Wizkid’s son Boluwatife Balogun launches music career with debut EP ‘Champion’s Arrival’

Bolu

Boluwatife Balogun, the 14-year-old son of Afrobeats superstar Wizkid, has officially stepped into the music spotlight under his stage name, Champz. 

On Tuesday, 11 November 2025, the young talent released his first project, a five-track EP titled Champion’s Arrival, instantly sparking excitement online.

Champz confirmed the release on his social media.

“11/11: The Champion has arrived. My debut EP ‘Champion’s Arrival’ Out Now on all streaming platforms!”

Unlike his father’s signature Afropop sound, Champz’s music leans heavily into Rap, Afroswing, and Trap, highlighting his own unique style. 

Early teasers of his tracks, which circulated weeks prior to the release, showcased his impressive lyrical flow and polished delivery, remarkable for someone of his age.

Meanwhile, keep streaming your favourite Nigerian songs on epoh.ng

Burna Boy, Davido, and Ayra Starr shine with 2026 Grammy nominations

Nigerian music continues its global dominance as several of the country’s stars earned nominations for the 2026 Grammy Awards, with Afrobeats once again taking center stage.

The Recording Academy unveiled the full list of nominees for the 68th Annual Grammy Awards on November 7, 2025, covering music released between September 16, 2024, and August 31, 2025. The ceremony will take place on February 1, 2026, at the Crypto.com Arena in Los Angeles, airing on CBS and streaming on Paramount+.

In the Best African Music Performance category, Nigeria maintains a strong presence with Burna Boy earning a nomination for “Love”, Davido and Omah Lay recognized for “With You”, and Ayra Starr alongside Wizkid for “Gimme Dat.” Other nominees in the category include “Hope & Love” by Eddy Kenzo and Mehran Matin, and “Push 2 Start” by South African star Tyla.

Burna Boy, one of Nigeria’s most decorated global artists, also bagged a nomination in the Best Global Music Album category for his project “No Sign of Weakness.” He faces competition from Youssou N’Dour (“Eclairer le monde: Light the World”), Shakti (“Mind Explosion (50th Anniversary Tour Live)”), Anoushka Shankar featuring Alam Khan and Sarathy Korwar (“Chapter III: We Return To Light”), Caetano Veloso and Maria Bethânia (“Caetano e Bethânia Ao Vivo”), and Siddhant Bhatia (“Sounds Of Kumbha”).

The Best Global Music Performance category, however, does not feature any Nigerian artists this year. Nominees include Bad Bunny for “EoO”, Ciro Hurtado for “Cantando en el Camino”, Angélique Kidjo for “Jerusalema”, Yeisy Rojas for “Inmigrante Y Que?”, Shakti for “Shrini’s Dream (Live)”, and Anoushka Shankar for “Daybreak.”

This year marks Burna Boy’s seventh consecutive Grammy nomination, a streak that began in 2020 and reinforces his consistency on the global music scene. Davido now holds five career nominations, while Wizkid has accumulated six with this latest recognition.

Although artists such as Rema, Seyi Vibez, Bnxn, Shallipopi, Asake, and Moliy submitted their projects for consideration, they did not make the final cut. Still, the strong showing by Nigerian acts in multiple categories reflects Afrobeats’ unstoppable rise and continued influence in shaping the sound of modern global music.

Burna Boy admits he’s confused after leaving Christianity for Islam

Global music star Burna Boy has opened up about his ongoing search for spiritual clarity after revealing that he converted from Christianity to Islam.

In a candid conversation with streamer Plaqueboymax, the Grammy-winning artist admitted that his journey through faith has left him with more questions than answers.

"I grew up as a Christian, but then I converted to Islam and all types. It’s like I’ve studied it all. I’m still out here trying to find what is really going on," Burna Boy said.

Raised in a Christian home in Nigeria, the Last Last hitmaker explained that his early religious beliefs were inherited from his family rather than discovered on his own.

“That’s what your parents believe in. That’s what you are born into,” he shared.

However, after embracing Islam in search of a deeper understanding, Burna confessed that his research only brought more confusion. 

