2018 in African music

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The following is a list of events and releases that have happened or are expected to happen in 2018 in African music.

Contents

Events

Albums released in 2018

Release dateArtistAlbumGenreLabelRef
January
26		 Burna Boy Outside Afrobeats, hip-hop, dancehall Atlantic Records [7]
Professor Composed by Jesus Christ Kwaito, dance Kalawa Jazmee Records [8]
January
31		 Zaki Ibrahim The Secret Life of Planets R&B, soul Indie [9]
February
9		 M.I Abaga Rendezvous: The Playlist Hip-hop Chocolate City [10]
February
23		 Femi Kuti One People One World Afrobeat Knitting Factory Records [11]
February
23		 Hailu Mergia Lala Belu Jazz Awesome Tapes from Africa [12]
March
?		 Pape Diouf Enjoy! Mbalax, World [13]
March
2		 Seun Kuti Black Times Afrobeat, World Strut Records [14]
March
27		 Brymo Oṣó Alternative folk, Yoruba music Indie [15]
May
21		 Allah Thérèse & N'Goran LaloiBé gnanssou moayé [16]
May 14 Ike Moriz Millennium Hits 2002 - 2018Pop, Rock, JazzMosquito Records London [17]
May
25		 DJ Neptune Greatness Afrobeats, hip-hopNeptune Records [18]
Adekunle Gold About 30 World, highlife Afro Urban Records, Empire [19]
June
15		 Zonke L.O.V.E Afro-soul Sony [20]
August
24		 M.I Abaga A Study On Self Worth: Yxng Dxnzl Hip-hop Chocolate City [21]
September
11		 Steve Kekana UbuntuSold Out Music
October
19		 Razia The RoadRazia Said Music [22]
November
9		 Mr Eazi Life Is Eazi, Vol. 2 - Lagos to London Afrobeats Banku Music [23]
November
16		 Mayorkun The Mayor of Lagos AfropopDavido Music Worldwide [24]

Classical

Deaths

See also

Related Research Articles

<span class="mw-page-title-main">Seun Kuti</span> Nigerian Afrobeat saxophonist and singer (born 1983)

Oluseun Anikulapo Kuti, popularly known Seun Kuti, is a Nigerian musician, singer and the youngest son of Afrobeat pioneer Fela Kuti. Seun leads his father's former band Egypt 80.

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<span class="mw-page-title-main">M.I Abaga</span> Nigerian rapper (born 1981)

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<span class="mw-page-title-main">Waje</span> Musical artist

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<span class="mw-page-title-main">Davido</span> Nigerian singer (born 1992)

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<span class="mw-page-title-main">DJ Neptune</span> Nigerian DJ and producer

Imohiosen Patrick, professionally known as DJ Neptune, is a Nigerian Disc Jockey and Record Producer. He is from a family of four which includes his three elder sisters and him.

<span class="mw-page-title-main">Mr Eazi</span> Nigerian singer (born 1991)

Oluwatosin Oluwole Ajibade, better known by his stage name Mr Eazi, is a Nigerian singer, songwriter, and record executive. He is the pioneer of Banku music, a fusion of sound he describes as a mixture of Ghanaian highlife and Nigerian chord progressions and patterns. Mr Eazi relocated to Kumasi in 2008 and enrolled at KNUST, where he began booking artists to perform at college parties. He showed interest in music after recording a guest verse on "My Life", a song that gained traction and became a popular record at KNUST. Mr Eazi released his debut mixtape About to Blow in 2013. He gained an international audience following the release of the Efya-assisted single "Skin Tight". His second mixtape, titled Life Is Eazi, Vol. 1 – Accra To Lagos, was released in 2017.

<span class="mw-page-title-main">Ada Ehi</span> Nigerian gospel singer

Ada Ogochukwu Ehi, also simply known by her stage name Ada, is a Nigerian gospel singer, songwriter, recording and performing artist. She started her musical career at the age of 10 as a backup singer for child star Tosin Jegede. Since she professionally started her music career under Loveworld Records in 2009, she has increasingly gained local and international popularity through her songs and music videos.

<span class="mw-page-title-main">Let Me Live (Rudimental and Major Lazer song)</span> 2018 single by Rudimental and Major Lazer featuring Anne-Marie and Mr Eazi

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<i>A Study on Self Worth: Yxng Dxnzl</i> 2018 studio album by Nigerian rapper MI Abaga

A Study on Self Worth: Yxng Denzel is the fourth studio album by Nigerian rapper M.I Abaga. It was released on August 24, 2018, by Chocolate City. The album features guest appearances from Tay Iwar, Cina Soul, Lorraine Chia, Odunsi the Engine, Lady Donli, Niyola and PatricKxxLee. Its production was handled by M.I, Tay Iwar, Chopstix, Major Bangz, TMXO, Doz, G Clef, Chillz, GMK and PatricKxxLee. Yung Denzel addresses topics such as depression, mental health, disloyalty and cultural repression. It explores themes of self-introspection, self-doubt and reassurance. The album was nominated for Best Rap Album at The Headies 2019.

