Browsing Tag

afrobeat

Beasts of No Nation Spoke Their Vibrational Truth in AfroFusion Firestorm ‘You Can’t Talk in My Language’

Posted on 30 June 2025

If Avery Jacob’s vibe could be weaponised, it would be stronger than a nuclear threat; thankfully, he’s all about using his infectious charisma to alchemise rhythms into embodiments of pure upraising resonance.

If pictures can speak a thousand words, You Can’t Talk in My Language should be considered a literary masterpiece for the way it conveys what it means to live with pride and the kind of positive defiance that refuses to dilute the aura of your being to be easily transcribed by people who aren’t on your wavelength. It isn’t about exclusion; it is about protecting enlightened vibration.

If you love Melt Yourself Down and how their sax redefines the African funk lines, every part of your anatomy will become a soft spot for Beasts of No Nation. I know I can’t be the only one who feels their soul expand in the presence of Jacob. With his new collective, his energy is more powerful than ever.

Of course, no review of ‘You Can’t Talk in My Language’ would be complete without mention of the ludicrously endearing music video, which sees a Martian learning how to vibe with the collective. To be fair, he’d probably have more of a chance of fitting in than most of the people in society who make radiating light seem like an idiosyncratic oddity.

Denver’s Beasts of No Nation, a ten-piece AfroFusion collective led by visionary artist Avery Jacob, fuse Afrobeat, hip-hop, jazz, soul, and rock into a sound that channels the urgency of protest with the power of groove. Their electrifying live shows have already built a reputation for creating immersive experiences rooted in Pan-African pride and spiritual resistance. Their debut album, Welcome 2 ViBERiA, is set for release in the autumn and promises to awaken, move, and remind listeners to hold onto their own spark.

You Can’t Talk in My Language is now available on all major streaming platforms via this link.

Review by Amelia Vandergast

Maye & Trunkie Simmered Afro-Fusion Heat into Hypnotic Sensuality with ‘Abena’

Posted on 16 June 2025

We’ve already seen summers of love in 1967; in 2025, Maye and Trunkie have joined forces to spark a summer of pure sensuality through their latest aphrodisically affecting release, Abena, which lets listeners ride the waves of the Afro beats that ebb and flow as naturalistically as the ocean laps the shore. But there’s far more than just oceanic bliss on offer here; vibrance finds friction with lush layers of quiescence, creating a track that enlivens as much as it beds you down into the sheets of its salacious soul. With tranquillity and fervent passion in a paradoxical equilibrium, the two icons in their own right allowed their sonic signatures to ignite an inferno of summer heat.

The name Abena doesn’t fall short on cultural gravity either. It draws from Akan tradition, gifting the title a sense of purpose and rooted pride, especially as it serves as a nod to Trunkie’s Ghanaian ties. While the lyricism simmers with the essence of magnetic attraction, the instrumental arrangement sways between clubland seduction and late-night introspection. Afro-fusion and romantic pop are at the helm, but neither artist leans on formula or genre convention to carry their weight.

Though Maye is still early in his sonic voyage, the decision to collaborate with Trunkie, whose accolades range from BBC 1Xtra praise to iTunes chart climbs, proves to be more than a savvy career move. It’s a testament to shared vision and innate synergy, captured effortlessly on this debut collaboration. While you wait for the world to catch on to how phenomenal Maye and Trunkie are in their ability to render the senses and soul hypnotised, find pride in your discovery of one of the most complementary collaborations of 2025.

Abena is now available on all major streaming platforms, including Spotify. 

– Review by Amelia Vandergast

Obeena Poured Atomic Soul into Afrobeat Pop Ecstasy in ‘All the Way’

Posted on 12 May 2025

With luxe licks that gravitate right towards your soul and beats that fire up the rhythmic pulses within a seraphically tropic production, Obeena went beyond ticking all the right Afrobeat pop boxes with All the Way. The Nigerian-born, UK-based artist known as Afro-Remedy is revered for his ability to command culture through rhythm. In All the Way, he brings his signature fusion of traditional African grooves and modern production to a fever pitch of feel-good ecstasy that reverberates with pure spirit.

When you consider his smoother-than-any-metaphor-could-possibly-allude-to vocals, it’s clear he’s got what it takes to rise all the way to the top without friction. The single transcends the typical pop-tinged euphoria and taps into something deeper — something medicinal. With melodies that hit as much as they heal and tones that simmer as much as they soothe, Obeena has contemporary Afro fusion down to a fine art.

