As the Covid vaccine roll-out commences, it is clear that we will still be in pandemic mode for a while. Whether you are going into a second lockdown or coming out of one, the anxiety is at a peak. Music is always a great way to unwind and relax, here are some quarantunes 2.0: Your African playlist for 2021.
Niko Sawa by Nviiri the storyteller
Nviiri is a songwriter, you can tell he takes his time to craft the perfect lyrics and with Niko Sawa, it shows. Here he collaborated with long term mentor and fellow musician Bien Aime Baraza and this may just be the heartbreak quarantune 2.0 of 2021. First off it has a very Kenyan vibe right off the bat, the words niko sawa, meaning I’m good/okay is such a common phrase…even when things are not going that great, like now. The song is a masterpiece of melodies and my only complaint is that I wish it was longer. No video out yet but enjoy the musicality of it all below. The song is part of Nviiri’s new earhugging EP Kitenge.
My Kind of Woman by Ric Hassani
Ric Hassani, a Nigerian by nationality, has peaked my interest in the past but this song here… this is love music. He collaborated with Sauti Sol which of course always means you will be getting soulful acoustics mixed with amazing vocals. My fave, Chimano, delivers like the pro he is in the second verse blending perfectly with Ric’s tenor in the chorus. My kind of woman is just one of the Quranatune 2.0 songs on Ric Hassani’s new EP, The Prince I Became, worth a listen.
Message by Fally Ipupa
I don’t speak French or Lingala but the vibes on this song were enough to have me search for it on Shazzam the moment I heard it. As usual Fally keeps it one 100, he is a seasoned musician having started out in Koffi Olomide’s band and finally breaking away to start his own very successful career. He is also clearly in the same vampire club as Pharrell and the likes, this guy does not age. Message has a laid-back mid tempo kizomba vibe that is perfect for mid morning or a Saturday afternoon. Enjoy!
Nakufeel by Jivu
Jivu are a Kenyan duo ( Uncle K and Chege) from Ongata Rongai, clearly the long trips to the city centre are great for coming up with tunes and lyrics because this song is dope. I would love to hear more of their music on Kenyan radio stations. The song is part of their EP Hayawi Hayawi and I must say I love how they have created their own unique sound and vibe. Nakufeel means “I’m feeling you”.
Ukimwona By H_art the band
H_art the Band are one of those groups whose rise is just inspiring. To see them succeed in Kenya’s music industry is a testament to their hard work. This song is just feel good and fun with the catchy chorus (translation: “if you see her tell her I still love her” ). It’s one of those that you just know is going to be a concert favourite when outside finally opens up.
Indlovu DJ Zinhle feat Loyiso
I love how DJ Zinhle consistently delivers such powerful and inspiring tunes. This song encourages those going through setbacks to hold on as their day will come. Indlovu in Zulu means elephant (similar to Kiswahili Ndovu) and the song is basically lifting us up by saying we are strong like elephants and we will rise and succeed. Love it.
Post Script.
Afrinado sends a big thank you to musicians, artists and creators for keeping us from going crazy during this pandemic. Thank you for your art, may you keep creating and getting paid.
I just pove your content😍