In September 2024, Loatinover Pounds unveiled his debut masterpiece, Pray 4 Pitori, a body of work that quickly became a cultural cornerstone, celebrated by many as the hip-hop album of the year. The project resonated deeply with South African rap enthusiasts, its pulse echoing through the streets and digital avenues alike.
Yet, even as Pray 4 Pitori ascended to near-mythical status among fans, the official accolades told a different story. In a particularly fiery episode of Choppin’ It Round Table by Bhuda T, a panel of tastemakers : Eatzz, Illythehost, Zingah, Postman, and Luyanda wrestled with the year’s top album contenders. In the end, the group crowned Priddy Ugly’s Dust as the definitive hip-hop album of 2024, a decision that sparked heated discourse. I, for one, stood firmly against it. But numbers don’t lie, Pray 4 Pitori amassed over 5 million streams across all platforms in November 2024, just two months after it’s release. Thereafter in February, Loatinover Pounds announced that Mamazala featuring 25k had garnered over 1 million streams.
Choppin It With Bhuda T 2024 Roundtable
While Pray 4 Pitori was an undeniable fan favorite, echoed across Twitter’s digital amphitheaters, it found itself overlooked by the Metro FM Awards, despite being officially submitted for consideration. A disgusting snub.
— Loatinover Pounds (@LoatinoverPound) March 3, 2025
Prior to Pray 4 Pitori’s release , LoatinoverPounds had already released visuals for his standout singles: 4AM (featuring Blxckie), Eish (alongside Uncle PartyTime & TheQwellers), and Church on Sundayz (with a star-studded lineup of G-Tech 2 Bit, ThatoSaul, and Tongue Fu-Sensei).
In Picture : Loatinover Pounds (Source: X)
Now, the momentum surges once more, as the rapper prepares to drop the long-awaited visuals for 123 Block Myself (featuring BerryJive). The track, a clear fan favorite, took on a life of its own, soundtracking countless TikTok clips and social media moments.
With anticipation building, 123 Block Myself isn’t the only visual on fans’ radar. Mamazala (featuring 25K) has also emerged as a standout, solidifying its place as a quintessential Pray 4 Pitori anthem. With both records demanding visual treatment, the only question that remains is: Will you be tuned in this Friday for the 123Block Myself premiere? And more importantly, which video should Loatinover Pounds bless us with next?
Loatinover Pounds 123 Block Myself Official Visualizer featuring Berry Jive
With Accra, Ghana fast becoming the hub of the creativity in West Africa through its buzzing fashion scene, few brands stand out for their unwavering dedication to quality, craftsmanship, and an air of exclusivity. One such brand is Famöus®️, a Ghanaian powerhouse that has successfully carved its niche in the Accra’s streetwear scene. With a commitment to redefining urban fashion, Famöus®️ continues to deliver top-notch apparel for a discerning clientele who appreciate both style and substance.
The brand’s latest offering, the “Affluence Collection,” embodies the essence of curating a wardrobe that reflects wealth, taste, and individuality, while also engaging in a broader lifestyle that includes luxury experiences and an appreciation for high-quality craftsmanship. Each piece is meticulously designed to complement a refined yet bold lifestyle, blending premium materials with standout designs that set new standards in African fashion.
The “Affluence Collection”: A Fusion of Style and Edge
Famöus®️ ss25 collection entails a lineup of;
Vintage Crop College T-Shirts – Inspired by retro collegiate wear, these tees offer a perfect balance of nostalgia and modernity.
Zip-up Hoodies – Crafted for both comfort and sophistication, these hoodies elevate everyday casual wear.
Plaid Shirts – A timeless staple that effortlessly complements any wardrobe.
Denim Cargo Pants & Leather Pants – Designed for those who appreciate durable fashion with a rebellious edge.
Camo Pants – A bold yet versatile piece that captures street culture at its finest.
Logo Shorts & Oversized Jorts – Making a statement while ensuring relaxed comfort.
Nascar Jerseys – Infused with high-speed energy and bold aesthetics.
Mesh Caps & Balaclavas – Essential accessories that add the finishing touch to a distinctive look.
The Essence of Famöus®️ : More Than Just Fashion
In an earlier interview with Miles Aidoo Taylor, the founder, he explained further in his own words
Famöus®️ is more than a clothing brand—it’s a cultural movement that represents the intersection of African creativity and global streetwear culture. Each piece from the Affluence Collection tells a story of ambition, self-expression, and the relentless pursuit of excellence.
