In recent times the Federal Capital Territory of Nigeria, Abuja has been breeding new talents competing on the mainstream music industry with the likes of ODUMODUBLVCK and PsychoYP leading that race, Tobii WTW is also pushing his craft and the talented Singer-Songwriter, is set to captivate music lovers worldwide with the release of highly anticipated mixtape, “Trenches & Mindset.” This unique compilation takes listeners on a sonic journey through various genres, including Afro fusion, drill, and hard-hitting pop slurs, showcasing Tobii WTW’s exceptional musical prowess.
Born and raised in the federal capital territory Nigeria, Abuja, Tobii WTW’s passion for music was ignited at a young age. Immersed in diverse musical influences, he developed a deep appreciation and love for different types and genres of music. Now, with “Trenches & Mindset,” Tobii WTW unveils his distinctive sound, blending elements of energy, charisma, lyricism, and precise delivery.
With Catchy hooks, choruses with thought-provoking lyrics and captivating storytelling is what sets Tobii WTW apart from his peers. Each track on the mixtapeshowcases his mastery of crafting compelling narratives that resonate with listeners. Furthermore, Tobii WTW’s energetic ad libs and captivating live performances make him a complete entertainer and performance artist.
The aim of the artist is to make a lasting impact on the music industry, pushing boundaries and challenging traditional norms. “Trenches & Mindset” serves as a testament to his unrivaled talent and determination to leave an indelible mark on the global music scene. Listen Below
It’s the best of both worlds as iconic Multi award winning Nigerian-American gospel hip-hop artiste, BOUQUI, teams up with veteran Australian-American singer-songwriter, Chris Falson, author of the iconic gospel classic, made popular by legendary singer, Ron Kenoly, “All Honor”.
BOUQUI breathes new life into the beloved worship anthem, as she infuses her eclectic style of hip-hop, over Chris Falson’s infectious vocals and harmonies, laced over a potpourri of soft rock and hip-hop beats produced by the hugely talented MMj, BOUQUI’s elder brother.
As Chris Falson sings effortlessly and BOUQUI spits her rapid-fire rhymes, the classic “All Honour” is reborn and finds its way back into your playlist, leaving you no choice, but to keep it on repeat.
Speaking on the original song and the new collaboration, Chris Falson expressed his surprise, when he learnt that someone was interested in recording his now almost 30-year-old song. Explaining how he had originally written the song for worship in his local church, and a chance meeting with a mutual acquaintance led to the song being recorded by Ron Kenoly, which sparked off his ministry as a renowned songwriter and worship leader.
BOUQUI, a recent graduate of Leadership Principles from Harvard Business School, is no stranger to creating instant classics and timeless music, and her latest collaboration with Chris Falson is set to fit in nicely alongside her other evergreen collection of songs. In her words, “with this re-fix of “All Honor”, I’m attempting to start a new genre, I call it W.R.A.P – Worship with Rhythm and Poetry. It’s where worship meets poetry.”
Fresh off stellar performances at the “Back To Azonto” and “Boomplay Campus Tour,” Ghanaian rapper E.L has taken it upon himself to spearhead the revival of the cherished genre. Through his dedication and musical prowess, he aims to reintroduce Azonto to the world stage and reignite the passion and enthusiasm it once commanded. Produced by the renowned Kojo Steve, “Soba” is a groundbreaking fusion of Azonto and Hip-hop, boasting heavy bass and an undeniable bounce. It embraces a cross-genre appeal that seamlessly blends the best of both worlds.
“Soba” is a euphoric anthem that captures the essence of feeling carefree and ecstatic, much like the spirit of a wild night after a party, thanks to good company and studio vibes. The brainchild of the acclaimed music producer Kojo Steve, “Soba” was masterfully crafted to showcase E.L’s unique talent and captivating style.
Describing the creative process behind “Soba”
“Kojo and I hit the studio on a crazy night after a party. None of us were sober, I guess. The energy was electrifying, and we channeled that into the song, making it a feel-good anthem that celebrates life, joy, and the essence of a wild night out.”
E.L
As the second release of the year for E.L, “Soba” signifies his commitment to providing fans with a steady stream of exceptional music in 2023. With a slew of projects in the works, the rapper is ready to make a lasting impact on the music industry.
Stream “SOBA” on your favorite music store
Elom Adablah, better known by his stage name E.L, is a multiple award-winning rapper, singer, producer, and sound engineer known for bringing contemporary Ghanaian music to the forefront of African culture. He also made a name as the pioneer of the Azonto genre, which took Ghana by storm in the early 2010s. In his 15year career, the rapper has churned out many hit songs and won several awards, including “Artist of the Year” at the 2016 Ghana Music Awards. An energetic and stellar performer, E.L also toured with legendary American singer Lauryn Hill.
