First Listen Fridays (23/10/26) – Mahalia, Michael Kiwanuka, and More New Music

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After a big week in music with the Mercury Prize (congrats to RAYE), it is time to highlight some of the best new music out this week. Some of these, like Michael Kiwanuka, are previous winners; others like Leah Cleaver and Duppy are ones to look out for in the future. Meanwhile, artists like Mahalia will hopefully get their flowers. Whatever the case, these performers and more are worth checking out, so let us get into the music.

Mahalia – the 5 stages of heartbreak

One of this country’s biggest R’n’B stars is back. As the title suggests, she has a lot to get off her chest. The melodic, mellow acoustic guitar kicks off proceedings before this singer’s soulful delivery is matched by the background choir. It details the stages of grieving a relationship that has run its course, with each part adding instruments (the energy of the percussion matches ‘I hate him, I hate him’). We get to see many different energies and sides to Mahalia’s performance, which are complemented to a tee by a variety of producers. Whether the melancholic sax or the bassy synths, the work of herself alongside GG, bAd entity, Lorenzo Taddebi, and Monro makes this a developing experience, instrumentally. Sadly for our lead, the ‘Luvergirl‘ era is over, but this artist continues to make music that grips the listener’s ears.

Buy the track here.

Leah Cleaver – UMA

This week saw the release of the 2nd EP from this Purple-Listed artist, and out of the new tracks, this was my pick. That whirring synth immediately has me hooked, before the singer comes in with a very direct vocal. Referencing her passion for that special someone and how it makes them feel, you can see the intensity and love Leah has for this person. Then comes the energy from the guitar, before the drums are matched by a peppier flow. The production work from Harve and Gabriel Gifford is used expertly to match the changing vibes and singing deliveries of its lead. A high-octane and certainly danceable song, that is one slice of what is a great EP.

Buy the track here.

Duppy – Sweet Dreams

Next month will see the debut album from respected grime MC Duppy come to town, and to celebrate, we also have a new single. The production has a nostalgic quality to it, which is ridden well, as he references his past and what he learnt during that time. Mixing guitar with drill influences in the drums, this feels like a fresh approach from an instrumental perspective, while still fitting the words and delivery. A short but sweet track, we get introspection, energy, and another look into what should be an exciting LP.

FLEUR ROUGE – Pretty Privilege

A bit of social commentary and good music is always my cup of tea, and FLEUR ROUGE provides that on this track. The bass drives this alt-pop instrumental forward while the singer gives a direct and purposeful performance. It fits the mold of the genre with catchy lyricism and tone, whilst delivering its critique of the expectation that women must remain youthful. This has remained an issue throughout history, but in an age of Ozempic and the manosphere, it is still important to highlight. Through this release, pop is once again proven as a genre that can be poignant.

Michael Kiwanuka – Steve’s Paradise

Michael Kiwanuka returns with album no. 5 today, and he still has the magic touch. ‘Steve’s Paradise‘ is the song we have chosen to highlight, with the piano and acoustic guitar mesmerising from the get-go. Then come the gorgeous synths and organ, with the production on this number truly stellar. Outside of some background ‘la’s’, we don’t hear many words till halfway through, but the wait is worth it. Those smooth and commanding tones are just as good throughout the record, but the message of letting one go and being ‘hollow and done’ is sad to hear. There are plenty of songs that showcase this man’s talents, but it is here that few words have a major impact.

Buy the track here.

Inayah – Reality Show

Fans of Inayah can celebrate today as she releases an expanded edition of ‘Therapy Wasn’t Enough‘. Alongside acoustic, acapella, and instrumental versions of previous tracks, comes this new song. Those lovely bass licks ease you in alongside our lead’s top-class vocals. A performance full of passion and words for their partner, this is a nice addition to this record from the Purple-Listed singer. Truly the cherry on top of this LP.

Buy the track here.

Konyikeh – Scar

Despite releasing an EP earlier this year, Konyikeh isn’t done with 2026 just yet. ‘Scar‘ leads you in with some sad piano, before this artist proves why they have a standout vocal. When that chorus hits, all you can say is wow, as those high notes just take your breath away. The lyrics match the poignancy on display in the singing department, as the violin adds to the atmospheric scene. This is a statement piece from an artist you should be tuned into.

Buy the track here.

Capo Lee FT Pa Salieu – What’s Wrong?

And closing us out today is a rapper who, for me, has never quite got the love he deserves. Teaming up with another top-tier artist in Pa Salieu, Capo Lee once again proves his skills on the mic. Mikkel Laiback and BOABOA’s production has an eerie but intriguing quality to it, which once again shows Capo’s ability to flow, whatever the beat. With plenty of introspection and punchy bars, this is a more personal showing that is matched by an erratic, yet impactful guest feature. Another creative and intriguing moment from an MC who continues to be as talented as ever.

Follow IndustryMe on Instagram, Threads, X, or YouTube. Press play on our First Listen Fridays playlist below or via YouTube Music to enjoy all our top picks. You can also check out previous editions here.

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