A tornado touches down, Democracy Day hands us a long weekend, and fresh music arrives right on cue.

Whether you're spending the holiday on the road, at a rooftop hangout, curled up indoors avoiding the rain, or dancing your way through the weekend, there's no shortage of new sounds to keep you company.

Leading the charge is Ayra Starr, whose latest single arrives with all the force its title promises but she's far from alone.

From Sarkodie and Shatta Wale's triumphant reunion to Bloody Civilian's genre-bending return and a handful of records built for both reflection and celebration, this New Music Friday releases cover every mood imaginable.

Let's get into it:

Ayra Starr – “Tornado”

Ayra rolls in hot on her highly anticipated third single of the year, and she delivers. She whines like a tornado, and the song spins you right into the eye of the storm; confident, sensual, and unapologetic.

The chorus hits with that infectious “Whine like tornado, whine like tornado” refrain, turning the dancefloor into a whirlwind. Lyrics like "I'm the price they wanna beat / If you’re starving, come and eat”, celebrate self-worth and allure without apology. She owns her power, invites the right energy, and keeps it playful.

Skillies, Shizzi, and Riotusa and the entire production crew layer shimmering synths, punchy bass, crisp drums, and subtle guitar that give it that polished Afrobeats glow with global appeal. Fola’s background vocals add a silky, harmonious lift in the outro is a pleasant surprise that elevates the whole experience. 

Sarkodie ft. Shatta Wale – “Everlasting”

These two Ghanaian heavyweights reunite and start with a bold statement that screams dominance. The track blends Sarkodie’s sharp rap bars with Shatta’s catchy, dancehall-infused hooks. Lyrics lean into bravado, success, and that “unstoppable” energy. It feels like a victory lap after years of separate paths and eventual reconciliation. The chemistry pops, and they trade energy like old friends who never lost the spark.

MOG Beatz keeps the production bouncy and radio-ready with heavy bass, rhythmic percussion, and upbeat tempos that nod to Ghanaian roots while pushing mainstream appeal.

Shatta handles the melodic chorus that pulls you in, while Sarkodie rides the verses with precision. It’s celebratory, fun, and built for clubs or cruising. 

Bloody Civilian – “Spacefuji” (feat. BOJ & Terry Apala)

After a long hiatus, Bloody Civilian blasts back with pure afro-futurism. “Spacefuji” takes you on a literal journey with voiceovers welcoming you to “the sounds of outer space.” She fuses house, Fuji influences, and Afro-fusion into something textured, innovative, and club-ready.

Produced by Ditwani, the song is expansive and layered, with driving rhythms, unconventional songwriting, and rhythmic energy that moves the body while sparking the mind.

BOJ brings melodic finesse, and Terry Apala adds that unmistakable Fuji flavor. It’s bold, genre-defying, and marks a strong return for one of Nigeria’s most distinctive voices.

Zaylevelten – “Go Again”

Zaylevelten comes back with his signature style and a double entendre that works perfectly.

On one level, it’s about wealth and hustle: “Yesterday we collect, but we go again / Today we go collect, and we go again / The money finna come, and finna go again.” On another, it’s playful and sensual about the girl who comes and goes again.

The chorus repeats that motivational “go again” hook that sticks in your head. Lyrics mix Pidgin, swagger, and street-smart confidence over bouncy, wavy production from RMJthewavdealer. It’s feel-good, motivational party music with depth if you listen close. 

Joey B ft. Bosom P-Yung – “Akosua Broni” (from Sexy Highlife EP)

This track (and the whole Sexy Highlife EP) nails its name.

Joey B reimagines highlife for a new generation, and “Akosua Broni” fits the sexy, vibrant vibe perfectly.

The fusion feels fresh yet rooted; highlife rhythms meet modern flair, with Bosom P-Yung’s delivery adding that charismatic edge. It’s an interesting sound that blends languages and energies in a way that just works.

The production grooves with lively percussion, melodic lines, and that feel-good highlife spirit that makes you sway.

Chances of hearing something this unique? Slim to none.

