This week, Africa’s bubbling music scene continues to prove why it’s the heartbeat of global music. With new releases pouring in from every corner of the continent, Africa’s finest innovators keep the energy high with fresh dancefloor heaters, sharp new singles and stirring pop melodies.
New music Friday continues to be a reflection of the continent’s thriving soundscape, and African Folder remains committed to providing you with a weekly guide to the best new African songs released this week. South African singer Langa Mavuso delivers his latest body of work Therapy: The other side. Nigerian superstar Adekunle Gold is back with his sixth studio album Fuji. Egyptian sensation Sandy delivers a glossy Arabian pop, Genno, the third single off her forthcoming album.
Here are the best new African songs released this week.
Sandy – Genno
Veteran Egyptian singer Sandy continues to build momentum towards the release of her seventh studio album with Genno, a glossy pop single that combines the cultural essence of Arabian music with the sonic elements of American pop. Lush guitar strings mesh with soft rhythmic percussion as she effortlessly floats over the Aziz El Shafie-produced instrumental.
Adekunle Gold – Fuji (Album)
Nigerian superstar Adekunle Gold is back with his sixth studio album, Fuji. The album is a call back to his sonic roots and cultural heritage as the singer continues to evolve across different sonic soundscapes gracefully. Enlisting a star-studded lineup which includes Davido, Lojay, Asa, Cruel Santino, Robert Glasper, Simi and Yinka Ayefele. Lead single Bobo and the Davido-assisted Only God Can Save Me are this writer’s early favourites.
Shaunmusiq, Mbuxx & Scots Maphuma – Yi Problem
What’s a new music Friday without a thrilling Amapiano banger to set the dancefloors on fire? Shaunmusiq, Mbuxx and Scots Maphuma come out guns blazing with the reverberating Yi Problem. On first listen, it’s clear that this record has all the markings of a continental smash hit. The hypnotic rhythm, playful lyrics and intoxicating bassline are guaranteed to get bodies moving and heads bopping.
Langa Mavuso – Therapy: The other side
Since making his debut in 2016, Langa Mavuso has continued to deliver captivating bodies of work and emotionally charged singles. His latest album is no different. Across 13 tracks, the singer taps into his well of emotions, crafting emotionally and sonically rich music that instantly connects with listeners. Early favorites include Dangerous featuring Yanga Chief and King Perry, Ngiyazifela featuring Nkosana Daughter, and Best friends (control).
Skillz 8figure – Feel’n You
Skillz 8figure turns the heat all the way up on Feel’n You, a silky, sensual record that glides between laid-back Afropop and R&B. His vocals, dripping with sensuality, ride the beat with a smoothness that pulls you in without trying too hard. The record doesn’t rush as Skillz conveys the depths of his intimacy. The song feels like a late-night stare that lingers. The production is warm with glossy synths and a subtle bassline, leaving plenty of space for his voice to truly captivate.