<span class="mw-page-title-main">Mayorkun</span> Nigerian Musician

Adewale Mayowa Emmanuel, known professionally as Mayorkun, is a Nigerian singer, songwriter, pianist and dancer. He released a cover of Davido's "The Money" single and was discovered by the singer on Twitter. Mayorkun was signed to Davido's record label DMW from 2016 to 2021; his debut single "Eleko" was released under the label. Mayorkun released his debut studio album The Mayor of Lagos in November 2018. After his exit from DMW in 2021; he released "Let Me Know" and his second studio album Back In Office in October 2021, under Sony Music West Africa division.

<i>Oṣó</i> 2018 studio album by Brymo

Oṣó is the sixth studio album by Nigerian singer Brymo. It was released independently on 27 March 2018. The album was produced entirely by Mikky Me Joses and consists of 11 tracks, including three recorded in the Yoruba language. Oṣó is a mixture of Alternative folk and Yoruba music and has elements of mysticism; it sheds light on Brymo's folk and traditional roots. Oṣó was supported by the singles "Heya!" and "Bá’núsọ". It received critical acclaim from music critics, who complimented its production and Brymo's songwriting. The website Pulse Nigeria and Nigerian Entertainment Today ranked Oṣó second on their list of the best Nigerian albums of 2018.

<i>Moral Instruction</i> 2019 studio album by Falz

Moral Instruction is the fourth studio album by Nigerian rapper Falz. It was released on January 15, 2019, by Bahd Guys Entertainment. The album was recorded in Nigerian pidgin and samples musical recordings from Fela Kuti. Its production was primarily handled by Sess, with additional production from TMXO, Willis, and Chillz. The album features collaborations with Demmie Vee, Chillz and Sess. Moral Instruction addresses societal issues such as corrupt politicians, corruption, police brutality, prostitution, social injustice and internet fraud. The album's release was preceded by "Talk", a socio-conscious record that addresses critical events. The cover art for Moral Instruction was created by Nigerian artist Lemi Ghariokwu, a long-time Fela collaborator. The album won Best Rap Album and Album of the Year at The Headies 2019.

<i>Outside</i> (Burna Boy album) 2018 studio album by Burna Boy

Outside is the third studio album by Nigerian singer Burna Boy. It was released on January 26, 2018, through Spaceship Entertainment, Bad Habit and Atlantic Records. The album is the follow-up to his debut extended play Redemption (2016). Described by the singer as a mixtape, Outside consists mostly of Afrobeats, dancehall, reggae and road rap. It features guest vocals from English musicians J Hus, Lily Allen and Mabel. Outside was supported by six singles: "Rock Your Body", "Streets of Africa", "Koni Baje", "Sekkle Down", "Heaven's Gate" and "Ye". Its production was handled by various producers, including Juls, Leriq, P2J, Jae 5, FRED and Phantom.

<i>Odysseus</i> (album) 2017 studio album by Jesse Jagz

Odysseus is the fourth studio album by Nigerian rapper and record producer Jesse Jagz. It was released on September 8, 2017, by Jagz Nation. The album features guest appearances from Hotyce, Styl-Plus, Cynthia Morgan, Melon and Burna Boy. Prior to releasing the album, Jesse Jagz released a number of singles in 2017, including "Midnight Vibes" and "New World". "Best in You" was released as the album's lead and only single. Odysseus draws influences from Caribbean sounds, supporting the dancehall identity that Jesse Jagz embraced on his second studio album Jagz Nation, Vol. 1: Thy Nation Come (2013).

<span class="mw-page-title-main">Wetin We Gain</span> 2018 single by Victor AD

"Wetin We Gain" is a song by Nigerian singer and songwriter Victor AD. It was released by ETIN Records on June 17, 2018. The song peaked at number 3 on Africa Charts' list of the "Surprise Nigerian Hit Songs of 2018". The accompanying music video for "Wetin We Gain" has garnered over 12 million views on YouTube.

Zainab Elizabeth Donli, known as Lady Donli, is a Nigerian musician. She is an alternative R&B, hip hop, alternative jazz and Afrobeat singer and songwriter.

Bella Alubo is a Nigerian musician, alternative R&B, hip-hop singer and songwriter, formerly signed under Tinny Entertainment alongside Ycee.

Ayo Ayoku better known by his stage name Wani, is an American-Nigerian alté musician. In 2018, he came into the music scene with a widely acclaimed EP Lagos City Vice, with lead song "China Designer", a remake of Tekno's "Be", which became controversial in September 2019, after Sarz called him out, for his royalty, following the success of the song, reaching 1 million streams in July 2019.

