Top 40 Pop Songs of 2017 By/Featuring African Queens ~ #TheYamboSelection

Introduction and Selection Criteria for Africa's Top Songs of 2017

After the belated publication of Africa's Top Songs for each of the years running from 2010 to 2013, the 2017 list now represents the eighth annual ranking in #TheYamboSelection series. The same criteria have been used this year (January to December 2017) as were used last year to select and rank the best pop songs out of those released or published during the year. The longest list of top songs had 25 titles in 2014, but this number has been set at 40 since 2015. 

Before the entire Top 40 list is released, smaller "vertical" segments are released as follows: Top 5, Top 10, Top 20 and Top 25 (particularly where we can't go from 20 straight to 40, for one reason or another). This is intended to facilitate subsequent online search by individuals who may be interested only in specific segments...READ MORE 

List of Top 40 Pop Songs of 2017 By/Featuring African Queens
[Note: Lists for earlier years appear at the bottom of this page]

Click on any listed song's title to watch the video.


40. Oh Na Na by Ang3lina (2017):

Ang3elina is obviously happy here singing her love song, Oh Na Na (as in Go Down). All the dancing we see reflects happy moods too. Love-induced happiness is imprinted in the lyrics.


39. Zahabu by Charly na Nina (2017): 

Zahabu (= Gold), a dance-song in three languages, is a happy song -- though less so than Mfata. Dancing bodies are variously happy bodies. Physically sick bodies don't routinely dance.


38. Kigori by Shilole (2017):

In Kigori, Shilole returns to allusions that flavored some of her past songs. Still, it emits happy vibes, after a fashion. You see that in the upbeat tune, and the body texts. All's ample here.


37. Unanimaliza by Ray C (2017):

Ray C's earlier works are well-remembered by those who heard them. In tone and mien, Unanimaliza (= you finish me), is back-to-the-future of sorts.The tune's good. Her eyes still finish folks.


36. Shuga by Mimi Mars (2017):

Shuga is a high-spirited love song, packed with tender feelings. Mimi Mars, the songstress, plays here the role of  a love-bird getting set to welcome her man (her Shuga) READ MORE 

35. Forever by Eazzy ft. Mr. Eazy (2017):

Forever is an altogether sunny duet, with relationship-enhancing lyrics. Ms. Eazzy puts all her heart into this thing, with easy moves and cat-like shout-outs. Mr. Eazi is solid rock.


34. Right Here by Juliana Kanyomozi (2017):

The theme in Juliana Kanyomozi's ballad, Right Here, is love. The song is an expression of constant love, wherever her man go. The music captures the free-flowing mood in the lyrics. 

33. Down by Quick Rocca ft. Mimi Mars (2017):

With Down, sung in both Swahili and English, Quick Rocka and Mimi Mars (both Tanzanian) deliver an engaging dance-floor hit. The tunes are superbly primed, with READ MORE



32. iNDE by HEAVY-K ft Bucie x Nokwazi (2017):

iNDE is a journey of the mind, a long Love Journey, across expansive landscapes and all those years gone. It's about defiance built on relived betrayals. Yet Love needs Love still. 


31. Up in the Air by Rosa Ree (2017):

The tunes and the beat that go with Rosa Ree's defiant and self-loving rap, Up in the Air, will draw warm attention from 'most everyone. This gives her the platform to take on READ MORE


30. Ezizweni by Mobi Dixon ft. Berita (2017):

Mobi Dickson is all cheer in Ezizweni. And so are we. It's in her beaming visage. In her period-piece vocals. And in her O so charming moves. She got rhythm, too. Barita must be that guy!


29. Suited by Shekhinah (2017):

Suited is a song of deepest commitment, earnestly sung by this iconic but still mysterious South African singer, Shekhinah. "Suited for each other", she declares to her lover, though she fears they may be just a little too young still READ MORE


28. Air by Di'Ja (2017):

Whistling Di'Ja is the reason for this journey, on which we find her. With a coterie of friends, she's soon singing about her onliest Air. Can't breathe without him. The tune's pretty good.


27. Hata Sielewi by MwanaFA ft. Maua Sama (2017):

Hata Sielewi ( = I don't really understand what you're saying) portrays the difficulties experienced when attempting to express love sentiments across language barriers READ MORE


26. Bebe by Nana Fofie (2017):

Bebe has an alluring beat, which brands the whole song. It grabs you (the whole of you) right away, with its moderate pace. It doesn't let go. We have high-definition READ MORE


25. Binkolera by Sheebah ft. The Ben (2017):

A rousing start to the singing, and the video, places Binkolera
heads-and-shoulders above many of its 'peers'. And we find Sheebah doing her usual naughty and devil-may-care stuff, seemingly without effort. Her majesty's voice, READ MORE


24. Fire by Diamond Platnumz ft. Tiwa savage (2017):


Diamond Platnumz and Tiwa Savage light a Fire that grabs our attention with its catchy tunes and upbeat delivery, and will not let go. All of that is raised notches higher by the other, the unmistakable, 'fire' which the coming together READ MORE


