Welcome back to Parsons Playlists! Today’s playlist is curated by Music Library student manager Laeticia (class of 2026) and features some Afrobeats and Amapiano tracks for your summer enjoyment!
Sounds Like Summer 2.0: Afrobeats & Amapiano
Spring is here, and honestly, my mind is already somewhere warm. I’m thinking picture-perfect weather, good vibes, and even better company. This time of year always has me reminiscing on my favorite summers, the kind filled with just the right mix of heat, laughter, and music that makes every moment feel like a movie scene. That music, for me, has always been Afrobeats and Amapiano.
If you haven’t been fully introduced to the world of African music yet, let me be the one to do it. Afrobeats and Amapiano have taken over dance floors, rooftops, and radio stations across the globe, and they deserve just as much shine here on campus. These genres are cultural, joyful, and layered with history, movement, and feeling. There is a richness to this music that goes beyond the beat, and once it gets into you, it doesn’t leave.
We’re deep in one of the most demanding stretches of the semester, and what better way to push through than with music that refuses to let the energy drop? I have put together the ultimate Afrobeats and Amapiano playlist filled with songs that carry that warm-weather feeling no matter what the forecast says. Think of this as your early introduction to the soundtrack of your summer. Every track on this list is one you will hear at a function, and you will want to know every word when that moment hits.
So consider this your invitation into the world of Afrobeats and Amapiano, and thank me later!
Cizo ft. Thukuthela, Jazzworx, Omah Lay, & Tems – “Isaka II (6am)”
NO11 ft. Ajah Bobo – “How Far”
TxC ft. Davido, Shoday, Scotts Maphuma, Zlatan & Al Xapo – “Nakupenda”
Mavo ft. Ayra Starr & Shallipopi – “Escaladizzy II”
Davido ft. Omah Lay – “With You”
Uncle Waffles & Tony Duardo ft. Sina Msolo & Boibizza – “Tanzania”
Darkoo ft. Dess Dior & Rema – “Favorite Girl”
Pcee & Justin99 – “Kilimanjaro”
Shakes & Les ft. Lee Mckrazy – “Funk 99”
Kabza de Small & DJ Maphorisa ft. Ami Faku – “Abalele”
Mshayi ft. Mr. Thela & T-Man – “iParty”
Mid9t ft. Officixl Rsa – “Banyana”
Tyler ICU ft. LeeMcKrazy, Tman Xpress, Visca, Ceeka RSA, Sjavasdadeejayj & Al Xapo – “Ebasini”
Here is a link to the whole playlist on YouTube:
