2022 Namibian Music on Our Playlist

In fact, it seems like every day someone is doing something in this country. Our artists stay doing the most! That's why it's imperative that local music gets the recognition and coverage it deserves.The Weekender scoured the net to turn our readers on to what is hot and happening right now…'Fauna' by Morenga featuring Christonix and AYT8What I love about Morenga's sound is that I never know what to expect. His music is something that is super different, but also something you won't soon forget. 'Fauna' has elements of trap and hardcore hip-hop, while incorporating some really eccentric sounds in the background.'Pan It' by Chris Wayne and Don KamatiThis is your typical reggae-inspired dancehall jam. When you first hear it, you might think you're listening to some seasoned West African crooner, especially the way these boys are able to bring the heat over a really good quality production. Don Kamati is always so much fun to listen to, and this song is no exception.'Call Me' by Tswazis featuring Dark VapourThese guys killed it! Tswazis have the keen ability to create a smooth song, and this one is exactly what it needs to be. It has that high-energy Damara punch vibe to it, while Dark Vapour's vocals are reminiscent of the Namibian sound developed and popularised in the early years of the millennium. It sounds super familiar and comforting, while bringing in new elements and a 2022 feel.'Habibi' by Charmy KurzCharmy's voice is angelic. It flows so effortlessly over an amapiano-style beat, produced by Stanzo, with its Middle Eastern-inspired melody and title. It fits well with what we've heard from her before, giving soft and sensual vocals that speak about life and love, and a punchy beat to match.'Flights' by Jean Jacques featuring CabbageI think hip-hop songs always have the most exciting beats and tunes, as rappers create something poetic with the melody. On 'Flights', this comes through quite clearly. The song is a gem that definitely needs to be heard.'2K22 Freestyle' by Mr Diamonds featuring LionessHip-hop is definitely dominating our playlist this month. These artists are really coming through and it's great to see. This song stands out for its hard bars and unapologetic approach to rapping. It's super hardcore and very catchy. Lioness' verse is one of our favourites, and really compliments Mr Diamonds well.'Linyenga' by Lioness and FalzNamibia's queen of rap really knows how to evolve and change. This song is high tempo, energetic and fun from the first second. Lioness and Falz sound good together, and give us a jam perfect for any club night or party. It's great to get that cross-continental vibe, and it would be interesting to see 'Linyenga' performed live.'Enemies' by HansoloThere are some songs you just have to listen to on your late-night cruises. This is exactly that tune. It's a trap song, with non-stop bar after bar after bar. It reminds you just how rough and gruff rappers can be, while giving elements of that 2000s hip-hop sound we all love.'Itiitilasha' by Young TIt's great when Young T releases new music. There is something so comforting and familiar about his sound, and no matter the content of the song, he comes across as someone who makes music so naturally. This song is a party and a half – a must-listen!– Anne Hambuda is a poet, writer, social commentator and media personality. Email her at annehambuda@gmail.com for more.

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