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Joefes recently delivered a cultural manifesto with his expansive double-disc project, The Art of Gengetone. Available now across all major streaming platforms, this 22-track opus serves as a comprehensive celebration of the Gengetone sound and the Nairobi ghetto lifestyle it represents—detailing everything from financial struggle and raw ambition to hedonistic partying and raw human relationships. The album is strategically divided into two disks, each containing 11 songs. Though Disc Two features a higher density of collaborations, both sections work in tandem to showcase Joefes’ lyrical prowess and his ability to blend gritty storytelling with infectious rhythms. The project begins with “Million Dollar Ndoto,” an inspirational intro where Joefes outlines his plans to secure a million dollars and dream without limits. The track grounds the album in a narrative of aspiration, reminding listeners of his journey and his certainty of future success. This motivational start is quickly juxtaposed with “Kuona Dust” (ft. Clamer), a satirical rap track about the financial struggles men face. Kuona Dust (seeing dust) is a sarcastic nod to the belief that struggle is an inherent part of manhood. The core Gengetone themes emerge with “Tools,” a rap song where Joefes uses the term “tools” to describe his significant other and other things deemed heavy or worthwhile. Track four, “Mali Safi” (ft. Nairobi), features the two rappers celebrating things that are Mali Safi (good quality or fine), turning everyday praise into a rap anthem. Produced by Vic West, “Kienyeji” is a critical look at backward or naive actions, where Joefes uses the term Kienyeji (someone from the village with a backward mentality) to critique certain behaviors within the urban setting. The financial pressures continue with “Za Lunch” (ft. Kabansora), a relatable track about partners demanding money for lunch despite the men’s current lack of funds. The celebratory mood breaks through on “Fyam” (produced by DJ Moon), where Joefes sings about feeling good and fine. This leads perfectly into “Gideon Boots” (ft. Fathermoh & Teslah, produced by Vic West), an upbeat anthem about showing out, dressing nicely, and the reckless abandon of the party life. Disc One closes with the narrative-driven “Gondi,” where Joefes sings about realizing he met a deceptive, attractive thief. The final track, “Dunda” (ft. Unspoken Salaton & Steph Kapela), is a pure dance track that playfully commands everyone to dance, regardless of body shape. Disc Two maintains the raw energy while embracing more diverse collaborations. “Kataa” (ft. Moti the NRG & Fidel Rayd) is a witty rap track about people refusing to stop having fun—refusing to go home or stop drinking—championing ‘good-bad’ decisions. This is followed by the cautionary “Chorea Madawa Interlude” (ft. Wamagui), a brief engagement asking listeners to quit drugs. The party life continues with “Mchele” (ft. Exray & Fathermoh), a darkly humorous track where the guys rap about running out of money for alcohol and jokingly advising a friend to drug (mchele) them so they can pass out. The album pays homage to the craft on “Kitchen Cook” (ft. Mad Gaza, Unspoken Salaton & Exray Taniua), where the crew raps about “cooking” or making hit songs. “Pengka Wanairo” (ft. Kushman & Iphoolish) is a high-energy ode to Nairobi women, praising their fashion, confidence, tattoos, and overall appeal, asserting that there is no better woman (peng ka wanairo). The project ends with the infectious “Aki Ya Nani,” an Amapiano-influenced, sarcastic dance outro. Joefes playfully calls out friends to join the rave, some to stay away due to cash issues, and confirms that if they run short, he can always call for help. The Art of Gengetone is an essential body of work that validates Gengetone’s place in East African music history, proving it is the culture that constantly reinvents itself. https://blackmarket.lnk.to/theartofge…

