Tay Iwar’s “MERCY PLEASE” is the third track and lead single from the 5-track ‘WONDERFUL’ EP. The record opens with a sultry guitar sample before unfolding into gently pulsing Afrobeats rhythms, with Tay’s vocal performance gliding front and centre. The single is a timely reminder of the multiple Grammy-nominated artist’s natural talent as he crafts a tribute to the object of his affections. On the track, Tay Iwar pleads, “I need an angel”, while eastern-flavoured strings weave in and out, adding smoky, grand textures to form a sound that’s both exotic and creatively expansive—a marker of his forthcoming body of work.

Tay Iwar’s dedication to top-tier collaborations and musical expression has established him as a leading figure in the African art renaissance. From his early work with Soulection to his breakthrough feature on Wizkid’s ‘Made In Lagos’, his collaborations with the likes of Dave, Pa Salieu, and Juls highlight his organic ties with celebrated UK artists. Meanwhile, his songwriting and production credits for Burna Boy, Camila Cabello, and Chris Brown have earned him 4x GRAMMY nominations, 3x UK No.1s, and well over 100M streams—securing his place as a multi-hyphenate talent operating at the highest creative levels.

With the title track of last year’s ‘Reflection Station’ debuting on the US Billboard Afrobeats Chart and a standout performance at Little Simz’s curated Meltdown Festival this year, 2025 is shaping up to be another milestone year for a serious talent breaking further into global consciousness.

MERCY PLEASE is streaming on all platforms now

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THE MACHINE IS COMING – ODUMODUBLVCK

Nigerian rap sensation ODUMODUBLVCK has unleashed a surprise mixtape, ‘THE MACHINE IS COMING‘ —a 16-track project that further showcases his dynamic artistry and reinforces his reputation as one of the most innovative voices in Nigeria’s rap scene. Arriving just in time for his scheduled performance at The Headies, Nigeria’s premier music awards, the mixtape marks a defining moment in his fast-rising career.

THE MACHINE IS COMING thrives on sonic unpredictability. ODUMODUBLVCK effortlessly blends Afro-fusion, hip-hop, and his signature Okporoko Rhythms—a unique fusion of highlife melodies with drill and grime elements. Across its 41-minute runtime, the mixtape moves seamlessly between gritty street anthems and introspective reflections, ensuring a compelling listening experience with each play.

The 16-track project boasts a heavyweight lineup of guest appearances, featuring some of today’s most relevant artists, including Victony, Shallipopi, BOJ, Rondodasosa, Vector, Falz, Ajebo Hustlers, and Afroselecta-BBK, among others. These collaborations amplify the project’s expansive vision, with each artist adding their own flair. Tracks like Pity This Boy featuring Victony, which had already gained traction prior to the tape’s release, showcase ODUMODUBLVCK’s ability to craft emotionally charged anthems. Other standout collaborations include Juju with Smur Lee and Shallipopi, as well as the Ramadan Remix featuring Tolibian and BOJ, both of which were fan favorites even before finding a home on this project.

Meanwhile, solo cuts like “Wage War”, “Go Report”, and “Kylian” underline ODUMODUBLVCK’s commanding presence, proving he doesn’t need features to deliver hard-hitting verses over pulsating beats.

Beyond its immediate impact, ‘THE MACHINE IS COMING’ serves as a prelude to his forthcoming album, ‘INDUSTRY MACHINE‘, which he has been teasing since the start of 2025. Described as an “appetizer,” the mixtape offers a glimpse of the raw energy and boundary-pushing sound that fans can expect from his full-length project.

IRON BOY – BLACK SHERIF

Ghanaian powerhouse Black Sherif returns with his deeply personal sophomore album, ‘Iron Boy‘—a 15-track odyssey that balances raw intensity with profound introspection. Fusing elements of hip-hop and Afrobeats, the album features standout collaborations with Nigerian heavyweights Fireboy DML and Seyi Vibez, adding layers of sonic depth to his already compelling storytelling.

