So Fresh, Wuod Omollo and Dillie. Wuod Omollo and Ywaya Tajiri bring their pen game to the project, elevating the songwriting. The diverse oeuvre also invited the able hands of other creatives such as Shem Obara, Mutua Matheka, and Musa Omusi, among many others.
Poised to be among the pantheon of music heavyweights in East Africa and Africa at large, Muthoni Drummer Queen’s musical career has seen her make bold steps to change the music scene in Kenya. Monsoon shows her unstoppable force in championing this good cause.
Tanzanian lyricist Brian Simba is back with a rapid new single dubbed “Silali”.
“Silali” is Swahili connotation for “Won’t Sleep”.
The trunk-shattering anthem by the Bar Es Salaam founder finds him spitting mafioso-esque proclamations and floating on the beat effortlessly.
Produced by Tanzania-based beatsmith Put2Sleep, Brian Simba makes bold statements such as claiming he runs Dar, and the game is too easy like a “past paper” – but this is what keeps him motivated.
Shot on what seems to be a pad with a pool in a tropical setting, this reflects his authority as it’s a symbol of wealth and poise – being relaxed, even when things seem forlorn and chaotic (the rap game in this case). He is out in a sunny location, doing rapper stuff – such as getting blown with his posse and some peachy looking women. Meanwhile on some scenes, he raps into a mirror, sort of confronting himself and reassuring himself that he is what he speaks about on the record, empowering his charged bars up.
Brian Simba is on top of his game and triggers Dar rappers to act towards uplifting Dar rap again as he is, or better if they dare to – respectfully. His facile delivery accents how great he is on the mic on the fast-paced record and his pronounced bars are also equipped to name him the best emcee of his class.
Uncle Guni (a moniker Brian Simba fans call him) has also featured on tracks like SHAKIL G.I.G’s bop “Don’t Kill My Vibe”, performed at the famous Goethe-Institut in Dar, as he readies his next body of work, a follow-up to 2020’s ‘Uncle Guni’.
In other news, rapper Fredrick Mulla has dropped an amazing textbook of verbal diarrhea alongside Kenyan faculty Mbithi, and Elisha Elai called “Vibrate”.
A lyrical exercise, the record sees the emcees trade bars back to back without a gasp of air in between on an easy going summery beat, while Mbithi laces a peachy hook to top it off. Check it out now.
Touted as one of the firebrand emcees in Kenya’s contemporary class of rap, multi-nominated rapper Groovy Jo is a unicorn. Having churned out two dogged EP’s that have stuck her name in every relevant rap conversation in Kenya at the moment. ‘Bundini’ as her core fans refer to her as has already served up records with well-respected names in the industry including Boutross, Asum Garvey, Vallerie Muthoni, Thayu Mwas, and more just to name a few. Groovy Jo’s capacity to slither on diverse genres including Shrap, Pop, Afro Swing, and Shrap – yet still be authentic and deliver her zany punchlines makes her an erudite of Kenya’s musical offerings at this stage. Speaking to Hip Hop Africa, she makes it clear that despite the deficiency of support from native Kenya, she will keep making music that is unbounded by geography.
“I honestly do music ’cause I am passionate and I’m not making music for just the Kenyan population but for the entire world in general” Groovy Jo mentions.
In one of her most candid sit-downs, she lets us in on new music, tentative dates, the growth of womens’ deposition in Kenyan music from her eyes, and the impact she wants to make outside of making bops for the baddies.
Exclusive Groovy Jo Interview
Hello Groovy, tell us about yourself and what music you make?
I’m a Kenyan performing and recording artist, my main genres are Hip Hop, Shrap and Pop. I have been making music professionally since 2018 with two EP’s, out and a third coming out May 2024.
Can you share your music journey with us from as far back as you recall until now?
Wow, I started rapping when I was young, heavily influenced by Nicki Minaj I think when I was 11. I first heard “Itty Bitty Piggy” and I immediately looked for her tape, downloaded it online, and I will never forget – I think it was the first body of work I downloaded and listened to religiously. It’s crazy how it inspired me and how she plays a huge role in my music journey. Now 14 years later I’m living my dream! I get to do it every time I hit the studio and every time I’m on stage so I’m not complaining.
What are some of your greatest milestones so far?
I got to perform at Nyege Nyege in 2023 back in November and it was incredible. The crowd I pulled, my whole team was there it was quite electrifying for me ’cause of the reception.
Also one of my tracks got featured in a Kenyan film which is a huge milestone for me cause I think that’s every artists’ dream to be featured in their own country’s body of work.
https://www.instagram.com/p/CyiK_ZNIuF4/
What would you say has been your most significant setback?