Get ready to kick off the weekend with a bang, because it’s Fresh Music Friday! We’ve scoured the musical landscape of the motherland to bring you the latest and best hiphop tracks that have just dropped. Whether you’re looking for some new bars to spit or hiphop songs to keep you jamming, we’ve got you covered.
This week our Fresh Music Friday playlist is filled with a diverse line up of talented artist as well as accomplished superstars as we bring to you yet another 20 tracks of the best and freshest hip-hop songs released this week. Our Cover star for the week is fast rising Nigerian female Rapper Perky as she releases her debut project The 19th and her track Perky Threat is featured as the opening track to the banging playlist. Somalian rapper JB appears for the first time on our playlist as he released a new single titled I HAD A DREAM and Afrobeat global superstar Burnaboy just released his 7th studio album “I TOLD THEM” heavily inspired by hip-hop and Wu-Tang clan as his song Cheat on Me featuring UK rapper Dave is the 3rd track on this week’s playlist. Other features on this week’s playlist includes South African’s J-smash, Stou from Tunisia, Vic Mensa, 10Ten, Mark Akol and usual suspect Boeyylee.
JimoWorld is a Christian Hip-Hop artist that hails from Rooderport in Gauteng, South Africa and has been rapping/producing gospel music for 3 years. JimoWorld who runs “Jesus is Lord ministries” spends most of his free time producing/mixing and mastering music.
The young rapper and producer has collaborated with various international CHH artists and doesn’t take his gift lightly, his lyrics are loaded with weapons that start a war whenever you press play. JimoWorld also shoots his music videos himself.
We had a chat with JimoWorld as he talks about his passion, album and music.
Steam album on Spotify
Q. Who is JimoWorld for those who don’t know?
A. JimoWorld is a vessel that’s used by The Most high in a time like this present age, JimoWorld invites you into the perspective of a young man zealous for the God of our forefathers Yeshua and invites the army of God with his kingdom sound.
Q. Why music and what drives your passion to music?
A. I’ve always been inspired by music and I have been making music since I was in the secular world, then I found Christ in the year 2019 and ever since I’ve been making music that glorifies God and still shows my perspective and personal life.
Q. What inspires your music?
A. What inspires my music is what I experience in my personal life, all the trauma, miracles and revelation i have seen contributes to my drive and sound.
Q. Has this project spoken to you in any way and what lessons have you learnt while putting this project together?
A. It has taught me a lot about the type of sound I posses and also what i’m trying to put out not only as an artist but as a message to humanity, people need to know the God we serve.
Q. What birthed the project Revelation Season 1 & 2 and who produced both albums?
A. What birthed the album was the inspiration we got living in times like these and my brother T-Junction came with the name Revelation Season, and Revelation Season 2 came as a follow up because of the amount of music we have made and also the reviews of Revelation Season 1. Many people don’t know that i’m a producer as well so I produced all projects on the album.
Q. What’s your favorite song of both albums and why?
A. I don’t have a favourite song on the album all tracks holds a very special value to me because of how it came and the energy we get out of them.
Q. What are you expectations of this album and what do you hope it’ll achieve for your listeners?
A. My expectations is that it will have an intense impact on today’s youth to realise the power of music and that it will bring them back to serving Jesus with a zeal.
Q. Is there any point you decided to give up on music and what made you not too?
A. At the beginning I thought about it because I wanted to serve God like how I see men in the faith do but I realised that music is part of the ministry God has given me.
Q. As an artist what is that distinct thing that stands you out?
A. I think my distinct sound creates a war or is liken to a war chant in the spirit.
Q. What’s your insight on CHH in South Africa; what do you see less and what would you like to see more of?
A. The quality of music in Christian Hip-Hop in South Africa does not compete with the secular sound and people, I would love to see more artists get the standard of sound to be able to compete.
Q. What is next for JimoWorld, a Revelation Season 3 or something entirely different?
A. Definitely more content, music videos and definitely Revelation Season 3.
Q. Any advice or message for fellow artists?
A. My advice for artists is to first find your purpose in Christ before making music because music is a very powerful and dangerous tool if you don’t know how to use it, for those in Christ, people appreciate quality music that displays your character, experience and perspective and that can ultimately glorify God.
