Straight from your GROK music team comes a list of some of their favourite afrobeat records. Featuring songs from Davido, Peruzzi, Naira Marley, Joeboy, and more, this playlist is a smorgasbord of Afrobeat sounds.
In no particular order, here are your March picks!
Image Credit: Emily Nkanga
SOMEBODY BABY – PERUZZI & DAVIDO
‘Somebody Baby’ is another amazing record from the incredibly talented Nigerian artist Peruzzi, featuring his fellow 30BG member and Africa’s superstar, Davido. As one of the lead singles off his sophomore album, this track is an instant fan favourite that will be instantly added to your playlist after the first listen. Both artists blend so well, effortlessly adding their own different vibes to the tune, making it an outstanding single. ‘Somebody Baby’ is proudly stating that the album, Rum & Boogie is an excellent follow-up to Peruzzi’s debut album, Huncho Vibez.
ARE YOU SURE – LYTA FT. EMO GRAE, NAIRA MARLEY & ZINOLEESKY
After so many label transitions, one can definitely say Lyta has found a place to call home in Marlian Music. The label has given him creative freedom, made clear with his latest single, ‘Are You Sure’. This track features fellow label mates Emo Grae, Naira Marley and Zinoleesky. The track is extremely well executed with a parallel song production featuring the 4 different vocalists. The first 15 seconds of the song is an indication that Lyta is all about those sweet melodies that keep you wanting more and more.
FOREVER (REMIX) – GYAKIE & OMAH LAY
Two of Africa’s rising stars join forces in this super love record. The original track is featured on Gyakie’s EP Seed, released last year. Since then, it has become one of the young acts most popular projects. This track can be found playing across Africa from Ghana (where Gyakie is from) to Nigeria (where Omah Lay is from). This track is an opportunity for Gyakie to penetrate the Nigerian music scene and for Omah Lay to expand his presence in Ghana. But the single is not just about that, it is a worthy remix and a lovely afrobeat love song that will be playing on repeat for quite a while.
FALL FOR ME – LAYCON FT. YKB
After winning the 5th season of Big Brother Nigeria, the rapper and singer-songwriter has been cultivating his presence in the music scene. ‘Fall For Me’ was released alongside ‘Wagwan’, with both tracks lead singles off his upcoming debut album. The track features guest vocals from regular collaborator YKB, previously known as Yusufkanbai. This track is arguably the greatest collaborative release from the artists. Top-notch execution and a great beat from Laycon on this track are a guarantee that his anticipated debut album will be memorable.
COMING – NAIRA MARLEY & BUSISWA
‘Coming’ by the Marlian Music President, Naira Marley, features Busiswa, one of South Africa’s leading soulful vocalists. Both artists are well known for producing music filled with lots of dance steps and groove. As such, it’s no surprise they finally decided to work on a track together. In this release, they create a steamy Amapiano hit with a fusion of Afrobeats. Two big forces coming together to make this track is a celebration of young African talent. This release is a must-play at any gathering or event.
FOCUS – JOEBOY
‘Focus’, a single off Joeboy’s debut album, Somewhere Between Beauty & Magic is an instant hit. His impressive new album has been topping charts and breaking records ever since its release. Focus is all about unrequited love and a romantic interest that fails to be straightforward about their intentions. It is based on a real experience by one of his producers who was involved in the production of the album. It is obvious that the Nigerian young superstar has mastered the art of making hits and needs everyone to ‘Focus’ on what he has to offer.