“The more I researched, the more confused I got,” he said.

The star went on to reflect on his current thoughts about organized religion, calling it a “controlled mechanism.” 

He elaborated: “In all my research, there’s always one scientific fact that goes against every book. Everything comes from the workshop of the sun. I believe we are creations, and if we are creations, there must be a creator. Everyone is coming up with versions that are confusing me.”

How Epoh Music is changing the way Nigerians buy event tickets

In a country where live entertainment thrives, getting access to your favorite shows should be simple.

Yet for years, Nigerian event lovers have struggled with unreliable ticketing systems and last-minute hassles. That’s where Epoh Music steps in, redefining how fans discover, book, and attend events across Nigeria.

Epoh Music isn’t an event organizer; it’s a ticketing and event-listing platform built to connect organizers and audiences seamlessly. 

Whether it’s a sold-out concert in Lagos, a comedy show in Abuja, or a lifestyle event in Port Harcourt, Epoh Music makes it easier for fans to find what’s happening and get their tickets without stress.

For event organizers, the platform provides a smooth way to list shows, manage ticket sales, and reach a larger audience, all in one place.

How to list your event on Epoh Music

1. Visit epoh.ng and create an organizer account.

2. Add your event details; date, venue, ticket prices, and flyer.

3. Publish your event and start selling tickets instantly to thousands of fans.

For event lovers

Epoh Music keeps you connected to Nigeria’s entertainment pulse. From headline concerts to exclusive gatherings, you can browse events, buy tickets securely, and stay updated, all through the website or the app.

Visit epoh.ng or download the Epoh Music app on Google Play to get started.

Davido announces 5IVE tour in Nigeria

Afrobeats superstar Davido has thrilled fans with a major announcement; he’s taking his acclaimed 5IVE Tour to cities across Nigeria, marking his official homecoming after a successful North American run.

The Unavailable crooner took to social media to share the news, revealing that the Nigerian leg of his tour will kick off on October 18 at the Godswill Akpabio Stadium in Uyo, Akwa Ibom State. 

The 30,000-capacity venue is expected to be packed with fans eager to see the superstar perform live.

From there, Davido will head to Enugu, where he’s set to take over Michael Okpara Square on October 26, before storming Yola’s Mahmud Ribadu Square on October 29.

 The first phase of the tour will wrap up in Ibadan on November 2 at the historic Obafemi Awolowo Stadium, formerly known as Liberty Stadium.

But that’s not all. The DMW boss will round off the year with two massive shows: one at Eagle Square, Abuja, on December 14, and a grand finale at Eko Hotel, Lagos, on Christmas Eve, a night that promises to be nothing short of spectacular.

Sharing his excitement, Davido wrote:

“I’m blessed to perform all around the world, and everywhere I go, Nigeria goes with me. But this time… I’m bringing it HOME. 🫡 After an unforgettable North American tour, it’s only right we bring that energy back where it all began. 🇳🇬 This one’s for the culture. This one’s personal. This one’s for US.”

“Wizkid did not make me famous” - Tems

Grammy-winning Nigerian singer Tems has finally addressed the long-standing debate surrounding her rise to fame and her collaboration with Wizkid on the chart-topping hit Essence.

In a rare and candid interview, the Free Mind hitmaker spoke openly about the years of online chatter from Wizkid’s fanbase, who often credit the Ojuelegba crooner for her success.

 Tems, who is known for keeping her personal views out of public drama, said she felt it was time to set the record straight.

“Wizkid did not make me famous. His fans should stop moving mad. I love him, but let’s not twist the story. Essence was written by me,” she stated firmly.

Tems emphasized that while she has deep respect for Wizkid and values their collaboration, it was unfair and disrespectful for people to downplay her creative contribution to Essence and her growth as an artist.

Since its release in 2020, Essence has become a global anthem, earning both artists international acclaim and reshaping Afrobeats’ global sound. 

Yet, as Tems’ solo career continued to soar, with collaborations alongside Drake, Beyoncé, and Future, some fans of Wizkid accused her of being ungrateful for not consistently attributing her rise to him.

