7Heats is UpperEnt’s weekly playlist of the seven songs we believe are worth your immediate attention. This review is the editorial extension of that list. Here, we explain why each record made the cut, what is happening inside the music, and what these choices say about the current state of African pop. If the playlist tells you what to hear, this column tells you what you’re actually listening to.
Burn by Africaine
Burn is an intricate interplay of R&B and Afrobeats, exposing how well these genres complement each other. It is a slow song with a mild coolth and the smooth melodic flows, soft percussion, and empathetic layering appropriately carry the song’s emotional thematic intent. It draws you gradually, enthusing you to internalise its lyrical value. Burn is about heartbreak, but more so, it is about emotional release. It emphasises self-awareness, acceptance, and a burning desire to forget. It is a late-night retrospection woven into melodies and lyrics, exploring the motifs of desire and emotional tension. As Africaine explores an aspect of the human condition, there’s a sense of connection that greatly adds to the song’s emotional feel.
Jam by Fally Ipupa feat Wizkid
Jam blends modern Congolese rumba with Afrobeats. Fally Ipupa brings his melodic proclivities—charismatic delivery, vocal layering, and harmonic richness—which pairs really well with Wizkid’s relaxed cadence. The chemistry feels natural and interdependent.
Jam is thoroughly refined and smooth. It has a subtle temperature, operating on a mild intensity that keeps you drawn and moving.
Abracadabra By Tochi Bedford
Abracadabra feels playful and experimental, carrying a very distinct sound that differs considerably from contemporary rap. Tochi brings an alternative and catchy vibe with Abracadabra. The song brings something different , an unpredictability that blends well with his quirky lyrics and slightly offbeat texture. It radiates confidence and an authorial intent to express personality and creativity. It is a refreshing and different interpretation of rap that is indicative of raw creativity.
She Did It Again by Tyla feat Zara Larsson
She Did It Again brings vibrancy, confidence, and an emphatic pop energy—exactly what you would expect from a Tyla track. Invariably, she brings her feminine charisma and rhythmic bounce, which seamlessly integrates with Zara Larsson’s powerful vocal presence. The production is refined and sleek, and the hooks are compelling with an upbeat tempo that keeps you engaged and moving. There’s a confidence that carries the track a certain way, a certain momentum that draws you to a state of allure and gaiety.
Chanel by La Mano 1.9
Chanel is intense, and ladened with dense, heavy bass. It is s street anthem that ponders on presense rather than complexity. It it builds on its topical essense, buidling around the luxury brand (Chanel) as a symbol for status and wealth. It leans towards an aggressive tempo with trap influence. It exposes a fine balances between grits and glamour, marrying street hustle and wealth actualisation.
Je M’Appelle by Didi B, Zlatan & Chley
“Je m’appelle” is hip-hop, Afrobeat traditions, and Amapiano layered into a fun, club-style track. It’s an upbeat track that brings a frisky vibe that commands a sporadic bodily response—you don’t listen to Je m’appelle; you react to it. Each party on the track brings their own flair and sonic proclivity. Didi brings momentum through his rhythmic flow and sparse repetition of the title, which brings a certain energetic feel. Zlatan brings his bounce, street-like cadence, and ad-libs to the track, further adding to its party feel. Chley brings a certain balance, pushing the amapiano vibes.
Shaba by Spinall, Mavo and Deto Black
As Shaba begins, you’re immediately hit with a cool, calm temperature that immediately radiates that nightlife `energy. There’s an even-tempered feel that is appropriately maintained throughout the entire track. There are no sudden outbursts or aggressive interjections. Both vocalists parallel each other in both delivery and harmony. As the song lingers, it draws you into a state of peace that allows you to properly wash, rinse, and repeat.
