Global Icons Buju Banton, Stephen Marley, Flavour, Oskido, and More Join Forces for ‘One Drum’ EP
The ‘One Drum’ musical project is a tribute to the enduring cultural connections between Africa and its diaspora, honoring the rhythms, traditions, and shared history that have traveled across continents.
Bringing together a mix of global talent from reggae legends, Afrobeat superstars, and emerging voices in Afrohouse and Amapiano, the EP features renowned artists like Stephen Marley, Buju Banton, Flavour, The Scorpion Kings, and more. The production is led by South African music pioneer Oskido and multi-Grammy award-winning producer Gordon “The Commissioner” Williams.
The much-anticipated ‘One Drum’ EP has officially been released, showcasing an exciting fusion of Afrobeats, reggae, and Amapiano that celebrates the rich musical heritage of Africa and its diaspora. Following the success of two lead singles—’AfroWave’ by South Africa’s Scorpion Kings and ‘Let’s Dance’ by Nigerian star Flavour—the EP is set to captivate audiences with its diverse and innovative tracks.
Among the standout tracks is ‘Stop Stressin’, a compelling collaboration between reggae icons Stephen Marley and Buju Banton. The track seamlessly blends Afrobeat and reggae, delivering a powerful message of resilience and hope. Produced by Gordon Williams, the song features soul-stirring lyrics, a driving bassline, and rhythmic beats, making ‘Stop Stressin’ a signature hit on the EP.
Adding to the EP’s appeal is Sofiya Nzau’s ‘Besa’, a track destined to dominate dancefloors worldwide. ‘Besa’ is presented in two vibrant versions: an Afrohouse mix filled with rich African rhythms, and an electrifying Amapiano version that turns the song into a club anthem. Sung in Kikuyu, Sofiya’s commanding presence and versatile vocals make ‘Besa’ a standout on the EP, showcasing her global appeal.
Speaking on the inspiration behind the song, Sofiya Nzau said, “The energy in ‘Besa’ is all about freedom, joy, and the pulse of Africa. I wanted the song to reflect our essence while making people move.”
Other notable tracks include the spiritually charged ‘Coming Home,’ featuring the late Joseph “Mercar” Marley alongside his brothers Zion Marley and South African isicathamiya group Thee Legacy. This soulful ballad calls on the African diaspora to reconnect with their roots, delivering a heartfelt message of belonging and heritage.
The ‘One Drum’ EP is more than just a collection of songs; it’s a celebration of cultural unity and a shared musical legacy. With remarkable collaborations spanning Africa, the Caribbean, and beyond, the EP stands as a testament to the power of music in bringing people together across borders.
