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Ish Kevin’s New Song “Africa Rise” Inspires Unity and Self-Expression

Tela Wangechi
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Ish Kevin’s New Song “Africa Rise” Inspires Unity and Self-Expression

Rwandan hip-hop artist Ish Kevin has once again captivated fans with his latest release, “Africa Rise.” This powerful song, produced by Juni Quickly and Just Mike, carries a deep message about African unity, resilience, and self-representation. Accompanied by an electrifying performance video, “Africa Rise” is quickly gaining traction as an anthem of empowerment and hope.

At its core, “Africa Rise” is a clarion call for Africans to take ownership of their narratives. Ish Kevin emphasizes that no one can tell the African story better than its own people. He urges the continent to embrace its identity, showcase its potential, and break free from stereotypes imposed by outsiders. The song resonates with themes of self-determination, resilience, and pride, making it a significant release not only for Rwanda but for Africa as a whole.

In an era where global media often focuses on Africa’s struggles rather than its triumphs, Ish Kevin’s message is a refreshing reminder of the continent’s strength and potential. The song challenges Africans to take control of their destiny and redefine how they are perceived on the world stage.

Lyrically, Ish Kevin delivers a profound message with a compelling flow, seamlessly blending his signature hip-hop style with African influences. The track’s uplifting beats and rich instrumentation enhance its powerful message, making it both an inspiring and enjoyable listen. The production by Juni Quickly and Just Mike ensures that the song maintains a modern yet authentic African sound, appealing to a wide audience across different musical tastes. With lines that emphasize hope, resilience, and African excellence, Ish Kevin’s lyrical prowess shines through, reinforcing his reputation as one of Rwanda’s most influential hip-hop voices.

To complement the song’s message, Ish Kevin released a visually striking performance video. Set against a backdrop that symbolizes Africa’s rich cultural heritage, the video exudes passion and determination. Ish Kevin’s energetic performance, combined with artistic cinematography, brings the song’s message to life. The visuals emphasize African beauty, diversity, and the power of unity, reinforcing the call for solidarity among Africans.

Beyond advocating for unity and self-expression, Ish Kevin also uses “Africa Rise” to call for peace and stability across the continent. He acknowledges the struggles that many African nations face, including conflicts, economic hardships, and political instability. By urging Africans to stand together, he reinforces the idea that true progress can only be achieved when there is peace and cooperation. Ish Kevin delivers a single that goes beyond entertainment and carries a strong social impact. His ability to blend socially conscious themes with a commercial sound demonstrates his versatility as an artist and his commitment to making a difference through music.

Ish Kevin’s “Africa Rise” is more than just a song—it is a movement. With its compelling message, powerful lyrics, and captivating visuals, the song serves as a wake-up call for Africans to take charge of their destiny. As the song continues to gain momentum, it is set to inspire a new generation of Africans to rise, unite, and embrace their true potential.

Watch “Africa Rise”

Lyrical Joe Announces Highly Anticipated Sophomore Album – I AM

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Lyrical Joe Announces Highly Anticipated Sophomore Album – I AM

Award-winning Ghanaian rapper Lyrical Joe is not letting down with his push for the throne of the Ghanaian rap scene as he is set to make waves once again with the release of his highly anticipated sophomore album, I AM. Known for his intricate wordplay, deep lyricism, and unparalleled storytelling, Lyrical Joe promises a project that will redefine his artistry and solidify his place in the rap scene.

Following the success of his debut album and a string of hit singles, I AM is expected to showcase Lyrical Joe’s growth, versatility, and artistic depth. The album will explore themes of self-discovery, resilience, and purpose, offering fans an immersive experience through powerful lyricism and dynamic production.

This project is personal. It’s a reflection of who I am, where I’ve been, and where I’m headed. I can’t wait for my fans to experience this journey with me

LYRICAL JOE

I AM is scheduled to drop soon, with the tracklist and featured artists announcement set to be unveiled in the coming weeks.

Stay tuned for updates and exclusive previews by following @_lyricaljoe on Instagram.

