CANEX Creations Incorporated, an initiative powered by Afrexim Bank’s Creative Africa Nexus (CANEX) programme is thrilled to announce the release of the highly anticipated EP, ONE DRUM – a collaborative masterpiece that bridges cultures and genres, while celebrating the rich musical heritage of Africa and its diaspora.
This unique project brings together an extraordinary lineup of artists from across the African diaspora, the Caribbean, Brazil, the USA and also Europe.
ONE DRUM is a celebration of the cultural ties that unite Africa and its diaspora, forged through the shared history of the Trans-Atlantic Slave Trade.
This EP also highlights the enduring rhythms and musical traditions that have been carried across continents, from the magical drums of Brazil to the reggae and soul of the Caribbean and the global beats of Afrobeats and Amapiano.
The EP delves into themes of cultural pride, resilience, and the beauty of collaboration. It not only showcases musical talent but also celebrates the power of cultural exchange, creating a universal language that connects us all.
The EP features an impressive array of talent, including:
- DJ Oskido (South Africa): Music pioneer and co-founder of Kalawa Jazmee Records.
- The Scorpion Kings (South Africa): Amapiano giants DJ Maphorisa and Kabza De Small, known for their innovative contributions to the genre.
- Olodum (Brazil): Renowned for their iconic Yoruba drumming and collaborations with legends like Michael Jackson and Paul Simon.
- Commissioner Gordon Williams (USA): Executive producer known for his work with Lauryn Hill, Amy Winehouse, and Carlos Santana.
- Flavour (Nigeria): Celebrated Afrobeat artist known for his powerful lyrics and dynamic performances.
- Sofiya Nzau (Kenya): Globally recognized artist with a standout EDM hit, “Mwaki.”
- Stephen Marley and Jo Mersa Marley (Jamaica): Reggae royalty bringing soulful and heartfelt tracks to the EP.
The first single on the “ONE DRUM” album “AFRO-WAVE” which will be released this Friday, is a international collaboration by South African’s own Scorpion Kings (Kabza De Small and DJ Maphorisa) alongside the legendary house DJ Oskido. This unique offering also features leading Amapiano vocalists TmanXpress and Phila Dloz. Renowned Brazilian Bloc-Afro band Olodum bring in the international Bahia sound blending the Afrohouse with Amapiano beats accompanied with isiZulu lyrics.
AFRO WAVE will be available on all major digital streaming platforms from Friday, 16th August 2024.
TRACK HIGHLIGHT:
- Let’s Dance – A mid-tempo, sultry song featuring Flavour, DJ Oskido, and Olodum that combines samba, rumba, and marimba with Afrobeats and Igbo-highlife elements.
- Coming Home – A deeply emotional track featuring Jo Mersa Marley, Steven Marley, and Thee Legacy among others, celebrates the connection to Africa.
- Stop Stressin is a bass-infused reggae track produced by Commissioner Gordon which also has a dance version produced by Oskido, delivers a message of resilience and positivity.
- Money (Besa) – An EDM-inspired anthem by Sofiya Nzau, sung in Kikuyu, showcasing her charismatic charm and dynamic presence.
- Afro-Wave – A vibrant collaboration by the Scorpion Kings (Kabza De Small, DJ Maphorisa), DJ Oskido, TmanXpress, X-Wise, Phila Dlozi, and Olodum, blending Afrohouse with Amapiano and isiZulu lyrics.
Fans can also look forward to exclusive content, including behind-the-scenes footage and artist interviews on the CANEX Creations Incorporated website or alternatively on the artists social media.