From a blend of Afro-R&B to a track reminiscent of the iconic ‘Danfo Drivers’ music, these are the songs that have made it onto this week’s New Music Friday Top Picks List:
Wizard Chan, Odumodublvck – Flako:
When Port Harcourt bred singer-songwriter Wizard Chan and contemporary Hip-hop rapper teamed up, little did we know we would be deeply immersed in nostalgia. On Wizard Chan’s first single of the year, Flako featuring Odumodublvck, the duo takes us back to the prime era of galala tune, where the iconic duo Mad Melon and Mountain Black made the hit song, Danfo Drivers.
On this Afro-reggae track produced by Mr. Soul, Wizard Chan emerges with soulful melodies wrapped with introspective lyrics while Odumodublvck intercepts with his signature energetic and unfiltered rap verse, accompanied by melodies reminiscent of the ‘Danfo Drivers.’ While the track rests on themes of bravado and cana, it centers around reflection, resilience, and streetwise energy, blending a mellow yet fierce vibe. This delivery will resonate with hardcore listeners of the duo while captivating fans of old lovers of the Mad Melon and Mountain Black era.
ru., Magixx – i think i love you 2:
Sequel to her debut single, i think i love you released in 2024 and produced by Johnny Drille, emerging singer-songwriter ru. releases her second single, i think i love you 2 featuring Mavin superstar Magixx. On the love-themed track, ru. comes with a response to her previously released single, teaming up with Magixx to deliver a blend of Afrobeats and R&B.
The song dances around a conversation between the duo where they both reveal their innate affection for each other after lingering efforts to unveil their desires. But love conquers all, they say. And so, ru.’s lush vocals are strongly complemented by the All Over crooner’s melodic verses. Magixx is no newcomer when it comes to yearning for love, and he brilliantly delivers on this song while they share a commendable harmony.
Ruger – Toro (A COLORS SHOW):
Afrobeats and dancehall sensation Ruger is back with another single for the year, Toro. Ahead of his forthcoming sophomore album on March 28th, BlownBoy RU, the Asiwaju crooner, shares the live performance of his latest single on the Colors Studios. Unlike his previously released single, Toro is an apology track produced by long-term collaborator Kukbeatz, where Ruger reminisces about the loss of his lover and how he caused their separation. In a social media post, Ruger revealed the song was written after he fumbled a genuine relationship. The song linked to his muse’s name, Toriola, shows Ruger delivering mellow melodies and catchy lyrics in the chorus. This is another brilliant performance from a Nigerian artiste off the Colors Show.
BhadBoi OML, Gimba – 247:
Following his Bhad Boi EP released in January, Street-hop sensation BhadBoi OML returns with a new single, 247. He calls for singer-songwriter Gimba on the laid-back production of this latest track. While the track opens with an Arabian call, it effortlessly blends Afro-adura with elements of Jazz, where BhadBoi OML delivers street-laced lyricism alongside Gimba’s introspective melodic verses. The duo’s matching synergy is displayed brilliantly as they draw hustle, hope, and spirituality themes. Gimba reflects on the days of hard work as BhadBoi OML takes a nod to the three major religions. As fans await the deluxe version of Bhad Boi EP, 247 will resonate deeply with fans, especially with the song’s infectious hook.
Davido – Be There Still:
Afrobeats superstar Davido, aka 001, is ready for the Nigerian music industry as he shares his first single for 2025, Be There Still, ahead of his upcoming album, 5ive. On the 26th of February, the serial hit-maker released the snippet for the latest single, which captured several fun moments with the beat signaling Amapiano elements. It seems Davido is still riding on the Amapiano wave as he did with his December anthem, Awuke. This makes the latest release interesting as he calls on South African Producer DJ Maphorisa, Marvey Muzique, and Black Culture.
The groovy track sees Davido deliver lamba and playful lyrics on the infectious beats. The upbeat track draws its title from the chorus: Anywhere money dey, make dem call me, I’ll be there still… While the song manages to highlight his igneous artistry, one thing is certain: Davido knows how to make a feel-good song. And Be There Still is one of them.
Enjoy our new music Friday top picks and more on our weekly new music playlist, carefully curated for your listening pleasure:
