Selections: DJ Neptune
In this series, Selections, we invite DJs, producers and label heads to dig into their digital crates and share the contents of their collections. This week, Nigeria’s DJ Neptune spotlights his recent favourite Afrobeats, Afropop and amapiano tracks
Lagos’ DJ Neptune has been at the forefront of Nigeria’s music scene for over a decade. The award winning artist rose to prominence as backing DJ and hype man for rapper Naeto C in the late 2000s, before striking out on his own to become a star in his own right in the world of Afrobeats, Afropop and hip-hop. He released his landmark debut album in 2018, which featured collaborations with globally renowned artists Burna Boy, Davido, Mr Eazi, Kizz Daniel and Olamide.
In November last year, DJ Neptune released ‘Greatness 2.0’, another star-studded offering that saw him drawing influence from a variety of styles from across the continent, from Afrobeats and amapiano to the rising Ghanaian drill sound of Asakaa. You can listen to the album here.
Speaking about the album, DJ Neptune said: “With this project, I wanted to create something that people of different age brackets, and fans of different genres of music, can connect with. I’ve been able to conquer my market in Nigeria, and now this is me moving out of my homebase and spreading my wings across other regions of Africa.”
With years of experience under his belt as a club DJ, DJ Neptune’s Selections are chosen with one thing in mind: capturing a perfect vibe for the dancefloor. Spotlighting his favourite recent Afrobeats, Afropop and amapiano tracks, it’s safe to say he’s succeeded. Dig in below.
“This record is by far one of my favourites from the last quarter of 2021. A very melodious, mid-tempo smash hit that keeps the ladies on their feet, vibing and singing along. It’s almost impossible for me not to spin this record when I’m DJing at an event.”
“Wande cCal is by far one of the best, if not the best, vocalists we have in Africa and if you have been following his music you would agree with me. I’ve had the opportunity of seeing him make music and the kid is exceptional. As a music producer, you better be prepared when you get the chance to be in the studio with Wande Coal. Immediately the beat goes off, Wande attacks it and boom you have a smash hit.”
“Big up the man WizKid. There is nothing much to say about him that you don’t already know. He has done a lot for the Afrobeats genre and we love him.”
“One of the leading new school artists with a lot of smash hits to his name already. This recently released song is currently doing well on the UK chart, breaking boundaries and setting new records with remix features from Ed Sheeran, 21 Savage and Blxst. His songs are on heavy rotation on my radio and event playlists.”
“Adekunle Gold’s switch from being that regular Nigerian artist to becoming a world class Afropop artist needs to be studied. From the sound of his music to his looks and entire branding, it’s phenomenal. Homeboy hasn’t disappointed me and this particular record featuring Davido makes the crowd go crazy anytime it comes on during my set.”
“Big up my brother from South Africa who has been giving us back to back hits.”
“From his days at Mavin Records, I have always believed in Reekado Banks’ ability to deliver anytime, any day. He was off the scene for a little while and I’m glad he is back on course with a powerful EP project. ‘Ozumba Mbadiwe’ is one of the huge hits on that project and I like the fact that this song is danceable and at the same time has a strong message. I love his music and I play a lot of his stuff during my sets.”
“Joeboy pon deck! Also one of the new breed who has proven to the world that his success is not a fluke and he is here to rule. His records are very contagious with sweet melodies and vibes on vibes. Very talented and confident with his craft. I jam his songs everywhere I find myself performing as a DJ.”
“It’s Buju to the world. His entrance into the music scene was gradual and when it was his time he was fully outside. Steady killing every sound he jumps on, it’s almost impossible to turn deaf ears to his sweet vocals. I love his music and sound.”
“Shout out Davido, He has been in the industry for a decade and he is still moving strong. He recently teamed up with South Africa’s own Focalistic on an amapiano vibe, another strong genre from Africa spilling out to the world. I like the method they used in releasing this record. I was one of the very few DJs who first received this record and I’ve been playing it for months. Basically this song was already an anthem in the club scene before it’s official release to the public. Nice strategy, indeed a champion sound.”
