Solidstar drops new single, "Depression" after long hiats

Solidstar returns to the music scene with a new single titled Depression.

The Nigerian singer was on a long hiatus and his return warmed the hearts of many.

Recently, Solid opened up about his battle with depression following his struggle with drugs.

Solidstar

However, he is back on his feet and hopes his new single helps people with mental health issues.

Taking to Instagram, he teased the new song and captioned it with a lengthy note, which reads:

"Today marks a milestone in my journey as an artist. My latest single, “Depression,” is now available on all platforms. This song is more than just music; it’s a reflection of my personal struggles with mental health and a reminder that no one should suffer in silence."

"I want to extend my deepest gratitude to each and every one of you who has supported me on this journey. Your love and encouragement mean the world to me, and I am endlessly grateful for your unwavering support.
In honor of the release of “Depression,” I am using my platform to raise awareness about mental health. It’s time to break the stigma and start the conversation."

"Throughout the week, I’ll be sharing information on mental health awareness, and I’ll also be donating to support individuals in Yaba who are in need of assistance."

"Additionally, I will make myself available to speak at any event or program on mental health. Let’s continue raising in other to support one another on our journey towards healing. Together, let’s spread love, understanding, and hope."

Rema splurges over 200 million in building the biggest music institute

 Rema is giving back to not only his community but Africa at large.

The Nigerian musician, real name Divine Ikubor, opened up about an ongoing project in which he's invested 200 million.

The Calm Down crooner reveals that he is building the largest music school in the African continent.

According to reports, the singer named the school after him, Rema Music Institute.

Rema is building the biggest music institute in Africa

African Hub wrote, "23-year-old Nigerian Music Artist Rema is on a journey of building the biggest Music School In Africa. The young singer has already invested over 200plus Million on a project to promote Music in Africa."

"The school which will be named “Rema Music Institute” will be the biggest Music School in Nigeria and Africa and the tuition will be free in to help those who are interested in doing Music."

23-year-old Nigerian Music Artist Rema is on a journey of building the biggest Music School In Africa.

The young singer has already invested over 200plus Million on a project to promote Music in Africa.

The school which will be named “Rema Music Institute” will be the biggest… pic.twitter.com/6b2JzvbsrF

— African Hub (@AfricanHub_) March 22, 2024

Portable drops diss track against Nigerian cross-dresser Bobrisky

Portable has grown to become a force to be reckoned with in the music industry despite being a cause-trouble.

Social media was and is still being strategically utilized by the music artist, hence it's taken his career across the borders of Nigeria.

The week started with a burst of drama on social media between the Zazu crooner and Nigerian cross-dresser, Bobrisky.

The men hurled insults against each other in voice notes sent and the singer shared the screen record on his Instagram account.

Portable further dropped another post where he dissed the controversial socialite with a song.

Listen below:

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Elizabeth Joyce (@portablebaeby)

Chike dissociates his albums from Afrobeats

 Chike causes a stir after dissociating his album from the hottest African musical genre, Afrobeats.

The Nigerian musician has released two albums since he came into the limelight - Boo of The Booless and The Brothers Keeper.

His debut album did massive streams and it was well received and appraised by Nigerians.

Chike speaks about his three albums' genre

While preparing for the release of his third studio album titled Son of Chike, he took to Twitter to set the record straight about the genre of his projects.

The singer said the three albums do not belong to Afrobeats genre.

#BooOfTheBooless🌹 is not an Afrobeats album. #TheBrothersKeeper🕊 is not an Afrobeats album.

My third studio album #SonOfChike☀ is not an Afrobeats album.

When you hear it, you will know!

— Chiké (@Officialchike) March 16, 2024

This claim sparked controversy on his timelines, as some people refused to agree with him.

"Well some songs are pure r&b, some are highlife, some others are afrobeats mixed with pop," a Twitter user wrote.

"Jokes aside no, he's right, I listened to the both albums till the very moment and for once none of it sounds afrobeats. I think many people have difficulty identifying which is afrobeats and which is not," another wrote.

"At least define your sound then. If it's not Afrobeats. Don't just come out and say something for the sake of it," another wrote.

This leaves us with the question, What genre does these album belong to?

“My voice is incredibly distinct, it's in your face,” - Simi’s letter to trolls

Simisola Bolatito Kosoko, famously known as Simi fumes out against Trolls and critics who have been attacking her over her voice and style of music.

The Nigerian star fired back after a Twitter user wrote, "Girl switch it up a bit… change your sound."

“Your hubby changes his sound and it is amazing to see. Do the same, you are too good to be doing basic shit.”

