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Wande Coal Releases New Single ‘Umbrella’

Published

11 months ago

October 29, 2022

oday Afrofusion legend and Nigerian singer, producer and songwriter Wande Coal dropped a new single and visual titled, ‘Umbrella.’ Co-written by grammy-nominated producer Sak Pase, multi-platinum singer/songwriter Sean Kingston and Wande Coal, the single comes as the first visual offering and second single from EMPIRE’s new compilation album Where We Come From (VOL. 1). “Umbrella is meant to celebrate love and how protective, special, and full of life it makes you feel,” Wande says.

In the video directed by Austin McCracken, Wande is first seen playing the piano and singing at a wedding. After the couple marries, Wande celebrates by dancing in the rain and sings the song’s chorus, “I’m in the rain like umbrella.” The visual cuts back to the wedding reception and shows guests dancing and enjoying the festivities. “I like for my music to tell a story and paint a picture of what I’m going through and experiencing,” Wande said regarding the visual direction. “When people listen to this, I want them to think of happier times with people they love to be around.”

Wande’s ‘Umbrella,’ in celebration of the explosion of African music into mainstream airwaves. EMPIRE is the top label in Nigeria and this compilation project is a body of work that’s set to highlight the rising talent from their ever-growing roster on the continent. The first single from the project, ‘Cough,’ by Kizz Daniel dropped on 10/14 and is currently #2 on the Global Shazam chart.

The album was created during the writing camp at EMPIRE’s headquarters in San Francisco directly following their first showcase “The New Africa” during the second night of SXSW. During the writing camp, the crowd saw performances by BNXN FKA Buju, Cheque, Fireboy DML, June Freedom, L.A.X. Wande Coal, and other trail blazers signed to the label. Artists set to be spotlighted on the upcoming project include Fireboy DML, Olamide, BXNX fka BUJU, Black Sherif, Kizz Daniel, L.A.X, and more.

Tina Davis, EMPIRE’s Senior Vice President of A&R, signed Wande Coal to EMPIRE and is excited to share his latest project. “It was an honor to sign a legend like Wande Coal. As a forefather of the Afro-Fusion genre we wanted to make sure we highlighted him on this project,” she said. “Outside of him being an amazing person, he approaches this record from a pure place of love.”

EMPIRE globalized their existing success in America by further highlighting the accomplishments of Nigerian artists like Fireboy DML, Olamide and Asake. Named as the top label in Nigeria after only one year of its creation, EMPIRE holds the title by market share and as the top music company with the most collective No. 1’s in Nigeria by TurnTable Charts, the Billboard equivalent in Africa. Furthermore, artists across EMPIRE’s roster dominate the Top 35 songs on Apple Music’s ‘Nigeria Top Songs’ chart and held the #1 Top Single for over 17 weeks on TurnTable Charts. The artist division has seen much success with Fireboy DML becoming the first African artist to perform at the 2022 BET Awards, Kizz Daniel breaking records as most streamed artist on Boomplay, KiDi going platinum in India for his hot single “Touch It” featuring multi-platinum recording artist Tyga, and Black Sheriff gaining 75+ million audio streams for “Kwaku the Traveller” in just one month.

“The artists from Africa really transcend where music is today,” Ghazi, EMPIRE CEO and Founder said. “This is a legendary moment for EMPIRE to be able to share incredible African music with the world, much of which we were fortunate enough to record at our studio here in San Francisco.”

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Apple Music’s 5 Biggest Nigerian Artists of All Time — and 5 On the Rise

Published

14 hours ago

September 29, 2023

Ameyaw Debrah

As Nigeria celebrates its 63rd year of independence, Apple Music is celebrating once again with Oshe Naija, a campaign highlighting Nigerian music’s rich history — as well as the ever-growing influence it has on culture today.

Over the past few years, time and again Nigerian artists have set new, bigger milestones on Apple Music, helping bring the music to an ever-growing global audience. Just look at the feats of the five biggest Nigerian artists of all time.

Burna Boy, the (No. 1) most-streamed Nigerian artist of all time on Apple Music, has smashed record after record with his blockbuster albums, and his latest was no exception: I Told Them… not only broke the African record for first-week streams, but also topped the albums chart in 69 countries simultaneously worldwide, a new record for the genre. Hitmaker Wizkid (No. 2) still holds the record for the most-streamed African song of all time with “Essence (feat. Tems),” which has reached the Daily Top 100 in more than 100 countries worldwide, and continues to reach the charts three years after its release. Davido (No. 3) had a record-breaking release with his 2022 album Timeless, and singer and rapper Rema (No.4) has had one of the biggest songs of the summer on Apple Music worldwide with the Afrobeats hit “Calm Down,” which now holds the record for the African single with the longest run in the top 15 of the Global Daily Top 100. Rounding out the top five is Asake, who’s seen an impressive 11 songs reach the Global Daily Top 100.

