Kenyan Afro-pop singer Bensoul has released a new single, "Mariwana", featuring his long-time collaborator Ywaya Tajiri. The track came out on October 7 with an official lyric video.

The sound

Despite the title, "Mariwana" is a love song. It opens with an acoustic guitar before building into a bass-heavy groove, and moves between English and Swahili. The song is about desire and closeness, and Bensoul has said it is meant as an affirmation for women who love themselves. Production is credited to MP Jazbeatz.

Part of a bigger project

"Mariwana" is the fourth single from Bensoul's upcoming project, #Flight420. It was released on his own imprint, Lion of Sudah, with distribution by Africori.

The 420 theme is familiar territory. Bensoul named his first solo album The Lion of Sudah and released it on April 20, a date associated with cannabis culture, and has spoken publicly in support of legalising marijuana in Kenya, where it remains illegal.

A proven partnership

This is not the first time the two artists have worked together. Ywaya Tajiri co-wrote "Send It" and "Kesha" on Bensoul's album The Party & The After Party. On "Mariwana" he steps forward as a featured artist.

Bensoul first came to national attention as part of the Sol Generation label founded by Sauti Sol, and has since become one of Kenya's most consistent R&B and Afro-pop voices. With #Flight420 still unfolding, "Mariwana" is the latest sign of a busy season for him.

The lyric video is available on Bensoul's YouTube channel, and the song is on major streaming platforms.