Listen to Photo Album by Lyrical Joe

BoiBlacc’s “Upset”: A Soulful Journey Through Love and Reflection

Tela Wangechi
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BoiBlacc’s “Upset”: A Soulful Journey Through Love and Reflection

Music has always been a powerful medium for storytelling, a space where emotions find their rhythm and melodies become vessels for deeply personal narratives. BoiBlacc’s latest release, “Upset”, is a testament to this artistic expression, blending R&B and jazzy hip-hop influences to craft an introspective journey through love, uncertainty, and emotional vulnerability. Released on January 31st, 2025, this track marks his first offering of the year and serves as the second half of a two-track single.

“Upset” is an intricately crafted track that merges smooth bass lines, soulful piano melodies, and finely layered percussion to create a warm yet contemplative atmosphere. The production is rich, effortlessly balancing laid-back instrumentation with emotionally charged lyricism. There’s an undeniable jazz influence woven into the hip-hop fabric of the song, a signature sound that BoiBlacc executes flawlessly.

The inclusion of electronic drums and subtle brass elements gives the track a dynamic depth, elevating it beyond traditional hip-hop structures. It’s a soundscape that feels both intimate and grand—an open invitation for listeners to get lost in its immersive rhythms.

At its core, “Upset” delves into the nuances of love and human connection. BoiBlacc uses his introspective lyricism to navigate the push and pull of romantic relationships, capturing moments of doubt, passion, and longing. Lines like “I can’t remember where I found you“ suggest the blurred lines between past and present emotions, a recurring theme in the track that speaks to the unpredictable nature of love.

The title itself is reflective of the emotional turbulence that comes with deep connections. The song doesn’t present love in a simple, idealized form; instead, it embraces the contradictions, the hesitations, and the insecurities that accompany intimacy. Through his storytelling, BoiBlacc invites listeners to relate to these sentiments, making the track deeply personal yet universally resonant.

One of BoiBlacc’s strengths as an artist is his ability to deliver emotion with sincerity. His vocal performance in “Upset” feels raw and unfiltered, making it easy for listeners to connect with his words on a personal level. His tone fluctuates between smooth and urgent, mirroring the complexities of the emotions he’s expressing.

His vocal delivery also complements the instrumentals seamlessly. Rather than overpowering the beat, he allows the music to breathe, creating a synergy between his voice and the rich production. This balance makes “Upset” a track that demands attention not just for its lyrics, but for the entire sonic experience it offers. With its melancholic yet groovy energy, “Upset” isn’t just another love song—it’s a reflection of the emotional highs and lows that come with real human relationships. Its strength lies in its honesty, its layered production, and its ability to capture feelings that many experience but struggle to put into words.

For fans of soulful hip-hop, R&B-infused rap, and introspective lyricism, this track is a must-listen. It carries the warmth of a late-night conversation, the weight of unspoken thoughts, and the groove of a song you can’t help but replay. “Upset” serves as a strong statement of where he is as an artist—fearless in his vulnerability, meticulous in his craft, and unwavering in his commitment to authentic storytelling. This track isn’t just a moment; it’s a movement in his musical journey.

Stream “Upset.”

Jay Jody and Marcus Harvey Speak Freedom and Flight on Black Cards

Milliswa Vilane
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Jay Jody and Marcus Harvey Speak Freedom and Flight on Black Cards

Revenge Club Records is at it again. And this time it’s none other than Jay Jody opening up their 2025 season with a new single Black Cards featuring Marcus Harvey. Released on 31 January 2025, Black Cards is a smooth and melodic braggadocious earworm that epitomizes ambition and unapologetic confidence. In the financial world, a black card is one of the most exclusive symbols of wealth and status, often linked to unlimited spending power and luxurious privileges. In South Africa, as in many parts of the world, owning a black card is a badge of success, exclusivity, and hard work. This significance resonates deeply in a country where disparities in wealth are stark, and the journey to financial freedom is one that many aspire to but few achieve. This makes the song title a fitting title, as Jay Jody and Marcus Harvey tap into this symbolism in Black Cards by celebrating their elite status and achievements, both in material wealth and personal growth.

Listen to Black Cards here



The cover art itself designed by DJ Trix SA, is a canvas of simplicity and minimalism. A sleek, jet black card adorned with a few creative twists such as the RCR(Revenge Club Records) logo at the top, Jay Jody’s name sitting proudly at the bottom right where VISA might usually be and instead of an account holder’s name, the card details the song title, artist credits(Jay Jody and Marcus Harvey) , including producers (Marcus Harvey, ShooterKhumz and SickBeatPrince). This minimalist yet bold design mirrors the title and content of the song quite impeccably.

