Ghanaian star actress, Jackie Appiah has been spotted hanging out with British Royals, Prince Harry and Meghan Markle in Lagos . (more…)

Today, GRAMMY® Award-nominated global superstar Ice Spice returns with “Gimmie A Light” — the first official single from her forthcoming debut album Y2K. Set for release via 10K Projects/Capitol Records, the massively anticipated Y2K is due out later this year. Go here to stream/download “Gimmie A Light,” and check out the video here.

Produced by Ice Spice’s longtime collaborator RiotUSA — who also handled production on career-defining hits like her gold-certified breakout single “Munch (Feelin U)” — “Gimmie A Light” centers on a sample from dancehall legend Sean Paul’s 2002 single “Gimme the Light.” With all the effortless star power that made her an icon soon after emerging from New York drill scene, the Bronx Baddie unleashes a two-minute anthem spotlighting her whip-smart bars, rapid-fire delivery, and potent vocal command. Slick and self-possessed, the result is a high-energy track stacked with bouncy beats and irresistible hooks.

For the video to “Gimmie A Light,” Ice Spice once again joined forces with fellow New York City natives George and Frederick Buford, aka The Evil Twins — the fast-rising filmmaking duo behind the visuals for past hits like “Deli” and “Boy’s a liar Pt. 2” (her platinum-certified, chart-topping 2023 collaboration with PinkPantheress). Equal parts fantasy and hyperreality, “Gimmie A Light” places Ice Spice in a dizzying sequence of high-glamour scenarios: sipping Patrón El Alto on the dancefloor with a shiny piece of bling bearing her own likeness; posing with fat stacks of cash in her J’adore Dior baby tee; twerking in the back of a hot-pink Range Rover, surrounded by stuffed animals as the smoke-filled SUV speeds through the streets of her hometown.

Last month at Coachella, Ice Spice thrilled the crowd with a sneak-peak performance of “Gimmie A Light.” Her debut at the famed festival instantly drew raves from the likes of UPROXX, who proclaimed that Ice Spice “will almost certainly headline Coachella in the near future if her trajectory continues.”

Due out later this year, Y2K has been hailed as one of the most highly anticipated albums of 2024. With its title nodding to her birthday (January 1, 2000), Ice Spice’s full-length debut will also include her recent smash single “Think U The Shit (Fart).” The album arrives on the heels of her widely acclaimed debut EP Like..? — a 2023 release that landed on best-of-the-year lists from Pitchfork, Rolling Stone, The New York Times, and more and featured hits like “Munch (Feelin U)” and the platinum-selling “In Ha Mood” and “Princess Diana.”

Xavy, the rising star in the music industry, is set to captivate audiences once again with the release of his much-awaited EP, “Waiting for the World.” The EP, which features a mesmerizing blend of soulful melodies, poignant lyrics, and captivating rhythms, is poised to make a significant impact on the music scene.

With “Waiting for the World,” Xavy invites listeners on a journey through emotions, experiences, and reflections on the world around us. Each track is a carefully crafted masterpiece, showcasing Xavy’s unparalleled talent as both a songwriter and a performer. The EP offers something for every music enthusiast.

Xavy’s unique ability to infuse raw emotion into his music sets him apart as a true artist. His soul-stirring vocals combined with intricate instrumentals create a sonic experience that is both immersive and unforgettable. “Waiting for the World” is a testament to Xavy’s dedication to his craft and his unwavering commitment to authenticity.

“I am thrilled to finally share ‘Waiting for the World’ with the world,” says Xavy. “This EP is deeply personal to me, and I poured my heart and soul into every song. I hope that listeners will connect with the music and find comfort, inspiration, and joy in these tracks.”

“Waiting for the World” is available on all major streaming platforms

https://songwhip.com/xavy3/waiting-for-the-world

The Nigerian star’s first song in a while will leave you pumped and ready to take over the world! Crank up your volume and listen as he weaves a tale of struggle into a universal anthem of hope and confidence. Stream or download ‘Mile 2’ across all major digital platforms here: https://chinaz.fanlink.tv/Mile2

Chinaz is back and like it is said, the comeback is always better than the setback! After going MIA following the release of his debut EP, “King David,” in 2022, he returns from the dungeons with more than just ammunition. He shares a winsome track bursting with a force: the hope to overcome tomorrow and it has our absolute attention.

‘Mile 2’ is like that friend who reminds you to keep your head up, no matter the situation. It addresses the struggles faced by the everyday people of Mile 2–a suburb in Nigeria–through the lens of Chinaz. This sunny, hope-filled anthem features a striking blend of dynamic Afrobeats, making Chinaz’s versatile voice and lyrics stick like never before.

About lyrics, Chinaz has a couple that audiences can resonate with and find strength in: “Plenty plenty times I suffer. Plenty plenty times for dogba/As I dey try to do my best oh. Plenty plenty no believe am/Gradually, Oluwa lo sho mi. Na ah/Spiritually, Oluwa lo sho mi. Na ah/Mentally, Oluwa lo sho mi. Na ah/Financially, Oluwa lo sho mi. Na ah.”

