# Lagos producer Azzi on the Beat brings mara to debut album

- URL: https://talkfuse.com/story/the-weeks-best-new-tracks-and-the-act-you-need-to-know-acrobatic-lagos-producer-azzi-on-the-beat/
- Published: 2026-11-13T12:00:17+00:00
- Updated: 2026-11-13T12:32:23+00:00
- Original publisher: The Guardian (publisher lean: Left)
- Original article: https://www.theguardian.com/music/2026/nov/13/the-weeks-best-new-tracks-and-the-act-you-need-to-know-acrobatic-lagos-producer-azzi-on-the-beat
- Topics: Africa, Culture, Entertainment, Music, World

## Key points

- Azzi on the Beat’s debut album explores Lagos dance music mara.
- The 17 tracks blend varied sounds with high-speed percussion.
- The 22-year-old producer is also known for dancing and acrobatics on stage.

## Summary

Lagos producer Azzi on the Beat has released his debut album, *Mara Gram*, showcasing mara, a fast, sample-heavy dance style rooted in working-class neighbourhood parties and carnivals. The 22-year-old’s live performances combine beat-making with dancing and acrobatics, and the album highlights the sound’s range while maintaining its relentless pace.

Born Waris Rasheed, Azzi grew up in Bariga and trained as a traditional dancer before turning to production; his breakout track “Mr Barry” has drawn millions of streams. *Mara Gram*, released on 12 November, spans 17 tracks, with influences including 90s Euro-rave synths and South Asian-style chants. He is due to play Uganda’s Nyege Nyege festival from 19 to 22 November.

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Summarised by TalkFuse (https://talkfuse.com/). Quote the original publisher for the reporting and link this page for the summary and discussion.