Hotkeed – “Dear God”

Hotkeed brings introspection with a twist that mirrors Dax’s classic with the same title but Hotkeed’s version stays uniquely his.

He questions God about both profound and ridiculous things, mixing serious reflection with lighter, unserious moments.

The contrast hits hard; his voice over piano and atmospheric production creates a thoughtful, almost vulnerable sound that contrasts the playful lyrics at times.

It feels contemplative and human, like a late-night conversation with the universe. The beats stay restrained to let the lyrics breathe, making it stand out as more introspective amid the upbeat drops this Friday.

From whirlwind dances to reflective moments and pure celebration, this New Music Friday lineup really has something for everyone.

Kick back, hit play, and let these tracks carry you through the weekend. 

Listen to the full playlist here:

And let us know, what’s your favorite track so far?

The post Ayra Starr, Zaylevelten, Bloody Civilian And More On New Music Friday appeared first on Afromixx.

From expansive, almost spiritual world-building to soft confessions and dancefloor instincts and anthems, this Friday's new music releases invite us to move, reflect, and feel.

M$NEY (Album) – Asake

Asake’s fourth studio album, M$NEY, opens with a live choral performance that immediately signals this is not going to be a straightforward Afrobeats record. The 13-track project, announced with a stone-engraved rollout and artwork by Iraqi-Dutch sculptor Arthar Jabar, blends spiritual introspection with streetwise swagger and global flair.

Standouts include pre-released singles like the hypnotic “Worship” with French electronic titan DJ Snake, where log drums meet futuristic drops in a prayer-like groove; the sultry “WHY LOVE”; the hard-edged “BADMAN GANGSTA” featuring French-Congolese rapper Tiakola; and the Amapiano-infused “ASAMBE” with South Africa’s Kabza De Small. Tracks like “Gratitude,” “Amen,” “Forgiveness,” and “Rora” pulse with Yoruba-inflected devotion—Asake’s signature blend of Fuji, fuji-fusion, and Afrobeats—while “Oba” reminds us of a familiar rhythm.

“Oba” samples Bobby Caldwell’s 1978 soul classic “What You Won’t Do for Love.” Caldwell’s original whispers soft devotion and fragile hesitation; Asake’s “Oba” surges forward with confidence, dancefloor energy, and Yoruba flair. It’s love re-energized: not whispered in shadows, but lived in motion.

The album’s themes orbit gratitude, worship, and resilience (“MCBH,” “SKILFUL,” “Wa”), painting Asake as both street prophet and global visionary. With signatures from producers like Magicsticks and Blaisebeatz, the emotional current is unmistakable. M$NEY isn’t just an album or wealth in the bank; it’s the richness of spirit, sound, and sway.

Come Kulosa – Shoday, Billionboi & Olamide

In what can only be described as a full-circle moment, rising star Shoday links with Olamide (the YBNL kingpin) and Billionboi for “Come Kulosa,” produced by the masterful Soundz. This smooth, infectious groove is all about letting go and surrendering to the rhythm.

Lyrics paint carefree joy: bumper-to-bumper energy, dance invites, and that irresistible Nigerian party spirit. Olamide’s verse elevates it with signature Baddo flair—playful, commanding, and effortlessly cool—while Shoday and Billionboi bring youthful hunger.

The writing “Come Kulosa” reflects a familiar Nigerian social setting: crowded spaces, music loud enough to dissolve hesitation, and the understanding that rhythm can carry interaction where words might fail.

It’s a summer-ready anthem for the streets, clubs, and anywhere the bass can shake the ground.

Honey, I Love You – Anendlessocean

In a sea of high-energy drops, Anendlessocean offers a gentle tide. This gospel-soul gem feels like a love letter to self, to the divine, or to a cherished one.

The production, led by Alli Hakeem Emmanuel Ayobami—who also handles the songwriting—alongside co-producer St. Oasis, is built on warmth. There are clear nods to Afro-fusion traditions reminiscent of Lagbaja, especially in the way the music prioritizes mood and musicality over urgency. Highlife influences sit subtly within the arrangement, adding familiarity without pulling the song into nostalgia.

