“Gbagbe e”: a title that pays homage to the tribal language of the Yoruba People, a sentiment that embraces the simple joys of being able to let go. Infusing classic House Music formulas with an insatiable Afrobeat-inspired production, the beginning of &friends’ brand new single encourages us to do just that. Filled with hypnotising verses of lyrical ecstasy, the track builds to an all-encompassing climax — with a percussion of drums allowing us to forget our troubles and sway in time with the track’s incessant groove.

When speaking on the inspiration behind his music, &friends – the musical brainchild of New York-based musician Sean Thomas – says, “I’m passionate about being able to help uplift artists that have exceptional stories but are unheard, amplifying them from the background.”

Drawing inspiration from creators of the African Diaspora, &friends positions himself as a multifaceted artist who can transcend genres, communities and backgrounds. As such, &friends continues to amplify the voices of every point in the world — pledging 10% of the proceeds earned by his releases towards the Uganda-based charitable foundation, Masaka Kids Africana. Despite “Gbagbe e” marking &friends’ inaugural single, it is clear that Sean Thomas’ vision spans far beyond music — &friends is more than just a moniker, it has become a way of life.

To stream the new track now, head below…