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Blxckie joins Nadeska to discuss his latest album, B4now

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Blxckie joins Nadeska to discuss his latest album, B4now. The Africa Rising cover star talks about his musical community in South Africa, the reaction to his debut album, his musical influences, and how he stays close with his fanbase.

Key quotes below. Video to follow. If you’re able to use, please credit to Nadeska on Apple Music 1apple.co/_NadeskaAlexis

On going from poetry to rap:
”I wasn’t really into rap in- in high school. I was more into like deep house and stuff like that, so rap came as a product of just me like, reciting the poetry and just like, figuring out how to express myself like, like orally in terms of, you know, the written pieces. You know? And then just gaining that confidence to-to be within like, the rap culture and stuff like that.”

On how it has been since his debut album premiered:
“It’s been, it’s been really crazy. I’ve only been in Josie for like a little bit under a year now. I didn’t expect like, to- to have an album out at this, at this stage. You know what I mean? ‘Cause I came from where I’m from here to just like, try and figure things out. I just didn’t expect it to be so quick. And then I’ve been working on new music also, uh, while the album’s out and just, yeah, just receiving the love and, and just… it’s been crazy. It’s been a nice experience.”

On his musical influences:
“Rap like, came about very late, but then when I was listening to it, it was more just like, boom bap, like Joey Bada$$, Ab-Soul, Kendrick, that type of thing. So really like, jazzy sort of sound. So I was like, more into like, instruments and just like, the whole melodic side of rap, you know what I mean? So, yeah, Hold was just like, and ode to just, you know, the neo soul era, like, uh, I took the concept from, um, Musiq Soulchild, uh, Halfcrazy, that song.”

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On his musical community:
“So I was, I was more of like a Soundcloud rapper for a bit. Um, so the people that I stayed with when I came to Josie were like the, even now like, they still like run Soundcloud. If you go on Soundcloud in South Africa, it’s just us. It’s just me and my friends that I used to work with. So yeah, like, they were just like, just for the kids, like, we used to drop music like, often. Like, every two days. We used to do a lot of trailers and stuff like that. So, that, that sort of thing like, helped me like, sharpen the skills and like, perfect the craft. And you know, just find ways of like making music trying to sing, you know what I’m saying? Playing with the auto tune a bit, also just producing a bit. Yeah, that like, that whole space, that whole creative space in the whole lockdown just helped us to become more creative within the music making process.”

On how majoring in Psychology has helped his career:
“The most important thing was just like, self, you know, recognition, and- and just like, owning like, you-your space. It came hand-in-hand with hip-hop and stuff like that. Because hip-hop like, taught me to like, you know, just be confident in yourself. Like, be confident with your heritage, your culture, and stuff like that. And then when I got into psychology, it just, it just affirmed that some more. It just like, it just like made me, yeah just more confident within everything and just when I would uh, transfer it into music, it’s just like, yeah, now this is over. It’s like, I’m taking over this whole thing and stuff”

On the importance of staying close with his fanbase:
“When I was in Durban, like that was, that was the only thing that-that- that helped us, because I was in a group of like, uh, how many, there was like 10 of us and we were all like, rappers and producers and stuff like that, and we had like a WhatsApp group, um, with just like fans and stuff like that. We used to give them music and updates about what we’re doing and all that. And we found that, like, that little community would just like, spread out, and by the time we get on stage or by the time we’re in the streets and stuff, people already know. But then it wasn’t important for like, someone that’s like, in, like a promoter or like an event organizer to know us if the kids know us already, you know what I mean? Like, it was going to flare out eventually into- into those sorts of spaces and, and into the brands or whatever.”

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UNCLE WAFFLES RELEASES NEW SINGLE “WADIBUSA”

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UNCLE WAFFLES RELEASES NEW SINGLE “WADIBUSA”

Today, multi-platinum international DJ-producer Uncle Waffles released her first single of 2024, “Wadibusa.” In this new song featuring Royal MusiQ, Ohp Sage, PCEE, and Djy Biza, Waffles returns with the iconic upbeat dance rhythms that propelled her into stardom.

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Hailed as the “Princess of Amapiano,” Uncle Waffles is back with the ultimate summertime banger as Amapaino continues its meteoric rise within the music scene. Following the weekly cadence of teasers Waffles began to deliver across her social media platforms, fans anxiously awaited the official release of the single, yearning to finally indulge in the full track.

The song begins with a steady tempo of traditional Amapiano sounds as vocals seamlessly blend in over Waffles’ euphoric and buoyant production. Her iconic tribal beats culminate in a melody of drums, cymbals, distant sounds of alarms, and swift reverbs.

World-renowned DJ-producer Uncle Waffles is taking over the music scene by bringing the South African Amapiano genre to the forefront. Often referred to as the “Princess of Amapiano,” Uncle Waffles has been making her rounds with international tours/performances and most recently performed at Coachella and Cannes this year. Despite being only 24-years-old, Waffles has solidified her position in the industry in a way that hasn’t been done before. Last year, she was nominated for a BET AWARD, nominated for a Headies Award, honored as the first Amapiano artist to perform at Coachella 2023, garnered nearly 2.4M followers on Instagram and over 2M followers on TikTok, and has amassed over 100K+ subscribers on YouTube. Since the beginning of her musical journey, she’s garnered major cosigns from top artists including Drake, Beyonce, Ciara, and more.

