The Best Music From East Africa in October 2025

There must be something in the water in East Africa, because the music coming out of the region this October has artists showcasing full vulnerability. Whether focusing on heartbreak, spiritual reflection, or the weight of public grief, the sound from the East was one of raw emotion and powerful storytelling. From genre-bending duets to stripped-down solo ballads, the region’s soundscape this month has been deeply personal. 

This October, there are standout releases from Diamond Platnumz, Sheebah, Prince Indah, Shaffy, Alikiba, Siji, and more in OkayAfrica’s best East African music list.

Sheebah – “Wesibadde” (Uganda)

Ugandan pop queen Sheebah returns with “Wesibadde.” It’s been a fairly quiet year for one of Uganda’s biggest female artists, with only one other release, making “Wesibadde” a welcome reminder of her star power.

Shaffy – “Sèrela” (Rwanda/USA)

With his latest release, Rwandan-born, US-based artist Shaffy delivers more of his signature afro-zouk rhythms on the Element Eleeh-produced “Sèrela.” The sultry, danceable track quickly crossed the one million views mark on YouTube within two weeks of its release.

Diamond Platnumz – “Nani” (Tanzania)

Diamond Platnumz is proving that longevity doesn't mean slowing down. After his recent global hit with Ciara, the Tanzanian superstar has released three new songs in October, including the emotionally resonant “Nani.” He also dropped “Msumari,” a heartfelt song for lovers, and “Sasampa,” an amapiano collaboration with Focalistic, Uncool, Silas Africa, and Xduppy. The wave of releases shows that even with a career spanning a decade, Diamond remains one of East Africa’s most prolific and consistent hitmakers.

SIJI. – “Komsa” (Burundi)

Burundian artist SIJI. brings smooth, slow-burning energy to the dance floor with “Komsa,” a sensual zouk track that leans into romance and rhythm. 

Toxic Lyrikali – “Euphoria” (Kenya)

Kenyan rapper Toxic Lyrikali taps into a darker, moodier sound with “Euphoria.” In his OkayAfrica profile, the rapper shared that the song was “a reminder to rise above all that energy, stay focused on your own path, and remember that we came from nothing to something.” With introspective lyricism, the track offers a different sound for the Kayole rapper. 

Phil Emon – “Delicious” ft. Nel Ngabo (Rwanda)

Phil Emon teams up with fellow Rwandan artist Nel Ngabo for “Delicious,” a flirty afro-pop track that oozes charm and chemistry. Emon’s raspy voice and guitar skills are on full display

Alikiba – “Sella” (Tanzania)

Tanzanian legend Alikiba returns with “Sella,” a smooth and emotionally charged bongo flava ballad in which he pours his heart out to a lover who has betrayed his trust. The song tells the story of a woman who once promised loyalty, devotion, and honesty but ultimately chooses to cheat, leaving Alikiba heartbroken and disillusioned. 

Prince Indah – “TRIBUTE TO RT. HON RAILA ODINGA” (Kenya)

Prince Indah sets the tone for a wave of musical tributes mourning the passing of Kenyan opposition leader Raila Odinga with his powerful ballad “Tribute to Rt. Hon Raila Odinga.” His song is joined by a chorus of other artists, including Bahati, Elisha Toto, Sammy Dee & The Cluster, Rayvanny, Dogo Charlie, and Vinny Flava, all of whom released songs this month to commemorate the iconic leader. While the songs vary in style and production, they collectively reflect a country grieving through melody and memory.