Tems pushed back against that narrative, reminding listeners that she was already on her way up before the collaboration. 

“People who really followed my journey know I had songs like Try Me and Mr Rebel before Essence came along. I was already building something,” she explained.

Sources close to both artists say the tension between Tems and Wizkid’s fanbase grew after she became a global star, with her artistic independence sometimes mistaken for pride.

 The debate resurfaced when she reportedly declined to perform Essence at a major international show, focusing instead on her new projects.

Odumodublvck reveals Wizkid and Davido didn’t charge him for features on new album ‘Industry Machine'

Nigerian rapper Odumodublvck has revealed that his collaborations with Afrobeats heavyweights Wizkid and Davido on his latest album, Industry Machine, came at no cost.

Speaking during a session on Afrobeats To The World on X, the Declan Rice hitmaker disclosed that both stars offered their support purely out of respect for his craft and hustle.

“Davido and Wizkid are real men. Both of them know they are on my album, but they are there by the special grace of God and on the virtue of the respect they have for my hustle because I didn’t pay them a dime,” Odumodublvck shared.

The rapper explained that Wizkid’s feature was more than just a verse, it was an entire song gifted to him.

“The song that Wizkid featured on is his song. He gave me the song. I didn’t record and send it to him, he gave me!” he said. “Wizkid’s verse on my album is the greatest verse you have ever heard.”

Davido appears on Grooving alongside Seun Kuti, while Wizkid is featured on Big Time. Both tracks form part of Odumodublvck’s Industry Machine album, which has quickly become one of the most talked-about releases in Nigerian hip-hop this year.

Tems champions African women in music with her powerful Leading Vibe Initiative

 

Nigerian superstar Tems is using her platform to inspire and empower the next generation of African women in music. 

The Grammy-winning singer and producer is not only redefining global Afrobeats with her soulful, introspective sound but also building pathways for women to thrive in an industry that has long been male-dominated.

Speaking in a recent interview with CNN’s Larry Madowo and Lamide Akintobi, the Free Mind hitmaker reflected on her journey to success and the challenges she faced along the way. 

“It was really hard to get people to take me seriously, not just as a producer, but as a singer,” she said. 

“I didn’t feel safe, and I didn’t feel seen, and I didn’t feel supported for a very long time.”

Those experiences inspired Tems to create the Leading Vibe Initiative, a mentorship and training platform designed to empower African women in the music business. 

Launched in Lagos in July 2025, the programme supports women aged 18 to 35 who want to become producers, sound engineers, and managers.

“There are so many talented women who can be producers, managers, audio engineers, but they’re not even visible,” Tems explained. “I want to make them visible and create a space where we can redefine the perspective of women in music.”

While the project began in Nigeria, Tems has made it clear that her vision extends across the continent. “We’re definitely taking this beyond Nigeria. Actually, we’re going to Kenya next,” she revealed.

Reflecting on fame and purpose, the Essence singer shared a powerful message about fulfillment: “Fame is not what you want. You could be famous and uncomfortable, famous and unsuccessful. What you really want is to be comfortable.”

Saheed Osupa reacts as Burna Boy calls him his greatest singer of all time

Saheed Osupa appreciates recognition from Burna Boy

Fuji music legend King Saheed Osupa is celebrating a career-defining moment after Burna Boy named him as his greatest singer of all time.

The Grammy-winning Afro-fusion star made the revelation during an appearance on Complex’s The Goat Talk alongside tennis icon Roger Federer. 

When asked about his GOAT singers, Burna Boy replied, “My GOAT singers are mostly like Fuji artists. Like Saheed Osupa.”

Overwhelmed with gratitude, Osupa took to social media to express how much the tribute means to him.

“Burna Boy's heartfelt tribute, naming me as his GOAT singer on a global stage, is a monumental moment that celebrates the soul of Fuji music and its timeless influence. This honour not only uplifts my journey, but also shines a brilliant light on our rich cultural heritage, bridging generations and genres worldwide,” he wrote.

