Ghanaian musician Fuse ODG draped in traditional Kente cloth and gold beaded necklaces, seated overlooking a coastal Ghanaian city. Photo Credit: Fuse ODG/Instagram

Ghana turns 69 today and the country has every reason to celebrate. On 6th March 1957, Ghana became the first sub-Saharan African country to gain independence from colonial rule — a moment so significant it did not just belong to Ghana, it belonged to the entire African continent. The independence movement that started in Accra inspired nations from Lagos to Nairobi to demand their own freedom, and the ripple effects of that singular moment are still felt across Africa today.

Sixty-nine years on, Ghana is still giving the world so much to be proud of — and music is right at the top of that list. From highlife to hiplife, Afrobeats to Afro-fusion, Ghana has consistently produced sounds that travel far beyond its borders and land on playlists all over the world. So whether you are Ghanaian, Nigerian, or simply a lover of good music, here are five songs that deserve a spot on your playlist this weekend.

Azonto — Fuse ODG ft. Tiffany

We could not make this list without starting here. Azonto is the song that turned a dance move into a global phenomenon and reminded the world that Ghana knew exactly how to have a good time. It is over a decade old and it still works at every single party. A classic for a reason and a forever staple on any Ghana playlist.

Makoma — King Paluta 

King Paluta’s breakthrough song did enormous numbers on streaming platforms and dominated TikTok and Instagram all through 2024. If you have not heard it yet, today is a very good day to fix that. It is the kind of song that makes you want to find out everything else he has ever made.

Sankofa — Gyakie 

Gyakie’s latest track, Sankofa, debuted on the Billboard U.S. Afrobeats Songs chart, securing a spot within the Top 50 — which tells you everything you need to know about where she is headed. Jackline Acheampong, who grew up around music through her father, veteran highlife musician Nana Acheampong, has been building steadily and Sankofa is her most compelling work yet. Beautiful, intentional and very much worth your time.

Jejereje — Stonebwoy 

Stonebwoy’s Jejereje was one of the most talked-about songs in Ghana in 2024, smooth guitar work sitting alongside heavy cultural drums that make the whole thing completely irresistible. It is the song you put on when you want the weekend to feel like it means something.

WOTOWOTO SEASONING — Black Sherif ft. ODUMODUBLVCK 

This standout collaboration between Black Sherif and Nigerian rapper ODUMODUBLVCK became a West African anthem that crossed every border it met. Ghana and Nigeria on one track, doing what West Africa does best. The perfect note to end the list on.

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Francis Mercier and Magic System members, including lead singer A’salfo in an orange Ivory Coast jersey, posing together. Photo Credit: Magic System/Instagram

Do you remember that song from the late 90s that had absolutely everyone on their feet — children, adults, grandparents — dancing like their lives depended on it? Nobody fully understood the lyrics, but that melody did not care. “Premier Gaou” by Magic System was that song, and it has just gone Platinum in France.

And not just the original. The 2023 Afro-house remix by Haitian DJ and producer Francis Mercier and Nitefreak is the version that earned the plaque, and the celebration that followed is the kind of video you watch twice just to feel something good.

Francis Mercier shared the moment on social media — him and the members of Magic System, standing in the streets of Paris, holding the commemorative platinum plaque and singing “Premier Gaou” at full volume with zero apologies. They are laughing, swaying, pointing at the plaque mid-lyric, and the call-and-response between Mercier and the Magic System members is pure Zouglou spirit from start to finish, punctuated with shouts of “Affaire à suivre!” — to be continued.

Ivorian music group Magic System (A’salfo, Goudé, Tino, and Manadja) posing together. Photo Credit: Magic System/Instagram

The lyrics they are belting out are as iconic as ever. “C’est dans ma galère que la go Antou m’a quitté, oh ah” — it was during my struggles that my girl Antou left me. And then the one line that has lived in the hearts of an entire generation: “Premier gaou n’est pas gaou oh, c’est deuxième gaou qui est gnata oh” — the first fool is not really a fool; it is the one who gets fooled a second time who is a real idiot.

Magic System first released “Premier Gaou” in 1999, and twenty-six years later the song is still finding new audiences, new charts and new milestones. Francis Mercier and Nitefreak gave it a new life in 2023, and that life has now gone Platinum in France.

 

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What do Tems and Bukayo Saka have in common? Apparently, a studio session at Abbey Road and something that is landing very soon.

Arsenal shared a video of the two at the legendary Abbey Road Studios in London with just two words as a caption — “Landing soon” — and that was all it took for the internet to completely unravel. A footballer and one of Nigeria’s biggest music exports, together in the same room where The Beatles once recorded, working on something nobody saw coming. We have questions, and we suspect the answers are going to be very good.