23. Bajaj by Navy Kenzo ft. Patoranking (2017):

As we hear in the song's refrain, the essential message which singers Navy Kenzo (the Tanzanian duo) and Patoranking (the Nigerian) push in Bajaj is: Never treat a woman like a bajaj. Make her feel special. Provide her with comfort. READ MORE


22. Usimwache by Lulu Diva (2017):

Usimwache ("Don't you leave him") is a friendly, feel-good song of advice. It sugarcoats improbable counsel to a friend contemplating parting ways with her beau. He, you didn't guess it, is the ex- of the one brokering the peace. Her point is: she regrets her own 'dumping' of this good man. Her friend shouldn't make the same (regrettable) mistake. Hey, she's the one saying it! Her earnest dream is to see their relationship blossom into deep and deeper affection -- and on to a wedding, even! She can't wait.


21. All Over by Tiwa Savage (2017):

All Over is anthem for a tropical/summertime interlude between summer this and summer next. Away from, well, everything. Tiwa and all dem gals be havin' a carefree fun fair in dreamland of their own. Men be pure abstraction, right now. Alright, all gift-wrapped in tender, ringing, goose-bumping tunefulness. Under blue-sky. Is all.


20. Do Me Good by ExQ ft. Lulu Diva (2017):


Do Me Good is a boisterous coming together of yin and yang. It's an imaginary, rough-edged expression of sub-Saharan attraction. The two singers, from Zimbabwe and Tanzania, give it their all. The optics are crisp, with just about one frill. And we have a great tune, in which to wrap up the whole do.


19. Green Light by Cuppy x Tekno (2017):

Cuppy and Tekno! They give us the Green Light to (Pom! Pom!) have a gooood and unforgettable time here. The beat goes! In goes on and on, nonstop, from the start to the fini. "Hold! Tease! Please!" It's all swaying and synchronous. All great phun. Pom! Pom!


18. Say What you Want by Siza ft. Eugy (2017):

While Eugy stays happily in the background, Siza, with her regal mien and enchanting eyes, stands out in Say What You Want. She has a rich array of sovereign vocal assets, which she deploys with not a jot of earthly ruffle. Among her 2017 royal peers, they're especially special. READ MORE


17. Tonight by Band Beca ft. Petra (2017):

In Tonight, which gives us nearly 5 minutes of silky funk, the youthful and self-assured Kenyans, Band Beca and Petra, sing like seasoned artistes, with seductive pauses and poses. It's hypnotizing, non-stop verve. They rap, too. It's exquisite rap, Joe! Deep-breath rapping. READ MORE  

16. Calée by Daphne (2017):

Multi-lingual Daphne, from Cameroon, sings Calée in a happy and obviously optimistic and romantic tone. The band delivers carefully composed sounds which go right along with the song's tone. It's all about 'puppy love' -- which the secondary school character READ MORE


15. To Dondwa by F'Victeam (2017):

Fally Ipupa is at it again with his friends in this 'journey' To Dondwa. Each has a turn in this up-beat song, rendered suavely in a sort of Lingala Pop. The dancing is noticeably rhythmic, with every dancing body swaying as one to fine music. This is not as easy to READ MORE 


14. Enjala by Sheebah ft. Cathy Patra x Rozmerie Atim x Vee Vicey (2017):

Enjala, one understands, means hunger; and it may mean nails or talons. As a song, Enjala will mean whatever suits Sheebah's fancy. How it's sung and accompanied and danced is a fine example of the pure naughtiness and dare-devilry which set (Queen) Sheebah READ MORE


13. China Love by Victoria Kimani ft. R. City (2017):

China Love is fine chinaware, so to speak, tastefully punctuated at eight cleverly timed points by a majestic command: GO! Still, the Great Question prompted by the song's title, before things clarify (some?), is: Is all this a "From China with Love" gig, or a READ MORE


12. Ofana Nawe by Mafikizolo ft. Yemi Alade (2017):

The song Ofana Nawe (meaning "There's no one like you") is easily misunderstood in certain circles as gospel, as we try to explain below; but it is not. Still, it might as well be, with just a slant in the lyrics. But there is no such a slant here. Here, it is a reaffirmation READ MORE


11. Ma Lo by Tiwa Savage ft. WizKid x Spellz (2017):

Ma Lo (My Love) is a definitive club banger sung by two iconic African artistes from Nigeria: Tiwa Savage, self-described as #1 "African Bad Girl", and WizKid. A mellow beat. A haute gig. Actually, TS isn't boasting, she's the baddest. Her rivals know it. WizKid? Well, he's Starboy!


10. Gone Forever by Chidinma (2017):

Somber background music sets off this mournful send-off for Mama, who is never going to come back. No one, sadly, does. Cries Chidinma: "If tears could bring you back,/I [would] cry you a river!" It is that anguished moment which no caring READ MORE


9. Kelele za Chura by Chege ft. Nandy (2017):

Tons of verve here! So much oomph! Kelele za Chura (Swahili phrase for frogs' croaking cacophony) is about the rock of love that ignores all prying eyes and treats all rumor as futile. Chege and the sultry lady, Nandy -- both Tanzanian -- give us O what a sunny t READ MORE


8. Kiba_100 by Rostam ft. Maua Sama (2017):

Gifted with such a precious voice as she has, Maua Sama (Summer Flower, if you want) is at the top of her game in this finely weaved song -- a song with what a drab title! We've seen her with 'Vee Money' in that blast of a song, Bounce, and know that more good stuff is to come. In Bounce, they were 'tussling' and baring their cute nails over a guy. Here, in Kiba_100, two guys swoon over her, in a futile attempt. Listen keenly, she'll make your day. She makes days.


7. 911 by Krizbeatz ft. Yemi Alade x Harmonize (2017):

As the video shows, the whole crew caught up in this 911 situation has contributed massively to its obvious and growing success. Everybody in it goes with the tastefully choreographed flow, and understated humour. Still, special mention must go to three individuals: Krizbeatz, Harmonize and Yemi Alade. One takes it that Krizbeatz it is who made the do at all possible. Never a mean feat. And so And so he must feel fully validated by the accolades that are flowing in. Yemi Alade is the most widely known of the three, and the heart of this...READ MORE


6. Your Matter by Seyi Shay ft. Eugy x Efosa (2017):

In "The Ballad at (as) the Core...", I pointed out that the dominant genre of modern African music in 2013-14 was the ballad. That's what the evidence I had seen told me. And I listed Seyi Shay, with her Jangilova, among African pop musicians whose songs were mostly about love and loneliness (and even 'aloneness') -- and loss. READ MORE


5. Bolingo Mabe by Anita Mwarabu ft. Innoss'B (2017):

In Bolingo Mabe (Lingala phrase for false, untrue or unfaithful Love), we renew our acquaintance with super-talented but unassuming Innoss'B, who hails from the DRC -- and speaks Swahili too. We last saw (and heard) him with Koffi Olomide in that blast of a song titled Elengi. Here he sings with his compatriot, sophisticated and self-confident Anita Mwarabu, who also speaks Swahili. That's a plus, for both. She sings in To Dondwa as well, with maestro Fally Ipupa and company. The theme in Bolingo Mabe READ MORE

4. Inspire by Nameless (2017):

Inspire has a truly inspiring tone and an amazingly sunny tune. Nameless, whom we will call Adam, has gone (to the Maasai Mara) and done it, all within sight of the great and imposing Kilimanjaro. This is without question his greatest song -- ever. And it just goes to show that great and greater potential and talent may lie untapped and perhaps unsuspected even in those who have already scaled heights. Nameless has obviously worked very hard to let us have Inspire, on a platter READ MORE


3. Bounce by Vanessa Mdee ft. Maua Sama x Tommy Flavour (2017):

Bounce features two Tanzanian Divas with smooth-as-silk voices, and a style and charm to match the whole do: Vanessa Mdee and Maua Sama. It might as well be summer in this suggestive video. Wait, it's always summer in coastal TZ! The third artiste, Tommy Flavour, lives up to his surname, looks like, with these gals, in a no-holds-barred but gentle and consensual threesome. He's the 'boy-toy'. He's the ball of string the cats 'fight' over in this giddily furnished and leisurely hideout -- this burudani. READ MORE


2. Esopi Yo by Awilo Longomba ft. Tiwa Savage (2017):

As a performer, Awilo Longomba hardly ever disappoints those who have become attached to his musical persona. Not in his vocal delivery. Not in his body texts. Not in his energy output. And not in the totality of his performance. In Esopi Yo, he delivers an exquisite act on a finely crafted set. The singing is mellow, the music superbly pitched. The ambience, inside a veritable 'chateau' somewhere in McCain's Arizona, is pure sapeurisme. The ebb and flow of body texts is haute art in motion. READ MORE


1. Africa Unite by Nsoki ft. DJ Maphorisa and DJ Paulo Alves(2017):

Seven years after Waka Waka (This Time for Africa), that iconic song sung and danced by Shakira and her South African companions at the 2010 FIFA World Cup, comes a worthy successor -- Africa Unite. The new song is sung by the equally fine and animated Nsoki, from Lusophone Angola. It is danced by her superbly choreographed dance-troupe. They are all so wonderfully 'backstopped' by the ever-resourceful DJ Maphorisa, and DJ Paulo Alves. The stage is a feline high-voltage affair from beginning to end. The singing makes READ MORE

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Links To Relevant Lists From Previous Years

Africa: 
1. Top 40 Pop Songs of 2016 By/Feat African Divas



East Africa: 
1. Top 40 Pop Songs of 2016 By/Feat East African Divas




NOTE: Irene Ntale's Stamina Daddy was belatedly deleted from this list after YouTube removed the video from public viewing.

Africa's Top 5 Pop Songs of 2014 ~ #TheYamboSelection

INTRODUCTION:

If one were to ask me, as I have already asked myself, to name Africa's best/top 25 popular singles released or published in 2014, here below would be, and is, my selection. My selections have a decidedly audio-visual focus, and so only rate music videos.

