Tag: Davido

CNN’s African Voices ‘My Drive’ takes a ride through local neighbourhoods with African entertainers

In a special edition of African Voices, CNN’s Larry Madowo highlights the My Drive series, hearing the stories of what inspires musicians and actors as they drive through their neighbourhoods.

First up, Nigerian musician Pheelz, whose single ‘Finesse’ made Time Magazine and Rolling Stone’s ‘Best Songs of 2022’ list. He says of his sound, “I would call my genre Afro World. Cause I think my sound is African, but it’s for the world as well.”

During the drive, Pheelz gives his advice to aspiring musicians, “Know your why. Know why you’re doing this. A lot of people do it for the wrong reasons. But I feel like just the passion of it should be enough goal for you.”

Fellow Nigerian singer-songwriter, Korede Bello has similar advice. He tells CNN, “You have to find something that makes you stand out. But most importantly start with, why? Why are you doing this? It’s always been a question in my subconscious, why are you doing what you do? Because that’s where you get meaning from. And that’s how you can stay when the times get rough.”

Bello began songwriting in primary school. His 2015 hit single ‘Godwin’ now has more than 21 million views on YouTube. He speaks about his motivation, “The inspiration for everything I do is the intention to help people feel better. And fortunately for me, I’m in the art industry, I can do that with music.”

Nigerian actress and producer, Toyin Abraham Ajeyemi has acted in more than 70 films and TV shows. During her drive, she discusses her job, “I love acting. I love the fact that I have to be, I will be someone else, playing someone else. I like the fact that I’m like a messenger to a lot of people. I like the fact that with me you can pass your message to a lot of people.”

In Ghana, actress and director, Yvonne Nelson explains her decision to fund her own film company, “I registered a company in 2010 – YN Productions. I registered a company because I felt too much hatred in the industry. I had a ban on my head because a group of producers called the FIPAG banned me. And then I said to myself, but Yvonne, you can tell your own stories So I made the move, and then in 2011, I started telling my own stories. And it’s been rewarding.”

Nelson has also owned and operated a day care since 2019. While driving, she talks about this venture, “I want to make a difference with how our education sector is in the country. So, when I’m no more and I’m gone, I want people to look at education in Ghana and go like, oh wow, this is Yvonne’s touch.”

Finally, Senegalese musician, Wally B. Seck takes CNN on a drive around his neighbourhood. He speaks about gaining traction as an international artist, “It took me a lot of time to access the international level, but I quietly made my way so that I got the opportunity to play with international musicians like Chris Brown, Jason Derulo, Diamond, Davido, etc. I think it’s not too easy because here in Senegal we are not numerous. We are only 17 million inhabitants. Some other countries have more than 200 million. That’s the reason only a few Senegalese musicians are on the international scene.”

Seck sums up his advice to future music stars, “I think the best advice is don’t be afraid. Keep going, don’t be afraid. The other thing is also to be concentrated on your goals and believe in God. Because we got everything from God.”

August 16, 2023
The Plug Dominates Headies Nominations with 13 Nods

Artists from Nigeria’s leading talent management company, The Plug, dominated the Headies Awards list of nominees with 13 nods. The culture advisory company confirmed this, following a roll out of nominations by the award organisers for its 16th edition on wednesday.

Leading the pack from its roster is Afrobeats titan, Davido, who bagged 5 nominations, scoring 2 each for ‘Stand Strong’ and his feature on ‘Electricity’. The superstar, who is currently on tour, also earned a nod for his latest album, ‘Timeless’, under the best album category.

Victony who recently released two singles ‘my darling’ and ‘angelus’ secured four nominations with ‘Soweto’, tapped for the ‘Best Recording of the Year’ and ‘Viewers Choice’ categories. He will seek to edge out other stars for the ‘Album of the Year’ and the highly coveted ‘Next Rated’ awards.

Other nominees managed by The Plug include internationally acclaimed afro-fusion star, Ckay, who features in the ‘Best R&B Single’ for his hit track ‘MMADU’; South African sensation, Focalistic, who is nominated for ‘Best Southern African Artiste of the Year’, and Alte music trailblazer, BOJ, who also gained two nominations for ‘Best Alternative Song’ and ‘Best Alternative Album’.

July 13, 2023
Stonebwoy Releases Highly Anticipated Album: “5th Dimension”

…takes fans on a musical journey with 17 electrifying tracks

International reggae/dancehall sensation, Stonebwoy, is taking music fans on a musical journey with his unique blend of global influences, through his highly anticipated fifth studio album, titled “5thDimension.”

Tipped to be a must-listen for true fans worldwide, Stonebwoy’s “5thDimension” features 17 tracks — each crafted with his signature style and lyrical prowess. From infectious dancehall beats to soulful reggae melodies, the album is a testament to Stonebwoy’s versatility and ability to push the boundaries of his music.

With collaborations by both local and international artists including British rapper Stormzy, Grammy award winner and African singer Angelique Kidjo, Nigerian Afrobeats singer, Davido, South African, DJ Maphorisa, and Jamaican reggae rapper, Shaggy, among others, “5thDimension” is a collection of sounds that showcase the Grammy nominee’s ability to seamlessly fuse different genres and cultures into his music.

Speaking about the album, Stonebwoy expressed his excitement, saying: “I am thrilled to share ‘5thDimension’ with my fans around the world. This album is a reflection of my growth as an artist and as a person. I have poured my heart and soul into each track, and I hope that it resonates with my fans and brings them joy and inspiration.”

“5thDimension” will be available for streaming and download on all major digital platforms today 28th of April, 2023.

April 28, 2023
Firstbank’s Sponsored Timeless Concert by Davido to boosts the Music Industry

…FirstBank’s sponsorship of Timeless is the third time it is supporting Davido since it first supported Davido’s 30 Billion concert in 2017

The much-anticipated timeless concert by David “Davido” Adeleke, unarguably one of Nigeria’s biggest music exports of all time, was an electrifying music showpiece that further reiterated the lofty height and growth that has defined the Nigerian Music industry in recent years as Nigeria’s premier banking giant, FirstBank once again, threw its weight behind Davido.

The Timeless Concert in Lagos was the climax to the treble of concerts to complement the 31 March 2023 launch of his fourth studio album, ‘Timeless’. Before the Lagos concert, Davido performed at the Irvine Plaza in New York on 2 April 2023 and in London on 5 April 2023.

The 17-track project album has topped several charts, breaking and setting several records. Big amongst these was the recognition of the Timeless album as the first African album to hit Number 1, topping the US iTunes Albums Chart which is credited to be the world’s biggest music market.

Davido the Timeless Concert in Lagos was indeed more than music, as it unified individuals from all works of lives, irrespective of tradition, culture, economic strata and nationalities. Fans and music lovers trooped to the venue, the historical Tafawa Balewa Square, from far and wide to show their love and support for Davido, have fun, relax, connect and reunite.

A show without a well-constructed stage is a no show as staging promotes the interaction and connection between the artistes and fans.

The Timeless stage, the biggest in West Africa and second biggest in Africa, was groundbreaking in both design and aesthetics.

The beauty of the stage was reminiscent of the words of Canadian international bestseller, Yann Marte: “Nature can put on a thrilling show. The stage is vast, the lighting is dramatic, the extras are innumerable, and the budget for special effects is unlimited”.

These words simply depicted the nature, class and details applied to the construction of the Timeless stage as its exquisiteness was conspicuous during the day well ahead of the fall into the night when the concert took centre stage at Tafawa Balewa Square in Lagos, Nigeria’s commercial nerve centre.

The hosts of the night, celebrity skit makers and comedians, KieKie and Mr Macaroni added spice to the event, as they thrilled fans to a more than music experience, whetting their appetite for the grand performance of the evening; who else but Davido.

Timeless Concert was lit with a sensational performance by several leading artistes including, Asake, Mayorkun, Skiibii, Iyanya, B-Red, Pheelz, Fave, Spyro, Iyanya, Khaid.

Other artistes that added spark to the night include Peruzzi, The Cavemen, Majeeed, Odumodublvck, Starboy Terri and May D, amongst many others.

Expectedly, Davido’s entrance received a never-ending ovation as fans could not hold back their excitement of seeing him perform yet again. The Nigerian music legend and globally acclaimed music sensation’s well over two-hour electrifying performance on stage had his fans spellbound on several classical hits from previous albums and those from his most recent album, Timeless.

The hits performed from his previous and most recent albums included, Skelewu, Dami Duro, Gobe, Aye, Unavailable, Over Dem All and Feel.

Davido also performed Electricity, a duet with Pheelz, a smash hit in 2022.

A déjà vu of some sort to Davido fans, as FirstBank was the headline sponsor of Davido 30 billion concert in 2017.

Also, as part of its yearly DecemberIssaVybe fiesta and supported events in 2021, the Bank sponsored ‘A Decade of Davido’ Concert, organised to celebrate 10 years of achievement of the Nigerian American pop singer and global music sensation. Fast forward to the Timeless concert in 2023, the Bank’s yearly DecemberIssavybe fiesta, no doubt came pretty early much as it is a long road to December from this month, April.

The bank’s dedication to going beyond functional products and benefits for its stakeholders and providing these types of enabling experiences sets it apart in the industry and solidifies its position as a leader in not just directly supporting the arts and entertainment industry but economically impacting its value chain.

Anyone not following the Bank is surely on a long thing but hey, it is never too late as there are still many exciting moments the Bank creates on its social media ecosystem via @firstbanknigeria (Instagram); @FirstBankngr (Twitter) and First Bank of Nigeria Limited (Facebook).

FirstBank’s support of Davido’s Timeless Concert is undoubtedly a curtain raiser as the bar has been raised for another back-to-back hit for the financial giant to create more memorable experience for its customers and social media followers in 2023 as the year fast edges into DecemberIssavybe due to hold in some 9 months’ time.

April 24, 2023
‘I’m ready to get back’: Afrobeats superstar Davido drops new album ‘Timeless’

In an interview with CNN’s Larry Madowo, Afrobeats musician, Davido discusses how losing his son affected his music and his new album ‘Timeless.’

In November 2022, David Adeleke, better known as Davido, took a break from public life to deal with the tragic loss of his three-year-old son, Ifeanyi. After almost six months away – except for a performance at the 2022 FIFA World Cup closing ceremony – the American-born entertainer has released a new album saying he is healing and “ready to stand up again.”

