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Listen UP: Patoranking – Abule

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Nigerian afro-dancehall superstar PATORANKING announces his third album, Three, arriving Aug. 28 via his own Amari Musiq imprint and US-based indie powerhouse, EMPIRE. The project’s lead single “Abule” — a celebration of his Lagos neighborhood, Ebute Metta, and of hoods worldwide — premiered today on Beats1 with Ebro, and is out now via all DSPs.

One of contemporary Africa’s most multifaceted artists, PATORANKING is an international reggae star whose dancehall anthems (“Daniella Whine,” “Suh Different”) have resonated from Nigeria to Jamaica. At the same time, his afropop collaborations with Tiwa Savage (“Girlie O”), Wande Coal (“My Woman, My Everything”) and Diamond Platinumz (“Love You Die”) have

made him a continental icon. He’s extended his influence into North America through partnerships with U.S. labels EMPIRE and VP Records, and touring with hip-hop/soul icon Lauryn Hill. All told, his tracks have generated more than 250 million views on YouTube and over 160 million streams across major DSPs.

From “Odo Bra” with Ghanaian highlife star KING PROMISE to “Whine It” with Kenya’s SAUTI SOL, there’s no shortage of musical diversity on Three. The project delivers a heavyweight slice of conscious reggae on “Lion in the Jungle” while the tender “Matter” sees PATORANKING reconnect with TIWA SAVAGE, with whom he previously teamed on breakout track, “Girlie O.”

“Three is a strong number,“ PATORANKING says of the album title’s significance. “It stands for how I see language. In making the album, we tried to look at love, life and happiness. If you are listening to any of the tracks, even if it is a dance track, I want you to feel love.”

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STREAM PATORANKING’S NEW SINGLE, ‘ABULE’

The release of “Abule” will be supported by several digital initiatives, and a music video dropping Aug. 5, all with the theme of representing and protecting your hood.

PATORANKING is encouraging fans to rep their respective hood/area/zanga/zone/endz by creating custom graphics at repyourabule.com, launching today. Site visitors enter the name of their community, and upload or choose an existing background image on the site, which they can then instantly download and/or share to social media with the hashtag #repyourabule.

On July 31, PATORANKING joins TikTok’s #SpiritsUp campaign, an initiative by the video-sharing social media platform to support its recent launch in Africa. At 1pm EST/6pm WAT, he will host a TikTok livestream, including a Q+A and live performance, to launch the #AbuleDanceChallenge, encouraging users to upload videos of themselves dancing to the track. As part of the partnership, TikTok SA is donating funds for communities across Africa in need of Coronavirus relief.

“I’m proud to be from my abule, Ebute Metta, because to have made it coming from there it’s only by God’s grace,” PATORANKING says. ”It’s made me who I am today and it’s part of my story. So I waste no opportunity to let people know about my ghetto. I feel it’s important through this new song to give my fans a chance to celebrate their own abules. And to protect their abules, too. Back in May, my team and I partnered with Ebele & Anyichuks Foundation to go to many ghettos across Lagos to give away masks and relief items. It’s important we stay safe and do our part to protect.”

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In addition to the new project, PATORANKING can also be heard on the new version of Bob Marley’s “One Love” alongside Stephen Marley, Skip Marley and other members of the international music community, with all proceeds going to support Unicef’s Covid-19 relief efforts. He recently created the ALU Patoranking Scholarship, offering 10 fully-paid scholarships for promising students from across Africa to attend the prestigious African Leadership University, and was featured in Forbes Africa’s 30 under 30 class for 2020

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Keeny Ice Unveils Powerful Amapiano Single “Frazz” Featuring Chief One

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Ghanaian musician Keeny Ice is thrilled to announce the highly anticipated release of his latest single, “Frazz.” The energetic Amapiano track features the remarkable talents of Chief One, a nominee for the coveted “New Artiste of the Year” award at the 2023 Ghana Music Awards. Produced by Two Bars, “Frazz” marks Keeny Ice’s first feature of the year, adding to his impressive catalogue of hits. The single is released under the management of ABM GLOBAL and is accompanied by a vibrant music video directed by the talented Dela Finn.

