By Seli Baisie
Ghanaian rapper and one of Africa’s finest lyricists, M.anifest, has released his highly anticipated sixth studio album, New Road and Guava Trees, today, March 13, 2025.
The project marks his first major-label collaboration with Mass Appeal Records, the American imprint co-founded by rap icon Nas and Peter Bittenbender.
A Landmark Release for M.anifest
Following the success of his lead singles Puff Puff and Hang My Boots featuring King Promise, off the album, M.anifest has unveiled a 14-track album that blends rich African rhythms with global influences.
The album features an impressive lineup of collaborators, including South African rapper A-Reece, Cameroonian singer T’neeya, American rapper Vic Daggs II, Ghanaian stars King Promise and Arathejay, as well as Flea from the Red Hot Chili Peppers.
M.anifest’s ‘New Road and Guava Trees’ is more than just an album—it’s a deeply personal journey of growth, resilience, and artistic evolution. Reflecting on two years of patience and divine timing, the rapper describes the project as a testament to overcoming challenges and staying true to his vision. He hopes the album offers listeners joy, reflection, and inspiration as they navigate their own paths.
The God MC shared an emotional message with his fans on social media:
“On the eve of a new birth, I exhale. At midnight, New Road and Guava Trees will be out in the world. My inner child is grinning from ear to ear. I am proud of the work we’ve done. Two years of lessons in patience and divine timing. Inspiration remains a very loyal friend.”
“The space in between making music and releasing it is filled with opportunities and challenges constantly wrestling with each other. Being deaf to the chatter and resolute amidst the chaos is a victory in itself. Wherever you are, I pray these creations give you the respite, joy, and provocation you need to embrace and embark on the New Road the universe has paved for you.”
Star-Studded Production and Creative Team
The album’s production is helmed by a diverse team of producers, including Budo, GuiltyBeatz, MikeMillzOnEm, Drvmroll, Kensaye, and Blinky Bill. Executive production credits go to M.anifest (Kwame Tsikata), Joshua “Budo” Karp, and Fui Tsikata, ensuring a refined sonic experience.
The album’s creative direction and artwork were curated by Peppen Co., with cover photography by Onasis & Apag Studios, adding a visual identity to M.anifest’s storytelling.
This is the tracklist for New Road and Guava Trees;
- Time Catch
- Eye Red
- Bad Man (ft. Vic Daggs II)
- Wine and Blues (ft. AratheJay)
- Puff Puff (ft. The Cavemen. & Flea)
- Gye Nyame and Vibes
- Safe Place (ft. Tobi & T’neeya)
- My God (ft. Lee Lewis)
- Ease My Mind (ft. Xperience)
- Spirit Riddim (ft. Bien & Darkovibes)
- FTYD (ft. A-Reece)
- Highlands
- Hang My Boots (ft. King Promise)
- Second Hand
M.anifest’s Legacy and Evolution
Since his debut album Manifestations in 2007, M.anifest has steadily carved a space for himself in the African music industry. With previous albums like Manifestations (2007), The Birds and the Beats, Immigrant Chronicles: Coming to America (2011), Nowhere Cool (2016), and Madina to the Universe (2021), he has gained a reputation as one of Africa’s finest lyricists, blending traditional sounds with contemporary hip-hop.
With New Road and Guava Trees, M.anifest embarks on a new chapter, backed by one of hip-hop’s most respected labels.
Fans can expect a compelling fusion of introspective storytelling, African heritage, and global musicality, making this album one of the most significant releases in African hip-hop this year.
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