Entertainment

23 Entertainers To Watch Out For In 2023

Published

3 years ago

December 31, 2022

Editor

2022 was a good year for Nigerian entertainers, and 2023 promises to be even better. In no particular order, Saturday Beats takes a look at the entertainers that will most likely make things happen this year

Wizkid

Ayodeji Balogun, popularly known as Wizkid has continued to consolidate his prime position in the industry. In November 2022, just days after he released the album, ‘More Love Less Ego’, the singer had a sold-out concert at the Madison Square Garden in New York, United States of America. It also claimed the number two spot on the US World Albums (Billboard) chart; as well as number 15 on the UK RnB albums chart.

The singer again made history in 2022 when he became the first African to headline the Rolling Loud Festival in Toronto, Canada.

Indeed, all eyes will still be on ‘Big Wiz’ in 2023.

Asake

No one saw him coming. Call Asake the rave of the moment and that will amount to belabouring the obvious. The YBNL artiste broke records with his ‘Mr Money With The Vibes’ album. When it was released, it set a new record on Apple music after becoming the African album with the most first-day streams, as well as the most opening three-day streams. The singer also headlined shows outside Nigeria. Sadly two lives were lost after a stampede at his concert at the Brixton O2 Academy, London, United Kingdom. After paying condolences to the victims, the singer has continued to do what he knows how to do best.

Burna Boy

Burna Boy’s vocal dexterity attests to why he is one of the most sought after musicians in the world at the moment. The Grammy Award winner continued to set records in 2022. His sixth studio album, ‘Love, Damini’, set a record as the fastest debut for an African song on the Billboard Hot 100 chart. Its debut on the UK album chart at number 2 also made history as the highest charting afrobeats album in the UK.

The ‘Last last’ crooner was also one of the winners at the 2022 edition of the MOBO Awards. He carted home the award for the ‘Best International Act’. Last year, he became the first African to sell out the prestigious 20,000-capacity State Farm Arena in Atlanta, USA.

Having been nominated for the 2023 Grammy Awards in the ‘Best Global Music Album’ and ‘Best Global Music Performance’ categories, fans of the singer already have many things to look up to from him.

Davido

David Adeleke, aka Davido, is not just talented, he also has a resilient spirit.

On October 31, 2022, the news of the death of his only son, Ifeanyi, left him grieving, and many of his fans distraught. However, the singer has chosen to ‘stand strong’. Earlier in 2022, he sold out the 02 arena in London.

He was one of the entertainers who flew Nigeria’s flag at the FIFA World Cup 2022. He performed at the closing ceremony of the tournament in Qatar. The singer was also named the ‘Most Popular’ and ‘Most Searched Male Musician’ while his fan club – 30 BG— emerged the ‘Most Popular (Music) Fandom’ by NET Honours in 2022.

Adekunle Gold

Just like his moniker, Adekunle keeps shining like gold. In 2022, the singer embarked on his ‘Catch Me if You Can’ tour. He sold out the Toronto, Canada, venue of the concert weeks before the show.

Tems

Singer, Openiyi Temilade, professionally known as Tems, had some major career achievements in 2022. The ‘Crazy Things’ singer was nominated for the Golden Globes Award in the Best Original Score in a Motion Picture category. American rapper, Future, sampled Tems’ vocals on his Billboard hit song, ‘Wait For U.’ The sampled song which made the track’s chorus is ‘Higher’, a song from Tem’s Extended Play album, ‘For Broken Ears’. She also won the ‘Best International Act’ award at the 2022 BET Awards.

She performed at the 2022 Global Citizen Festival in Accra, Ghana, as well. Needless to say; her fans are expecting even more from her in 2023.

Deyemi Okanlawon

Deyemi Okanlawon is undoubtedly one of the most sought after actors in Nollywood at the moment. He featured in some of 2022’s biggest movies, including ‘Brotherhood’, ‘Blood Sisters’, ‘Elesin Oba’, ‘The Wild Flower’ attest to his star power and acting prowess.

