It only seems like yesterday that 2024 had arrived. Yet, we’re on its final stretch, which brings us to the perfect opportunity to look back at its music landscape, and pick out the projects we believe stood out from the crowd and will set a mark for years to come. It has been without a doubt the year of innovation, reflection, pushing boundaries and coming back to one’s roots, while being unapologetically themselves. Whether it is Nigerian artist Rema finding inspiration in the original fast-rhythmic of Afrobeat or French duo Tayc and Dadju embarking in their own fresh and new interpretation of Rumba chords. With a lot of beloved artists announcing their retirement this year, there is an undeniable calling for a new era in music, which appears to be as diverse in sound and genre-bending as ever before. This carefully-crafted list is a merge of the Deeds’ team playlists and highlights what we rank as the the top 10 most influential albums that were released in 2024.
When Rema screamed on the stage of his homecoming concert; “You can take the boy out of Benin but not the Benin out of the boy!”, he wasn’t lying. Just as we thought he had reached his peak of stardom with ‘Calm Down’ featuring the American Pop-singer Selena Gomez, the Afrorave instigator returned to the Benin soil and took its deeply-rooted elements to create something refreshing and new. When listening to the album ‘HEIS’ released in July 2024, Rema’s mission is blatantly clear; and that is to officially claim the crown as the prince of Afrobeat, and 4th ranking in the big Three conversation, which includes Wizkid, Davido and Burna Boy respectively. The overall ambience is ecstatic, lyrics and vocals are raw and moobish, with an aesthetic and aura arguably taking a nudge from Playboi Carti’s recent playbook.
In terms of musical pairing in the last decade, there is no better French duo than Tayc and Dadju, which was proven in their collaborative album ‘Heritage’ that was released in February 2024. Never mind the first two singles ‘Makila: Wablé’ and ‘I Love You’ that had struck us by surprise, due to rumours of feuds between them via. Social media. They really set the tone for the year and their presence still resonates with us in December. Their album takes homage to their African origins of both Cameroon and Congo, whilst highlighting pivotals of each culture such as the importance of marriage, family and love. With special appearances of Gims, Singuila, Fally Ipupa, Tiakola and Samuel Eto’o; just to name a few, this project feels like a communal reunion. In recognition of the source to their music gene and overall success, the album presents itself as a foundation to the new French-Afro landscape.
If we’re talking about the UK music scene and emerging genres, then nothing comes as close as the rebirth of the 2010s Jerk/Swag era. However, it would be a mistake to simply categorize Lancey, Len and Fimiguerro’s first collaborative album ‘CONGLOMERATE’ released in November 2024 as such. Perhaps in a quest to solidify their dominance in music conversation for the past few years, the two new artists and mentor came together and gave us a project of a lifetime. In under just a month, they have completely taken over the limelight. With purposeful details running through the soundscape, everyone’s rap pen and even the clothing style, these boys set a whole new standard. And everyone is taking notes, from the East Coast of America to London city.
The Nigerian queen is here and she has brought all of her charm with her! Released in June 2024, ‘Born in the Wild’ is Tems’ debut studio album that, just like fine wine, is meant to age with time. From a first listen, it might seem as though the Lagos based singer is holding on to her guns, as she does it well. However, when one truly pays attention, then you would notice that those are songs that should accompany you as you walk through the journey of life and face obstacles, so to speak. Tems truly knows how to portray the complexity of love well and her record is as warm as the sun.
True to his Yoruba beginnings, Asake stunts the world with his third album ‘Lungu Boy’ released in August 2024. Contrary to what his singles ‘Active’ featuring Travis Scott and ‘Wave’ with Central Cee may give off, the overall album takes a surfaced-level look into the struggles of handling his current lifestyle coming from the ghetto/hood, or lungu in Yoruba language. In contrast to his previous projects, Asake definitely took a step down, using less of his interpretation of Amapiano drums, and focusing more on the content of his lyrics than providing dance anthems that we’re used to. Perhaps to shed light in his journey thus far, reflecting on the obstacles and overall feelings he’s working on. But even on some rainy days, Asake always knows how to bring back the sunshine and makes sure to deliver his signature sound in party songs.
Tyla, Tyla, Tyla… What is there not to like? Released in March 2024, self-titled debut album ‘TYLA+’ did her best impression of Amapiano and represented her South African roots well. Adored by many around the world, her sound is magnetic and at ease. Both easy on the eyes and ears, her songs are as catchy as simply-put, which would explain her quick rise to fame outside of the African continent. Anyone and everyone can fall in love with her music, as she focuses on reachability over relatability, nuance more than squeezing some depth and merit into the lyrics. It is a question of her own doing if she will choose to reveal more of herself in her next project.
Yseult’s journey in the music industry is like no other. And to be able to claim a very successful career as an independent artist is even more rare. Everything really took a turn for the best in her highly-experimental second album ‘Mental’ released in
September 2024, where she pushed for a genre-bending yet extremely vulnerable musical experience. It’s not everyday that a French artist may breach between the English and French-speaking set of audiences; however, Yseult does it all. This deeply-personal project is not far-off to the themes and dauntingness she is used to project in her past songs, but it gives off a different outlook. ‘Mental’ is truly a full-embodiment of everything that makes the starlet; an authentic and courageous artist not afraid to rise against the odds.
Announced as his final album as he ventures to retirement, Belgium's favourite rapper Damso places all of his cards on the table in the album ‘J’ai Menti’ released in November 2024. Like the title may imply, Damso treats this highly-personal project almost like a diary as he confesses to his moralless actions. Making use of a range of musical styles such as Afrobeat, French rap and more, he attempts to show a most genuine look into the layers of his flawed soul. This brings forth the subject of infidelity, love of money and glimpse of an existential crisis. As the final chapter, this album is a gift to his fans as the imperfect man behind the rapper is finally revealed in its truest form and best music yet.
Released in July 2024, ‘Being Poor is Expensive’ is Bashy’s one of many albums; however, one of his strongest yet to ever drop. The North-West London rapper takes us on a journey past his childhood, from the lens of everything delving around the subject of money. Vibing on clean beats, Bashy’s storytelling is immaculate, while making you bop your head as much as feeling intrigued to the build-up of each chapter in his life carefully displayed.
Perhaps a shocker to most, it goes without saying that Llona’s debut album ‘Homeless’ had one of the most cohesive bodies of work to come out this year. The project feels like Kano-State born artist’s symbolic mirror being reflected upon us and as a result, urges us to confront ourselves. Llona takes his time to unfold his greatest fears in life, while reminding us of his resilience and the heart of the lion he carries. He takes us in a ride of his difficult childhood, which makes mention of a broken home and promises. Finally, he decides to end his album with the virtue of forgiveness, as he recognizes his imperfections and traits he still has to work on.