Of course, the naming of more than one 'like' inevitably prompts the question as to which 'like' comes first, and which next or last. In selecting and ranking my top African 'likes' -- I limit myself to Sub-Saharan Africa -- I have been broadly guided by the following six criteria (each on a scale of 1 - 5, with 5 being the highest score):
1. The creative appeal and musicality of the voice asset.
2. The choice and mastery of the musical instruments in play.
3. The poetic form and content of the lyrics.
4. The artistic and aesthetic depth of the video component.
5. The synchronic quality of the audio-visual product, in terms of: harmony, tone, melody, rhythm, beat and color display.
6. Based on the foregoing, how the entire single, from beginning to end, impresses me -- or makes me feel about my encounter with it. This criterion also serves as a qualitative tie-breaker; that is, a virtual 'casting vote' whenever any other criteria yield a quantitative tie.

RANKING THE SELECTION:

[Click on a Song's title to watch the video]

5. Johnny by Yemi Alade (2014):

You saw at the MTVMAMA2015 how Johnny gets to you at a public gathering. Does so too on radio, where I first heard it, with that distinctive (shall I say sexy?) Yemi Alade voice. A girl determined to get her Johnny (to behave) always wins hearts -- many, many more than she may lose.

4. Tchelete (Goodlife) by Davido ft. Mafikizolo (2014):

Lukadem go! Such spirited immersion in the song. Davido and Mafikizolo draw us all into this veritable trance -- this vortex of sound and sight.

3. Skelemba by Olamide ft. Don Jazzy (2015):

This Skelemba set is heavenly canvas, upon which to paint, with superstar Olamide and Maestro Don Jazzy, exquisite ocular-aural dreams. Read more

2. Peteru by Skuki ft. Olamide (2014):

Peteru is a wonderfully crafted music video, with a high level of artistry, Captivating, top-level dance routines by beautiful and super-confident girls. Yet it continues to be underrated by the fandom, but no matter.

1. Dorobucci by Mavins (2014):

Dorobucci has always scored big in my book, since I first heard it early this year. This, for example, is what I tweeted about Dorobucci on July 19, 2015:  ‏@MauriYambo Jul 19: #MTVMAMA2015Best Song of the Year is my favorite song of 2014, the one and only#Dorobucci, spearheaded by maestro #DonJazzy

Note: The above list was rearranged today (Feb 7, 2017) to start from 25th to 1st, and not from 1st to 25th. The post heading was also changed somewhat, though the core message remains the same.

Africa's Top 10 Pop Songs of 2014 ~ #TheYamboSelection

INTRODUCTION:

If one were to ask me, as I have already asked myself, to name Africa's best/top 25 popular singles released or published in 2014, here below would be, and is, my selection. My selections have a decidedly audio-visual focus, and so only rate music videos.

Of course, the naming of more than one 'like' inevitably prompts the question as to which 'like' comes first, and which next or last. In selecting and ranking my top African 'likes' -- I limit myself to Sub-Saharan Africa -- I have been broadly guided by the following six criteria (each on a scale of 1 - 5, with 5 being the highest score):
1. The creative appeal and musicality of the voice asset.
2. The choice and mastery of the musical instruments in play.
3. The poetic form and content of the lyrics.
4. The artistic and aesthetic depth of the video component.
5. The synchronic quality of the audio-visual product, in terms of: harmony, tone, melody, rhythm, beat and color display.
6. Based on the foregoing, how the entire single, from beginning to end, impresses me -- or makes me feel about my encounter with it. This criterion also serves as a qualitative tie-breaker; that is, a virtual 'casting vote' whenever any other criteria yield a quantitative tie.

RANKING THE SELECTION:

[Click on a Song's title to watch the video]

10. Fiko Fiko Fion by Claudia Bakisa ft. Koffi Olomide (2014):

All laid back, two great sophisticates join to drop a lovely track: Fiko Fiko Fion. Koffi Olomide reigns still, an unobtrusive monarch. Claudia Bakisa patiently waits, with pent-up energy, for Africa's playing field to level.


9. Wanted by Tiwa Savage (2014):


Isn't Tiwa, in Wanted, in deliberately fake semi-rudeness (yes, nudity!) to score a point? It's all very suggestive; a bold expose of her inner what? Self-confidence/doubt? Conflicts? She's here daring to dare all settled rules of proper public "appearance". Thus: "By the way, nothing you can do", "I'm better than you", "That's why I'm wanted". Ah, yes, about the music: It's enchanting, too. Same mold as Beyonce. Creatively, tastefully delivered. 

8. Double Wahalla Part 2 by Oritse Femi and D'Banj (2014):

In the honored tradition of the troubadour, Oritse Femi teams up with D'banj to offer us a delightful Double Wahala Part 2... They ask for silence, but there's no silence here. Non READ MORE 


7. Shekini by P-Square (2014):

Shekini is all about shakin' it -- the awesome, super-charged way. The song has a great, rousing beat. Fine dance moves, there. Superb choreography and sequencing. An enduring dance-hall banger. Quality video delivery, too. A visual feast. 