The video opens with Tems in the recording booth, hair in long voluminous curls, dressed in a dark oversized zip-up fleece jacket with a yellow graphic pattern over a lime-green top. She moves through the studio with the ease of someone who has spent a lot of time in rooms like this, warmly greeting her collaborators and welcoming them into the space. Saka showed up in the Arsenal Terrace Icons Track Top in deep burgundy with white Adidas three-stripes running down the sleeves and the Arsenal crest sitting on the chest.

The clip captures the early moments of what looks like a proper creative session — a musician’s hands moving across an M-Audio keyboard, audio cables spread across a red patterned rug. Tems sets the tone from the start, asking Bukayo, “I’m pressing record now. Are you ready?” before turning to the room and delivering: “Welcome to Abbey Road. Where the magic really happens. Let’s try something out.”

The comments came in fast and they came in loud. “The Trophy song is getting ready.” “We are so here for this!!” “Tems and Arsenal. Oh God.” Nobody is pretending to be patient about this, and we do not blame them one bit.

Whatever is coming, it is coming soon. And we will be right here waiting.

 

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Photo Credit: Asa/Instagram

We have not seen Asa on our timelines in a while, so when she dropped these photos, we stopped scrolling immediately.

The singer shared a fresh set of pictures captioned simply, Grateful — and honestly, we are the ones who should be grateful because this look was everything.

She showed up in a white macramé overlay over a black base, silver beaded fringe draped across her forehead, a geometric red-stone pendant, a bold red bangle, and the dewiest, most glowing skin. Every single piece worked together and none of it felt like it was trying too hard.

Asa’s aesthetic has always been cool and slightly bohemian, and these photos are a reminder of why it works.

It has been a minute, but she is back. And she brought the photos to prove it. Oh wait, do we sense new music coming soon? Because the timing of these photos feels very intentional.

See photos below

 

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Before the global stages and chart-topping records, Tiwa Savage was a 24-year-old student at Berklee College of Music, studying Professional Music. She was there on scholarship — an opportunity she says changed the direction of her career.

Looking back on that moment, she said:

I know this personally because at the age of 24. I was awarded a scholarship to attend the world-class institution, Berklee College of Music. That opportunity changed my perspective. It expanded my understanding of global systems, and the power of knowledge behind creativity. It showed me that talent is universal — but access is not.

That access is now at the centre of her latest move.

Years after that scholarship shaped her own path, Tiwa has launched the Tiwa Savage Music Foundation, an initiative focused on discovering, developing and supporting the next generation of African music creatives. But the Foundation isn’t limited to artists alone. It is built around the wider ecosystem that sustains the industry — the producers, engineers, songwriters, publishers, lawyers and composers who often work behind the scenes.

As she put it:

Afrobeats has captured the world’s attention but an industry cannot stand on artists alone. Behind every global sound is an ecosystem of Producers, engineers, entertainment lawyers, publishers, innovators, composers, the person who scores the music to your favorite movie or the person who uses music as a tool for healing. These are the architects of structure, ownership and longevity. If we do not intentionally develop them, we weaken the very house we are trying to grow.

The Foundation launches with a partnership that feels especially personal. Tiwa has teamed up with Berklee College of Music to bring an immersive programme directly to Nigeria. The Tiwa Savage Intensive Music Programme will mark the first-ever Berklee on the Road initiative in the country — a full-circle moment for the alumna (Berklee PDM ’07).

Berklee President Jim Lucchese described the collaboration as a significant step for the institution’s global outreach:

The Tiwa Savage Intensive Music Program, our first-ever Berklee on the Road in Nigeria, will continue to increase access to Berklee’s curriculum around the world through the generosity and collaborative spirit of one of our most accomplished and dedicated alums. The program presents a tremendous and unique opportunity for global artists; I look forward to seeing the artistry and creativity that results from these exciting workshops.

Jason Camelio, Assistant Vice President for Berklee Global Programs and Partnerships, added:

Our team connects the Berklee community to the world and the world to the Berklee community. These educational experiences are best accomplished with the knowledge and expertise of leading artists and alumni. There is no better way to connect with the music community in Nigeria than with Tiwa Savage. We see this program and relationship as a historic pathway forward to enrich our educational and artistic experiences, inspire our students and teachers, and open doors for the next generation of emerging artists.

Beyond training and mentorship, Tiwa says the Foundation is also about preparing African creatives for the realities of a rapidly shifting industry — particularly as technology continues to transform how music is made and owned.

The Tiwa Savage Music Foundation is my commitment in giving others that same opportunity that was given to me because as technology reshapes music, we must be prepared. Artificial Intelligence is transforming everything, the question is not whether it will affect African music … it already is. The question is whether we will be educated leaders in this space, or observers left behind. For too long, African creatives have been perceived as late to global systems. Education changes that. Access changes that. Ownership changes that.

The programme will run daily from 10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., culminating in a live showcase where participants present original work blending global music styles with West African traditions. Selected participants will receive scholarship awards and tailored guidance on further study through Berklee’s in-person and online programmes.

