Entertainment

Biggest Takeaways Of Nigerian Music Landscape In 2023

Published

2 years ago

December 30, 2023

Nigerian music superstars undoubtedly solidified their enviable spots on the global music scene, during the outgoing year, 2023.

They topped music charts and broke barriers by owning all arenas as they maintained their dominance on world stage with their unique Afrobeats music.

Rema’s Calm Down

The stage was set by Afrobeats sensation Rema when his hit single, “Calm Down” topped chart as the number 1 song in India in January.

The remix featuring Selena Gomez also recorded the same feat, moving from number 8 to become the number 1 song on the Billboard Global Excl, in the United States chart song and top collaboration.

The track reached number 3 on the Billboard Hot 100, peaking in June 2023. It spent a total of 57 weeks on the chart, making Rema’s first song to crack the Hot 100, and the “Only Murders in the Building” star’s ninth top 10 hit on the tally.

Not only that, the song equally won Best Afrobeats song at the 2023 Billboard Music Awards held in November. The same month the smash hit was ranked as the most ‘shazammed’ song of 2023 globally. It made history as the first African song to top the Global Shazam Year-End list, beating Miley Cyrus’ ‘Flowers’ and Lady Gaga’s ‘Bloody Mary’ which ranked second and third respectively, to achieve the feat.

More so, the song was ranked number 12 most streamed song in the world on Apple Music in 2023 as well as number 45 most-streamed song of 2023 in the U.S. on Apple Music. It topped charts in North Africa and the Middle East, earning Rema a Guinness World Record. The song, which was released on February 11, 2022, as one of the lead singles off Rema’s debut studio album, titled, “Rave & Roses”, also reached 700 million views on You Tube.

It as well charted in multiple European countries such as Belgium, reaching Number 1 on the Belgian Ultratop 50, Dutch Top 40, and Dutch Single Top 100. In the United Kingdom, the song peaked at Number 3 and spent 27 non-consecutive weeks in the Top 10 of the UK Singles Chart. Rema crowned the year by winning the maiden “Best Afrobeats” award at this year’s MTV Europe Music Awards. He also recorded the most appearances for an African artiste on the 2023 Billboard Year-End Charts (34), including artistes’ year-end charts, airplay, albums, and song chart entries.

Burna Boy’s ‘Love Damini stadium tour’

Another Nigerian superstar who made a strong impact on the global stage is Burna Boy. Apart from his ‘Love Damini stadium tour’ that took the self-acclaimed African Giant through the length and breadth of the world, this year saw Burna Boy maintaining his dominance of the global scene. The release of his seventh studio album, titled “I Told Them” set the global music scene on fire in addition to his tour of Europe and America. For the third year, the African Giant secured four nominations for the 2024 Grammys, including “Sitting On Top of the World” (Best Melodic Rap), “I Told Them” (Best Global Music Album), “Alone” (Best Global Music Performance) and “City Boys” (Best African Music Performance). But his ‘Love Damini stadium tour ‘ was the event of the year.

The self-acclaimed African Giant kicked off the tour in London, where he shutdown the 80,000-capacity West-Ham London stadium in the United Kingdom. The sold out performance was a testimony to Burna Boy’s urge to rule the world stage.

The 3-hour nonstop concert drew an incredible crowd, completely selling out the stadium and cementing a historic moment in Burna Boy’s flourishing career. He was also at the huge Gelredome stadium, in Arnhem, The Netherlands, for the second leg of his ‘Love Damini’ Stadium tour. The first concert was sold-out, and the organizers were impressed to re-invite him for another successful outing, which he didn’t disappoint.

He also made another big feast this year, after he joined Brazilian superstar, Anitta alongside Swedish sensation, Alesso to headline the 2023 UEFA Champions League final. It was so big that the African Giant said “I know it doesn’t get any bigger than the UEFA Champions League. That’s why I’m so excited to be performing on the Pepsi stage at this year’s final.”

In addition to his success story, Burna Boy became the first African act to obtain a gold-certified record in France, and the sell out of the 21,000-capacity State Farm Arena in Atlanta, USA. He also became the first African artist to get RIAA certifications for songs from three different albums.

