Best of the Month: January

January has been one hell of a month - it feels like we’ve experienced the whole 2020 in a span of 31 days. However, as always, music got us through. Here’s a look back at what called the editorial team’s attention in January:

Shishi

Fave Song - Marathon by Steph the Rapper

The song has an old school hip hop feel, the inspirational Nas type. I love that. It exemplifies "keep pushing". That's 2020 energy! 

Fave Video - Juiceman by Boutross, Jovie Jovv, Kay Green and Sho Madjozi

This is the Juiceman remix off Turn a Hobby to a Job EP Performed by Boutross , Jovie Jovv , Kay Green and South African BET Winner Sho Madjozi . " SHRAP NI INJILI ) Master Link to Itunes - https://untd.io/r/AWMiDVZDxKHQ Shot and Directed by Mike Lolly Beat Prod.

“It's fun, vibrant and for the culture. We also get to see a new side to Sho Madjozi “

Beverly

Fave Song & Video - Mare Mare by Matata

Follow matata on social media Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/matataofficial/ Facebook : https://www.facebook.com/matatanorge/ The song is performed by MATATA ( Marcus, Freddy, Richie,Festus and Ken) featuring Lamaz span K.O.B Directed by :David vu Instrumental: Niconine Mix and Mastering : mixedbychopz Recording Engineer : Haldor August Sørmoen Actress/ Dancer : Nancy blaze Set assistants : Collins Milanya & William Ongaki You can also watch DENGE music video from Matata https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2IKm1Vo6m5A The official YouTube channel for MATATA Subscribe for the latest music videos, Dance performances, and more.

I know the video and song were released in 2019 but hear me out. The single and its accompanying video are insanely, amazingly, out of this world good. Ok, I exaggerate but the visuals are extremely entertaining. Each cut is timed to the music and Matata and the rest of the music video crew seem like they are having the time of their life. If there’s one thing we should bring from 2019 into 2020, it would be this.

Monica

Fave Song - Try by Maũ

“I’ve had this song on repeat since it’s release. Without the typical drama that comes with break up songs, ‘Try’ perfectly and authentically tells the story of a failed relationship.”

Fave Project - Loops 1 by Nu Fvnk

“Fusing hip-hop, jazz, funk, R&B and electronic influences, Nu Fvnk delivered pure vibes with his Loops 1 EP. Despite being just 8 mintues long, you can tell that, its immediately evident that a lot thought and intention went into the creation and rollout of the project. ”

Michelle

Fave Song - Black Sheep by H_art The Band

SOMETIMES YOU LOVE SOMEONE SO MUCH, THAT YOU HAVE TO WATCH THEM LOVE ANOTHER - FRIENDZONE! #TeamH_artForever

“H_art The Band never skips a beat when it comes to portraying the vulnerabilities of romance – it is no less so with this song."

Fave Video - Baadae by Jadi

A Kaka Empire 2020 presentation The single from JADI, the new sensational Boy Band signed under Kaka Empire Management. Credits A KAKA EMPIRE PRESENTATION Management: Kaka Empire Record Label Producer: Ethan Muziki Additional Background Vocals : Dionne Moorby Executive Production House: Kaka Empire LTD Director: Trey Juelz Stylists: Faith Abuga Kaka Empire LTD.

“This song reminds me of the headiness of falling in love with someone new for the first time.”