For emerging musicians, producers, songwriters and creatives across Africa who are interested in taking part, applications are now open and will close on 20 March 2026. Admission is highly selective, and there is no tuition cost for accepted participants.

 

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“Yep, play.”

Those two words, heard at the very top of Ayra Starr’s latest video, might just be the most telling thing she’s said all week. If the clip she just shared is anything to go by, the Mavin Records superstar is clearly warming up for something big.

The video opens in a sparse white room—bare ceilings, exposed pipes, and industrial conduits running along the walls. It feels raw, almost unfinished. Then the camera tilts down, and there she is: long, dark curly hair, deep purple eye makeup that demands your full attention, a black sequined dress, and a jewelled harness with a large silver cross resting at her chest. With electric purple tights and matching heeled sandals, the head-to-toe colour palette feels entirely intentional.

What follows is as confident a self-introduction as one can give without saying a word. She dances and poses through the frame like she already knows the track she’s soundtracking is going to land. It is a mood reel, a visual statement, and—if you read between the lines—almost certainly a teaser for a new musical chapter.

There are already strong whispers that this track, rumoured to be titled “Where Do We Go“, is the lead single from her recently completed third studio album. Fans have been waiting for a solo follow-up to her massive 2025 run, which included the Wizkid-assisted hit “Gimme Dat“—the song that recently earned her a 2026 Grammy nomination for Best African Music Performance.

We don’t have a confirmed release date just yet. However, between the snatched purple makeup and that two-word command at the top of the clip, it really does feel like Ayra Starr is getting ready to make some noise again.

 

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Photo Credit: Asake/Instagram

From the moment he burst onto the scene with that signature “Ololade mi Asake” tag, Nigerian music has not been the same. And Spotify just made it official. Asake has been confirmed as the most streamed artist in Nigeria since the platform launched in 2021, with four of the top ten most streamed songs in the country belonging to him, including the number one track “Remember.” Four out of ten. Let that sink in.

If you have ever found yourself at a party, a wedding, a road trip, or simply in your room at midnight and an Asake song came on and the whole atmosphere shifted, you already understand why the numbers look the way they do. Now We’re diving into the five tracks that have had Nigeria on a collective loop, with the volume firmly at 100.

Remember

As the official most-streamed song in Spotify Nigeria’s history, this standout from the 2023 album “Work of Art” remains a masterclass in Amapiano-infused nostalgia. Its infectious refrain and high-energy production turned it into a global anthem that still feels like a brand-new release every time it hits the speakers.

Lonely At The Top

Also from his 2023 sophomore project Work of Art, this soulful masterpiece became a national anthem for anyone navigating the pressures of success. It showcased a more vulnerable side of Mr. Money, proving he could dominate the charts with quiet introspection just as easily as with loud club bangers.

 

Joha

A fan-favorite from his record-breaking 2022 debut album Mr. Money With The Vibe, this track originated from a dance he created during his university days. Its fusion of traditional Fuji vibes with modern log drums made it an irresistible replay staple that continues to ignite dancefloors across the continent.

Sungba (Remix) ft. Burna Boy

First appearing on his debut Ololade Asake EP in early 2022, this explosive remix gave the street hit global wings by adding a heavyweight verse from the African Giant. The heavy log drums and “Sungba” chant created a sonic earthquake that still moves crowds years later, particularly after its inclusion on his debut album “Mr. Money With The Vibe.”

 

Peace Be Unto You (PBUY)

Released in June 2022 as a cornerstone of his record-breaking debut album Mr. Money With The Vibe, this track solidified his status as an untouchable hit-making machine. The unique blend of Islamic-inspired chants and high-octane production made it one of the most distinctive and replayed songs of his breakout era.

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Spotify has turned five in Nigeria and to mark the milestone, the streaming giant just dropped some numbers that are going to make every Nigerian music lover very proud.

The platform launched in Nigeria in February 2021, and the very first song a Nigerian user streamed was, interestingly, not an Afrobeats track. It was Shiga Lin‘s Cantopop ballad from Hong Kong, which Spotify described as “a fitting start for what the next five years would look like: borderless, discovery-driven listening.” Five years later, the data tells a story that is hard to argue with.

Nigerian users have created more than 25 million playlists since launch, and in 2025 alone they clocked more than 1.4 billion hours of listening time. The average Nigerian listener on the platform is just 26 years old, and listening has grown by over 163 percent year on year since 2021. The number of Nigerian artists on Spotify is also up 158 percent since launch, meaning more creators are reaching audiences at home and around the world than ever before.

Now to the part everyone wants to know. The five most streamed artists in Nigeria over the past five years are Asake, Wizkid, Seyi Vibez, Burna Boy, and Davido. Asake’s position at the top is backed by serious numbers. Spotify notes that he has four of the top ten most streamed songs in Nigeria over the five year period, with his track “Remember” sitting at number one.