The Fuji icon also described himself as a huge admirer of Burna Boy, calling the African Giant a titan of Afropop. 

He added that he looks forward to attending one of Burna Boy’s concerts to personally show appreciation.

“I am profoundly grateful for this powerful acknowledgment from a true Afropop titan, the African Giant himself, of whom I am also a great fan. Together, we are redefining African music legacy and inspiring the world with authentic, vibrant sounds… Keep prospering, my beloved Burna,” Osupa shared.

Burna Boy's heartfelt tribute, naming me as his GOAT singer on a global stage, is a monumental moment that celebrates the soul of Fuji music and its timeless influence.

This honour, not only, uplifts my journey, but also, shines a brilliant light on our rich cultural heritage,… pic.twitter.com/Auf75B39Do

— King (Dr.) Saheed Osupa Akorede Okunola (@saheedosupa) September 25, 2025

Tiwa savage says African music is bigger than Davido, Wizkid and Burna boy

Tiwa savage clears the air on her ‘big 3’ comment

Tiwa Savage has made it clear that she is not a fan of the ongoing “Big 3” narrative in Afrobeats that centers on Davido, Wizkid, and Burna Boy.

Speaking on American radio show The Breakfast Club, the award-winning singer addressed a comment she made at her London album launch concert, where she declared, “F**k the Big 3.” 

The statement stirred reactions online, with many fans assuming she was attacking the superstar trio.

Tiwa, however, clarified that her words were not directed at them personally but at the narrative itself.

“Not f**k them. But like F that narrative. This is a continent with so many artists, but we keep reducing it to three artists every time,” she explained.

According to her, while Davido, Wizkid, and Burna Boy undeniably command massive fan bases, African music should not be boxed into just three names. 

“They have a very big fan base. Their fan bases are active, I guess that’s why,” she added.

“Why did you say Fxck the Big 3?”

Tiwa Savage: I meant F that narrative, this is a continent & we keep reducing it to 3 Artists when we have diamond, Flavour, Yemi Alade, Tems, Asake, Rema….” pic.twitter.com/TkNtO7Ird9

— HYPETRIBE (@hypetribeng) September 23, 2025

Adekunle Gold announces new album

Adekunle Gold set to drop new album

Nigerian singer and songwriter Adekunle Gold has officially announced his forthcoming album through an exciting short film.

Taking to social media, the Ogaranya hitmaker shared that the project marks “a new chapter” in his career and life.

According to him, the body of work has been five years in the making and stands as his greatest accomplishment yet.

Adekunle explained that the album embodies his journey, from his roots to the man he has become, while also reflecting on significant milestones and struggles. 

He revealed that the project draws inspiration from the grief of losing his father, the joy of welcoming his daughter, and the many lessons learned through friendships, victories, and losses.

“This album is my story. It’s a reminder that I am truly capable of anything I set my mind on, and so are you," he wrote.

The singer, who has continuously evolved his sound and even changed his stage name along the way, thanked fans for embracing every phase of his artistry. 

He also noted that the upcoming project is a return to the essence of why he began making music.

Adekunle Gold confirmed that he won’t be revealing any featured artists until after the release, encouraging fans to first experience the work in its entirety.

Watch video below:

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6 Nigerian musicians whose children are musicians

 

Fela Kuti and son, Made

The Nigerian music industry is filled with legends who have paved the way for today’s superstars.

Interestingly, some of these icons have passed their talent on to their children, creating a generational impact in the industry. 

From Afrobeat pioneers to contemporary hitmakers, here are Nigerian musicians whose children are also making music.

1. Fela Kuti and his children (Femi and Seun Kuti)
The late Afrobeat legend Fela Kuti remains one of the most influential musicians to ever come out of Africa. His sons, Femi Kuti and Seun Kuti, have carried on his legacy. Femi has earned Grammy nominations and continues to tour globally with his band, while Seun leads his father’s Egypt 80 band, keeping Afrobeat alive for younger generations.