Bimbo Ademoye

No doubt, 2022 was an eventful year for actress, Bimbo Ademoye. She played different roles in quite a number of acclaimed movies, including ‘Anikulapo’. She also started a YouTube channel where she shares funny content.

Ruger

Singer, Ruger, is ending the year on a high note with his song, ‘Asiwaju’. The video for ‘Asiwaju’ which was released weeks ago already has 3.7 million views on YouTube.

He had been nominated in The Headies 2022 ‘Next Rated’ category. He has been tipped to make headlines in 2023 with his groovy tunes.

Kizz Daniel

2022 is a year that Kizz Daniel will not forget in a hurry. Two of his songs, ‘Buga’ and ‘Cough’, dominated the music industry. As of the time of filing this report, ‘Buga’ had 107million views on YouTube.

However, the singer also had his fair share of scandals when he was arrested in Tanzania for failing to perform at a concert he had been paid for. Prior to that, Daniel had also arrived late for a concert in the US. However, he is apparently living up to his billing of having ‘no bad songs’.

Oxlade

Singer, Oxlade, wormed his way into the hearts of many with his track, ‘Kulosa’, a love song which further emphasised his talent. As of the time of filing this report, the song had 11 million views on YouTube. He also released the remix of the song featuring Cuban-born American singer, Camilla Cabello. Eyes are on him to see what he would deliver in 2023.

Phyna

Otabor, popularly known as Phyna, became an instant millionaire when she got the winning the N60m prize money.

She also showed that she could have a future in Nollywood, as she featured in one of Broda Shaggi’s skits.

Singer, Daniel Benson, aka Bnxn (formerly Buju) was tipped as one of the entertainers to watch out for in 2022, and he lived up to expectations. His Extended Play album, ‘Bad Since 97’ got rave reviews from both fans and industry stakeholders.

In September 2022, he won The Headies 2022 ‘Next Rated’ award.

Ayra Starr

Mavin Records singer, Oyinkansola Aderibigbe, aka Ayra Starr, is definitely not an artiste one should underestimate. Her song, ‘Rush’, was one of the tunes that dominated the airwaves in 2022.

The track also made a former US President, Barrack Obama’s Top 2022 Songs list.

She was also Boomplay’s most streamed female artiste of 2022.

Iyabo Ojo

Outspoken actress and filmmaker, Iyabo Ojo, did not appear in many movies in 2022 but she regularly set social media abuzz with her her humorous videos on Tiktok and other antics. She was one of the cast members of ‘The Real Housewives of Lagos’ TV series.Many of her fans were shocked when Ojo on her birthday about two weeks ago, unveiled the love of her life, Paul Okoye, better known as Paul O, who is a showbiz personality. He is one of the go-to guys when it comes to getting endorsement deals for artistes.

Toyin Abraham

Despite not appearing in many movies in 2022, Toyin Abraham bagged several endorsement deals. In an interview with media personality, Ebuka Uchendu, she referred to herself as one of the richest actresses in Nollywood. She recently released her movie, ‘Ijakumo’, featuring Kunle Remi, Antar Laniyan, Bimbo Akintola and others. As of the time of filing this report, the film had already made some cool millions, and was poised to make even more.

Don Jazzy

Singer, producer and record label executive, Don Jazzy, is undoubtedly one of the most influential personalities in the music industry. His Mavin Records is home to top artistes, such as Ayra Starr, Johnny Drille, Ladipoe and Crayon.

The businessman bagged endorsement deals in 2022, appeared in skits, and started a business, ‘Jazzy’s Burger’.

Sabinus

In a space of months, Chukwuemeka Ejekwu, aka Mr Sabinus, transformed from being an emerging content creator to becoming one of the most popular skit makers in the country.

He did not just win the ‘Content Creation Award’ category of the AMVCA 2022, he bagged some endorsement deals as well. His skits, especially because of his facial expressions and mannerism, continue to resonate with Nigerians. In the course of the year, he hosted his own show in the UK, and another one in Port Harcourt, Rivers State.