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With “Frazz,” Keeny Ice ventures into the Amapiano genre, infusing his unique style and lyrical prowess into this infectious party anthem. The track showcases Keeny Ice’s versatility as an artiste and his ability to adapt to different musical styles while maintaining his signature sound. Chief One’s guest appearance adds an extra layer of energy and dynamism, making “Frazz” a must-listen for music lovers worldwide.

The accompanying music video for “Frazz” is a visual feast, featuring stunning cinematography, captivating choreography, and a vibrant display of colors. Directed by Dela Finn, the video perfectly complements the energetic and celebratory atmosphere of the song, bringing it to life with its engaging visuals.

In support of the release, Keeny Ice has embarked on a media tour to connect with fans and spread the infectious energy of “Frazz.” Through interviews, performances, and appearances across various media platforms, Keeny Ice aims to create widespread excitement and anticipation for the single, solidifying his position as one of Ghana’s most talented and versatile musicians.

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“I am thrilled to share ‘Frazz’ with the world,” expressed Keeny Ice. “It’s a song that embodies the spirit of celebration and brings people together on the dance floor. I had an amazing time collaborating with Chief One, and I can’t wait for everyone to experience the energy and joy of this track.”

“Frazz” is now available for streaming and download on all major music platforms, including [list of platforms]. The official music video can be enjoyed on

. Fans and music enthusiasts are encouraged to share the song on their social media platforms and spread the infectious vibe of “Frazz” with their friends and followers.

Audiomack – https://audiomack.com/keenyice/song/frazz

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Streaming platform – https://distrokid.com/hyperfollow/keenyice2/frazz-feat-chief-one

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Amaarae Release Highly Anticipated Album “Fountain Baby;” Set To Become First Ghanaian To Perform On NPR Tiny Desk

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Today marks a momentous occasion as the highly anticipated album “Fountain Baby” by the Ghanaian groundbreaking platinum-selling artist Amaarae is officially released through Interscope Records. (more…)

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What’s next? British-Ghanaian-Italian Smile Daviz gets the world grooving to ‘Crypto’

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Smile Daviz

Currently working on his first Afrobeat EP ‘KNOCKING’, British-Ghanaian-Italian Smile Daviz (Smilez), after bouncing back from a two-year short break seeks to blend UK urban, melodies and Afro-fusion to stand out from the rest and make his mark.

‘Crypto’ was released on the 18th of March 2023, this is the first release from Smile’s anticipated EP, which explores afro-fusion, melodies and rhythm. Listen Here

Smilez’s previously link-up with Ghanaian afro beats artists such as Kwesi Arthur, Amerado, Kofi Mole, OV and Enam. Smilez recruited Kelvnboy to enrich and incorporate the style of the afrobeat highlife tone, and he also teamed up with UK rapper Suspect OTB on a bonus track – ‘Cynthia’ for the up-and-coming project.

Smile Daviz who was born on 31st March 1990 in the UK, spent part of his early life in Ghana which influenced his musical style, making him relat- able to a wide range of both African and European listeners.

Growing up Smilez was influenced by Styles P, Shea Davies, Nate Dogg and Tupac including Daddy Lumba from Ghana.

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Smilez spent some time in Ghana during The Year of Return, which re- birthed his love for his roots. Whilst in Motherland, he did team up with a new school generation of artists in Accra and created ‘Oh Lord’ with Amer- ado and Kofi Mole. In 2019 ‘Jungle’ was born with Kwesi Arthur who gave one of his best verses, the video was shot in London.

Released 5 years ago ‘Night Night’, was the track that got Smile out there with the emerging afro-swing genre which led him to a UK collaboration with Afrobeat duo Kwamz & Flava for ‘Say What You Say’, showcasing his empowering resilience, flow, melodies and unique personal style.

When a fan asked ‘why the name Smile Daviz? He explained “After a short spell in Ghana as a teenager, I returned to London and was heavily into Hip-hop which played an early part in my musical develop- ment as a novice, I wouldn’t say I was a bad boy but I did get into trouble quite often. I was always composed under any circumstances and I had the ability to charm people with a ‘Smile’ 24/7 which always got me out of trouble or being punished. The musician I always listened to when going to the studio was Shea Da- vies. The Smile Daviz all-smiley expression together with my love for Shea Daviz landed me the name “Smile Daviz” among my friends.”