As the brand continues to push boundaries, it remains committed to its mission of delivering nothing but the best to its loyal community of trendsetters and tastemakers. Whether you’re embracing the casual sophistication of a plaid shirt or making a bold statement with leather pants, Famöus®️ ensures you do it in style.
Stay ahead of the fashion curve with the Famöus®️ Affluence Collection—where quality meets culture, and exclusivity is a lifestyle.
The rap girlies in Nairobi have been on a slight indefinite hiatus releasing a singke or two. This vacuum has once again created opportunity for new bold and daring rappers to step in the ring challenging their longetivity and charisma and one such rapper is El Chi. Releasing her debut single “Bing Bing (STFU)” last year, ElChi came all guns ablaze with a feriociousity that can only be described as daring. Her fearless artistic expression, made waves with the release of the official music video for “BING BONG (STFU).” The track, an electrifying mix of hip-hop, alternative, and experimental elements, is brought to life through a visually striking and conceptually intriguing music video that demands attention.
From the moment the beat drops, “BING BONG (STFU)” establishes itself as a force to be reckoned with. The production is layered and dynamic, fusing heavy bass, glitchy electronic elements, and an unpredictable rhythm that keeps listeners on edge. El Chi’s delivery is both confident and defiant, with sharp, rapid-fire verses that showcase their lyrical prowess. The song’s hook, a repetitive yet hypnotic chant, adds to the track’s infectious energy.
Lyrically, “BING BONG (STFU)” is an assertive anthem of self-expression and resilience. It carries an unapologetic tone, rejecting negativity and outside interference. This rebellious spirit is reinforced by El Chi’s commanding vocal performance, which oscillates between controlled aggression and playful confidence.
The music video for “BING BONG (STFU)” is as daring as the song itself. Directed with a keen eye for aesthetics, the visuals are a mix of chaotic and stylish imagery that perfectly encapsulates the track’s essence. From neon-lit urban landscapes to surreal, fast-paced edits, the video keeps viewers engaged with its unpredictable nature.
Throughout the video, El Chi exudes an effortless cool, moving through different settings with the charisma of an artist who knows exactly what they’re doing. The styling is bold and eclectic, matching the energy of the song with outfits that range from avant-garde streetwear to futuristic, almost dystopian ensembles. The color grading enhances the video’s mood, oscillating between vibrant hues and dark, moody undertones that reflect the song’s intensity.
The release of “BING BONG (STFU)” has sparked excitement across social media. The song and its video have also been gaining traction on platforms like TikTok, Instagram, and Twitter, where fans are sharing clips, reaction videos, and their own interpretations of the track. El Chi, who goes by @blekjpg across social media, actively engages with fans, further solidifying their growing influence in the alternative music space.
El Chi is not just another artist on the rise—they are a disruptor. Their ability to fuse multiple genres, experiment with sounds, and craft visually compelling narratives sets them apart in an industry that often favors predictability. “BING BONG (STFU)” is a testament to their creative vision, proving that they are unafraid to take risks and challenge musical norms.
With this release, El Chi cements their reputation as an artist to watch. Whether you’re a fan of alternative hip-hop, electronic-infused rap, or just looking for something refreshingly different, “BING BONG (STFU)” delivers on all fronts. The song’s unapologetic attitude, combined with its visually stimulating music video, ensures that it won’t be forgotten anytime soon.
Nigerian rapper and songwriter MBBSzn is back with a bold new release, Ya Diba—a track that dives deep into the highs and lows of his journey in the music industry. With his signature introspective storytelling and alté-infused sound, MBBSzn delivers an anthem that speaks to every artist grinding against the odds.
A Tale of Struggles and Redemption
Inspired by real-life events, Ya Diba isn’t just another song—it’s a raw expression of frustration, resilience, and triumph. Last December, MBBSzn took a leap of faith, heading to Lagos in search of a breakthrough. Instead, he was met with industry setbacks—an unreliable producer, a dishonest intermediary delaying his distribution deal, and even an unexpected run-in with the authorities. Yet, instead of letting these challenges crush him, he turned them into fuel for his music.
The Sound & Message
From the very first line—“Where do I begin?”—MBBSzn pulls listeners into his reality. He lays bare the industry’s cutthroat nature: “Ife men ne eme men na Industry a” (Things happen in this industry), while reinforcing his unwavering spirit with “But I’m not in my feelings so ya diba”—a mantra of moving forward regardless of setbacks.
