Connect with us

Listen

Spotify’s African Heat Campaign Celebrates African Dance Music Culture

Published

on

FuseODG4 copy

“The rich diversity of musical talent in Africa inspires and engages fans around the world. Spotify continues to use the power of its platform to amplify African voices across a global stage, building an ongoing narrative that supports and puts African creators at the forefront.”– Phiona Okumu, Spotify Head of Music Sub-Saharan Africa.

 

Celebrating the power of African voices across the continent and beyond, Spotify is shining a spotlight on one of its flagship, curated playlists African Heat, through an interactive campaign that  brings the spirit of Africa alive around the world.

 

The campaign journeys through a series of partnerships, activations, a dance challenge video (#africanheatchallenge), and more creative content opportunities that will play out through on-and-off-platform initiatives on local, regional, and international levels. Highlighting the diversity of African talent, the playlist is an explosion of Afro-centric sounds, carving out a space for African creators to showcase their music to a global audience.

Advertisement

 

Centered on the key role that the Afro-dance community has played in spreading African pop music across the globe, the campaign includes the likes of Focalistic, Fuse ODG, Olamide, as well as some of the leading female faces of dance music in Africa – Moonchild Sanelly, Sho Madjozi, Niniola, and Amapiano’s Lady Du.

 

“I remember when we launched Antenna dance, where people had to team up and dance. We had all types of entries from across the world from France to Australia, to the UK to countries in Africa. And there was a moment, where Africans were uniting through this one purpose which was dance and music. So definitely, dance has done a lot more than people just enjoying themselves. It actually helped bring Africa together and actually shed a positive light on Africa,” said Fuse ODG.

 

Advertisement

By including emerging and established artists alongside one another – Amapiano’s newer artists Focalistic and Lady Du together with Azonto dance genre pioneer Fuse ODG and Shaku Shaku street dance driver, Olamide – Spotify is showcasing its dedication to and investment in all artists.

 

Taking African Heat to The Streets with the #africanheatchallenge

 

The beautifully shot clip was directed by the talented, award-winning, Johannesburg-based Zandi Tisani, who uses her experience to draw attention to her work in edgy and bold ways. Set to Focalistic’s hit Ke Star,” the clip encourages fans to immerse themselves in the sounds of the playlist, delving into the language of dance to express the connection between African communities worldwide that share a love of dance music. Watch the clip HERE.

Advertisement

 

The video features dancers from major cities in Africa and across the globe, including local sensation Kamo Mpela, Nigeria’s Boluwatife, Ghana’s DWP Academy and more as they move through the streets of their cities doing the #africanheatchallenge.

 

This is not the first collab between Spotify and Focalistic who, as one of Spotify’s RADAR AFRICA artists, has already benefited from the support that the program promises to artists across all stages of their career development. The African Heat campaign is another example of how Spotify continues to showcase and support African talent.

 

Advertisement

“My music is an honest expression of who I am and where I come from, Pitori! I am the voice of the hood! I am the voice of the YOUTH! I want to take my voice to the world and Spotify is helping me do that. With my recent DaVido collab on the ‘Ke Star (Remix)’ promoting African Heat to a wider audience gives me and other African artists more opportunities to reach millions of Spotify listeners,” said Focalistic. “Music is a universal language and I want the world to understand our lingo, our movement, and our sound! I’m excited to see where we can go! To the top!! Ase Trap tse ke PINA tsa ko Kasi!”

 

On the playlist today, fans can find Spotify Clips, featuring soundbites and self-shot videos from the artists mentioned, speaking to the impact and influence of African Dance culture. These artists will also appear on large-scale Spotify billboards to promote African Heat  in New York City and Toronto.

 

Amplify Spotify’s commitment across Africa

Advertisement

 

Spotify recently expanded its footprint in Africa by launching into new markets including Ghana, Kenya, Nigeria, Tanzania and Uganda, giving African creators the opportunity to connect with a global audience of fans. With its unrivalled mix of features that have made it the world’s most popular audio streaming subscription service, including more than 70 million international and local songs and over 4 billion playlists, Spotify is excited to introduce its African audience to a best in class product and a localised experience MADE FOR AFRICA!

