Tag: London

OUT TODAY: Sonz of Thunder UK returns with track, ‘Money Talk’

For the last few years, Dancehall/Gospel duo SONZ OF THUNDER UK (SOTUK), consisting of brothers Shane and Dean Brown, have adopted the sweet rhythms of the Motherland (Afrobeats), which received a seal of approval from the likes of Capital Xtra, BBC1/1xtra and BBC London. Now the guys return to their Dancehall roots with brand new single, ‘Money Talk’, out 20th August now across various platforms.

Written by Shane and Dean Brown, ‘Money Talk’ sums up a well-known quote: The love of money is the root of all evil.With the glorification of money displayed in today’s world, where many are on a manic chase for the notes – without any consequences – SOTUK’s latest single is a reminder to not place so much faith in the very thing that causes break-ups and envy in relationships. Instead, ‘Money Talk’ encourages to place trust and faith in the Most High. 

Produced by Zabdiel Campbell, ‘Money Talk’ follows the re-release of their 2019 single, ‘Enjoy Life’, named Gospel Song of the Week by Soul Food Gospel Radio. The carefree riddim has also scooped the top spot on UGN Jamz’s Reggae Royalty Chart and AStepFWD UK Christian Chart in the reggae category.

Veterans in the UK gospel reggae scene, SOTUK has been spreading words of inspiration across the UK which earned them a steady following in the gospel and secular communities as well as receiving continuous support by the likes of Capital Xtra’s Ras Kwame, BBC London, Pulse88 Radio, The Beat 1036, Premiere Gospel plus many more. Recipients of TTMP Gospel Awards, SOTUK has been nominated for a Premiere Gospel Music Award. The brothers enjoy more good news; they were recently nominated for GX Awards for Best Reggae Act.

Blessed with performing on the same stages with some of reggae’s great acts such as Papa San, Luciano, Levi Roots and Christopher Martin, SOTUK has been working in Ghana with native producers, including Bizkitbeats and Kbeats, for tracks such as ‘Joy To The World’ and ‘Blessings Pon Blessings’, which possess an Afrobeat flow. Both tracks have demonstrated that the guys can take on many genres while maintaining their Reggae/Dancehall signature sound.

Stay tuned to SOTUK as they are currently working on new music, with fresh and exciting sounds for 2024…Until then, check out their latest single, ‘Money Talk’, out now across all good music platforms.

Connect with Sonz Of Thunder UK via:
FB: https://www.facebook.com/sonzofthunderukmusic
X: https://x.com/UkSonz
IG: https://www.instagram.com/sonzofthunderukmusic/
TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@sonzofthunderukmusic

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OUT TODAY: Dr Adaku gets in touch with her roots in single, ‘Egwu Ukwu (Waist Dance)’ ft. Nigerian legend Flavour

Rising British-Nigerian Afro-fusion singer DR ADAKU has teamed up with countryman and ‘African Royalty’, Flavour (N’abania), for her new single, ‘Egwu Ukwu (Waist Dance).’ The infectious track is a testament to the joy and beauty of the diaspora connecting with and celebrating their roots.

‘Egwu Ukwu (Waist Dance)’ is three minutes of heritage, pride and universal elation – with captivating rhythms sounding throughout. The multifaceted PhD holder and artist, Dr Adaku, is of Igbo-Nigerian descent, as is Flavour. As they glide between English and their native Igbo language, the song is layered with energetic verses and warming harmonies, with cheerful melodies that translate effortlessly to all ears.

Raised in London, Dr Adaku continues to develop her career intentionally experimenting a range of African genres, from her Afrobeats and R&B-infused debut song ‘Jisike’ (2020), to her Amapiano-inspired latest track ‘No Evidence’ (2024). Now, she teams up with Igbo-Nigerian legend Flavour, widely known for decades worth of hits, including ‘Nwa Baby’ (2005), ‘Oyi’ (2012), ‘Game Changer (Dike)’ (2023), and ‘Big Baller’ (2023).