Black Cards Official Cover Art


Getting to know Marcus Harvey’s sexual preferences was not on my 2025 bucket list but he starts off the song with provocative flair establishing dominance and stellar confidence.
“Baby, you can’t fuck with me unless you give me top.”
These provocative lyrics immediately set the tone, reinforcing a theme of exclusivity and exuding a domineering aura that suggests that Marcus Harvey demands respect from those who engage with him(including his lovers) . The chorus, paired with Marcus Harvey’s charismatic delivery, sets a tone of unshakable confidence that carries through the rest of the song.


The song also celebrates success, freedom and the joy of achieving what was once unattainable. Jay Jody’s verses are masterstrokes. Defined by lines like, “I’m just getting money, so much money, look like props,” a simile that showcases how Jay Jody is making so much money it almost feels unreal and theatrical. Jay Jody and Marcus Harvey embody true Hip Hop culture on Black Cards. A culture where flexing is often a cultural staple, a middle finger up to the haters and critics of how far they have come and how they are reaping the fruits of their labour.


Jay Jody showcases his rap bravado in his verse, delivering a powerful set of bars about his work ethic and creativity. Referencing his impact, Jody raps:
“Every time I drop, I make that shit feel like a comet.”
The imagery here suggests not only the rarity of his talent but also its undeniable impact when it’s unleashed. He refers to himself as a cosmic event, a force that reinforces the musical universe with every single drop.

Jay Jody(Left) and Marcus Harvey(right) shot by @optical.fps


Given South Africa’s history, where inequality has long divided access to wealth and opportunity, the black card takes on a deeper meaning. It is a metaphor for liberation, representing freedom to move, create, exist and live in a limitless manner. It is about black people claiming spaces in elite circles that were once inaccessible during apartheid times. With this release, Jay Jody continues to write his name in stone, as a son of the South African soil, reflecting the times and offering social commentary. A skill that has become his competitive advantage. And Black Cards? A song that has rightfully earned a spot on my “Motivational Playlist”.


Jay Jody(Left) and Marcus Harvey(Right) shot by @optical.fps

Listen to Black Cards here:https://song.link/blackcards

Kahu$h’s “Kiama” Is New Age HipHop Benediction

Tela Wangechi
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0
Kahu$h’s “Kiama” Is New Age HipHop Benediction

The evolution of music genres and humanity will forever be parallel. Man is naturally curious and their curiosity essentially brings about the necessity of invention. Fifty years down the line, we are still facing new sub genres of Hip-Hop from Trap to a bubbling clique sub-genre from Nairobi dubbed “Kilimani rap.” The latter is a combination of slang and colloquial words from Kilimani – a fancy suburb within Nairobi. Spearheaded by artists such as Prxnce, Korbs, Kahu$h,Ouma, Sabi Wu and more, the sub-genre has found a solid fanbase within Kenya. “Kiama” by Kahu$h is the latest testament that saw the project sit #1 on Apple Music albums.

After more than three years in the game backed up with four projects to his name and a sling of hits including his breakout single “Mi Siwezi,” and “Mastingo,” Kahu$h took a slight sabbatical before his return with “Kiama.” In 14 songs, he makes a couple of statements including “I can rap on any beat with any format because I am the artist and this is my creation.” Breaking out at a young age, he has faced criticism when it comes to his artistry which actually forced him into a one and a half year hiatus of self reflection and affirmation.

Ironically, this has positioned him as one of the ubiquitous faces in Kenyan rap both locally and internationally, the fact that he is a Brighton University alumni aids this fact. This is by no accident or planning but rather by his distinct rap approach, cadence and self awareness that comes with each line he puts out. You can tell the growth he has experienced with the release of each catalogue and “Kiama” lives up to its name. Translated to English the title means blessings and “Time Traveller” starts off with Kikuyu chants. He tests his creative freedom after he places his dad’s voice recording in “Visions Everyday,” talking about his position as Kahu$h’s father, Kahu$h and finding pride in your background. This came as he constantly faces backlash for being the son of a senior government official. In “Mkokoteni,” he makes it clear that his music is more than just having rhyming words, hardcore lyrics or even melodic delivery, music is therapy and it touches on production quality.