His verses paint a vivid picture of Lagos’ unpredictability, where dreams and disappointments collide. “My producer go mental, my producer go craze… Industry make me mental, Lagos make me craze.” Still, he acknowledges that every hardship carries a lesson: “No Pain, No Gain. Me I don dey pay my dues, e don tey.”
Sonically, Ya Diba fuses rap with Afro-alté melodies, embodying the emotional tension within his story. The hypnotic chorus reinforces a mindset of perseverance—no matter the struggle, you keep pushing.
A Statement of Growth
Ya Diba isn’t just another song—it’s a defining moment in MBBSzn’s artistic journey. His experiences mirror the realities of many rising artists navigating Nigeria’s music industry. Rather than letting his setbacks define him, MBBSzn turns them into stepping stones, proving that resilience is key.
With Ya Diba, he establishes himself as an authentic voice in the alté scene, ready to push boundaries. This is just the beginning.
Stream Ya Diba now and experience the journey firsthand.
Award-winning Ghanaian musician and Africa’s most innovative hip-hop artist M.ANIFEST is set to release his much-anticipated sixth studio album NEW ROAD & GUAVA TREES on March 13, 2025, via revered hip-hop label Mass Appeal. Known for his groundbreaking approach to music and cultural storytelling, M.anifest has once again crafted a body of work that pushes creative boundaries while remaining deeply rooted in his heritage. Featuring collaborations with Red Hot Chili Peppers bassist Flea, The Cavemen., King Promise, A-Reece, and Bien from Sauti Sol, the album is a bold exploration of hip-hop, afrobeats, and highlife, paired with profound storytelling and lush sonic landscapes.
The album’s title is both metaphorical and personal, referencing M.anifest’s childhood in Madina, Ghana. “‘New Road & Guava Trees’ is about embarking on a fresh path,” he shares. “I grew up in a part of Madina called New Road, where we had a guava tree that symbolized growth and beginnings. This record is about the climb—facing challenges to reach the fruits of our labor.” Created between Accra, Seattle, and Los Angeles, the album represents a culmination of nearly two years of creative awakening and collaboration. Key sessions with longtime producer Budo (Doja Cat, Lil Yachty), alongside the likes of Grammy Award-nominated producer GuiltyBeatz (Beyonce, Jorja Smith), and MikeMillzOn’Em (Amaarae, DarkoVibes) resulted in a record that is both experimental and deeply emotive.
Each track on New Road & Guava Trees offers a distinct perspective, blending introspection, cultural commentary, and infectious grooves. The album seamlessly transitions between reflective storytelling and vibrant, danceable anthems, creating a rich and multi-dimensional listening experience. With New Road & Guava Trees, M.anifest charts a bold and fresh course, intertwining personal history with resonant themes of resilience, love, identity, hope, and self-discovery. This introspective yet outwardly expansive album cements his position as one of Africa’s most innovative artists, delivering music that bridges cultural divides and inspires listeners to embrace their own journeys. As M.anifest says, “You have to make the climb to get to the fruits of your labor, and this album is a reflection of that climb.”
The 14-track offering is a rich, genre-spanning journey that fuses introspection, cultural commentary, and experimental soundscapes in a way that only M.anifest knows how. The album opens with ‘Time Catch’, a triumphant call to action, symbolizing the urgency of seizing the moment, with tracks like ‘Eye Red’ offering a raw portrayal of youth desperation amid systemic failures, while ‘Wine And Blues’ paints a vivid picture of navigating life’s challenges with strength and grace. The album’s lead single ‘Puff Puff’, featuring The Cavemen. and Red Hot Chili Peppers legend Flea, blends hip-hop, jazz, and highlife to deliver a soulful anthem on the resilience we need to navigate through life’s many challenges.
The album’s narrative deepens with ‘Spirit Riddim’, a breezy ode to carefree summer moments, while love takes centre stage on ‘My God’, a poignant exploration of tortured devotion, and ‘Ease My Mind’, a tender celebration of imperfect love. ‘Hang My Boots’ featuring King Promise serves as a heartfelt anthem of love and commitment that celebrates leaving the chaos behind. ‘Highlands’ offers hope for those born into adversity, affirming the soul’s eternal resilience, and the reflective closing track ‘Second Hand’ meditates on life’s cyclical nature. Through this captivating collection, and resonant body of work, M.anifest reaffirms his status as Africa’s most innovative hip-hop artist.