2. Sunny Ade and his son George Folarin Adegeye
King Sunny Ade, the juju music icon, has inspired generations of musicians. One of his sons, George Folarin Adegeye, has followed in his father’s footsteps by pursuing music, although he keeps a relatively low profile compared to his legendary father.

3. Ebenezer Obey and his sons
Chief Commander Ebenezer Obey, the veteran juju musician, also raised musically inclined children. His sons have been involved in music, performing gospel and contemporary sounds that keep the Obey musical tradition alive.

4. Lagbaja and his daughter, Moyinoluwa
While Lagbaja remains famously mysterious behind his mask, his daughter Moyinoluwa has shown musical interest as well. Though she isn’t as mainstream as her father, she continues to explore music and creativity, showing that the apple doesn’t fall far from the tree.

5. 9ice and his son, Zamir
Alapomeji crooner 9ice has also seen his musical legacy passed on. His son Zamir, who once went viral for freestyling at a young age, has expressed interest in music, sparking conversations about whether he will step fully into the industry like his father.

6. Wasiu Ayinde (K1 De Ultimate) and his children
Fuji legend K1 De Ultimate has raised several children, some of whom are musically gifted. His son Sultan Anifowoshe has shown interest in music, though he’s still carving his path compared to his father’s legendary status in fuji.

Lojay delays debut album release

Lojay explains why his debut album is being delayed

Nigerian singer and songwriter Lojay has announced a slight delay in the release of his highly anticipated debut album. 

The Monalisa crooner took to social media to share the news with fans, explaining that while the project is ready, he wants to ensure it lives up to expectations.

According to Lojay, he has been working on the body of work for the past two years and poured so much of himself into the project. 

However, some factors beyond his control have forced him to push the release date back by a few weeks.

“This being my debut album, it’s so important to me that when you press play, it feels timeless. After all this time, I want to be sure it’s exactly right,” he told fans.

Despite the setback, the singer reassured his supporters that their patience would not go unrewarded. 

“I really hope you’ll still rock with me through this, your patience and support mean everything. I promise it’ll be worth the wait,” he added.

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5 thigs to know before booking a Nigerian DJ for your event

How to book a Nigerian DJ without stress

One of the most important decisions when planning an event in Nigeria is choosing the right DJ.

 A good DJ doesn’t just play songs, they set the tone, manage the energy in the room, and keep your guests entertained from start to finish. But finding and booking the right one can feel like a stressful task if you don’t know where to start.

Before you rush to book, here are a few things to consider:

1. Know your event type
Different DJs excel at different occasions. Some are great at weddings, others specialize in clubs, while some thrive at corporate events. Make sure you choose one who understands the vibe you’re going for.

2. Check their music style
A DJ might be popular, but does their playlist suit your crowd? If your guests love Afrobeats and amapiano, a DJ who focuses on house or EDM might not be the right fit.

3. Look at reviews and reputation
Word of mouth, past client reviews, and event footage can tell you a lot about a DJ’s professionalism and ability to keep a crowd engaged.

4. Clarify equipment needs
Some DJs bring their own sound system and lights, while others expect you to provide them. Always confirm this beforehand to avoid last-minute surprises.

5. Budget and availability
Big-name DJs come with bigger price tags and busier schedules. It’s always best to lock in your booking early and confirm costs upfront.

Now, while all of these steps are important, the actual process of finding and booking the right DJ can still feel like a hassle. That’s why platforms like Epoh Music are changing the game. Instead of making endless calls, you can simply download the Epoh Music App (or visit epoh.ng), register or log in, tap the menu, select “DJ,” and instantly browse through verified DJs with clear profiles and reviews. In just a few minutes, you can secure the right fit for your event without stress.

With the right preparation, and the convenience of Epoh Music, you can spend less time worrying about logistics and more time looking forward to a dance floor full of happy guests.

Davido is the most influential person in Nigeria - Asa Asika

Asa Asika says Davido’s brand deals pay for most of his music videos

Music executive Asa Asika opened up about the role brand partnerships play in shaping Davido’s career.