The ‘Egwu Ukwu’ is a traditional dance of the Igbo people, native to southeastern Nigeria, known for elaborate footwork and energetic movements. Performed during celebrations, it exemplifies the cultural heritage and communal spirit of the Igbo people, with dancers moving to the rhythm of traditional music and drumming. The track allows listeners to visualise such festivities, while it symbolises maintaining a close connection to one’s heritage. The sentiment is not limited to just to Nigerians, but to all diaspora children that may struggle with identity nuances and challenges that come with being of dual nationality.

Later this summer, Dr Adaku will be an opening act during Flavour’s concert at the OVO Arena Wembley on August 25. Flavour has toured and performed worldwide, with Dr Adaku set to build on her attention-grabbing performances at Koko Camden and Albert Hall in Manchester, as well as renowned Nigerian venue Eko Hotels & Suite.

Commenting on the new single, Dr Adaku said: “Growing up, my culture has always been important to me, thanks to my parents who surrounded me with the rich traditions of our heritage. ‘Let’s Dance’ is all about prioritising good vibes and celebrating wins in all shapes and sizes. After working with Flavour to write the track and, thanks to Selebobo’s wonderful production, I’m hopeful this song will be a summer anthem – perfect for everyone to get outside and dance! I can’t wait to perform it live at Flavour’s show at the OVO Arena Wembley in August and share such a beautiful piece of our culture with everyone.”

Listen to ‘Egwu Ukwu (Waist Dance)’ below…

Connect with Dr Adaku via:
IG: https://www.instagram.com/dradaku/?hl=en
TikTok: https://x.com/dradaku
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCt7yJ0sKYaw1i-a0hcgPoaw

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OUT TODAY: Ilselena Takes Us on a Summer Escape with New Single ‘Bring Peace (Fly Away)’

London-based RnB / Pop artist ILSELENA impressed fans once again with her latest single, ‘Bring Peace (Fly Away).’ The Denmark-born, British-American singer—with vocals often compared to and inspired by the likes of Cleo Sol, ELIZA, and D’Angelo—dropped a summer-perfect treat for her listeners.

Ilselena’s ‘Bring Peace (Fly Away)’ is an effervescent display of positivity. The singer penned the track during a getaway to the countryside, taking a break from the ‘hustle and bustle’ of city life. Through further appreciating and connecting with nature, the 22-year-old singer-songwriter translates this sentiment through her new single, encouraging listeners to take a blissful break from reality and embrace the warmth and joy of summer.

Ilselena has continued to team up with her brother and producer, Youngr. The writing and production mesh wonderfully throughout the song, with liberating lyrics that flow seamlessly over the instrumental. The rhythm exudes tranquillity, akin to the feeling relaxing on the beach, yet with a cheerful and subtle groove that sparks an itch to get up and dance as the sun sets.

Ilselena’s artistry continues to grow from strength to strength, following her debut EP ‘if this is the future,’ released in 2022, as well as previous release ‘ready to please’ in November 2023.

Commenting on the new single, Ilselena said: “This song means so much to me. Life can be incredibly busy and stressful for all of us, so I wanted to create something that helps people break away from that pressure this summer and get outside and enjoy themselves! I want listeners to feel relaxed and get a sense of joy, especially when the chorus hits. Working on this song was such a fulfilling experience, and I hope people enjoy it as much as I did making it. Also, I have a very exciting project in the works that I can’t wait to share with everyone when the time is right.”

Ilselena’s ascent has caught the attention of leading industry tastemakers and publications including EarMilk, The Face and Hunger Magazine. Her consistent growth has landed her a monthly residency at iconic hotel and member’s club The Ned, as well as an upcoming show in late July in collaboration with Global:Soul x Cross the Tracks at The Hackney Social.

‘Bring Peace (Fly Away)’ is out today (9th August) across various music platforms. Have a listen below…

Connect with Ilselena via:
IG: https://www.instagram.com/ilselena/
TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@ilselena?lang=en

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Arliston’s new single, ‘Vertical’ mountaineers through melancholy

ARLISTON‘s latest offering ‘Vertical’ is a brooding, introspective journey that delves deep into the heart of existential dread. The duo’s signature blend of intimate vocals and expansive soundscapes is in full force here, creating a sonic atmosphere that’s both suffocating and cathartic.