Tiwa Savage’s thrilling performance at coronation of King Charles III

It was a historic moment for Nigeria’s songstress, Tiwa Savage, when she mounted the stage to deliver a thrilling performance at the coronation concert of King Charles III and Queen Camilla at Windsor Castle in May this year. She wowed the audience with her rendition of “Keys to the Kingdom,” a song she recorded with Mr Eazi and featured on Beyoncé’s album “The Lion King.”

Clad in a green dress designed by Lanre Da Silva, Tiwa Savage performed on an incredibly lit stage, accompanied by an orchestra that included violinists, drummers, and backup singers who sang in the Yoruba language. The concert also featured performances from global music icons like Katy Perry, Lionel Richie, Take That, Freya Ridings, Alexis Ffrench, Andrea Bocelli, and Sir Bryn Terfel. It was indeed a big outing for Tiwa Savage and African music stars.

Davido soars with ‘Timeless ‘

Davido has released many hit songs in the past, but his latest album, “Timeless” has taken him round the world, thus becoming a global anthem. The album, which was released this year, was one of the songs that earned the Aye’ crooner three nominations for the 2024 Grammy Awards, including Best Global Album for his latest album, “Timeless.”

The other two nominations are for Best African Performance for his song “Unavailable” and Best Global Music Performance for his song “Feel”. This is the first time Davido has been nominated for Grammy Awards, and he was obviously overjoyed with the good news as he took to his Instagram page to express his excitement, saying, “3 nominations at the Grammys!! Delay is not Denial”.

Wizkid’s giant strides

Like Davido and Burna Boy, Wizkid came through on the global scene this year. His “More Love, Less Ego” concert at Tottenham Hotspur Stadium in London went down in history as one of the sold out shows at the London stadium.

The concert, held in July, saw the Starboy treating the crowd of fans to an electrifying performance. Starting from his iconic “Superstar” album, Wizkid serenaded the audience with tracks from “Ayo” and powered through to “Made in Lagos,” two albums that have solidified his position as a global music icon. The concert added to the growing popularity of Nigeria superstars on the global stage.

More collaboration between Nigerian superstars and their foreign counterparts

Following the recognition Nigerian music is currently enjoying on the global scene, the country’s music superstars have sustained their collaborative efforts with their foreign counterparts. This year saw more of such collaboration in full force. Rema collaborated with Selena Gomez to remix his hit single, “Calm Down,.” Burna Boy on his part featured top acts like Rapper J Cole, 21 Savage and Seyi Vibez in his 15- track album, “I Told You.” He also featured 21 Savage in his single titled “Big 7” and “Sittin’ On Top Of The World” while “Talibans II,” featured Byron Messia.

Mohbad’s controversial death

One of the biggest setbacks recorded in the country’s entertainment industry this year was the controversial demise of popular singer, Mohbad, which gained international attention. The death of the singer on September 12, opened a can of worms, leading to nationwide protests with the #justice for Mohbad,’ arrest and detention of marlian record president, Afeez Fashola, aka Naira Marley alongside Sam Larry and the Lagos State Police Command inaugurating a 13-man special investigation team to probe the mysterious death of the singer.

Ayra Starr soars higher

Mavin Records artiste, Ayra Starr made an impressive outing this outgoing year. She embarked on her first ever headline tour of North America, Africa, Australia and Europe tagged ‘21: The World Tour’ and it was an experience of a lifetime for her. “It’s my first headline tourrrrr !!! I’ve been touring around the world, opening for other artists, opening stages at festivals, Now it’s an Ayra Starr show,” she wrote on Instagram.

The Beninese born singer’s status was elevated alongside Tyla as they formed part of 10 acts who made the long list announced ahead of a ranked shortlist and the announcement of the annual winner on 5 January 2024 on Radio 1. The compilation of the list involved insights from 149 music experts, encompassing artists, DJs, radio and TV producers, journalists, streaming experts and festival bookers.

Signed to Don Jazzy-led Mavin Records, Ayra Starr is among Nigeria’s most streamed female acts across major digital platforms. Last year, she was tipped by music video network Vevo as an artist on the cusp of global breakthrough in 2023 as part of its DSCVR Artists to Watch initiative.

Best known for her global hit ‘Water’, Tyla last week became the highest-charting African female solo act of all time after securing the Number 10 spot on the Billboard Hot 100.
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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

4 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.