The “One Drum” EP is produced by DJ Oskido (pictured) and Gordon “The Commissioner” Williams. Picture: Instagram.
Earlier this year, music-lovers got a taste of a unique music collaboration from artists in Africa and its diaspora with the release of two hit singles, “Afro Wave” and “Let’s Dance”.
The songs were produced especially for the “One Drum” EP, which is a musical project that celebrates the cultural ties that unite Africa and its diaspora by paying homage to the rhythms, traditions, and the history that have been carried across continents.
Now, the highly-anticipated EP, which consists of eight tracks, is available on all digital streaming platforms.
It has been released in partnership with CANEX Creations Incorporated, an initiative powered by Afrexim Bank’s Creative Africa Nexus (CANEX) programme.
The EP features iconic South African music producers, DJ Oskido, DJ Maphorisa, Kabza De Small and musical pioneer and multi-Grammy award-winning producer, Gordon “The Commissioner” Williams.
It also features Nigerian sensation Flavour, Jamaican legend Buju Banton, reggae royalty Stephen Marley, Kenyan singer Sofiya Nzau and the late Joseph “Mercar” Marley, alongside his brothers Zion Marley and Thee Legacy, a South African isicathamiya ensemble among other talents.
At the heart of this project lies a vision to bridge the geographical divide within the African community and its global counterparts.
The EP showcases the rhythm of Africa with Afrobeat, reggae, and amapiano and stands as a testimony to the power of music in uniting communities and celebrating cultural heritage.
The EP’s lead track, “Stop Stressin” produced by The Commissioner, is a masterful blend of Afrobeat and reggae and delivers a message of resilience and positivity.
Adding to the EP's dynamic flair is Nzau's “Besa”, which, according to a statement, promises to be a massive hit on dance floors worldwide.
“The song comes in two captivating versions: an Afrohouse version, rich with deep African rhythms, and an energetic amapiano version that transforms the track into a must-hear club anthem.
“Sung in Kikuyu, Sofiya's charismatic charm and powerful delivery shine through, making ‘BESA’ a standout performance that speaks to her unique versatility and global appeal,” read the statement.
Nzau added: “The energy behind ‘Besa’ is about freedom, joy and the beat of Africa's heart. I wanted the song to capture the essence of who we are while making people dance.”
Other standouts on the “One Drum” EP is the profoundly spiritual single, “Coming Home”, which calls on the African diaspora to re-establish ties to their homeland.
It features the late Mercar, his brothers and Thee Legacy.
“The ‘One Drum’ EP is more than just music; it is a celebration of cultural unity and heritage, as artists from across the world come together to honour their shared history and rhythm.
“With stunning collaborations from Africa, the Caribbean, and beyond, this EP promises to be a groundbreaking musical moment,” the statement ended.
∎ The “One Drum” EP is out now on all major music streaming platforms.