From FIFA World Cup anthems to soulful South African collaborations, this weekend’s releases span some of the biggest names in global and local music.
This week’s releases range from stadium-ready football soundtracks to intimate stories of love, identity and community in a lineup that stretches from Johannesburg and Durban to Miami, Lagos and London.
Our latest new music series roundup highlights some of the standout tracks, albums and announcements making waves across the industry.
Future and Tyla turn up tournament energy
Atlanta rap star Future and South African vocalist Tyla have joined forces on a new single titled “Game Time.” The track features on the upcoming Official FIFA World Cup 2026 Album through SALXCO UAM and Def Jam Recordings.
Grammy-winning producer Cirkut drives the production with heavy brass arrangements and pounding percussion that mirror the anticipation of a major tournament kickoff.
The song blends Future’s trap sound with Tyla’s distinctive South African pop influence, creating a crossover record aimed at football fans across the globe.
Tyla continues to expand her international profile after becoming a Grammy winner and one of South Africa’s most successful global music exports.
“The World Cup is a global stage. We made a record to match that energy. Now you know it’s Game Time,” Future said.
Tyla shared her excitement about joining the official tournament soundtrack.
“Being part of the Official FIFA World Cup 2026™ Album feels like a full circle moment for a girl from South Africa. Let’s go Bafana Bafana!!” she added.
Fans can stream Future and Tyla’s FIFA World Cup anthem ‘Game Time‘ via FIFA Sound on Spotify, Apple Music, Deezer and other major platforms.
Shakira and Burna Boy deliver global anthem
Pop icon Shakira and Nigerian superstar Burna Boy have unveiled the music video for “Dai Dai,” the official song of the FIFA World Cup 2026.
The project supports the FIFA Global Citizen Education Fund, an initiative working toward a USD $100 million fundraising target for underserved communities around the world. Director Hannah Lux Davis filmed the visuals in Miami.
The video includes appearances from football stars Lionel Messi, Kylian Mbappé and Erling Haaland, while also spotlighting the dance talents of Uganda’s Ghetto Kids NGO.
Just 11 days after its release, the official music video had already surpassed 82 million YouTube views, highlighting the global appeal of both artists and the tournament itself.
Shakira will co-headline the FIFA World Cup 2026 Final Halftime Show on July 19, 2026, performing the song alongside Burna Boy, Madonna and BTS.
The Colombian singer has pledged her royalties from the track to the education fund, while Sony Music will match the initiative’s first USD $250,000 in donations.
Readers can watch the official music video for ‘Dai Dai’ on YouTube.
For Burna Boy, the collaboration extends his growing presence on major international stages and sporting platforms, reinforcing Afro-fusion’s expanding global reach.
Sbahle aligns with local vocal queens
Afropop singer Sbahle has released her latest single, “Some More,” a multi-generational collaboration featuring Afrosoul stars Nhlanhla Mafu and Naima Kay.
The song explores themes of romance through poetic Zulu lyrics and warm vocal harmonies. One of its central images references the Drakensberg mountains standing between two separated lovers.
Sbahle says the song reflects vulnerability and romantic devotion.
“As a lover girl, I love speaking about love and the song is also an expression of love in a romantic manner,” she shared.
Mafu contributes a verse centred on enduring love despite outside criticism and doubt.
The single forms part of Sbahle’s ongoing rollout for her broader project, Iscoco Sami, which arrived on May 15.
The Durban-born artist says both guest vocalists played an important role in shaping her own musical journey.
“I grew up listening to most of these artists and in some way they have helped me hone my creativity,” Sbahle explained.
“Some More” is available across major streaming platforms.
DJ Clock makes a return to his roots
DJ Clock has released a new three-track EP titled Radiance, marking a return to the Afro-house sound that helped establish his reputation on South Africa’s dance music scene.
The project features collaborations with Terance QT, Miggs Foreal, Picat Da Italian and Pex Africah. Across its three tracks, the producer leans into uplifting melodies and classic dancefloor arrangements.
DJ Clock describes the EP as a reflection of positivity and creative renewal.
“Radiance represents light, positivity, and the power of music to bring people together. These songs are a reflection of where I am creatively and the energy I want to share with the world,” he said.
‘Radiance‘ is available on major streaming platforms via DJ Clock:s official streaming link.
Ezra Collective links up with Pa Salieu
Mercury Prize-winning group Ezra Collective have announced their fourth studio album, Here Because of Hope, alongside a new single titled “Only Love.”
The track features British-Gambian artist Pa Salieu, while director Ebenza Blanche filmed the accompanying music video in Lagos, Nigeria.
Fans can watch the ‘Only Love‘ music video featuring Pa Salieu on YouTube.
South African audiences recently saw the group perform at the Montreux Jazz Festival South Africa in Johannesburg. Bandleader Femi Koleoso has frequently cited South African jazz icons Abdullah Ibrahim and Hugh Masekela among his strongest musical influences.
Koleoso has also spoken about the impact of Amapiano and contemporary African rhythms on the band’s evolving sound.
‘Here Because of Hope‘ arrives on September 18, 2026, through Partisan Records and explores the journey from collective hardship toward hope and celebration.
