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Apple Music spotlights Africa’s foremost creators with their Songbook & Behind The Boards playlists

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With the eyes and ears of the world currently upon Africa and the musical forces emerging from all over the continent, Apple Music is spotlighting the creators who work behind the scenes, the continent’s finest songwriters and the producers who play a vital role in taking genres like Afrobeats, Amapiano, House and Afro-Pop to the world.

Apple Music’s Songbook & Behind The Board playlists take a peak behind the curtain at the musical inspirations of the men and women who pour their blood, sweat and tears into crafting some of Africa’s biggest hits.

The Songbook playlists include: Afro-folk singer-songwriter Msaki (who features on some of SA’s biggest house music tracks), Nigerian multi-platinum award-winning producer Kiddominant (who has written and produced for Davido, Wizkid, Cardi B, Beyoncé amongst others) and Nigerian producer Krizbeatz (who produced Tekno’s smash hit first single “Pana”).

Similarly, Behind The Boards is a smorgasbord of talent across all genres – from Afrobeats to hip-hop to neo-soul, and features the likes of Del B, Don Jazzy, Ruff and Tweezy.

“As a kid, I started making beats in my room in Nigeria,” Kiddominant tells Apple Music. “I was constantly daydreaming about touring the world and making music for a mass audience, watching Timbaland, Kanye, Dr. Dre, and many others. Moving to The States, I’ve worked day and night doing what I can to make Afrobeats a global sound, as the first Nigerian producer to be certified Gold in the U.S., thus opening more doors.”

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Behind The Board’s full selection includes playlists from Kiddominant, Kel P, TMXO, JR, Ganja Beatz, Gemini Major, Killbeatz M.O.G Beatz, Del B, Peruzzi, Tweezy, Nduduzo Makhathini, Wasafi Records, Eternal Africa, Lunatik, Alie Kyez, Simba Tagz, Noble, Mr. Kamera, Select Play, Ruff and Juls.

“Even though I make music from Lagos, my sound is global. I want a kid in Tokyo or Paris to be able to bump to my music and enjoy it.” – Kel P

“Making music is a freeing experience for me. If my listeners can feel that and enjoy the music, then my work is done.” – TMXO

“Throughout my career, writing music has always been my way of connecting the world to Africa, and not the other way around. This hopefully carries on beyond when the music stops.” – JR

“Our work basically speaks for itself in terms of diversity and showing our range as producers but we hate being boxed as just hip hop producers and we want the world to know we make a bit of everything.” – Ganja Beatz

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“I’ve been blessed and fortunate to work with some of the most talented and amazing artists in South Africa. To be part of movements, moments and history through music is priceless. One of my strengths in production is my drums. Whether it’s Afrobeats or Afrosoul, trap or trap-soul, my drums hit hard.” – Gemini Major

You already know the faces and voices that have popularised your favourite tracks, now discover the gifted producers and songwriters behind the music.

Listen to the Songbook & Behind The Boards playlists

Kiddominant –  http://apple.co/Kiddominant

Killbeatz –  http://apple.co/Killbeatz

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Krizbeatz –  http://apple.co/Krizbeatz

Del B – http://apple.co/DelB

Ganja Beatz – http://apple.co/GanjaBeatz

Tweezy – http://apple.co/Tweezy

Gemini Major – http://apple.co/geminimajor

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Alie-Keyz – http://apple.co/Alie-Keyz

Sarz – http://apple.co/Sarz

Don Jazzy – http://apple.co/DonJazzy

 

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Rising Ghanaian Afro-Fusion Singer, Mega EJ releases new song, “Taya”

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With current struggles arising in communities and the wave of drug influence hitting the youth, “Taya” is a statement for all who are against vile activities by corrupt leaders which has impacted on their citizens negatively.

Born Johnson Elike Kondobrey, Mega EJ, a Ghanaian Afro-fusion Singer and Songwriter has teamed up with Germany-based Producers, pappuy and Favela to register his discomfort about the wary economic situation in his home region, Ghana on a new song titled, “Taya”, released under Yaadie Supply.
Listen to “Taya” by Mega EJ on Boomplay;

Experimenting with sound and fusing genres curated by Pappuy; a Germany based producer, and mixed and mastered by Favela, and Bass Guitar by Nee Mantse, “Taya” depicts a story of beautiful town which is be stained by the activities of incompetent and corrupt leaders. Also, forecasting the repercussions of their activities, Mega EJ warns of possible instability if the youth are awakened and demand accountability from these corrupt leaders.

