Saturday, February 17, 2018
'Nakupenda' by Le Band ft Khaligraph Jones is Vuuuumbi!
Nakupenda (Trans. "I Love You") is red hot, 'deep urban' stuff! Le Band is master of all the fire that's coming our way with so much gusto, nonstop. All funk and go go go, it leads the way into the very heart of this jama mama. Just so much energy and self-belief! The beat don't stop in this soaring dance hall banger, and it's hip hop all the way.
Khaligraph Jones' presence and his finely timed interjections add plenty of magic to the day's do. The street dance by all them guys, driven by desire, is admirable and fun to watch on a sunny Nairobi day. And the sistas, all 'built up', dance like ninjas from some distant place nobody can figure out just yet. Left agape and agog, Le Band can only plead:
"Sister Dada
Densi kidogo
Nengua kiuno sakata kidogo"
In this they echo, perhaps, the Dadaists of a century ago -- who knows. Still, their prayers be heard: "Yelele Mamama".
Click here to watch the video
And here are the Nakupenda lyrics
PS: Film Directed by Moses Osidiana
"Fantastic", by Radio and Weasel, is a Fantastical Do
Fantastic, a 2012 single produced on clearly minimalist ideas, is simply the most fantastical that I've ever seen. There are no fancy or manufactured visual effects or tricks to embellish it. There's thus no similarity, along the lines that we saw more recently, with that mesmerizing production, King Kong Remix. It's all natural, and madly creative.
Click to watch the Fantastic video
Bodies do here what only supple bodies can, and dance moves challenge belief and preloaded mind-pictures, and yet in truly avant-garde styles. Someone does a half-somersault and lands upside-down (staying put for seconds) -- head on the hard ground and legs up in the air -- without snapping his neck.
And then there's that lady we have seen in a couple of R+W tracks. Liters of milk poured and pouring down her mammary glands, 'willingly', and on to her belly button and places beyond. Allusion, perhaps(?), to an obscure ritual we know not of. But it's just as probable that this was simply the 'theatrical' concoction of one artiste's fertility idea. Or awesomely fertile mind.
The music is intense, from the first second to the last. So is all the dancing, and the synchronized toing and froing. The beat is magical, to the very last key. The voices are wonderfully primed for the happening, and are a distinct happening themselves. There is a thin story-line, and yet the story we have is thick with tantalizing memes. But nothing in it suggests that the characters played by R+W were in a fugitive mode akin to the imagery in their more recent offering -- "Done, Done". And they do get caught here, and loosely tied up. More "theater", then.
Click to read the Lyrics
Click to watch the Fantastic video
Bodies do here what only supple bodies can, and dance moves challenge belief and preloaded mind-pictures, and yet in truly avant-garde styles. Someone does a half-somersault and lands upside-down (staying put for seconds) -- head on the hard ground and legs up in the air -- without snapping his neck.
And then there's that lady we have seen in a couple of R+W tracks. Liters of milk poured and pouring down her mammary glands, 'willingly', and on to her belly button and places beyond. Allusion, perhaps(?), to an obscure ritual we know not of. But it's just as probable that this was simply the 'theatrical' concoction of one artiste's fertility idea. Or awesomely fertile mind.
The music is intense, from the first second to the last. So is all the dancing, and the synchronized toing and froing. The beat is magical, to the very last key. The voices are wonderfully primed for the happening, and are a distinct happening themselves. There is a thin story-line, and yet the story we have is thick with tantalizing memes. But nothing in it suggests that the characters played by R+W were in a fugitive mode akin to the imagery in their more recent offering -- "Done, Done". And they do get caught here, and loosely tied up. More "theater", then.
Click to read the Lyrics
Friday, February 16, 2018
Go Down by Yemi Alade
Go Down, Yemi Alade's latest single, is a knock-out in all respects. All. The beat is red HOT. It's a banger. The tune is finely keyed and all-alluring. The singing is double all of that, as Yemi surprises everyone, one suspects, as she confidently breaks out of her recent 'formula' and comfort zone. She'll have to explain herself how it all happened.
The dancing fits right in, and everyone we see is wonderfully upbeat in those finest of threads. What fine moves, altogether! The whole thing is truly top-notch. Fact is, it starts hot and ends hotter. Yemi, coiffed to perfection, leads her pack with passion. There's rousing melody in her superbly, and newly, tuned voice. She's possessed here, and all eyes (guys eyes in 'particula') will possess her in return.
These are early days still, but one suspects that Go Down (published in January 2018) is going to be a top contender with fans all across the continent this year. Yemi herself must surely be super pleased with what she's gone and done with her re-tooled voice, and all. Bravo! Bravo, too, to Director Paul Gambit -- without whom...
Click to watch the video
And click here for the Lyrics
Click to watch the video
And click here for the Lyrics
Kasiva Mutua ~ Africa's Drummer Queen
Kasiva Mutua is the real African Drummer Queen. She didn't get her crown on a silver platter, nor was she born with a silver spoon in her mouth. Her artistry is the result of hard work and a penchant for hearing things and playing them; playing hidden sounds -- and breaking invisible barriers and fantastical glass ceilings.