And with a whole new class of Nigerian artists on the rise, big moments like these will keep coming. Read on for five of the biggest breakthrough Nigerian artists on Apple Music right now.

1. Seyi Vibez

Seyi Vibez has started to get listeners worldwide hooked on his modernist take on Apala, a traditional Yoruba-rooted genre, that draws on elements of Fuji, Amapiano, Hip-Hop, Afro-soul music. Since the release of 2021“s “God Sent,” which became his first song to reach Apple Music’s Daily Top 100, the 23-year-old has seen more than 50 songs reach the chart in 20 countries. Seyi Vibez reached new heights last November with the release of his album Billion Dollar Baby and more successes have followed, including his first No. 1 on Nigeria’s Daily Top 100 and a feature on Burna Boy’s star-studded I Told Them… All told, Seyi Vibez’ streams have grown more than five-fold (+435%) in the past year.

2. Odumodublvck

With a sound that hops between Drill, Grime and Afrobeats and more, Odumodublvck is one of the hottest rappers coming out of Nigeria. After a co-sign by Skepta and signing to NATIVE Records, his November single “Picanto” became his first song to reach the Daily Top 100 in Nigeria. But it was with the release of his March single “Declan Rice” that his streams really started to soar. The song became his first song to top the chart in Nigeria, and also reached the chart in 11 other countries. In the past year, Odumodublvck’s streams have soared over 3,500% on Apple Music worldwide.

3. Shallipopi

Shallipopi has had a whirlwind year thanks to his viral Afrobeats hit “Elon Musk.” The song first heated up in March, when it became Shallipopi’s first song to reach Nigeria’s Daily Top 100, and paved the way for Shallipopi’s big breakthrough. This summer, he scored his first No. 1 in Nigeria with “Ex Convict,” sent seven other songs to the charts in 12 countries worldwide and was named an Apple Music Up Next artist in Nigeria, joining the likes of Khaid, Pawzzz and Novemba. In late June, Afrobeats star Fireboy DML hopped on a remix of “Elon Musk,” which helped Shallipopi’s streams soar 508% in Nigeria and 467% worldwide in one week.

4. Victor Thompson

Year after year, Nigeria and other African nations far outpace other nations in Christian and Gospel listening — with the genre accounting for a larger percentage of listening, and more songs reaching the Daily Top 100. It’s fostered the rise of artists like Gospel singer-songwriter Victor Thompson, who had a breakthrough in January with “This Year (Blessings).” The song has been Thompson’s biggest chart hit to date, reaching the Daily Top 100 in 58 countries, including 10 where it’s reached the top 10. All told, Thompson’s music has seen a 244% lift in streams worldwide year on year.

5. Bayanni

Team-ups between Nigerian and American artists are becoming more and more common each year, and each year, they climb higher and higher up the charts. Case in point: “Ta Ta Ta,” a teamup between Nigerian singer Bayanni and American pop star Jason Derulo. After the song was originally released on Bayanni’s 2022 self-titled EP, and started gaining steam late last year, Derulo hopped onto a remix in spring, helping it become an even bigger global hit. “Ta Ta Ta” has reached the Daily Top 100 in 54 countries, including 20 where it’s reached the top 10.

Celebrate Nigerian Independence at Apple Music’s Oshe Naija dedicated space.

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Keche Releases New Single Party Of The Year Featuring Mr Drew

Published

15 hours ago

September 29, 2023

Ameyaw Debrah

Ghana’s dynamic music duo, Keche, is all set to ignite the music scene once again with their highly anticipated new single titled “Party Of the Year,” featuring the talented Mr. Drew. This infectious track, produced by the renowned Willis Beat and masterfully mixed and mastered by ForqzyBeatz, is slated for release on September 29th, 2023. Music enthusiasts, fans, and partygoers alike, brace yourselves for an unforgettable musical experience that is sure to dominate playlists and dance floors across the nation!

Known for their unique blend of Afrobeats, high-energy performances, and catchy melodies, Keche has solidified their position as one of Ghana’s most dynamic musical acts. With numerous chart-topping hits and a dedicated fan base, they have consistently brought their signature style to the forefront of the Ghanaian music industry.

