It’s New Music Friday, and this week’s release radar is stacked with exciting drops from Nigerian stars and African heavyweights. From Burna Boy’s genre-bending eighth studio album to Reekado Banks’ long-awaited comeback and Nasboi’s feel-good anthem, amongst other tracks.
Burna Boy – No Sign of Weakness
Africa’s genre-bending superstar Burna Boy leads the pack with his highly anticipated eighth studio album, No Sign of Weakness. Released today, July 11, 2025, the 16-track project is a fearless blend of Afrobeat, rock, country, and hip hop, showcasing his signature versatility.
Earlier songs like “Bundle by Bundle,” “Update,” “Sweet Love,” and “TaTaTa” featuring Travis Scott gave fans a taste of the album’s mix of sounds before it officially dropped on Friday. The album also includes big names like Mick Jagger on “Empty Chairs,” Shaboozey on “Change Your Mind,” and Stromae on “Pardon.”
From hard-hitting street tracks to smooth, emotional tunes, Burna Boy shows he’s not just a top African artist but a global star. Other tracks on the album include ‘No Panic’, ‘No Sign of Weakness’, ‘Buy You Life’, ‘Love’, ‘Come Gimme’, ‘Dem Dey’, ‘28 Grams,’ ‘Kabiyesi’, ‘Empty Chairs’, ‘Pardon’, and ‘Born Winner’.
From hard-hitting street tracks to smooth, emotional tunes, Burna Boy shows he’s not just a top African artist but a global star. In his album discography, he has albums like I Told Them (2023), Love, Damini in 2022, Twice as Tall in 2020, African Giant in 2019, Outside in 2018, amongst others.
Reekado Banks – The Game Needs You
Nine years since his last album, Reekado Banks returns with a statement: The Game Needs You. Dropped on July 7, this 15-track project is tight, refined, and rich with Afrobeat rhythms, smooth ballads, and crisp features.
The album marks a lyrical and sonic evolution, reaffirming why Reekado once earned the title of Nigeria’s Next Rated. With guest appearances from Phyno, Lil Kesh, Terry Apala, Skiibii, Winny, and Kashcoming, he proves he’s still got the magic. Singles like “Mukutu” and “Glamorous” (featuring Mayorkun) show his knack for hit-making chemistry.
Nasboi – Friday Night
Nasboi, the comedian-turned-singer, returns with another banger: Friday Night. Known for infectious hits like “Umbrella,” “Small Money,” and “Short Skirt (Fine Girls)”, Nasboi continues to impress with this dancefloor-ready anthem.
“Friday Night” brings high energy, catchy hooks, and a distinct Afrobeat-R&B blend that cements his rising status as an artist.
Joyner Lucas x Fireboy DML, J Balvin & DaBaby – Time Is Money
Dropped July 11, 2025, Time Is Money is a star-studded global track off Joyner Lucas’s upcoming album, ADHD 2. The single features Fireboy DML, J Balvin, and DaBaby, blending hip-hop, Afrobeats, and reggaeton into a high-energy anthem.
Joyner delivers sharp lyricism, Fireboy brings his signature Afro-pop melody, J Balvin adds Latin flair, and DaBaby grounds the track with gritty American rap. For Fireboy, it’s another big international collab, highlighting Afrobeats’ continued global rise.
Tyla – Is It
Grammy-winning South African sensation Tyla drops Is It, a summer-ready bop filled with breezy vocals and rhythmic chants. This marks her second solo release of the year, and it’s tailor-made for poolside playlists and sunset drives.
M.I Abaga – Mr Fantastic
After a hiatus, rap veteran M.I. Abaga returns with Mr Fantastic. Known for sharp lyricism and deep storytelling, M.I. proves he hasn’t lost a step. Fans of classic bars and rap, this one’s for you.
Berri-Tiga × Shoday – Mind
Berri-Tiga teams up with rising star Shoday for Mind, a vibey Afropop number that blends soulful melodies with modern rhythms. Their chemistry shines again after 2023’s “Azulbike.” Short, catchy, and packed with groove, it’s perfect for chilled-out summer weekends.
Korede Bello – Sugar
Smooth, sweet, and satisfyingly Afrobeat, Korede Bello delivers his first single of the year: Sugar. Following up the buzz from “Make Me,” Korede charms fans again with heartfelt lyrics and an irresistible groove.
This week’s New Music Friday proves the Afrobeats wave is not slowing down. With legends returning, new voices rising, and international collaborations blossoming, the sound of Africa continues to echo globally—and louder than ever.
