It was mother’s day this past weekend and in celebration of strong women, Radr Africa has compiled this list of books featuring them to enjoy. In addition to the books, there is also a cache of new songs releases that readers simply must not miss out on
Music
Kritikal- Kobi Jonz
Kobi Jonz paints a disappointing yet crystal clear image of the current political climate across the diaspora and local scenes. The track opens with a passionate speech berating the government for their lack of decisive policies and provision for youth. Kobi Jonz along with a bold saxophone accompaniment encourages listeners to put their heads down and seize their future with their own hands.
Feeling- LADIPOE & Buju
Looking for an upbeat song to hype yourself up? LADIPOE and Buju have got you covered! The two switch effortlessly between the hook and their verses. LADIPOE’s smooth intricate metaphors will excite listeners while Buju brings the heat with amazing vocals.
Pempe- Sheyi Shay & Yemi Alade
The queen of francophone music and the Famous Nigerian Idol coach team up on this catchy upbeat track. The song is punctuated with amazing vocals, full drum sounds and delightful harmonization. The artistes have great sync and sound great together on this track emphasizing their autonomy over their bodies.
Touch It- KiDi
This track has heavy reggaeton/reggae dancehall influences. Merges with the afrobeat instrumental, the song becomes lively as it embodies two similar energies. The artist sings about relaxing and taking it easy because problems never end.
Books
Efuru- Flora Nwapa
Efuru is a novel by Flora Nwapa published in 1966 as number 26 in Heinemann’s African Writers Series, making it the first book written by a Nigerian woman, in fact, any African woman, to be published internationally.
The book follows the story of Efuru, an Igbo woman who lives in a small village in colonial West Africa. Throughout the story, Efuru wishes to be a mother, though she is an independent-minded woman and respected for her trading ability. Flora Nwapa carries us through the protagonist’s rocky marriages and tough decisions. The book is rich in portrayals of the Igbo culture and of different scenarios which have led to its current status as a feminist and classical cultural work.
The Bride Price- Buchi Emecheta
The Bride Price was the first novel Buchi Emecheta wrote, but its original version was lost when her husband threw the manuscript on the fire – an act of destruction which proved to be the last straw in an abusive marriage that she subsequently left.
The book tells the story of Aku-nna who loses her father early in the story and goes back to the village with her mother. There she grows up and falls in love with her Teacher Chike who she elopes with because her step father wouldn’t consent to their marriage. Its a book heavy with culture and truth, a must read.
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