Mankaprr Conteh and Andre Gee join host Brian Hiatt to discuss the best hip-hop, R&B, and Afropop of 2023. They delve into the evolution of hip-hop and showcase their favorite tracks. They discuss albums by Zaloopers, Hair, Mr. EZ, Adokunle Gold, and DeVito, highlighting their unique styles and influences. They also explore the challenges of balancing work and life responsibilities and introduce Dash Pass from DoorDash. They appreciate the unique qualities of different rap and R&B albums.
The podcast highlights lesser-known albums and songs in hip-hop, R&B, and Afropop from 2023.
Various artists blend different musical genres to create unique and energetic sounds.
Collaborations between artists from different African countries result in powerful anthems celebrating femininity and self-expression.
Renowned Nigerian artist Wizkid releases an EP showcasing his signature style and collaborations.
Mankaprr Conteh and Andre Gee discuss experimental albums, emotional releases, and genre-blending tracks from 2023.
Deep dives
Sabi Wu and Baby.com in 'Min Awe Wei'
Sabi Wu, a Kenyan rapper, collaborates with Baby.com on the song 'Min Awe Wei,' which combines elements of Nairobi hip-hop with Jersey, Philly, and Baltimore club rap. The track fuses rap, dance, and Afro-pop, resulting in a unique and energetic sound.
Tebs of the DJ's 'Kavalunko'
Tebs of the DJ, a Parisian producer, incorporates a traditional South African song into the AmaPiano genre with the song 'Kavalunko.' The track features mesmerizing drums, a choir-like chorus, and a fusion of AmaPiano elements with rock and R&B influences.
Find the Bag by NXS ft. Baby.com
Parisian producer NXS collaborates with rapper Baby.com on the song 'Find the Bag.' The track showcases a unique fusion of dreamy, spacey production with Memphis and Texas rap influences, creating a captivating and innovative musical experience.
Girl Next Door by Tyler ft. Ira Star
Tyler, a South African singer, joins forces with Nigerian artist Ira Star on the song 'Girl Next Door.' The track combines their distinct styles and delivers a Gen Z-infused, confident, and empowering anthem that celebrates femininity and self-expression.
Terminator by King Promise ft. Young John
Ghanaian singer King Promise collaborates with Nigerian producer Young John on the track 'Terminator.' This uplifting and inspirational song features bright and sunny production, capturing the festive spirit and becoming a hit throughout West Africa.
Wizkid's S2 EP
Renowned Nigerian artist Wizkid releases his EP titled S2. The project showcases Wizkid's signature cool and uplifting style, with lush instrumental production and collaborations featuring artists like Juan De Colle and Lettan.
Leon Thomas' 'Electric Dusk'
Leon Thomas, known for his acting and musical talent, presents 'Electric Dusk,' an album inspired by the atmosphere of an iconic movie theater in Los Angeles. The album encompasses a variety of styles, combining drama and music to create a cinematic and captivating experience.
Naomi Sharon's 'Obsidian'
Naomi Sharon's album 'Obsidian' showcases her mesmerizing vocals and sha-deh-inspired sound. The album modernizes the classic sha-deh style, giving it a fresh and unique twist, while maintaining the soulful and timeless vibe.
Andre's Picks for 2023 Hip-Hop: Zaloopers, Fat Boy Sharif, Mick Jenkins, Lil Papa, Rome Streetz, and Hair
Andre highlights Zaloopers' experimental album 'Microphone Fiend,' Fat Boy Sharif's surrealist approach in the album 'Half Man, Half Fam,' Mick Jenkins' introspective lyricism in 'The Circus,' Lil Papa's vulnerable and introspective album 'MIA,' Rome Streetz's dense lyricism in 'Noise Candy 5,' and Hair's genre-blending electronic sounds in 'Headspace.'
Manka Perkonte's Picks for 2023 Music: Mr. Eazy's 'Evil Genius,' Adokunle Gold's 'Tequila Ever After,' Davido's 'Timeless,' Jordyn Ward's 'Forward,' Sexy Red & Tocquisha's 'Daddy,' and more
Manka Perkonte highlights Mr. Eazy's instrumental and lush album 'Evil Genius,' Adokunle Gold's emotional and vulnerable 'Tequila Ever After,' Davido's celebratory 'Timeless,' Jordyn Ward's musical and interesting album 'Forward,' Sexy Red & Tocquisha's rap and voguing track 'Daddy,' and more.
We look back at some of the best hip-hop, R&B, and Afropop of 2023, with an emphasis on lesser-known albums and songs. Mankaprr Conteh and Andre Gee join host Brian Hiatt for the discussion.