 

Follow the conversation and join the #africanheatchallenge on Spotify social media platforms including Facebook: @spotifyAfrica | Instagram: @spotifyAfrica

 

Advertisement

#SpotifyAfrica

Download the Spotify app via the Android or iOS app store or by heading to www.spotify.com – to embed Spotify into a website – right click on any playlist, go to ‘share’ and copy embed code.

 

Advertisement

World News

Doe Boy Presents much-anticipated full length album, ‘BEEZY’

Published

on

Doe Boy Presents much-anticipated full length album, 'BEEZY'

Making a statement as loudly as possible, critically acclaimed Cleveland hip-hop phenomenon Doe Boy proudly presents his anxiously awaited new project, BEEZY, today via Freebandz/Epic Records. Listen to BEEZY HERE.

The 16-track project unfolds as a rap blockbuster of the highest order. He attracted an A-list cohort of guests, including Future, G Herbo, and Roddy Ricch on the irresistible “TRY & SEE, Lily Yachty and Luh Tyler during the hilarious “KARDASHIANS, Lola Brooke on the punchy “DUMB,” EST GEE for the street anthem “PICK A SIDE, and Cleveland legends Krayzie Bone and Bizzy Bone on the haunting and hypnotic finale “GRIM REAPER.

Check out the full tracklisting below.

About the project, Doe Boy commented, “It tells my story, everything I’ve been through, all of the trials and tribulations I overcame, and where I’m at now. It’s all based on true stories. Nothing is fabricated. I’m going to give you everything. I’m elevated as a grown man now. I’m not a kid anymore. The way I move is bossed all the way up. I’ve come a long way from East Cleveland. BEEZY is my nickname, so this album is self-titled. It’s who I am today and all of the things that brought me here. This is all of my different moods all rolled up into one as BEEZY.

It also boasts the single “DEEP END” [feat. Don Toliver]. He just uncovered a cinematic music video for this melodic banger. Watch it HERE.

Advertisement

He initially teased BEEZY with “WAY I WALK.It has just begun to gain steam at DSPs. HipHopDX plugged it, and Rap Radar proclaimed, “The Freebandz rapper does his killer step to Hendrix Smoke, John Luther, and Nick Mira’s groove while delivering his cutthroat lyrics.

“WAY I WALK” hinges on a head-nodding and nostalgic Jennifer Lopez sample as Doe Boylocks into a bouncy flow. His cadence instantly captivates as he struts towards one of his catchiest choruses to date, “This just the way I walk. The accompanying visual showcases just that as he and a group of friends groove, smoke, and turn up outside in their neighborhood.

Last year, Doe Boy continued his rapid rise with the CATCH ME IF YOU CAN EP. It tallied over 10 million streams and earned critical plugs from the likes of Complex and RapRadar who noted, Doe Boy is hard to kill.” Perhaps REVOLT put it best by proclaiming, “If you not hip to Doe Boy by now, shame on you.

It’s time to get to know BEEZY….

TRACKLISTING:

Advertisement

1 RHUDE BOY

2 NONSENSE

3 WAY I WALK

4 NUMBER GAME FT. BABYFACE RAY

5 KARDASHIANS FT. LIL YACHTY & LUH TYLER

Advertisement

6 TOP TAKER FT. BIG FLAME 8

7 RAN INTO A THUG

8 DEEP END FT. DON TOLIVER

9 TRY & SEE FT. FUTURE, G HERBO & RODDY RICCH

10 DEMON TIME

Advertisement

11 DUMB FT. LOLA BROOKE

12 CLOUT CHASE FT. DABABY

13 FIRST 48 GANG

14 PICK A SIDE FT. EST GEE

15 MENACE FT FUTURE

Advertisement

16 GRIM REAPER FT. KRAYZIE BONE & BIZZY BONE

Continue Reading

World News

Sam Smith & Madonna out with “VULGAR,”

Published

on

Sam Smith & Madonna out with “VULGAR,”

In February 2023, Madonna introduced an arresting GRAMMY® Awards show performance by Sam Smith ft. Kim Petras. “Are you ready for some controversy?” she asked, before making a heartfelt speech. “If they call you shocking, scandalous, troublesome, problematic, provocative or dangerous,” she said, “You are definitely onto something.” The day after, with their fifth GRAMMY Award in hand, Sam headed into a Los Angeles studio with Madonna to record a fierce, unapologetic duet: “VULGAR.” Listen HERE. View the lyric video HERE.