Rema

Call Rema one of the biggest Nigerian artistes of 2022 and you won’t be wrong. His ‘Rave and Roses’ debut album charted 10 songs on the US Billboard Afrobeats Chart following its release. As of the time of filing this report, the video of his hit song, ‘Calm down’, had attracted 301m views on YouTube. The song also made Obama’s song list.

Meanwhile, fans will not forget in a hurry how in November 2022, he sold out the O2 Brixton Arena, London.

Macaroni

Adebowale Adedayo, aka Mr Macaroni, has continued to maintain a place as one of the leading skit makers in the country. His influence is also felt in the area of human rights, as he relentlessly fights for the rights of others.

In 2022, he clinched several endorsement deals and won many awards. This was even as he regularly spoke at events to empower young Nigerians.

Kunle Remi

From wining the Gulder Ultimate Search competition in 2010, Kunle Remi has grown in his acting career. Undoubtedly his most popular role so far, Remi acted the character of ‘Saro’ in Kunle Afolayan’s movie, ‘Anikulapo’. He also acted as a pastor in Toyin Abraham’s movie ‘Ijakumo’.

TG Omori

ThankGod Omori, better known as TG Omori or Boy Director, is a talented music video director and cinematographer. He directed the music video for Kizz Daniel’s hit song, ‘Buga’. He has also worked with artistes such as Burna Boy, Asake, Fireboy, Mayorkun, Olamide, Pheelz and others.

Portable

Love him or hate him, Habib Okikiola, aka Portable, has constantly been in the news for both good and bad reasons since he came to the limelight in the latter days of 2021. This was after his song, ‘Zazuu Zeh’, featuring Olamide and Poco Lee, became a hit. As of the time of filing this report, the song had 10 million views on YouTube.

Meanwhile, his antics on and off the stage have been widely talked about. On several occasions, he fell out with colleagues and other entertainment industry stakeholders.

Indeed, many people have their eyes on the singer to see what he will do in 2023. Though some are of the opinion that he will soon fizzle out of relevance, his fan base has actually been increasing.

PUNCH

Entertainment

Colleagues, Fans Pour Tributes As Funke Akindele Marks

Published

2 days ago

August 24, 2025

Editor

Nollywood star Funke Akindele was showered with warm tributes on social media on Sunday as colleagues, protégés, and fans marked her 48th birthday, praising the actress-producer for her friendship, mentorship and contributions to the film industry.

Akindele, best known for her comic creation Jenifa and the popular television series and films that grew from it, has long been celebrated as a mentor and role model to younger talents.

On Sunday, however, tributes poured in beyond her screen achievements to highlight her enduring friendships and influence on emerging entertainers.

In a viral post, skitmaker Akinyoola Ayoola, popularly known as Kamo State, and acclaimed as Akindele’s adopted son, paid tribute to Akindele with a birthday song and an affectionate caption that referred to her as “Grandma Sonia” and “OLUFUNKE Ayotunde.”

He posted, “Happy Birthday Grandma Sonia, lyami Olufunke Ayotunde…Words can’t express how much | appreciate you. You’ve always been more than just a godmother to me, you’ve been a source of strength, love, and unwavering support.

“Thank you for the countless ways you’ve shown me kindness, for believing in me, and for always being there, no matter what. I’m incredibly grateful for your presence in my life…Enjoy your day, lya Beji, Alase gbogbo FaanTV, JENIFA Kan, Lefty Miii,”

Popular actress Eniola Badmus, posting as @eniola_badmus on Instagram, described the box-office star as “more than just a friend,” calling her a “playmate, my gist partner, my safe place” and a source of joy.

“Thank you for all the memories and for making life so much brighter,” Badmus wrote, praying that the new year brings Akindele “endless joy, success, and blessings.”

Another well-wisher, @tobimakinde, lauded Akindele as a “true trailblazer, luminary and exemplar of excellence,” wishing her “greater strength, peace, and overflowing joy” and praying for continued success and good health.

Fans across platforms joined in the celebrations, sharing clips, photos and messages under birthday posts, with many praising her career achievements and role as a mentor in Nollywood.