6. Ole Themba by Linah (2014):

Linah delivers a wonderfully, delightfully charming bouquet of colors and sound. And beauty. And verve. The dancing girls are a feast for the eye. The lyrics, in Kiswahili, are READ MORE

5. Johnny by Yemi Alade (2014):

You saw at the MTVMAMA2015 how Johnny gets to you at a public gathering. Does so too on radio, where I first heard it, with that distinctive (shall I say sexy?) Yemi Alade voice. A girl determined to get her Johnny (to behave) always wins hearts -- many, many more than she may lose.

4. Tchelete (Goodlife) by Davido ft. Mafikizolo (2014):

Lukadem go! Such spirited immersion in the song. Davido and Mafikizolo draw us all into this veritable trance -- this vortex of sound and sight.

3. Skelemba by Olamide ft. Don Jazzy (2015):

This Skelemba set is heavenly canvas, upon which to paint, with superstar Olamide and Maestro Don Jazzy, exquisite ocular-aural dreams. Read more

2. Peteru by Skuki ft. Olamide (2014):

Peteru is a wonderfully crafted music video, with a high level of artistry, Captivating, top-level dance routines by beautiful and super-confident girls. Yet it continues to be underrated by the fandom, but no matter.

1. Dorobucci by Mavins (2014):

Dorobucci has always scored big in my book, since I first heard it early this year. This, for example, is what I tweeted about Dorobucci on July 19, 2015:  ‏@MauriYambo Jul 19: #MTVMAMA2015 Best Song of the Year is my favorite song of 2014, the one and only #Dorobucci, spearheaded by maestro #DonJazzy

Note: The above list was rearranged today (Feb 7, 2017) to start from 25th to 1st, and not from 1st to 25th. The post's heading was also changed somewhat, though the core message remains the same. This is a re-posting, since the original one (posted prior to February 7, 2017) became inaccessible. 

Africa's Top 40 Pop Songs of 2017 ~ #TheYamboSelection

Introduction and Selection Criteria for Africa's Top Songs of 2017

After the belated publication of Africa's Top Songs for each of the years running from 2010 to 2013, the 2017 list now represents the eighth annual ranking in #TheYamboSelection series. The same criteria have been used this year (January to December 2017) as were used last year to select and rank the best pop songs out of those released or published during the year. The longest list of top songs had 25 titles in 2014, but this number has been set at 40 since 2015. 

Before the entirety of the Top 40 list is released, smaller "vertical" segments are released as follows: Top 5, Top 10, Top 20 and Top 25 (where we can't go from 20 straight to 40, for one reason or another). This is intended to facilitate subsequent online search by individuals who may be interested only in specific segments...READ MORE 

List of Africa's Top 40 Pop Songs of 2017 ~ #TYS

[Note: Lists for earlier years appear at the bottom of this page]

Click on a Song's Title to Watch the Video

40. Calée by Daphne (2017):

Multi-lingual Daphne, from Cameroon, sings Calée in a happy and obviously optimistic and romantic tone. The band delivers carefully composed sounds which go right along with the song's tone. It's all about 'puppy love' -- which the secondary school character READ MORE

39. Deja Vu by Burna Boy (2017):

Burna Boy's artistic persona stands apart from those of most of his African contemporaries. Deja Vu, once again, proves the point, but we have seen this creative force before, as in Soke. In Deja Vu, jazzy sounds do the accompaniment. The tunes READ MORE

38. To Dondwa by F'Victeam (2017):

Fally Ipupa is at it again with his friends in this 'journey' To Dondwa. Each has a turn in this up-beat song, rendered suavely in a sort of Lingala Pop. The dancing is noticeably rhythmic, with every dancing body swaying as one to fine music. This is not as easy to READ MORE

37. FIA by Davido (2017):

Davido is, 'like', ever-present. OK, pushing his Davido Music Worldwide. And it is DMW which pushes FIA here. He has a certain way he roars which distinguishes him from the rest in his 'industry'. You hear it in FIA. FIA is [ ] about the fire of love, rebound from READ MORE. 

36. Kirisense by Khaligraph Jones ft. Bruce Melodie (2017):

Kenya's Khaligraph Jones and Rwanda's Bruce Melodie are 'caged dudes' in a fraternal and boisterous duel (nay, duet), in this Coke Studio rendition of Kirisense. Papa Jones is here at his most intense, delivering a form of rapid-fire rap which is, already, the stuff of  READ MORE  

35. No Way by Pappy Kojo (2017):

From the start, No Way is served (and serves the ear) with sumptuous background music (the eye has its share, too, as we see). The whole 'sound-system', piano-anchored and spiced with subtle drumming, is a 'blast'. The inspired vocalist, Ghanaian Pappy Kojo, READ MORE

  
34. Enjala by Sheebah ft. Cathy Patra x Rozmerie Atim x Vee Vicey (2017):

Enjala, one understands, means hunger; and it may mean nails or talons. As a song, Enjala will mean whatever suits Sheebah's fancy.  How it's sung and accompanied and danced is a fine example of the pure naughtiness and dare-devilry which set (Queen) Sheebah READ MORE 

