This week’s edition of New Music Friday brings another wave of fresh tunes and rhythms, keeping the world of music lovers alive with anticipation for the latest tracks from both emerging and established artists.
The tradition of releasing music on Fridays, known as “New Music Friday,” was officially launched on 10 July 2015. The International Federation of the Phonographic Industry (IFPI) spearheaded the initiative, aiming to streamline global release schedules. Releasing music on a Friday maximises an artist’s chance of charting on Billboard, which tracks sales from Friday to Thursday each week.
READ ALSO: New Music Friday: Africa’s Contribution to Global Music
According to Luminate, a music data research firm, an estimated 120,000 new songs are uploaded to streaming platforms daily as of 2023—a significant increase from 93,400 per day the previous year. This surge highlights the ever-expanding landscape of digital music consumption.
One of the defining trends in global music remains the unstoppable rise of Afrobeats. With over 15 billion streams recorded, the genre’s infectious rhythms and high-energy beats have propelled it from West Africa into mainstream music worldwide. This cultural shift underscores the growing influence of African music on the global stage.
Leading this week’s lineup is Asake, the “Mr. Money With the Vibe” himself. He returns with “Why Love,” a soulful and heartfelt track produced by his longtime collaborator, Magicsticks. This release marks a new chapter in his career, as it is his first official single since parting ways with Olamide’s YBNL label in late 2024. Now operating under his own imprint, Giran Republic, Asake embarks on an independent journey that promises more exciting releases.
Other notable releases include:
Ayra Starr – “All The Love”: A testament to her evolving artistry, Ayra Starr’s latest offering captivates with her soulful voice and evocative lyrics. A must-listen.
Adekunle Gold – “Obimo”: A masterful blend of highlife, Afrobeats, and alternative sounds, “Obimo” harkens back to his breakout hit “Sade,” which won Best Alternative Song at the 2015 Headies. The track beautifully fuses traditional influences with contemporary production.
Ruger – “Jay Jay”: A high-energy track showcasing Ruger’s sharp lyricism and versatility. “Jay Jay” reaffirms his status as one of Afrobeats’ most consistent hitmakers.
Tyla & Sean Paul – “Push 2 Start (Remix)”: A thrilling collaboration that merges old and new sounds. With its infectious beat and catchy melody, this remix stands out as a highlight of the week.
T.I Blaze – “Trenches Luv”: A poignant reflection on love’s struggles in a challenging environment. T.I Blaze delivers emotive vocals and relatable lyrics, making “Trenches Luv” a powerful listen.
Bad Boy Timz – “Later”: A soulful track that highlights his vocal range and songwriting prowess. With its heartfelt lyrics, “Later” is a standout addition to this week’s lineup.
This week’s New Music Friday is a celebration of sound and culture, showcasing a diverse mix of artists and genres. From the pulsating rhythms of Afrobeats to the soulful melodies of R&B, there is something for everyone. As music continues to evolve and connect people across the world, one thing remains certain: the power of sound to unite and inspire is truly unmatched.