The superstar’s longtime manager revealed that endorsements do more than boost Davido’s public image, they also cover a huge chunk of his music production.

“I can’t remember the last time I paid 100% for a music video for Davido. I always have a brand that’s willing to pay for at least half the video,” Asika explained.

According to him, major brands like Martel, Infinix, and PlayStation have all funded some of the singer’s visuals, thanks to strategic collaborations built on long-term relationships rather than short-term payouts.

Asika described Davido as a cultural force whose influence extends far beyond music, even crediting him with shaping trends and boosting brand visibility. 

“I think Davido is the most influential person in Nigeria. I have seen this firsthand,” he said, pointing out how seamlessly the artist’s lifestyle blends into his endorsements.

Davido admits he almost removed his biggest 2025 hit with Omah Lay from ‘5ive’

Davido and Omah Lay

 Davido has revealed that With You, his smash collaboration with Omah Lay, nearly didn’t make it onto his fifth studio album, 5ive.

 Speaking in an interview with American TV network ABC, the Afrobeats superstar confessed, “It almost didn’t make the album… Every time I remember I almost took it off the album, my heart starts beating.”

Placed as the closing track on the 17-song project, With You has since emerged as not only the standout song on 5ive, but also one of the biggest Afrobeats records of 2025. 

Reflecting on the collaboration, Davido added, “Shout out to Omah Lay. I am glad we were able to collaborate on a true African classic.”

The track’s success has spilled over to his 5 Alive world tour, where it has become a fan favourite. 

During his sold-out show at the Scotia Bank Arena in Canada, the crowd erupted when Omah Lay joined him on stage to perform the hit live.

Made Kuti says Fela died broke

Made claims Fela died broke

Grammy-nominated Afrobeat musician Made Kuti has opened up about the financial state of his grandfather, the late music icon Fela Anikulapo Kuti.

He said the pioneer of Afrobeat passed away poor despite making huge sums during his career.

“Fela died poor. He was the kind of person who made a bunch of cash and had the kind of money that could have bought the whole street,” Made said during an appearance on the Tea By Tae podcast.

He explained that Fela’s generosity and open-door lifestyle meant that his wealth was constantly shared with others. 

“Anybody from the street could walk into Fela’s house. He would return from a show in Kalakuta, open a box of money, and say anybody who needs it should take it,” he recalled.

Made’s account mirrors stories told by his father, Femi Kuti, and uncle, Seun Kuti, who have both spoken about life growing up in Kalakuta Republic. 

They revealed that Fela even insisted they call him by his name rather than “Dad,” as he didn’t want them to receive special treatment.

DJ Tunez shares how Wizkid personally chose him as official DJ

DJ Tunez recounts how he became Wizkid's DJ

DJ Tunez has opened up about the moment Wizkid invited him to become his official DJ, a move that marked the start of a partnership now spanning eight years.

Speaking in an interview with BBC 1Xtra, the US-based Nigerian DJ revealed that his journey began in the African diaspora scene in America, where he gained a following by hosting Afrocentric events. 

As his name grew, he sought to build stronger ties with the Nigerian community.

During one of his December trips to Lagos, Tunez, who had already exchanged messages with Wizkid online, finally met the singer in person. 

“He said, ‘I need you to be my DJ. We are going to take over the world,’” Tunez recalled.

That meeting kicked off a successful working relationship that has seen Tunez join Wizkid on global stages, including the singer’s record-breaking three-night sold-out run at London’s O2 Arena. 

Over the years, they’ve also collaborated on music, including a recent track with rising artist Fola.

As part of Wizkid’s Starboy imprint, DJ Tunez continues to release his own projects in partnership with Sony Music’s RCA, further cementing his place as one of Afrobeats’ most prominent DJs.

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Tinubu backs AFRIMA 2025 as Nigeria prepares to host Africa’s biggest music awards in Lagos

Nigeria is set to welcome the continent’s biggest music celebration, AFRIMA 2025, following an official endorsement from President Bola Ahmed Tinubu. 

The president’s approval came after the African Union Commission reached out to Nigeria for collaboration on the next edition of the awards, prompting swift action from the federal government.

