Fireboy DML is continuing to push beyond the familiar Afrobeats formula as he builds anticipation for his upcoming fifth studio album, “ZUKO!”
One of the clearest signs of that musical evolution is “IMALI,” his collaboration with Lesotho-born producer JAZZWRLD and South African artist Thukuthela.
Rather than staying entirely within the sound that has defined much of his career, Fireboy steps into South Africa’s emerging 3-Step Afro House movement, placing his melodic vocals over a more dance-driven production. The collaboration was released through YBNL Nation and EMPIRE.
“IMALI” is an isiZulu word meaning money, and the song explores themes around ambition, success and the pursuit of a better life. JAZZWRLD handles the production, bringing the South African rhythmic influence to a record that still leaves room for Fireboy’s recognizable vocal style.
The collaboration is also notable because JAZZWRLD and Thukuthela are already closely connected to South Africa’s growing 3-Step and Afro House scene. Their involvement gives Fireboy an opportunity to engage with the sound through artists who are already part of its development rather than simply borrowing the style from a distance.
For Fireboy, “IMALI” follows another international experiment, “CLAAT!” with Jamaican dancehall artist Masicka. The two songs point to an artist increasingly willing to explore sounds outside traditional Afrobeats and connect with musicians from different parts of the African and Caribbean music scenes.
That experimentation comes at an important point in Fireboy’s career.
His fifth studio album, “ZUKO!”, is scheduled to arrive on October 16, 2026, following his 2024 album Adedamola. The upcoming project is expected to contain 13 tracks, with “CLAAT!” and “IMALI” serving as lead singles.
The timing makes “IMALI” more than another collaboration. It gives listeners an indication of the broader musical direction Fireboy is exploring before the album arrives.
His move into South Africa’s 3-Step space also reflects the increasingly fluid relationship between Afrobeats and other African sounds. Nigerian artists are continuing to collaborate across borders, while South African dance styles are finding new audiences beyond the country.
With “ZUKO!” approaching, Fireboy appears to be using this period to show listeners that his next chapter will not be limited to one sound.
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