The first quarter of 2026 has been relatively quiet for Afrobeats compared to previous years. However, while attention remained on a few prominent names, several artists released noteworthy projects. Here are eight albums and EPs worth your time.
1. Hybrid by Shoday (Album)
Shoday's debut album, Hybrid, had been building anticipation through early singles. While this strategy generated buzz, it also meant that many listeners had already heard the best tracks before the album's release. This front-loading diminishes the full-album experience. Nonetheless, Hybrid serves as a solid introduction from an artist still finding his voice, though it falls short of being a landmark debut.
2. Hood Boy Dreams 2 by Jeriq (EP)
Six years after the original, Jeriq returns with Hood Boy Dreams 2, a six-track EP that continues his honest and uncompromising storytelling. Rooted in lived experience, the project sharpens the edges of its predecessor without softening them. Jeriq's growth as a craftsperson is evident, making this a compelling listen for fans of Nigerian hip-hop.
3. Black Sheepizen (The 13th Disciple) by Tuff King (Album)
Tuff King operates in a similar lane as Odumodublvck and 6uff, blending low-register vocals with drill and grime influences. His album Black Sheepizen (The 13th Disciple) follows his 2024 EP, showcasing strong inspiration. However, the quality varies across tracks; when the writing is tight, the album rewards patience, but inconsistencies reveal cracks.
4. Testimony of Grace by Ice Prince (Album)
Released less than a year after his joint project with Chopstix, Testimony of Grace finds Ice Prince in a reflective mood. The album blends Afrobeats, rap, and contemporary sounds, featuring collaborations with Niniola, Skiibii, Ria Sean, Sinzu, and Medikal. It is a personal project with clear intent, though whether the execution matches the title's weight depends on the listener.
5. Kurima Too by Priesst (EP)
Abuja-based artist Priesst released Kurima Too quietly, but it demands attention. The eight-track EP features mellow production, clean arrangements, and strong lyricism, exploring themes of personal growth and self-examination. Priesst is an artist to watch, and this EP is a confident statement.
6. Another One by Korede Bello (EP)
Korede Bello's six-track EP runs approximately fifteen minutes and delivers exactly what it promises. Another One blends Afropop with romance, showcasing noticeably sharper vocal control than earlier works. While familiar to fans, the EP offers comfort within a well-defined sound.
7. Agaba Romantic by Joeboy and Wizard Chan (EP)
The collaboration between Joeboy and Wizard Chan is an unexpected success. Joeboy's melodic softness contrasts with Wizard Chan's raw, Delta-influenced style, yet the seven-track EP achieves cohesion. Consistent storytelling and honest emotion make Agaba Romantic a lingering project.
8. Rumberas by Iyanya (EP)
Iyanya continues his comeback with Rumberas, an EP focused on rhythm and melody. Club-oriented and built for nightlife, the project does not aim to reinvent but rather to solidify his return. It is a sensible and enjoyable step forward for the artist.