Still enjoying his youthful energy his beats are all upbeat with most songs as seen in “Maheni,”and “KujiKata,” having his signature repetitive bridge “…maheni, maheni,maheni, caught you in a..”. One of the most soothing points with how he raps is the fact he doesn’t try too hard to be something he is not. He steadily delivers in his wonted talk-rap and cheeky lines as he sings in “Put It On.” Unlike most rappers, Kahu$h has grasped and studied his audience. He knows a high number of Gen Z suffer from attention deficit issues thus he has mastered the art of simplicity song writing “..Her crib is just like the Brookhouse castle finest things in the East..you get sexy when you talk and not the topic the way you speak..” as he cunningly sings in “My Biggest Fan.”

Kahu$h does have a more cocky side as seen in the last quarter of the project from “Smoky Robinson,” where he gets self conceited to “The Fuckery,” where he stands with Kenyans and goes ablaze on the current oppressive government and the traitors. “Welcome to the land of whatever whatever,’ Kahu$h starts off with a sliver of remorse that he knows his fans will relate to “nchi where freedom fighters are easy to fight, easy to sway.”

“Kiama” is a testament of Kahu$h growth both as an artist and as human. The implementation of his ethnic background in terms of production as seen in “Time Traveller,” to modern 808s in “Maji Haina Shida.” ‘Kiama,‘ is more than a body of hits its a journey into Kahu$h’s universe and understanding his growth for the past one and a half years.

Stream Kiama

Khalee G and Saint Cielo Release “Martha’s Prayer”: A Heartfelt Homage To Faith And Reverence

Milliswa Vilane
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0
Khalee G and Saint Cielo Release “Martha’s Prayer”: A Heartfelt Homage To Faith And Reverence

Khalee G (born Tlotlego Mothibe) and Saint Cielo ( born Kutloano Kopano Lebeta ) are the duo that just keeps on giving. They call themselves “Pitori’s Biggest Kept Secrets,” and rightfully so. As recording artists and producers, their artistry is nothing short of mesmerizing. They are indeed hidden gems shimmering beneath the surface, waiting to be unraveled.


In 2024, the Pretorian duo blessed us with their collaborative tape, “Sunset Drives”, a project that feels like watching the sky melt into warm hues after a long day: calm, serene, tranquil. It’s the kind of music that begs to be played during a slow drive with the windows down, hand-in-hand with a lover, watching the world slip into twilight.

Listen to “Sunset Drives ” here


On Sunday, 2nd of February 2025, they released their first single for the year titled “Martha’s Prayer”. “Martha’s Prayer”, is a soulful earworm that sees the Pretorian artists tightly grip the mic, delivering rich vocals over a minimalized yet smooth production. The cascading piano chords imbue the production with a soulful reverence, evoking the sacred ambiance of a church: an atmosphere perfectly suited to a song titled “Martha’s Prayer”. Khalee G and Saint Cielo have masterfully crafted a sonic journey, purposefully immersing us in a heartfelt homage to faith and reverence. There’s a certain level of spirituality that comes with this song. It’s a song about the power of prayer even in the face of failure and adversity.

Martha’s Prayer Cover Art Shot by N6VMBER


The song in its essence unfolds like a late night prayer whispered into the void: raw and deeply personal. Khalee G and Saint Cielo use their words to paint a haunting portrait of struggle, faith, and the relentless pursuit of a better life. “Martha’s Prayer” is a song that serves as a reminder to get on our knees and “pray a little more” even when our worlds crumble. The cherry on top? It’s delivered in hauntingly smooth vocals that are soul stirring. The end result? A powerful and introspective piece that reignites a feeling of hope and a survivor’s mindset.


At exactly 1 minute and 20 seconds, the song reaches its emotional peak with an excerpt that tugs at the heartstrings: a mother’s voice, urging her children to pray. “Ngwanaka, tsepa thapelo, orapele. Modimo ke yena o tsiba nnete ka bophelo.” (“My child, trust in prayer, pray. God is the only one who truly knows the truth about life.”) Her words carry the weight of generations and depict a mother’s love in the purest way. And just like that, the song seamlessly shifts from prayer to ambition, proving that divine intervention and self-determination walk hand in hand: “Lenna ke nyaka go te pona ka Beemer.” (“I, too, want to make it and drive a Beemer.”)

