Entertainment

Drake Urges SZA to Unleash “Joni” – Will the Iconic Collab Finally Drop

Drake Urges SZA to Unleash “Joni” – Will the Iconic Collab Finally Drop

Drake is turning up the heat, calling on SZA to release her unreleased gem, “Joni.” The Canadian superstar took to Instagram, sharing a snippet of SZA’s track on Soundcloud and pleading, “My 🐐, pls drop this.” Originally teased in a 2020 Rolling Stone interview, the minute-long trap beat, narrated from Joni Mitchell’s perspective, has already made waves online. With Drake’s endorsement, the question now lingers: will “Joni” see the light of day?

SZA, riding high on her musical triumphs, wrapped up 2023 with a bang. “Snooze,” a standout from her 2022 album SOS, remained the only single to grace every Billboard Hot 100 chart throughout the year. Expressing gratitude, SZA acknowledged her fans, saying, “I’m so grateful to everyone in this comment section that streamed and supported me!! GOD BLESS YOU! Thank you so much.”

In a surprising turn of events, DJ Akademiks spilled the beans on Drake’s attempt to mend fences with SZA last year. Characterizing the conversation as “very polite,” Akademiks revealed Drake’s sincere efforts to find middle ground amid their past differences. “I love her, and I actually went back on my platform and I said that listen, I was sending nothing but love and light,” Akademiks shared with DJ Vlad.

However, SZA hasn’t been immune to Akademiks’ outspoken nature. In a controversial August incident, the DJ faced backlash for fat-shaming SZA on his massive social platform. The verbal attack drew criticism for its explicit content, with Akademiks stating, “Let me keep it a bean, SZA is as fat as me. That’s 100 percent facts.” The incident sparked outrage, shedding light on the ongoing dynamic between the artist and the DJ.

As the drama unfolds, the spotlight remains on “Joni” – will SZA heed Drake’s call and bless the world with this long-awaited collaboration? Only time will tell.

Artist Spotlight

Seun Kuti & Egypt 80 makes a stand for afrobeat against corruption on latest release Na Dem feat. Tom Morello.

Seun Kuti & Egypt 80 deliver a powerful afrobeat statement with “Na Dem,” Featuring Tom Morello and produced by Femi Koleoso. The track has been a fan favourite even before its official release, and comes with the unmistakable spirit of protest, truth-telling, and social accountability that have long characterized Afrobeat’s most impactful moments.

The song’s heart is a direct challenge to corruption and the abuse of power. Instead of singling out one profession or institution for its critique, “Na Dem” identifies a larger culture of dishonesty, targeting bad lawyers, bad doctors, bad politicians, and anyone who would sell their integrity for personal gain. The message is sharp and uncompromising and delivered with the urgency that has become a hallmark of Seun Kuti’s artistry.

The inclusion of Tom Morello adds another level of intensity to the record. His presence adds to the song’s rebellious energy, creating a powerful intersection between the rhythmic activism of Afrobeat and the confrontational edge of rock. The result of the collaboration is a track that is both timeless and of the moment.

The song’s dedication to principle is what rings true. The moral center of the record is Seun’s statement that he would never prostitute his conscience for money. It turns “Na Dem” from a critique into a declaration of personal values, responsibility, and resistance.

Connect with Seun Kuti & Egypt 80 on Spotify || Instagram || Facebook || Youtube

Artist Spotlight

Marsha Bartenetti reinvents in her own style “New York Minute”

Marsha Bartenetti’s latest release, “New York Minute,” written by Don Henley, Danny Kortchmar, and Jai Winding, offers emotional depth, turning a timeless look at life’s fragility into a reflective, cinematic journey. Stephan Oberhoff’s arrangement perfectly frames Bartenetti’s voice, and Kevin Bate’s expressive cello adds a warm resonance that makes the track feel like a movie.

The way each instrument sounds makes it feel planned, which lets the listener stay in the fleeting moments the song so beautifully describes. Bartenetti’s singing is the best part of the song. She shows an openness that feels real, as if she has lost something and still fully embraces love and presence with complete honesty. Her choice of words and small changes in tone make the lyrics feel even closer.

“New York Minute,” is a new version that pays tribute to the original while showcasing Bartenetti’s own style. The movie-like instruments and heartfelt vocals make the song feel both personal and universal. It makes us think about how hard it is to let go and hold on.

Connect with Marsha Bartenetti on Spotify || Facebook