Rap artist Rap Kabaka delivers a compelling dose of motivation with the release of the new performance video for his inspirational track, “Rise Up,” featuring the exceptional vocal talent of Shourtie Official. The visual is a powerful companion to the song, now available on YouTube. “Rise Up” is an inspirational song that focuses on resilience and the constant drive for success. Rap Kabaka uses his lyrical skill to encourage listeners to overcome adversity and stay focused on their goals. The presence of Shourtie Official provides a captivating, melodic hook that adds emotional depth and broad appeal to the track’s message of perseverance. The decision to release a performance video emphasizes the authenticity and raw energy of the song. Unlike a heavily stylized music video, this visual presentation focuses on the artists’ passionate delivery, allowing the powerful, uplifting message to connect directly with the audience. This visual is mandatory viewing for anyone needing a burst of motivation and a reminder that failure is never an option. Watch the official performance video for “Rise Up” here: https://youtu.be/ZmO3_MMCSgc

The music scene just received an injection of raw, unfiltered creativity with the release of “Topic,” the brand new single from Gengetone powerhouse Fathermoh. This strategic collaboration brings together a formidable lineup, featuring the sharp lyrical skills of Swat Matire, Harry Craze, and Iphoolish. The audio is available immediately across all digital streaming platforms and YouTube. “Topic” is conceptually brilliant, built on the premise that the music itself is so compelling, it transcends the need for a singular subject. The guys humorously address this directly within the lyrics, asserting that because the tune is so infectious, they have the artistic freedom to “put in any verse.” This self-aware approach leads to a playful, fast-paced exchange of rhymes and witty punchlines. The track is an undeniable Gengetone banger, characterized by heavy bass, a relentless beat, and rapid-fire flows from all four artists. It showcases the spontaneous, energetic spirit of the genre. “Topic” is a masterclass in collaboration, proving that sometimes, having no set subject is the best formula for creating a certified hit. https://youtu.be/FXEkv0jUnu0?si=eemk2yuA7X6zPweW

Weezy Lannez has mastered the art of romantic persuasion with his latest single, “Pikini,” now available on all digital streaming platforms. This track stands out as a luxurious slow dance music anthem, weaving smooth melodies around a direct, sensual narrative. “Pikini” serves as a romantic call-out to his muse, the titular “Pikini,” acknowledging her love for nice things and a flashy lifestyle. Instead of criticizing, Weezy Lannez celebrates her allure, making it clear that despite (or because of) her high standards, he wants her unequivocally. The lyrics subtly but sensually touch upon a profound sexual encounter he has shared with Pikini, adding an authentic layer of intimacy and passion to the song. “Pikini” is a polished, seductive record perfect for intimate settings, showcasing Weezy Lannez’s ability to deliver emotional depth within a sophisticated beat. https://youtu.be/QtEnlChpPVc?si=COmC3MGRSTl6c4UQ

Following the success of his recent EP, Almost, artist Josephyl waste no time in delivering a potent new single: the romantic rap fusion, “Dogi.” This track is a stellar collaboration, featuring vocal powerhouse Teslah and the lyrical prowess of Unspoken Salaton. The audio is officially out now on all digital streaming platforms. “Dogi” masterfully blends two distinct styles. Josephyl and Unspoken Salaton command the verses, engaging in simultaneous, energetic rap exchanges across the first and second verses, detailing the intimate and casual things people do when they hang out. Their lyrical synergy creates a compelling narrative around shared experiences and attraction. Bringing the melodic touch is Teslah, who shines on the catchy chorus, providing a sweet contrast to the rap verses. Listen closely to the production, and you might catch her subtle, beautiful harmonies lingering in the background, adding an extra layer of romance. “Dogi” is a powerful track that showcases the versatility of East African urban music. https://youtu.be/zlsBpt8RG8o?si=LIkIW0wYw1g5ImSI