Many viewers perhaps first saw glimpses of her doings -- her drumming, spiced with all that passion and all those poses -- at the 2017 Coke Studio Africa, backstopping performers like Bruce Melodie, Khaligraph Jones and DJ Maphorisa in their Don't Know rap(ture). But the 'crowd' didn't know just who that accomplished and so cheerful a drummer, a female one, might be:
Here, watch that video again
It wasn't until CNN did a feature on her in January 2018 that she was at last named and comprehensively unveiled before a large and intrigued public.
Watch: Kasiva, a Life Story (CNN)
But she's been around for a while, before that unveiling. Real talent isn't just suddenly born -- fully formed. Much gestation goes on under the radar long before, as Kasiva's life story illustrates.Watch, for example, a video of Kasiva tuning her drums in 2013
We will surely be seeing and hearing more of her and her art in the years ahead.
ENCORE: Let's watch this 2013 Jam
Many viewers perhaps first saw glimpses of her doings -- her drumming, spiced with all that passion and all those poses -- at the 2017 Coke Studio Africa, backstopping performers like Bruce Melodie, Khaligraph Jones and DJ Maphorisa in their Don't Know rap(ture). But the 'crowd' didn't know just who that accomplished and so cheerful a drummer, a female one, might be:
Here, watch that video again
It wasn't until CNN did a feature on her in January 2018 that she was at last named and comprehensively unveiled before a large and intrigued public.
Watch: Kasiva, a Life Story (CNN)
But she's been around for a while, before that unveiling. Real talent isn't just suddenly born -- fully formed. Much gestation goes on under the radar long before, as Kasiva's life story illustrates.Watch, for example, a video of Kasiva tuning her drums in 2013
We will surely be seeing and hearing more of her and her art in the years ahead.
ENCORE: Let's watch this 2013 Jam
"Take You Home" by Radio and Weasel
In this 2013 reggae piece, Take You Home, Radio and Weasel sing their hearts out to a disdainful damsel they earnestly plead to take home -- an unspecified home whose location each of them nevertheless imagines would be the easiest thing.
In the video, she's at first playing hard to get with a persistent Radio -- who happens to be a fifth or a sixth shorter than she. But he's a persister, and is in any case the one driving the story-line here.
Click here to watch this iconic video
Take You Home is a lighthearted and even playful song on a clammy day. It is driven by its own catchy and delightful melody, which also steers the centrifugal churn of them moving and turning and forward-leaning bodies. All of them happy bodies!
Top 25 Happiest Songs of 2017 By or Featuring East 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 (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
This is the fourth annual edition of #TheYamboSelection, presenting the full list of Africa's Top 40 Happiest Songs of 2017. The same criteria are used this year (January to December 2017) as were used last year to select and rank, out of the songs released or published during the year, those that project and/or elicit the highest quotient of happiness in the listener/audience.
With all the talent that keeps popping up all across Africa, it has been no less daunting a task this year to put together this list. Having more to pick from does not necessarily mean a greater leeway in doing so, one finds, as there's even more, regrettably, to let go that should be in. But all lists of quality do have a 'genetic' limit of sorts, one hazards to add, in the sense of how long, how elongated, they can possibly be -- and still remain optimal and (common)sensible. So, as we look ahead, one senses that this list is fast approaching a certain limit one cannot breach.
As before, the focus in this series of lists is the song, not the singer, with the added requirement that only songs in video form qualify. In addition, the song must broadly fit the standard definition of popular (or pop) music; that is, music in any of these distinct genres, or any combination of them: Hip Hop, RnB, rap, reggae or rock. We are not dealing here with gospel, classical or traditional music; although borderline cases or creative partial 'fusions' with them will always be considered.
HERE, THEN, THE LISTING AND RANKING OF TOP 25 HAPPIEST SONGS OF 2017 BY OR FEATURING EAST AFRICAN QUEENS ~ #YaSE
25. 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 READ MORE
24. Face to Face by Charly na Nina (2017):
Fine tunes accompany this Charly na Nina song. A cheerful beat and the call to hot-blooded guys, "Be my guy", will be too inviting for certain types already enticed with subtle melody.
23. Yegwe Munange by Serena Bata (2017):
Yegwe Munange (= It's you, Babe) is more than the usual music video offering. It has a distinctive visual-arts orientation, as if the product of a self-respecting School of READ MORE
22. Only You by Amber Lulu (2018):
A rousing tune invites all to this jam session filled with pleasant sounds and "brave" visuals. Amber Lulu is fully engaged in this beat filled act. It ends too soon, alas, at 2:44 minutes.
[Note: Lists for earlier years appear at the bottom of this page]
Click on a Song's title to watch the video:
Click on a Song's title to watch the video:
25. 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 READ MORE
24. Face to Face by Charly na Nina (2017):
Fine tunes accompany this Charly na Nina song. A cheerful beat and the call to hot-blooded guys, "Be my guy", will be too inviting for certain types already enticed with subtle melody.
23. Yegwe Munange by Serena Bata (2017):
Yegwe Munange (= It's you, Babe) is more than the usual music video offering. It has a distinctive visual-arts orientation, as if the product of a self-respecting School of READ MORE
22. Only You by Amber Lulu (2018):
A rousing tune invites all to this jam session filled with pleasant sounds and "brave" visuals. Amber Lulu is fully engaged in this beat filled act. It ends too soon, alas, at 2:44 minutes.