Lyrics repeat like a soothing mantra: “Honey, I Love You… Hold me, Love me, Dream about me.” It’s intimate and healing, with listeners calling it “Jesus serenading His bride". Anendlessocean’s voice carries devotion and emotional depth, turning personal reflection into a universal balm. In a week of motion, this is the moment to pause, breathe, and let love wash over.

Odo Pa – Sarkodie ft. Kweku Flick

Ghanaian rap royalty Sarkodie joins forces with the versatile Kweku Flick on “Odo Pa” (Twi for “Good Love”). This emotional highlife-hip-hop blend dives deep into the kind of relationships that see hidden pain behind smiles, wipe tears, and offer real support. Lyrics hint at recognizing unspoken hurt (“Since when I saw you… you de wipe all the tears in your eyes”) while exploring healing, loyalty, and the redemptive power of genuine connection.

Their chemistry (honed from past collabs like “Messiah”) shines through, and “Odo Pa” reminds us that good love isn’t perfect; it’s present.

Stranger – Kuami Eugene ft. Gyakie

Kuami Eugene (the Rockstar of Ghanaian highlife) links with Gyakie on this flirty, feel-good cut from his Sweet Boy project. Eugene, who wrote and produced most of the EP himself, delivers smooth Afro-highlife fusion—catchy melodies, infectious energy, and that signature Ghanaian warmth.

Lyrics sparkle with playful attraction: “Hey stranger… your body pretty banging… your smile is contagious… If you’re in trouble, let me save you.” It’s light, confident, and irresistibly charming. A perfect palate cleanser: fun, flirty, and full of that contagious smile.

Nasty — FIMI

“Nasty” by Fimi is a direct, self-assured record dedicated to those who have gone from being the bottom of the joke to glowing up so insanely that everyone keeps staring up.

It thrives on attitude. Whispers of phrases like 'walk that talk ' feel conversational at points, almost like she’s speaking above the music and directly to the listener.

It's an anthem of confidence, attraction, and self-possession, exactly the kind of song you want to play whilst getting ready on a Friday night.

Together, these releases paint a portrait of African music in full bloom: Asake’s M$NEY as the spiritual and global anchor, the singles as intimate brushstrokes of joy, healing, reflection, and desire. Stream deeply, dance freely, and let these sounds carry you into the weekend and beyond. What a glorious time to listen.

LISTEN TO THE FULL NEW MUSIC FRIDAY PLAYLIST BELOW

The post Asake, Shoday, Sarkodie & More on New Music Friday appeared first on Afromixx.

Young Jonn ft. Asake – Che Che

Young Jonn links up with Asake for “Che Che,” an uptempo, high-energy banger that’s already shaping up to be a contender for song of the summer. The track radiates unbothered confidence and playful bravado, with both artists bringing their A-game to a bass-heavy, percussive beat laced with subtle Amapiano textures.

Asake brings his magnetic vocal stylings, sliding in effortlessly with a hypnotic flow that blends Yoruba lyricism with streetwise charm. His cadence—part chant, part melody—acts like an addictive hook in itself, while Young Jonn delivers slick lines like “I look fly, I dey smell nice, everything JeJe,” summing up the vibe in one self-assured bar.

Produced by Young Jonn himself alongside Jaytunes, "Che Che" is a certified party anthem positioned to be a cultural moment. It follows the success of his February single, “Only Fans” and keeps the momentum going after 'Jiggy Forever', the singer’s 16-track debut album, which has racked up over 600 million streams globally. With lyrics like “deliver me from my frenemies,” "Che Che" taps into both playful swagger and subtle commentary, offering a street-leaning record that feels both fresh and familiar.

Crayon – Roju

Crayon steps into lover-boy mode with “Roju”, a sweet, rhythm-laced serenade that showcases his continued growth as a melody-first hitmaker. Over upbeat percussion and vibrant synth arrangements, he crafts a track that's as perfect for late-night drives as it is for spinning on repeat at a house party.