“Party Of the Year” promises to be no exception, as Keche teams up with the sensational Mr. Drew to deliver a track that embodies the spirit of celebration and unity. The synergy between these two talented artists is expected to create a musical masterpiece that will resonate with fans both locally and internationally.

Producer Willis Beat and sound engineer ForqzyBeatz have worked their magic behind the scenes to ensure that “Party Of the Year” boasts the highest quality production and audio clarity. The single promises to be a sonic delight, with its pulsating beats and infectious melodies that will have listeners grooving from start to finish.

“We’re thrilled to share ‘Party Of the Year’ with our fans,” says Keche. “It’s a song that embodies the joy and spirit of celebration, and we hope it brings happiness to everyone who listens to it. Working with Mr. Drew has been an incredible experience, and we can’t wait for the world to hear what we’ve created together.”

Mark your calendars for September 29th, 2023, and get ready to join the “Party Of the Year” with Keche and Mr. Drew. This release promises to be a musical extravaganza that will have fans dancing and singing along all night long. Stay tuned for more updates on this exciting release and be prepared to elevate your party experience to a whole new level.

https://ziiki.media/PartyOfTheYear-Keche

Spotify – https://open.spotify.com/track/2l7g9za5ukNtQN4h1vSCbK

Apple Music – https://music.apple.com/us/album/party-of-the-year-feat-mr-drew/1708255689?i=1708256240

iTunes – https://music.apple.com/us/album/party-of-the-year-feat-mr-drew-single/1708255689

Deezer – https://www.deezer.com/album/490463845

Boomplay – https://www.boomplay.com/share/album/77145268?srModel=COPYLINK&srList=CMS

Audiomack – https://audiomack.com/keche-22/song/party-of-the-year

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Out Now: Tymain Robbins Releases Album ‘Fashionably Late’

Published

17 hours ago

September 29, 2023

Ameyaw Debrah

Tymain Robbins Releases Album ‘Fashionably Late’

North Carolina emcee and creative Tymain Robbins reveals his newest album ‘Fashionably Late’ September 29th which is a testament and journey for him to showcase not only his story but also his amazing talent in curating music. The main story of my upcoming album revolves around self-discovery and personal growth. Each track is a chapter in this narrative, with themes of overcoming, determination, and finding one’s true purpose. Fans of artists like J. Cole, Nas, and Jay-Z should find solace in Tymain Robbins.

“I also watched this Russ interview where he quoted something from John Mayor. He mentioned, “if you wait too long to drop your own songs you’re late to your own party”. That saying really stuck with me,” Tymain said. He continued with, “I’m an artist who has held on to years of music trying to create the perfect project, and it’s caused me to not drop much. The interview made me realize that during this time I’ve forced myself to be late to my accomplishments, celebrations, current fans enjoying new music, and new fans discovering me. So, I decided that if I’m late to my party then I at least need to arrive in fashion.”

The overall LP is based on a diverse amount of topics coming from the words of Tymain himself. The tracks that are the focus on this project are “Fashionably Late,” “Denim Tears,” and “Endless Possibilities.” “Fashionably Late” is about coming back after a hiatus and being better than ever due to the amount of work you put in over the off-season. “Denim Tears” plays on the title of the project, is filled with confidence and this song is about the embodiment of everything in your genes. “Endless Possibilities” is about overcoming adversity and finding strength within ourselves. It’s one of those, “if I can do it, so can you” records.

His recent Rolls Royce activation event is an example of how he extends his creativity to outside the studio. The Rolls Royce listening event was inspired by the luxurious and sophisticated nature of the album. “I wanted the event to match the grandeur of the music and provide fans with a unique and memorable experience,” he said. “The Rolls Royce symbolizes both success and class, which aligns with the album’s themes of ambition and self-improvement. I really just wanted to do something different that I haven’t seen before.”

Pre-save Link: https://distrokid.com/hyperfollow/tymainrobbins/fashionably-late (https://distrokid.com/hyperfollow/tymainrobbins/fashionably-late)

World News

DaBaby Releases New Single “TRICKIN'”

Published

17 hours ago

September 29, 2023

Ameyaw Debrah

DaBaby & Anthony Hamilton out Cinematic Video For “BLANK”

DaBaby (South Coast Music Group/Interscope Records) is showing his consistency with the release of a brand new single titled “TRICKIN’.” The song finds the Charlotte, North Carolina native whipping through production from Charlie Heat that samples the 1980 Devo classic “Whip It.” DaBaby aims to change the narrative around “situationships” by giving a “how to” on “TRICKIN’.”

