Thursday, November 24.
1. Tena Menkyen – Paapa Yankson ft. Paulina Oruro
Released many years ago, Paapa Yankson’s Tena Menkyen is among the country’s most cherished duets — a true classic. Introduced by tender whistling and a ripe tenor, the melodious duet captures flawlessly, a sentimental exchange between a couple in love. It is rendered with a lovely playfulness, and impeccable vocal confidence which doubtlessly endeared us to the pair, and Paulina’s voice especially.
2. Flow No – Akan
The fast – rising rapper, who recently rebranded from Quabena Shy, is one to watch among a rising generation of lyrically adept artists. Akan navigates the fabric of rap in his native Twi with a satanic brilliance which has already earned him comparison with such greats as Obrafour.
Veteran producer Da’Hammer, known for his knack for nurturing gems, simply posted along with the song on his Facebook page: “run for cover”. It is in your own interest to comply.
3. Kwaadede – Kesse
A touching tune about life and living it, MTN Project Fame finalist Kesse Frmpong’s Kwaadede rides on tender guitar melody and soulful singing. Directed by Phfotostyle and Artmotion, accompanying visuals depict compelling images of various instances of human struggle, and redemption eventually.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HlPyUNzyG1M
4. Fa Sor Hor – Sarkodie
Off the heels of the widely received RNS, BET Awards laureate Sarkodie’s Fa Sor Hor (also produced by MOG Beatz) sticks to the themes of financial prudence, admonishing against materialistic tendencies as well as a lack of loyalty.
5. Kaa Bu Ame – E.L
Released days after he was adjudged VGMA Artist of the Year, E.L’s Kaa Bu Ame ( a response to sceptics of his feats) has steadily gained ground, making it unto the playlist of esteemed media outfits and regular folk alike.
Apart from the flavoursome groove it arrives in, it is also a wide favourite because its subject matter resonates with many — Kaa Bu Ame mirrors the challenge of having to deal with contempt on a daily basis, but is reassuring at the same time.
6. Skin Tight – Mr Eazi ft. Efya
Featuring songstress Efya, Mr Eazi’s Skin Tight is a global hit in many respects, and is one of the reasons he may refer to himself ( or be referred to) as “Africa’s new sound”. Produced by UK- based DJ Julz, with whom he has collaborated countless times, Skin Tight is is both compassionate and funky, and will will invoke smiles on the face of the hearer for a long time.
7. Sun and Moon – Wiyaala
Using the sun and moon as illustration, singer Wiyaala wonders why as humans, we cannot peaceful coexist too. Sun and Moon, based on folklore, surely impresses a dense emotion in the heart of listeners, which isi why she is currently both one of our most prized vocalists as well as musical exports.
8. Cupid’s Crooked Bow – M.anifest ft. Nomisupasta
Off Nowhere Cool (September 2016), M.anifest’s Cupid’s Crooked Bow tells a riveting tale of love gone wrong. Soliciting contribution from South African singer and poet Nomisupasta, the song is both disturbing and pleasant to listen to, because of how vividly it portrays the many other ways love could go if it its doesn’t turn out as a fairytale.
9.You & Me – Joey B
Produced by Kuvie, You x Me is one reason we look forward to Joey B’s debut 89 so keenly. Published in May, it is the first single of the project, and though other equally brilliant songs have been announced since then, You x Me remains special. Maybe it’s due to the touching saxophone, maybe it’s due to the artistically daring video. Maybe it’s all that sadness we identify with so easily. Whatever it is, the song is one of the most significant songs to have been released this year.
READ MORE: On Joey B’s You x Me
10. Getaway -Efya
Released in 2012, Efya’s Getaway is perfect. A least once in a while, don’t we all want to step back from all the pace and activity of the city? It is specifically this sentiment Efya sings about in the song, painting an irresistibly pastoral picture of where she and her lover should escape to.