21. Ya Nini by Alicios and Khaligaph Jones (2017):
Ya Nini, sung in both Swahili and Lingala as well as some English, is a fusion of rap (infused with Sheng) and a rousing version of Lingala Pop. It is a sort of Eastlands READ MORE
20. Dede by Mimi Mars (2017):
A relaxed and confident Mimi sings an adorable song here, about all those hard-to-express love feelings that felt Love easily engenders. It has a lovely tone, too, which READ MORE
19. Unanimaliza by Ray C (2017):
Ray C's early 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 men.
18. John Rambo by Sheebah (2017):
John Rambo is Sheebah's latest personification of her love-idea. He's a good excuse for fine and suggestive moves and postures, as well as lovey lyrics. And she's of course READ MORE
17. 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
16. Weekend by Sheebah ft. Runtown (2017):
Weekend -- Wikendi, if you like -- as sung by Sheebah and Runtown, is a superb collaboration between two musical pillars in Uganda and Nigeria. The video invokes READ MORE
15. 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 READ MORE
14. Attention by Vivian ft. Redsan (2017):
Attention is a cheerful song by two Kenyan artistes. It fuses two genres -- Genge (Vivian) and Reggae (Redsan). It is energetic and fun -- with cheerful voices and engaging dance-hall tunes.
13. Give it to Me by Lulu Diva (2017):
Lulu Diva's puff-puffing, equatorial train-ride is as a fine an excuse as you can get for another kind of journey she's prepared just for you (guys): a seductive and READ MORE
12. Tukiggale by Eddy Yawe ft. Carol Nantongo (2017):
Tukiggale (= "Let's [get] close") is a song full of cheer, and such an enjoyable 'moment'. Every second of it is a thrill, and every thrill cascades. It shares out ample servings of READ MORE
11. 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 READ MORE
10. 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, READ MORE
9. 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 READ MORE
8. Down by Quick Rocka 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 a READ MORE
7. Mfata by Charly na Nina (2017):
In Mfata, the Charly na (= and) Nina duo from Rwanda sings a very cheerful and quick-paced song in perfect harmony of voice, and dances in wonderful synchronicity READ MORE
6. 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 READ MORE
5. Babiee by Avril ft. A Pass
Babiee showcases the fine talents of two classy artistes from East Africa -- she from Kenya and he from Uganda. They deliver the lyrics... and the totality of this READ MORE
4. Tonight The Band Beca x Petra (2017):
In Tonight, which gives us nearly 5 minutes of silky funk, the youthful and self-assured Kenyans, Band Beca, sing like seasoned artistes, with seductive pauses and READ MORE
3. 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 READ MORE
2. 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 READ MORE
1. 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 READ MORE
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Links To Relevant Lists From Previous Years:
1. Africa's 40 Happiest Songs of The Year, 2016
[Follow Mauri Yambo]
Top 20 Happiest Songs of 2017 By or Featuring East 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 (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
This is the fourth annual edition of #TheYamboSelection, presenting the full list of Africa's Top 40 Happiest Songs of 2017. The same criteria are used this year (January to December 2017) as were used last year to select and rank, out of the songs released or published during the year, those that project and/or elicit the highest quotient of happiness in the listener/audience.
With all the talent that keeps popping up all across Africa, it has been no less daunting a task this year to put together this list. Having more to pick from does not necessarily mean a greater leeway in doing so, one finds, as there's even more, regrettably, to let go that should be in. But all lists of quality do have a 'genetic' limit of sorts, one hazards to add, in the sense of how long, how elongated, they can possibly be -- and still remain optimal and (common)sensible. So, as we look ahead, one senses that this list is fast approaching a certain limit one cannot breach.
As before, the focus in this series of lists is the song, not the singer, with the added requirement that only songs in video form qualify. In addition, the song must broadly fit the standard definition of popular (or pop) music; that is, music in any of these distinct genres, or any combination of them: Hip Hop, RnB, rap, reggae or rock. We are not dealing here with gospel, classical or traditional music; although borderline cases or creative partial 'fusions' with them will always be considered.
HERE, THEN, THE LISTING AND RANKING OF TOP 20 HAPPIEST SONGS OF 2017 BY OR FEATURING EAST AFRICAN QUEENS ~ #YaSE
[Note: Lists for earlier years appear at the bottom of this page]
Click on a Song's title to watch the video:
Click on a Song's title to watch the video:
20. Dede by Mimi Mars (2017):
A relaxed and confident Mimi sings an adorable song here, about all those hard-to-express love feelings that felt Love easily engenders. It has a lovely tone, too, which READ MORE
19. Unanimaliza by Ray C (2017):
Ray C's early 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 men.
18. John Rambo by Sheebah (2017):
John Rambo is Sheebah's latest personification of her love-idea. He's a good excuse for fine and suggestive moves and postures, as well as lovey lyrics. And she's of course READ MORE
17. 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
16. Weekend by Sheebah ft. Runtown (2017):
Weekend -- Wikendi, if you like -- as sung by Sheebah and Runtown, is a superb collaboration between two musical pillars in Uganda and Nigeria. The video invokes READ MORE
15. 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 READ MORE
14. Attention by Vivian ft. Redsan (2017):
Attention is a cheerful song by two Kenyan artistes. It fuses two genres -- Genge (Vivian) and Reggae (Redsan). It is energetic and fun -- with cheerful voices and engaging dance-hall tunes.
A relaxed and confident Mimi sings an adorable song here, about all those hard-to-express love feelings that felt Love easily engenders. It has a lovely tone, too, which READ MORE
19. Unanimaliza by Ray C (2017):
Ray C's early 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 men.
18. John Rambo by Sheebah (2017):
John Rambo is Sheebah's latest personification of her love-idea. He's a good excuse for fine and suggestive moves and postures, as well as lovey lyrics. And she's of course READ MORE
17. 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
16. Weekend by Sheebah ft. Runtown (2017):
Weekend -- Wikendi, if you like -- as sung by Sheebah and Runtown, is a superb collaboration between two musical pillars in Uganda and Nigeria. The video invokes READ MORE
15. 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 READ MORE
14. Attention by Vivian ft. Redsan (2017):
Attention is a cheerful song by two Kenyan artistes. It fuses two genres -- Genge (Vivian) and Reggae (Redsan). It is energetic and fun -- with cheerful voices and engaging dance-hall tunes.
13. Give it to Me by Lulu Diva (2017):
Lulu Diva's puff-puffing, equatorial train-ride is as a fine an excuse as you can get for another kind of journey she's prepared just for you (guys): a seductive and READ MORE
12. Tukiggale by Eddy Yawe ft. Carol Nantongo (2017):
Tukiggale (= "Let's [get] close") is a song full of cheer, and such an enjoyable 'moment'. Every second of it is a thrill, and every thrill cascades. It shares out ample servings of READ MORE
11. 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 READ MORE
10. 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, READ MORE
9. 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 READ MORE
8. Down by Quick Rocka 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 a READ MORE
7. Mfata by Charly na Nina (2017):
In Mfata, the Charly na (= and) Nina duo from Rwanda sings a very cheerful and quick-paced song in perfect harmony of voice, and dances in wonderful synchronicity READ MORE
6. 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 READ MORE
5. Babiee by Avril ft. A Pass
Babiee showcases the fine talents of two classy artistes from East Africa -- she from Kenya and he from Uganda. They deliver the lyrics... and the totality of this READ MORE
4. Tonight The Band Beca x Petra (2017):
In Tonight, which gives us nearly 5 minutes of silky funk, the youthful and self-assured Kenyans, Band Beca, sing like seasoned artistes, with seductive pauses and READ MORE
3. 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 READ MORE
2. 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 READ MORE
1. 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 READ MORE
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Links To Relevant Lists From Previous Years:
1. Africa's 40 Happiest Songs of The Year, 2016
[Follow Mauri Yambo]
Thursday, February 15, 2018
Top 10 Happiest Songs of 2017 By or Featuring East 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 (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
This is the fourth annual edition of #TheYamboSelection, presenting the full list of Africa's Top 40 Happiest Songs of 2017. The same criteria are used this year (January to December 2017) as were used last year to select and rank, out of the songs released or published during the year, those that project and/or elicit the highest quotient of happiness in the listener/audience.
With all the talent that keeps popping up all across Africa, it has been no less daunting a task this year to put together this list. Having more to pick from does not necessarily mean a greater leeway in doing so, one finds, as there's even more, regrettably, to let go that should be in. But all lists of quality do have a 'genetic' limit of sorts, one hazards to add, in the sense of how long, how elongated, they can possibly be -- and still remain optimal and (common)sensible. So, as we look ahead, one senses that this list is fast approaching a certain limit one cannot breach.
As before, the focus in this series of lists is the song, not the singer, with the added requirement that only songs in video form qualify. In addition, the song must broadly fit the standard definition of popular (or pop) music; that is, music in any of these distinct genres, or any combination of them: Hip Hop, RnB, rap, reggae or rock. We are not dealing here with gospel, classical or traditional music; although borderline cases or creative partial 'fusions' with them will always be considered.
HERE, THEN, THE LISTING AND RANKING OF TOP 10 HAPPIEST SONGS OF 2017 BY OR FEATURING EAST AFRICAN QUEENS ~ #YaSE
10. Usimwache by Lulu Diva (2017):
[Note: Lists for earlier years appear at the bottom of this page]
Click on a Song's title to watch the video:
Click on a Song's title to watch the video:
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, READ MORE
9. 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 READ MORE
8. Down by Quick Rocka 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 a READ MORE
7. Mfata by Charly na Nina (2017):
In Mfata, the Charly na (= and) Nina duo from Rwanda sings a very cheerful and quick-paced song in perfect harmony of voice, and dances in wonderful synchronicity READ MORE
6. 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 READ MORE
5. Babiee by Avril ft. A Pass
Babiee showcases the fine talents of two classy artistes from East Africa -- she from Kenya and he from Uganda. They deliver the lyrics... and the totality of this READ MORE
4. Tonight The Band Beca x Petra (2017):
In Tonight, which gives us nearly 5 minutes of silky funk, the youthful and self-assured Kenyans, Band Beca, sing like seasoned artistes, with seductive pauses and READ MORE
3. 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 READ MORE
2. 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 READ MORE
1. 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 READ MORE
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Links To Relevant Lists From Previous Years:
1. Africa's 40 Happiest Songs of The Year, 2016
[Follow Mauri Yambo]
Top 5 Happiest Songs of 2017 By or Featuring East 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 (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
This is the fourth annual edition of #TheYamboSelection, presenting the full list of Africa's Top 40 Happiest Songs of 2017. The same criteria are used this year (January to December 2017) as were used last year to select and rank, out of the songs released or published during the year, those that project and/or elicit the highest quotient of happiness in the listener/audience.
