This week’s New Music Friday delivers a compelling mix of introspection, heartbreak, and sheer confidence. The sonic landscape has just been refreshed with a wave of new releases, ready to soundtrack your weekend. From whispers of upcoming projects to surprise drops that hit like a bolt of lightning, this New Music Friday is bursting with fresh sounds. Get ready to dive into a curated selection of tracks destined for your weekend rotation.
Taxi Driver — Joeboy
Joeboy takes center stage on this week’s New Music Friday with the lead single of his forthcoming album, ‘Viva Lavida’. The song, which he teased through short film episodes starring comedian Layi Wasabi and public figure Asher Kine, features the actors sharing heartbreak stories in the backseat of a taxi where Joeboy, playing the role of the “Taxi Driver,” also assumes the part of a therapist.
On ‘Taxi Driver’, the singer soulfully mourns a lost love, opening with the poignant lyrics “Who send me make I fall in love again? I be dey think say you go be my sweet sugar cane”, delivered over a subtle guitar progression reminiscent of Ghanaian highlife melodies. The track marks Joeboy’s second release of 2025, with both singles serving as part of the rollout for his third studio album, arriving roughly two years after his sophomore effort.
Lyrically, ‘Taxi Driver’ finds Joeboy seeking solace from the emotional turmoil he endured in the relationship. He has moved past the pain, resolute in his decision to let go, unfazed by any pleas to work things out. With these two releases, Joeboy’s upcoming project is shaping up to be a collection of soulful heartbreak music from an artist whose track record proves he truly knows his craft.
Must Have Been — Tar1q
One of the most talented new-school pop artists, Tar1q, is known for weaving themes of heartbreak, love, and life’s musings into his music. His latest release, ‘Must Have Been’, arrives remarkably soon after an eventful 2024 and the release of his studio EP, ‘Okada Airlines’.
Tar1q’s innate ability to craft emotive melodies sets him apart from his peers, and on ‘Must Have Been’, he bids a lover an early goodbye, mourning what could have been. The song finds him grappling with the pain of his new reality, lamenting that despite now being strangers, he put in significant effort to make the relationship work.
A striking element of the track is the bridge, featuring a feminine vocal, not listed as a guest artist but acknowledged as one of the song’s writers. There’s a strong possibility that a new Tar1q project is on the horizon, as he hinted in his social media caption for the release, which included spammy brown heart emojis and the cryptic phrase: “Brown Hearts everyday”
Olivia — Lasmid
Ghanian singer Lasmid has released his debut single for the year 2025 titled ‘Olivia’. Signed to Nigerian record label Dvpper Digital, Lasmid’s new record ‘Olivia’ captures the emotional state of the artist over his muse Olivia who has apparently broken his heart and directly contributed to his excess consumption in alcohol. From the lyrics, the song appears to be a melancholic reflection on heartbreak, and loneliness. Lasmid expresses emotional turmoil, referencing drinking tequila and feeling mentally distressed. The mention of “Olivia” suggests that the song revolves around a lost love or a complicated relationship that has left Lasmid feeling abandoned and sad.
Lines like “On this lonely road, bitches dem be stepping on my toes, making me feel sad o” indicate that the artist faces struggles beyond just romantic pain, perhaps betrayal. The phrase “What I thought was green turned blue” suggests what was shared and once perceived as promising has turned into sadness.
On ‘Olivia’ Lasmid crafts an emotionally raw, introspective tone, with elements of vulnerability into melodies.
Bere Mi (Reimagined) — ID Cabasa ft. Zlatan, T.I BLAZE
Veteran Nigerian producer ID Cabasa breathes new life into a classic with the reimagined Bere Mi (Ask About Me), featuring 9ice, Zlatan, T.I Blaze, and 2Phat. As the third single from his Unfinished Business album, this fresh take on an old favorite seamlessly blends nostalgia with the raw energy of contemporary street-hop.
Originally released in the early 2000s, Bere Mi was a defining record, brought to life by 2Phat’s sharp lyricism and 9ice’s distinct vocals. The song captured the hustle and aspirations of its time, becoming a cultural anthem. Now, with Cabasa’s masterful touch, the track maintains its essence while embracing the dynamic pulse of today’s music scene. Zlatan Ibile injects his signature swagger, while T.I Blaze delivers emotive melodies, adding new dimensions to the record.
Different Pattern — PsychoYP
PsychoYP’s latest freestyle, ‘Different Pattern’, is a high-energy, braggadocious track that reaffirms his dominance in the Nigerian hip-hop and trap scene. Staying true to his signature style, he delivers rapid-fire bars over a hard-hitting beat, laced with themes of wealth, luxury, and street credibility.
Throughout the track, YP flexes his success, referencing his expensive cars and flashy lifestyle while making it clear that he’s leagues ahead of the competition. His lyrics exude confidence, reinforcing his elite status in the game. He also throws in assertive lines about his craft, positioning himself as untouchable in the rap scene.
A key part of ‘Different Pattern’ is its defiant tone—PsychoYP makes it clear that if any “opps” challenge him, they’ll face whatever consequences. ‘Different Pattern’ mirrors the aggressive and fearless attitude that has become a staple in his music, with lines that emphasize his readiness to defend his reputation.
With ‘Different Pattern’, PsychoYP doesn’t stray far from the formula that has solidified his reputation as Nigeria’s trap frontrunner. His signature delivery, characterized by sharp flows and effortless charisma, makes this freestyle another testament to his consistency in the scene.
Survivor — Olivetheboy ft. Qing Madi
Ghanaian rising star Olivetheboy joins forces with Nigerian vocal powerhouse Qing Madi on ‘Survivor‘, a deeply introspective track that captures the essence of perseverance and self-reliance. Produced by Beatz Vampire, the song is a fusion of Afro-fusion and soulful melodies, embodying the quiet strength of those who push forward despite life’s obstacles.
Olivetheboy sets the tone with the line, “I stay on my own lane, I don’t need your concern,” a declaration of independence and unwavering focus. His delivery is both defiant and reflective, mirroring the mindset of someone who has learned to navigate life on their own terms. Qing Madi complements this with her signature ethereal vocals, adding a layer of emotion that speaks to the solitude often felt on the path to success. Her lyrics evoke both strength and vulnerability, making Survivor an anthem for anyone embracing personal growth in the face of adversity.
With a smooth yet poignant production, Survivor isn’t just a song—it’s a testament to resilience, reminding listeners that even in isolation, there is strength to be found. Olivetheboy and Qing Madi’s synergy on this track solidifies their standing as two of the most compelling voices in West Africa’s new wave of artists.
Stream the full New Music Friday Playlist on Spotify below.
