Track of the Day: Debra Can – HAPPY (2026)

Inspired by the vibrant atmosphere of her hometown, Lagos, Nigerian singer-songwriter Debra Can has an Afrobeat sound made for dancing. Just as she gets you dancing, she also connects with listeners on a deeper level, offering solace, acceptance, understanding, and a friendly hand to tackle life in all its grit and glory. Can shares: “My music. My story through my songs. I share my journey, hopes, and dreams. My music is a testament to my resilience, passion and dedication to my craft. I’m excited to connect…. through my music and inspire positivity in your life.” This is our first dance with the Afrobeat and Afropop artist, so join us as we turn up the volume on ‘HAPPY’.

Following her 2025 single ‘Energy’, ‘HAPPY’ is Can’s first stomp into the new year. Produced by Jay Pizzel, with mixing by Cheqwas, ‘HAPPY’ is exactly what it says on the tin: a sonic bundle of energetic happiness. Bright percussion keeps a Nigerian flavour beating throughout the melody, while synths shimmer and slide across with cheerful charm. Yet, while the tune can have you dancing along, particularly the brass section breaking in, it is the vocals that truly captured my attention and heart.

Retaining the strong African vibe, Can’s vocals dance across – yes, things are all dancing in this single. Richness and warmth ooze from her dulcet tones. Comfortable and fun, her voice embraces the core of happiness, while a choir seems to whisper in the back. Easy and groovy with a laid-back sentiment, even if it isn’t exactly a laid-back attitude.

Bringing an almost palpable sense of vivid and vibrant joy, ‘HAPPY’ can have your soul soaring, your heart beating fast, your body shaking, and slaps a massive smile on your face with Afropop enthusiasm. One complaint I have about ‘HAPPY’ is that it’s far too short. Sitting at only two minutes and forty seconds, you only start getting into the groove before the song suddenly ends. I am eager to listen to more of Debra Can’s music, so maybe if I just leave Spotify to stream all her songs, I’ll find a beat that I can keep flowing for some time. Highly recommended!!!

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Find out more about Debra Can on her Facebook, X, Instagram, TikTok, YouTube, Soundcloud and Spotify.

This artist was discovered via Musosoup #sustainablecurator

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