After two years off the grid, Chinaz is back to excite even the most passive fans with a jolt of good music. He is poised to sweep the industry with an inferno of hits following his short break and ‘Mile 2’ is the first to put his name back on the lips of music fans.

OR

Instagram: iamchinaz
Twitter/X: @iamchinaz

Vudumane has a score to settle with naysayers on his latest release, ‘Jungle.’ This bold, unapologetic track is a big gotcha moment for critics of the now-famous artist who first tasted success in 2005. Stream or download ‘Jungle’ across all major digital platforms here: https://ffm.to/vudumane_jungle

If you’re an Afrobeats aficionado, the lively rhythms of ‘Jungle’ will get you in your element. Vudumane makes a beautiful case for perseverance, stirring up an infectious anthem for anyone told they cannot achieve greatness and producer, Khalifa ensures his victory roar feels like something out of a blockbuster movie.

Vudumane’s lyrics will leave you intrigued. They serve as a poignant reminder of the power of self-belief. Lines like, “Don’t worry. Vudu, time will tell. Don’t worry/Nobody. Matter don cast, I see nobody,” are not just catchy but cathartic. They resonate with audiences, turning their struggles into triumph as they vibe with the man of the hour.

“Throughout my life, I have been underestimated by others who did not expect me to succeed because of my unconventional lifestyle and innovative approach to music. Now that I have proved myself, it is time to officially address such people and let them know how wrong they were,” says Vudumane.

‘Jungle’ is a sound reminder to rise to the occasion and prove your doubters wrong.

With music dating back to the mid-2000s and collaborations bearing the names of Davido, Zlatan, Selasi and Kwabena Kwabena, Vudumane is as grand as his résumé suggests. Formerly known as Nyankonton, the Ghanaian-Nigerian star’s seamless fusion of styles has seen him capture audiences in the American and European music scene through vibrant sounds that honor his tradition. Whether Afrobeats or Amapiano, Vudumane’s breathtaking songs continue to push the envelope of each genre. This innovative approach has earned the ‘Odo Wuo’ breakout star a reputation on the world stage as a champion of cultural exchange through unity and self-discovery.

OR

For more information about Vudumane and his music, go to:

Twitter: @vudumane
Instagram: vudumane
Facebook: Vudumane

Spotify’s RADAR program is dedicated to bringing rising talent to the forefront globally, showcasing what is next in sound, and lifting artists by helping them expand their global reach on their path to superstardom.

The past few years have been a clear testament to the growth of African music globally, and this year, Spotify’s RADAR Africa program is shining a spotlight on the continent’s rising stars. Joining the ranks of previous RADAR Alumni such as Ayra Starr, Victony, BNXN, and Bloody Civilian from Nigeria, Shallipopi is the latest addition to the RADAR Africa list. Hailing from Eswatini,  Manana who is South-African based follows in the footsteps of luminaries like Tyla and DBN Gogo, representing his nation’s thriving music scene.

Ugandan artist Joshua Baraka’s inclusion underscores the program’s commitment to showcasing the diverse talents that make the African continent proud through their art, following in the footsteps of fellow East African RADAR Alumni Xenia Manasseh from Kenya, with both representing the region.

Phiona Okumu, Spotify’s Head of Music, Sub-Saharan Africa says “This cohort represents some of the continent’s most promising artists. As African artists continue to rise globally, Spotify is excited to continue playing its part in the rise and discovery of local artists, showcasing their diverse talents to the world.”

Shallipopi, popularly called “Presido De La Pluto” by his fans, gained popularity through viral freestyles, offering a fresh perspective on street culture and influencing street lingo through his music. Hailing from the culturally rich Benin City in Edo State, Nigeria, Shallipopi proudly showcases his roots on tracks like “Obapluto,” one of his top five most-listened to songs on Spotify, following “Ex Convict“. His track “Cast” holds the top spot as his most-streamed song, while his album “Shakespopi,” which has amassed over 13 million streams since its release, further highlights how he adeptly fuses tradition with modernity, and seamlessly blends his cultural heritage with contemporary elements.

Shallipopi’s reach continues to grow, with over 1.9 million additions to playlists in the last 12 months and a global audience led by Nigeria, the United States, the United Kingdom, Ghana, and South Africa over the last 28 days. The street-loved artist is embraced by Gen Z’s with 52% of his listeners aged 18-27 and millennials with 19% at 28-34. He also commands a larger male following at 66% compared to female following at 31% over the last 28 days.

Ugandan artist Joshua Baraka burst onto the scene with his soulful 2020 debut “Tomorrow,” captivating listeners across Africa and globally, and amassing a fervent following. Nigeria stands as the top country streaming his music the most on Spotify over the last 28 days, a testament to the viral success of his hit “NANA“, also his most-streamed song. Nana remix featuring African superstars Joeboy , King Promise and Bien further solidifies his popularity, ranking among Baraka’s top three most-listened tracks, trailing closely behind his other smash hit “Dalilah.”

