DJ Oskido and The Scorpion Kings have been featured on the “One Drum” EP alongside top global artists.
The musical offering, which is a collaborative project that bridges the gap between cultures and genres and celebrates the rich musical heritage of Africa and its diaspora, includes talents from the Caribbean, Brazil, the USA and Europe.
It is being released in partnership with CANEX Creations Incorporated, an initiative powered by Afrexim Bank’s Creative Africa Nexus (CANEX) programme.
“Afro-Wave”, the first single on the EP, which will be released on Friday, August 16, features South Africa's Scorpion Kings, comprising of Kabza De Small and DJ Maphorisa.
The duo feature on the track alongside legendary house music artist, DJ Oskido.
This unique offering also features leading amapiano vocalists TmanXpress and Phila Dloz. Meanwhile, renowned Brazilian Bloc-Afro band Olodum brings in the international Bahia sound, fusing Afrohouse with amapiano beats as well as isiZulu lyrics.
Meanwhile, the rest of the songs on the EP, which are set to be released soon, includes other more offerings from Olodum, who are renowned for their iconic Yoruba drumming and collaborations with legends like Michael Jackson and Paul Simon.
America’s Commissioner Gordon Williams, an executive producer who is acclaimed for his work with Lauryn Hill, Amy Winehouse and Carlos Santana will also be showcased on “One Drum”, together with Kenyan artist Sofiya Nzau, as well as Jamaica’s Stephen Marley and Jo Mersa Marley, whose reggae sounds include soulful and heartfelt tracks.
In addition, Oskido will also add his skill set to the upcoming single on the EP, “Let's Dance”, a mid-tempo, sultry song featuring Flavour and Olodum that combines samba, rumba and marimba with Afrobeats and Igbo-highlife elements.
He also produced the dance version of “Stop Stressin”, a bass-infused reggae track produced by Williams, which delivers a message of resilience and positivity.
“‘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,” a statement read.
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,” they added in a statement.
“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.”
∎ “Afro Wave will be available on all major digital streaming platforms from Friday, August 16.