The New Music Friday Top Picks #43

It is already the first week of December, and the year is quickly coming to a close. However, artists still prove to have some incredible melodies and rhythms for us to use as we wrap up the year. This week’s New Music Friday top picks carefully select some of the best tracks you should be spinning this week.

Boj feat. Pa Salieu – Cana

Straight off his latest album, Duplicity, you will hear the fast-paced track Cana. This standout song features the talented UK-Gambian artist Pa Salieu, adding a unique international flavor to the mix. It is truly impressive to watch as both artists float on super Genio’s production. The chemistry between them is undeniable.

Cana is a track that is built on a good beat and a smooth vibe from the artists on it. The instrumentation is infectious, driving the song forward with high energy while maintaining a cool, collected atmosphere. If you are looking for a song that perfectly bridges the gap between different sounds and cultures, this collaboration is exactly what you need to hear right now.

Elestee feat. Ayra Starr – On A Low

Next up, the bubbling star Elestee taps global sensation Ayra Starr on On A Low. This is a highlight track off her latest body of work titled Mentally, I’m Here. The project itself is making waves, but this song specifically stands out for its confidence and style.

On A Low is that track where Elestee and Ayra Starr carry themselves in high esteem. They are not looking for validation; instead, they are feeling themselves regardless of any relationship ups and downs. The message is clear: self-worth comes first. The way their voices blend while maintaining their individual swagger makes this a powerful anthem for anyone who needs a reminder to stay confident and unbothered by external drama.

Berri-Tiga – Aura 4 Aura

For his 2025 streak, Berri-Tiga keeps it up with Aura 4 Aura. He has been consistent, and this release only proves his staying power. This is his latest track that is off from the vibes of the popular term Aura 4 Aura. The concept is simple but effective: he is giving responsive energy to whatever comes his way.

In this song, he is extremely confident, letting listeners know he matches energy perfectly. Aura 4 Aura is that track that is poised to go viral on social media and in the club, of course. It has a catchy hook and a beat that demands movement, making it a perfect candidate for the next big dance challenge or nightlife anthem.

Tolani feat. Pheelz – Punish You

Switching gears to something more emotional, we have Tolani. Pouring out her feelings in this song about a relationship that failed, Tolani is pissed, and she is holding nothing back. She is not taking it easy on her partner at all. As she sings the striking line, “God punish you for breaking my heart,” she is expressing her disappointment in the rawest way possible.

Pheelz’s feature adds flare to the song’s dynamic. He doesn’t just provide a backing vocal; he uses his lyrics to share his side of the story, creating a dialogue within the music. This makes it a true collaboration track for listeners who like dramatic songs with a narrative. It is a relatable tale of heartbreak, anger, and the messy reality of breakups.

O’Kenneth feat. Medikal, SAMA, Oseikrom Sikanii, Joey B – BALENCIAGA II

Finally, we head over to Ghana for a massive collaboration. O’Kenneth brought four hot rappers from Ghana all together to make a tune for their favorite fashion brand. With Medikal, SAMA, Oseikrom Sikanii, and Joey B on the roster, the lineup is stacked.

They did it smoothly on a Product Base instrumental that hits hard. This five-minute track gave all featured artists the chance to shine and float on this track like they are in space. No verse feels wasted, and everyone brings their unique flow to the table, making BALENCIAGA II a masterclass in Africa’s hip-hop swagger.

That’s a wrap from our 43rd New Music Friday top picks. The variety this week has been outstanding, covering everything from heartbreak anthems to high-fashion rap tracks. I hope everyone got a track for this week from this collection to add to their personal rotation.

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Listen to our full playlist here for more:

Related: Spotify Wrapped 2025: Africa’s Year in Audio Spills Into the Streets

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The Architect of the New Wave: Kblacktheblack’s Rise and Sonic Evolution In the rapidly expanding universe of Nigerian music, Iborn Ogbuluijah Kenneth Nsan is carving out a distinct lane for himself. Known professionally as Kblacktheblack—or simply SBB to his growing fanbase—he represents the new vanguard of hip-hop artists who are reshaping the sonic landscape of the continent. He is not merely a rapper; he is a curator of culture, blending the rhythmic heartbeat of his city with a contemporary vision that aims to influence African pop culture through music, fashion, and creative direction. His goal is ambitious yet clear: to leave a lasting impact on the cultural landscape and shape the narrative for the next generation of creatives. At the core of Kblacktheblack’s artistry lies a firm commitment to three values: respect, authenticity, and creativity. His discography, which already boasts two EPs and a slew of charting singles, serves as a mirror to society. He specializes in weaving infectious rhythms with lyrics that cut deep into personal experiences and the daily societal bustle. This dedication to his craft has earned him recognition on DSP charts and placements on international editorial playlists, proving that his sound resonates far beyond his immediate community. What truly sets him apart, however, is the holistic "SBB experience." He is celebrated for an electrifying stage presence that transforms every performance into a memorable event, coupled with a penchant for out-of-the-box lyricism and innovative production that consistently defies standard genre constraints. This versatility is currently on full display through his two latest releases, which highlight the duality of his sound. His newest anthem, "Hustler," featuring Hollerdotun, captures the gritty essence of ambition. The track serves as a soundtrack for the relentless go-getters, a theme visually underscored by its striking cover art featuring a stack of cash balanced precariously on the head—a metaphor for the heavy lifting required in the pursuit of success. It is a raw, energetic offering that speaks directly to the reality of the street hustle and the determination required to thrive. On the other end of the spectrum is the double-release "Impatient/Garage Refix," which dropped on November 20th. Including the tracks "Impatient" and "Impatient II," this project showcases a more introspective and experimental side of the artist. The visual direction suggests a moody, emotive narrative, while the "Garage Refix" inclusion hints at a fusion of his signature flow with fast-paced, electronic-influenced percussion. By seamlessly navigating between the hard-hitting bars of "Hustler" and the experimental textures of "Impatient," Kblacktheblack proves he is a musical shapeshifter, positioning himself as a pivotal figure who is not just participating in the culture, but actively defining its future. Would you like me to create a short press release to send to blogs based on this article?
The New Music Friday Top Picks #43
The New Music Friday Top Picks #43
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