Listen to “Martha’s Prayer” here:


I’ve never felt more regretful about not fully understanding Spitori. But here’s what I do know: even through the language barrier, “Martha’s Prayer” spoke to me. It wrapped itself around me like a warm embrace from heaven, whispering reassurances into my soul, letting me know that everything somehow, some way will work out. It breathed life into my weary spirit, and I have no doubt that it will do the same for anyone who listens.

Saint Cielo(Left) and Khalee G(right) shot by N6VMBR

Listen to “Martha’s Prayer” here: https://song.link/Marthasprayer

R.B.D. RELEASES HIS DEBUT SOLO ALBUM – RUDE 

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R.B.D. RELEASES HIS DEBUT SOLO ALBUM – RUDE 

Blending the courtroom and the studio, R.B.D. steps boldly into 2025 with RUDE, a masterful  hip-hop/rap album that captures the raw intersection of his dual life as a lawyer and rapper.  Dropping on January 30th, 2025, this project is a candid exploration of the challenges,  triumphs, and lessons that come with balancing two demanding worlds. From navigating the  pressures of legal practice to staying true to his love for rap music, RUDE is an anthem for  anyone striving to harmonize passion and responsibility. 



At its core, RUDE delves into the friction of these dualities. Tracks like Flowers and Crossroads unravel the grit it takes to move between courtrooms and cyphers, while others like  Heartbreak and Hate 2 Love 2.0 celebrate the transformative power of music and love.  Infused with moments of introspection, resilience, and gratitude, the album paints a vivid  picture of R.B.D.’s journey and the life experiences that have molded him into the  multifaceted artist he is today. 

The album boasts an impressive lineup of collaborators, featuring powerhouse artists like Ko-Jo Cue, AratheJay, KooKusi, Kirani Ayat, KiddBerch, and Tradey. Their dynamic  contributions amplify the album’s emotional depth and lyrical brilliance. Producers who  played major parts to the creation of the project are Aaron Dugud, Ranking Made It, Rdee  Beatz, Christoven, Wolfbite, KQ the Artist, Delis Worldwide, Gomez Beatx, Roddy Hanz, Dab  Beatz, MPtaimment, Sinima Beats, and White Eyes. Also complementing the mix are soulful additional vocals from the talented Anabel Rose, Naa Koshie Hagan, and Ewura-Ama Awadzi,  whose voices lend an ethereal touch to the record. 
The lead single, Villain was released on January 24th, and set the tone for the project  accordingly, with its unapologetic narrative and hard-hitting beat.  

Overall, RUDE is a testament to R.B.D.’s artistry, introspection, and undeniable fearlessness.  It is not just an album; it is a statement, a reflection, and a journey worth taking. With RUDE,  R.B.D. solidifies his place in the Ghanaian rap scene as an artist who defies convention. 

Listen to the album here: 

https://easternchild.fanlink.tv/RUDE

X/Instagram/Snapchat/TikTok/Youtube: @rbd_gh 

Other R.B.D. Releases: 

Link: https://linktr.ee./rbdgh

Money Badoo’s “Heartbreak Hotel” : A Masterpiece of Emotional Honesty

Milliswa Vilane
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Money Badoo’s “Heartbreak Hotel” : A Masterpiece of Emotional Honesty

The moment I pressed play on Money Badoo’s “Heartbreak Hotel,” I knew it would be one of those songs that would linger for years to come. Released today, January 24th, 2025, “Heartbreak Hotel” feels like stepping into the mind of someone caught in the push-and-pull of heartbreak, toxic love, and self-awareness. A situation we have all found ourselves in. This song took me straight back to my first heartbreak : 17 years old, naive, and utterly unprepared for the emotional whirlwind that would follow. If you’ve ever been trapped in the loop of love and betrayal, trying to make sense of your feelings while knowing better, “Heartbreak Hotel” will hit home, just like it did for me.


