Nigerian Afrobeats sensation Fireboy DML has officially released his brand-new single, “IMALI,” accompanied by its sleek music video. The track sees the singer-songwriter team up with JAZZWRLD and Thukuthela for a cross-border collaboration connecting Nigeria’s vibrant music scene with Southern Africa’s evolving sounds.
Produced by JAZZWRLD, “IMALI” blends Fireboy DML’s signature melodic storytelling with the hypnotic, rhythmic textures of South Africa’s emerging 3-step genre.
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At its core, “IMALI” explores money, ambition, and the relentless hustle required to achieve success, capturing both the drive to build a better life and the sacrifices that come with it.
A celebration of African creativity
Speaking on the cross-continental record, Fireboy DML highlighted his admiration for the region’s musical influence.
“Southern Africa has an incredible musical energy, and I’ve always admired how its producers and artists continue to shape sounds that travel across the world,” said Fireboy DML. “Working with JAZZWRLD and Thukuthela on ‘IMALI’ was an organic creative experience, it’s different cultures meeting through music and creating something bigger than borders.”
Producer JAZZWRLD noted that the collaboration reflects music’s ability to transcend geography, while Thukuthela added that the track stands as a testament to how connected African music scenes have become.
Cinematic visuals and ‘ZUKO’ horizon
Released simultaneously with the audio track, the official music video brings the song’s themes to life in a cinematic visual landscape directed by Gabriel OBE. The video continues the visual language established in Fireboy’s previous work, such as “CLAAAT,” utilizing stark black-and-white photography punctuated by vivid red elements to build aesthetic contrast and tension.
The release of “IMALI” signals another chapter in Fireboy DML’s artistic evolution as he builds momentum toward his forthcoming project, ZUKO.
“IMALI” by Fireboy DML, JAZZWRLD, and Thukuthela is out now across all major digital streaming platforms, with the official music video available on YouTube.