Afrobeats is the genre driving most of this growth, scaling by a staggering 5,022 percent since 2021. But Nigerian listeners are not stopping there. Amapiano has grown by 10,330 percent, gospel and praise music by 5,499 percent, hip-hop and rap by 3,020 percent, and R&B by 2,602 percent. Perhaps the most telling figure of all is that streams of music in Nigerian indigenous languages grew by 554 percent in 2024 alone, which Spotify says shows “a deep connection to local-language storytelling.”

Podcasts are also finding a serious audience. Nigerians have streamed almost 60 million hours of podcast content since Spotify launched, confirming that the appetite for audio in Nigeria goes well beyond music.

Five years in, and Nigeria is one of the most passionate listening audiences on the platform.

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Photo Credit: Fimi/Instagram

Would you love to be a superstar? Fimi certainly would and she wants it so fiercely that she has poured that desire into a brand-new single titled “Superstarr.”

On the track, the rapper and songwriter, Sharon–Rose Similoluwa Banjo–Ogunleye, opens up about her ambition with striking honesty. Beneath the confident delivery lies a young woman driven by responsibility, love and an unshakeable determination to rise.

Announcing the release on Instagram, she shared a striking line from the song: “I’ll pour my desperation on the bloody beat, got a family of five that I gotta feed. Channeling all of my pain to the melody, kinle ra Chanel for my mum — it’s why I’m hustling.”

Fimi describes “Superstarr” as vulnerable, real and raw. And more than anything, she hopes listeners hear themselves in it.

Listen below

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Photo Credit: Rema/Instagram

If you have been anywhere near a speaker, a party, or the internet in the last few years, you already know Rema. The Benin-born superstar is only 25 years old and he is already building a body of significant work. A 2025 Grammy nomination for Best Global Music Album. A sweep at the 2026 AFRIMA Awards where he took home Artiste of the Year. A sophomore album, “HEIS,” that did not just perform well on the charts but genuinely shifted the direction of a genre.

With “HEIS,” Rema introduced the world to Afrorave, his own corner of sound that pulls from traditional rhythms and pushes them into experimental trap territory. That balance between honouring where he comes from and refusing to stay in one place is exactly what makes Rema one of the most interesting artists Africa has produced in a long time.

If your 2026 playlist is missing something and you cannot quite put your finger on what, it is probably him. Here are five Rema tracks that deserve a permanent spot:

Benin Boys (feat. Shallipopi)

A heavy-hitting celebration of his heritage. This collaboration with fellow Benin City native Shallipopi is a high-energy anthem that fuses hometown pride with a dark, cinematic production. It’s the sound of two stars acknowledging their roots while conquering the world.

HEHEHE

This track is Rema at his most confident and experimental. Featuring his signature “manic” laughter and a high-tempo, synth-heavy beat, it serves as a bold declaration of his status as the “number one” (Heis) in the game. It’s unconventional, catchy, and pure “Afrorave.”

Secondhand (feat. Don Toliver)

A smooth, 2026 collaboration that proves Rema’s versatility. This track leans into a more atmospheric, trap-infused sound, blending his signature melodic flow with Don Toliver’s psychedelic vocals. It’s perfect for late-night drives or chilled-out lounge sessions

OZEBA

If you want to experience the “madness” of Rema’s current era, this is it. “OZEBA” features frenzied production and experimental vocal layering that makes it one of the most unique songs in the Afrobeats space right now.

Charm

A modern classic that still holds its weight in 2026. This track highlights the chilled-out, summertime mood that Rema mastered early on. It’s soulful, flirtatious, and remains one of his most-streamed tracks for its infectious, laid-back groove.

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If there is one thing about Cardi B, she certainly knows how to keep us on our toes and the crowd at her Los Angeles show just found out why. During her highly anticipated Little Miss Drama Tour, the “Bodak Yellow” rapper proved she is the ultimate professional when she transformed an accidental on-stage fall into an instant viral meme, laughing it off with the kind of grace only a Bronx queen could muster. However, the real “mic drop” moment came when she surprised the sold-out Kia Forum by bringing out South Africa’s very own golden girl, Tyla.

The energy in the arena shifted to a whole new level as the duo took to the stage to perform “Nice Guy” and “Chanel“, two standout tracks from Cardi’s record-breaking 2026 sophomore album, “Am I The Drama?.” It was a true link-up for the books, especially considering Tyla is currently basked in the glow of her recent win at the 2026 Grammy Awards, where she took home the award for Best African Music Performance.

Seeing the rap icon and the reigning Afro-pop princess share the stage felt like a beautiful bridge between global sounds, leaving the audience in a complete frenzy. From the choreography to the undeniable chemistry between the two stars, the night served as a high-profile celebration of their respective journeys on the global stage.