33. China Love by Victoria Kimani ft. R. City (2017):

China Love is fine chinaware, so to speak, tastefully punctuated at eight cleverly timed points by a majestic command: GO! Still, the Great Question prompted by the song's title, before things clarify (some?), is: Is all this a "From China with Love" gig, or a READ MORE 

32. Baby Girl by Cassper Nyovest (2017):

Baby Girl is a superb celebration of love by South African legend Cassper Nyovest. Vanessa Mdee, the Tanzanian Queen, is the official "Sugar, Sugar" here. She utters not a word in this massive and unforgettable do, which runs for all of 4:27 minutes. Must have READ MORE

31. Butterfly by Korede Bello (2017): 

Butterfly, she from a place unknown, is the "brand new specie" who catches Korede Bello's beaming and profuse attention, in this upbeat and tuneful song you will want to hear and hear. There's melody of diverse forms -- in the sounds and in the optics -- in this READ MORE 

30. Ofana Nawe by Mafikizolo ft. Yemi Alade (2017):

The song Ofana Nawe (meaning "There's no one like you") is easily misunderstood in certain circles as gospel, as we try to explain below; but it is not. Still, it might as well be, with just a slant in the lyrics. But there is no such a slant here. Here, it is a reaffirmation READ MORE



29. Ma Lo by Tiwa Savage ft. WizKid x Spellz (2017): 

Ma Lo (My Love) is a definitive club banger sung by two iconic African artistes from Nigeria: Tiwa Savage, self-described as #1 "African Bad Girl", and WizKid. A mellow beat. A haute gig. Actually, TS isn't boasting, she's the baddest. Her rivals know it. WizKid? Well, he's Starboy!

28. No Spine by Gabu (2017):

No Spine is a fine piece of music by rappin' Gabu and co (all Kenyans). He delivers his lines with the cerebral poise of a seasoned poet, or troubadour. He strings his words and allusions, and all that Nairobi slang, with fine care. And READ MORE

27. Love Again by C4Pedro ft. Sauti Sol (2017):

Love Again is a collaborative effort by two of Africa's top pop talents today: Angola's C4Pedro (remember him in spectacular Spetxa One? and Kenya's Sauti Sol (remember them in iconic Sura Yako?). Not surprisingly, Love Again is a READ MORE

26. Gone Forever by Chidinma (2017):

Somber background music sets off this mournful send-off for Mama, who is never going to come back. No one, sadly, does. Cries Chidinma: "If tears could bring you back,/I [would] cry you a river!" It is that anguished moment which no caring READ MORE


25. Fresh (Remix) by Fid Q ft. Diamond Platnumz x Rayvanny (2017):

A strumming guitar sets off this creatively imagined video. It anchors the beat all through this jamming affair by three Tanzanian stars. The beat in turn strings together a sequence -- nay, a veritable montage -- of sights, sounds and quintessential rap to deliver a musical feast. 

24. Particula by Major Lazer and DJ Maphorisa ft. Nasty C x Ice Prince x Patoranking x Jidenna (2017):

What sticks out in Particula is that such a prosaic word, which is even 'misspelt',  turns, with a  sleight of the (alchemists') hand, into the centerpiece for a fine and memorable aural experience. The lyrics as a whole (tethered to the word), and the vocal cords READ MORE 

23. Kababaye by Chin Bees (2017):

Chin Bees are an upstart group with all the self-assurance needed to get their voice heard on this increasingly star-studded continent of ours. Kababaye demonstrates that their art runs deep. It is only slightly less boisterous than Pepeta, but just as inspired -- and READ MORE 

22. Kelele za Chura by Chege ft. Nandy (2017): 

Tons of verve here! So much oomph! Kelele za Chura (Swahili phrase for frogs' croaking cacophony) is about the rock of love that ignores all prying eyes and treats all rumor as futile. Chege and the sultry lady, Nandy -- both Tanzanian -- give us O what a sunny t READ MORE


21. Here We Go by Gabu ft. Kristoff x Prezzo (2017):           

Here We Go is not a coming-out gig for a newly-discovered group of entertainers. It is a declaration of dominance by a known "force". Gabu, Kristoff (Yule Mluhya) and Prezzo are accomplished Kenyan rappers. But this song takes READ MORE

20. Makulusa by Rayvanny ft. Maphorisa x DJ Buckz (2017):

Let not Makulusa's briefly nonchalant start deceive you. Published just six days to last Christmas, it is the product of astute design. What with DJ Maphorisa and DJ Buckz on hand, this 'package' incorporates signature dance-routines from South Africa. But Tanzania's Rayvanny fits right in. He even belts a few lines in English. As what we see in this songs suggests, the musical scene is certainly in a state of ferment, all across sub-Sahara. There will be more ferments in the years ahead.

19. Kiba_100 by Rostam ft. Maua Sama (2017):

Gifted with such a precious voice as she has, Maua Sama (Summer Flower, if you want) is at the top of her game in this finely weaved song -- a song with what a drab title! We've seen her with 'Vee Money' in that blast of a song, Bounce, and know that more good stuff is to come. In Bounce, they were 'tussling' and baring their cute nails  over a guy. Here, in Kiba_100, two guys swoon over her, in a futile attempt. Listen keenly, she'll make your day. She makes days.