The 17-track album called “Timeless” is Davido’s fourth studio project since he ventured into music 11 years ago. The title, he says, is a manifestation of his goal for the album to remain a classic for decades. “I know in years to come, if you interview me, we are still going to be talking about this album,” he recently told Madowo in Lagos, Nigeria.

The artist credits his return to the music scene to the overwhelming amount of support he received from family, friends, fans and well-wishers. “At some point I couldn’t open my Instagram for weeks. One day, I just checked it and I saw messages from every kind of person in the world. I was like ‘you’re fine, you see everybody is rooting for you.’ That was one thing that really made me strong enough to stand up again, get back in the studio and do what I love,” Davido told CNN.

He describes the journey the album takes the listener on, “With this record you will definitely hear me talk about a couple things I’ve been through personally, but you are also gonna dance.”

Now that he is back doing what he loves, the goal, he says, is for him and his team to continue to make music that resonates with people. “That’s what we’re here to do, that’s what we were brought to do in this world. I’m just ready to get back, I’m ready to just go back on the road. A lot of things are going to be different.”

Larry Madowo’s full interview with Davido will air in a special African Voices Changemakers episode on April 22^nd2023.

April 5, 2023

8th All Africa Music Awards (AFRIMA) Full List of Winners

It was a breathtaking experience, Sunday night, at the 15-000 capacity Dakar Arena, in Dakar, Senegal, as superstars across the continent clinched trophies at the 8th edition of the All Africa Music Awards (AFRIMA) (www.AFRIMA.org), aka ‘The Teranga Edition’.

Broadcast live to over 84 countries around the world, the 8th AFRIMA in Senegal saw superstars like the Nigerian maverick Davido, clinch 3 awards in one night as he emerged winner of the “Best African Collaboration”, “Best Duo or Group in African Electro”, and “Best Male Artiste in African Inspirational Music” categories, respectively.

Other continental champions such as Egyptian rapper Marwan Moussa followed closely, clinching two awards for “Best African Rapper/Lyricist,” as well as “Best Duo or Group in African Hip Hop” categories, respectively.

Importantly, in the non-voting category, the International Executive Committee bestowed the “Legend Award” for the 8th AFRIMA to three iconic Senegalese veterans including Youssou N’dour, Baaba Maal, and Ismail Lo.

All the winners across all the remaining 39 categories for the 8th AFRIMA in Senegal were decided by popular votes from music lovers. The voting period for the 8th AFRIMA began on September 25, 2022 and ended on Friday January 13, 2023. The voting procedure and results were reviewed and collated by an international auditor of great repute, PricewaterhouseCoopers (PwC) – auditors of the Oscars.

Find the full list of winners for the 8th AFRIMA below:

REGIONAL WINNERS

Best Female Artiste in Western Africa
Asa	Ocean	Nigeria
Gyakie	Something	Ghana
Josey Ft. Bonigo (Winner)	Zambeleman	Cote d’Ivoire
Manamba Kante	Bhouloun Djouri	Guinea
Oumou Sangare	Wassulu Don	Mali
Simi	Woman	Nigeria
Soraia Ramos	BKBN	Cape Verde
Tems	Crazy Tings	Nigeria
Tiwa Savage Ft. Brandy	Somebody’s Son	Nigeria
Viviane CHIDID Ft. Bass Thioung	Sweet Game	Senegal

Best Male Artiste in Southern Africa
A-Reece	Couldn’t Have Said It Better, Pt.3	South Africa
Blxckie feat A-Reece	Sneaky	South Africa
DJ Tarico Ft. DJ Consequence, Nelson Tivane & Preck	Number One	Mozambique
Gemini Major Ft. Ayra Starr	Ooh Lala	Malawi
Focalistic X Madumane and Mellow & Sleazy feat. DJ Maphorisa	16 Days No Sleep	South Africa
Kabza De Small Ft. DJ Maphorisa	Abalele	South Africa
Musketeers Ft. Azmo	Danko feat. Azmo	Namibia
Master KG x Wanitwa Mos Ft. Nkosazana Daughter, Basetsana, Obeey Amor	Dali Nguwe	South Africa
Winky D (Winner)	Happy Again	Zimbabwe
Zakes Bantwini Ft. Kasango	Osama	South Africa

Best Female Artiste in Southern Africa
DJ Yessonia Ft. Boohle	Ngifuna Wena	Namibia
DJ Zinhle Ft. Black Motion, Kabza De Small & Nokwazi	Siyabonga	South Africa
Kamo Mphela	Ghost	South Africa
Makhadzi (Winner)	Mama	South Africa
Nadia Nakai Ft. Lucasraps	Not The Same	South Africa
Nomfundo Moh Ft. ShaSha & Ami Faku	Phakade Lami	South Africa
ShaSha Ft. Kamo Mphela & Felo Le Tee	iPiano	Zimbabwe
Simmy	We Were Here	South Africa
Tamy Moyo	Sare	Zimbabwe
Uncle Waffles & Tony Duardo Ft. Sino Msolo & Boibizza	Tanzania	South Africa

Best Male Artiste in Northern Africa
A.L.A (Winner)	30	Tunisia
Ali Loka	Matkhafesh Yamma	Egypt
Ahmed Saad Ft. 3enba & Double Zuksh	AlMoulouk	Egypt
DJ Snake	Disco Maghreb	Algeria
Draganov	Chichi	Morocco
El Grande Toto	Salade Coco	Morocco
Marwan Moussa	Batal 3alam	Egypt
Snor	Kasseta	Morocco
Soolking	Suavemente	Algeria
Wegz	Albakht	Egypt

Best Female Artiste in Northern Africa
Faouzia (Winner)	RIP Love	Morocco
Jaylann	Oui Oui	Morocco
Kenza Morsli Ft. DJ Adel	Moustahil	Algeria
Lyna Mahyem	Mal De Toi	Algeria
Manal	Makhelaw Magalou	Morocco
Marwa Loud & Moha K	Ghir Ntiya	Morocco
Ruby	Namet Nenna	Egypt
Rym	Stylo Warqa	Morocco

Best Male Artiste in Central Africa
C4 Pedro	Posa	Angola
Dadju	Ambassadeur	DRC
Fally Ipupa (Winner)	Bloqué	DRC
Innoss’B	Mortel-06	DRC
Gaz Mawete	500	DRC
Matias Damasio	Como Antes	Angola
Ninho	Jefe	DRC
Roga Roga & Extra Musica	Bokoko	DRC
Tayc	Dodo	Cameroon
Tenor Ft. Innoss’B	Mami Wata	Cameroon

Best Male Artiste in Eastern Africa
Addis Legesse	Enja	Ethiopia
Bien (& Aaron Rimbui)	Bald Men Anthem	Kenya
Diamond Platnumz Ft. Zuchu	Mtasubiri	Tanzania
Eddy Kenzo	Songa	Uganda
Kassmasse (Winner)	Sewasew	Ethiopia
King Saha	Zakayo	Uganda
Marioo Ft. Jovial	Mi Amor	Tanzania
Mbosso Ft. Costa Titch & Phantom Steeze	Moyo	Tanzania
Nyashinski Ft. Femi One	Properly	Kenya
Rayvanny Ft. Vjollca	Pele Pele	Tanzania

Best Female Artiste in Eastern Africa
Betty G	Addis Semay	Ethiopia
Frida Amani	Fala Mimi	Tanzania
Hewan Gebrewold	Shemuna	Ethiopia
Muthaka (Winner)	Sorry	Kenya
Nandy	Siwezi	Tanzania
Nikita Kering	Last Name	Kenya
Rosa Ree	Watatubu	Tanzania
Spice Diana Ft. DJ Seven	Tujuoge	Uganda
Tanasha Donna	Maradonna	Kenya
Zuchu Ft. Bontle Smith & Tyler	Kitu	Tanzania

CONTINENTAL WINNER

Song of the year
Black Sherif	Kwaku The Traveller	Ghana
Burna Boy	Last Last	Nigeria
Costa Titch feat. Banaba Des, Alfa Kat, Man T, Sdida, C’Buda M	Big Flexa	South Africa
Dadju	Ambassaduer	DRC
Didi B (Winner)	Tala	Cote d’Ivoire
DJ Snake	Disco Maghreb	Algeria
Fireboy DML feat. Ed Sheeran	Peru (Remix)	NIgeria
Kizz Daniel feat. Tekno	Buga	Nigeria
Marioo feat. Jovial	Mi Amor	Tanzania
Rema	Calm Down	Nigeria
Soolking	Suavemente	Algeria
Wegz	Elbakht	Egypt

Album of the year
Brymo	9: Esan	Nigeria
Burna Boy (Winner)	Love Damini	Nigeria
Dadju	Cullilan	DRC
Diamond Platnumz	First of All	Tanzania
Didi B	History	Cote d’Ivoire
Kabza De Small	KOA II	South Africa
Nomfundo Moh	Amagama	South Africa
Oumou Sangare	Timbuktu	Mali
Soolking	Sans Visa	Algeria
Rema	Raves & Roses	Nigeria

Producer of the year
C4 Pedro	Posa C4 Pedro	Angola
CKay & BMH	Emiliana by CKay	Nigeria
Kimambobeats	Mi Amor by Marioo feat. Jovial	Tanzania
Nyadjiko & Dadju	Ambassaduer by Dadju	DRC
Rahal	Elbakht by Wegz	Egypt
Reward Beats	Buga by Kizz Daniel feat. Tekno	Nigeria
Sdida & Man T	Big Flexa by Costa Titch	South Africa
Serge Beynaud	C’est Dose by Serge Beynaud	Cote d’Ivoire
Shizzi (Winner)	Peru (Remix) by Fireboy DML	Nigeria
Stan-E Kibulu & William Grigahcine	Disco Magrehb by DJ Snake	Algeria

A Artist of the Year
Burna Boy (Winner)	Last Last	Nigeria
CKay	Emiliana	Nigeria
Dadju	Ambassaduer	DRC
Diamond Platnumz feat. Zuchu	Mtasubiri	Tanzania
Fireboy DML feat. Ed Sheeran	Peru (Remix)	Nigeria
Kabza De Small feat. DJ Maphorisa, Ami Faku	Asibe Happy	South Africa
Manal	Makhelaw Magalou	Morroco
Tiwa Savage feat. Brandy	Somebody’s Son	Nigeria
Wegz	Elbakht	Egypt
Zakes Batwini feat. Kasango	Osama	South Africa