@Metalistix commented, “Happy 48th Birthday, Funke Akindele! Congratulations to you on this special day. Many of us grew up watching you in our teens, and we’re still watching and celebrating you as adults – and we know we’ll continue cheering you on even in old age. Cheers to a beautiful life, more success, and endless joy. Keep shining, Funke!”

@Tina_rayx described Akindele as “The Wizkid of Nollywood. Number 1. Nobody comes close. Aura upon Aura.”

@TowFunFun posted, “Happy birthday to the most successful actress in Nigerian history. The mother of many of us.”

Meanwhile, the creator of Jenifa used the occasion to reveal details of her next big project.

In a birthday message to fans, she announced her upcoming film Behind the Scenes, set for release in December 2025.

She said, “It’s my birthday today, and I feel so fulfilled. I’m graciously grateful to God for the grace to keep telling our stories… I’m using this special day to reveal my blockbuster movie, which premieres in December 2025, Behind The Scenes.”

Entertainment

How Toke Makinwa’s Pregnancy Unveiling Sparked Social Media Frenzy

Published

3 days ago

August 23, 2025

Editor

Nigerian media personality, entrepreneur and actress, Toke Makinwa, sent shockwaves across the internet exactly a week ago after unveiling her pregnancy, a revelation that has since dominated conversations both online and offline.Newspaper-inspired merchandise

For over a decade, Makinwa has remained one of Nigeria’s most recognised media figures. From her early days as a presenter on Rhythm 93.7 FM’s ‘The Morning Drive’, to her widely followed YouTube vlog, Toke Moments, and her best-selling memoir ‘On Becoming’, she has built a reputation for candour, glamour and resilience.Newspaper-inspired merchandise

At 40, she has grown into an entertainment powerhouse, with endorsements, acting roles, and businesses that have cemented her influence across fashion, beauty, and lifestyle spaces.

Over the years, Toke Makinwa’s views on relationships have often sparked debate. Following a high-profile divorce from entrepreneur Maje Ayida in 2017, she became vocal about self-worth, financial independence and rethinking traditional expectations of marriage.

While she once remarked that “marriage is not an achievement,” she later admitted she remained open to remarriage but only on her own terms.

In her exact words, she remarked, “As independent women, do you think that we have glamorised this notion of being independent? Yeah. It’s tough, I won’t lie. Let me break it down. Forget the cameras. At this point in my life, if I have the opportunity to be the second, third, fourth or fifth wife, I will take it.”

This history of outspoken reflections made her pregnancy announcement more striking to fans and critics alike.

The pregnancy unveiling
Ahead of her Instagram unveiling, Tribune Online on Tuesday, August 12, exclusively reported that the actress is pregnant and nears delivery. Digital edition of the newspaper

Following the report, Makinwa took to Instagram on Wednesday to announce what she called “the biggest project of my life.”

Accompanied by radiant photographs of her growing bump, she described the journey as “the highest calling ever,” adding:

“Of all the projects I’ve embarked on in my life, this one trumps it all. The timing couldn’t be more perfect. God truly makes all things beautiful in His time.”

Her heartfelt caption, infused with gratitude and spirituality, immediately struck a chord with millions of followers.

Social media frenzy
The reaction that trailed Toke Makinwa’s unveiling was nothing short of explosive. Within two hours, her Instagram post had attracted over 20,000 comments. By the five-hour mark, the figure had crossed 40,000, as fans, colleagues and celebrities flooded the comments section with congratulatory messages.

At the time of writing this and barely 10 days after the unveiling, Toke’s Instagram post has 75,000 comments and continues to generate 75,000 reactions from fans and critics. Many hailed her story as inspirational, particularly as she is experiencing motherhood at 40, a milestone that challenged cultural expectations about timing and family.

Popular celebrities such as Omotola Jalade Ekeinde, Iyabo Ojo, Adesua Etomi and others publicly celebrated the news, while fans reposted her images with beautiful captions describing her as a “beacon of hope” and a “symbol of divine timing.”