With all the talent that keeps popping up all across Africa, it has been no less daunting a task this year to put together this list. Having more to pick from does not necessarily mean a greater leeway in doing so, one finds, as there's even more, regrettably, to let go that should be in. But all lists of quality do have a 'genetic' limit of sorts, one hazards to add, in the sense of how long, how elongated, they can possibly be -- and still remain optimal and (common)sensible. So, as we look ahead, one senses that this list is fast approaching a certain limit one cannot breach.
As before, the focus in this series of lists is the song, not the singer, with the added requirement that only songs in video form qualify. In addition, the song must broadly fit the standard definition of popular (or pop) music; that is, music in any of these distinct genres, or any combination of them: Hip Hop, RnB, rap, reggae or rock. We are not dealing here with gospel, classical or traditional music; although borderline cases or creative partial 'fusions' with them will always be considered.
HERE, THEN, THE LISTING AND RANKING OF TOP 5 HAPPIEST SONGS OF 2017 BY OR FEATURING EAST AFRICAN QUEENS ~ #YaSE
[Note: Lists for earlier years appear at the bottom of this page]
Click on a Song's title to watch the video:
Click on a Song's title to watch the video:
5. Babiee by Avril ft. A Pass
Babiee showcases the fine talents of two classy artistes from East Africa -- she from Kenya and he from Uganda. They deliver the lyrics... and the totality of this READ MORE
4. Tonight The Band Beca x Petra (2017):
In Tonight, which gives us nearly 5 minutes of silky funk, the youthful and self-assured Kenyans, Band Beca, sing like seasoned artistes, with seductive pauses and READ MORE
3. 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 READ MORE
2. 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 READ MORE
1. 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 READ MORE
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Links To Relevant Lists From Previous Years:
1. Africa's 40 Happiest Songs of The Year, 2016
[Follow Mauri Yambo]
After the Dog Year, Comes the Year of the Pig
The Chinese Lunar Year of the Dog starts on February 16, 2018 (see source). It's "the year of bad luck". President Donald Trump, born in a Lunar Year of the Dog, is thus a Dog. Al Jazeera highlights the fact that Beijing hasn't missed the chance to associate The Dog with The Donald (Watch this video).
It's a giant Dog with intriguing Donald hair. The video reports further that during last year's two-week celebrations, "around 400 million [people] traveled [home] by train".
I'm more interested in the Pig, not the Dog. It so happens that next year, 2019, will be the Year of the Pig. I'm a Pig. But you don't have to wait till then to know what's cooking for a Pig, right now. Here's how fortune tellers portray, and more specifically tell the 2018 'fortunes' of, People Born in the Year of the Pig. You, a Pig! Muaha.
Click here to know the animal associated with the year you were born in. Happy Holidays, y'all!
PS: Animals Got Talent
Click here to know the animal associated with the year you were born in. Happy Holidays, y'all!
PS: Animals Got Talent
Wednesday, February 14, 2018
Gidi Gidi Maji Maji's 'Many Faces'
"Many faces, many phrases,
I've come through many places,
But I never seen a sky so blue" ~ Gidi Gidi Maji Maji
Many Faces is a 2003 song that, at face value, brings back many memories of the political and social ferment, in Kenya particularly, of the first decade of this millennium. It is, in a way, emblematic of the Great Leap which many felt that they were perforce involved in. That is, the subliminal and hugely rare 'transition' from one millennium to the next. More locally, Kenya was in the unfinished transition back to multipartyism. Gigi Gidi Maji Maji, with others, led the artistic fraternity into a broad-based struggle.
There's great melody in the singing, and in the guitarist's stringplay. The tone that runs through the whole song stirs the soul, truly. It takes grip of the spirit, and doesn't let go. It's really, really good. And the art in Gidi Gidi Maji Maji's performance doesn't begin and end with 'Many Faces'. They excel in other songs as well, such as: Ting' Badi Malo and Unbwogable. You be the judge. And yet they have since literally disappeared from the 'field'!
Click here to watch the 2003 version of the video
And here is the clearer, 2011 version of the video
As for the video, Many Faces is set in a hauntingly sunny and desolate place. It's a place like no other, and the singer has "never seen a sky so blue". The story starts with two soldierly types emerging with some relief and even euphoria from the vicinity of a nowhere reservoir, like survivors of a nearly-decimated platoon -- or pop. The 'past' thus behind them, they 'appear' more than glad to be egged forward into the new millennium by a muse-fairy, with striking outlines, strumming an ethereal note with her one-of-a-kind guitar. They walk with a kind of baffling konifidens.