At its core, ‘Iron Boy’ is an exploration of resilience—an anthem for those navigating life’s hardships and emerging stronger. Tracks like “The Victory Song” and “So It Goes” echo themes of perseverance, capturing the spirit of overcoming adversity through sheer determination.

Speaking on the album’s essence, Black Sherif describes it as a soundtrack for “anyone carving their own path, embracing their truth, and defying the odds.” He reinforced this message in a post on his X (formerly Twitter) account, writing: “Do you know what it means to be a Gospel Artist with a Popstar Destiny?”—a statement that hints at the album’s deeply spiritual undertones.

With Iron Boy, Black Sherif once again proves that his music is more than just sound—it’s an experience, a movement, and a testimony of survival against all odds.

REFLECTION STATION – TAY IWAR

Tay Iwar’s first single of the year, “Bad Belle,” released three New Music Fridays ago, came alongside the announcement of an EP titled ‘Reflection Station’, which arrived today, April 4th. The five-track EP is deeply introspective, consciously revisiting the past and drawing from its influence to craft melodies that resonate with profound musings on healing, resilience, mercy, and love. According to Tay Iwar via Instagram, ‘Reflection Station’ is “a checkpoint for motion, memory, mercy. One borrowed spirit from Zule Zoo, and turned resistance into rhythm. This is what healing sounds like when it doesn’t ask for permission. Each track holds a mirror—to feel, to remember, to float, to rise, to survive. A reminder to move with purpose. I hope you let it find you.”

In Tay Iwar’s world of alternative R&B and soul music, his five-track EP soothes the listener, starting with the opener and title track, ‘Reflection Station‘, where he speaks on resilience and the need to keep going until the desired result is actualised. On the song, he interpolates 2Baba’s ‘4 Instance’, borrowing its rhythm: “For instance, say I be the one them no give chance / Say I be the one wey dey make plans / I still dey maintain my own stance.” The 14-minute EP takes the listener through a relatable journey of struggle and triumph, drawing inspiration from Zule Zoo’s “Bad Belle“ and closing with the poignant Survival, where he reflects on his coming-of-age experiences. With Tay Iwar himself steering the production, the EP is refined in sound and texture, making for a 14-minute listening session worth looping.

OFA: DELUXE EDITION – OXLADE

In an exciting turn of events, Oxlade announced the deluxe edition of his debut album, Oxlade From Africa (OFA), released in September 2024, through a short, creative video on his socials. In the video, Oxlade is seen having a conversation with himself about why a deluxe version was necessary instead of saving the songs for another project, which would typically be a wise decision. However, his other self insists that these songs belong to this era—an era about Oxlade. OFA, which has seen significant commercial success, particularly with “OLOLUFE“ featuring Ghanaian rap legend Sarkodie, now includes four additional tracks—”DOINGZ“, “OMALICHA“, “SHO MI“, and “VANITI“—bringing ‘OFA: Deluxe Edition‘ to life with no guest features.

The deluxe opens with the masterfully crafted shakes and groovy log drums of “DOINGZ“, where Oxlade desperately seeks the love and attention of his muse, offering financial and material excesses in return. It flows into “OMALICHA“, enriched by vibrant highlife-inspired guitar riffs on a mid-tempo production. Here, Oxlade flexes his silky vocals, pleading for love and expressing how her absence might drive him to the brink. “SHO MI” takes a more sober and philosophical approach, with Oxlade reflecting on life’s musings and his gratitude for divine intervention. Wrapping up the now 20-track album with “VANITI“, produced by Magicsticks, Oxlade closes on an introspective note, sharing wisdom passed down from his grandmother: “Asan lasan laye.”

MOST WANTED – ZINOLEESKY

In a scene filled with numerous talents, Zinoleesky’s distinct voice and technical delivery set him apart. At the start of the year, Zinoleesky positioned himself in a more active mode following a controversial incident involving his former, now deceased, labelmate Mohbad and his record label boss, Naira Marley. He announced his debut album, Gen Z, with a short trailer video, set for release on an undisclosed date in April. In anticipation of his forthcoming studio album, Zinoleesky has now released his first single of 2025, ‘Most Wanted’, produced by frequent collaborator Niphkeys.