Songwriter of the Year
Bridget Blue & Jibiril Blessing	Woman by Bridget Blue	Kenya
Daniel Baron	How To Feel by Daniel Baron	South Africa
Iba One (Winner)	Hommage a mes parents	Mali
Lloyiso Mandlovandile Gigana, Luke Goliath	Seasons by Lloyiso	South Africa
Martin Obudho, Muthaka	Sorry	Kenya
Matias Damasio	Como Antes	Angola
Mordecai ‘Dex’ Mwini	Reason by Wanavokali Ft. H_art the Band	Kenya
Olawale Olofo’ro	Fura Sára by Brymo	Nigeria
Rokia Kone, Garret Lee	Kurunba	Mali
Sidy Diop	Ngalam	Senegal

Winner

Breakout Breakout Artist of the Year
Asake (Winner)	Peace Be Unto You (PBUY)	Nigeria
Camidoh	Sugarcane (Remix) feat. Darkoo, King Promise, Mayorkun	Ghana
Costa Titch	Ma Gang feat Champuru Makhenzo, Phantom Steeze, ManT, Sdida & C’BUDA M	South Africa
Daliwonga	Abo Mvelo feat. Mellow And Sleazy & M.J	South Africa
El Grande Toto	Salade Coco	Morroco
Fior 2 Bior	Godo Godo	Cote d’Ivoire
Hewan Gebrewold	Shemuna	Ethiopia
Marwan Moussa (Winner)	Batal 3alam	Egypt
Nomfundo Moh	Phakade Lami feat. ShaSha & Ami Faku	South Africa
Pheelz	Finesse feat. BNXN	Nigeria

Most Promising Artist
Ans-T Crazy (Winner)	10 Na ifari feat. Ibro Gnamet	Guinea
Dafencii	King Alhalaba	Sudan
Fave	Baby Riddim	Nigeria
Frida Amani	Fala Mimi	Tanzania
Jeeba	Lamou Saff	Senegal
Khanyisa	Bheka Mina Ngedwa feat Tsiki XII, Marcus MC and Lady Du	South Africa
Kikimoteleba	Tigini feat. Franglish	Cote d’Ivoire
Lloyiso	Speak	South Africa
Magixx	Love Don’t Cost A Dime feat. Ayra Starr	Nigeria
Zara Williams	Posa feat. C4 Pedro	DRC

African Fans Favourite
Bello Falcao	Dibango Dibanga	Cote d’Ivoire
Ch’cco, Mellow, Sleazy	Nkao Tempela	South Africa
Goya Menor & Nektunez	Ameno Amapiano	Ghana & Nigeria
Joeboy	Sip (Alchohol)	Nigeria
Lojay X Sarz feat. Chris Brown	Monalisa (Remix)	Nigeria
Mavins; Ayra Starr, Boy Spyce, Crayon, LADIPOE, Magixx	Overloading (Overdoes)	Nigeria
Oxlade (Winner)	Ku Lo Sa	Nigeria
The Therapist	Nack	Serria Leone
Young John	Dada	Nigeria
Young Stunna feat. Kabza De Small, DJ Maphorisa	Adiwele	South Africa

Best African DJ
DJ Lito (Winner)	Tick Talk feat. Bebe Cool, Sheilah Gashumba, SlickStuartRoja	Uganda
DJ P2N	Likolo (Remix) feat. Tenor, DJ Amaroula	DRC
DJ Sly King	Ngama Bono	Ghana
DJ Snake	Disco Maghreb	Algeria
DJ Tarico Ft. DJ Consequence	Number One feat. Nelson Tivane, Preck	Mozambique & Nigeria
DJ Yessonia	Ngifuna Wena feat. Boohle	Namibia
DJ Zinhle	Siyabonga feat. Black Motion, Kazba de Small, Nokwazi	South Africa
MAJOR LEAGUE DJz	Bakwa Lah	South Africa
Spinall	Pallazo feat. Asake	Nigeria
Uncle Waffles	Tanzania feat. Tony Duardo Ft. Sino Msolo & Boibizza	Swaziland
Zakes Batwini	Osama feat. Kasango	South Africa

Best African Video
Amine Boumediene	Moustahil	Algeria
Costa Titch	Big Flexa by Costa Titch.	South Africa
DAMMY TWITCH	Woman by Simi.	Nigeria
Director Pink	Nwoke Oma by Chike	Nigeria
Elias Belkader	Disco Maghreb by DJ Snake	Algeria
Maranta Tegegne	Sewasew	Ethopia
Mateo Da Silva	Donnelemoi by TayC	Cameroon
Napephasha	Ghost Kamo Mphela	South Africa
Soolking & Digital Nak	Suavemente by Soolking	Algeria
TG Omori (Winner)	Buga by Kizz Daniel feat. Tekno	Nigeria

Best African Rapper OR Lyricist
A-Reece	Couldn’t Have Said It Better, Pt.3	South Africa
Dafencii feat. Khayyat	King Alhalaba	Sudan
Didi B	Game De Djai	Cote d’Ivoire
Dip Doundou Guiss	Califat	Senegal
Marwan Moussa (Winner)	Batal 3alam	Egypt
Ladipoe feat. Rema	Afro Jigga	Nigeria
LAMB (Loose Kaynon, A-Q, MI, Blaqbonez)	The Last Cypher	Nigeria
Nata	94	Sierra Leone
Nay Wa Mitego	Rais Wa Kitaa	Tanzania
Youssoupha	Amapiano	Cote d’Ivoire

Best Africa Collaboration
Ahmed Saad feat. 3enba & Double Zuksh	Al Moulouk	Egypt
Calema x Zé Felipe	Onde Anda	Sao Tome and Principe/Brazil
Costa Titch feat. C’buda M, Alfa Kat, Banaba Des, Sdida & Man T	Big Flexa	South Africa
Davido feat. focalistic (Winner)	Champion Sound	Nigeria / South Africa
Fireboy feat. Ed Sheeran	Peru (Remix)	Nigeria/Great Britain
Kikimoteleba feat. Franglish	Tigini (Remix)	Cote d’Ivoire/DRC
Kizz Daniel feat. Tekno	Buga	Nigeria
Marioo feat. Jovial	Mi Amour	Tanzania
Mbosso, Costa Titch, Phantom Steeze	Moyo	Tanzania/South Africa
Tiwa Savage feat. Brandy	Somebody’s Son	Nigeria/USA

Best African Band / Duo / Group
Calema & Zé Felipe	Onde Anda	Sao Tome & Principe
Disco Misr, Aziz Maraka	Ahla Wahda	Egypt
Jano Band	Zebnanaw	Ethiopia
Mafikizolo Ft. Simmy	Mamazela	South Africa
MAJOR LEAGUE DJz	BAKWA LAH	South Africa
Ridimz	Shabasiko	Cameroon
The Cavemen ft. Made Kuti (Winner)	Biri	Nigeria
Toofan	Ona	Togo
Umoja Sounds Ft. Ariel Wayz	Happy	Kenya
Wanavokali	What A Time	Kenya

Best African Act In Diaspora (Female)
Aya Nakamura Ft. Damso	Degaine	Mali
Bey T Ft. Boohle	Unanicheza	Kenya
Darkoo Ft Black Sherif	Always	Nigeria
Faouzia (Winner)	RIP, Love	Morocco
Moha K, Marwa Loud	Ghir Ntiya	Morocco
Nata	94	Sierra Leone
Rimon	Feed Me	Eritrea
Ronisia	Melodie	Cape Verde
Shay	DA	DRC
Soraia Ramos	BKBN	Cape Verde

Best African Act In Diaspora (Male)
Calema Ft. Zé Felipe	Onde Anda	Sao Tome & Principe
Dadju	KIng	DRC
Dafencii ft. Khayyat	King Alhalaba	Sudan
DJ Snake	Disco Maghreb	Algeria
Gil Semedo Ft. Calema, Soraia Ramos & Mito Kaskas	Gostu Sabi	Cape Verde
Jae5 Ft Dave, Bnxn	Propeller	Ghana
Ninho	VVS	DRC
Soolking	Suavemente	Algeria
Tion Wayne Ft. Davido & Jae5 (Winner)	Who’s True	Nigeria
Ya Levis	Pardonne Moi	DRC

Best Female Artist in Africa Inspirational Music
Bridget Blue	Woman	Kenya
Chaama & Eljoee	Burakia	Morocco
Diana Hamilton	Awurade Ye(Do it Lord)	Ghana
DJ Zinhle Ft. Black Motion, Kabza De Small & Nokwazi	Siyabonga	South Africa
Irene Robert Ft. Rose Muhando (Winner)	Hainidhuru	Tanzania
Janet Otieno	Siri	Kenya
Makhadzi Ft. Jon Delinger	Zwivhuya	South Africa
Manal	3ari	Morocco
TY Bello Ft. Sinmidele & Ore Macaulay	Amen Amen	Nigeria

Best Male Artist in Africa Inspirational Music
Davido Ft. Sunday Service Choir (Winner)	Stand Strong	Nigeria
Grace Lokwa	Kumama	DRC
Kassmasse	Sesasew	Ethiopia
KS Bloom Ft. Chidinma	C’est Dieu (Remix)	Cote d’Ivoire
Majoos	Jayah	DRC
Masterkraft Ft. Chike	Hosanna	Nigeria
Nathaniel Bassey	See What the Lord Has Done	Nigeria
Noel Nderitu	Waweza	Kenya
Samthing Soweto	Amagents	South Africa
Wave Rhyder	Wa Nkutlwa Na	Lesotho

Best Artist, Duo or Group in African Electro
Asake	Peace Be Unto You	Nigeria
Costa Titch Ft. C’buda M, Alfa Kat, Banaba Des, Sdida & Man T	Big Flexa	South Africa
Davido Ft. Focalistic (Winner)	Champion Sound	Nigeria
DJ Snake	Disco Maghreb	Algeria
DJ Maphorisa & Tyler ICU Ft. Sir Till & Co	Banyana	South Africa
DJ Yessonia Ft. Boohle	Ngifuna Wena	Namibia
Felo Le Tee & Myztro Ft. Daliwonga	66 & Dipatje Tsa Felo	South Africa
Mbosso Ft. Costa Titch & Phantom Steeze	Moyo	Tanzania
Tresor Ft. Kabza De Small and DJ Maphorisa	Makosa	DRC
Zakes Bantwini Ft. Kasango	Osama	South Africa