The montage of people, places and things that the video packs -- into all of 3:41 minutes -- gives the impression (illusion) of paintings or murals eerily set in motion by a force-field deep inside a story that's cryptically and haltingly told in hauntingly lyrical lyrics. It is, alas, a story that inconclusively unfolds.
As hopeful as the singing is, in parts, this is an indubitable place of desolation. Like a bombed-out place. Our eyes even 'come upon' what looks like an abandoned nuclear power plant, and some kind of cleansing ritual, or ghost-dancing, in a never-never section of it. These are allusions to an unspeakable thing. Like another bombe coming? What happened, in this 'future'!
READ: What You Didn't Know about Gidi Gidi Maji Maji
READ: Interview with Gidi Gidi Maji Maji's James Ogidi
UPDATE: The 2003 version of "Many Faces" had 50,770 total views as at 1:28 AM on Feb 14, 2018. The 2011 version had 43,936 total views at 8:26 AM on Feb 14, 2018.
Tuesday, February 13, 2018
MUSIC (Kenya): Stella Mwangi's Awesome Rap, "Shut It Down"
Stella Mwangi's Shut It Down is an awesome piece of music video. It is arguably one of her best songs ever, if not one of Africa's best even now in early 2018. And yet, despite its artistic merits (which border on the truly iconic), its place in the evolution of African pop music in this decade, remains largely obscure. This is despite the fact that #TheYamboSelection ranked it fourth among Africa's Top 25 Pop Songs of 2012, and second among East Africa's Top 10 Happiest Songs in 2012.
A number of factors explain the song's stellar quality, overall:
1. Top notch video directing and production.
1. Top notch video directing and production.
2. Stella's star-quality as rapper and dancer in her own song.
3. The song's beat, and all that surround energy.
4. The optical and artistic aspects of the 'set', and location.
Click to watch the video
Click to watch the video
Monday, February 12, 2018
East Africa's Top 40 Happiest Songs of The Year, 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 entire 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
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 (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
This is the fourth annual edition of #TheYamboSelection, presenting the full list of Africa's Top 40 Happiest Songs of 2017. The same criteria are used this year (January to December 2017) as were used last year to select and rank, out of the songs released or published during the year, those that project and/or elicit the highest quotient of happiness in the listener/audience.
With all the talent that keeps popping up all across Africa, it has been no less daunting a task this year to put together this list. Having more to pick from does not necessarily mean a greater leeway in doing so, one finds, as there's even more, regrettably, to let go that should be in. But all lists of quality do have a 'genetic' limit of sorts, one hazards to add, in the sense of how long, how elongated, they can possibly be -- and still remain optimal and (common)sensible. So, as we look ahead, one senses that this list is fast approaching a certain limit one cannot breach.
As before, the focus in this series of lists is the song, not the singer, with the added requirement that only songs in video form qualify. In addition, the song must broadly fit the standard definition of popular (or pop) music; that is, music in any of these distinct genres, or any combination of them: Hip Hop, RnB, rap, reggae or rock. We are not dealing here with gospel, classical or traditional music; although borderline cases or creative partial 'fusions' with them will always be considered.
With all the talent that keeps popping up all across Africa, it has been no less daunting a task this year to put together this list. Having more to pick from does not necessarily mean a greater leeway in doing so, one finds, as there's even more, regrettably, to let go that should be in. But all lists of quality do have a 'genetic' limit of sorts, one hazards to add, in the sense of how long, how elongated, they can possibly be -- and still remain optimal and (common)sensible. So, as we look ahead, one senses that this list is fast approaching a certain limit one cannot breach.
As before, the focus in this series of lists is the song, not the singer, with the added requirement that only songs in video form qualify. In addition, the song must broadly fit the standard definition of popular (or pop) music; that is, music in any of these distinct genres, or any combination of them: Hip Hop, RnB, rap, reggae or rock. We are not dealing here with gospel, classical or traditional music; although borderline cases or creative partial 'fusions' with them will always be considered.
HERE, THEN, THE LISTING AND RANKING OF EAST AFRICA's TOP 40 HAPPIEST SONGS OF 2017 ~ #YaSE
Winning Team is a cheerful song for all victorious teams, in all fields of human endeavor, All true victories are, in all climes, joyful occasions. They can soar to rarefied READ MORE
39. Run Ting by King Kaka ft. Fena Gitu (2017):Run Tin has a superb opening tune, for some 30 seconds or so. This yields to King Kaka's distinctive rap 'affair', and fine reggae vibes from Fena Gitu. But poor lighting mars the video.
38. Kidege by Bandanah ft. Spizzo x Naiboi (2017):
Kidege (= Little Bird) starts with some 20 seconds lost to an unnecessary radio-call. Bandanah, "cool as a cucumber", rescues it all with his uniquely modulated voice. READ MORE
37. Lover by Victoria Kimani ft. Phyno (2017):
Victoria Kimani's Lover is a (day)dream of love rendered in fine singing and dancing and all sorts of dress 'rehearsal', all in a set that glitters and shimmers end-to-end. READ MORE
36. 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 READ MORE
35. Face to Face by Charly na Nina (2017):
A rousing tune invites all to this jam session filled with pleasant sounds and "brave" visuals. Amber Lulu is fully engaged in this beat filled act. It ends too soon, alas, at 2:44 minutes.