On the track, Zinoleesky’s vocals and execution shine as the highlight. Niphkeys employs log drums in a calm and steady manner, allowing Zinoleesky’s cadence to glide smoothly over the production. The song reaffirms his ability to blend melody and introspection while maintaining his signature street-savvy edge.

REASON 2 JAPA – MAYORKUN

With the announcement of his third studio album, ‘Still The Mayor’, set to drop in 27 days, Mayorkun has released a new single ahead of the pivotal moment. ‘Reason 2 Japa’ follows his last single, “Innocent“, released in November 2024 and featuring Fireboy DML—both serving as lead singles for the forthcoming album.

With ‘Still The Mayor‘ approaching, Mayorkun takes a more retrospective approach to ‘Reason 2 Japa‘, blending log drums with a contemporary feel that immerses listeners in both nostalgia and modern-day Afrobeats. On the track, Mayorkun reaffirms why he is still indeed “The Mayor of Lagos (TMOL)“, boasting an impressive track record of hits and number-one records. Despite its groovy nature, ‘Reason 2 Japa‘ touches on serious themes, including the state of the economy and how it has driven not just him but many of his compatriots to seek a better standard of living. He also references the few things he keeps his mind off as he navigates these realities, making for a track that is both engaging and reflective.

LISTEN TO THE FULL NEW MUSIC FRIDAY PLAYLIST BELOW

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M.anifest — New Road & Guava Trees

Award-winning Ghanaian rapper and one of Africa’s most forward-thinking hip-hop artists, M.anifest, has officially unveiled his highly anticipated sixth studio album, New Road & Guava Trees. Released under the esteemed hip-hop label Mass Appeal, the album is a masterclass in genre fusion, blending hip-hop, Afrobeats, and Highlife with intricate storytelling and immersive soundscapes.  

New Road & Guava Trees boasts an impressive lineup of collaborators, including Flea of the Red Hot Chili Peppers, Nigerian Highlife duo The Cavemen, Afropop star King Promise, South African lyricist A-Reece, and Bien of the Kenyan band Sauti Sol.

The album’s title carries both personal and symbolic weight, rooted in M.anifest’s childhood in Madina, Ghana. New Road & Guava Trees is about embracing “new beginnings,” he explains. “I grew up in a part of Madina called New Road, where we had a guava tree that represented growth and fresh starts. This record embodies that journey—overcoming obstacles to reap the fruits of one’s labor.”

Spanning recording sessions in Accra, Seattle, and Los Angeles, the album is the culmination of nearly two years of creative exploration, weaving together diverse influences into a cohesive and profound body of work. 

Davido — Be There Still

As he gears up for the release of his fifth studio album, 5ive, Davido returns with Be There Still, the third lead single from the project, set to drop on April 18. After teasing the song with a calculated rollout, the Nigerian superstar delivers yet another amapiano-infused track, following in the rhythmic footsteps of his previous releases, Awuke and Funds’.

With three singles already out, Davido’s sonic direction for 5ive is becoming clearer—it’s shaping up to be an amapiano-driven album. Staying true to his signature formula of infectious melodies and anthemic hooks, Be There Still finds him reflecting on his longevity in the music industry. He acknowledges the years he’s put in and asserts his intent to remain a dominant force.  

With over a decade at the pinnacle of Nigerian music, Davido radiates a hunger that suggests he’s far from done. On Be There Still he makes one thing certain—his journey is far from over, and there’s still much to achieve.

Ruger — Toro

Ruger kicks off the countdown to his sophomore album with an electrifying performance of his latest single, Toro, on A COLORS SHOW. Commanding the mic with his signature Afro-dancehall energy, he delivers a performance that is as magnetic as it is confident, offering a glimpse of what’s to come from his upcoming project, ‘Blown Boy Ru’.  