Phrv is a recording artist and songwriter who talks about his faith and real life experiences. Phrv likes to see himself as a Christian first before any other thing because that’s where everything that comes out from him is rooted in. Phrv is an introverted person but can get really loud when he is in his zone which is once in a blue moon.
The artist released his second studio album, “The Space In My Head”, on 14th July 2023 which consist of 16 tracks featuring artists like Menxee, Sal Ly, Warsheep, Royrex, Crid Kore, Tissann, Minkir, DAM!, Eazy Bob Wizzy, Oba Reengy, Leritmwa, Chapta5ive, Akoji and Peer Pressure MCs.
The album is a tale of a journey from distress and being lost or seemingly far from God to finding home. Just like the Title “The Space in My Head” Phrv shares about what goes on in his head at every given point and also gets us to show how beautiful the mind can be if we let it.
This is Phrv 2nd studio album which took a whole lot of amazing creatives to bring this to life. And it was produced by Mykkel Otteh and King Davo. “The Space In My Head” album’s expectation is for every listener to have their own unique experience and most importantly that every listener gets to know that God sees them and they are not alone.
Background:
Born Victor Eche Ekainu on the 5th of September 1993 in Kaduna state, Nigeria. He grew up in a musical family were he had uncles who would always play hip hop and pop music and watch musical videos, his parents made sure to get him children Christian music collections like “Sing and Play, The Donot man, Kids Praise, Kidsong and the likes. And he was a member of the children’s choir.
Phrv musical journey got ignited in secondary school seeing some of his mates rapping and singing, to writing his own rap lyrics. Before his rise into Christian Hip Hop, he looked up to the likes of Eminem, DMX, Tuface, Ja Rule, Sisqo, P Square but as the journey into Christian Hip-Hip began he got inspired and hooked on the likes of Spokesman, Rooftop MCs, DaBoomsha fka Rapsody, Soul Flame, Lecrae, Flame, Group1crew, Dream Junkies, NF, KB…
He attended Federal Government College, Vandeikya, Benue state, then went on to complete his higher education education at Daystar Christian Academy, Kaduna state. Then a graduate of Microbiology from the Federal University of Technology, Minna, Niger state. Phrv hails from Otukpo local government of Benue state and is the first of 4 children.
Career:
Phrv started his music career in 2017 when he released his debut EP, The Pre-Season EP. In 2018 he released his Second EP, Cold. In 2019 he released his major project, a mixtaped titled Year Of The Wolf, then he dropped his 3rd EP Something For The Dreamers in 2020, in 2021 he dropped a 2 song EP titled From The Heart. Then dropped EP number 4 titled Moments, Glitches & Motions closely followed by Somewhere In Oblivion in the same year. And his first album The Coloured Tape dropped in 2022 and later that year he put out a joint EP with “Skie Music” titled The Link Up.
He has put out and collaborated on over 100 songs in the course of his career, having 8 projects to his name (1 Mixtape, 1 album and 6 EPs)
The global hip-hop scene has always been a melting pot of diverse cultures and influences, giving rise to unique sub-genres and artistic voices. In recent years, the emergence of Bronx Drill has taken the music world by storm, characterized by its hardcore lyrics and aggressive beats. Amid this wave of innovation, a remarkable artist named Slow has made history as the first Middle Eastern rapper to bring Bronx Drill to the streets of Egypt.
Slow’s Unique Journey Born and raised in maadi, Slow’s journey into the world of hip-hop started like many other artists with an appreciation for music and a desire to express himself. However, what sets Slow apart is his bold decision to fuse his hood roots with the raw energy of Bronx Drill. Drawing inspiration from his own life experiences, Slow’s music became a powerful medium to shed light on the struggles faced by many in his community. Bridging Cultures Through Music Slow’s foray into Bronx Drill is more than just a musical experiment; it’s a bridge between two seemingly distant cultures. By infusing traditional Middle Eastern sounds, melodies, and languages into the pulsating beats of Bronx Drill, Slow offers listeners a fresh perspective on the universal themes of resilience, struggle, and triumph.
Listen to the latest single from the Egyptian Driller
His lyrics speak of the challenges faced in the streets of maadi but also by those in marginalized communities across the globe. Challenges and Triumphs Breaking new ground is never easy, and Slow faced his fair share of challenges. Adapting Bronx Drill to suit the Middle Eastern audience while maintaining its authenticity required a delicate balance. Slow navigated linguistic and cultural nuances to create a sound that resonates both with his local listeners and the global Bronx Drill community. As he gained recognition, his lyrics became anthems for those seeking empowerment and a voice.
