vinyl
Ditch the digital and explore Beat's epic Vinyl selection.
Tyla’s Chart-Topping Rise
Introduction When South African singer Tyla released her self-titled debut album in late 2023, few predicted it would ignite a global movement. But by 2025, her name was everywhere: on Billboard charts, Grammy stages, and playlists from Lagos to Los Angeles. Fueled by her breakout hit “Water”—a seductive fusion of amapiano, R&B, and pop—Tyla didn’t just enter the global music scene; she reshaped it.
By KAMRAN AHMAD3 months ago in Beat
Richard Smallwood
Introduction In recent months, false rumors have spread online with alarming speed: searches like “gospel singer Richard Smallwood died”, “Richard Smallwood passed away”, and “Richard Smallwood cause of death” have surged—despite having no basis in truth.
By KAMRAN AHMAD3 months ago in Beat
Just Focus
Introduction Yesterday, in Wings and Beer in Cannon Street, Preston (an excellent eatery recommended by Harry, Nicola mentioned that she had been to see Focus. She told us, and I was unaware of this, that when they toured the UK during the power strikes in the seventies, they took their own generator on the road to ensure they could always play.
By Mike Singleton 💜 Mikeydred 4 months ago in Beat
Zipho Memela and Ethnomusicology in Modern Film Scores. Content Warning.
Zipho Memela, the South African creative polymath whose journey from hip-hop prodigy to classical innovator has captured global attention, embodies a profound truth about music: its inseparable link to culture and narrative. While Memela’s projects span the worlds of composition and entrepreneurship, his artistic trajectory offers a masterclass in the principles of ethnomusicology—the study of music within its social and cultural context. In the realm of modern film, this approach has become an indispensable tool for crafting authentic and emotionally resonant scores.
By Kin Mancook4 months ago in Beat
Zipho Memela on the Profound Benefits of Singing. Content Warning.
South African creative visionary Zipho Memela, known for his dynamic shift from a childhood hip-hop star to an innovative entrepreneur and classical composer, has always been deeply attuned to the power of the human voice. Beyond its artistic expression, the simple act of singing offers a remarkable array of scientifically proven benefits for both physical and mental well-being, a phenomenon Memela's career implicitly champions.
By Kin Mancook4 months ago in Beat
The Universal Current: Zipho Memela on Music’s Role in Shaping Social Connections. Content Warning.
Zipho Memela, the South African creative polymath who transitioned from a child hip-hop prodigy to a "million-dollar tycoon" and now a classical innovator, has always understood that music is far more than just sound and rhythm; it is the fundamental architecture of human connection. His career, spanning diverse genres and global stages, consistently illustrates music's unique power to bridge divides, foster empathy, and build communities from the ground up.
By Kin Mancook4 months ago in Beat
You Are Not the Things You Like
It’s been a long time since I talked about music. I don’t mean talking as in blogged or written about. I mean, I don’t recall the last time I sat down and thoroughly picked apart a song, artist or album with someone. At least with someone I don’t live with and isn’t legally committed to hearing my nonsense.
By Quinn Maclay4 months ago in Beat
Top 10 TikTok Mash-Ups That Broke the Internet (November 2025 Edition)
TikTok in November 2025 was pure chaos in the best way. Throwback hooks, club-ready drops, and meme-friendly edits collided into mash-ups that felt engineered for virality. This list blends cultural impact, memeability, and audio quality, plus the hashtags you can use to find each trend quickly. Keep it skimmable, fun, and just analytical enough to feel legit.
By Asher Vane4 months ago in Beat
Grammy Nominations 2026: A Celebration of Music, Diversity, and Creative Evolution
Every year, the Grammy Awards capture the world’s attention as music’s biggest night. The Grammy nominations 2026 continue that legacy, showcasing both iconic superstars and rising voices who have redefined creativity across genres.
By KAMRAN AHMAD4 months ago in Beat