HEARTBREAK HOTEL OFFICIAL ARTWORK

The icing on the cake for this specific song is the lyrics. They are achingly honest as though they were pulled straight from one’s own journal. “To tell the truth / I’m just a fool / I keep falling for your lies,” . Raw, honest, unfiltered, capturing the limbo of knowing you should let go but still clinging on. . That’s exactly how this song makes me feel. A feeling only SZA’s “Drew Barrymore” once evoked in me when I was engulfed in heartbreak, the same heartbreak that inspired me to dive into poetry.

IN PICTURE: MONEYBADOO SHOT BY @no.ordinary.human


This achingly honest lyricism is beautifully accentuated by the dreamy ’80s-inspired synths making “Heartbreak Hotel” song a gem and an emotional experience. From the moment the opening chords hit, “Heartbreak Hotel” pulls you into its world. The production, helmed by Select Play, creates a lush and moody soundscape that’s both nostalgic and fresh, perfectly complementing the song’s ethos. Featuring the velvety tones of Una Rams, the duet unfolds like a conversation between two hearts caught in the throes of love’s complexities. This very duet is the perfect cherry on top, with Una Ram’s velvety tones balancing Money Badoo’s emotional intensity, further highlighting the undeniable chemistry between their voices.

IN PICTURE- UNA RAMS (SUPPLIED)


With “Heartbreak Hotel,” Money Badoo proves she’s a storyteller who knows how to open up her heart and fully immerse listeners into her world. She has crafted a metaphorical space where pain and unrequited love are common, giving us a beautiful glimpse into the darker side of romance.


Keep your eyes peeled on Money Badoo as this single marks a new sonic chapter for her, and is the perfect setup for her upcoming album, M$RYLUV$CMPNY, set to release on March 7th. From this song alone, one can discern that the album is going to be a rich exploration of heartbreak, self-discovery, and, ultimately, empowerment. If “Heartbreak Hotel” is any indication, fans like myself are in for a deeply cathartic journey.

Listen to “Heartbreak Hotel” here: https://paradise.ffm.to/heartbreakhotel

AYON unveils new single titled “Kash Khontanti” featuring KaoticWave

Milliswa Vilane
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AYON unveils new single titled “Kash Khontanti” featuring KaoticWave

On Women’s Day last year, Hip Hop Africa honored the women making strides in South African Hip Hop, among these women, we honored AYON( born Ayanda Mfeka), a rising voice hailing from Durban, KwaZulu-Natal who has since made strides in her own career, having made top 4 of Sportscene’s Put Me On Competition.

AYON pictured with KaoticWave



This past Friday, AYON dropped her first release of the year titled “Kash Khontanti”. On Kash Khontanti, AYON and Kaotiicwave take us on a lyrical odyssey, exploring the unyielding grind, the ache of proving oneself, and the fleeting, golden moments of triumph.

Listen to Kash Khontanti here

The song intertwines hypnotic trap soundscapes with relentless back to back lyricism; making it the type of song that demands to be heard and felt especially during the start of the year; where everyone is standing on business.

“We wanted to create something that not only sounds good, but speaks to the hustle and grind we all go through. This track is a fun vibey song for anyone who’s had to fight to prove themselves,” says AYON.


And they did. The song carries the weight of the streets, and serves as a mirror to everyone that faces self doubt, that faces quiet battles and loud dreams. To AYON we say “Phakama Mbokodo”.



Listen to Kash Khontanti here : ditto.fm/kash-khontanti

Amarii Opens the Eswatini Hip Hop Season with a Tale of Love: Pride & False Claims

Milliswa Vilane
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Amarii Opens the Eswatini Hip Hop Season with a Tale of Love: Pride & False Claims

Fresh from a prolific feature run in 2024, which cemented him as Eswatini Hip Hop’s MVP, Amarii has launched the 2025 hip hop season with a bang. Last Friday (10 January 2025), the Manzini native unveiled his drill-inspired two-pack single, Pride & False Claims. Two words: dynamic and nuanced just like the emotions it explores.

Amarii photographed by @shaun_desousa_




Amarii doesn’t deviate from the topic of love once again. This is a release coming from an artist who understands his superpower. Dead pool has his immortality, The Flash has his super speed, Spider Man has his spider sense. What does Amarii have? The ability to map the contours of love with utmost precision. That is his superpower.

