NEW MUSIC FRIDAY; JANUARY 17TH 2025

New Music Friday is here again, and it’s serving an exciting mix of sounds from some of the biggest names in music. From genre-bending Afrobeat tracks to heartfelt collaborations and groundbreaking rap anthems, this week’s releases showcase the versatility and creativity that continues to define global music.

Gear up as we dissect these creative pieces together.

 

WICKED JAZZ: KRIZBEATZ AND AJEBO HUSTLERS FEATURING DARKOO

 

Krizbeatz, one of Nigeria’s most innovative music producers, has struck gold again with his latest release, Wicked Jazz. The track, featuring the electrifying talents of British-Nigerian rapper Darkoo and Afrobeat sensation Ajebo Hustlers, is an irresistible Afrobeat sound. Released on January 17, 2025, the song showcases the versatility of all three acts and highlights the genre-blending prowess that Krizbeatz is known for.

At the heart of Wicked Jazz is Krizbeatz, whose production mastery has consistently redefined Afrobeat for the global stage. Known as the “Drummer Boy,” he has a knack for seamlessly merging traditional African rhythms with modern sounds. His ability to collaborate with top-tier artists has solidified his place as a driving force in the music industry.

Ajebo Hustlers, the Nigerian duo comprised of Knowledge and Piego, bring their signature Afrobeat-highlife blend to the mix. Known for their PH city vibes, gritty pidgin delivered lyrics and infectious melodies, the pair elevate Wicked Jazz with their harmonious interplay and relatable storytelling.

Joining in on the project is Darkoo, the British-Nigerian artist whose unique fusion of Afrobeat, drill, and R&B has made her a standout act. Darkoo’s bold lyricism and smooth delivery of the oh-so-sweet chorus, lends a dynamic edge to the track, adding layers of depth and flair.

Darkoo’s chorus adds a dynamic shift, her delivery cutting through the instrumental with precision and confidence. Ajebo Hustlers complement this with solid verses, providing a perfect counterbalance to Darkoo’s energy. The synergy among the artists is palpable, and the song’s rich instrumentation ensures there’s never a dull moment.

Wicked Jazz is a sweet sweet song that immediately latches on to your mind with just one listen. Krizbeatz created something beautiful with the club style Afrobeat percussion, creating an atmosphere that is both cool, suitable for just chilling and nodding–as well as danceable. The result is a track that will get replays for days on every playlist by music lovers. With its infectious rhythm, innovative production, and star-studded lineup, Wicked Jazz is certainly poised to become a standout hit. 

BRIDE PRICE: TERRY APALA AND BELLA SHMURDA 

Nigerian music powerhouses Terry Apala and Bella Shmurda have finally unveiled their much-anticipated collaborative track, Bride Price. Released just this morning, the single has already generated buzz for its infectious rhythm, seamless artistry, and captivating blend of traditional and contemporary sounds.  

Terry Apala, often celebrated as the pioneer of modern Apala fusion, continues to redefine the boundaries of traditional Yoruba music. By infusing Apala with elements of Afrobeat and pop, he has created a unique sonic identity that resonates with fans across generations. His deep, resonant voice remains one of his strongest trademarks, as he effortlessly bridges the gap between old-school and modern Nigerian music.  

On the other hand, Bella Shmurda, a new age force in the Nigerian music scene, has become a household name thanks to his distinct street style, melodic versatility and his very distinguished voice. The Dangbana Republik founder, brings an energetic and emotive quality to his music, making him a favorite among Afrobeat enthusiasts and new-generation listeners alike.  

Bride Price is a beautiful song through and through. A perfect Apala rendition, it’s poised to be the song for Owambe weddings this year and in fact, many years to come. The reference to the Nigerian cultural practice of initiating weddings with a bride price is perfectly intertwined with a description of the typical Nigerian Yoruba wedding, complete with mentions of the Asó Okè attire, the special Nigerian jollof rice and of course that outstanding Yoruba meal–Àmàlà.

Terry Apala’s signature Fuji style and vocal depth provides a grounded yet dynamic foundation, while Bella Shmurda’s energetic and melodic flow injects vibrancy into the track. The traditional themed song is carried beautifully with a song delivery that is entirely in the Yoruba language.  

Musically, the track is a masterclass in blending. It features rhythmic percussion in form of the talking drum ( gán gàn) and the dùn dún that reflects undiluted traditional Yoruba influences as well as melodic instrumentation from the saxophone

It is in fact steeped and rooted in cultural authenticity with a touch of modern flare that is beautifully enhanced by the expert touch of skilled producer, Flamez.

Bride Price is more than just a collaboration–it’s a testament to the versatility and evolution of Nigerian music. By highlighting Nigerian traditions with the entirely cultural genre, Apala, Terry Apala and Bella Shmurda have created a track that speaks to the past and present. A track which will certainly remain relevant in the future.  

GBP: CENTRAL CEE AND 21 SAVAGE 

British rap sensation Central Cee has set the stage for his debut album with the release of the highly anticipated single GBP. Featuring American rap heavyweight 21 Savage, the track dropped on January 16, 2025, and has already sparked conversations about its transatlantic appeal. As the lead single for Central Cee’s debut album, “Can’t Rush Greatness,” slated for release on January 24, the song showcases his ability to bridge UK and US rap influences seamlessly.  

GBP is a celebration of cross-cultural exchange, with Central Cee and 21 Savage exploring the differences and similarities between their respective worlds. Central Cee’s verses highlight the nuances of UK street culture, while 21 Savage brings an Atlanta perspective with his signature laid-back yet incisive delivery. Their lyrics highlight the distinct differences between the UK and the US in terms of street culture, nuances in currency value, gang life and even prevalent streetwear fashion styles.