 

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Love is in the air, and just in time for Valentine’s Day, the first single from the highly anticipated original soundtrack album of the upcoming feature film “EVI” has officially arrived. Titled “All My Love,” the soulful Afrobeat/R&B duet has been released and is now available on all major music streaming platforms worldwide. As an added treat, the official music video featuring scenes from the film has also premiered.

Performed in the film by Dayo and Evi, played by Ibrahim Suleiman and Osas Okonyon, the song’s vocals are delivered by Osas Okonyon and Abbey Wonder. Written by Martin Asogwa (Marzz) and produced by Tolu Obanro (Tyanx), “All My Love” beautifully captures the emotional connection between the two characters.

With tender melodies and heartfelt harmonies, the track explores themes of devotion, trust and the emotional risks lovers take for one another. Vulnerable, romantic and deeply resonant, it sets the perfect tone for the season of love while offering audiences an intimate preview into the emotional world of EVI.

Set for nationwide cinema release on March 27, 2026, “EVI” is produced by Judith Audu, written and directed by Uyoyou Adia, and distributed by FilmOne Entertainment. The film tells the story of a talented but arrogant rising star, Evi, who is forced to rebuild her life and career after losing everything, finding unexpected hope through a troubled talent manager. Music lies at the very heart of Evi’s storytelling, shaping the emotional journeys and growth of its characters.

The film is a Judith Audu Productions project in collaboration with Switch Visuals Productions, Signet Rings Productions and NOI Productions. It is powered by CcHUB in partnership with Africa No Filter and supported by the Gates Foundation.

Watch the music video below:

 

 

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 Global stars King Promise and Mr Eazi reunite on “That Way” a smooth, emotionally driven Afrofusion single that blends millennial pop nostalgia with contemporary African sound.

Produced by GuiltyBeatz and JAE5, the track serves as the second release from their joint project,”See What You’ve Done“, and highlights the effortless chemistry between two of West Africa’s most distinctive voices.

Rooted in nostalgia, “That Way” draws direct inspiration from the Backstreet Boys’ iconic hit “I Want It That Way,” reimagined through a modern African lens. The result is a record that feels instantly familiar yet refreshingly current. King Promise’s silky melodies pair seamlessly with Mr Eazi’s laid-back confidence, creating a relaxed, emotionally resonant sound where feeling leads over formula.

The official music video for “That Way” was released on the 6th of February 2026. Directed by Charlie Rees and produced by Oculens, the London-shot visual amplifies the song’s nostalgic yet modern tone, translating its warmth and intimacy into a compelling on-screen narrative that complements the record’s emotional core.

With “That Way,” King Promise and Mr Eazi continue to expand the emotional and cultural depth of “See What We’ve Done”, reinforcing the project’s themes of reflection, connection, and evolution.

“That Way” is now available on all major streaming platforms.

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Lagos’ food and lifestyle scene came alive on December 17 and 18, 2025, as thousands of guests gathered for the Foodie in Lagos Festival. A two-day celebration of food, drinks, music, and family-friendly experiences. Curated by Foodie in Lagos, the festival brought together 53 carefully selected vendors spanning food, lifestyle, and creative brands, alongside families and creators, for an immersive end-of-year experience that captured the true spirit of Detty December. 

Hosted in a vibrant open-air setting at Encourage Park, Ikoyi, the festival transformed the venue into a bustling hub of flavour, colour, and sound — offering guests the opportunity to eat, explore, shop, connect, and unwind. Over the course of two days, the festival welcomed over 3,000 attendees, underscoring its growing status as a key fixture on Lagos’ Detty December lifestyle calendar.

Watch highlights from the Foodie in Lagos Festival below. 

A Thoughtfully Curated Food Experience

At the heart of the festival was food and plenty of it. Across two days, the festival’s food vendors delivered a diverse range of offerings spanning Nigerian classics, grills, desserts, street food favourites, cocktails, and contemporary fusion dishes. From familiar crowd favourites to exciting new discoveries, attendees were spoilt for choice as they moved from stall to stall sampling flavours and discovering new brands.

The festival’s layout encouraged exploration, with clearly defined vendor zones and relaxed communal seating that made it easy for guests to enjoy meals with friends and family. Many vendors reported sell-outs across both days, reinforcing the festival’s reputation as a key platform for food businesses looking to connect directly with their audience.

More Than a Food Festival

While food was the star, the Foodie in Lagos Festival delivered much more than just great meals. Live DJ sets by DJ Slymn & Guest DJ Lolahstic kept the energy high throughout the day, while a DJ battle and artiste performances turned the evenings into a lively celebration. A live band performance added a soulful touch, giving guests moments to slow down, sing along, dance, and soak in the atmosphere. The Festival was anchored by Deji Osikoya on Day One, with MC Obinna taking over hosting duties on Day Two, while Oludamee hosted the festival’s red carpet — ensuring seamless flow, high energy, and engaging moments throughout the event on both days.