18. Pepeta by Chin Bees (2017):

Released in March 2017, and directed by Rahul Kumar Singh, Pepeta launches with what a dramatic beat! Chin Bees sustain it to the end, in this 3:00-minute spectacle. These youthful Tanzanian artistes, suddenly sprung upon the continental stage literally by storm, are a Tsunami dressed up in full hip-hop regalia. They are here plainly to assert their unbridled artistic presence. Is all. They might as well be from LA, if that's a useful allusion in any way. They have a "foreign accent" -- but what's "foreign" to world-beating post- READ MORE 

17. Baby Na Yoka by Mr. Flavour (2017):

In Baby Na Yoka, Mr. Flavour offers a distinctly summer fare. All around, the spirits are high and ready for a good time. The weather is at once sunny and 'tropical'. The crowd has the time. And Mr. Flavour inserts into this mix an explosive dose of Caribbean street-dance. By design, the singing is mostly Nigerian. And the flavour which envelopes the whole do is Afro, as only Mr. Flavour can make happen. All he wants to know is: What's Up! The rest of whatever he can make history. "Fire, baby, Fire!"



16. Enfant Beni by DJ Arafat (2017):

Enfant Beni has a very catchy beat, which is used sparingly. It has a tune which readily excites everyone's spirit, and which we hear almost throughout the song's 3:09 minutes. This is a very macho production, with distinct military memes, We see this in the vigour with which the actors execute their assigned roles, led by Ivorian DJ Arafat, and  in the dances associated with them. The dress-code is military. Only one female has a distinct dance role, which she performs with enthusiasm. It's all very crowd-friendly, and clearly generates a strong feel-good view of life. But it is only one song.

15. Kilamity by Sugar Boy ft. Kiss Daniel (2017):

Kilamity's powerful AfroBeat hits you as soon as the song begins. It is, indeed, how the song starts. It sets the song's (and its own) tone for all the 4:04 minutes we have, so to speak. If you know anything, already, about the duo of Sugar Boy and Kiss Daniel, you suspect that you're being set up in this song for something out of this (musical) world; that you're entitled exactly to what you're beginning to get. Plus more. In unexpected twists and turns of "phrase"... READ MORE 

14. 911 by Krizbeatz ft. Yemi Alade x Harmonize (2017):

As the video shows, the whole crew caught up in this 911 situation has contributed massively to its obvious and growing success. Everybody in it goes with the tastefully choreographed flow, and understated humour. Still, special mention must go to three individuals: Krizbeatz, Harmonize and Yemi Alade. One takes it that Krizbeatz it is who made the do at all possible. Never a mean feat. And so And so he must feel fully validated by the accolades that are flowing in. Yemi Alade is the most widely known of the three, and the heart of this...READ MORE

13. Mannequin by Fally Ipupa ft. KeBlack x Naza (2017):

In Mannequin, the catwalk rump isn't really for "the walk." That was a ruse everyone went along with, though a few do get to walk. Or perhaps those gathered there couldn't find a more appropriate venue for their purposes The real business in this music video is "talk". But everyone is agreed, it seems, that the talk shall be walked, without any strict "runway" rules. Still, everyone, aware of the venue, is dressed for the part they imagine will be theirs, when the "show" gets going READ MORE

12. Your Matter by Seyi Shay ft. Eugy x Efosa (2017):

In "The Ballad at (as) the Core...", I pointed out that the dominant genre of modern African music in 2013-14 was the ballad. That's what the evidence I had seen told me. And I listed Seyi Shay, with her Jangilova, among African pop musicians whose songs were mostly about love and loneliness (and even 'aloneness') -- and loss. READ MORE

11. Bad Things by Tenor (2017):

Bad Things is a very theatrically-oriented production, tastefully laid out. The collage of images which the 'bold' eyes (our eyes) feast on is put together with a sure hand. Let not Tenor's torching-laser eyes from another place scare anyone with you. And do call back any who may, nonetheless, have scampered as you were distracted. Tenor means no ill. It's all an act READ MORE

10. Tito Mboweni by Cassper Nyovest (2017):

The Tito Mboweni lyrics are a nugget for those who seek to more clearly understand Cassper Nyovest, South Africa's musical icon. They are an astute and poetic blending of English and Nyovest's 'home' (or ethnic) language -- Setswana. But that means that less than half of his message avails itself to folks who speak only Setswana or English -- that universal language which so many millions of us across the world and away from England have appropriated. We have even, in effect READ MORE 

9. Bolingo Mabe by Anita Mwarabu ft. Innoss'B (2017):

In Bolingo Mabe (Lingala phrase for false, untrue or unfaithful Love), we renew our acquaintance with super-talented but unassuming Innoss'B, who hails from the DRC -- and speaks Swahili too. We last saw (and heard) him with Koffi Olomide in that blast of a song titled Elengi. Here he sings with his compatriot, sophisticated and self-confident Anita Mwarabu, who also speaks Swahili. That's a plus, for both. She sings in To Dondwa as well, with maestro Fally Ipupa and company.  The theme in Bolingo Mabe READ MORE

