Summer doesn’t have to be loud. It can be calm. It can be soft. It can be you.
It’s June 2025, and if your playlist still has songs such as “Last Last” by Burna Boy, we need to have a serious talk. It’s not even a shade but summer has evolved, and your playlist should too.
When you think of summer, your mind probably jumps to bouncy beats, pool parties, and dancing hysterically like you’re in a Spotify ad. But what about those working 9–5, neck-deep in to-do lists, and barely catching a breeze of enjoyment? What about the version of summer that’s soft, quiet, and deeply intentional?
This list is for you — the overworked, the romantics, the daydreamers, the “I-just-want-peace” crew.
We’ve curated 10 African songs that deserve a spot on your summer playlist. Some are groovy, some are introspective, and some feel like sipping something cold in a moment of calm. Because it’s not always Amapiano and Afropop — sometimes, summer sounds like peace.
1. Fagboo!!! – Marcy WTF ft. Ekotothemoon
If Cruel Santino had a musical cousin who just wants to chill and vibe, it’d be Marcy WTF. “Fagboo!!!” is laced with alternative afrobeats and percussive drums that bounce gently. It’s perfect for a late-night cruise or just catching a thrill from the sound alone.
2. Time Heals – Lady Donli
Lady Donli always delivers soul food through sound. “Time Heals” is soothing, groovy, and aesthetically pleasing in the most Gen Z alté way. The track wraps you in a sonic hug — even when Lagos weather is doing the most.
3. Floating – Tay Iwar
As the name implies, “Floating” is smooth, soulful, and gently wrapped in strings and soft drums. Tay Iwar’s velvet voice literally floats on the track. This one doesn’t just deserve to be on your playlist — it should be the vibe of your entire summer.
4. How I Want It – Anabel Rose
Anabel Rose delivers a sweet, romantic song that feels like a daydream. You might not relate to the lyrics (especially if love has been showing you shege), but the calmness it brings? Pure bliss. It’s the sound of soft love and slower days.
5. CTRL – Merry-Lynn
This isn’t your typical summer jam — and that’s exactly why it works. “CTRL” is for those moments when you want to feel confident, bold, and maybe a little bit like a movie villain in your own life story. Add to playlist. Trust us.
6. Guidance – Maya Amolo
Maya Amolo is sugary vocals and soft harmonies and “Guidance” blends R&B and alté with just enough emotion to make you pause mid-scroll. It feels like staying in on a Friday night with candles and your thoughts. Summer isn’t always about “we outside” — sometimes it’s about being inside and okay with it.
7. CALOGERO – SirBastien
“CALOGERO” is unconventional — maybe even a little odd at first. But that’s part of its charm. It’s the kind of song that fits when you’re riding home, windows down, processing your life. Summer is what you make of it, and this track lets you slow down just enough to feel it.
8. Deda – Samthing Soweto
South African artist Samthing Soweto blesses us with “Deda,” a sunny, light track with log drum influences and smooth vocals. It feels like walking on the beach in your head — because flights are expensive. Play this, close your eyes, and teleport.
9. Tattoo – Mellissa ft. Blaqbonez
This one’s for the lovers — or those currently in their delulu phase. “Tattoo” features soft piano, sexy basslines, and a sweet-raspy blend between Mellissa and Blaqbonez that just works. It’s giving romance, cruise, and ‘Don’t text him back’ energy.
10. Beauty and the Beat – Efue
If your idea of summer involves serenity and quiet magic, Efue’s “Beauty and the Beat” belongs on your playlist. It opens with airy horns and rides out on thudding drums — a beautiful track to close your eyes and lose yourself in.
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