Produced by John P, the track finds Crayon yearning for emotional depth and connection: “I will never ever ever roju roju / For you soul, imma sinner man.” It’s a bold promise, wrapped in lush harmonies and that signature Crayon bounce. The production keeps things light and infectious, but the heart of the song is in the vulnerability he wears so confidently on his sleeve, leaning into his strengths.

"Roju" builds off the momentum of ‘Bodycon’, a sultry Afropop record released just weeks prior, and sets the tone for Crayon’s upcoming project. Having carved out his lane since 'Cray Cray' in 2019, the Mavin/Blowtime artist now sits confidently among Afropop’s new wave, balancing romantic themes with mass appeal. And with “Roju”, he offers listeners just a taste of that.

BNXN ft. FOLA – Very Soon

BNXN continues his romantically melancholic run with “Very Soon”, a heart-tugging collaboration with rising star FOLA. Produced by Beatz Vampire Craze, the track weaves soulful R&B textures into a fluid Afrobeats groove, setting the stage for a vulnerable reflection on love, growth, and delayed promises.

Opening with BNXN’s signature emotional drawl, the song finds him expressing devotion despite imperfections: “Ero bi mase para o je kin sun / Very very soon I’ll do it better and I promise you.” It’s an ode to patience, the kind needed to love someone who’s still finding their way. FOLA complements the sentiment with a silky, expressive verse that adds emotional depth without overcomplicating the vibe.

"Very Soon" marks the fourth single from BNXN’s forthcoming 16-track ‘CAPTAIN’ album, following “Cutesy”, “Phenomena”, and “Fi Kan We Kan” with Rema. The track also builds on BNXN and FOLA’s growing musical chemistry, first teased on the Alone remix. Together, they strike a balance of raw emotion and sonic finesse, making “Very Soon” one of the most soulfully potent releases this cycle.

Simi & Kizz Daniel – Day By Day

Two of Nigeria’s most consistent vocalists join forces for “Day By Day,” a heartfelt ballad that’s as soulful as it is soothing. Produced by AYK Beats, the track finds Simi and Kizz Daniel trading verses on love, patience, and emotional rhythm.

Simi’s voice floats with her usual clarity, tender but assertive, as she sings about growth and vulnerability in relationships. Kizz Daniel complements her beautifully, his honeyed tone wrapping around words like “every little step wey we dey take na divine.”

What makes “Day By Day” stand out is the vocal synergy wrapped around subtle honesty. Simi and Kizz Daniel are artistes that have largely built careers on love songs, yet on “Day By Day” they sound more introspective than romantic, like two people doing the hard, necessary work required to build something real and, of course, lasting.

Wizard Chan – OLIVER

There’s a primal power in Wizard Chan’s voice, and “OLIVER” uses it to full effect. Opening with tribal drums and a folk-meets-afrobeats arrangement, the song is both a spiritual plea and a philosophical musing.

Chan’s lyrics come from a place of searching: “Oliver twist, I’m asking for more / But life no be beans, e dey test your core." It’s the language of a man who’s walked the rough road and now pauses to ask, what next? The production, helmed by Pumba Mix, is sweeping, cinematic even, with vocal chants that swell like an inner storm. With Wizard Chan riding it with sharp delivery, painting his struggles and ambition in vibrant detail. “OLIVER” by Wizard Chan is street poetry, distilled and recharged.

Sarkodie ft. Jay Bahd & Kwaku DMC – HUSTLERS DREAM

Veteran Ghanaian rapper Sarkodie taps into Ghana’s drill-powered youth for Hustlers Dream, roping in Jay Bahd and Kwaku DMC for a no-holds-barred rap cypher. Produced by MOG Beatz, the track crackles with urgency and intent. It’s an anthem purposed for those grinding against the odds, weaving lyrical dexterity with lived experience.
Sarkodie’s verse is expectedly crisp and commanding, but it’s the newer voices, Bahd and DMC, who bring street-edge flair and a refreshing take. Their hunger is palpable, and their delivery is razor-sharp.