Interactive brand activations dotted the venue, creating engaging experiences that blended seamlessly into the festival environment. From kids’ play areas and game zones to experiential brand spaces and garden-style seating, brands connected meaningfully with guests without disrupting the flow of the event.

Family-Friendly Fun at the Christmas Village

One of the standout attractions was the Christmas Village, curated in partnership with Tinsel Town and thoughtfully integrated into the festival experience. Designed with families in mind, the village offered a range of festive and creative activities for children, making the festival a truly inclusive event.

Young guests enjoyed bead-making workshops, cookie decorating classes, a Santa Grotto experience, and performances at the Elf Play House Theatre. Pamper sessions by Dermaspace added a gentle wellness element, ensuring both kids and parents could relax and enjoy the moment.

The Christmas Village reflected the festival’s commitment to creating a space where families could participate fully, rather than feeling like an afterthought.

Powered by Strong Brand Partnerships

The Foodie in Lagos Festival was supported by a strong lineup of partners who helped elevate the overall experience. Sponsors including Jameson, Flutterwave, Desperados, Mich & Kay, Nestlé Pure Life, Lagos State Parks & Gardens Agency (LASPARK), Page Asset Management Limited, Luxe Bounce, and 88 Games contributed to the seamless execution of the event.

Media partners BellaNaija, Olori Supergal, and My Lagos App helped amplify the festival’s reach, ensuring moments from the event travelled far beyond the venue.

A Defining Moment for Foodie in Lagos

For Foodie in Lagos, the festival marked a defining milestone, translating over a decade of digital food storytelling into a shared, real-world experience. Founded in 2013, Foodie in Lagos has grown into one of the city’s most trusted voices in food and lifestyle, consistently shaping conversations around where and how Lagos eats.

As the platform’s second festival, the Foodie in Lagos Festival reflected both the depth of its community and the strength of the trust it has built with audiences, vendors, and brands over the years. What began as an online dining guide has evolved into a platform capable of curating large-scale, community-driven experiences that celebrate Lagos’ ever-evolving food culture.

Held on December 17 and 18, 2025, the Foodie in Lagos Festival firmly established itself as a standout on Lagos’ Detty December calendar. Its inclusion in CNN’s 2025 Detty December line-up further underscored the festival’s growing cultural relevance, placing it among the season’s most anticipated food and lifestyle events.

If you missed out on the experience, highlights from the Foodie in Lagos Festival are available to view across Foodie in Lagos’ digital platforms.

For more information, please visit the Website.
Instagram: @foodieinlagos | @foodieinlagosfest
Threads: @foodieinlagos

 

BellaNaija is a Media Partner for Foodie In Lagos

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Ready to settle into something new? There’s fresh music in town, and SND LAB and Star Baba Jay are behind it.

Their new single, “For Your Love,” leans into an easy, mid-tempo sound that sits between contemporary Afrobeats and R&B. From the first few seconds, the track keeps things measured, with SND LAB setting the pace through a steady rhythm and layered instrumentation that unfolds gently as the song progresses.

Star Baba Jay carries the song with a vocal delivery that feels close and intentional. He sings about devotion and emotional openness, taking his time with the lyrics and letting the story lead. Nothing feels rushed here; instead, the track allows space for feeling and reflection.

While rooted in African rhythms, “For Your Love” travels easily beyond borders. It’s the kind of song that fits late-night listening, quiet drives, or moments when you want something familiar but new. The collaboration points to a shared creative direction built on clarity and mood rather than excess.

Listen below

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Photo Credit: Ron Kenoly/Instagram

The world of gospel music lost a giant on 3 February 2026, as Ron Kenoly, the General of Praise, passed away at 81. For many of us here in Nigeria, his songs weren’t just tunes on repeat, they were the soundtrack to our Sunday mornings, the guide for our church choirs, and the heartbeat of countless praise sessions.

Even as we mourn his passing, we can’t help but celebrate the incredible mark he left on worship and music worldwide. To honour his legacy, we’ve rounded up five of our favourite Ron Kenoly anthems — the ones we can’t stop playing, praying along to, and singing at the top of our lungs.

Ancient of Days

This is arguably the definitive Ron Kenoly track. From the moment that orchestral brass intro hits, you know exactly what time it is. Released on the 1992 “Lift Him Up” album, this song became a staple in Nigerian churches, teaching us how to blend reverence with a high-octane tempo. It’s impossible to hear this and not join in the “blessing and honour, glory and power” refrain.

Be Glorified

If you grew up in a household that owned a VHS player, you likely remember the visual of Ron leading a massive congregation in this soulful anthem. It is a song of deep surrender and recognition of sovereignty. Even decades later, the simplicity of the lyrics makes it one of the most effective worship songs ever written.