With Lagos selected as the host city, preparations are already in full swing. 

An inter-ministerial Local Organising Committee (LOC) has been established, bringing together the Ministries of Arts, Culture, Tourism and Creative Economy; Foreign Affairs; Information; Interior; Youth; Education; and Aviation. 

Key agencies such as the Nigerian Film Corporation and the National Film and Video Censors Board are also on board, alongside representatives from the AFRIMA International Committee and the African Union. 

Speaking at the inauguration of the LOC in Abuja on July 9, 2025, Minister of Arts, Culture, Tourism and Creative Economy, Hannatu Musa Musawa, expressed her enthusiasm for Nigeria’s role in delivering what she called the most spectacular AFRIMA yet. 

“This is more than just an awards show,” she said. “It is a major platform to create jobs, promote tourism, celebrate African talents, and tell our positive stories authentically through music to the world.” 

Musawa emphasized that the event is directly aligned with President Tinubu’s broader vision of using the creative sector as a strategic tool for national development and economic growth. 

Adding to the momentum, Ugochi Akudo-Nwosu, Director of Entertainment and Creative Economy, conveyed the president’s official endorsement. 

“We appreciate the administration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for granting Nigeria the opportunity to host this historic event,” she said, thanking the Honourable Ministers of Arts and Foreign Affairs for jointly driving the collaboration that brought AFRIMA back to Nigeria. 

AFRIMA President and Executive Producer Mike Dada also applauded the federal government’s swift response and commitment. 

“We thank President Tinubu for his quick and visionary approval and backing of AFRIMA 2025,” Dada said. 

“This is not just an event approval. It’s a loud statement that the Nigerian government values the culture and creative industry and its power to promote unity and prosperity across Africa.” 

Dada also praised Lagos State for accepting the role of host city and investing in the creative sector.

“Nigeria has always been a creative and cultural powerhouse,” he said. 

“With this support, we are confident that this year’s AFRIMA will be an unforgettable celebration of African talent and creativity for the whole world to see.” 

 The highly anticipated event will return to Nigeria after its last edition was successfully hosted in Dakar, Senegal. AFRIMA 2025 is scheduled to take place in Lagos from November 25 to 30. 

Asake reportedly left YBNL after feeling cheated by Olamide

Entertainment lawyer Yemisi Falaye has come forward with fresh revelations about why Afrobeats star Asake ended his relationship with Olamide’s YBNL Nation label. 

According to her, the singer made an emotional decision to sign a contract she had advised him against, and eventually regretted it. 

Back in December 2024, rumors swirled that Asake and Olamide had quietly gone their separate ways.

The whispers grew louder in February 2025 when Asake launched his own imprint, Giran Republic, solidifying his independence. 

While both artists maintained a respectful silence publicly, Falaye has now opened up on what allegedly led to the split. 

She claimed Asake was warned about the long-term consequences of the agreement offered to him but chose to ignore her advice. “I remember when Olamide was going to sign Asake,” she recounted.

“He was so overwhelmed that he said to Olamide, ‘I’m not going to get a lawyer to review this agreement. YBNL wants to sign me, do you know how long I’ve been waiting?’” 

Falaye said Olamide himself encouraged Asake to seek legal counsel before making any commitment.

Asake reportedly brought the contract to her, but when she raised red flags about the terms, particularly the clause that would see him assign his rights “in perpetuity,” things took a turn. 

“I advised him not to sign it,” she said. “And he looked at me and said, ‘Are you kidding me? You said what? Did they send you? You want to pour sand in my garri.’ He insulted me and called my bluff.”

Asake allegedly disregarded her concerns and signed the contract on the spot. 

According to Falaye, the deal ultimately didn’t favor him as he had expected. 

“Because if it did, he would have renewed the agreement or at least been open to reviewing the terms,” she said. “But he was so hurt, he felt cheated.”

Rema joins Drake on stage at Wireless Festival (Video)

Rema and Drake on stage at Wireless Festival 2025

Canadian superstar Drake surprised fans on the second night of his Wireless Festival headline run by bringing out Afrobeats sensation Rema for a high-energy performance. 