Listen HERE.

DaBaby has been having an incredible summer thanks to the success of his scorching hot single “SHAKE SUMN.” The song became his sixth No. 1 single after it topped the Urban Radio chart and was the biggest single off his CALL DA FIREMAN 3-pack as it peaked at No. 11, No. 18, and No. 65 on Billboard’s Hot Rap Songs, Hot R&B/Hip-Hop Songs, and Hot 100 charts, respectively.

“SHAKE SUMN” has also been recognized at the 2023 BET Awards as it was nominated for Best Hip-Hop Video and got the multi-platinum-selling artist a nomination for Video Director of the Year alongside Reel Goats. He also received a 2023 BET Awards nomination for Best Live Performer.

DaBaby has been putting in serious work on the directorial front as he recently directed the visuals for Lil Duval’s new single “Squeeze.”

DaBaby “TRICKIN’” eSingle

Retail: https://DaBaby.lnk.to/trickin

World News

6LACK Releases Two New Songs

Published

17 hours ago

September 29, 2023

Ameyaw Debrah

Hot on the heels of an explosive run, the groundbreaking artist 6LACK releases two thrilling new songs today via LVRN/Interscope Records ahead of his first headlining tour in over six years. The exhilarating track “Homicide” sees both 6LACK and singer / songwriter Jessie Reyez coming together after many years of friendship and deep admiration for one another.

Here, the two artists breathe life into the complexities of intense love, infatuation, and the synergy of the two, painting a portrait of a fatal tango between two lovers. The strong, years-long bond between the two artists is almost palpable through the track, as it tastefully bridges their equally compelling vocals together. The stirring track “Mean It” chronicles a moving confessional and showcases 6LACK’s unmatched dexterity through a striking vast sonic terrain that demonstrates why he remains one of the most pivotal artists in music today.

Listen HERE.

Additionally, 6LACK will be kicking off his colossal new Since I Have A Lover world tour on October 1st in Portland. The tour will span across North America and Europe with over 40 dates and with support from an array of dynamic artists including Mereba, SPINALL, QUIN, Jordan Ward, and Sadboi throughout the run – full dates below. The trek will serve as 6LACK’s highly anticipated return to the stage after an over 6-year touring hiatus.

The extraordinary run will see the beloved artist bring to life for the first time his critically acclaimed album Since I Have A Lover in what will undeniably be a one-of-a-kind moving moment for attendees. The live shows will expand on the healing journey that 6LACK set out to convey with the project. An intimate one that both sheds light on the highs and lows of his life, and pulls from his firsthand experiences with mental health, recovery, self-improvement, and love.

Pronounced “Black,” the three-time GRAMMY-nominated and multi-platinum selling artist has brilliantly captured a voice of a generation through his dynamic art for years now. Born and raised in Zone 6 of Atlanta, 6LACK exploded onto the scene with his breakout debut FREE 6LACK album in 2016, cementing his insatiable, singular sound. He was later catapulted into stardom in 2018 with the arrival of his critically acclaimed album, East Atlanta Love Letter, which hit No. 1 on the Top R&B Albums and peaked at No. 3 on the Billboard 200.

The revered artist has amassed over 7.8 billion global streams across platforms while also giving the world some of the biggest hits from the past decade through explosive collaborations with some of today’s most beloved artists including J. Cole, Future, Selena Gomez, Young Thug, Timbaland, Normani, Isaiah Rashad, Rita Ora, Ty Dolla $ign, Lil Baby, Khalid, Jessie Reyez, Nao and many more. Most recently, his colossal collaboration with Lil Tjay on the song “Calling My Phone” earned him a No. 1 on Billboard’s Hot R&B/Hip-Hop Songs chart, No. 1 on the Hot Rap Songs chart and hit No. 3 on the all-genre Billboard Hot 100 chart. The track has since reached platinum status and was brought to life through a moving performance on The Tonight Show with Jimmy Fallon.

6LACK – Homicide & “Mean It” eSingles

Retail: https://6lack.lnk.to/homicide

LISTEN TO SINCE I HAVE A LOVER HERE

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Christiana Hati: New Gospel Singer shares touching ‘Testimony’ in new video

Published

18 hours ago

September 29, 2023

Ameyaw Debrah

Christiana Hati: New Gospel Singer shares touching ‘Testimony’ in new video

Coming out as the latest Ghanaian Gospel Singer who launched her music career this September, Christiana Hati is putting the right PR in place to push her brand forth with her song ministry. (more…)