Stay tuned, whilst Smile Daviz creates his own lane in the music industry as he builds a series of hits as the ‘Sauce Maker’.

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Apple Music’s Africa Now Radio with Nandi Madida this Friday with Nviiri The Storyteller

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This Week’s Episode Features a Conversation With Nviiri The Storyteller, the 5 Hottest Tracks of the Week, Africa Rising and Nandi Madida’s Favourite Track of the Week!

Tune in to Africa Now Radio with Nandi Madida this Friday, June 9th at 9a Lagos/London / 10a Johannesburg/Paris / 1a LA / 4a NYC on Apple Music  and broadcast on YFM Accra every Sunday at 2pm, YFM Kumasi on Saturdays at 3pm and YFM Takoradi on Saturdays at 6pm.

Cover Star Interview
Kenyan singer-songwriter and guitarist Nviiri The Storyteller joins Nandi Madida via FaceTime on Apple Music 1 to talk about his latest track, the Bensoul collab, “Blessings.” He also discusses his new album, ‘Inside Out,’ tackling a range of emotions through his music, and how he’s experimented with new sounds.

The Big 5
Nandi Madida shares the 5 hottest new African tracks of the moment. This week’s selection includes new tracks from LADIPOE & Bella Shmurda, Simi, Nkosazana Daughter & Young Jonn, Wanitwa Mos, Master KG & Seemah feat. Lowsheen, and Reekado Banks feat. Adekunle Gold & Maleek Berry.

Africa Rising 
Nigerian singer-songwriter Bloody Civilian is the latest artist featured from Apple Music’s Africa Rising playlist, a campaign which shines a light on the next generation of African superstars, and this week’s show features her singles, “Mad Apology” and “I Don’t Like You,” from her debut EP, ‘Anger Management.’ Listen HERE.

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Nandi’s Song of the Week
Each week, Nandi Madida chooses her favourite track from one of Apple Music’s African playlists. This week she spotlights Nigerian superstar Rema and his single “Charm,” from Apple Music’s Afrobeats Hits playlist. Listen HERE.

Tune in and listen to the full episode this Friday, June 9th at 9a Lagos/London / 10a Johannesburg/Paris / 1a LA / 4a NYC on Apple Music 1 at apple.co/_AfricaNow and broadcast on YFM Accra every Sunday at 2pm, YFM Kumasi on Saturdays at 3pm and YFM Takoradi on Saturdays at 6pm.
Nviiri The Storyteller tells Apple Music about his new album, ‘Inside Out’

 

You know The Storyteller gets a bit emotional with his music, whether it’s club or not, and I’m always passing a message. There’s a lot of questions out here on my current status, I’ve mentioned it all in that music. You’ll know whether I’m in love, whether I’m dating, whether I’m still fighting, everything is there. That’s why we’re calling it ‘Inside Out’, I’m just letting it all out there, from deep within.

Nviiri The Storyteller tells Apple Music about Creating His First Full-Length Body of Work

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I feel like this was the right time to put out a body of work because now it’ll be able to get people to understand my new sound, sonic-wise. It’s also the same I did with ‘Kitenge’, because I was initially known as the man of the party, then after that I did ‘Kitenge’ which is more of an emotional EP, and of course I’m now considered principal of the school of heartbreak, I ended up opening a school of heartbreak here in Kenya! There’s a lot of burden to carry there so I just left it alone… and you basically on the album since we’re tackling all these sides – we have the party side, the conscious side where I’m just advising people, then the sad part and we have the love songs in there – and the fact that we have almost like four songs of every genre [on the album], it puts us in a good place to pass that message across.

Nviiri The Storyteller tells Apple Music about Exploring New Sounds

 

It got to a point where I had to decide on my own that my sound is how I write and how I approach the music, not necessarily the genre because that would limit us from exploring other sounds. Currently we have R&B tracks, we have amapiano, I’ve actually done house—not in the album, but I’ve done house—we have afropop and we’ve experimented in all the sounds. By the time it’s even in the album it’s not the first of its sound – we’ve done tracks over and over to make sure we get it right you know. We travelled all the way out of the country – the album we wrote in Dar es Salaam, Uganda and South Africa, just to get the feel of those specific places otherwise you’d be lying to yourself and your audience.