Amarii photographed by @shaun_desousa_

With Pride & False Claims, Amarii follows the thematic path set by his previous works such as  Oxytocin and State of the Heart, blending the hard-hitting cadence of drill with the fluid melodies of trap and plug to weave narratives that seep deep into to the heart. He continues to craft a sonic tapestry of admiration, heartbreak and the endless search for meaning in relationships.

The single opens with Pride, a heady, up-tempo anthem to the thrill of pursuit. A song that pulses with the optimism of new beginnings, where every beat feels like a step closer to something or someone,just out of reach. Here, Amarii’s lyrics strut with confidence, his delivery buoyed by a rhythm that captures the electric energy of admiration.

But no love story is without its shadows. Enter False Claims, the second half of this two-pack: a slower, introspective track that lays bare the dissonance of a relationship frayed by selfishness. The tempo drops, the melodies soften, and the words cut deeper. It is in this contrast that Amarii shines, balancing hope with heartbreak and creating a space where listeners can reflect on their own experiences.

We caught up with Amarii for a quick chat about his latest release:

Q: Can you tell us about the inspiration behind Pride & False Claims and how the theme of love influenced both tracks?

A: From a production standpoint, I wanted to make two beats from the same sample. This was sometime in the middle of 2024, after I hadn’t made a drill beat in a while. I thought, why not? So, I turned the second part into a drill beat. Later, I came across this idea called “sexy drill” (some call it “sensual drill,” but really, there’s no such thing—just call it slizzy!). I decided to add that touch, which I thought was a cool contrast instead of letting the whole song lean in that direction.

The context is just what feels natural to me. Love and relationships are such a big part of everyone’s life, and for me, they’re always somewhere in my subconscious. I don’t even need to think too hard about it—they just spill out. For these tracks, I think it came from experiencing the good and the bad parts of relationships pretty close together. Of course, I had to make it more colorful!

Q: Your music often blends genres, from drill and trap to trapsoul, as seen in Oxytocin and From Bremersdorp With Love. How did experimenting with rap and drill sounds impact the creative process for this two-pack?

A: It gave me room to explore different moods. Drill and plug (the other influence here) are so distinct. Plug focuses more on flow and feel, while drill leans on lyricism. That contrast allowed me to explore both the melodic and lyrical sides of the record. The balance gave me more tools to shape the story and bring it to life in different ways.

Q: Your music frequently explores themes of love and relationships. Do you think this focus is influenced by your name “Thando” meaning love and your stage name, ‘Amarii,’ derived from the Latin word for love?

A: Absolutely. Like I said, love songs just pour out of me. I think it’s always there. Love is such a universal thing, and there’s always something new to say about it.

Q: Pride and False Claims have contrasting tones and messages. How did you approach balancing these emotions while keeping the theme cohesive?

A: Honestly, the tempo was the key. The faster beat in Pride gives it rhythm and an upbeat energy, while slowing things down for False Claims makes it feel more emotional and reflective. Following the vibe of the beat created a natural canvas for the lyrics, which tied everything together.

Q: With this release arriving just in time for the month of love, how do you hope listeners will connect with the stories and emotions in these tracks?

A: I want everyone to find their moment in these songs. Whether you’re in love, fresh from a breakup, or somewhere in between, there’s something here for you. This is just one of many tracks I’m putting out to make sure everyone feels seen and heard.

Q: What makes Pride & False Claims stand out from your previous work, and how does it reflect your growth as an artist?

A: I’m really coming into my own. I’ve been experimenting with finding a natural flow and understanding my voice. If you listen to some of my recent work, you’ll hear the cadence and flows I’ve been honing. I’m staying away from overthinking or writing too much, which has helped me sound more authentic. With Pride & False Claims, I think I’ve reached a point where I love what I’m creating. I’m also exploring mixing and melodies more, really building a unique sound for myself.

What makes this release even more special? The timing. Oh my goodness, The timing. This release, arriving as the world tilts towards the month of love, offers solace, catharsis, and connection. Whether you are in the throes of a new romance or navigating the rubble of a breakup, Amarii’s latest work is there to meet you where you are.

Amarii photographed by @shaun_desousa_

Stream Pride & False Claims here: 

https://amarii.lnk.to/pfc


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