Apple Music’s Rap Life Radio, presented by Global Editorial Head of Hip-Hop and R&B Ebro Darden, will feature Ghanaian icon Joey B this month, as Ebro and Africa Now Radio host Nandi Madida discuss his latest single, “Exopa” featuring Odunsi (The Engine), taken from his new project, Sexy Highlife. Inspired by the zouk and kompa records that soundtracked his childhood, “Exopa” finds Joey B stepping into new sonic territory, blending smooth Caribbean influences with his signature contemporary African sensibility.
At the heart of “Exopa” is Joey B’s instinct for reinvention. Long celebrated for pushing the boundaries of Afrobeats, Highlife and alternative African music, the Ghanaian star continues to challenge expectations with a sound that feels both familiar and forward-looking. The track offers another glimpse into Sexy Highlife, a project that bridges cultures, generations and genres while reaffirming Joey B’s place as one of Africa’s most innovative musical voices.
Alongside Joey B, Rap Life Africa will also spotlight Rush-Awa’s debut single “Lapisa” featuring Lowfeye, LaCabra, and dolphin_dx. The new duo, formed by South African hitmakers DJ Sliqe and MashBeatz, make an explosive entrance with a high-energy anthem rooted in collaboration, culture and the fearless creativity of South Africa’s new generation. Also featured is Cassper Nyovest’s “PHUNYUKA BAMPHETHE”, a powerful statement piece that pairs his trademark lyrical confidence with a more mature perspective centred on love, fulfilment and personal growth.
Spotlight On
For more than a decade, Joey B has occupied a singular position within African music. Widely recognised as one of Ghana’s most influential and forward-thinking artists, he has built a catalogue that includes era-defining records such as “Tonga”, “La Familia”, “U x Me”, and “Princess”, while accumulating a devoted fanbase across the continent and beyond.
His latest project, Sexy Highlife, represents the next chapter in a career defined by evolution. Drawing inspiration from his time in New York and the city’s underground “Sexy Drill” movement, Joey B reimagines the warm rhythmic foundations of Ghanaian Highlife through the lens of contemporary bass-heavy production. The result is a bold and unconventional body of work that feels nostalgic, futuristic and unmistakably his own, further cementing his reputation as a cultural shapeshifter and one of Africa’s most distinctive creative voices.
First To Know
“I’ve always wanted to have a zouk/kompa record in my catalogue somewhere,” Joey B tells Apple Music, speaking on the direction of Sexy Highlife. “In the early 90s, Caribbean and French sounds were creeping into the Ghanaian music scene, which made my father play them at home. I’ve always loved that sound as a child, and here I am today trying it out.”
Speaking on being featured on Rap Life Africa, Joey B adds, “Being on the Rap Life Africa cover is a real honour. I’ve seen my favourite rappers on this cover, so being here myself hits different. I’m grateful to my fans, my team, and everyone who’s been riding with me. And to Apple Music, thank you for always showing up for African music.”
Press Play
Rap Life Africa serves as a companion to Apple Music’s flagship Hip-Hop playlist, Rap Life.