All the Way resonates on an atomic level; it’s a voltage surge of vibes, delivered through each carefully crafted cadence and sun-kissed melodic loop.

With a touring history that’s lit up stages from Brixton to Luton to Barking and a spot on Fido’s Live in Luton tour, Obeena is already spreading sonic remedy across the UK. Consider a ticket to his shows as a perscription of naturally derived serotonin.

All the Way is now available to stream on all major platforms, including Spotify.

Review by Amelia Vandergast

Perenna King Fires Shots at the Elite with ‘Billionaire’

Posted on 21 March 2025

Perenna King isn’t here to play nice with the 1%. Billionaire is a slick, sultry rejection of the pop mould, drenched in bass-heavy afrobeat rhythms that instantly set the NYC singer-songwriter apart. With rap verses that cut through with razor-sharp conviction, she delivers a scathing critique of the ultra-wealthy, making it impossible not to get caught up in the hype of this protest anthem.

In a world where Elon Musk is unavoidable and the rich-poor divide stretches further by the day, King amplifies the frustrations of those grinding to get by, only to realise the system was rigged against them from the start. The track doesn’t just highlight the disparity—it vindicates the ones left fighting for scraps while the billionaires hoard power, influence, and entire economies.

Raised on a fusion of classic rock and literature, King has always had a flair for injecting her music with theatrical drama, but Billionaire isn’t just spectacle—it’s a battle cry. Her latest tour de force breathes fresh air into a genre often too cautious to take a stand. The message is as biting as the beat is infectious, proving that resistance isn’t futile.

Billionaire is now available on all major streaming platforms, including Spotify.

Review by Amelia Vandergast

TIGXA & VICA Unleash a Bass-Heavy Blitzkrieg with ‘Loco Motion #V01’

Posted on 20 March 2025

The stormer of an anthemic electro beat anthem, Loco Motion #V01’, born through the collaboration between TIGXA and VICA, allows two sonic worlds to collide with a force that would make Chase & Status stutter in inadequacy in their studio.

With beats strong enough to summon a dub demon and vocals carrying a cheeky infectious energy, the relentless earworm could make even the most reserved shed their inhibitions on the dancefloor. This is more than a collaboration—it’s a statement that these two are storming to the front of the drum and bass scene, smashing the monocultural mould in the process.

VICA channels sharp instincts and an ear for rhythm into every beat, bringing a presence as sharp as the production. With a Caribbean-rooted style that shifts as effortlessly as their movements, there’s a knowing precision behind every delivery. Paired with TIGXA—the evolving sonic universe of Ben Caesar, where every drop expands a multi-genre narrative—this track lands with undeniable weight, making it clear that their creative force isn’t slowing down any time soon.

From the moment the bass drops, there’s no escaping the gravitational pull of this track. The pulsating percussion, jagged synths, and commanding vocal presence turn it into an electrified adrenaline shot straight to the veins of the underground scene. The dancefloor won’t be the same once this one hits.

‘Loco Motion #V01’ is available now on all major streaming platforms, including Spotify. 

Review by Amelia Vandergast

DAP The Contract & Suté Iwar Turn Up the Heat with the Sun-Soaked Rhythms of ‘Fàájì’

Posted on 3 March 2025

With the single, Fàájì, DAP The Contract and Suté Iwar locked into an up-tempo groove that pulses with rhythm-led euphoria, lifting you so high you’ll be waiting for the comedown.

Lauded by just about everyone that matters, DAP The Contract exudes the same stylistically luxe enlivening energy as Pharrell Williams as he finds vibe-heavy intersections between hip-hop and sun-bleached Afrobeat grooves, resulting in a sound that could light up dancehalls and dominate the streets.

DAP’s journey has never followed a straight line. From Lagos to London, from Berklee to Columbia Law School, he’s discovered a space where classical training meets raw creative instinct. Nine solo projects deep and fresh off performances alongside Burna Boy, Skepta, and Rema, he leans into his Nigerian roots on Fàájì, weaving highlife and Afrobeat elements into his ever-evolving sound.

There’s no understating the feel-good appeal that cascades straight through your speakers into your rhythmic pulses. Despite the electronic production, there’s something fundamentally human with the silky vocals sliding over the mix and taking reigns of the earworm you’ll pray won’t ever leave. DAP carries the same effortlessly stylish energy as Pharrell Williams, making every moment of the track feel alive, electrified, and impossible to resist.

With over 4.5 million streams and 1.5 million video views, DAP The Contract isn’t just gaining traction—he’s taking over, one infectious production at a time.