The Nigerian hitmaker wowed the crowd with his viral smash Ozeba, lifted from his Grammy-nominated album HEIS. 

Rema’s appearance added extra heat to an already historic weekend, marking his third time gracing the Wireless stage after standout performances in 2022 and 2024. 

But this one carried special weight, not just because of the scale of Drake’s three-day headline set, but because of what it could signal next. 

Back in 2024, a leaked folder of unreleased Drake tracks, dubbed “100 Gig” included a rumoured collaboration with Rema.

Now, with the duo finally sharing a stage, fans are convinced that a joint track is more than just speculation. 

Drake also previewed a new song with UK rapper Central Cee during the weekend, and fans are hopeful that Rema could feature on the Canadian’s upcoming project, expected to drop in 2025. 

If that happens, he’ll join Wizkid and Tems as part of the elite club of Nigerian stars to land collaborations with Drake.

See video below:

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Burna Boy backtracks on Afrobeats diss, says “I get it now"

Burna Boy apologizes for Afrobeats criticism

Grammy-winning artist Burna Boy has officially apologized for his controversial comments about Afrobeats, acknowledging that his previous views stemmed from a lack of understanding of the genre’s broader significance. 

Speaking on The Official UK Afrobeats Chart Show with Eddie Kadi, the Nigerian superstar reflected on the backlash he faced after stating in a 2023 Apple Music interview with Zane Lowe that Afrobeats “lacked substance.” 

His statement stirred major debate in the music community, with many fans and artists expressing disappointment at what they saw as a dismissal of the genre’s cultural impact. 

Now, Burna Boy has offered a more nuanced perspective, explaining that his original comment was rooted in his long-standing effort to distinguish his music as Afro-fusion.

"I described my music as Afro-fusion because it was as if there was almost no place for it at home, and I had to create my own place for it,” he said, explaining his resistance to being boxed into the Afrobeats label. 

However, with more insight into the movement behind Afrobeats, Burna admitted that his perspective has shifted.

“I didn’t understand that we needed an umbrella term for what we were doing to actually get somewhere,” he said. 

“If I understood this, I would have gone about it differently because why would I want to destroy what I am building?” 

 He continued, “I didn’t understand why everyone wanted my music to be inside one box... I totally get it now and I apologize for that confusion.” 

Burna Boy's willingness to reflect and take accountability has been met with praise, with fans appreciating the clarity and maturity in his response. 

“I apologize for the confusion,” he added, noting that he now fully supports the use of Afrobeats as a unifying banner for the global rise of Nigerian music. 

The artist, who recently dropped his eighth studio album No Sign of Weakness, featuring collaborations with Mick Jagger, Travis Scott, and Stromae, is gearing up for a major tour across North America and Europe, where he will headline several iconic venues.

Ayra Starr has officially joined Roc Nation record label

Ayra Starr signs deal with Roc Nation

Afrobeats star Ayra Starr is making international waves once again, with reports that she has officially joined Jay-Z’s Roc Nation label.

While neither the singer nor the label has publicly confirmed the deal, all signs point to the exciting new chapter.

The speculation began after Roc Nation promoted Ayra Starr’s upcoming single Hot Body on their official social media platforms, writing: “Hot Body by Ayra Starr coming soon.” 

Fans immediately noticed the endorsement and took it as a clear signal that the Nigerian star has been added to the label’s growing roster of global talent. 

Further fueling the rumours, Ayra Starr’s biography now appears on Roc Nation’s official website, listed alongside major international artists managed by the label. 

Although Ayra Starr is still signed to Don Jazzy’s Mavin Records, the partnership with Roc Nation seems to mark a significant move toward strengthening her presence on the global stage. 

The label, known for managing top-tier acts like Rihanna and J. Cole, could help amplify Ayra’s reach as her career continues to soar. 

News of the reported signing has sent fans into a frenzy online, with many celebrating the singer’s steady rise to global recognition.

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