33. Ya Nini by Alicios and Khaligaph Jones (2017):
Ya Nini, sung in both Swahili and Lingala as well as some English, is a fusion of rap (infused with Sheng) and a rousing version of Lingala Pop. It is a sort of Eastlands READ MORE
32. Dede by Mimi Mars (2017):
A relaxed and confident Mimi sings an adorable song here, about all those hard-to-express love feelings that felt Love easily engenders. It has a lovely tone, too, which READ MORE
31. Unanimaliza by Ray C (2017):
Ray C's early 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 men.
30. John Rambo by Sheebah (2017):
John Rambo is Sheebah's latest personification of her love-idea. He's a good excuse for fine and suggestive moves and postures, as well as lovey lyrics. And she's of course READ MORE
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 READ MORE
27. 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
26. Everything by Uncle Austin ft. Meddy (2017):
Everything about Everything is upbeat and very engaging. Just the kind of tune-filled stuff the seasoned hopper looks out for. All that fine dancing spreads profuse cheer. Blast of a thing!
25. Weekend by Sheebah ft. Runtown (2017):
Weekend -- Wikendi, if you like -- as sung by Sheebah and Runtown, is a superb collaboration between two musical pillars in Uganda and Nigeria. The video invokes READ MORE
Hata Sielewi ( = I don't really understand what you're saying) portrays the difficulties experienced when attempting to express love sentiments across language bar READ MORE
23.
Yegwe Munange (= It's you, Babe) is more than the usual music video offering. It has a distinctive visual-arts orientation, as if the product of a self-respecting School of READ MORE
22. Attention by Vivian ft. Redsan (2017):
Attention is a cheerful song by two Kenyan artistes. It fuses two genres -- Genge (Vivian) and Reggae (Redsan). It is energetic and fun -- with cheerful voices and engaging dance-hall tunes.
21. Give it to Me by Lulu Diva (2017):
Lulu Diva's puff-puffing, equatorial train-ride is as a fine an excuse as you can get for another kind of journey she's prepared just for you (guys): a seductive and READ MORE
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 READ MORE
19. 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 READ MORE
18. Tukiggale by Eddy Yawe ft. Carol Nantongo (2017):
Tukiggale (= "Let's [get] close") is a song full of cheer, and such an enjoyable 'moment'. Every second of it is a thrill, and every thrill cascades. It shares out ample servings of READ MORE
17. Umeniwahi by Kristoff (Mluhya wa Busia) (2017):
Umeniwahi (= you got me), is a tuneful song depicting a youthful pair in a great holiday mood. The sands we see are surely not in Kisumu or Busia 'city', but no matter. Kristoff is a "trupillar" of Kenya's pop scene. Expect more from him.
16. Down by Quick Rocka 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 a READ MORE
15. Mfata by Charly na Nina (2017):
In Mfata, the Charly na (= and) Nina duo from Rwanda sings a very cheerful and quick-paced song in perfect harmony of voice, and dances in wonderful synchronicity 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 READ MORE
13. Throne by Navio ft. King Kaka (2017):
Shot mostly before a live audience, Throne is all energy and gusto. An awesome tune streams all through the song. And a superb beat knocks out everyone. The stage is READ MORE
12. 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 READ MORE
11. 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 READ MORE
10. Wembe by Otile Brown ft. Timmy Tdat (2017):
Wembe (= razor), the video, is a montage of playfulness and suggestive images that belie an accomplished 'stage' performance by Kenyan artistes only recently READ MORE
9. Fresh (Remix) by Fid Q ft. Diamond Platnumz x Rayvanny (2017):
A strummed guitar sets off this creatively imagined video. It keeps everyone hooked throughout this jamming affair by three of Tanzania's leading Bongo-Musikers. They'd READ MORE
8. Babiee by Avril ft. A Pass
Babiee showcases the fine talents of two classy artistes from East Africa -- she from Kenya and he from Uganda. They deliver the lyrics... and the totality of this READ MORE
7. 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 READ MORE
6. 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 READ MORE
5. Tonight The Band Beca x Petra (2017):
In Tonight, which gives us nearly 5 minutes of silky funk, the youthful and self-assured Kenyans, Band Beca, sing like seasoned artistes, with seductive pauses and READ MORE
4. 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 READ MORE
3. 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 READ MORE
2. 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 READ MORE
1. 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 READ MORE
[Note: Lists for earlier years appear at the bottom of this page]
Click on a Song's title to watch the video:
Click on a Song's title to watch the video:
Winning Team is a cheerful song for all victorious teams, in all fields of human endeavor, All true victories are, in all climes, joyful occasions. They can soar to rarefied READ MORE
39. Run Ting by King Kaka ft. Fena Gitu (2017):Run Tin has a superb opening tune, for some 30 seconds or so. This yields to King Kaka's distinctive rap 'affair', and fine reggae vibes from Fena Gitu. But poor lighting mars the video.