MORE ABOUT M.ANIFEST
M.ANIFEST is a trailblazing Ghanaian rap artist, musician, and producer renowned for his exceptional lyricism, vivid storytelling, and groundbreaking fusion of hip-hop and West African pop music. With over a decade in the game, he has crafted a series of critically acclaimed and transformative works, including five studio albums and three EPs that showcase his deep connection to his African roots while pushing the boundaries of modern hip-hop music – from 2013’s Apae: The Price of Free, to Madina to the Universe from 2021. The grandson of the legendary ethnomusicologist Professor J.H. Nketia, M.anifest brings a unique depth and perspective to his music, using his platform to humanize the African experience and bridge cultural divides through his rich soundscapes as a true innovator.
M.anifest boasts over 50 million global streams, a cult following of over 3.5 million devoted digital fans, and a swarm of accolades, including multiple ‘Best Rapper of the Year’ and ‘Hip-Hop Song of the Year’ awards, an International MIDEM Award. His influence also reaches far beyond the continent, with cross-cultural collaborations with global icons such as Damon Albarn, Erykah Badu, and Burna Boy. His most recent work The E.P.ilogue solidified his reputation as a creative visionary, reimagining the traditional EP format with a bold, genre-defying approach. As he prepares to release his highly anticipated sixth studio album, M.anifest continues to redefine the landscape of African music, cementing his status as one of the continent’s most revered and forward-thinking artists.
Since its inception, Hip Hop has always been a cut throat game. In the 1970s the middle class families in the Bronx were experiencing financial difficulties as sources of employment had decreased with many businesses shutting down.The city’s economic decline was due to the decline of the manufacturing industry and construction on the Bronx Expressway. Fortunately a couple of people saw opportunity in the moment, the youth turned to the streets entertaining themselves with block parties. It was from these block parties that Hip Hop grew from.
Hip Hop has since evolved from then looking for ways to be commercialised but at the heart of the genre stands an original pillar, cyphers. Often with a sense of competition, the cyphers often give rappers a chance to showcase their wit with lyricism. In Kenya, cyphers have been at the back bone with integral cyphers happening at gatherings such as WAPI which resulted to the breakout of many rap stars including Khaligraph Jones and Octopizzo. Ironically, cyphers started getting attention in 2016. Khaligraph Jones released The ‘Khaligraph Jones Presents’ cypher consisting of Scar Mkadinali, Munga Mkadinali, Ridiq, Ares66. Strategically positioned Khaligraph Jones as the torch bearer of Kenyan Hip Hop as from here on, the cypher acted as the hallmark of the ‘Khali Cartel Cypher’ franchise.
With a total of five series, each cypher has acted as a breakout platform for at least an artist as normally bridges the old school and new school hip hop. In the start of “Khali Cartel 1,” Khaligraph Jones starts off “..it’s official what we are about to do right now ain’t something they’ve never seen before..” as if to foreshadow the cultural impact the cypher would have on Kenyan HipHop. From breaking out artists such as Wakadinali,Katapilla,Breeder LW, Shekinah Karen and more to paying homage to veterans such as Chiwawa and Abbas Kubass, the cypher has played an integral role in challenging the status quo in Hip Hop. With each cypher representing a core theme, it is the “Khali Cartel 2,” cypher resonates with more Kenyans till date. Released in 2019, the cypher had a stellar line up with Steph Kapela’s cocky rap, Timmy Blanco and Twenny Eights’ trap influences , Katapilla’s riveting cadence and Xtatic’s iconic delivery. “Khali Cartel 3” followed suit and it couldn’t come at a better time as Kenyan artists were demanding media attention and better pay from the music collecting bodies “..while the people are working hard they busy taking the cake..” The #playKe which was amplified by Khaligraph Jones was the subject matter of the cypher and the presentation took a different look.
With the concept of a courtroom, Khaligraph Jones acted as a lawyer with rappers Bey T, Breeder LW, Silverstone Barz, Rekless and Chiwawa acting as the defendants against the music collection bodies. The rap format also changed as opposed to previous cyphers with Khaligraph Jones taking the back seat in delivering full verses. For me “Khali Cartel 4” was rather a let down after much anticipation. The artists lacked connection making the verses sound random. Despite that Katapilla and Shekinah had a thrilling back and forth that brought umph to the cypher.Unlike the previous cyphers, the contestants were picked off the Odinare challenge that saw hundreds of Kenyan rappers drop a verse for contention. While the mastermind behind the previous cyphers was Motif Di Don, for “Khali Cartel 4,” the beat was orchestrated by Ares66(an alumni of the original cypher), Vinc On The Beat and Khaligraph Jones.