Black Market Records is excited to announce the immediate release of the highly anticipated festive album, “The Way Home.” This compilation is a monumental achievement, serving as a vibrant, high-energy soundtrack for the entire holiday season and a testament to the label’s regional influence. “The Way Home” is far from traditional. It is a groundbreaking collaboration that strategically brings together a stellar line-up of both Kenyan and Ugandan artists from the BMR roster. This blend results in a unique sonic tapestry that mixes high-energy Afro-fusion, Bongo Flava, Gengetone, and urban rhythms, perfectly tailored for dancing and seasonal celebration. The album’s ethos is centered on the joy of homecoming and the communal spirit of the holidays. The scale of the project is impressive, boasting 14 tracks that run the gamut from celebratory jams to more reflective slow burners, ensuring there is a track for every holiday mood. The album is packed with star power, featuring contributions from key BMR heavyweights: 1. Christmas – Teslah 2. Dirty December – Shourtie & Slade 3. It’s A Holiday – Limbofest 4. Jingle Bell – Dynaso x Ibah 5. Holiday – Ivoltage & Yung Mase 6. Vacation – Slade Musix x Rap Kabaka 7. Walevi – B Classic 8. No Balance – Kwesi Mafia 9. Naza Na Conge – Suagga D 10. Weka Dance – Seta Bam Bam 11. Bonane – Kagame 12. Turn up – Exray 13. Kamynweso – Heavy Cane 14. Happy New Year – Fidel Rayd With this diverse and high-quality tracklist, “The Way Home” is strategically poised to be the definitive playlist for the entire festive season, stretching seamlessly from Christmas Day right through to the New Year’s celebrations. The album is OUT NOW and available for immediate streaming and download on all major digital streaming platforms. https://open.spotify.com/album/5EIVDxEeB9ONvMNgliM7ts?si=5-rDpcPWSGuxXyrIJ4sTSQ

Rapper Mtipa has delivered a focused and lyrically intricate track for the new season: the single “Avoidance.” Now available across all digital streaming platforms, this song, skillfully produced by Stranger, is a concise masterclass in self-discipline and poetic rhythm. “Avoidance” is a clear-cut mission statement. The song is entirely dedicated to identifying and articulating the things Mtipa wants to avoid in this life—be it negative influences, time-wasters, or pointless distractions. It’s an empowering track that explicitly advises fans to avoid things that don’t help them in life, setting a motivational tone for listeners striving for ambition and success. Mtipa showcases a seriously “lit” pen game, deftly playing with words and complex rhyme schemes throughout the verses. The rhythmic repetition elevates the track’s catchiness. The central, most infectious part of the song is the chorus, where Mtipa emphatically repeats the phrase “avoidance, avoid” to hammer home the necessity of clear boundaries. This simple, repetitive hook is guaranteed to stick with the listener. https://youtu.be/BeKgLCIuus4?si=3u4Ev_6ef43EvgJC

The solo spotlight shines brightly on Generraly, a core member of the dynamic group Waitaliano, as he drops his intense new single titled simply, “Diss.” This is a deliberate and aggressive offering, positioning Generraly as a formidable solo force within the rap landscape. The track is out now on all major digital streaming platforms. “Diss” leaves no room for ambiguity: it is a tough guy rap song designed to sound like a direct lyrical challenge to enemies and competitors. Generraly utilizes the classic Hip-Hop format to showcase raw skill, delivering sharp, focused bars that are both intimidating and musically compelling. The production behind “Diss” is equally commanding, resulting in a hardcore, unstoppable song built on heavy bass and punchy percussion. This sonic energy ensures the track provides an immediate physical reaction, compelling listeners to move their head up and down to the tune of the song. Generraly’s solo venture is a success, delivering an authentic piece of unapologetic, high-octane Hip-Hop that demands respect. https://youtu.be/zUcYMQsevQo?si=0_rlbHi9nFy0dy9w