Produced by longtime collaborator Kukbeatz, Toro seamlessly blends infectious rhythms with Ruger’s smooth vocal delivery, further cementing his reputation as one of Afrobeats’ most dynamic hitmakers. The song weaves a tale of romance with his signature playboy edge, balancing vulnerability with swagger. In lyrics like, “Call me a devil but there’s no angel in this world, truly I vex you, try forgive me just because,” Ruger plays up his bad-boy persona while subtly seeking grace—a dynamic he’s mastered over time.  

Kukbeatz’s production amplifies this duality, layering bouncy percussion with melodic undertones, ensuring Toro remains both danceable and emotionally charged. The song marks a crucial moment in Ruger’s career, building momentum for Blown Boy Ru, slated for release in late 2025.  

Coming off the success of his 2023 debut album, RU The World, which featured the smash hit Asiwaju (now surpassing 150 million Spotify streams), Ruger continues to push the boundaries of his sound. Since bursting onto the scene under Jonzing World in 2021 and launching his own Blown Boy Entertainment imprint in 2024, he has carved out a distinct lane, fusing Afrobeats vibrancy with dancehall grit.  

His COLORS performance captures him in his rawest form—stripped of distractions, exuding effortless charisma.

Wizard Chan — FLAKO (feat. ODUMODUBLVCK)

The Nigerian music scene continues to thrive, and Wizard Chan is adding to its brilliance with his latest single, FLAKO, a high-energy collaboration with ODUMODUBLVCK. Produced by Mr Soul, the track bridges their contrasting styles, merging Wizard Chan’s soulful finesse with ODUMODUBLVCK’s relentless intensity. The result? A bouncy, feel-good anthem that resonates with both meaning and groove.  

FLAKO opens with Wizard Chan’s sultry vocals, a staple of his reggae-infused Afro-fusion sound. Known for his ability to fuse futuristic elements with traditional roots, he sets the stage with introspective yet uplifting lyrics. His delivery carries an effortless warmth, drawing listeners in with his heartfelt storytelling.  

Then, ODUMODUBLVCK storms in, injecting the song with his signature “Okporoko Rhythms”, a fusion of hip-hop, grime, drill, and Afro-pop. His fiery verse contrasts Wizard Chan’s laid-back charm, creating an electrifying push-and-pull dynamic. His punchy lyricism crackles with streetwise swagger, adding an unpredictable and exhilarating edge to the track.  

The production, helmed by Mr Soul, masterfully blends reggae undertones with hip-hop’s crisp percussion, crafting a soundscape that is both danceable and rich in texture. The track balances playfulness with depth, making it an irresistible listen.  

Marking Wizard Chan’s first release of 2025, FLAKO teases what’s to come from his forthcoming album, expected later this year. Following the success of his 2024 EP, The Messenger—which housed introspective gems like ‘Mr Sailor Man’—this single signals artistic evolution, proving he’s unafraid to expand his sound. 

Bad Belle — Tay Iwar

Tay Iwar, the Nigerian singer, songwriter, and producer renowned for his vibrant blend of R&B and Afro-fusion, has unveiled his latest single, Bad Belle, marking his first release of 2025. This track follows his 2024 collaborations, including the second installment of the Gold II EP with Le Mav and the two-pack single Patience & Heart/In Your Absence.

Bad Belle was released unexpectedly, with minimal promotion, yet it has swiftly captivated listeners across streaming platforms. The song spans approximately three minutes, during which Tay Iwar’s meticulous and unique vocals take center stage, delivering a performance that is both soulful and compelling.

The term Bad Belle is Nigerian Pidgin English, often used to describe envy or ill will. In this track, Tay Iwar explores themes of jealousy and negativity, weaving them into a narrative that resonates with authenticity and depth. His ability to infuse personal experiences into his music allows listeners to connect on a profound level, making Bad Belle a testament to his storytelling prowess.

LISTEN TO Davido, M.anifest, Ruger and Others on New Music Friday

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Tay Iwar is known for his introspective and genre-fluid approach blending themes of love, healing, and emotional complexity—a signature of his sound.