Over the past week, the fifth edition of the “Khali Cartel” cypher was released. Once again Khaligraph Jones was armed with a battalion of rappers and serving a new offering for the cypher. In 2019 Khaligraph Jones won the Best Rapper In Africa category at the Soundcity Awards and in his speech he stated the East has something to say. Once again a foreshadow. In the fifth installment of the cypher, Khaligraph Jones once again proved that he is the OG gluing East African Hip Hop. Backed by Abbas Kubass, Jakk Quill and Dyana Cods from Kenya, Mex Cortez and Fresh Like Uhh from Tanzania and Ruyonga from Uganda, he formed an all rap avengers who were hungry for the microphone.
Produced by Vinz on the Beat once again, the prolific rappers put out their best lines representing themselves and their country.The catchy opener “..it’s been over two years..’ followed with the kick and snare provide the perfect start to the much anticipated cypher that had been hyped for approximately two years. Rising star Jakk Quill ushers the floodgates with a gritty flow that reflects his time in the industry. With four projects to his name Jakk Quill came in hungry and assured to show his preparation for this moment. Speaking on an X space, he describes getting the beat from Khaligraph Jones as surreal. “I was debating whether to go back to Nairobi or to chill with my folks but immediately I got the beat. I packed my bags and wrote 80% of my lyrics on the way back,” Jakk explains in his ever calm demeanour. From his verse on the cypher you can tell Jakk Quill is calculated and intentional. His lyricism is a story of hours of passion and dedication as he accepts his glory with a stern face.
Perhaps the pearl of Khali Cartel 5 if you are not careful some of his punchlines might get past you. From “..same neegers that said they’ll rap over Quill now they liplocked..” to ‘..FL over Pro tools schooling all these neegers everyday like I am posed to..” he might come off a bit egoistic but that’s the burden that comes with harbouring great talent. The selection of the rappers was very timely. Especially for breakout stat Dyana Cods who hit mainstream with timeless hit “Set It.” The exciting aspect of cyphers is it brings new personalities from rappers and we experienced that with Dyana Cods. Toning down her aggressive lyricism and gangsta spitting, she switched over to a sultry like whisper as she delivered her lines. Once again Khaligraph Jones secured a slot for women and we love to see it. Listening to Khali’s connecting bridge to Cod’s verse you get to see the sense of respect towards rappers who are female.
You couldn’t fail to ignore the cheeky punchlines from Uganda’s Ruyonga as he egotistical pumped his chest declaring himself “…the saint atheists idolize..” The linguistic switch from English to Luganda was thrilling as he boasted his proficiency in maintaining his tone and identity even with his language. The “Khali Cartel 5,” was a mix of blended energy and as soon as Fresh Like Uhh flowed on the beat, we saw what a rap protege looked like. With divine wordplay “..neegers on my nuts like oak trees, oh gees, ladies stay falling like oak leaves..” , and a lazy flow, Fresh simultaneously camouflaged with the 808s as he glazed over the kicks.
Mex Cortez’s delivery could simply be compared to a breath of fresh air. Immediately addressing the beef between Tanzania and Kenyan rappers, he brushed it off claiming brotherhood in the industry was too important. Something only someone with a couple of years in the game would know. He gave out a chuckling moment when he referenced turning 22 be, a betting company, into 22 BETS. Listening to Abbas Kubass you get to understand what being a veteran means. He didn’t need to do too much or say too much. His presence was already a blessing to rap fans. His boombap and laid back approach to the beat made him the perfect curtain closer of the fifth edition of the cypher.
Big shout out to Khaligraph Jones for consistently and actively trying to uplift not only Kenyan HipHop but East African Hip Hop. Still maintaining the objective of cyphers while commercialising them, he has been able to break out a number of talents in his sprint as a rapper. All in all for you to get the beauty of “Khali Cartel 5” I would advise you to tap into it more than just once.
On the 8th of March 2025, the city of Mbabane played host to an exclusive listening session for Bear With Me—the highly anticipated mixtape by Eswatini rapper and producer GRIXXLY. This release marks a significant moment for the artist, whose last project, As the Fruits Ripen, graced our ears in 2021. The mixtape’s title, a clever play on his name inspired by grizzly bears, hinted at a blend of strength and introspection that would soon unravel.