Slow’s ability to raise awareness about issues through his music highlighted the immense influence that artists can wield in sparking positive change. As the first Middle Eastern rapper to embrace Bronx Drill, Slow might inspire a new generation of artists to blend their own cultural identities with bronx Drill. This musical exchange enriches the hip-hop landscape and reminds us that creativity knows no boundaries. Conclusion Slow’s journey from the streets of Egypt to the heart of the Bronx Drill movement showcases the transformative power of music. His ability to merge his Middle Eastern heritage with the edgy energy of Bronx Drill has not only elevated his own artistry but has also opened doors for cultural exchange and understanding. Slow’s impact as a pioneer goes beyond music – it’s a testament to the unifying force of art in a world where diversity and creativity are more important than ever.
It’s been an arduous journey for Rayoe on his career path to greatness. Weaving through the labyrinth of life while documenting his experience through cinematic lyrics, Rayoe launches his latest single, “Miracle Road,” depicting a gritty tale on a backdrop of smooth jazz horns layered over mellifluous synths and drums to complete the trap base production.
The rapper maps out his quest from the tropical shores of West Africa to the bright lights of Manhattan and eventually lands on the sunny hills of Los Angeles.
Although the video was shot on the coastlines of both Ghana and California, Rayoe rhymes, “I trace my legacy back to Yendi,” embracing his ancestral lineage and roots to the Dagomba tribe located in the northern region of Ghana.
The honesty encapsulated in this song, coupled with its relatability, is why “Miracle Road” transcends different demographic and cultural barriers. Both verses are thought-provoking and personal, complimented by a harmonious ear candy hook that serves as the cherry on top of the icing.
“Miracle Road” isn’t a song you casually play at a party while conversing. It’s most suitable for a “dolo” car ride when embarking on a long trip while reflecting on life… With the song on replay of cause : )
Listen on Spotify
Check out Miracle Road by Rayoe on all streaming platforms
Kordy Blakka has joined forces with the talented Soul Marley to create a captivating Afro drill track titled “Grilled Fish.” This unique and energetic collaboration promises to deliver an infectious blend of Afro beat rhythms and drill-inspired beats, setting the stage for a new musical experience that transcends genres.
This exciting release comes at a time when the global music scene is embracing a diverse range of influences, and “Grilled Fish” is at the forefront of this evolution. Kordy Blakka and Soul Marley’s collaboration is a testament to their shared commitment to pushing the boundaries of music and creating art that connects on a profound level.
“I am thrilled to have had the opportunity to work with Soul Marley on ‘Grilled Fish.’ We wanted to create something that would not only get people moving but also showcase the power of musical fusion. The blend of afro and drill styles in this song is something truly special, and I can’t wait for our fans to experience it,”
Kordy Blakka
Soul Marley added, “Working with Kordy Blakka on ‘Grilled Fish’ has been an incredible journey. We wanted to capture the essence of afro drill and create a sound that is both authentic and ground-breaking. I believe this song will resonate with a wide range of audiences and showcase the beauty of musical collaboration.”
Listen to “Grilled Fish” on all streaming Platform
Amaarae is wet and flowing. Flowing with bold and audacious statements made with the body more than the mouth. The boundaries for African music, lead by Nigerian Afrobeats and South African Amapiano are constantly moving, and on her sophomore effort , Amaarae pushes them even further. Burna Boy became the first Nigerian act to headline a UK stadium early this month, and Wizkid sold out three consecutive nights at the prestigious O2 Arena last year, amongst other accolades.
In 2020, the ambitious Atlanta-born and Accra raised Ama Serwah Genfi introduced the world to her dark, mystical but very sexy world on her debut album ‘The Angel You Don’t Know.‘
Before then, ardent followers of the Nigerian Alté community were already familiar with Ama’s whispery, classy Alté-pop from her debut mixtape and features and cameos alongside the rest of the Nigerian Alté community.
Released by Interscope Records on June 9, 2023. The album was supported by two pre-released singles, “Reckless & Sweet” and the very Gen-Z-centric “Co-Star”. ‘Wasted Eyes’ accompanied the album on arrival.
If “The Angel You Don’t Know’ was a dystopian motion picture, ‘Fountain Baby’ is the Utopian aftermath of neo-tantric, sexual and divine feminine expressionism.
In motion picture fashion, the Cracker Mallo co-produced ‘Angels in Tibet’ opens the album with Opera style violin lead orchestra composition—after a short prologue-esque intro.