References

  1. ↑ Idoko Salihu. "Top 10 Nigerian artistes to look out for in 2018". Premium Times. Retrieved 3 April 2018.
  2. ↑ Bakary Ceesay (22 January 2018). "Youssou N'Dour: Gambia has huge potential". Music-Africa. Retrieved 3 April 2018.
  3. ↑ "LadySmith Black Mambazo wins fifth Grammy award". CNN. 29 January 2018. Retrieved 2 February 2018.
  4. ↑ Fowell, Ian (30 March 2018). "Swaziland Win The First AfriMusic Song Contest". ESCCovers.
  5. ↑ Sam Wollaston (1 June 2018). "Africa: A Journey Into Music review – Nigeria's rich musical history is examined". The Guardian. Retrieved 13 June 2018.
  6. ↑ Euan Kerr (2018-08-16). "Minnesota Orchestra Honors Nelson Mandela By Bringing Music To South Africar". All Things Considered . National Public Radio . Retrieved 2018-09-22.
  7. ↑ "ALBUM REVIEW: 'OUTSIDE' — Burna Boy is a jerk, who is also a Genius". Medium. 5 February 2018. Retrieved 29 January 2019.
  8. ↑ Sabelo Mkhabelo (7 February 2018). "Professor Proves Jesus Is a Great Kwaito Composer In His Latest Album". Okay Africa. Retrieved 29 January 2019.
  9. ↑ Anupa Mistry (15 February 2018). "Zaki Ibrahim The Secret Life of Planets Album Review". Pitchfork. Retrieved 29 January 2019.
  10. ↑ "REVIEW: M.I Abaga's "Rendezvous" Is a Decent Crossroad Of Musical Diversity". Nigerian Entertainment Today. 2018-02-15. Retrieved 2019-06-14.
  11. ↑ Adriane Pontecorvo (27 February 2018). "Femi Kuti Wants to Unite the World on 'One People One World'". Pop Matters. Retrieved 29 January 2019.
  12. ↑ Kate Hutchinson (February 23, 2018). "Hailu Mergia: Lala Belu review – African accordion star still an original". The Guardian. Retrieved December 16, 2020.
  13. ↑ "Pape Diouf & La Generation Consciente". Womex. 6 March 2018. Retrieved 16 December 2020.
  14. ↑ Phillip Mlynar (6 March 2018). "Seun Kuti & Egypt 80: Black Times Album Review". Pitchfork. Retrieved 29 January 2019.
  15. ↑ "Singer releases 6th album "OṢÓ"". Pulse Nigeria. 28 March 2018. Retrieved 17 January 2019.
  16. 1 2 "Après le décès de N'goran la Loi, Allah Thérèse effondrée : "Je ne peux plus continuer sans lui"". abidjan.net. May 27, 2018. Retrieved December 6, 2018.
  17. ↑ Mosquito Records London (May 14, 2018). "Ike Moriz - Millennium Hits 2002 - 2018". Mosquito Records London News. Archived from the original on 2018-09-28. Retrieved 17 October 2020.
  18. ↑ Alex Ndace (31 May 2018). "Alex Ndace: An Exploration of Sounds and Diversified Genres… A Review of DJ Neptune's "Greatness" Album". BellaNaija . Retrieved 29 January 2019.
  19. ↑ Ehis Ohunyon (25 May 2018). "Adekunle Gold's About 30 is about growth, substance and good vibes". Pulse Nigeria. Retrieved 29 January 2019.
  20. ↑ Nokuthula Zwane (15 June 2018). "Zonke opens herself up with L.O.V.E". IOL. Retrieved 29 January 2019.
  21. ↑ "MI Abaga releases long-awaited Yung Denzel album". Music in Africa. 24 August 2018. Retrieved 29 January 2019.
  22. ↑ "Razia Releases New Album "The Road," On October 19, 2018". T4C. 19 October 2018. Retrieved 16 December 2020.
  23. ↑ Dennis Peter (13 November 2018). "Review: "Life Is Eazi, Volume 2- Lagos To London" Is A Loose Document Of Mr Eazi's Continued Rise". Nigerian Entertainment Today . Retrieved 29 January 2019.
  24. ↑ Ohunyon, Ehis (16 November 2018). "First listen take of Mayorkun's debut album, The Mayor of Lagos". Pulse NG. Retrieved 3 November 2019.
  25. ↑ "Lovedale Harmony (in memory of Siya Betana) (2017)". Michael Blake. Retrieved 1 February 2018.
  26. ↑ "Motsweding FM DJ Lara Kruger has died" . Retrieved 10 January 2018.
  27. ↑ Former Wenera actor dies in car crash
  28. ↑ "Family Statement – Hugh Masekela". hughmasekela.co.za. Retrieved 24 January 2018.
  29. ↑ "Ugandan musician Mowzey Radio dies". www.newvision.co.ug. Retrieved 2018-02-01.
  30. ↑ Ebony Reigns Dies In A Gory Motor Crash
  31. ↑ Dancehall star Shavey of the famed ‘Gyal’ hit song dies after being run over by matatu
  32. ↑ “Bubu Music” Pioneer Janka Nabay Has Died
  33. ↑ Nigerian reggae artist, Ras Kimono dies after brief illness
  34. ↑ France-based Algerian singer Rachid Taha dies at 59
  35. ↑ Musician Joseph Kamaru, 79, dies at MP Shah Hospital
  36. ↑ "Hip Hop veteran HHP has passed away". Archived from the original on 2018-10-24. Retrieved 2018-10-24.
  37. ↑ Zim’s original Pied Pipers member dies
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