Mourning Into Dancing

Nobody did “Praise Break” quite like Ron Kenoly. This song is the ultimate mood-shifter. Whenever life felt a bit too heavy, this track served as a reminder that joy is always around the corner. It’s rhythmic, infectious, and continues to be a favourite for anyone who loves a bit of holy footwork.

Anointing Fall on Me

This song takes us back to a place of quiet, sincere prayer. It’s a beautiful departure from his more energetic tracks, focusing instead on the presence and power of the Holy Spirit. In the wake of his passing, many are revisiting this song as a tribute to the grace he carried throughout his five-decade ministry.

Lift Him Up

The title track of his record-breaking 1992 album, this song redefined what contemporary gospel could sound like. It’s a call to action for every believer to exalt the name of Jesus above every situation. It perfectly encapsulates Ron’s mission: to lead the world in one unified voice of praise.

The post 5 Ron Kenoly Songs to Remember the Gospel Legend appeared first on BellaNaija - Showcasing Africa to the world. Read today!.

Jon Batiste in Eleven Sixteen by Ugo Mozie Grammys 2026 custom jacket

Did you catch Jon Batiste at the 2026 Grammys? We’re willing to bet you did, because his looks were impossible to miss. From the moment he stepped out, it was clear this wasn’t just another red carpet appearance — it was fashion with intention.

If you’ve been wondering who was behind those striking, gem-laden ensembles, we’ve got the scoop. Jon Batiste wore not one, but two custom looks by Nigerian-owned fashion brand Eleven Sixteen, designed by stylist and creative force Ugo Mozie, at the 2026 Grammy Awards, a night that also saw the multi-instrumentalist take home the award for Best Americana Album.

Ugo Mozie is no stranger to dressing icons. His impressive portfolio includes styling and designing for the likes of Diana Ross, Leon Thomas, and even Beyoncé and Blue Ivy during the Cowboy Carter era. Closer to home, he’s also worked with Nigerian stars such as Tiwa Savage, Asake, and Flavour. Still, these Grammy looks feel especially meaningful — deeply rooted in faith, heritage and storytelling.

Speaking on the process, Ugo revealed that the pieces were created in collaboration with Gogo Hsu, a master tailor he discovered in Taiwan. He described the journey as a spiritual one, drawing inspiration from biblical imagery, particularly Aaron’s breastplate of gems — as well as ancient mosaic paintings.

For his arrival, Jon Batiste stepped out in a military-inspired black sequined jacket, complete with gold beaded epaulettes, ornate gold trims and closures, and colourful jeweled patches. Pearl-like button details added another layer of texture, while tailored black trousers and Christian Louboutin loafers with gold chain accents completed the look.

Later, he switched into an equally striking second outfit: an all-black sequined long-sleeve shirt adorned with royal blue crystal-embellished horizontal stripes across the chest and decorative jeweled accents. He paired it with black trousers and a gold crystal-embellished belt with dangling details, finishing the look with twisted locs styled high.

According to Ugo, both looks were crafted using over 100,000 Swarovski crystals, pearls, Colombian emeralds and African gemstones sourced from Mina Stones. He described the finished pieces as “spiritual armour in couture form.”

 

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Photo Credit: Ron Kenoly/Instagram

The global Christian community has been hit with news of the passing of a legendary figure in gospel music. Dr Ron Kenoly, the “Professor of Praise” whose ministry defined an era of worship, passed away on Tuesday, 3rd February 2026, at the age of 81.

His longtime music director, Bruno Miranda, shared the news in a statement, confirming that the worship leader passed away peacefully on Tuesday morning. In a moving tribute, Miranda reflected on Kenoly’s unwavering commitment to his calling:

This morning, Feb. 3, 2026, we said goodbye to Dr Ron Kenoly… Doc was very intentional about one thing: he was never an artist, never an entertainer. He was a worship leader.
Today we grieve deeply but not without hope. The worship he lived is now the worship he beholds.

For millennials, it is almost impossible to think back to childhood without Ron Kenoly’s voice in the background. If you grew up in a Nigerian home in the 90s or early 2000s, you likely spent your Sunday mornings or school runs listening to his albums. He brought a vibrant, big-band energy to gospel music that transformed church services across the country. Hits like “Ancient of Days,” “Lift Him Up,” “Jesus Is Alive,” and the deeply spiritual “Anointing Fall On Me” became the gold standard for worship.

The news has led to an outpouring of respect from leaders in the Nigerian gospel scene. Nathaniel Bassey paid homage to the man who paved the way, writing: “Dr Ron Kenoly crosses to yonder side. Thank you for inspiring generations of psalmists like me. I grew up on these songs. And today, others are growing up on ours. Thank you, sir.”

Dunsin Oyekan also shared a tribute to the late icon: “Honouring a General! Rest in Peace Dr Ron Kenoly. An end of an era… You are now singing Forever in His Presence.”