Best Artist, Duo or Group in African Hip-Hop
Black Sherif	Kwaku the Traveller	Ghana
Blxckie	Your All	South Africa
Cdrik Kodjo	Nyi Nudé	Benin
Darkoo Ft. Black Sherif	Always	Nigeria
Didi B	Tala	Cote d’Ivoire
KikiMoteleba Ft. Franglish	Tigini	Cote d’Ivoire
Marwan Moussa (Winner)	Batal 3alam	Egypt
Nay Wa Mitego	Rais Wa Kitaa	Tanzania
Ninho	Jefe	DRC
Nyashinski Ft. Femi One	Properly	Kenya

Best Artist, Duo or Group in African RnB & Soul
Ahmed basyoni & Hussein Gamal	ElHalawa Di	Egypt
Bridget Blue	Goodbye	Kenya
C4 Pedro	Esta Tudo Bem	Angola
Frida Amani Ft. Mayunga	Tanzania	Tanzania
Lil Jay	Sauce Graine	Cote d’Ivorie
Nomfundo Moh Ft. ShaSha & Ami Faku	Phakade Lami	South Africa
Omah Lay (Winner)	I’m A Mess	Nigeria
Tayc	D O D O	Cameroon
Tiwa Savage, Amaarae	Tales By Moonlight	Nigeria
Ya Levis	Pardonne Moi	DRC

Best Artist, Duo or Group in African Reggae, Ragga, Dancehall
DJ Lito Ft. Bebe Cool x Sheilah Gashumba x SlickStuartRoja	Tick Talk	Uganda
Fave	Baby Riddim	Nigeria
Femi One Ft. King Kaka & Mbithi	Hepi	Kenya
KiDi Ft. Tyga	Touch It(Remix)	Ghana
Navy Kenzo	Manzese	Tanzania
Nutty O	Handipere	Zimbabwe
Rosa Ree	Watatubu	Tanzania
Ruger	Dior	Nigeria
Teddy Afro (Winner)	Naet	Ethiopia
Winky D	Happy Again	Zimbabwe

Best Artist, Duo or Group in African Contemporary
Adekunle Gold Ft. Fatoumata Diawara (Winner)	Born Again	Nigeria
Alikiba	UTU	Tanzania
Brymo	Fura Sara	Nigeria
Fadilee Itulya Ft. Fidq & Taz Goemi	Problem	Tanzania
Fally Ipupa	Bloqué	DRC
Fior 2 Bior	Godo Godo	Cote d’Ivoire
Roga Roga & Extra Musica	Bokoko	DRC
Sidiki Diabate	Diarabi nene bena	Mali
Wally B. Seck ft Viviane	Reugine Tass	Senegal
Wegz	Al bakht	Egypt

Best Artist, Duo or Group in African Jazz
Addis Legesse	Enja	Ethiopia
Elida Almeida, Jimmy P	Mau Menino	Cape Verde
Franck Biyong	Negropolitaine	Cameroon
Gutu Abera (Winner)	Deemi	Ethiopia
Jano Band	Zebnanaw	Ethiopia
Jimmy Dludlu Ft. Rhodalia Silvestre, Dx Nuvunga & Mano Tsotsi	Male Ya Pepa	Mozambique
Kelvin Momo Feat. TBO and JaySax	Funa	South Africa
Somi	Love Tastes Like Strawberries	Rwanda
Thapelo Lekoane	Heritage	South Africa
The Cavemen Ft. Made kuti	Biri	Nigeria

Best Artist, Duo or Group in African Pop
Adekunle Gold Ft. Davido (Winner)	High	Nigeria
Ckay	Emiliana	Nigeria
Kizz Daniel & Tekno	Buga	Nigeria
Kouz1	Magic	Morocco
Matias Damasio	Como Antes	Angola
Pheelz, BNXN	Finesse	Nigeria
Ronisia	Melodie	Cape Verde
Roseline Layo	Donnez Nous Un Peru	Cote d’Ivoire
Soraia Ramos	BKBN	Cape Verde
Tenor Ft. Innoss’B	Mami Wata	Cameroon

Best Artist, Duo or Group in African Rock
Amir Eid	Ana Negm	Egypt
Clayrocksu (Winner)	Amin	Nigeria
Daniel Baron	How to Feel	South Africa
Franck Biyong	Pepe Soup	Cameroon
RASH	FAR BEYOND	Kenya
Reen and Refentse Morake	Skobbejak	South Africa

Best Artiste, Duo or Group in African Traditional
Azaya Ft. Djelykaba Bintou (Winner)	BB La	Guinea
Betty G	Addis Semay	Ethiopia
Flavour	Level	Nigeria
Josey Ft. Bonigo	Zambeleman	Cote d’Ivoire
Lencho gemechu	Saglii	Ethiopia
Manamba Kante	Bhouloun Djouri	Guinea
Oumou Sangare	Wassulu Don	Mali
Rokia Kone & Jacknife Lee	N’yanyan	Mali
Strongbangwaboy	Royalty Ft. Longue Longue, Tzy Panchak	Cameroon
Stewart Sukuma	Ezamany Kim’bedima	Mozambique

Best Artist, Duo or Group in African Dance or Choreography
Ans-T Crazy (Winner)	Pause	Guinea
Costa Titch Ft. C’buda M, Alfa Kat, Banaba Des, Sdida & Man T	Big Flexa	South Africa
Eltee Skhillz	ODG	Nigeria
Kamo Mphela	Ghost	South Africa
Portable X Poco Lee Ft. Olamide	ZaZoo Zehh	Nigeria
Roga Roga & Extra Musica	Bokoko	DRC
Serge Beynaud	C’est Dose	Cote d’Ivoire
Simi	Woman	Nigeria
Spice Diana	Tujooge Ft. Dj Seven	Uganda
Toofan	Ona	Togo

Best Soundtrack Movie / Series / Documentary
Ahmed Saad Ft. 3enba & Double Zuksh	AlMoulouk (Moon Knight)	Egypt
Amarae & Marvel	A Body, A Coffin (Black Panther Wakanda Forever Prologue EP)	Ghana
Amir Eid	Ana Negm (RIVO)	Egypt
Dadju	Ima(From the movie “IMA”)	DRC
Eltee Skhillz	ODG (The Blood Convenant Movie)	Nigeria
Mohamed Osama & Karim Mahmoud (Ahmed Tarik Yahia)	EL GHAZALA RAYE2A (ZEKO)	Egypt
Stephane Legar	Speed Llife (From Sonic 2 Le Film) From Sonic 2 Le Film	Togo
Tems & Marvel (Winner)	No Woman No Cry (Black Panther Wakanda Forever Prologue EP)	Nigeria
Wegz	B3oda Ya Belady(From the film “Captains Of Zaatari”)	Egypt