LISTEN TO THE FULL NEW MUSIC FRIDAY PLAYLIST BELOW

The post Young Jonn, Simi, Bnxn and Others on New Music Friday appeared first on Afromixx.

Jailer - Sarkodie, Victony

In recent years, Sarkodie has continuously tapped into the brilliance of Afrobeats artists in Nigeria with terrific hooks for his equally hard-hitting rap bars. Intersecting with Afro-R&B artists, Sarkodie has been able to express himself on the melodies of these artists. From Non-Living Thing with Oxlade to Till We Die with Ruger, Sarkodie has built a musical world that centres on heartbreak and love. Unsurprisingly, Jailer with Victony adds another notch on Sarkodie’s belt.

Bus Stop - TAR1Q, Young Jonn

Within 24 hours of the release of his second EP, TARIQ's "Okada Airlines" started at No. 12 on the Nigerian Apple Music Albums Chart and rose to No. 9. The young artist signed to Chocolate City Label went 8 for 8 with his latest EP, which featured Young Jonn, Khaid, Killa, and Bola BMH. TARIQ’s ability to create surreal, infectious melodies of high replay value positions him for many milestones in the Nigerian music scene and beyond. Bus Stop with Young Jonn is one of the many confirmations from the EP. Other standout tracks from the EP include Living Thing, Zuko, Jigga, and Oyi Eh.

Goosebumps - Qing Madi

Armed with hit songs like American Love, Ole featuring BNXN, and Vision, just to name a few, Qing Madi continues to impress and make grand musical strides for a rising star. In preparation for her debut album, Qing Madi shares a lead single title, ‘Goosebumps’. Known for her relatable lyrics and clean, clear vocals, her new single Goosebumps reflects these traits and showcases Qing Madi’s prowess to tell love stories in the form of beautiful music. 

KUKU GOOGLE AM - 2Baba

Afrobeats legend 2baba is said to be working on a last record, possibly his last, that will bid farewell to the music industry. With his new single, which will most likely be included on his upcoming album, 2Baba taps into one of his many ranges as an astonishingly creative artist. On his new single "KUKU GOOGLE AM," 2Baba expresses a variety of controversial narratives fuelled by comparisons in the music, influencing, humorous, and entertainment industry as a whole. Like a Fela Kuti performance, each of 2Baba's lyrics is met with a callback of “KUKU GOOGLE AM”. 

Saint Tropez, Juls, Victony

Weeks after teasing “Saint Tropez” on his social media pages, the track is finally released on DSPs alongside 17 other songs off Juls fourth studio album, “Peace and Love." If you’re familiar enough with Juls work as a producer, you can tell from the shakes and Caribbean-like percussions a song he worked on. And on this sonic experience, Victony thrives, conveying a lustful yearning for a romantic subject with innuendos and harmonious hints. 

Rebel Music - Black Sherif 

Clearly, Black Sherif is in album mode for his highly anticipated sophomore album, “Iron Boy." And to further build anticipation, he has released a new single title, “Rebel Music," a typically intense music that Black Sherif says he’d be selecting as a soundtrack for judgement day if he was ever made to choose. On Rebel Music, Black Sherif bares his life’s experiences and journey in a visceral and gritty manner that pulls a listener into not just his music but the story. 

Mr. Heartbreaker - Rose May Alaba, Odumodublvck 

Born and raised in Vienna, Austria, to a Nigerian father, Rose Mary Alaba’s R&B record “Mr Heartbreaker” intersects with ODUMODUBLVCK’s gritty and intense delivery of heartbreak from their point of view. While Rose’s verse chronicles a sad heartbreak story, ODUMODUBLVCK’s is more crude and, to an extent, hilarious. 

Lonely - Joshua Baraka

Ugandan new generation artist Joshua Baraka delivers yet another sublime piece of music to listeners. This comes five months after he released the deluxe version of his 2023 studio EP, “Growing Pains." In yet another tale of heartbreak, Joshua Baraka poured his tender vocals on plucky guitars and consistent kicks.

The post Sarkodie, TAR1Q, Qing Madi, and Black Sherif on This Week’s New Music Friday appeared first on Afromixx.