Ruger, Tyla, Diamond Platnumz On This Week’s New Music Friday
It’s New Music Friday! This week’s releases feature a diverse range of artists and genres. Check out our roundup of the hottest new tracks and discover the music that’s making waves from Ruger, Tyla, Diamond Platnumz On This Week’s New Music Friday.
Why Love — Asake
Asake’s departure from his former label, YBNL, has sparked controversy, with some members of his previous label leveling accusations of misconduct and haughtiness against the star. Months after releasing his third studio album, Lungu Boy, aimed at both domestic and international audiences, Asake terminated his contract with Olamide’s YBNL, removing his past works with the label and debuting a new look. In January, Asake teased a new song while in the studio, sporting his new, somewhat controversial, look, which many deemed ragged. The song, titled “Why Love,” follows his established amapiano template and sounds familiar, perhaps due to the production. Asake’s delivery showcases his masterful singing and lyrical inflection, which would complement various production styles beyond amapiano.
With the release of his first single of the year, as an independent artist under his Giran Republic label, it’s clear that Asake aims to solidify his presence in the global market, particularly in the US. He was recently spotted with India Love, further fueling controversy, and she ultimately appeared as the vixen in the official music video for “Why Love.”
Jay Jay – Ruger
Ruger has a history of starting his music year strong with tracks that resonate with listeners. Kicking off 2024 with a surprise collaboration with Bnxn in February, Ruger’s undeniable talent as an independent artist under his label, Blownboy Ru, continues to demonstrate his growth. With an excellent sense of musicality, Ruger’s delivery seamlessly integrates with any production he encounters, giving his music high replay value throughout his discography. His new single, “Jay Jay,” embodies the stereotypical toxic playboy persona, with lyrics that sparked controversy, particularly on Twitter, shortly after the song was teased. Ruger opens the song with, “If a girl worries me, I delete her, put her inside the bin bag, so why won’t she be bitter.” Many have criticized Ruger’s lyrics, stating they promote the wrong message, especially given the rising rates of femicide in the country.
Moyo – Diamond Platnumz
Tanzanian music sensation Diamond Platnumz has captivated listeners with another impressive single, “Moyo,” earning praise for its heartfelt lyrics and melodious composition. This release follows a string of successful singles, including “Komosava,” which spawned a remix with American singer Jason Derulo, showcasing his continued evolution in the Bongo Flava genre. In “Moyo,” he delivers a passionate performance, blending traditional Tanzanian sounds with contemporary rhythms. The song has quickly gained popularity among his fans due to its emotive lyrics and polished production, highlighting Diamond Platnumz’s signature style and vocal prowess. The track’s poignant lyrics and engaging melody resonate deeply, exploring themes of love and introspection. Diamond Platnumz’s ability to convey emotion through his music is evident, making this a standout addition to his discography. For fans of Bongo Flava and soulful tunes, “Moyo” is a must-listen. Its rich instrumentation and heartfelt delivery make it a valuable addition to any music collection.
Obimo – Adekunle Gold
In the spirit of love, Nigerian singer and love connoisseur Adekunle Gold celebrates spousal love in his new single, “Obimo.” With his exquisite vocals, Adekunle Gold croons over a groovy production featuring a guitar, masterfully crafted by Ragee. After teasing the song with his wife and mother of his child, Simi, on social media platforms, “Obimo” instantly connected with audiences, who eagerly anticipated its release. While this isn’t the first time Adekunle Gold and Simi have collaborated on a song, “Obimo” reinforces their musical chemistry, whether as co-writers or providing backing vocals on each other’s tracks. “Obimo,” a celebration of enduring spousal love and commitment, highlights relationships and marriages that possibly inspired the record. This is further evidenced in the official music video, which showcases the love between US rapper Tobe Nwigwe and his wife, Martica “Fat.” Adekunle Gold previously appeared on the outro of Tobe’s last studio album, Hood Hymns, which also featured a guest appearance from Odumodublvck.
Push 2 Start Remix – Tyla ft. Sean Paul
Tyla has enlisted Sean Paul for the remix of her hit, “Push 2 Start.” “Push 2 Start” was originally released in October as one of three new tracks on the deluxe edition of Tyla’s self-titled debut album. It became her second entry on the Billboard Hot 100, following her top 10 smash “Water,” peaking at No. 88 and spending eight weeks atop the U.S. Afrobeats Songs chart. This isn’t the first time the South African singer has collaborated with a Jamaican artist. She recorded “Jump” with dancehall star Skillibeng and Gunna on the original version of Tyla. Sean Paul’s verse and ad-libs add depth to the track. The remix evokes a nostalgic feel reminiscent of Beyoncé & Sean Paul’s “Baby Boy.” It will be interesting to see how this performs on the Dancehall charts and how far it propels the song.
All The Love – Ayra Starr
Centered on showing unconditional love to her muse, who genuinely deserves it, Ayra Starr masterfully demonstrates in “All The Love” how a Nigerian love ballad should be crafted, infused with a melody that compels repeated listens. In the song, she emphasizes that this person’s beautiful heart is more than enough and deserves unconditional love: “But one thing is certain, I’ll be that person, Wey go be your shoulder, buddy, bestie, anything.” Although it seems this person isn’t receiving deserved, reciprocated love from others, Ayra Starr reassures them of her unwavering support: “You are deserving of the love you are not getting, Independently, I’ll take the liberty, And I go love you specially, oh.“
LISTEN TO RUGER, TYLA, DIAMOND PLATNUMZ AND MORE ON THIS WEEK’S NEW MUSIC FRIDAY
