New Music Friday: Joe Jonas, Ardykwait, and Rihanna Debut First Song in 3 Years
This week’s list of New Music Friday tracks leans a lot heavier than previous ones, playlist offers a diverse selection of tracks from both established and emerging artists, long-waited albums, from notable artists and labels including Rihanna, Republic Records, Joe Jonas, Ardykwait and others, promising an exciting listening experience for music fans across the United States and beyond. With a variety of genres ranging from pop to hip-hop, dancehall and afrobeats, this week’s lineup caters to a wide range of musical tastes.
Joe Jonas — “Music for People Who Believe in Love”
American singer-songwriter Joe Jonas, best known as a member of the pop rock band Jonas Brothers, has released his highly anticipated solo album titled ‘Music for People Who Believe in Love.’ The artist took to social media to share the news, revealing that the album was set for release on May 23.
The project serves as a follow-up to Jonas’ debut solo album, ‘Fastlife,’ which was released in 2011. In an interview on Jake Shane’s podcast, ‘Therapuss,’ Jonas stated that he sought the support and “blessings” from his fellow Jonas Brothers members, Kevin and Nick Jonas, before embarking on this solo venture. Once he received their backing, the album came together within a matter of two to three weeks.
READ ALSO: Mahmoud hails female journalists’ role in curbing insecurity
In a recent interview with Billboard, Joe Jonas shed light on the creative process behind his new album, sharing how it diverges from his previous solo work. The singer expressed pride in his earlier songs but acknowledged that the new music feels like it comes from a different person entirely, stating that, although he is proud of those songs, “it feels like a different person”. Jonas described the experience of creating this album as both frightening and liberating, and that his life experiences, being a father, and going through a divorce helped him shape the album. He further said that, even though the music feels very personal to his life experiences, he isn’t “trying to come for anyone” in the new album.
Ardykwait — “Turn Up”
American singer-songwriter Ademola Adeleke, better known as Ardykwait, recently released his latest single titled “Turn Up.” The afro-pop track, produced by LayKay Beats, features an infectious blend of skittering drums, pulsing synth bass, and Adeleke’s energetic vocals. The Philadelphia-based Nigerian-American artist took to Instagram last week to announce the highly anticipated release.
Reflecting on the challenges faced by artists in their pursuit of success, Ardykwait emphasized the importance of patience and persistence in an interview with Pensioners FM. He shared that while the journey to fame and recognition can be arduous, those who remain focused and dedicated to their craft will eventually see the rewards of their hard work.
“Nothing worthwhile comes easy,” Ardykwait stated. “As an artist, you need to be patient with yourself. The music industry is tough, and there will be times when things don’t go as planned. But the key is to keep pushing, keep learning, and stay true to your craft.”
Rihanna — “Friend of Mine”
In a recently report, Barbadian singer and global superstar Rihanna dropped her first song in nearly three years as part of the upcoming Smurfs movie soundtrack. The song, titled “Friend of Mine,” released on May 16, marking the artist’s highly anticipated return to the music scene.
Rihanna shared the news alongside a trailer for the film on May 14, offering a glimpse of the song in the teaser. The track features the artist’s vocals over a dreamy, Afrobeats-inspired dance melody, with the lyrics, “You’re looking like a friend of mine.”
In addition to her musical contribution, Rihanna is also the voice of Smurfette in the film, starring alongside a notable cast including John Goodman, James Corden, Nick Offerman, and Sandra Oh. The singer is also a producer for the project, further showcasing her multi-faceted involvement in the venture.
The Smurfs movie, directed by Chris Miller, follows the eponymous blue creatures on a quest to save Papa Smurf from the clutches of evil wizards. Set for a July 18 release, this marks the first Smurfs film since 2017’s Smurfs: The Lost Village.
The star-studded soundtrack for the film also includes contributions from artists such as Tyla and the track “Higher Love” by DJ Khaled, Cardi B, and DESI TRILL, which was released in February. With the impressive lineup of talent involved, the Smurfs movie and its accompanying soundtrack promise to delight audiences worldwide.
Upcoming Notable Record Label Releases to Watch Out For in June:
Addison Rae, Addison (Columbia Records), Cynthia Erivo, I Forgive You (Verve Records/Republic Record), Cypress Hill, Black Sunday Live at the Royal Albert Hall (Mercury Studios), Lil Wayne, Tha Carter VI, Pulp, More (Rough Trade), Neil Young and the Chrome Hearts, Talkin to the Trees (Reprise Records), The Cure, Mixes of a Lost World(Fiction/Capitol Records), Van Morrison, Remembering Now, Haim, I Quit (Columbia Records), Yungblud, Idols (Locomotion/Island Records), Barbra Streisand, The Secret of Life: Partners, Volume Two (Columbia Records), F1: The Album (Atlantic Records), Johnel NG, Love & War (Nnamani Music Group), KATSEYE, BEAUTIFUL CHAOS (HYBE x Geffen Records), Lorde, Virgin (Republic)