 

A fearless, bold anthem, “VULGAR” honors every word of Madonna’s speech. It’s the celebratory sound of two artists conjoining in abandon, a meeting of wild minds, hooks and aesthetics, punctuated by an Eastern string break and bolstered by earth-shattering bass. It is a two-and-a-half minute slap-back to repression and a demand for respect. Released today by Capitol Records, the single was produced by ILYA for MXM Productions, Cirkut, Omer Fedi, Ryan Tedder, Jimmy Napes, Sam and Lauren D’elia, Madonna’s vocal producer and engineer.

 

Sam Smith is a multi-award-winning, multi-platinum-selling singer, songwriter and lightning rod for provocation. Their third studio album, Gloria, has sold over 40 million albums sold worldwide and been praised by Rolling Stone as “their deepest album yet.” Sam will launch the North American leg of GLORIA The Tour on July 25.

Advertisement

 

Madonna, the best-selling female artist of all time, continues to push boundaries and transform culture. She will kick off her highly anticipated global Celebration Tour in July.

Together, they are S&M. Together, they are “VULGAR.”

Continue Reading

Listen

Ghanaian singer Darkua shares soulful new single ECHO

Published

on

20230516 083137

Ghanaian Afrofusion Artiste, Darkua has released her new single ECHO which marks her debut single for 2023. (more…)

Continue Reading

Listen

Sofie and $pacely make waves with ‘3AM in Labadi’

Published

on

Sofie x Holy Smoke 5

Accra, Ghana – Ride the sonic wave as rising star Sofie invites $pacely to feature on her 2nd single of the year, ‘3AM in Labadi’. This global Afrobeats tune crosses borders with its fusion of vibrant instrumentation and captivating melodies. The composition delves into the immersive experience of bonding with your crew in the vibrant city of Accra; whether it’s chilling at Labadi Beach, dancing in the club or heading to the hottest spot in town. Listen HERE: https://fanlink.to/3AMinLabadi

The song embodies the spirit of joy and adventure encapsulating the essence of those magical nights spent with friends. Sofie and $pacely’s voices effortlessly blend with the bouncy drums and smooth guitar chords in the song. The essence of the track takes the listener on a ride that they don’t want to stop. Zodivc, the producer of the song did an amazing job composing the Afropop sound of ‘3AM in Labadi’. Sofie’s recent afro inspired sound is a collection of her experience navigating life in her 20s. 

Sofie is a Ghanaian singer-songwriter and producer with a soulful R&B sound that blends West African instruments and rhythms. She uses her platform to raise awareness and inspire positive change. Sofie has released two EPs and multiple singles, including her latest ‘SUV’ in May 2023. She has performed at notable events such as the Chalewote Festival, Ghana’s Independence Anniversary and the Women of Colour celebration in Boston. Sofie also opened for Stonebwoy at his Homeland concert in March 2023 at the Palladium in Times Square and has played headline shows in Boston, NYC, LA and Accra. 

$pacely, also known as Elorm Kabu Amenyah or Keanu, was born in Accra and grew up in Geneva. He speaks English, French, Twi and Ga fluently and draws inspiration from various cultures. He remains a flexible creative, switching flow from English to French to Twi He formed the collective La Même Gang with five other talented musicians, showcasing his versatility in Trap, Afropop and R&B. 

Enjoy the smooth vibe of the song and let it transport you to the wavy world created by Sofie, $pacely and the brilliant production of Zodivc.

Advertisement

CONNECT WITH THE ARTISTS:

Instagram: lionessofie
Twitter: @lionessofie1
Facebook: Sofie

Instagram: spacely1z
Twitter: @Spacely1z
Facebook: $pacely

Advertisement
Continue Reading

Listen

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

Published

on

Frazz Artwork

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.

Frazz Artwork.jpg

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.

Advertisement

“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

Advertisement

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

Continue Reading

Listen

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

Published

on

amaarae 3 photo credit josh croll wide

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…)

Continue Reading
Advertisement

Sign up

Trending