The session took place at Yini Loku, an award-winning hub for creatives in Eswatini, renowned for its artistic ambiance. The venue was tastefully adorned with captivating artwork and photographs of GRIXXLY, alongside the cover art of the mixtape. These elements created a pathway leading to a central TV screen displaying the cover art and a QR code for the mixtape’s pre-save link ahead of its official release on the 14th of March. The room buzzed with anticipation as prominent figures in the Swazi creative scene gathered, including podcaster Mzion, model Sakhile Simelane, Upscale Music’s Sibusiso “3T” Simelane, and a lineup of artists featured on the mixtape—Amarii, Swiss, Sarnilo, Lyrikal Busta, Mzwaa, and producer Fezi Simelane.
Attendees pictured by @msime.photography
The session commenced at approximately 16:30 with the intro track, “Bear With You”. Here, GRIXXLY laid bare the emotional weight of navigating doubt and disbelief—from both himself and those around him. What initially seemed like a narrative on romantic relationships quickly unfolded into a broader reflection on his journey through the music industry and life. The track, self-produced and layered with introspective lyricism, offered a raw glimpse into the artist’s psyche.
Bear with me tracklist pictured by @msime.photography
Following this, the atmosphere deepened with “I Talk to God About It”, a boom bap-inspired collaboration with Swiss. The track echoed GRIXXLY’s steadfast faith and conviction, reminiscent of earlier works like “Musawenkhosi”. The lyrics were confessional yet triumphant, weaving spirituality into a gritty hip-hop framework.
Between tracks, GRIXXLY and the session’s host, Mainstream, shared insights into the creative process behind the mixtape . The artist candidly revealed that Bear With Me was an exercise in creative freedom rather than a conceptually driven project. Experimenting with diverse rap styles—boom bap, trap, drill—GRIXXLY embraced versatility, proving that artistry flourishes without the confines of rigid themes.
Grixxly(left) and Mainstream(right) pictured by Msime.photography
The mood lightened with a trio of tracks: “SiKasa” featuring labelmate Mzwaa, “NoMistakes” with Amarii, the recently released “Where I’m From” with PDotO and “Musawenkhosi”. These songs, previously released between March and February 2025, invited the audience to reconnect with GRIXXLY’s evolving sound. The lively sing-alongs were punctuated by questions about his signature “Ekse it’s too much” ad-libs—a hallmark that sets him apart in Eswatini’s hip-hop scene.
The energy surged with “Sheleni” featuring Lyrikal Busta and Sarnilo—an anthem about the pursuit of money . “Sheleni,” a SiSwati term for 10 cents, transformed into a metaphor for ambition and resilience. Sarnilo’s vocals soared, adding depth to the song and solidifying the track as a crowd favorite. This momentum carried through to “Nhloko”(Head in English ) featuring Oriiginelle, a fiery collaboration reminiscent of their previous works “Brema to Rio” and “AThouNyana”. The audience’s demand for an encore was a testament to the duo’s undeniable chemistry.
Grixxly pictured by @msime.photography
GRIXXLY’s willingness to explore diverse sounds was epitomized in “Sweep”, a track featuring Eswatini hip-hop DJ, Bay Bash. Its infectious beat, inspired by the likes of Drake’s “Sticky”, blended Jersey club influences with deep basslines, setting the stage for what could very well become a TikTok dance challenge, as suggested by the crowd. The fast-paced rhythm and hypnotic hooks hinted at GRIXXLY’s ambitions beyond the local scene, aiming for a global audience.
The mixtape concluded with “Kuanini”, a track produced by Fezi Simelane that seamlessly melded rap with the log drum. GRIXXLY’s heartfelt verses spilled over the beat, delivering a poignant yet uplifting close to the session. The fusion of genres not only showcased his versatility but also paid homage to the dynamic soundscape of Southern Africa.
As the final notes hung in the air the room breathed in a shared silence—heavy with admiration and the promise of more. Conversations got lighter and the audience was quick to appreciate the mixtape. With one attendee praising Grixxly for his versatility and another for his growth. If there’s one thing I learnt from Grixxly is that having fun while doing what you love is rewarding.
The audience giving a round of applause. Pictures by @msime.photography
With this mixtape, Grixxly goes above and beyond ; inviting us to bear with him the weight of dreams not yet realized but fiercely pursued. Bear With Me is indeed the resurrection of the Grixxly Bear. The question is: are you ready?