Lyrical references to topics like gun laws in the UK and the Premier League add layers of relatability for fans on both sides of the Atlantic.  

The music video, directed by Cole Bennett, further amplifies this transatlantic vibe. Shot in Atlanta, it features the duo performing against a backdrop of a massive Union Jack flag. This imagery, combined with vibrant cinematography, serves as a visual metaphor for the blending of British and American influences, making it a fitting complement to the track’s theme.  

GBP has been met with glowing reviews from critics and fans alike with many applauding the chemistry between Central Cee and 21 Savage and noting how their styles effortlessly blend over the track’s atmospheric beat. Fans have also taken to social media to express their excitement, sharing snippets of the song and dissecting its layered lyrics.  

The song’s early streaming performance reflects its strong reception. Central Cee saw a significant spike in Spotify listeners, gaining over 102,000 new monthly listeners shortly after the release. This increase is a testament to the growing anticipation for his debut album. 

With GBP leading the charge, Central Cee’s debut album, “Can’t Rush Greatness”, is shaping up to be one of the most talked-about releases of the year. The album promises a mix of introspective tracks and high-energy bangers, with collaborations including the 2024 single BAND4BAND featuring Lil Baby. As a rising star in the global rap scene, Central Cee aims to solidify his place as a versatile and innovative artist.  

Produced by Eight8 and Jonny Leslie, GBP highlights Central Cee’s ability to craft music that resonates across borders. Paired with 21 Savage’s global influence, the song underscores the growing interconnectedness of the global rap community.  

 

CHISOM (WE DEM BOYZ): 

REXXIE AND JERIQ  

Renowned Nigerian producer Rexxie and talented rapper Jeriq teamed up to create a fresh anthem, Chisom (We Dem Boyz), which premiered this morning. Combining Rexxie’s signature Afro-Fusion sound with Jeriq’s lyrical finesse, the track is already making waves in the Nigerian music scene.  

Rexxie, widely celebrated for his mastery in crafting infectious Afro-Fusion beats, continues to showcase why he remains one of Nigeria’s most sought-after producers. Known for his contributions to hit songs across genres, his production on Chisom (We Dem Boyz) is a blend of pulsating rhythms and vibrant instrumentation that immediately captures attention.  

Jeriq, the talented rapper from Eastern Nigeria, complements Rexxie’s beats with sharp, authentic, and resonant lyrics. His unique delivery, which seamlessly combines English with Igbo, adds depth to the track, making it a relatable anthem for his growing fanbase. Together, the duo creates a synergy that underscores the richness of Nigeria’s music landscape.  

Chisom (We Dem Boyz) is a celebration of the resilience and self-confidence of a man. The track’s energetic tempo and bold lyrics reflect the unyielding spirit of the artists and their listeners. Its title, “Chisom,” which translates to “God is with me” in Igbo, adds a layer of cultural authenticity, perfectly connecting the song to its roots. This is further enhanced by the use of the Oja–a traditional Igbo flute known for its distinctive sound and cultural significance and typically used in traditional ceremonies, celebrations as well as for storytelling and praise-singing. 

 

The song’s dynamic production, paired with Jeriq’s sharp verses, delivers a high-energy vibe perfect for playlists, club scenes, and personal motivation. Rexxie’s ability to blend Afrobeat with traditional influences ensures the track appeals to diverse audiences.  

Since its release, fans have praised the seamless collaboration, with many highlighting the chemistry between Rexxie’s beats and Jeriq’s storytelling. 

The official video, released on YouTube, perfectly portrays the cultural theme of the song and it showcases several men dressed in the cultural garb of the Igbo tribesman.

Chisom (We Dem Boyz) is more than just a song–it’s a cultural moment. It embodies the dynamism of Nigerian music, blending traditional influences with contemporary sounds to create something fresh and inspiring.  

 

CARRY FOR HEAD: SKIIBII 

Nigerian singer and songwriter Skiibii has ushered in the new year with a fresh and soulful single, Carry for Head. Released this morning, January 17, 2025, the track is already generating buzz across streaming platforms and music circles. Known for his knack for delivering sensational and melodic Afrobeat hits, Skiibii takes a step further in exploring themes of love and passionate affection with this latest offering.

 

Carry for Head marks a shift in Skiibii’s creative direction, trading his usual themes of luxury and lifestyle for a heartfelt exploration of romance. The track tells a story of unwavering devotion, with Skiibii singing about his willingness to go above and beyond for his lover. 

 

Produced by Eskay, the song is a perfect blend of contemporary Afrobeat and smooth melodic rhythms. The instrumentation features a mix of groovy percussions, lush strings, and subtle synths, creating an atmosphere that is both upbeat and emotionally resonant. Skiibii’s signature vocal delivery ties everything together, creating something that will surely be replayed over and over again by listeners.   

 

With Carry for Head, Skiibii demonstrates his growth as an artist. While he remains true to his Afrobeat roots, the track reveals a more vulnerable and introspective side, showcasing his versatility. This evolution comes as no surprise to fans who have followed his journey from his breakout hits like Sensima to more recent tracks like Baddest Boy and are thus familiar with his tremendous talent.

 

Skiibii’s Carry for Head is more than just a song; it’s a sweet and soulful ode to love. With its heartfelt lyrics, stellar production, and universal appeal, the track is set to become a fan favorite and a staple in his discography. 

 

This week’s New Music Friday lineup proves yet again that music has no boundaries, delivering an array of fresh sounds for every listener. Whether it’s the cultural richness of Afrobeat, the boldness of rap, or soulful melodies, these tracks are set to dominate playlists and keep us all hitting replay.

Which is your fave?