Joeboy, Ruger, Dxtiny and Others On New Music Friday

Fridays are for fresh sounds, and this week’s New Music Friday brings an exciting mix of collaborations, solo records, and genre-bending experiments that are set to dominate playlists. From high-energy remixes to introspective rap cuts and smooth Afropop anthems, artists are raising the bar with bold sonic statements. This week’s lineup is packed with records that demand attention. Explore and discover the tracks shaping the weekend’s vibe.

Viva Lavida – Joeboy

Following an immersive rollout experience that engaged listeners and built high anticipation for his third studio album Viva Lavida, Joeboy’s 13-track project finally hits streaming platforms as a strong contender on today’s New Music Friday. Having unveiled the tracklist only a few days before the project’s release, it became evident that ‘Viva Lavida’ had been in motion for quite some time. Lead releases as far back as Osadebe in February 2024 and the Qing Madi-assisted Adenuga all made the album cut. While it’s still too early to pass judgment on Joeboy’s third studio album, singles leading up to the release—SMH and Taxi Driver—offer hints of what to expect sonically, with executive producer Tempoe steering the direction. Viva Lavida features some of Afrobeats’ finest, including Olamide, Elana Dara, and Wizard Chan. Earlier releases like SMH have been refined with an additional verse and new production elements layered onto Adenuga.

Blown Boy Ru – Ruger

A Ruger project is often characterized by outbursts and subtle jabs at peers, communicated through his social media accounts. The potential greatness of his project can almost be measured by how cocky his subliminal posts are. ‘Blown Boy Ru’, Ruger’s sophomore studio album, is a 13-track piece that explores his Casanova flair and themes of love. Arriving a little over a year after his 17-track debut album Ru the World, Blown Boy Ru sees an assured Ruger delivering Afropop records in sublime fashion, with features standing out as the high points of the project. His ability to accommodate guest artists and seamlessly integrate them into his world shines throughout ‘Blown Boy Ru’, from the Zlatan collaboration to the presence of one of dancehall’s finest, Kranium. The album is steeped in Ruger’s signature themes—his affinity for unstable relationships and subtle hints of toxicity.

Babcock – Dxtiny

The Nigerian music scene continues to witness a surge in artists breaking out with their debut singles, thanks to platforms like TikTok and strategic marketing that find the right audience and establish strong connections. Among this new wave of emerging talents is Dxtiny, who made his mark with the viral song ‘Uncle Pele’ from his two-pack single release, which has now individually amassed over six million streams on Spotify alone. He joins this week’s New Music Friday with a fresh record—the tuneful and catchy Babcock. The Afrobeats market thrives on unique melodies, and Babcock is a rock-solid sonic template of sounds that resonate well in the current sonicscape. The track narrates a story of how Dxtiny’s relationship is strained by long distance, as his partner is in Babcock University (a private institution in southwestern Nigeria) while he remains focused on the “grind” in Uyo. Aware of these challenges, he fears their bond is slipping away, but he’s too in love to accept it as fate, choosing instead to fight for her love.

4 Kampé II – Joé Dwèt Filé ft. Burna Boy

Following the widespread success of ‘4 Kampé’, Haitian singer Joé Dwèt Filé has teamed up with Nigerian global icon Burna Boy for the highly anticipated remix, 4 Kampé II. This electrifying collaboration takes the original track to new heights, seamlessly blending Afro-Caribbean and African sounds into a rhythmic masterpiece bursting with energy. As expected, Burna Boy brings his signature charisma, amplifying the track with his deep vocals, magnetic presence, and undeniable energy. Joé Dwèt Filé opens the record, effortlessly gliding between Creole and French, setting the stage for a self-assured and stylish anthem. Burna Boy then steps in, weaving his distinctive mix of English, Pidgin, and French, further expanding the song’s global appeal and reinforcing the bridge between cultures.

At its core, 4 Kampé II is a celebration of confidence and self-assurance, carried by a pulsating beat that commands attention. Its multilingual delivery—Creole, French, English, and Pidgin—creates a rich sonic and cultural exchange, spotlighting the deep ties between Haiti and Nigeria. Behind the scenes, an all-star production team—Aznvr, Joé Dwèt Filé, Natewkeys, and Wligens—curates a soundscape that effortlessly fuses Afrobeats, Kompa, and Dancehall influences, making 4 Kampé II an infectious blend of rhythm and movement.

Bodycon – Crayon

Mavin Records’ standout talent Crayon makes a return with Bodycon, a brand-new single that effortlessly merges admiration, passion, and smooth Afrobeats vibes. Following his previous release, You featuring Young Jonn, Crayon continues his streak of captivating records, this time placing the spotlight on the irresistible charm of his love interest. On Bodycon, Crayon is completely enraptured by his muse—her radiant melanin, captivating beauty, and graceful form leaving him utterly spellbound. With his signature silky vocals and fluid melodies, he paints a vivid picture of infatuation, expressing his admiration in a rhythmically groovy and infectious manner. Bringing the song to life is Ragee’s impeccable production, delivering a polished and irresistible beat that perfectly complements Crayon’s vocal finesse. Marking his first official single of the year, ‘Bodycon’ sets the tone for what promises to be an exciting musical journey ahead.

G.O.A.T – Erigga

Nigerian rap heavyweight Erigga has finally unveiled his highly anticipated album, G.O.A.T, a project that reaffirms his place as one of the most lyrically sharp voices in Nigerian hip-hop. Following the success of his 2023 album Family Time, this latest offering is a bold statement of his greatness, both in skill and influence within the rap scene. Spanning thirteen tracks, G.O.A.T finds Erigga at his lyrical best, tackling the themes that have shaped his career—street life, hustle, money, relationships, and the daily realities of the common man. Known for his raw and unfiltered storytelling, the Warri-born rapper delivers his verses in his signature Pidgin English, making his narratives both relatable and deeply impactful.

Ayra Starr, Fola, Runtown, Zinoleesky and Others on New Music Friday

The album boasts a stellar lineup of guest features, including rap powerhouse Phyno, street-hop star Bella Shmurda, dynamic duo Ajebo Hustlers, as well as Great Adamz, Kashcpt, Big Klef, and JaQi. Each artist adds a unique element, creating a diverse and engaging listening experience.

From gritty street anthems to introspective reflections on life and ambition, G.O.A.T showcases Erigga’s growth, resilience, and ability to stay true to his roots while evolving with the times.