Fàájì is now available on all major streaming platforms via this link.

Review by Amelia Vandergast

Alana Sukul is riding high on soul-soaked rhythms in her dancehall RnB earworm, Mhm Yeah?

Posted on 31 December 2024

Since her 2020 debut, with each new release, Alana Sukul has raised the bar, allowing her latest single, Mhm Yeah? to set a new standard for Afropop transcendence.

The way she explores the intersections between dancehall and RnB with pure soul in Mhm Yeah? ensures there’s nothing left to be desired. As your rhythmic pulses are ensnared, you’ll be all the more susceptible to the warmth permeating the track and how the candour pours like a waterfall from her vocals and lyrics alike.

There’s something effortlessly pretence-less about Sukul, and it’s a rare feat to find that emotive vulnerability paired with a polished and stylised production. It’s only a matter of time before she reigns supreme in the UK dancehall scene: she’s got the sound, and the status will undoubtedly follow.

Sukul’s approach is rooted in her British Caribbean heritage, combining sensitive lyricism with heady, infectious hooks. Many of her tracks are recorded and mixed in her London bedroom, which explains the intimate authenticity that resonates through her music.

Even at this early stage in her career, she has earned support from Amazing Radio, Hoxton Radio, Vibe 107.6, Mixtape Madness, CloudKid, Acid Stag, Noctis Magazine, and CULTR. Her latest single wholeheartedly confirms how and why so much hype is amassing around her.

Stream Mhm Yeah? On Spotify now.

Review by Amelia Vandergast

Exclusive A&R Factory Interview with Producer Mykah: From Church Choir to Afrobeat Innovation

Posted on 27 December 2024

In this exclusive A&R Factory interview, Producer Mykah takes us on a journey through his inspiring rise in the music industry, from his humble beginnings in a church choir to producing for global icons like Davido and Ozuna. With a signature style that marries Afrobeat and R&B, Mykah discusses the challenges he overcame to establish his studio, his creative process, and his passion for giving back to the community through YouTube tutorials. He also sheds light on his recent EP, collaborations with rising stars like Boyspyce, and his vision for the future.

Producer Mykah, welcome to A&R Factory! We’re grateful for the opportunity to connect with you and discuss the crowning points of your career and your future ambitions. Going back to your origin story, what inspired you to step into production and how did you get started? 

Thank you for having me! My journey into music production began with inspiration from my dad, who was the choirmaster at our church. I was fascinated by the keyboard and curious about how people could create such beautiful music with it. That curiosity led me to learn the keyboard, and soon, I was playing for my church. In 2016, I took it a step further by downloading FL Studio, a DAW for music production, and I started teaching myself how to make beats by watching YouTube tutorials. That marked the beginning of my career as a producer.

Were there any challenges you faced when you started out?

I like to view challenges as building blocks to success, but the most significant obstacle I faced was financial. Setting up my own music studio required resources I didn’t have at the time. However, I overcame this by consistently putting out more beats for purchase, which gradually provided the funds I needed to establish myself.

Your list of credits is almost endless; which projects stand out for you and why?

One project that stands out for me is a track I produced featuring Ozuna and Davido. The experience of having two artists from different continents working on a beat I created was mind-blowing. It’s moments like these that remind me why I do what I do. I’d also say my signature style, which blends Afrobeat and R&B, adds a unique element to my projects.

What inspired you to create a tutorial series on YouTube?

YouTube played a significant role in my journey as a producer—it’s where I learned many of the skills I have today. Creating a tutorial series was my way of giving back to the community and helping upcoming producers like myself who may not have access to formal training.

Can you tell us a little about your recently released EP and your work with Boyspyce?

My recent EP focuses on Afrobeat, showcasing its many facets while featuring talented up-and-coming artists. I wanted to provide a platform for these artists to share their talent and tell their stories. Working with Boyspyce was a particularly fun and rewarding experience. Our collaboration came about after he discovered my beats on YouTube, and the rest is history.

How have the artists you have collaborated with shaped your career?

Collaboration has been pivotal in my growth as a producer. Every time I work with an artist, I learn something new and refine my craft. Artists like Davido, Ozuna, Barry Jhay, and Boyspyce have left a lasting impact on my journey, helping me evolve and reach new heights.

What would you say is the main driving force behind your creativity, and how is it pushing you towards your long-term goals?