Opening with a delicate piano melody and Jack Ratcliffe’s soulful baritone, the track gradually builds to a crescendo of emotional intensity. It’s a familiar Arliston territory, but ‘Vertical’ feels like a particularly raw and vulnerable exploration of the band’s signature melancholia. The lyrics, both poignant and relatable, capture the paralyzing feeling of being overwhelmed by life’s challenges.

Musically, the track is a masterclass in dynamics. The tension between quiet introspection and soaring choruses is expertly handled, creating a sense of emotional catharsis. The addition of Sam Catchpole’s driving drums and Brett Shaw’s percussive flourishes adds a layer of complexity to the arrangement, without ever overshadowing the song’s core emotional impact.

While Arliston’s influences are clear – The National, Bon Iver, and Damien Rice cast long shadows over their sound – the duo have managed to carve out their own distinctive niche. ‘Vertical’ is a testament to their talent for crafting songs that resonate deeply with listeners, offering a much-needed soundtrack to those moments of doubt and despair.

Whether you’re a longtime fan or new to Arliston, ‘Vertical’ is a must-listen. It’s a song that lingers in the mind long after the final notes fade, leaving you with a sense of both melancholy and hope.

‘Vertical’ was released last Friday (26th July) via various music platforms. Why not have a listen below…

Follow Arliston via:
FB: https://www.facebook.com/officialarliston
IG: https://www.instagram.com/arliston/
X: https://x.com/arlistonband

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OUT TODAY: Benny Bizzie is ‘Not Sorry’ for falling in Love in New Single

Singer, songwriter and producer BENNY BIZZIE brings on those hazy summer days in single, ‘Not Sorry’, with hypnotic synths, mesmerising guitar licks, and memorable hooks, topped off by the warmth of the North London-born R&B crooner’s soulful falsetto. ‘Not Sorry’ is hitting all streaming platforms on 1st  August.

With a soft bass line, inspired by UK garage classics, such as Shanks & Bigfoot’s hit, ‘Sweet Like Chocolate’ and Sweet Female Attitude’s  ‘Flowers’, ‘Not Sorry’ should have been a Valentine’s track as it is all about giving out love excessively, without any consequences. Bizzie sings: ‘If loving you is a crime, then I’m guilty for my crimes charge me so I can do the time, If I say I’m sorry, that’s a lie’

‘Not Sorry’ follows Benny Bizzie’s first single of 2024, ‘Dejavu’, which pays homage and love for families and children in Gaza affected by current conflicts. Bizzie calls on his younger self, as a rap/grime artist, to deliver gritty rap lyrics packed with emotion while keeping it warm with soulful R&B melodies. 

Benny also makes zero apologies for the love he is pouring out to his ever-expanding fan base as he plans to unleash a string of releases throughout 2024, which includes his upcoming album, ‘Project Human’.

Growing up in the estates of Tottenham, in north London, Benny wanted to find his place in society, where he can be his true self. He found solace in music, which led to his journey as a grime/rap artist, often swapping and dropping verses with childhood friends. His childhood friends would later become firm figures in UK’s grime scene which includes  Ghetts, BoyBetterknow and Ruff Sqwad.

In his adult years, Benny transitioned into R&B artist, perfecting spine-tingling falsetto over the years, often touching on current topics that are close to his heart (as featured in single ‘DejaVu’), self-development/self-discovery – and, of course, love in all forms. To date, Benny has generated over 650,000 views on YouTube and over 250K streams on Spotify alone and has generated firm support from the likes of BBC1xtra and BBC London.

Bizzie continues building momentum with cross-platform visibility through recent appearance in National Lottery advert and various podcast appearances. His collaborative single with Audio Attack, ‘Crazy For Your Love‘, was featured on Australia’s TV hit shows, Home and Away and Bachelors.

Forming part of his upcoming album, ‘Project Human’, ‘Not Sorry’ is available from 1st August on various music platforms.

Connect with Benny Bizzie via:
FB: https://www.facebook.com/BENNYBIZZIE/
X: https://x.com/BennyBizzie
IG: https://www.instagram.com/bennybizzie/
TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@bennybizzie

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