As he ventures into the last stretch of 2024, fans can anticipate from the Nigerian R&B singer and songwriter the soulful tenor and lush production that characterize Tay’s work. 

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As with previous music Fridays, we’ll serve as a music compass, pointing you in the direction of wonderful music.

Taves – Are you listening?

Some consider Taves to be a BNXN replica. While this may not be exactly accurate, it is quite clear that Taves’ music is influenced by Bnxn’s sound. However, he combines the Bnxn influence with personal emotions and bits of melancholy, which gives a unique expression to his sound. With “Are you listening?” Taves aims to carve his own path in the Afro-R&B space with a sound that is unique to him. And he does so successfully on this EP.

Standout tracks: Bad Romance, Enchanté, In the city, a million things, CWT, Apology.

Rema – HEIS

On his sophomore album, the global star dares conventional Afro-Pop sounds and explores a new stimulating sound that the majority are unacquainted with. At the HEIS listening party on Wednesday night, he claimed he’ll be the demise of Amapiano, a sound that originated in South Africa and has since dominated the Nigerian music landscape. Although a daring statement, he has already begun the quest with his fun sophomore project.

Standout tracks: AZAMAN, HEIS, NOW I KNOW, MARCH AM, YAYO, and OZEBA.

Tay Iwar X Le Mav – Gold II

The pair returns with a continued drive to etch their art on the minds of listeners. Harnessed with their innovative melodies, they offer fans the long-awaited Gold II. However, GOLD II is sonically more varied than GOLD I, as log drums find their way into the production of some of the tracks. Refuse to be dismayed; Tay Iwar makes it all beautiful with his vocal excellence. 

Standout tracks: Golden Girl, Simple Things, Trials and tribulations.

Maleek Berry – Secrets

Icon Maleek Berry shared a snippet of “Secrets” with fans earlier this week, and as promised, it was available on streaming platforms at midnight today. With “Secrets”, the Eko Miami crooner sticks to his signature sound and proves to listeners he’s still got the juice. 

DJ YK Mule – Open it

Trench-centric DJ YK Mule enlists Tekno for a few verses. The chorus interpolates the DJ’s viral oblee, a song that’s had the streets in an unhealthy chokehold for sometime. With Tekno’s verse, you need not wait until party time to listen to this one. However, be sure it’s a space where dancing is allowed.

Kemena X WeTalkSound – Whole Wide World 

Kemena, in partnership with WeTalkSound, treats fans to a two-track project. For those who enjoy relaxing music, give this one a listen.

Seyi Vibes- Loseyi Professor

Seyi Vibes revealed the unexpected release of his project, which was supposed to launch next week, just as today’s new music Friday was wrapping up. Seyi Vibes announced ‘Loseyi Professor’ on his social media pages, and captioned “Fvck it!” Could not wait much longer! ‘LOSEYI PROFESSOR‘ is now available!!” Six of the EP’s seven tracks were named after major cities, including Lagos, Doha, Santorini, Abu Dhabi, and Manchester, with the outro named after renowned physicist Albert Einstein. On “Loseyi Professor,” Seyi Vibes becomes fond of the guitar and creates music around it. 

Standout tracks include: Lagos, Doha, Santorini, and Manchester.

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With Gold II set to explore a wide range of themes, romance undoubtedly tops the list. Le Mav is certainly excited for the new project. He revealed on X that Gold II is for real lovers, and attached a photo of an unreleased Tay Iwar single titled “Rock Steady,”  which may make it to the Gold II project track list. 

Although the knowledge of a sibling project has been known to fans for months now, the release of the lead single “Feels” officially initiated the rollout process for Gold II. As Tay Iwar shared the listening link to “Feels,” he disclosed Gold II was coming to fans on the 12th of July. Listeners can rest confident that “Feels” is only a glimpse inside the magical world of what Tay Iwar and Le Mav will offer on Gold II. That much, we know.

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