Amaa goes on a search of sexual and feminine freedoms and hedonistic pleasures on most of ‘Fountain Baby,’ hinted on the cleavage teasing cover art work quite reminiscent of Janelle Monae’s mammary glands flashing antics while rolling out ‘The Age Of Pleasure.’— This is nevertheless juxtaposed by the singer seeking a lover to take her out of the proverbial “streets” on the counter-titled ‘Princess Goes Digital.’
The song plays like a Babyface penned and Toni Braxton performed number from the early 2000s but with a modern day twist, while ‘Sex, Violence, Suicide’ is as futuristic as Utopia on wax, think Mad Max: Fury Road.
There is nothing more new age than titling a single from the album after a horoscope app, ‘Co-Star’ housed some of the best writing, most memorable flow and artistic honesty on the album.
Official Music Video for Co-Star
There’s no way you’re Virgo Cute but far from loyal Gotta be a Leo You so fucking spoiled Maybe you’re a Sag You nag You nasty Aries bitches bad But damn, I’ll pass please Crazy like Aquarius Text me when you’re serious
The song’s verses are delivered in a semi-rap, Doja Cat-esque cadence, over an up-tempo, percussion laden instrumental.
Poetic titles like ‘Princess Goes Digital,’ ‘Water From Home,’ and ‘Come Home To God’ are the beacon fro some of the classy degeneracy.
Amaa has always been unapologetic of making music for the world, hence her focus on embracing her American, European and Nigerian audiences, rather than focusing on catering for the local Ghanaian listenership. It is worthy of note that ‘Big Steppa,’ borrows elements of Hiplife on the instrumentation although the performance is very much Amaa’s forté.
‘Counterfeit’ has some of the most stand out production on the album, if not the best. 2000s R&B pop meets Arabian flutes and West African griot drums as Amaa whispers lyrics about her Hugh Hefner-esque sexcapades but with a lesbian twist, strip club music has never sounded more artistic.
On the very next track, the listener find that all of that is a defence mechanism against unrequited emotions for lovers who like to “love em and leave em,” as she sings” you think I’m feeling a way, it’s not like you love me, I know you don’t love me,” on ‘Disguise.’
“I wanna party right now,” she sings on the songs hook. Day one fans will recognize this of escaping this pattern romantic torture with materialism from 2020’s ‘Sad Gurlz Luv To Party.’
Ever since her debut on the mainstream scene, Amaarae’s sexuality had been a topic of curiosity due to her eccentric fashion choices and lyrics. On ‘Fountain Baby the Ghanaian eaves no room for questioning what end of the spectrum she belongs, even though her country is still one of those without legislation to protect people on that end of the sexual spectrum.
Lyrics “like my coffee with some head in the morning,” “pussy like Bermuda afternoons” enable neo-tantric sexual fantasies—the sexualization of the divine feminine evident on the religious references metaphorized into sexual statements on ‘Come Home To God.’
Alimony Ama closes the album with unforgettable lyrics like:
“Shawty say she love me like she love the Lord When I’m in that pussy, I’m above the law If I had the world, I still would end it all Thousand and one reasons not to get involved I’ma call my ex and say I love her in the past tense Drinking from a fountain, she anoint me like a pastor Triple-winged angel ’bout to turn me to a bastard Devil doing favors that a nigga never asked for.”
On ‘Fountain Baby,’ Amaarae sets out to take African music to the world, packaged in decoration that make it easily access to the western demography by borrowing a log of western styles due to her globetrotter upbringing, but she still caters to home with Afropop numbers like ‘Aquamarine Luvs Ecstacy,’ that sound like she took a page off Wizkid’s 2020 classic ‘Made in Lagos.
HIGHLIGHTS: Strong, poetic, fantasy baring lyrics, genre fusion, sonic experimentation, production, ambitiousness.
LOWLIGHTS: the almost sporadic transitioning of songs
STRONGEST SONG(S): Co-Star, Disguise, Come Home To God
WEAKEST SONG(S): All My Love, sex violence suicide
PRODUCTION: 10
LYRICISM:10
FEATURES: NIL
COHESION:8
TRANSITION: 7
TOTAL: 9.0/10
VERDICT: Replete with nearly unforgettable melodies and bad b***h quotes, ‘Fountain Baby is more’ accessible and commercially appealing, to a wider array of audiences but it in no way loses the eccentricity and mystery that the artiste is known for since she debuted on the music scene in 2017.
Amaa’s artistic shape shifting keeps the album from going stale despite having no features. ‘Fountain Baby’ is a worthy ‘SOS’ to ‘The Angel You Don’t Know’s ‘Ctrl.’ A classic if it stands the taste of time.
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