Shourtie Official has proven her immense talent by dropping the official live performance video for his poignant track, “Impress You.” This video is a vital addition to the music landscape, allowing fans to connect with the raw emotion of the song which is from her “A love Story II.” The live rendition is now streaming on YouTube, delivering an intimate and powerful listening experience. “Impress You” is a masterclass in vocal control and emotive delivery. The live setting enhances the song’s vulnerability, showcasing Shourtie’s commitment to lyrical honesty. The visual execution of this live performance is intentionally minimalist, placing all emphasis on Shourtie’s passionate delivery. The video captures the raw energy and sincerity of the moment, creating an atmosphere that is both personal and intense. It’s a compelling choice that allows the complexity of the vocals and the emotional resonance of the lyrics to truly shine, making it feel less like a performance and more like a direct confession to the audience. This approach successfully elevates “Impress You” from just an audio track to an unforgettable showcase of artistry. Watch here: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LBWipF8mW2M

Music sensation, Teslah, has dropped the highly anticipated music video for her infectious dance jam, “Step On It,” featuring the powerful lyrical contributions of Unspoken Salaton and Mordecai Dex. Having already made a massive impact across digital streaming platforms, the song now receives a striking visual narrative that promises to dominate the airwaves and online charts. The music video is out now on YouTube, marking a significant milestone for the artists and the genre. The visual component for “Step On It” is a vibrant, fully-animated spectacle that sets a new bar for visual accompaniment in the Afropop mixed with Gengetone space. Eschewing traditional live action, the video performance artfully captures the high-octane energy and dance-floor readiness of the track. The dynamic visual style, coupled with the commanding digital presence of Teslah, Unspoken Salaton, and Mordecai Dex, creates an immersive viewing experience that is both creative and captivating. The song’s excellent animation choice is already gaining significant traction online and is sure to propel the video to rack up impressive viewing numbers on YouTube, cementing the song’s status as a major hit. This is an essential view for anyone tracking modern African music trends. Watch the official music video for “Step On It” here: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8MJbVSckE5E

The Christmas season is about to get a vibrant, East African soundtrack. Black Market Records is preparing to gift the continent the ultimate festive compilation: the upcoming album, “The Way Home.” Set to drop soon, this project is a groundbreaking collaboration, bringing together a stellar line-up of both Kenyan and Ugandan artists from the BMR roster. Far from traditional carols, “The Way Home” promises a unique blend of high-energy Afro-fusion, Bongo Flava, Gengetone, and urban rhythms, tailored for dancing and holiday celebrations. The sheer scale of the album is impressive, boasting 14 tracks that run the gamut from celebratory jams to reflective slow burners. The tracklist is packed with star power: 1. Christmas – Teslah 2. Dirty December – Shourtie & Slade 3. Its A Holiday – Limbofest 4. Jingle Bell – Dynaso x Ibah 5. Holiday – Ivoltage & Yung Mase 6. Vacation – Slade Musix x Rap Kabaka 7. Walevi – B Classic 8. No Balance – Kwesi Mafia 9. Naza Na Conge – Suagga D 10. Weka Dance – Seta Bam Bam 11. Bonane – Kagame 12. Turn up – Exray 13. Kamynweso – Heavy Cane 14. Happy New Year – Fidel Rayd This album is poised to be the definitive playlist for the entire festive season, stretching from Christmas Day right through to New Year’s. Stay tuned to BMR’s channels for the official release date and pre-save links—you won’t want to celebrate the holidays without this album!

The iconic group Sailors Gang (Sailors 254) announces their highly anticipated return to the scene with a brand new release scheduled for this coming Friday. This single carries immense weight and significance, marking the group’s first official song since their return to music and, notably, following the tragic passing of their beloved team member, Shalkido (may he rest in peace). While the song is not yet available on digital streaming platforms, the excitement is building rapidly. The group has strategically begun dropping teasers online, providing fans with a crucial sneak peek at the creation and the powerful themes encapsulated in the track. The return of Sailors 254 represents a new chapter for the pioneers of the Gengetone sound. A lot of energy is expected, and the industry eagerly awaits the unveiling of this deeply meaningful release. Stay locked into their official channels—you will not want to miss this monumental moment in their journey.