Best Global Act
Anitta (Winner)	Mon Soleil (By Dadju)	Brazil
Brandy	Somebody’s Son (By Tiwa Savage)	USA
Chris Brown	Call Me Everyday Ft. Wizkid/Monalisa Remix By Lojay X Sarz/Nobody Has to Know Ft. Davido/Diana By Fireboy DML/Time & Affection By Rema	USA
Drake	Fountains Ft. Tems, Tresor	Canada
Ed Sheeran	Peru Remix (By Fireboy DML)/For My Hand (Burna Boy)	Great Britain
Justin Bieber	Essence Remix (By Wizkid)/Attention By Omah Lay	Canada
Maluma	Mama Tetema Ft. Rayvanny	Colombia
PopcaanIt was a breathtaking experience, Sunday night, at the 15-000 capacity Dakar Arena, in Dakar, Senegal, as superstars across the continent clinched trophies at the 8th edition of the All Africa Music Awards (AFRIMA) (www.AFRIMA.org), aka ‘The Teranga Edition’. Broadcast live to over 84 countries around the world, the 8th AFRIMA in Senegal saw superstars like the Nigerian maverick Davido, clinch 3 awards in one night as he emerged winner of the “Best African Collaboration”, “Best Duo or Group in African Electro”, and “Best Male Artiste in African Inspirational Music” categories, respectively. Other continental champions such as Egyptian rapper Marwan Moussa followed closely, clinching two awards for “Best African Rapper/Lyricist,” as well as “Best Duo or Group in African Hip Hop” categories, respectively. Importantly, in the non-voting category, the International Executive Committee bestowed the “Legend Award” for the 8th AFRIMA to three iconic Senegalese veterans including Youssou N’dour, Baaba Maal, and Ismail Lo. All the winners across all the remaining 39 categories for the 8th AFRIMA in Senegal were decided by popular votes from music lovers. The voting period for the 8th AFRIMA began on September 25, 2022 and ended on Friday January 13, 2023. The voting procedure and results were reviewed and collated by an international auditor of great repute, PricewaterhouseCoopers (PwC) – auditors of the Oscars. Find the full list of winners for the 8th AFRIMA below: REGIONAL WINNERS Best Female Artiste in Western Africa Asa Ocean Nigeria Gyakie Something Ghana Josey Ft. Bonigo (Winner) Zambeleman Cote d’Ivoire Manamba Kante Bhouloun Djouri Guinea Oumou Sangare Wassulu Don Mali Simi Woman Nigeria Soraia Ramos BKBN Cape Verde Tems Crazy Tings Nigeria Tiwa Savage Ft. Brandy Somebody’s Son Nigeria Viviane CHIDID Ft. Bass Thioung Sweet Game Senegal Best Male Artiste in Southern Africa A-Reece Couldn’t Have Said It Better, Pt.3 South Africa Blxckie feat A-Reece Sneaky South Africa DJ Tarico Ft. DJ Consequence, Nelson Tivane & Preck Number One Mozambique Gemini Major Ft. Ayra Starr Ooh Lala Malawi Focalistic X Madumane and Mellow & Sleazy feat. DJ Maphorisa 16 Days No Sleep South Africa Kabza De Small Ft. DJ Maphorisa Abalele South Africa Musketeers Ft. Azmo Danko feat. Azmo Namibia Master KG x Wanitwa Mos Ft. Nkosazana Daughter, Basetsana, Obeey Amor Dali Nguwe South Africa Winky D (Winner) Happy Again Zimbabwe Zakes Bantwini Ft. Kasango Osama South Africa Best Female Artiste in Southern Africa DJ Yessonia Ft. Boohle Ngifuna Wena Namibia DJ Zinhle Ft. Black Motion, Kabza De Small & Nokwazi Siyabonga South Africa Kamo Mphela Ghost South Africa Makhadzi (Winner) Mama South Africa Nadia Nakai Ft. Lucasraps Not The Same South Africa Nomfundo Moh Ft. ShaSha & Ami Faku Phakade Lami South Africa ShaSha Ft. Kamo Mphela & Felo Le Tee iPiano Zimbabwe Simmy We Were Here South Africa Tamy Moyo Sare Zimbabwe Uncle Waffles & Tony Duardo Ft. Sino Msolo & Boibizza Tanzania South Africa Best Male Artiste in Northern Africa A.L.A (Winner) 30 Tunisia Ali Loka Matkhafesh Yamma Egypt Ahmed Saad Ft. 3enba & Double Zuksh AlMoulouk Egypt DJ Snake Disco Maghreb Algeria Draganov Chichi Morocco El Grande Toto Salade Coco Morocco Marwan Moussa Batal 3alam Egypt Snor Kasseta Morocco Soolking Suavemente Algeria Wegz Albakht Egypt Best Female Artiste in Northern Africa Faouzia (Winner) RIP Love Morocco Jaylann Oui Oui Morocco Kenza Morsli Ft. DJ Adel Moustahil Algeria Lyna Mahyem Mal De Toi Algeria Manal Makhelaw Magalou Morocco Marwa Loud & Moha K Ghir Ntiya Morocco Ruby Namet Nenna Egypt Rym Stylo Warqa Morocco Best Male Artiste in Central Africa C4 Pedro Posa Angola Dadju Ambassadeur DRC Fally Ipupa (Winner) Bloqué DRC Innoss’B Mortel-06 DRC Gaz Mawete 500 DRC Matias Damasio Como Antes Angola Ninho Jefe DRC Roga Roga & Extra Musica Bokoko DRC Tayc Dodo Cameroon Tenor Ft. Innoss’B Mami Wata Cameroon Best Male Artiste in Eastern Africa Addis Legesse Enja Ethiopia Bien (& Aaron Rimbui) Bald Men Anthem Kenya Diamond Platnumz Ft. Zuchu Mtasubiri Tanzania Eddy Kenzo Songa Uganda Kassmasse (Winner) Sewasew Ethiopia King Saha Zakayo Uganda Marioo Ft. Jovial Mi Amor Tanzania Mbosso Ft. Costa Titch & Phantom Steeze Moyo Tanzania Nyashinski Ft. Femi One Properly Kenya Rayvanny Ft. Vjollca Pele Pele Tanzania Best Female Artiste in Eastern Africa Betty G Addis Semay Ethiopia Frida Amani Fala Mimi Tanzania Hewan Gebrewold Shemuna Ethiopia Muthaka (Winner) Sorry Kenya Nandy Siwezi Tanzania Nikita Kering Last Name Kenya Rosa Ree Watatubu Tanzania Spice Diana Ft. DJ Seven Tujuoge Uganda Tanasha Donna Maradonna Kenya Zuchu Ft. Bontle Smith & Tyler Kitu Tanzania CONTINENTAL WINNER Song of the year Black Sherif Kwaku The Traveller Ghana Burna Boy Last Last Nigeria Costa Titch feat. Banaba Des, Alfa Kat, Man T, Sdida, C’Buda M Big Flexa South Africa Dadju Ambassaduer DRC Didi B (Winner) Tala Cote d’Ivoire DJ Snake Disco Maghreb Algeria Fireboy DML feat. Ed Sheeran Peru (Remix) NIgeria Kizz Daniel feat. Tekno Buga Nigeria Marioo feat. Jovial Mi Amor Tanzania Rema Calm Down Nigeria Soolking Suavemente Algeria Wegz Elbakht Egypt Album of the year Brymo 9: Esan Nigeria Burna Boy (Winner) Love Damini Nigeria Dadju Cullilan DRC Diamond Platnumz First of All Tanzania Didi B History Cote d’Ivoire Kabza De Small KOA II South Africa Nomfundo Moh Amagama South Africa Oumou Sangare Timbuktu Mali Soolking Sans Visa Algeria Rema Raves & Roses Nigeria Producer of the year C4 Pedro Posa C4 Pedro Angola CKay & BMH Emiliana by CKay Nigeria Kimambobeats Mi Amor by Marioo feat. Jovial Tanzania Nyadjiko & Dadju Ambassaduer by Dadju DRC Rahal Elbakht by Wegz Egypt Reward Beats Buga by Kizz Daniel feat. Tekno Nigeria Sdida & Man T Big Flexa by Costa Titch South Africa Serge Beynaud C’est Dose by Serge Beynaud Cote d’Ivoire Shizzi (Winner) Peru (Remix) by Fireboy DML Nigeria Stan-E Kibulu & William Grigahcine Disco Magrehb by DJ Snake Algeria A Artist of the Year Burna Boy (Winner) Last Last Nigeria CKay Emiliana Nigeria Dadju Ambassaduer DRC Diamond Platnumz feat. Zuchu Mtasubiri Tanzania Fireboy DML feat. Ed Sheeran Peru (Remix) Nigeria Kabza De Small feat. DJ Maphorisa, Ami Faku Asibe Happy South Africa Manal Makhelaw Magalou Morroco Tiwa Savage feat. Brandy Somebody’s Son Nigeria Wegz Elbakht Egypt Zakes Batwini feat. Kasango Osama South Africa Songwriter of the Year Bridget Blue & Jibiril Blessing Woman by Bridget Blue Kenya Daniel Baron How To Feel by Daniel Baron South Africa Iba One (Winner) Hommage a mes parents Mali Lloyiso Mandlovandile Gigana, Luke Goliath Seasons by Lloyiso South Africa Martin Obudho, Muthaka Sorry Kenya Matias Damasio Como Antes Angola Mordecai ‘Dex’ Mwini Reason by Wanavokali Ft. H_art the Band Kenya Olawale Olofo’ro Fura Sára by Brymo Nigeria Rokia Kone, Garret Lee Kurunba Mali Sidy Diop Ngalam Senegal Winner Breakout Breakout Artist of the Year Asake (Winner) Peace Be Unto You (PBUY) Nigeria Camidoh Sugarcane (Remix) feat. Darkoo, King Promise, Mayorkun Ghana Costa Titch Ma Gang feat Champuru Makhenzo, Phantom Steeze, ManT, Sdida & C’BUDA M South Africa Daliwonga Abo Mvelo feat. Mellow And Sleazy & M.J South Africa El Grande Toto Salade Coco Morroco Fior 2 Bior Godo Godo Cote d’Ivoire Hewan Gebrewold Shemuna Ethiopia Marwan Moussa (Winner) Batal 3alam Egypt Nomfundo Moh Phakade Lami feat. ShaSha & Ami Faku South Africa Pheelz Finesse feat. BNXN Nigeria Most Promising Artist Ans-T Crazy (Winner) 10 Na ifari feat. Ibro Gnamet Guinea Dafencii King Alhalaba Sudan Fave Baby Riddim Nigeria Frida Amani Fala Mimi Tanzania Jeeba Lamou Saff Senegal Khanyisa Bheka Mina Ngedwa feat Tsiki XII, Marcus MC and Lady Du South Africa Kikimoteleba Tigini feat. Franglish Cote d’Ivoire Lloyiso Speak South Africa Magixx Love Don’t Cost A Dime feat. Ayra Starr Nigeria Zara Williams Posa feat. C4 Pedro DRC African Fans Favourite Bello Falcao Dibango Dibanga Cote d’Ivoire Ch’cco, Mellow, Sleazy Nkao Tempela South Africa Goya Menor & Nektunez Ameno Amapiano Ghana & Nigeria Joeboy Sip (Alchohol) Nigeria Lojay X Sarz feat. Chris Brown Monalisa (Remix) Nigeria Mavins; Ayra Starr, Boy Spyce, Crayon, LADIPOE, Magixx Overloading (Overdoes) Nigeria Oxlade (Winner) Ku Lo Sa Nigeria The Therapist Nack Serria Leone Young John Dada Nigeria Young Stunna feat. Kabza De Small, DJ Maphorisa Adiwele South Africa Best African DJ DJ Lito (Winner) Tick Talk feat. Bebe Cool, Sheilah Gashumba, SlickStuartRoja Uganda DJ P2N Likolo (Remix) feat. Tenor, DJ Amaroula DRC DJ Sly King Ngama Bono Ghana DJ Snake Disco Maghreb Algeria DJ Tarico Ft. DJ Consequence Number One feat. Nelson Tivane, Preck Mozambique & Nigeria DJ Yessonia Ngifuna Wena feat. Boohle Namibia DJ Zinhle Siyabonga feat. Black Motion, Kazba de Small, Nokwazi South Africa MAJOR LEAGUE DJz Bakwa Lah South Africa Spinall Pallazo feat. Asake Nigeria Uncle Waffles Tanzania feat. Tony Duardo Ft. Sino Msolo & Boibizza Swaziland Zakes Batwini Osama feat. Kasango South