Best New Music: Reekado Banks - Prettyboy D-O - Nasty C - Tiwa Savage

Efya and Tiwa Savage – The One

An Overview: Best New Music

A lot of great songs –both singles and off-project cuts– was released over the past few days.

As usual, we've brought to you, a run-down of these songs. Fresh as they are.

ISAH – ANTI - SOCIAL

Over the weekend, rapper Isah released a new tape, SARDUANA Vol. 1. Its eight tracks investigate kingship and places the creator there, in a world of his own. On "ANTI SOCIAL," over a Trap bounce, he relays his lack of interest in social activity that doesn't translate to money making opportunities. Trite theme, but well done on this song.

Reekado Banks & Skiibii – Banger

In "Sensima" the duo of Reekado Banks and Skiibii made one of the great songs of its time. In "Banger," they combine their synergy for an Afro Pop record that'll soon begin to grow on people. An impeccable listen from two bubbly young voices.

Nasty C ft. T.I. – They Don't 

Nasty C has always relayed his desire to be the greatest, and when he signed a Def Jam deal a while ago, many saw the Durban kid's vision to take over the world. In "They Don't," Nasty makes the crossover to Atlanta, and features T.I., a rapper he's often spoken of as an inspiration. Their verses are aspirational, upholding the legitimacy of a black man's dream; and T.I. shouts out the late George Floyd in his.

Yung 6ix ft. Sammy Krane & Sinzu – Shole 

He's been excited about this project for a while, Yung 6ix. Introduction to Trap Fro, as gleaned, is a mix of Trap and Afrobeats, and 6ix, over the years, has swum those waters. "Shole" features an energetic hook from Dammy Krane, and sets the tempo for the verses from rappers 6ix and Sinzu.

SydneyofAfrica – Moves 

The first single of the year from the promising act. On "Moves," his versatility shines as he delivers a sound message of hard work over a trippy stripped down Trap production. You should check this out; it's a certified banger!

Sauti Sol – Sober

Premier African boy band (from Kenya) Sauti Sol just released their latest album, Midnight Train, their first since signing onto EMPIRE. "Sober" is a somber sounding number built on intricate strings and the heart melding vocals and lyricism of Sauti's acts.

Cyrus Tha Virus – Signal 

Cyrus Tha Virus has been in the rap game for a long time. Only this weekend did he release an album, Born Nameless, Die Legend. I particularly like this record, "Signal," a pop infused song, and one of the most enjoyable moments on the BNDL tape.

Best New Music 

Efya & Tiwa Savage – The One 

Two of Africa's most sensational divas combine forces over a Blaq Jerzee beat. What could go wrong, they ask. Nothing, really. This chill Reggae tinged bop is strong on songwriting and distinct vocals, and one of the best songs I've heard all year.

Prettyboy D-O ft. Tim Lyre – Odeshi 

Prettyboy D-O has had some influential moments this year, mostly as a feature on songs alongside acts from his set. A leader of that set, D-O's artistic vision is unique, combining high energy raps with the best beats around. "Odeshi" is yet another single before his forthcoming project Wildwire, and features Tim Lyre with whom he creates an optimistic jam against the evil forces.

Oladips – Tusi 

"Tusi" is a page right off the Sheteperi hit book. Listening to its the head-bumping production one already visualize dances. But Oladips has Hip Hop roots too, and his catchy bars on this track will remind you of that fact.

Talksiick ft. CKay – The Friendzone Song 

Cool voices are springing up each day, and Talksiick sounds very convincing. "The Friendzone Song," off a forthcoming project, features CKay, both artists singing sweetly of their not familial interest in a lady.

Givens – Woman 

Concerning the recent agitation against sexual assault and violence against women in recent times, this song assumes anthemic poise. But on its own, it's a beautiful if not dazzling composition, Givens's voice is lucid and the ominous production builds and swells around that, breaking into drums at some point.

May D – Lówó Lówó

May D's newest number is an optimistic and lifting bop, the artist's finger on melody and songwriter shining through on this. We all could have paid his EP more attention, but the man is showing no attempt to stop anytime soon; especially considering how frequent his name's been in the news lately.

Best New Music 

Bando Boyz & Eniola Havoc – Big Bando 

Eniola Havoc is a very promising rapper. I'd been sold on Ebute Metta Like Compton, and listened intently for his music ever since. "Big Bando" is a fun record which sees Eniola wrecking havoc on the chill vibe of a beat, his lines aligning by the visceral and communal. "I sanitize my hands but my mind is still in touch/ I miss the bando, and I miss the boys/ I miss my girl, who's gonna keep her moist..." Nuff said.