OUT TODAY: Hibachi & Image join forces to release their first EP single ‘Hurt Me’.

Visionary artist/producer HIBACHI is proud to announce the release of his debut EP single, ‘Hurt Me’, featuring the multifaceted American rapper and actor Image, recognized for his role in the popular Netflix series Sex Education. This collaboration marks a significant moment in the careers of both artists as they prepare to introduce a fresh sound to the international music scene.

Born and raised in Baltimore, US, Image discovered his passion for music at a young age while attending the Baltimore School for the Arts, the same school that Tupac once attended. In a city with a higher crime rate than a graduation rate, Image embodies Tupac’s proverbial “rose that grew from concrete” as he finds himself on the other side of the world, making music and captivating listeners with poetic lyrics.

Hibachi, originally from Germany and Congo, has been making waves in the UK music scene with his distinctive fusion of House, R&B, and Hip-Hop. By blending those elements, Hibachi has carved out a unique sonic identity that has caught the attention of industry giants like AWAL Core. The collaboration between these two London-based artists has culminated in the release of ‘HURT ME,’ a track that sets the stage for their upcoming EP, slated for release in January 2025. With ‘HURT ME,’ Hibachi and Image channel their experiences, inviting listeners to connect with their story and join them on their musical journey.

‘HURT ME’ is a masterful blend of sad but suave, playful yet salacious tones, delivering the emotional complexity of being the “side-piece” in a toxic romantic relationship. Image’s deep, resonant voice, reminiscent of Channel Tres, effortlessly rides the beat, delivering smooth, playful lyricism. Hibachi complements this with delicate vocals on the hook, crafting a memorable melody that adds a lighthearted flirtation to the otherwise serious subject matter.

Sonically, the track draws inspiration from a Kaytranada-esque R&B/House blend, enveloping listeners in an upbeat yet moody atmosphere. It’s a track that is as lyrically captivating as it is musically compelling, making it perfect for both club settings and laid-back listening.

Thematically, ‘HURT ME’ delves into the complexities of a relationship where one person seeks deeper intimacy while the other is content living their best life. The song poignantly captures the heartbreak that arises from unrequited love, all delivered in a poetic and emotionally resonant fashion.

‘HURT ME’ is out today (11th September) on various music platforms. Why not have a listen below…

Connect with Hibachi via:
IG: https://www.instagram.com/hibachibachi/

OUT TODAY: Jozem exposes the moody side to summer with his indie-R&B EP, Summerhaze

A sombre, bed of airy soundscapes introduces JOZEM‘s new EP, ‘Summerhaze’, through track, ‘Foolish Heart’, where the tranquility of Rwanda-born, Toronto-based artist’s vocals offer a place of escapism, introspection and even retrospection during a season that’s associated with having pure unadulterated fun.

Although the EP is described as a body of work that displays ‘a moody side of summer’, which peeks into Jozem’s many life experiences and those who are close to him, personally the five-track project could also be described as a transitional EP from Summer to Autumn – a season that prepare us for hibernation and a period of some serious self-discovery and perhaps reflecting on loss of friendships, relationships strains and heartache of losing a love interest, releasing all those pent up issues and coming out the other end renewed and healed. As these themes of self-discovery and introspection runs potent throughout the EP, ‘Summerhaze’ is also a gentle reminder of recognising the real cheerleaders in your life when times get a little rough.

The perfect example of this is through title track, ‘Summerhaze’, which reflects on an experience with one of Jozem’s close friends, who was going through a rough patch and, like most of us, that person would put on a brave face to mask the pain – even though Jozem could see right through the mask and feel his friend’s pain. He may have felt helpless at the time, but Jozem has learnt a valuable lesson from the experience that ring loud in the track – and that lesson is that it’s not a sign of weakness to reach out and confide in someone who you truly trust.

Soft layers of electronic soundscapes begins to make its presence known in ‘Test’ and ‘Waiting, Soft’ concluding the EP perfectly which, personally, radiates some sense of hope and optimism through the muddy maze, that’s unfortunately called life.

‘Summerhaze’ EP is now out today (29th August), via various music platforms. Why not enter into Jozem’s world below…

Must Listens: Summerhaze

Connect with Jozem via:
FB: https://www.facebook.com/followjozem
IG: https://www.instagram.com/jozem__/
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@jozem
Website:https://www.iamjozem.com/

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

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

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