Genre bending Ghanaian artist Kwelit is making waves in the music industry with his latest self-written, self-produced, and self-mixed mixtape, LUV. More than just a collection of tracks, this masterpiece is a bold declaration of artistic innovation—blending soulful melodies, intricate storytelling, and genre-defying soundscapes across ten meticulously crafted songs.
To bring his vision to life, Kwelit has assembled a talented group of collaborators. Tyler Leigh, a gifted vocalist from the United Kingdom, infuses raw emotion into Back in Your Arms, delivering a performance that perfectly complements Kwelit’s evocative songwriting. On The World You Were Born In No Longer Exists, Døku provides an ethereal vocal finale, seamlessly blending into the track’s haunting atmosphere.
Adding another layer of depth, Kwelit introduces his alter ego, Roknodbaby, on Sellin n Dealin. The two go bar for bar, showcasing his unmatched lyrical dexterity. Meanwhile, Kel66 effortlessly rides the hypnotic waves of Pixie Dust, enhancing the project’s sonic richness.
LUV is Kwelit’s magnum opus—a testament to his masterful production, intricate lyricism, and artistic depth. More than just an album, this project is an immersive experience that will be studied and admired for years to come. With LUV, Kwelit solidifies his place as an architect of sound, a curator of emotion, and a relentless innovator in the music industry.
South African genre-bending artist Money Badoo, signed under Paradise Sound System, the label renowned for fostering cross-continental collaborations, is set to launch an electrifying brand-new live set in conjunction with the release of her latest album titled M$RYLUVSCMPNY. The live set, created in collaboration with the cutting-edge creative technology house Bad Weather Productions, promises an immersive, boundary-pushing experience that will captivate audiences and showcase Money Badoo’s innovative artistry. This exciting project will debut as a two-part series, supported by Concerts SA, on March 6th in Cape Town and March 7th in Johannesburg.
The new live set represents Money Badoo’s commitment to redefining the music experience in South Africa, blending striking visuals, dynamic performance elements, and her genre-defying sound. With a reputation for being one of the most vibrant voices in South Africa’s contemporary music scene, Money Badoo has continually pushed the envelope with her music, style, and live performances. This latest endeavor further cements her position as a trailblazer in the African music landscape. Additionally, the South African tour serves as a preliminary to Money Badoo’s first international tour, supported by Africa Rising Music Conference. Set for July 2025, this upcoming international tour will see her performing across Benelux, expanding her reach to global audiences.
M$RYLUVSCMPNY, is more than a project—it’s a journey of self-discovery, transformation, and resilience. Through music, visuals, and fashion, it tells a deeply personal story of navigating heartbreak, battling inner demons, and confronting the complexities of mental health. At its core, the project is about alchemy—turning pain into power, sadness into art, and isolation into connection. Led by Money Badoo, also known as ZAAK, M$RYLUVSCMPNY blends alternative hip-hop, R&B, and experimental sounds to create a world where vulnerability meets strength. It’s an open invitation to embrace the beauty in struggle and the light that comes from within, even in the darkest moments.
Produced by the finest names in South African hip-hop, including multi-award-winning pH Raw X, award-nominated MashBeatz, platinum-certified gTbeats, and the versatile NOTBENJAMIN, M$RYLUV$CMPNY delivers genre-defying beats infused with the vibrant energy of South African culture.
Money Badoo’s recent singles have made significant waves, with her breakout track “Don’t Call Me” debuting on 5FM’s Dance Chart in its first week, gaining airplay on YFM and Jacaranda FM, and amassing over 2 million playlist streams across 29 editorial and third-party playlists. Her exclusive video for “Don’t Call Me”, hailed by Texx and the City as one of the best indie videos of 2024, premiered on TRACE and captivated audiences with its vibrant, nostalgic visuals.
Her rise continues with over 750,000 playlist listeners for her latest releases and a growing international presence. A rework of “Don’t Call Me” features global stars Boban Marjanovic (Serbia), Haftbefehl, Gringo, and Dribbla (Germany), produced by Paradise AI Kitchen. This groundbreaking track combines cutting-edge AI-driven music creation with a global reach of over 4 million fans.Bad Weather, known for their expertise in crafting avant-garde creative concepts and live experiences, has played an integral role in curating the aesthetic, creative and technical elements of the live set. Together, they have designed an experience that transcends a traditional live show, incorporating state-of-the-art stage design, lighting, and audiovisual storytelling.