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LaaMi: A Vocal Powerhouse Making Waves

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Born Rauhel Halidu Yakubu, LaaMi emerges as a notable Ghanaian singer, renowned for her commanding voice, exceptional vocal range, and unwavering passion for catalyzing positive change.

Her musical odyssey began on the grand stages of some of Ghana and Nigeria’s premier reality shows, including Stars of the Future 5, TV3 Mentor 6, and MTN PROJECT FAME WEST AFRICA 7.0. Swiftly rising as a distinguished alumna of these competitions, LaaMi has graced events hosted by industry giants like MTN and GTV, alongside captivating audiences at esteemed lounges and weddings nationwide.

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LaaMi’s musical repertoire boasts her latest single, “Izan Bakasaniba,” showcasing her dynamic talent. Collaborating with esteemed Ghanaian artists such as Okyeame Kwame, Iwan, and Blakk Rasta, she continues to elevate her craft and inspire audiences far and wide.

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Beyond her musical prowess, LaaMi’s multifaceted abilities encompass crafting, culinary arts, content development, and beyond. With a fervent dedication to effecting change, particularly among the youth, she harnesses her music and diverse skills as potent instruments for societal transformation.

Her melodies not only captivate but also convey poignant messages that resonate with individuals from diverse backgrounds, making her a beacon of inspiration in the Ghanaian music scene.

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Wrench Kidd Enlists Gaffi for His New Single “Going Up”

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Wrench Kidd Enlists Gaffi for His New Single "Going Up"

Hailing from Umtata,Eastern Cape, Wrench Kidd emerged as a dynamic force in both music and fashion. Born on December 17, 2004, his creative journey began to flourish in 2019 when he delved into the realm of music. After honing his craft, he seized the stage at various talent shows in his hometown of Tsolo, culminating in a standout performance in January 2021.

It was on this auspicious occasion that he unveiled his inaugural body of work, the “Escape Puzzle of Fear” EP, crafted alongside collaborator Yung Potion. This debut release not only garnered local acclaim but also caught the attention of international figures such as Kiki X Chucky, Thxbi, Tru Crack, Logical Rhythms, and Lil Ivy, who praised his distinctive sound and vision.

In addition to his artistic endeavors, Wrench Kidd achieved a significant milestone by completing his Matric in the same year, underscoring his commitment to both his education and his passion for creativity. With his multifaceted talents and unwavering dedication, Wrench Kidd continues to captivate audiences and leave an indelible mark on the global cultural landscape.

Recently, Wrench Kidd teamed up with the hard-hitting Eastern Cape rapper Gaffi to drop his latest single, “Goin Up.” This track serves as a testament to his relentless ambition and drive to thrive in the music industry. Through compelling lyrics and infectious beats, “Goin Up” captures Wrench Kidd’s determination to ascend to new heights and make his mark on the musical landscape. With this powerful collaboration, Wrench Kidd continues to push boundaries and solidify his position as an emerging force in the industry.

Stream Wrench Kidd – Going Up (feat. Gaffi) here

Note to editor 

Social Media 

Facebook – https://www.facebook.com/Wrenchkiddthebully

Instagram – https://www.instagram.com/wrench_kidd/

 

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OT n Aiges Poke upcoming Gh rappers

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OT n Aiges Poke upcoming Gh rappers

Talented Ghanaian upcoming duo have dropped what could be described as a poke at other upcoming rappers in Ghana. Ot n Aiges who have received accolades from industry persons, rap lovers among others after releasing mind blowing and creative pieces like “Ass vrs Breast”, The Goat Debate etc., have releasing “Who’s Rapping”.

The song takes swipe at upcoming rappers who claim to be rappers but do what is far from the rap culture. The duo displayed a high level of lyrical dexterity on the song asking their fellow upcoming act ‘Who’s Rapping”?

The even went ahead to mention few cities they they feel rap has been dormant in, after other pioneers leaving the rap scene.

Stream OT n Aiges – Who’s Rapping via

Youtube – https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8Sj4wu7pyrs

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Other DSPs – https://easternchild.fanlink.tv/WhosRapping

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Caly Grande Releases His First Single of the Year ‘Racks and Paces’

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Caly Grande Releases His First Single of the Year 'Racks and Paces'

Talented Ghanaian musician, Caly Grande has today officially out-doored his newest song, “Racks and Paces.”

The latest single is an infusion of Reggae and Hip-Hop that sees Caly Grande touch on key subjects such as freedom, self-awareness, as well as mental health.

On “Racks and Paces,” Caly Grande with a tone of playfulness and an underlying toughness in his vocals that match both the song’s jumpy rhythm and theme, delivers a superb performance that easily pierces the ears and hearts of listeners.