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Kkeda’s sultry and infectious sound dominates the airwaves with ‘All Night’

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After an entire year of missing her beautiful sound, with her last release being ‘Blue Jeans’, Afro-fusion singer, Kkeda has just unveiled her highly anticipated new single titled ‘All Night’. Blending elements of Afrobeats with her signature R&B style, Kkeda delivers a sultry and infectious sound that leaves listeners craving more.

Inspired by a blend of personal experiences and the desire for a carefree and passionate connection, ‘All Night’ takes listeners on a journey of love, desire and the allure of the night. The lyrics, penned by Kkeda herself, reveal a story of longing and the pursuit of genuine affection. With lines such as ‘’You think you’re smart, stop belling my phone line. If you want to settle, start booking the airline’’, Kkeda effortlessly captures the essence of desire and the yearning for a deeper connection without games, emphasizing the importance of actions over mere words.

Kkeda’s stunning vocals and charismatic presence have earned her a rapidly growing fanbase, with her previous releases garnering significant attention and praise. With ‘All Night’, Kkeda continues her streak of all hits, no misses, solidifying her position as a rising star in the R&B and Afrobeats scenes.

Kkeda’s journey began in London, where she was born to parents of Jamaican heritage. Raised by her loving grandmother in Ghana from the age of 5, she discovered the power of music at a young age. During her teenage years, Kkeda faced the challenge of scoliosis, which led her back to London for necessary spinal surgery. It was during this time that music became her solace and source of inspiration. After a successful recovery, Kkeda seized the opportunity to attend a prestigious London-based theatre school for two years. However, her heart was set on pursuing a career in singing, which led her back to Ghana. In 2019, she made her debut with the captivating track ‘I Like It’ in collaboration with Groundup Chale.

Kkeda music is a soulful blend of Afro-fusion, R&B and Pop. It serves as a powerful means of expression for her. Allowing her to convey a range of emotions, from anger and love to fear. Driven by her desire to make a lasting impact on people’s lives, Kkeda’s aim is to create music that resonates deeply with her audience. Her ultimate goal is to facilitate connection and self-expression, inspiring her audience to navigate and embrace the myriad of emotions that weigh upon them.

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‘All Night’ comes in two versions: the original version and a sped-up version available on all major streaming platforms here: https://lnk.to/yWSV8veP

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Instagram: kkedaofficial
Twitter: @kkedaofficial1

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BizGawd out with anticipated EP, ‘The Only Way Is Up’

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BizGawd

Up-and-coming artist BizGawd is set to release his highly anticipated EP entitled The Only Way Is Up. The EP consists of eight tracks that showcase the artist’s versatility and range of emotions. Listen Here.

The EP brings out various vibes ranging from motivational situations that one can find themselves in, to love, and a go-getter mindset. Each track has its unique sound and style, making it a perfect blend of different afrobeats and Afropop genres. The project promises to be a rollercoaster ride of emotions that will leave listeners feeling inspired and uplifted.

The Only Way Is Up is executive produced by Bybo Beatz, who is known for his exceptional production skills. The EP was engineered by Godboi Pelly and PRJR, who ensured that each track was mixed and mastered to perfection.

BizGawd out with anticipated EP, 'The Only Way Is Up'

BizGawd out with anticipated EP, ‘The Only Way Is Up’

BizGawd‘s raw talent and the team’s expertise have resulted in an EP that is sure to make waves in the music industry. The artist has already released two singles from the EP, “Mela” and “Boa Me,” which have received positive reviews from fans and critics alike.

With his unique sound and relatable lyrics, BizGawd is on his way to becoming one of the most promising new artists in the industry. The Only Way Is Up is a testament to the artist’s dedication to his craft and his commitment to creating music that resonates with his audience.

In conclusion, The Only Way Is Up is a must-listen for music lovers who are looking for an EP that is both inspiring and uplifting. BizGawd‘s talent and the team’s expertise have resulted in a project that is sure to make waves in the music industry and cement the artist’s place as one of the most promising new talents to watch out for.

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