Tour Details:
Cape Town: March 6th, 2025, in collaboration with renowned streetwear brand BROKE, Klubhouse.
Johannesburg: March 7th in collaboration with Rockets Music & 8th in collaboration with SEALAND store at 44 Stanley.
Supported by: Concerts SA
Speaking about the upcoming live set, Money Badoo shared:
This project has been a long time coming, and I’m beyond excited to finally share it with my supporters. Partnering with Bad Weather and being supported by Concerts SA has allowed me to create something truly special. This is more than just a live show—it’s a celebration of the journey I’ve been on and a taste of what’s to come.
Supporters can expect a thrilling blend of old favorites and new material, with each performance offering a unique and unforgettable experience. Money Badoo is signed under Paradise Sound System, a label renowned for fostering cross-continental collaborations and elevating African talent on a global stage. Known for their out-of-the-box thinking and ability to craft memorable experiences, they have worked with some of the biggest names in the industry to bring visionary concepts to life.
About Concerts SA: Concerts SA is an award-winning project supporting live music in South Africa. Its Mobility Subsidy 2025 programme enables a diverse range of SA’s incredible musicians to tour across the southern African region. This programme receives funding support from the South African National Treasury’s Jobs Fund and the Southern African Music Rights Organisation (SAMRO) as part of the Festival Enterprise Catalyst (FEC).
When I first came across Block Beats’ new body of work it was a month since its release. It was the ominous production of ‘Spooky’ coupled by a black and white visual featuring PRXNCE in his most cocky persona that piqued my interest. Blocka Beats is a seasoned producer in the Kenyan music scene bursting into the scene with “Nairobi Yetu,” released in 2021. Since then he has been on an upward trajectory working with artists across a vast soundscape. From working with Swahili Papi, Hiribae, Karun, Hendrick Sam and more, his portfolio is a sea of wealth when it comes to community. Prior to releasing his latest body of work,”Three-peat,”he has released several body of works including “R&B:Roe&Blocka,” and “No Hooks Just Bars.”
“Three-peat” is a rap project revolving around Blocks Beats and PRXNCE, with appearances from the Shrap OG Jovie Jovv, Tokyo Sauce and Mvroe. The three songs in the EP sees PRXNCE more self assured than before as he bluntly raps “…last time nlishika L sikumbuki last time walikula L ni kama juzi// I really am the best there is right now..” in ‘Spooky.’ It is evident that Blocks Beats has an ear for talent as he selectively curated an EP for his fans and lovers of rap. His keen detail to production is heard in ‘Ongeza’ as he seamlessly blends Tokyo Sauce and Jovie Jovv’s personalities with Prxnce. The beat drop comes at the perfect time complimenting Tokyo Sauce’s voice.
The collaboration between Blocka Beats and PRXNCE is the perfect thing I have heard in the Hip-Hop scene. PRXNCE has been the face of uptown rap when Kenyan rap started receiving local recognition. Over the years, Prxnce has established his position in the ecosystem with rap projects “Hitstape,” and “Comeback SZN.” His laid back raps evolve in a different flow adding on his ability to switch between Swahili and English pique most listeners. Blocka’s production complements PRXNCE’s rapping style. His cadence and confidence are top tier as he sneers at everyone who doubted him while Blocka’s keen ear for sounds create a timeless body of work. ‘Ongeza,’ sees the listeners taken on a sonic journey with the placement of the instruments. As the song starts there is gradual progression of sounds involved from finger snaps to the signature drill beats.
‘Stay Active,’ was released as the lead single featuring Mvroe. Immediately the song starts there is a sense of nostalgia that seethes through the production. The bass drum leaves an imprint as Mvroe steadily delivers the addictive hook doubled with a party boy aesthetic “..Everyday I cook like I am serving//I got lipgloss on both cheeks from two baddies..” PRXNCE goes on double or nothing in the outro track as Mvroe already set the pace. “..One time had a fling with a single mother almost had a stepson..” he cheekily states over the recurrent 808s. ‘Stay Active,’ perfectly sums up the three part EP on an upbeat production.
“Three-peat,” serves as an assemblage of some of the strongest voices in the rap scene. Grammatically peat is the top part of the soil and serves as the most useful part since it has nutrients. Listening to the tape makes you feel that you are interacting with the top tier in the rap industry.