The 360 musical artiste opens the song with a free flow that sits perfectly on the one-tap Reggae instrumentals and for about a minute chiefly focuses on making the ‘mula’ and a bit of prayer that continues later on the record.

Caly Grande draws parallels between yesteryears and today with a quick flashback of the independence struggle spearheaded by Ghana’s first President, Osagyefo Dr. Kwame Nkrumah. The singer highlights the vast difference in leadership back then and the current state of leadership.

Just like his debut project “Press Play” EP released last year, “Racks and Paces,” is an inspiration, a different vibration that goes against rigid and limiting creative procedures.

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The song, according to Caly Grande, was born after hearing another artiste’s song and was inspired to write his unique version that reflects his own reality.

Shedding more light on the motivation for the new record, Caly Grande told Amplify Ghana in an exclusive interview that; he wishes this record puts a smile on listeners and hopefully frees them.

He offered advice about mental health and urged listeners to pay particular attention to the line “in this life you gotta free your mind and do your most best, free the pressure, no more trauma, in this life you do you.”

“Racks and Paces” was produced by Cliq with mixing and mastering done by Jbyss.

Listen to “Racks and Paces”

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Kold AF is Spotify EQUAL Africa’s Artist Highlight, Rising Artist takes on the spotlight for the month of April

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Kold AF

Spotify’s EQUAL program supports female artists in music, giving them a global platform through playlists, content hubs, and partnerships. Rising Nigerian artist Kold AF, known for exploring diverse sounds, takes the spotlight for Spotify’s EQUAL Africa program this April, following her selection as Spotify’s Fresh Finds artists in 2023.
 

Spotify’s year-round EQUAL program empowers female creators with a global platform for growth. The dedicated EQUAL hub connects listeners in over 180 markets with this pool of talented artists.
 

Monica Kemoli-Savanne, Spotify’s Senior Artist & Label Partnerships Manager, Sub-Saharan Africa says, “At Spotify, empowering women and creating opportunities for them is a true passion. We’re committed to continuing these efforts and showcasing rising artists like Kold AF, who serve as a reminder that dreams are valid. EQUAL Africa is honoured to be a part of sharing these stories.”
 

In 2023 alone, Spotify hosted 15 EQUAL activations and over 14.8 million artist discoveries stemmed from EQUAL playlists, and EQUAL artists received 11,800 editorial playlist adds. This demonstrates the program’s impact and reach.
 

Kold AF, who recently released a 2-pack EP called “no PITY” alongside alternative soul artist Aema, emphasises the importance of staying true to her artistic vision; “People often try to fit me into their preconceived moulds, guided by their prejudices. Yet, as a young woman navigating the labyrinth of the music industry, I refuse to be confined by such limitations. My focus remains unwaveringly fixed on staying true to my artistic vision.”

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“Participating in the EQUAL program is a genuine honour, a testament to Spotify’s commitment to supporting female artists. It also serves as a gentle reminder to me to extend a helping hand to the aspiring women who will follow in my footsteps,“ Kold AF added.
 

We had a sit down with Kold AF to delve deeper into her music and creative journey.
 

What is that one surprising thing your fans might not know about you?

That I like video games. I had a Nintendo DS at some point in my childhood and I was STUCK ON IT. I played a couple of games on my friend’s XBoxes and playstations but I never had a console of my own.

Now I’m getting back into the groove of it and I’m loving every second of this reunion of sorts.

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When did you realise that making music was in your destiny and what is your WHY for pursuing this craft?

I only fully came to the realisation that it was what I was made for in 2019. As a child, I dreamed of being a star, performing in front of millions of people but I was riddled with fear for many years before 2019.

I decided that year that regardless of the intense fear, I would take the first step and keep moving till I see myself on the stages my younger self had been daydreaming about all day with no regrets.
 

Which African songs or artists did you grow up listening to?

I listened to whatever my parents were a fan of at the time. That included icons like Fela Kuti, Lagbaja, Plantashun Boiz, Psquare, Angelique Kidjo, Fally Ipupa, Awilo Longomba, and the stars that came after them like Asa, Wizkid, Burna Boy, Davido, Cynthia Morgan and so on.

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To someone who has never heard your music, how would you describe the sound, tone, and style?

I would describe my sound as a Fusion. It’s electric and full of emotion. A fluid sound that will always infuse beautiful genres. My foundational genres are Dancehall, R&B and and Afropop but I’m as versatile as it gets and I’ll never be afraid to show it any chance I get.  I speak on real and relatable topics and I’m probably the biggest fan of my own music. When you press play on anything I’m on, you can be sure one thing is constant; QUALITY.
 

Any advice for someone dreading following their dreams?

I was literally in their position before 2019 so I can categorically say this; Take the first step. It’s the scariest decision and action but it is the most important one. The ‘what ifs’ and ‘maybes/maybe nots’ don’t matter in the grand scheme of things if you play it safe and never know. Things will come together with time, effort, showing up and consistency.
 

Check out Kold AF’s recently released single “Everyday (I Day Pray)” on the EQUAL Africa playlist.

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