Africa Best African Video Amine Boumediene Moustahil Algeria Costa Titch Big Flexa by Costa Titch. South Africa DAMMY TWITCH Woman by Simi. Nigeria Director Pink Nwoke Oma by Chike Nigeria Elias Belkader Disco Maghreb by DJ Snake Algeria Maranta Tegegne Sewasew Ethopia Mateo Da Silva Donnelemoi by TayC Cameroon Napephasha Ghost Kamo Mphela South Africa Soolking & Digital Nak Suavemente by Soolking Algeria TG Omori (Winner) Buga by Kizz Daniel feat. Tekno Nigeria Best African Rapper OR Lyricist A-Reece Couldn’t Have Said It Better, Pt.3 South Africa Dafencii feat. Khayyat King Alhalaba Sudan Didi B Game De Djai Cote d’Ivoire Dip Doundou Guiss Califat Senegal Marwan Moussa (Winner) Batal 3alam Egypt Ladipoe feat. Rema Afro Jigga Nigeria LAMB (Loose Kaynon, A-Q, MI, Blaqbonez) The Last Cypher Nigeria Nata 94 Sierra Leone Nay Wa Mitego Rais Wa Kitaa Tanzania Youssoupha Amapiano Cote d’Ivoire Best Africa Collaboration Ahmed Saad feat. 3enba & Double Zuksh Al Moulouk Egypt Calema x Zé Felipe Onde Anda Sao Tome and Principe/Brazil Costa Titch feat. C’buda M, Alfa Kat, Banaba Des, Sdida & Man T Big Flexa South Africa Davido feat. focalistic (Winner) Champion Sound Nigeria / South Africa Fireboy feat. Ed Sheeran Peru (Remix) Nigeria/Great Britain Kikimoteleba feat. Franglish Tigini (Remix) Cote d’Ivoire/DRC Kizz Daniel feat. Tekno Buga Nigeria Marioo feat. Jovial Mi Amour Tanzania Mbosso, Costa Titch, Phantom Steeze Moyo Tanzania/South Africa Tiwa Savage feat. Brandy Somebody’s Son Nigeria/USA Best African Band / Duo / Group Calema & Zé Felipe Onde Anda Sao Tome & Principe Disco Misr, Aziz Maraka Ahla Wahda Egypt Jano Band Zebnanaw Ethiopia Mafikizolo Ft. Simmy Mamazela South Africa MAJOR LEAGUE DJz BAKWA LAH South Africa Ridimz Shabasiko Cameroon The Cavemen ft. Made Kuti (Winner) Biri Nigeria Toofan Ona Togo Umoja Sounds Ft. Ariel Wayz Happy Kenya Wanavokali What A Time Kenya Best African Act In Diaspora (Female) Aya Nakamura Ft. Damso Degaine Mali Bey T Ft. Boohle Unanicheza Kenya Darkoo Ft Black Sherif Always Nigeria Faouzia (Winner) RIP, Love Morocco Moha K, Marwa Loud Ghir Ntiya Morocco Nata 94 Sierra Leone Rimon Feed Me Eritrea Ronisia Melodie Cape Verde Shay DA DRC Soraia Ramos BKBN Cape Verde Best African Act In Diaspora (Male) Calema Ft. Zé Felipe Onde Anda Sao Tome & Principe Dadju KIng DRC Dafencii ft. Khayyat King Alhalaba Sudan DJ Snake Disco Maghreb Algeria Gil Semedo Ft. Calema, Soraia Ramos & Mito Kaskas Gostu Sabi Cape Verde Jae5 Ft Dave, Bnxn Propeller Ghana Ninho VVS DRC Soolking Suavemente Algeria Tion Wayne Ft. Davido & Jae5 (Winner) Who’s True Nigeria Ya Levis Pardonne Moi DRC Best Female Artist in Africa Inspirational Music Bridget Blue Woman Kenya Chaama & Eljoee Burakia Morocco Diana Hamilton Awurade Ye(Do it Lord) Ghana DJ Zinhle Ft. Black Motion, Kabza De Small & Nokwazi Siyabonga South Africa Irene Robert Ft. Rose Muhando (Winner) Hainidhuru Tanzania Janet Otieno Siri Kenya Makhadzi Ft. Jon Delinger Zwivhuya South Africa Manal 3ari Morocco TY Bello Ft. Sinmidele & Ore Macaulay Amen Amen Nigeria Best Male Artist in Africa Inspirational Music Davido Ft. Sunday Service Choir (Winner) Stand Strong Nigeria Grace Lokwa Kumama DRC Kassmasse Sesasew Ethiopia KS Bloom Ft. Chidinma C’est Dieu (Remix) Cote d’Ivoire Majoos Jayah DRC Masterkraft Ft. Chike Hosanna Nigeria Nathaniel Bassey See What the Lord Has Done Nigeria Noel Nderitu Waweza Kenya Samthing Soweto Amagents South Africa Wave Rhyder Wa Nkutlwa Na Lesotho Best Artist, Duo or Group in African Electro Asake Peace Be Unto You Nigeria Costa Titch Ft. C’buda M, Alfa Kat, Banaba Des, Sdida & Man T Big Flexa South Africa Davido Ft. Focalistic (Winner) Champion Sound Nigeria DJ Snake Disco Maghreb Algeria DJ Maphorisa & Tyler ICU Ft. Sir Till & Co Banyana South Africa DJ Yessonia Ft. Boohle Ngifuna Wena Namibia Felo Le Tee & Myztro Ft. Daliwonga 66 & Dipatje Tsa Felo South Africa Mbosso Ft. Costa Titch & Phantom Steeze Moyo Tanzania Tresor Ft. Kabza De Small and DJ Maphorisa Makosa DRC Zakes Bantwini Ft. Kasango Osama South Africa Best Artist, Duo or Group in African Hip-Hop Black Sherif Kwaku the Traveller Ghana Blxckie Your All South Africa Cdrik Kodjo Nyi Nudé Benin Darkoo Ft. Black Sherif Always Nigeria Didi B Tala Cote d’Ivoire KikiMoteleba Ft. Franglish Tigini Cote d’Ivoire Marwan Moussa (Winner) Batal 3alam Egypt Nay Wa Mitego Rais Wa Kitaa Tanzania Ninho Jefe DRC Nyashinski Ft. Femi One Properly Kenya Best Artist, Duo or Group in African RnB & Soul Ahmed basyoni & Hussein Gamal ElHalawa Di Egypt Bridget Blue Goodbye Kenya C4 Pedro Esta Tudo Bem Angola Frida Amani Ft. Mayunga Tanzania Tanzania Lil Jay Sauce Graine Cote d’Ivorie Nomfundo Moh Ft. ShaSha & Ami Faku Phakade Lami South Africa Omah Lay (Winner) I’m A Mess Nigeria Tayc D O D O Cameroon Tiwa Savage, Amaarae Tales By Moonlight Nigeria Ya Levis Pardonne Moi DRC Best Artist, Duo or Group in African Reggae, Ragga, Dancehall DJ Lito Ft. Bebe Cool x Sheilah Gashumba x SlickStuartRoja Tick Talk Uganda Fave Baby Riddim Nigeria Femi One Ft. King Kaka & Mbithi Hepi Kenya KiDi Ft. Tyga Touch It(Remix) Ghana Navy Kenzo Manzese Tanzania Nutty O Handipere Zimbabwe Rosa Ree Watatubu Tanzania Ruger Dior Nigeria Teddy Afro (Winner) Naet Ethiopia Winky D Happy Again Zimbabwe Best Artist, Duo or Group in African Contemporary Adekunle Gold Ft. Fatoumata Diawara (Winner) Born Again Nigeria Alikiba UTU Tanzania Brymo Fura Sara Nigeria Fadilee Itulya Ft. Fidq & Taz Goemi Problem Tanzania Fally Ipupa Bloqué DRC Fior 2 Bior Godo Godo Cote d’Ivoire Roga Roga & Extra Musica Bokoko DRC Sidiki Diabate Diarabi nene bena Mali Wally B. Seck ft Viviane Reugine Tass Senegal Wegz Al bakht Egypt Best Artist, Duo or Group in African Jazz Addis Legesse Enja Ethiopia Elida Almeida, Jimmy P Mau Menino Cape Verde Franck Biyong Negropolitaine Cameroon Gutu Abera (Winner) Deemi Ethiopia Jano Band Zebnanaw Ethiopia Jimmy Dludlu Ft. Rhodalia Silvestre, Dx Nuvunga & Mano Tsotsi Male Ya Pepa Mozambique Kelvin Momo Feat. TBO and JaySax Funa South Africa Somi Love Tastes Like Strawberries Rwanda Thapelo Lekoane Heritage South Africa The Cavemen Ft. Made kuti Biri Nigeria Best Artist, Duo or Group in African Pop Adekunle Gold Ft. Davido (Winner) High Nigeria Ckay Emiliana Nigeria Kizz Daniel & Tekno Buga Nigeria Kouz1 Magic Morocco Matias Damasio Como Antes Angola Pheelz, BNXN Finesse Nigeria Ronisia Melodie Cape Verde Roseline Layo Donnez Nous Un Peru Cote d’Ivoire Soraia Ramos BKBN Cape Verde Tenor Ft. Innoss’B Mami Wata Cameroon Best Artist, Duo or Group in African Rock Amir Eid Ana Negm Egypt Clayrocksu (Winner) Amin Nigeria Daniel Baron How to Feel South Africa Franck Biyong Pepe Soup Cameroon RASH FAR BEYOND Kenya Reen and Refentse Morake Skobbejak South Africa Best Artiste, Duo or Group in African Traditional Azaya Ft. Djelykaba Bintou (Winner) BB La Guinea Betty G Addis Semay Ethiopia Flavour Level Nigeria Josey Ft. Bonigo Zambeleman Cote d’Ivoire Lencho gemechu Saglii Ethiopia Manamba Kante Bhouloun Djouri Guinea Oumou Sangare Wassulu Don Mali Rokia Kone & Jacknife Lee N’yanyan Mali Strongbangwaboy Royalty Ft. Longue Longue, Tzy Panchak Cameroon Stewart Sukuma Ezamany Kim’bedima Mozambique Best Artist, Duo or Group in African Dance or Choreography Ans-T Crazy (Winner) Pause Guinea Costa Titch Ft. C’buda M, Alfa Kat, Banaba Des, Sdida & Man T Big Flexa South Africa Eltee Skhillz ODG Nigeria Kamo Mphela Ghost South Africa Portable X Poco Lee Ft. Olamide ZaZoo Zehh Nigeria Roga Roga & Extra Musica Bokoko DRC Serge Beynaud C’est Dose Cote d’Ivoire Simi Woman Nigeria Spice Diana Tujooge Ft. Dj Seven Uganda Toofan Ona Togo Best Soundtrack Movie / Series / Documentary Ahmed Saad Ft. 3enba & Double Zuksh AlMoulouk (Moon Knight) Egypt Amarae & Marvel A Body, A Coffin (Black Panther Wakanda Forever Prologue EP) Ghana Amir Eid Ana Negm (RIVO) Egypt Dadju Ima(From the movie “IMA”) DRC Eltee Skhillz ODG (The Blood Convenant Movie) Nigeria Mohamed Osama & Karim Mahmoud (Ahmed Tarik Yahia) EL GHAZALA RAYE2A (ZEKO) Egypt Stephane Legar Speed Llife (From Sonic 2 Le Film) From Sonic 2 Le Film Togo Tems & Marvel (Winner) No Woman No Cry (Black Panther Wakanda Forever Prologue EP) Nigeria Wegz B3oda Ya Belady(From the film “Captains Of Zaatari”) Egypt Best Global Act Anitta (Winner) Mon Soleil (By Dadju) Brazil Brandy Somebody’s Son (By Tiwa Savage) USA Chris Brown Call Me Everyday Ft. Wizkid/Monalisa Remix By Lojay X Sarz/Nobody Has to Know Ft. Davido/Diana By Fireboy DML/Time & Affection By Rema USA Drake Fountains Ft. Tems, Tresor Canada Ed Sheeran Peru Remix (By Fireboy DML)/For My Hand (Burna Boy) Great Britain Justin Bieber Essence Remix (By Wizkid)/Attention By Omah Lay Canada Maluma Mama Tetema Ft. Rayvanny Colombia Popcaan Toni-Ann Singh (By Burna Boy) Jamaican Tyga Touch it Remix (By KiDi) USA Vitaa Prends Ma Main (By Maitre Gims & Vitaa) France African music lovers are encouraged to keep up with updates and trends ahead of the 9th AFRIMA, which will be held later this year. Kindly visit the AFRIMA website at www.AFRIMA.org and turn on notifications on social media platforms (IG/TikTok – (https://bit.ly/3AjSojU; Facebook – https://bit.ly/3TH2y4T; Twitter – https://bit.ly/3X5UvBG; LinkedIn – AFRIMA). In partnership with the African Union Commission, AFRIMA is the pinnacle of African music globally.	Toni-Ann Singh (By Burna Boy)	Jamaican
Tyga	Touch it Remix (By KiDi)	USA
Vitaa	Prends Ma Main (By Maitre Gims & Vitaa)	France

