This article previously appeared on Audiomack World.
BNXN — BAD SINCE ‘97
The newest BNXN project has landed. A Nigerian Hometown Hero, BNXN (fka Buju) underwent a name change following his cheekily apologetic Sorry I’m Late EP released last year. This year has been kind to the artist, with him featuring on Pheelz’ smash “Finesse,” a COLORS performance, and the release of a big single featuring Wande Coal. On BAD SINCE ‘97, the artist strips away any anxiety packed into his previous EP and brims with confidence. The soundstage here is dynamic as BNXN tells his story with features from Wizkid, Olamide, and more.
Read our feature interview: “BNXN Is Ready for Stardom”
Spice — Emancipated
Don’t f**k with Spice, the queen of dancehall. With over two decades in the music industry, Spice’s career journey is a testament to staying the course and fighting for your breakthrough moment, even if it takes years. On her latest project Emancipated, the GRAMMY-nominated artist blends brunt tones (“CLAP CLAP”) with playful tunes (“BAKE A MAN”). Across these nine songs, Spice ups the charm even further from her 2021 formal studio debut, 10.
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Chike — The Brother’s Keeper
Chike’s emotional sophomore album The Brother’s Keeper features songs he began writing four years ago, recording all the way up to July of this year. The record focuses on themes of love and liberation, with Chike’s soaring vocals at the center. Following his debut album Boo of the Booless, pressure mounted for Chike to become the apex of Nigerian R&B. Those expectations didn’t break him, however. “I’m one of those artists people listen to because they want to hear me, and made sure that regardless of what I’m saying they can still hear me on the Brother’s Keeper,” Chike said.
DJ Tunez — Cruise Control Vol. 1
DJ Tunez has helped push Afrobeats into the stratosphere. The DJ-producer spoke with Audiomack World in 2021 about the importance of African artists having control over the genre’s trajectory, and with the release of Cruise Control Vol. 1, Tunez continues his mission of bringing Afrobeats worldwide on his terms. The five-song project features Wizkid, Victony, Wande Coal, and more.
Read our feature interview “DJ Tunez Is Pushing Afrobeats Into the Stratosphere”
Jade Novah — Moon in Pisces
Confession: I am a triple Virgo, but I can support Jade Novah’s Moon in Pisces all the same. Novah’s soothing voice drives the six-track project, but the real draw is her pen—imagery here is approachable and full-bodied. While a viral Rihanna cover formally launched Jade Novah’s career, it has been sustained by Novah’s patience, willingness to mentor other artists, and a strong trust in her own journey. “My intention is to unapologetically take up space in all the places that bring me joy,” Jade shared in an interview. “Music, writing, comedy, advocating for self-care and therapy…all of the things!”