38. Kidege by Bandanah ft. Spizzo x Naiboi (2017):
Kidege (= Little Bird) starts with some 20 seconds lost to an unnecessary radio-call. Bandanah, "cool as a cucumber", rescues it all with his uniquely modulated voice. READ MORE
37. Lover by Victoria Kimani ft. Phyno (2017):
Victoria Kimani's Lover is a (day)dream of love rendered in fine singing and dancing and all sorts of dress 'rehearsal', all in a set that glitters and shimmers end-to-end. READ MORE
36. 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 READ MORE
35. Face to Face by Charly na Nina (2017):
Fine tunes accompany this Charly na Nina song. A cheerful beat and the call to hot-blooded guys, "Be my guy", will be too inviting for certain types already enticed with subtle melody.
34. Only You by Amber Lulu (2018):
34. Only You by Amber Lulu (2018):
A rousing tune invites all to this jam session filled with pleasant sounds and "brave" visuals. Amber Lulu is fully engaged in this beat filled act. It ends too soon, alas, at 2:44 minutes.
33. Ya Nini by Alicios and Khaligaph Jones (2017):
Ya Nini, sung in both Swahili and Lingala as well as some English, is a fusion of rap (infused with Sheng) and a rousing version of Lingala Pop. It is a sort of Eastlands READ MORE
32. Dede by Mimi Mars (2017):
A relaxed and confident Mimi sings an adorable song here, about all those hard-to-express love feelings that felt Love easily engenders. It has a lovely tone, too, which READ MORE
31. Unanimaliza by Ray C (2017):
Ray C's early 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 men.
30. John Rambo by Sheebah (2017):
John Rambo is Sheebah's latest personification of her love-idea. He's a good excuse for fine and suggestive moves and postures, as well as lovey lyrics. And she's of course READ MORE
28. 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 READ MORE
27. 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
26. Everything by Uncle Austin ft. Meddy (2017):
Everything about Everything is upbeat and very engaging. Just the kind of tune-filled stuff the seasoned hopper looks out for. All that fine dancing spreads profuse cheer. Blast of a thing!
25. Weekend by Sheebah ft. Runtown (2017):
Weekend -- Wikendi, if you like -- as sung by Sheebah and Runtown, is a superb collaboration between two musical pillars in Uganda and Nigeria. The video invokes READ MORE
24. 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 bar READ MORE
Yegwe Munange by Serena Bata (2017):
Yegwe Munange (= It's you, Babe) is more than the usual music video offering. It has a distinctive visual-arts orientation, as if the product of a self-respecting School of READ MORE
22. Attention by Vivian ft. Redsan (2017):
Attention is a cheerful song by two Kenyan artistes. It fuses two genres -- Genge (Vivian) and Reggae (Redsan). It is energetic and fun -- with cheerful voices and engaging dance-hall tunes.
21. Give it to Me by Lulu Diva (2017):
Lulu Diva's puff-puffing, equatorial train-ride is as a fine an excuse as you can get for another kind of journey she's prepared just for you (guys): a seductive and READ MORE
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 READ MORE
19. Kirisense by Khaligraph Jones ft. Bruce Melodie (2017):
18. Tukiggale by Eddy Yawe ft. Carol Nantongo (2017):
Tukiggale (= "Let's [get] close") is a song full of cheer, and such an enjoyable 'moment'. Every second of it is a thrill, and every thrill cascades. It shares out ample servings of READ MORE
17. Umeniwahi by Kristoff (Mluhya wa Busia) (2017):
Umeniwahi (= you got me), is a tuneful song depicting a youthful pair in a great holiday mood. The sands we see are surely not in Kisumu or Busia 'city', but no matter. Kristoff is a "trupillar" of Kenya's pop scene. Expect more from him.
16. Down by Quick Rocka 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 a READ MORE
15. Mfata by Charly na Nina (2017):
In Mfata, the Charly na (= and) Nina duo from Rwanda sings a very cheerful and quick-paced song in perfect harmony of voice, and dances in wonderful synchronicity 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 READ MORE
13. Throne by Navio ft. King Kaka (2017):
Shot mostly before a live audience, Throne is all energy and gusto. An awesome tune streams all through the song. And a superb beat knocks out everyone. The stage is READ MORE
12. 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 READ MORE
11. 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 READ MORE
10. Wembe by Otile Brown ft. Timmy Tdat (2017):
Wembe (= razor), the video, is a montage of playfulness and suggestive images that belie an accomplished 'stage' performance by Kenyan artistes only recently READ MORE
9. Fresh (Remix) by Fid Q ft. Diamond Platnumz x Rayvanny (2017):
A strummed guitar sets off this creatively imagined video. It keeps everyone hooked throughout this jamming affair by three of Tanzania's leading Bongo-Musikers. They'd READ MORE
8. Babiee by Avril ft. A Pass
Babiee showcases the fine talents of two classy artistes from East Africa -- she from Kenya and he from Uganda. They deliver the lyrics... and the totality of this READ MORE
7. 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 READ MORE
6. 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 READ MORE
5. Tonight The Band Beca x Petra (2017):
In Tonight, which gives us nearly 5 minutes of silky funk, the youthful and self-assured Kenyans, Band Beca, sing like seasoned artistes, with seductive pauses and READ MORE
4. 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 READ MORE
3. 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 READ MORE
2. 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 READ MORE
1. 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 READ MORE
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Links To Relevant Lists From Previous Years:
1. Africa's 40 Happiest Songs of The Year, 2016
Links To Relevant Lists From Previous Years:
1. Africa's 40 Happiest Songs of The Year, 2016
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