Tems to headline historic FIFA Club World Cup final performance

Tems set to shine at  FIFA Club World Cup 2025

Nigerian superstar Tems is set to take center stage at the inaugural FIFA Club World Cup final halftime show, marking a major milestone for both global football and African music. 

The event, scheduled for July 13 at MetLife Stadium in New Jersey, will also feature international stars Doja Cat and J Balvin, but for many Nigerian fans, all eyes will be on Tems.

The Grammy-winning singer, known for her soulful voice and genre-blending sound, will perform as part of a groundbreaking initiative by FIFA and Global Citizen. 

Curated by Coldplay frontman Chris Martin, the show aims to support the FIFA Global Citizen Education Fund, which seeks to raise $100 million to improve access to education worldwide.

Tems expressed her excitement and pride in being part of this historic moment. 

“We’re going to bring the world together for a beautiful moment, to celebrate football, feel the unity that music brings, and improve the lives of millions of children through the FIFA Global Citizen Education Fund,” she said. “I can’t wait.”

The 2025 Club World Cup will be the first of its kind in this expanded format, hosting 32 teams across 12 venues in the United States. Powerhouses like Real Madrid, Chelsea, Bayern Munich, and Paris Saint-Germain will compete, with Manchester City entering as the reigning champions.

FIFA President Gianni Infantino hailed the halftime show as a moment where “football and music unite the world,” promising a performance that will leave a lasting legacy, not just on the pitch, but in lives around the globe.

5 Afrobeats hits rocking the charts (Jan - May 2025)

Nigerian songs that dominated early 2025

1. "Baby (Is it a Crime)" –  Rema kicked off the year with "Baby (Is it a Crime)," a smooth blend of Afrobeats and contemporary R&B that underscores his evolution as an artist. Its catchy hooks and heartfelt lyrics resonated deeply, quickly climbing both Nigerian and international charts. 

 2. "Laho" – "Laho" became an instant anthem upon its March release. Shallipopi's unique fusion of Benin City street vibes with infectious Afrobeats rhythms propelled the track to remarkable heights, making it a staple in clubs and playlists globally. 

 3. "Arike" – Emerging artist Kunmie captivated listeners with "Arike," showcasing soulful vocals over lush, rhythmic production. The song's relatable narrative of love and devotion struck a chord, earning it heavy rotation on radio and streaming platforms. 

 4. "Kai!" – Veteran stars Olamide and Wizkid teamed up for "Kai!," delivering a high-energy collaboration that celebrates the vibrant nightlife of Lagos. The track quickly ascended charts and proved their lasting influence on the Afrobeats scene. 

 5. "With You" – Davido and Omah Lay united their dynamic styles in "With You," a compelling track marked by melodic synergy and emotive lyrics. Its success underscored both artists' prominence and their knack for crafting hits that resonate across diverse audiences. 

These five tracks have set the pace for Afrobeats in 2025, further cementing the genre's global appeal and cultural significance.q3hjew

Burna Boy, Tems, and Ayra Starr shine at Met Gala 2025

Nigerian music stars at Met Gala 2025

Nigerian music stars were fully represented at the Met Gala 2025.

The event was held on May 5 at New York City’s Metropolitan Museum of Art, where stars made a significant impact, aligning with the event’s theme, “Superfine: Tailoring Black Style.”

This theme celebrated Black dandyism and the art of tailoring within Black culture, encouraging attendees to interpret menswear-inspired fashion through a personal and cultural lens.

Burna Boy, Tems, and Ayra Starr rocked the red carpet with their stylish outfits which sparked a stir on social media.

Check the outfits out below:

TEMS

BURNA BOY

AYRA STARR

Full list of winners at Headies Awards 2025

Mohbad bags two win at Headies Awards 2025

The 17th edition of The Headies Awards brought stars, style, and celebration to Lagos on April 27, 2025. 

Held at the Landmark Events Centre, the ceremony showcased the best of Nigeria’s music scene, honouring artists who have shaped the sound of the past year.

Hosted by popular Nollywood actress Nancy Isime, the event was filled with high-energy performances, moving tributes, and exciting award moments. 

It was a night where talent and creativity were on full display, cementing the importance of The Headies as a key cultural moment in the Nigerian entertainment industry.

One of the biggest highlights of the evening was Chike's Egwu, which took home two major awards — Viewers' Choice Award and Best Music Video. The late Mohbad, who was featured on Egwu, was also honoured with the Best Street-Hop Artiste award for his solo hit Ask About Me, giving fans an emotional moment of remembrance.

Superstar Rema continued his winning streak, claiming the coveted Album of the Year award for his project Heis. His impact was felt across the night, reinforcing his standing as one of Afrobeats' brightest stars.

Throughout the show, both established names and rising talents were celebrated. Odumodublvck secured the prestigious Next Rated title, while newcomer Qing Madi earned Songwriter of the Year honours. Emerging star Zerrydl was named Rookie of the Year, signalling a promising future for the next generation.

In addition to the music awards, The Headies also recognized individuals who have made significant contributions to the entertainment industry and humanitarian causes, ensuring the night celebrated excellence both on and off the stage.

The full list of winners is as follows:

• Best Recording of the Year: Tems – Burning

• Producer of the Year: London – Ozeba

• Next Rated: Odumodublvck

• Afrobeats Album of the Year: Rema – Heis

• Songwriter of the Year: Qing Madi – Vision

• Rookie of the Year: Zerrydl

• Best Rap Single: Shallipopi feat. Odumodublvck – Cast

• Best Vocal Performance (Female): Liya – I'm Done

• Music Video of the Year: Director Pink – Egwu

• Best Street-Hop Artiste: Mohbad – Ask About Me

• Afrobeats Single of the Year: Flavour – Big Baller

• Viewers’ Choice Award: Chike feat. Mohbad – Egwu

• Digital Artiste of the Year: Davido

• Song of the Year: Asake – Lonely at the Top

• Best Vocal Performance (Male): Lojay – Billions

• Best Movie Soundtrack: A Tribe Called Judah

Special Awards:

• Special Recognition: Babajide Sanwo-Olu, Alex Okosi, Amaju Pinnick, KCee

• Humanitarian Awards: Temitola Adekunle Johnson, Mitchell Mukoro

Regional Awards:

• Best East African Artiste: Juma Jux (Tanzania)

• Best Central African Artiste: Innoss'B (DRC)

Ice Prince credits MI Abaga for shaping his rap career: “He taught me well”

Ice Prince 

Nigerian rap sensation Ice Prince has opened up about the strong influence MI Abaga had on his journey into hip-hop, revealing that the veteran rapper played a major role in shaping his craft.

Speaking during an interview with content creator Isbaeu on Curiosity Made Me Ask, Ice Prince didn’t hold back in giving MI his flowers, calling him both a mentor and a big brother. 

He reflected on the early days of his career, emphasizing that the knowledge and discipline he gained under MI’s guidance became the foundation for his lyrical abilities.

“I can rap on any beat with any rapper, and I will still stand out. I’m not going to have a wack verse on a song,” he said with confidence. 

“I am not saying other rappers cannot rap, but it cannot be said that I’m wack. I was brought up by the best, shout out to MI Abaga.”

Having spent years working closely with the Crowd Mentality rapper, Ice Prince made it clear that his growth didn’t happen overnight but was built on consistent learning and mentorship.

“I rapped with him for years. He is my big brother, and he taught me well,” he added.