Afrobeats Head

Author: Chioma Ugo Nwachukwu

  • Akili releases new single “Tortured Soul”

    Akili releases new single “Tortured Soul”

    New York-based Afro-R&B artist Akili has released the new single “Tortured Soul,” a track that explores passion, artistic expression and the tension between two different perspectives.

    The song began with lyrics written by Akili’s friend Z, who is from Tobago. Akili incorporated the lyrics into the broader narrative of his “Tobago Nights” project.

    “Tortured Soul” presents an internal dialogue between two people. One becomes increasingly absorbed in their art and the reality it creates, while the other attempts to bring them back to their shared reality. The song examines the question of which person is experiencing the deeper sense of isolation.

    Akili’s music combines Afrobeats and Soca influences with contemporary R&B songwriting. His work is also influenced by Caribbean music and artists including Olatunji and Fireboy DML.

    “Tortured Soul” is available on streaming platforms.

  • ADELEKE releases new EP “HE IS LEKE”

    ADELEKE releases new EP “HE IS LEKE”

    Nigerian Afrobeats artist, songwriter and DJ ADELEKE has released his five-track EP “HE IS LEKE.”

    Released on April 25, 2026, the project includes “Essence,” “Joro,” “Yankee,” “High Up” and “Soft Life.” The songs explore themes including self-belief, ambition, love, freedom and personal growth.

    ADELEKE began his career as a DJ in 2018 before expanding into digital content. In 2024, he gained attention on TikTok for his emoji-pronunciation videos, which combined music and visual content.

    The artist, who is signed to Mogul W.M Records, later left Ekiti State University to pursue music full-time. He described “HE IS LEKE” as a reflection of his past, present and future.

    The project is available on streaming platforms.

  • Andrew Garfield says Fela Kuti influenced his Spider-Man performance

    Andrew Garfield says Fela Kuti influenced his Spider-Man performance

    Andrew Garfield has revealed that Fela Kuti’s music influenced how he approached playing Peter Parker in “The Amazing Spider-Man.”

    Speaking on The Track Star Podcast in September 2026, Garfield said he began listening to Fela Kuti while working on the Spider-Man films. He explained that the Nigerian musician’s spirit, sound and rhythm helped him find something he wanted to bring to the character.

    Garfield has previously discussed using music and physical performers as references when developing his version of Spider-Man. In a 2012 interview with Reuters, he said he listened to “a lot of” Fela Kuti while preparing for the role, alongside studying athletes including Cristiano Ronaldo and Muhammad Ali for their physical confidence and agility.

    In the recent podcast episode, Fela Kuti’s “Water Get No Enemy” was also included in the playlist used while discussing Garfield’s musical influences.

  • Amanyea releases “La La Amapiano (Remix)”

    Amanyea releases “La La Amapiano (Remix)”

    Jamaican-born recording artist, dancer and choreographer Amanyea has released “La La Amapiano (Remix),” a track that draws from amapiano alongside elements of dancehall and pop.

    Amanyea’s work combines these genres with a style influenced by her background in dance and choreography.

    The song is available on streaming platforms.

  • Julian Faith releases new single “I Need Your Love”

    Julian Faith releases new single “I Need Your Love”

    Julian Faith has released the new single “I Need Your Love,” a rave and happy hardcore track running at 155 BPM.

    The song draws from 1990s rave music while using contemporary production. It also features a guest vocal performance that provides the track’s vocal element and emotional focus.

    The artwork features a photograph of a butterfly taken by Julian Faith in his parents’ garden during summer 2026.

    The song is available on streaming platforms.