In partnership with the African Union Commission, AFRIMA is the pinnacle of African music globally.

January 22, 2023

Feature- FirstBank DECEMBERISSAVYBE: If your December is not Vybing, You ain’t in December

by Bolaji Israel

In Nigeria, the first day of December ushers in the advent of the festive season which runs through the month progressively till early January when businesses and official duties resume fully again. December, in the world’s most populous black nation, is characterised, with fascinating scenery, shops, streets, offices and homes getting decorated with twinkling lights and dazzling ornaments.

The month also welcomes the religious festivities of Christmas, the biggest celebration for Christians globally which takes place just a week before the New Year rolls in amidst a celebration unmatched by any other from the rest of the year. The season is generally enveloped by festive concerts, feasts, celebrations, carnivals, musical shows, colourful decorations and family reunions.

For almost everyone, it’s a time to merry with friends and family, attend celebratory events, give and accept gifts, enjoy entertainment and feast together. December is such a big deal in Nigeria and the people know just how to savour the moments well. Interestingly, the celebration is not limited as it cuts across all classes and shades irrespective of social status, religion, personality or age – the rich, poor, young, old, cool and radicals. It’s usually a time everyone earnestly awaits for fun, merrymaking and relaxation, mentally and physically. In fact, to get ample time for merry making, employees in Nigeria push hard in offices to get annual leave approvals for the period.

Another key, exciting hallmark of the festive season is the homecoming visits of Nigerians who have travelled abroad for greener pastures, a trend popularly called ‘Japa’ in local parlance. It’s a common belief that the Nigerian spirit is a hustling one, and no distance is too large to scare a Nigerian from a potential source of income, be it the journey from the remotest village to Lagos, or from there to the farthest corners of the world. The December period thus presents an opportunity to reunite families.

The returnees constitute an essential ‘life of the party’ as they hit the country ready to visit places, mingle and bond, to the admiration and embrace of peers and family members. It’s always a great period for the returnees and their loved ones to create great memories, spending time, going round town for great entertainment and having fun together.

Their presence also commands attention and adds colour to village and town hall meetings, community projects and social gatherings, especially wedding parties, as well as other family functions deliberately fixed around the season to court the beloved presence of the “I just got backs” who bask endlessly in the euphoria.

First Bank of Nigeria Limited as a company with the mantra of being woven into the fabrics of society has continued to demonstrate its understanding of the uniqueness and essence of the festive season with its consistent support for same through the ‘December Is a vybe’ campaign.

Unfortunately, the Nigerian economy has struggled sluggishly for some time with attendant harsh impact on individual and household finances and sliding purchasing power. This gets worsened by the galloping inflation, increasing cost of living and the sky rocketing price of premium motor spirits (PMS) locally called petrol.

Yet, the average Nigerian craves for great fun and quality entertainment during the Yuletide season. So, the December festivities come as added weight with tickets as high as N70K for A-list musical acts like Asake, Kizz Daniel, Burna Boy, Davido, Wizkid and others.

To throw off the weight, the December Is a vybe campaign offers free VIP tickets from FirstBank to Nigerians for access to coveted A-list musical concerts, opera, comedy shows, stage plays, dance and other genres of entertainment throughout the festive season to assure maximum pleasure.

Folake Ani-Mumuney, FirstBank Global Head, Marketing and Corporate Communications said, the premier financial institution which has operated in Nigeria for over 125 years deliberately orchestrated the campaign to create platforms for Nigerians at home and those returning from abroad to enjoy entertainment, bond well and enjoy the best of the festive season together after a period of separation in pursuit of excellence and success.

“Through ‘December Is a vybe’, FirstBank has always brought Nigerians the best exciting, fun-filled, memorable experience in December with the sponsorship of concerts, creative arts; food Fiesta; fashion etc and it’s set again with a bang in 2022 ready to enable people relive the experience and live their dreams, ” she stated.

She noted that the 2022 edition offers fresh opportunities and platforms for yet another memorable Homecoming experience this December for Nigerians visiting from abroad; wedding celebrants; friends and family reunions. FirstBank ‘December Is a vybe’ offers the returnees a good opportunity to reunite and enjoy premium entertainment with family and friends.

She explained: “The programme has not slowed down since it kicked off. We supported Waka the Musical in 2017 which was also taken to Abuja in 2018. We gave Nigerians premium access to Davido show amongst others in 2017, Burna Boy in 2018, Future in 2019, Davido and Burna in 2021 and for 2022, we will start with VIP access to Kizz Daniel’s show, followed by many more.

The foremost banking giant has in recent years made December quite memorable. From the exciting Alternative Sound 4.0, held at Terra Culture on 5 December, 2019 to the memorable Cardi B live in Lagos by Livespot Concert on 7 December 2019 and the unforgettable “An Evening with FBNHoldings” held on 13 December, 2019 to the pleasure overload of Island Block Party at Oniru Lagos on 14 December, lucky customers and followers of the Bank’s social media handles were given free tickets to have loads of fun!

Also, in the bouquet of fun extravaganza was Teni – The Billionaire Experience musical concert held at Eko Hotel on Monday, 16 December 2019 which had many thrilled to the finest of tunes by the Billionaire crooner and other guest artistes present.

The annual Nativeland music festival at Muri Okunola Park was another fun spot which has since its inauguration in 2016, featured breathtaking performances by A-list artistes.

Youth and teenage fashionistas were not left out; as with Street Souk, they had a feel of current trends and creativity in the fashion industry. The event held on 18 December 2019. For those keen on getting the best and latest designs, wears and fabrics in fashion, the African Fashion Week Nigeria was another port of call. The event which held 20 – 21 December, 2019 attracted leading players in the fashion industry and deepened the fashion appetite and interest of participants.

Building into Christmas was Flytime Rhythm Unplugged, which started on 20 December at the Eko Hotel and Suites. The 5-day music festival had performances from leading artistes in the country. Olamide, Burna Boy, Tiwa Savage, MI, Ycee, Patoranking, Mayorkun, Teni, Zlatan, Joeboy, Fireboy, B Red, Tolani, Jeff Akoh, Oluwadamilola thrilled fun lovers to the best of charts topping tunes not just in Nigeria but the continent. On the wheels of steel was DJ Neptune, DJ Consequence, DJ Obi, and DJ Cuppy.

Kizz Daniel’s Toro concert on 26 December 2019 and Tu Face’s musical show on 28 December built up to the wrap-up of the list of December events with Future, the American rap music sensational performance live in Lagos.

The Future Live in Concert held on 29 December 2019 at the Eko hotel. The 80s boy band, New Edition performance at the FlyTime Music Festival in Lagos was also electrifying with Burna Boy Live, Davido Live and many more in action!

For plays, the December Issavybe train featured sponsorships of Moremi and Oba Eshugbayi plays which focused on highlighted history of Lagos: the struggle over water tax imposed by the British on the people of Lagos and the expulsion of Oba Esugbayi, who stood against tax, to Abeokuta. The play was from the stable of Joseph Edgar of the iconic Duke of Shomolu Production.

Two lucky fans, Tina Ediale and Timilehin Anibaba, amongst others got to see their favourite star Davido Live in Concert; another winner, Azeez Animashaun couldn’t believe his luck when he got a VIP Rhythm Unplugged ticket while some got special treat watching ace actress, Omotola Jalade Ekeinde as Esumirin in Moremi The Musical. Social media followers also scored invitation to parties including Island Block Party, All Black Everything; conferences Golas Grit Grind 2.0; festivals: Native Land, Palmwine Festival; and pop-up sales: Mente de Moda.”

For the 2022 campaign, FirstBank says it will start the festive season with VIP access to rave of the moment, Kizz Daniel’s show. Kizz is so loved right now and many Nigerians especially women can’t seem to get enough of his monster hit, Cough (Odoyewu). He also has many songs that will make his show a delight any day, including Buga, Lie, No Wahala, Oshe, Yeba, One Ticket, Woju, Laye, Jaho, Sofa and many others. With First Bank, December promises to be an awesome experience!

December 7, 2022
Friends rain money on Davido as superstar opens ALAT account

Nigerians continue to show brand love for Nigeria’s leading digital-driven financial institution, Wema Bank, with music super star, Davido being the latest to identify with the bank.

Ahead of his 29th birthday on Friday, November 19, the global music star opened a Wema Bank account and asked people to donate.

“If you know I’ve given you a hit song…send me money… una know una selves ooo,” he initially wrote on Instagram before adding his account details, “David Adeleke, Wema Bank Account Number: 0123044967.”

Less than 24 hours after his post, friends and fans started dropping money into the account, with N57 million donated as at 3:50pm on Wednesday.

The development has sent Nigeria’s social media agog, with tweeps and others commenting on Davido’s bold move and affirming that contrary to insinuations, Wema Bank is indeed a youth-centric bank and not just for old people.