Again, Mega EJ invites you to embrace a sound that breaks free from conventions and celebrates the power of musical exploration. This song is not just a track; it’s a testament to Mega EJ’s commitment to pushing the limits and leaving an indelible mark on the ever-evolving music scene.
Listen to “Taya” by Mega EJ here; (https://linktr.ee/MegaEJ)

ABOUT MEGA EJ

In the early days, he recalls skipping classes and driving to Hohoe, a town in the Volta Region of Ghana, for his first recording. From pursuing his dreams to earning over organic 50k plays in the US in the past year over his favorite song Feel Am for Body, Mega EJ clearly has the road ahead of him spotted with stardom and greatness.

He believes his music serves a bigger purpose of impacting lives. Mega EJ is never afraid to delve into his spirituality, and draw inspiration from the world around him, tapping into the sounds of Reggae, Jazz, Rap, and other diverse genres. Out of his loved genres, his musical influences are Chronixx of Jamaica, Worlasi of Ghana, and Burna Boy of Nigeria, hoping to perform with them on world stages someday.
Mega EJ released his first single on all digital distribution platforms in 2018 and since then has released personal EPs, a collab EP, and a charting album in 2021. His most recent EP, Amber, with four songs, exudes a feeling of softness and peace toward the listener to be appreciated.

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The future of Mega EJ is written in the stars. In a couple of years, it will be no surprise to see him headlining arenas worldwide with superstar exposure. As an artist who is constantly on a reflective journey, advice he would give to his younger self is that there is never a reason to panic. Everything passes – advice passed down to him that he holds dearly in his daily walk of life.

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Litovibes unveils highly anticipated music video for hit single ‘Gimme Love’

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Litovibes, the dynamic and emerging force in the music industry, has delighted fans once again with the release of the captivating music video for his single, ‘Gimme Love.’ The video serves as the perfect complement to the soulful mid-tempo love anthem that has already captured hearts nationwide. Stream ‘Gimme Love’ here: https://onerpm.link/GIMME-LOVE

Following the successful audio release of ‘Gimme Love’ in November last year, Litovibes continues to showcase his unique musical prowess with this visually stunning interpretation of the song.

‘Gimme Love’ explores the intricacies of love in its purest form, inviting listeners to embark on a journey of emotions. The music video amplifies this narrative, offering a visual representation of the song’s heartfelt lyrics and enchanting melody.

With the release of the ‘Gimme Love’ music video, Litovibes once again demonstrates his versatility as an artist and his commitment to creating music that resonates with audiences on a profound level. As anticipation builds for his debut EP, Litovibes continues to solidify his reputation as a rising star in the music scene.

ABOUT LITOVIBES:

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Litovibes is an emerging artist known for his distinctive blend of soulful melodies and evocative lyrics. With a growing fan base, Litovibes continues to make waves in the music industry. Keep an eye out for his highly anticipated debut EP, coming soon.


Fans can connect with Litovibes on social media to stay updated on upcoming releases and performances:

Instagram: @litovibes
Twitter: @lito_vibes
Facebook: Litovibes

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Listen Up: Embrace God’s Love with Universal Rap Group’s Message of ‘Grace’

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Grace

Universal Rap Group features YungRukki and Sablar on this song to recognize and appreciate the immense love of God shown to us through Grace. (more…)

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Fameye teams up with Nigerian singer Patoranking on ‘Sober (Soo Bad)’

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Sober Art

Ghanaian singer, songwriter and performer Fameye and Nigerian sensation Patoranking have joined forces to deliver an anthem! (more…)

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BAABA J RETURNS WITH A RICHLY SMOOTH SINGLE, “SUNSHINE”, TO REMIND US OF THE BEAUTY OF LIFE GOING ON, AND THE PEACE IT BRINGS

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Baaba J’s ‘Ole’ Proves that Vulnerability is Beautiful

Following on from her most recent body of work “Okay Baby, Letʼs Do This”, Ghanaian based singer and songwriter Baaba J finally reveals her first single of 2024, “Sunshine”. Aer teasing fans and listeners with news of the upcoming single, Baaba J is now ready to share her music with the world, and it has been worth the wait. Working with Grammy nominated producer, GuiltyBeatz, on the production of the track, the multifaceted emerging star is excited to release her single today – Friday 22nd March – as she eases us into a new year ahead filled with fresh new music.