The Joromi crooner replied with a thread of tweets, as she exuded anger and the user and other critics.

“Tell me the last say… 10 songs I have put out and let us dissect. Which ones sound the same? Then tell me how your faves are doing it different/better than me,” she wrote.

“Or perhaps u want me to change my genre? Or I should use more lamba? Or is it my voice? It is too soft or sweet or sharp for you? I should swallow balloon for diversity? We are not fighting. I honestly want your feedback. Direct me. Help me Zeebaby.”

Nigerian singer Simi

In another post, Simi bragged about her voice being distinct and further expressed herself in what seems like a lengthy letter to critics and trolls.

"I know some of you honestly struggle and don't know why, so let me help you. My voice is so, so incredibly distinct. It's in your face. It's beautiful and sweet and soft, but it can be piercing and in your face. It doesn't melt and get lost in a beat like most voices do."

"So regardless of what style or tempo of music I'm singing on, the first thing you'll notice about my song is my voice. Not the beat. This is what the majority of people love the most about me - the piercing nature of my voice. So they love everything I sing on. Some people love my songs more than my voice, because let's face it, I'm a fantastic songwriter...but for them, my voice is too piercing sometimes and gets in the way. For some, because of how my voice stands out, it sounds like they're hearing the same kind of music - even when they're listening to me sing 5 diff genres back to back." 

"That's why my features work for many of you (you probably didn't even know that). The balance of someone else's voice can distract you and then when you hear my voice again, you have space to love it. I know my voice. It is my super power, but that power has its consequence. I accept it."

"I can NOT change my voice. Even if I could, I do not want to. This is why I insist that you take what you can, when you can and keep it moving - but do not insult me or all the hard work I do. Stop that shit! I'm too good at what I do for these ignorant takes. So get your shit together and do better."

Simi concluded her note with an expression of love to her fans.

"I love love love my fans. I cater to them first. When everyone else dials in for the shit they like, I'm grateful for them too. But please don't be obtuse and insult me."

7 women who made significant contributions to the Nigerian music industry

The Nigerian music industry has been greatly influenced and shaped by numerous talented women across various genres. These women, among many others, have made indelible contributions to the Nigerian music industry, showcasing the talent, diversity, and vibrancy of Nigerian music to the world.

Epoh Music recognises the contribution of the women and we will be giving them their flowers on this special day which is International Women's Day.

Here's a list of the women whose contributions can never be erased from history.

1. Tiwa Savage: Tiwa Savage is one of the most prominent female artists in Nigeria and Africa as a whole. She has achieved international recognition for her captivating voice, electrifying performances, and hit songs. Tiwa Savage has collaborated with both local and international artists, elevating the profile of Nigerian music on the global stage.

2. Yemi Alade: Yemi Alade, also known as "Mama Africa," is another influential figure in Nigerian music. She gained widespread fame with her hit single "Johnny" and has since become known for her powerful vocals, energetic stage presence, and Afro-pop sound. Yemi Alade has toured extensively and has won several awards for her contributions to the music industry.

Yemi Alade

3. Niniola: Niniola is celebrated for her unique blend of Afro-house, Afrobeat, and R&B music. She gained recognition with her hit singles "Maradona" and "Sicker" and has continued to push boundaries with her distinctive sound and style. Niniola's music has earned her critical acclaim and a dedicated fan base both in Nigeria and internationally.

4. Simi: Simi is known for her soulful voice, heartfelt lyrics, and captivating performances. She has carved a niche for herself in the Nigerian music industry with her blend of Afropop, R&B, and highlife music. Simi's versatility as an artist and her ability to connect with audiences have made her one of the most beloved female artists in Nigeria.

5. Asa: Asa is renowned for her soulful voice, thought-provoking lyrics, and timeless music. Although she was born in France, Asa spent much of her childhood in Nigeria and has become an integral part of the Nigerian music scene. Her albums, including "Asa" and "Beautiful Imperfection," have received widespread acclaim, earning her a dedicated fan base both at home and abroad.

6. Teni: Teni, also known as Teni the Entertainer, has quickly risen to prominence with her infectious personality and catchy songs. She burst onto the scene with hits like "Fargin" and "Case" and has since become known for her unique style and playful lyrics. Teni's rise to stardom has cemented her status as one of the top female artists in Nigeria.

7. Ayra Starr: Ayra Starr is known for her distinctive sound, which blends elements of Afrobeats, R&B, and soul. music has resonated particularly well with younger audiences, earning her a dedicated fan base among Gen Z listeners. Ayra flags Nigeria high as she's bagged international recognition.