‘Unknown husband’ question
Yet, the wave of celebrations quickly gave way to speculations. Toke did not disclose the identity of the father, prompting thousands of curious and sometimes intrusive questions across social platforms.

Comments about who the “baby daddy” dominated the conversation for days. Controversial social media personality, Uche Maduagwu, weighed in with a question, somewhat rhetorical: “Toke, who gives you belle? Na married man or single, let’s know abeg.”

Another Instagram user, @halibut, commented: “Where is your husband? For you all you girls saying you can’t settle for less, can you see Toke Makinwa? She don settle for less, she no fit show her husband, maybe na gateman give her belle.” @Afroblog001 also wrote: “Thought you said you no need man for your life or na woman sperm did the job?”

The absence of clarity also gave rise to conspiracy theories. Some online users suggested she may have used a surrogate, pointing to the lack of earlier bare-belly photos. @shemstrends commented: “Why do I feel artificial and lowkey a surrogate, but however I’m feeling, congratulations to her.” Similarly, @the.halfcast wrote: “The Toke we all know will definitely want to show us the naked body of her tummy.”

The speculation gained traction until she eventually shut it down herself by posting a striking image of her bare bump.

As if that wasn’t enough, the announcement also attracted moral criticism.

Commentators questioned her decision to frame the pregnancy in spiritual terms while being unmarried, igniting heated discussions on the intersection of faith, motherhood, and societal expectations.

Popular social commentator Solomon Buchi wrote: “As a Jesus girl or Christian, we need to be very careful how we mix God with our personal decisions, decisions we have decided to pursue, whether they are Godly or not. Now I am not saying there is anything ungodly or not about having a child but you are having a child outside of wedlock, you are not married, and so there is just no need bringing God into that. There is no need spiritualizing it. Honestly you can give your testimony without implicating God’s word and His standard. Just say that you wanted to be a mother and now you are about to be a mother, or you are a mother already. There is no need to infuse God into it because, according to God’s standard, the only right way to be a parent is in the premise of marriage.”

Anothe Instagram user, @iamkennethudeh, also commented: “God’s standard is a good man and good woman to bear and raise children and live happily. Don’t normalise this abnormally for our young men and women, child without a father and you are even posting.”

While some viewed such remarks as judgmental, others felt they echoed long-standing cultural beliefs about marriage and parenting.

Throughout all the noise, Toke Makinwa has maintained her silence on the identity of her unborn child’s father, focusing instead on celebrating what she describes as a new and fulfilling season in her life

Beyond the Gossip

Beyond the frenzy, Makinwa’s announcement resonated because it spoke to broader themes: women defining family on their own terms, the intersection of faith and timing, and the pressure society places on female celebrities.

For many, her story reinforces that motherhood and fulfilment can come at any stage, irrespective of age or marital status.

As one fan wrote in a widely shared comment: “Toke’s journey is proof that delay is not denial.”

Entertainment

Music Earnings Couldn’t Have Sponsored My Wedding To Otedola’s Daughter – Mr Eazi

Published

4 days ago

August 22, 2025

Editor

Nigerian singer and entrepreneur, Mr Eazi has insinuated that his music earnings alone couldn’t have covered the expenses of his wedding to actress Temi Otedola, daughter of billionaire businessman, Femi Otedola.

The ‘Leg Over’ crooner stated this while reacting to an X user who claimed that he was trying to recoup his wedding expenses by releasing his new single, ‘Cassanova.’

Reacting, Mr Easy said, “U think sey music go fit pay for that wedding my G? lol”.

However, another X user stated that Mr Eazi’s earnings from 2018 could have sponsored the wedding.

Responding, the singer explained that he had a successful hit-run in 2017-2018, but it was his most financially challenging year in the past decade.

“You got a point tho, but 2017-18 is the brokest I’ve been in the last 9 years! But all the music I put out then enter like mad sha im really thankful,” he wrote.

DAILY POST reported that Mr Eazi and Temi held their wedding in a private Iceland ceremony recently.

The couple got engaged in April 2022 in London, England.

Mr Eazi has previously revealed that he met Temi through her elder sister, DJ Cuppy, who was his friend.