Ron’s excellence was widely recognised. He was a recipient of the GMA Dove Award for Praise and Worship Album of the Year in 1997 for Welcome Home, which also topped the Billboard contemporary worship charts.

Dr Kenoly is survived by his wife, Diana (who also serves as a UN Ambassador), and his three sons: Samuel, Ronald Jr., and Tony, known to many fans as the Kenoly Brothers, as well as several grandchildren.

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Photo Credit: Tyla/Instagram

If your body naturally starts to move the moment a Tyla song comes on, you’re not alone. There’s something about her music that skips over thinking and goes straight to motion — the kind that has you swaying in your seat, practising footwork in your room, or turning the mirror into a mini stage. Tyla makes music that demands the dance floor, and she does it without trying too hard or losing where she’s from.

Now, fresh off the news of her second Grammy win at the 68th Annual Grammy Awards, it feels like the perfect moment to refresh your dance playlist. From smooth Amapiano rhythms to pop moments that still carry groove, Tyla’s sound keeps finding its way into parties, timelines and late-night car rides.

If you’re ready to update your rotation and lean fully into feel-good movement, here are 5 Tyla songs you need on your playlist right now.

Push 2 Start

The song that secured her second Grammy is a mandatory addition. With its clever car metaphors and that signature log drum rhythm, it’s the ultimate high-energy track for when you’re getting ready to head out or need a boost at the gym.

Chanel

Released as a lead single for her highly anticipated second album, “A-Pop,” “Chanel” is pure luxury in audio form. It’s an upbeat, confident anthem about being treated like the prize you are. If you’re feeling yourself, this is the soundtrack.

Jump (feat. Gunna & Skillibeng)

If your playlist needs a bit of edge, this is it. Tyla teams up with American rapper Gunna and Jamaican star Skillibeng for a track that bridges the gap between Johannesburg, Atlanta, and Kingston. It’s gritty, catchy, and guaranteed to get you moving.

Dynamite (feat. Wizkid)

A standout collaboration from her WWP project, this track features our very own Wizkid. The chemistry between the two is undeniable, creating a smooth, mid-tempo groove that is perfect for a sunset drive or a chilled weekend hang.

Water

We couldn’t leave out the classic that started it all. Even years after its release, “Water” remains the blueprint for the Popiano genre. Its breezy, rhythmic flow is timeless and still hits just as hard as the first time we heard it.

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Photo Credit: Shaboozey/Instagram

The 68th Annual Grammy Awards may have drawn to a close, but the historic wins from the night are still reverberating across the global stage. Amongst the most significant highlights was the triumph of Nigerian-American sensation Shaboozey, who solidified his place in music history with a major win.

The artist, born Collins Obinna Chibueze, took home the Grammy for Best Country Duo/Group Performance for the faith-inspired anthem “Amen“, a collaboration with Jelly Roll. It was a milestone moment for the singer, marking his first-ever Grammy trophy and a defining achievement for a talent who has successfully bridged the worlds of country, hip-hop, and his West African heritage.

Taking to Instagram to share his joy, Shaboozey posted a series of celebratory photos, including one showing off his dental grill while clutching his golden gramophone. He accompanied the post with a deeply personal caption:

I won my first Grammy yesterday, and I can say so far I don’t think anything will beat the feeling. I’ve experienced every wave of emotion!! Real tears yall. Thank you @recordingacademy for giving this Virginia boy and child of an immigrant a Grammy!

The emotion of the night was palpable during his acceptance speech at the Peacock Theater. Overwhelmed with gratitude, he shared that his mother had retired from her nursing career of 30 years that very same day—a career she worked across multiple jobs to support him and his four siblings. He broadened the dedication to the immigrant community at large, delivering a moving message:

“This is for all children of immigrants. This is also for those who came to this country in search of a better opportunity… Thank you for bringing your culture, your music, your stories and your tradition here. You give America colour. Immigrants built this country, literally.”

If you’re wondering who Shaboozey is, here are five fun facts you should know about him:

• That Iconic Name: His stage name is a play on his Nigerian surname, Chibueze, which means “God is King”. It originated from a high school football coach who struggled with the pronunciation.
• Naija Boarding School Days: Although born in northern Virginia, he spent two years attending boarding school in Nigeria during his junior high years—an experience he credits for his multicultural perspective.
• The Igbo Heritage: He is of Igbo descent and has often spoken about the sacrifices his parents made when they moved from Nigeria to the United States to provide a better future for their family.
• Chart-Topping History: He made history as the first Black male artist to top both the Billboard Hot 100 and the Hot Country Songs chart simultaneously with the global smash “A Bar Song (Tipsy).”
• A Beyoncé Favourite: Before his solo Grammy win, he gained massive acclaim for his standout features on Beyoncé’s Cowboy Carter album, appearing on tracks like “Spaghettii” and “Sweet Honey Buckiin’.”

 

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