8. Inspire by Nameless (2017):

Inspire has a truly inspiring tone and an amazingly sunny tune. Nameless, whom we will call Adam, has gone (to the Maasai Mara) and done it, all within sight of the great and imposing Kilimanjaro. This is without question his greatest song -- ever. And it just goes to show that great and greater potential and talent may lie untapped and perhaps unsuspected even in those who have already scaled heights. Nameless has obviously worked very hard to let us have Inspire, on a platter READ MORE

7. Bounce by Vanessa Mdee ft. Maua Sama x Tommy Flavour (2017):

Bounce features two Tanzanian Divas with smooth-as-silk voices, and a style and charm to match the whole do: Vanessa Mdee and Maua Sama. It might as well be summer in this suggestive video. Wait, it's always summer in coastal TZ! The third artiste, Tommy Flavour, lives up to his surname, looks like, with these gals, in a no-holds-barred but gentle and consensual threesome. He's the 'boy-toy'. He's the ball of string the cats 'fight' over in this giddily furnished and leisurely hideout -- this burudani. READ MORE

6. Zamba by Magasco ft. Jacques-Greg Belobo (2017):

For an explanation for this powerful song -- a lyrical narrative with an obvious religious slant -- one need not go further than Magasco's very own. As to whether it qualifies as a variant of pop, there's no simple answer. Certainly, the song Zamba (that is, God) is not pure Gospel. However, not being conversant with the surface and deeper import of many of the African phrases and lines sung in Zamba complicates matters. But here's what Magasco himself says. We classify the song as pop here. READ: The Zamba lyrics.

5. Esopi Yo by Awilo Longomba ft. Tiwa Savage (2017):

As a performer, Awilo Longomba hardly ever disappoints those who have become attached to his musical persona. Not in his vocal delivery. Not in his body texts. Not in his energy output. And not in the totality of his performance. In Esopi Yo, he delivers an exquisite act on a finely crafted set. The singing is mellow, the music superbly pitched. The ambience, inside a veritable 'chateau' somewhere in McCain's Arizona, is pure sapeurisme. The ebb and flow of body texts is haute art in motion.  READ MORE

4. Leg Over by Mr. Eazi (2017):

Leg Over is a great piece of music, with vocal and instrumental cords finely weaved and even more tastefully pitched. The two (voice and sound), heard so seamlessly as one, deliver a delightful audio experience. With his distinctive and powerful voice, Nigeria's Mr. Eazi is one of Africa's leading pop stars. His voice is a veritable 'tool' for cultural innovation. While the dancers whom we see in Leg Over give just as fine a show (and even look happy doing so), in harmony with the voice and the sounds, the video's overall mood rings READ MORE

3. Yeba by Kiss Daniel (2017):

In Lingala language, the word Yeba means to know, or to become acquainted with. The music which those of my generation grew up with (and were nourished by) in Nairobi, and other parts of Kenya and the larger East Africa, was mostly Congolese, rendered in Lingala -- with a sprinkling of French and even 'broken' Swahili (nuggets of the latter which it was fun to rummage for). All too often, in the course of the lyrics, one would hear the intriguing word READ MORE 

2. Man's Not Hot  by Big Shaq (2017):

Big Shaq ain't Shaq (Shaquille O'Neal) by any stretch. But, by some accounts, Shaq suspects that Big Shaq is belittling him; insinuating that Shaq ain't 'hot' (that is, "cool") or big enough (that is, big) any more. What's more, he's scheming rather loudly to take Shaq's inalienable name -- even if the 'alien' is the newly-arrived Big Shaq himself. Meanwhile, Big Shaq markets his brand as not hot at all -- as never hot, in fact; but rather, by some kind of super-providential twist(er), Shaq's ordained successor -- nay, 're-placer'. He's READ MORE


1. Africa Unite by Nsoki ft. DJ Maphorisa and DJ Paulo Alves(2017):

Seven years after Waka Waka (This Time for Africa), that iconic song sung and danced by Shakira and her South African companions at the 2010 FIFA World Cup, comes a worthy successor -- Africa Unite. The new song is sung by the equally fine and animated Nsoki, from Lusophone Angola. It is danced by her superbly choreographed dance-troupe. They are all so wonderfully 'backstopped' by the ever-resourceful DJ Maphorisa, and DJ Paulo Alves. The stage is a feline high-voltage affair from beginning to end. The singing makes  READ MORE



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Links To Relevant Lists From Previous Years

Africa:
1. Africa's Top 20 Pop Songs of 2016
2. Africa's Top 25 Pop Songs of 2015
3. Africa's Top 25 Pop Songs of 2013 
4. Africa's Top 25 Pop Songs of 2012
5. Africa's Top 25 Pop Songs of 2011
6. Africa's Top 25 Pop Songs of 2010

East Africa:
1. East Africa's Top 20 Pop Songs of 2016

2. East Africa's Top 20 Pop Songs of 2015