Tiwa Savage: 49-99

Nigeria-born Tiwa Savage offers a poignant single about the plight of citizens from her home country in “49-99.” The title references Fela Kuti’s 1978 song “Shuffering and Shmiling,” which addresses the lack of resources in underserved communities—especially with the line “49 sitting, 99 standing” about riding the bus. In contrast, Savage’s tune is about coming up, garnering the notoriety and means to make change for …

M83: Temple Of Sorrow

To accompany the new song “Temple of Sorrow,” by M83 (aka French musician Anthony Gonzalez), a nine-minute film—part one of three, written and directed by Bertrand Mandico—takes viewers along the Nirvana Queen’s wild and mystical quest for autonomy. Mandico’s three-part story Extazus is inspired by music from Gonzalez’s upcoming instrumental album DSVII (set for release 20 September) and certainly reflects some of his inspirations: ’80s-era soundtracks from …

Francis and the Lights feat. Bon Iver and Kanye West: Take Me To The Light

In advance of their album out later this year, Francis and the Lights have released “Take Me To The Light.” Lead singer Francis Startlite’s croon lifts up the synth-pop tune, but guest vocals from frequent collaborators Bon Iver and Kanye West punctuate its power. Starlite’s become known for his producing efforts with the likes of West, Chance the Rapper and more. Here, production gets support …