While Nigeria leads the charge, Baraka’s cross-cultural resonance is evident as Kenya, the United States, the United Kingdom, and his native country Uganda follow among his top five streaming countries, underscoring the singer’s ability to craft melodies that resonate with diverse audiences worldwide. His core Spotify audience over the last 28 days spans Gen Z and millennials, with 53% aged 18-27 and 25% aged 28-34, while his male listenership at 59% outpaces females at 38%, further highlighting his capacity to captivate audiences across genders. With over 195k playlist adds on Spotify in the last 12 months, his ever-growing fanbase is a true showcase to the power of cross-cultural relevance and the boundless possibilities of artistic collaboration.

Hailing from eSwatini, Manana is a multi-talented singer, producer, and Grammy-winning songwriter renowned for his lush melodies and jazzy R&B production. His soulful performances and masterful songwriting prowess, include credits with Burna Boy, Jon Vinyl, Sauti Sol, and the legendary Usher, which helped catapult him to prominence.

Manana’s global appeal is evident as South Africa, the United States, Nigeria, Kenya, and the United Kingdom emerge as the top five countries streaming his music over the last 28 days. He has garnered over 144k playlist adds in the past 12 months and with an audience comprising 50% male listeners and 43% female listeners.  His music resonates strongly with the younger demographic aged 18-27 making up 58% of his total streams and 23% aged 28-34, over the last 28 days. Additionally, one of his most streamed tracks on Spotify “Distance – Acoustic” features his exceptional songwriting talent.

We had a sit down with Shallipopi, Manana and Joshua Baraka to delve deeper into their music and creative journey.

SHALLIPOPI

How would you describe your musical style and what are some of the influences that have shaped your sound?

My music is experimental music or what I call Afro-talk. It’s just my own type of sound.

How does it feel to be one of this year’s Spotify RADAR artists?

It feels great. It’s an opportunity for more people to meet me at the front. This is just the beginning.

Artists often face unique challenges. What has surprised you most about the music industry so far?  What are some of the biggest lessons you’ve learned on your musical journey?

Nothing surprises me about the music game – I’m enjoying it. The big lesson is not to give up. Just do what you’re doing and listen to the people close to you.

Looking ahead, what are you most excited about in your musical journey?

 I’m excited about everything because this is my dream. Doing music back to back, I’ve been doing music since I was a child so everything about it is exciting.

MANANA

How would you describe your musical style and what are some of the influences that have shaped your sound?

I would say I make alternative RnB, with a singer-songwriter twist. My influences are a combination of training from my upbringing, harmonies from choir school, chord progressions from jazz studies and then the rest is from hearing RnB and neo-soul music from my brother’s CD collection

How does it feel to be one of this year’s Spotify RADAR artists?

Feels good. It’s a privilege, I’m very grateful. It is reassuring and encouraging to see that the work we’re putting in is appreciated.

Artists often face unique challenges. What has surprised you most about the music industry so far?  What are some of the biggest lessons you’ve learned on your musical journey?

I don’t think I’ve had any surprises. But I think the struggle I had to deal with is comparison. I think social media has given us access to parts of the world that previously weren’t easily accessible, but has also exposed us to this feeling of inadequacy that maybe isn’t warranted. I think focusing on what I’m doing and not trying to make music that would be viral or “challenge friendly” has been my biggest lesson.

Looking ahead, what are you most excited about in your musical journey?

Growth. Every year I start with that being my goal. I’m not sure what that looks like exactly but I know consistent growth has no limit. So that’s the hope for the future.

JOSHUA BARAKA

How would you describe your musical style and what are some of the influences that have shaped your sound?

I’d describe my musical style as an interpretation of what I feel at the time I’m making that particular piece of music. Basically, my music is who I am so I’d describe my music as another version of me. I’ve been influenced by a lot of gospel musicians because I grew up in a staunch Christian family. As I grew up and got access to more genres of music, I became obsessed with Bob Marley, Chronixx, jazz music in general and every RnB artist I could find.

I’ve also been influenced by Ugandan artists like Radio from the duo Radio and Weasel, Maurice Kirya and Elly Wamala.

How does it feel to be one of this year’s Spotify RADAR artists?

It feels really good to be chosen to be a part of this year’s RADAR artists. I feel like a part of something bigger than myself. It’s a step in the right direction and vision which is to shine light on Uganda and East Africa in general.

Artists often face unique challenges. What has surprised you most about the music industry so far?  What are some of the biggest lessons you’ve learned on your musical journey?

What surprised me the most about the music industry is how different it is from whatever you see on Tv and the internet.It’s not as smooth and easy as it’s made to appear. My biggest lesson so far is that you need to show up regardless of how you feel and do what you need to do.That is the price for growth.

Looking ahead, what are you most excited about in your musical journey?

I’m excited for the day Uganda is recognized on the music scene globally because we have a lot of talents, tujja tujja. For myself, I’m excited to share all the new music I have been working on and some serious work coming up. I’m excited for where all this journey is headed

Check out Shallipoppi’s ASAP and Cast, Manana’s Hold me Tight and Sunday Morning,  as well as Joshua Baraka’s Dalilah and Nana Remix on RADAR Africa.  Assets to go along with your story are attached.  Let me know if you have any questions or are interested in covering!