November 17, 2021
Spotify Showcases African Artists Impacting the Global Stage
…Burna Boy, WizKid and Mr. Eazi are the most streamed artists outside of Nigeria

Music has always been at the core of African tradition, weaving a rich narrative that showcases the variety of cultures and influences across the continent. Marking pivotal moments in Africa’s history, music has provided the backdrop to progress, evolving from songs of freedom to songs of expression.

While the annual commemoration of Africa Day is an opportunity to celebrate the strides that the continent has made, it’s also a chance to address some of the challenges that it continues to face. In a similar vein, the impact of African influence on the global music scene has also been a journey.

With exciting collaborations taking place and access to a broader audience, African creators now have more opportunities than ever before to discover new audiences and have their unique voices heard.

To mark Africa Day Spotify took a look at the top streamed artists globally from the African continent. With fans from London to Paris and Amsterdam to Sydney streaming their music via Spotify, it’s not surprising that popular Nigerian singer and songwriter, Burna Boy, takes the top spot.

Africa’s diverse music landscape with its distinctive genres continues to give rise to musical collaborations both on the continent and abroad. Burna Boy has used his particular sound to drive successful collabs including ‘Loved By You (feat. Burna Boy)’ with Justin Bieber and ‘Location (feat. Burna Boy)’ with British rapper Dave. Over the past 90 days (March – May 2021), ‘Loved By You (feat. Burna Boy)’ has amassed over 31 million streams, globally.

Similarly, the phenomenal global success of Master KG’s hit Jerusalema (feat. Nomcebo Zikode), which led to an Afrobeats inspired remix featuring Burna Boy, garnered over 43 million streams, globally over the last 90 days (March – May 2021). African artists are not just featuring on the global stage they are owning it.

“Spotify has always celebrated Africa’s abundance of talent and diversity. Now with Spotify’s presence across Africa, we will continue to use the power of the platform to amplify African creators to a global audience. This serves to offer artists even more opportunity to further strengthen their connection to their audiences as well as drive the discovery of their music to new audiences which, for us, is an integral part of the user’s listening experience. says Phiona Okumu, Head of Music, Sub-Saharan Africa.

Spotify continues to drive initiatives that support African creators including, promoting key curated, flagship playlists such as African Heat, AmaPiano Grooves, RADAR Africa, and most recently, Gengetone Fire, which has driven further discovery and celebration of African influence. Spotify also houses the Afrohub platform that promotes and brings to the surface culturally diverse music to users around the world.

The expansion of RADAR – Spotify’s global artists program that supports artists along every step of their music journey – has been instrumental in promoting talent from across the continent. To date RADAR Africa has welcomed several creators including, Elaine, rapper Willy Cardiac, Nigerian singer-songwriter Tems and AmaPiano hitmaker Focalistic (who also featured extensively in Spotify’s recent African Heat campaign) to the roster of Africa’s RADAR artists.

These young artists all have been influenced by the sounds of Africa with Focalistic listing South Africa’s classic Bacardi house music as the music he grew up on that continues to influence his expressive AmaPiano. Focalistic also names top Nigerian producer, Fresh as one of his biggest African influencers.

As Spotify continues to give listeners across the continent streaming access to the best African and international audio continent, it will continue to drive education around Spotify for Artists, a powerful free tool that artists are encouraged to make use of to better understand and build their audience and gain insight on how to best promote themselves. This, together with the expertise of Spotify’s music team and all the platforms’ initiatives will ensure that Spotify remains an instrumental vehicle for African creators looking to feature on a global stage.

Additionally, kicking off on 24 May and running during the week of Africa Day, there will be an African takeover of Spotify’s Global X playlist. The playlist will spotlight Africa’s biggest artists across regions and on each day, the playlist cover will be dedicated to artists including Lady Du (SA), Davido (NG), Sarkodie (GH), Sauti Sol (KE), ElGrandeToto (MR), Mohammed Ramadan (EG) and Diamond Platinumz (TZ). The Global X playlist is a key part of Spotify’s Global Cultures Initiative that promotes culturally diverse music from around the world.

The top streamed African artists globally (March – May 2021)
1. Burna Boy
2. Aya Nakamura
3. Seether
4. Wizkid
5. Master KG
The top streamed tracks by African artists globally (March – May 2021)
The top streamed Nigerian artists outside of Nigeria (March – May 2021)
1. Burna Boy
2. WizKid
3. Mr Eazi
4. Rema
5. DaVido
6. Kizz Daniel
7. Omah Lay
8. VanJess
9. Yemi Alade
10. Olamide
The top streamed tracks by Nigerian artists outside of Nigeria (March – May 2021)
May 21, 2021
Davido set to Host his Debut Twitter Space today

Twitter has announced a special partnership with David “Davido” Adeleke, which will see the incredibly talented musician host his first Twitter Space to celebrate the 10^th anniversary of his first single and presence in the Nigerian music industry. The Space will take place on Friday, 14^th May 2021 at 6:00pm (WAT), and will be co-hosted by fellow musician and friend, Adekunle “Mayorkun” Mayowa Emmanuel.

The partnership has also seen Twitter launch two custom emojis triggered by the hashtags: #DavidoAt10, #TheBaddest10years, #OBOis10, and #Echoke, a popular term coined by the hitmaker himself. On Friday, during the Twitter Space, “OBO” as he is popularly called will engage and answer fan questions and pinning the best tweets to the Space.

Davido is not only one of the biggest and most celebrated musicians in Africa, he is also one of the most followed Nigerian users and mentioned account holders on Twitter.

Davido’s Twitter Space will enable his fans to connect with him on a new personal level through a live audio conversation for the very first time. Spaces encourages and unlocks real and open conversations and discussions with authenticity and nuance, depth and power than only the human voice can bring. It allows for big discussions and intimacy, which allows users to build stronger and more valuable connections with thousands of listeners all over the world.

The Twitter space event will feature fellow record label mate, Mayorkun, Davido’s manager, Asa Asika and DMW’s Creative Director, Black Tycoone.

How Spaces work

On Twitter for iOS and Android, when someone you follow starts or speaks in a Space, it’ll appear at the top of your timeline as a purple bubble for as long as it’s live. When you join a Space as a listener, you can react to what you hear with emojis, check out any pinned Tweets, follow along with captions, Tweet or DM the Space, or request to speak.

May 14, 2021
WizKid and Burna Boy are the most streamed artists on Spotify in Nigeria

Spotify’s listeners in Nigeria are showing lots of love for music from home; “I said what I said” is the most popular podcast in Nigeria

On February 23rd, more than 70 million songs, 2.2 million podcast titles, and over 4 billion playlists became officially available to Spotify listeners in Nigeria for free. Spotify launched with a tailored music experience for Africa with more than 100 expertly curated playlists across some of the most popular genres in the continent. But what got the fans listening?

The first 30 days demonstrated how much Nigerian listeners love their home-grown artists.
Four out of the top five most-streamed artists are from Nigeria. Topping the list are the country’s beloved superstars: WizKid, Burna Boy, DaVido, and Rema.

Local hits are also resonating the most with Nigerian listeners. The most-streamed track in Nigeria over the past month is “Bounce” by Rema, followed by Wizkid and Burna Boy’s “Ginger” and DaVido and Teni’s “FOR YOU”.

With a strong appetite for local sounds, it comes as no surprise that Hot Hits Naija is one of the top-streamed playlists among users. Spotify’s Africa to the world playlist African Heat comes in second reflecting listeners’ keenness to discover music from all over the continent.

Podcast listening may be a relatively new trend in Nigeria, but it is fast gaining momentum among Nigerians. In the last month, the most popular podcast on Spotify is “I Said What I Said,” with “Kwality Kontent” coming in second. “TED Talks Daily” came in third, followed by “Articulate One” and “The Daily Show With Trevor Noah: Ears Edition” in fourth and fifth position respectively.

Residents of Lagos, Suleja, Abuja, Port Harcourt and Benin City account for the most Spotify streams in Nigeria.

So how did the first month of Spotify in Nigeria sound?

Top-streamed artists:

1. WizKid
2. Burna Boy
3. DaVido
4. Drake
5. Rema

Top-streamed songs:

1. Rema – Bounce
2. WizKid feat. Burna Boy – Ginger
3. DaVido, Teni – FOR YOU
4. Olamide, Omah Lay – Infinity
5. DaVido, Focalistic, Virgo Deep – Ke Star – Remix

Most popular playlists:
1. Hot Hits Naija
2. African Heat
3. Today’s Top Hits
4. RapCaviar
5. Gbedu

Top podcasts:

1. I Said What I Said
2. Kwality Kontent
3. TED Talks Daily
4. Articulate One
5. The Daily Show With Trevor Noah: Ears Edition

Cities with most streams on Spotify:

1. Lagos
2. Suleja
3. Abuja
4. Port Harcourt
5. Benin City

Data based on Spotify user consumption between February 23 and March 22, 2021.

Download the Spotify app via the Android or iOS app store or by heading to www.spotify.com – to embed Spotify into a website – right click on any playlist, go to ‘share’ and copy embed code.

March 31, 2021
BBNAIJA’S Mercy Eke makes Acting Debut in Toyin Abraham’s ‘Fate of Alakada’

Mercy Eke joins the endless list of movie stars in Toyin Abraham’s movie, ‘Fate Of Alakada’.
The winner of the last season of Big Brother Naija, Mercy Eke appears to be spreading her tentacles as she makes her acting debut in Toyin Abraham’s ‘Fate Of Alakada.’

The winner of the last season of Big Brother Naija, Mercy Eke appears to be spreading her tentacles as she makes her acting debut in Toyin Abraham’s ‘Fate Of Alakada.’

The reality TV star gave everyone a hint about her latest project via her Instagram page on Thursday, January 23, 2020, where she shared a video of some of the cast of the movie and herself.
“Mad oooo😂fate of alakada in cinemas from 10th April 2020, you can’t miss this hilarious movie starring @toyin_abraham @brodashaggi @stephaniecoker @swankyjerry and I Lambo🎬🎥,” she captioned the video.

‘Fate of Alakada’ is the fourth film in the Alakada franchise, and is set to premiere at the cinemas on April 10, 2020. The highly anticipated movie is set to star loads of celebrities like Davido, Swanky Jerry, Stephanie Coker, Mabel Makun, Broda Shaggi, Big Brother Naija’s Khloe and Khafi and others.

January 25, 2020