My creativity is fueled by my passion for constantly creating new sounds and pushing boundaries. It’s this drive that keeps me experimenting and evolving. Looking ahead, I see myself creating global hits and launching my own music production school to nurture the next generation of producers.

What’s your vision for the future, and how does that tie in with the contributions you want to make to the music industry?

My vision is to continue innovating and elevating Afrobeat on the global stage while building a legacy that empowers others. I want to give back to the industry by creating opportunities for young talents and fostering a collaborative environment where creativity thrives.

What are you putting into place to ensure that you reach your milestones and grow your brand?

I’m focused on exploring new sounds, incorporating AI into my production process, and collaborating with artists, producers, and entertainers from around the world. These steps will help me stay ahead of the curve while expanding my reach and influence in the music industry.

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Discover Producer Mykah’s work on Spotify and keep up to date with his latest work via Instagram.

Interview by Amelia Vandergast

Adline Owens is leading a revolution in autonomous self-determination in her Afro-Fusion release, T•R•T (The Right Time)

Posted on 6 December 2024
Adline Owens

With a gravitational force that could knock the solar system out of orbit, it would be insulting to mark Adline Owen as merely just an icon; she’s a fusionist phenomenon in her own right, leading a revolution in autonomous self-determination with her latest release, T•R•T (The Right Time).

The two-track release synthesises her diverse cultural and musical influences into a compelling narrative of empowerment and self-discovery, marked by Afrobeat, Dancehall, Reggaeton, RnB and Afro-Soul motifs.

The opening track, ‘In Yeah’ evocatively explores relationship dynamics, considering how ‘good enough’ should never be enough if you know your worth and urging listeners to recognise their own value through its Afro-Soul vocals and the energetic pulse of dancehall. When it comes to pairing introspection with infectious beats, Owens reigns supreme.

The second single, ‘Dem Wah Know,’ turns up the heat with its Reggaeton rhythms and bold, assertive vocals that command attention. Owens’ fierce delivery and the track’s vibrant energy make it an anthem of self-assurance and resilience, encapsulating her refusal to be confined by her roots or her haters’ expectations.

With T•R•T, Adline Owens not only cements her status as a dynamic fusion artist but also as a visionary capable of weaving her diverse musical heritage into a fresh, invigorating sound that resonates well beyond its Afro-Soul roots.

Adline Owens Said

“T•R•T is a project that holds great personal significance for me, showcasing my range across Afrobeats, Dancehall, and R&B, which underlines my identity as a fusion artist.

Track 1, ‘In Yeah’, explores the love and understanding shared in a relationship that still leaves you wanting more effort. This track vocalises the need for personal growth and the tough decisions you must sometimes make for your sanity. It portrays the protagonist’s struggle with a partner who lacks ambition and motivation—essentially a dead weight needing to be let go.

Track 2, Dem Wah Know, I wrote while reflecting on obstacles and my journey as an artist. It focuses on resilience, self-belief, and the importance of stepping up despite the odds being stacked against you. It’s an empowering anthem and a reminder not to let haters dictate your success.”

Follow Adline Owens on Instagram and discover her discography on Spotify.

Review by Amelia Vandergast

Daniel Aether tore through the EDM scene like a ‘Tsunami’ in his latest track, featuring Princess Lourdess

Posted on 15 November 2024

If your playlist is missing a track that can thrash through the mundane with visceral intensity, ‘Tsunami’ by Daniel Aether featuring vocal lines from the salacious siren, Princess Lourdess, will fill that void.

So much more than an anthem; it’s an unapologetically soulful storm that melds afrobeat grooves, textured RnB vocals, boom-bap beats and a relentless EDM drive, allowing it to tear apart genre boundaries with hedonistic heat. Once you’re caught in the rhythmic momentum of ‘Tsunami,’ you’ll have no option but to surrender to its evocative pull.

Raised in Italy, based in Scotland, and rooted in Nigerian sounds, Aether’s cultural melting pot of influences pours seamlessly into this track. His appreciation for RnB, Afrobeats, and K-pop harmonies shines through, as does his affinity for MNEK, Little Mix, and Mariah Carey, but it’s the ad-libs and harmonies—think Destiny’s Child with a twist—that distinguishes this single. His seamless integration of influences makes the single as versatile as it is slick, complete with polished production that belies his underground indie status.

‘Tsunami’ may be a love song for volatile hearts, but it’s the refined production and sublime vocal layering that should have this track shimmering at the top of the EDM charts.

Tsunami will hit all major streaming platforms on November 15; stream the single on SoundCloud first.

Review by Amelia Vandergast