Drawn in with strong guitar licks, Baaba J laces her distinctly addictive voice over melodic tones and irresistible rhythmic peaks, led by drum patterns; “Sunshine” is a heartwarming track that will truly cement her captivating presence across the Afro inde and alternative scene. Wrapping together a unique blend of Soul sounds, contemporary Pop and Afro indie elements, “Sunshine” is a beautiful example of her Art, effortlessly personifying Baaba Jʼs songwriting skills in just under three minutes.

Speaking on the meaning behind the track, Baaba J says, “Sunshine is a song about acceptance. Accepting that, the only constant in life is change. It is a story about two lovers who have reached a point in their lives where they have to go separate ways. One to sunshine, one to rain. Rain and sunshine are used as metaphors in this song to describe the different phases of life these two lovers have to face on their own. Nobody wants to let go of a good thing, so the reality of letting go of a lover is a difficult experience. But in sunshine , we let go peacefully. We wish our past lovers the best of luck and the warmest of love. We accept that love lost leaves room for new love and sometimes although the sun looks good on the other side, what we may need is rain.

Baaba J started writing her own music in high school under the alias BBJ. She sought out local producers whose sound matched the production style in her head and started recording demo songs. Initially, she made music for herself as a way to escape the monotonous nature of life until she later released music because it became “too good to keep to myself.” She describes her music as “message heavy Indie/Alter-native Afro”, and wants to show people they “can be unconventional and still achieve your goals”.

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Drawing inspiration from the likes of Koffee, Asa and Imagine Dragons to name a few, Baabaʼs unique artistry effortlessly creates room for her to weave together smooth Soul, Afro indie and folk sounds, with an alternative twist. Her take on music allows her to embrace her own unique sonic style, a distinctive sound which sets her apart from her peers.

Not only is Baaba a rising star, but she is a respected voice and artist who has been best described as an “exceptional musical talent who has gradually garnered dedicated listeners for her rich vocals”. Currently honing an impressive 11,000+ monthly listeners on Spotify alone, Baaba J noteably continues to authentically grow her fanbase from strength to strength through her plethora of original music.

Jemima Baaba Haywood-Dadzie (professionally known as Baaba J) is a singer, songwriter, and film maker from Tema, Ghana. Growing up with aspirations to excel in her passions, Baaba floated between dreams of being in the army and playing football until she finally landed on music and filmmaking in her teens. As a child, she split her time between Teshie Rasta, Santa Maria and Tema – three distinct Ghanaian suburbs which gave her a unique perspective on society and helped shape the foundations of her world view.

Honing editorial support from key tastemakers and well respected publications including NATIVE Magazine, iMullar, Pan African Music Magazine and plenty more across Africa, Baaba J is ready to take her music globally as she prepares us for a season of new music to dive into. Aside from the editorial support pouring in, she is catching the attention she deserves with notable co-signs from DSP powerhouse Spotify where she has been championed as Spotify EQUAL Africa artist for April, while also being spotlighted in their New Music Friday and Afro Indie playlist selects. Baaba J continues to keep listeners gripped and excited to hear more with every new release, making her one to watch on her road to stardom. Keep your ears to the ground as weʼre so excited to reveal a lot more to come over the year.

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Zulubwoy Drops A New Song “Oh Yeah”

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With his latest single “Oh Yeah,” young, rapidly-rising, multi-talented trap Dancehall singer and songwriter Daniel Seidu-also known as Zulubwoy in the entertainment industry—is poised to wow
fans.
Growing up in Nima, Zulubwoy is renowned for his passionate performances and hard-core lyrical calm. What sets him apart is his ability to transition between different genres.

Listen today

https://www.boomplay.com/songs/156685741?srModel=WHATSAPP&srList=WEB

https://open.spotify.com/album/2g4Ts1e3nY38vRdfmh2whE

Zulubwoy’s song “Oh Yeah” is a major step forward in his career and demonstrates his versatility and artistic ability.

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