I think myself I tend to overthink a lot about my music and how I want it to be. I am my biggest critic but it’s a work in progress.
What motivates you the most?
My desire to inspire anyone who listens to my music to go for what they love and chase their dreams no matter the odds – corny but true.
What about the music industry triggers you glaringly?
How artists act towards each other; we’re all in this space and we need to support each other. Kenyan artists be snooty as hell like they in Cali or something.
Let’s talk about your latest single “Majirani”. Tell us about it i.e. the inspiration, creative process, collaborators, and the concept.
Majirani is a feel good trap song; I wrote it just chilling in my house. It just came off that vibe. My producer sent the beat and we locked it in.
Word is, you have a project in the works?
Yes my third EP is dropping in May. I am so stoked cause it’s heavy on the rap. ‘Pressure’ is a sweet feel good tape. We go harder on the bars for this new EP and surprise features.
What can we expect from the forthcoming EP?
New features, heavy trap and some feels lol. This tape is special ’cause I wrote it at my lowest I feel but it came out beautifully.
In your legacy, what does this era of Groovy Jo define?
It’s unapologetically accepting one self and loving oneself’s flaws and all. Its about accepting growth and change no matter who has to be left behind. This new era is like a rebirth and it’s quite exciting.
Talk about being a woman in the contemporary music industry today ie how is the treatment, what are your challenges, and what do you love about being a woman? It’s been hella welcoming lately, when I started off not so much. Sometimes us women are our own biggest enemies. Female artists do not support each other and its quite tragic. Across arts, not just music which is a part of the problem. The plus side is that the mindset has changed; women also receive a lot of support that wasn’t really felt. But we need more shows headlined by women.
Is the Kenyan music industry rewarding as a woman?
Not seeing the rewards yet I must say. I honestly do music ’cause I am passionate and I’m not making music for just the Kenyan population but for the entire world in general.
The rewarding for me is making an impact that sticks so until I attain that I can’t answer.
What is your parting shot?
To my fans i love you so much. Thanks for the continuous support
MAJIRANI OFF MY UPCOMING EP DROPPPED TODAY AVAILABLE EVERYWHERE
Nigerian hip-hop veteran Illbliss, widely recognized for spearheading the ‘Eastern – Igbo Boy Movement’ in Nigerian hip hop, has recently unveiled his eighth studio album, titled Sideh Kai. This release marks a significant milestone in his illustrious career, reflecting his evolution and growth within the hip-hop landscape.
A Reflection of Journey and Maturity
Sideh Kai, comprising 16 tracks, encapsulates Illbliss’s journey and maturity as an artist. The album resonates with fans and critics alike, hailed as a masterpiece for its hard-hitting production, introspective lyrics, and trademark wordplay.
Celebrating Life and Heritage
The album transcends mere musical expression, serving as a celebration of life as a middle-aged rapper and black man. Particularly notable is the track “Daughters”, wherein Illbliss expresses his profound love and gratitude for his daughters, adding a deeply personal touch to the album.
Thematic Exploration
Sideh Kai offers a thematic exploration delving into sophistication, resilience, opulence, and class, all interwoven with a deep reverence for Illbliss’s Igbo heritage. Tracks like Red Caps (Igbo) pay homage to the Igbo culture and its enduring spirit, setting the tone for the album’s overarching themes of identity and cultural pride.
Lyrical Prowess and Collaborations
Illbliss’s lyrical prowess shines throughout the album, showcased in tracks like God Is God and Peace of Mind. Moreover, Sideh Kai features an impressive lineup of guest artists, including Odumodublvck, Vector, Umu Obiligbo, Cobhams Asuquo, Made Kuti, Fave, Teni, Lade, Deborah Prest, Acetune, and Yukel, each contributing their unique flair to the project.
Legacy and Influence
With Sideh Kai, Illbliss further solidifies his position as one of the most influential figures in Nigerian hip hop. From his debut album, Dat Ibo Boy, to his latest release, Illbliss continues to leave an indelible mark on the genre, captivating audiences with his timeless artistry and evolution as an artist.
Conclusion
For millennials, hip-hop enthusiasts, and anyone who appreciates indigenous rap, Sideh Kai is a must-listen. Available for streaming on platforms like Spotify and YouTube, the album invites listeners on a captivating journey through Illbliss’s life, heritage, and unparalleled musical craftsmanship. Connect with Illbliss on social media for updates and exclusive behind-the-scenes content.
Follow Illbliss on Instagram and X for more updates.
