Something exciting is happening on the continent this week: a musical pulse that feels simultaneously nostalgic and fresh, as if history is remixed with the swagger of tomorrow. everything starts with Tyla’s “Chanel,” a soft but confident statement from the South African hitmaker who has long transcended borders. Then, just as the shine of “Chanel” fades, Shallipopi “He”, presenting gunnatakes over: a meeting between Benin City and Atlanta that sounds like two cities vibrating across time zones.
Now every Friday feels like a cultural summit, with the continent’s voices shaping new genres, moods and aesthetics. Afrobeats has become a passport, amapiano a movement and highlife a remixed memory for modern speakers. From Lagos to Cape Town to London, the week’s releases reaffirm Africa’s sonic dominance. Indeed, it is a rhythm-rich statement that innovation here not only exists, but also sounds.
Ultimately, these tracks show more than talent. They reveal a continent in motion, where tradition and experimentation collide perfectly. Here’s a closer look at the songs currently driving Africa’s sound.
Here’s a closer look at the highlights that made this week unforgettable…
#1. Tyla – Chanel
Tyla from South Africa is back and “Chanel” shows that she is not going to slow down after the enormous success of her WWP PE. The track begins with a hypnotic combination of bright pop textures and Afrobeat percussion, drawing you in immediately. At the center is Tyla’s voice, honeyed, but high enough to cut through the beat.
“Chanel” is luxury music. It drips with confidence and elegance, turning self-assurance into melody. Plus, there’s a rare ease to the way Tyla performs: her voice glides, her delivery teases, and the beat feels effortlessly alive. Beyond its sonic appeal, the song reminds us why Tyla is one of the few artists who can make crossover music feel genuinely African while also sounding chart-ready anywhere in the world.
#2. Shallipopi and Gunna – Him
On “Him,” Shallipopi, Nigeria’s digital-age street poet, teams up with Gunna in a collaboration that feels both effortless and daring. The rhythm oscillates between Afrofusion bounce and trap melodies, creating a sonic bridge that honors the roots of both artists. Meanwhile, Gunna’s verse glides along like silk, perfectly complementing Shallipopi’s earthy, chant-like flow.
Together, they create something aspirational but grounded. A transatlantic anthem for anyone chasing greatness. Importantly, the theme reminds us that African collaborations no longer need validation from the West. Now they are validation.
#3. Mavo ft. Davido – Shakabulizzy (Remix)
For the emerging Nigerian artist mavo“Shakabulizzy” (Remix) marks a bold step into the mainstream. Presenting Davidthe remix oozes charisma and confidence. The beat is unmistakably Afrobeat – warm, percussive and kinetic – but Mavo’s melodic control gives it a distinctive personality.
Davido, as always, turns the track into an event. Her energy elevates each chorus, her voice a familiar spark of celebration. Together, the chemistry between the artists is electric: one introduces himself to the world and the other reminds us why he is a mainstay. “Shakabulizzy” (Remix) seems destined for both dance floors and playlists, a joyful statement of ambition well done.
#4. Dave ft. Themes – Raindance
Few collaborations this year feel as emotionally charged as David and Topics‘ “Dance of the rain”. Taken from Dave’s new album. The boy who played the harpthe track is a poetic intersection of introspection and grace. Dave offers verses that read like journal entries: contemplative, vulnerable, and precise. Meanwhile, Tems’ voice infuses every chorus with warmth, like sunlight breaking through a storm.
The production, led by Joe Caleb, kyle evansand Johnny LeslieIt’s cinematic but restrained, and never overwhelms the performance. “Raindance” manages to be haunting and healing at the same time. It’s a testament to two artists who truly understand the power of storytelling and subtlety.
#5. The Cavemen with Pa Salieu – Gatekeepers
Closing out the week’s featured list is “Gatekeepers,” a collaboration that shouldn’t work on paper, but absolutely does. The cavemenNigerian socialite leaders join forces with British rapper Pa Salieu to create a track that feels ancient and avant-garde. The guitars shine, the percussion pulses with tradition and Pa Salieu’s bars cut like a modern griot’s sermon.
The track is cinematic, like a conversation between eras. Lyrically, it challenges conformity while celebrating freedom, reflecting the journeys of both acts, who have achieved success on their own terms. “Gatekeepers” is experimental, rebellious and deeply African – a perfect ending to a week of music that moves the continent forward.
Featured image: @tyla/Instagram
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