History was made on the world stage this week, and we need to talk about it.

Alexia Jayy, a 31-year-old R&B singer from Alabama, became The Voice’s first Black woman champion on 14th April, claiming victory across the show’s entire 15-year history. Let that sink in. Fifteen years, twenty-nine seasons, and it took this woman from a small town in Alabama to finally break that ceiling wide open.

She competed on Team Adam, handing coach Adam Levine his fourth career win, and if you watched that finale, you know it was never really in question. Her finale performances of Patti LaBelle‘s “Lady Marmalade” and Adele‘s “One and Only” brought the coaching panel to their feet, and before the winner was announced, she joined Levine on stage for a duet of his Maroon 5 classic “Sunday Morning.”

Alexia’s journey to that stage began at the Blind Auditions, where her rendition of Aretha Franklin’s “(You Make Me Feel Like) a Natural Woman” earned a chair turn from all three coaches. She chose Adam, partly because her 9-year-old son Matthew is a devoted Maroon 5 fan, which is one of the sweetest origin stories in competition television. From there, she moved through the Battle Round, the Knockouts, and the Semis with a consistency that made her the one to watch all season. Kelly Clarkson compared her tone to Whitney Houston and Lauryn Hill, a pairing that tells you everything you need to know about the kind of voice Alexia carries.

But here’s what makes this story even richer: Alexia Jayy was already building something long before The Voice cameras found her. She sang background vocals for Muni Long on The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon in 2022 — a moment she described as one of the most significant of her career, one that people from her small hometown simply don’t get. And earlier this year, she performed alongside Leon Bridges as part of Lauryn Hill‘s Grammy tribute to Roberta Flack at the 68th Annual Grammy Awards.

Away from the competition, she released her debut single “Who Raised You” in 2021, and her debut EP “Mixed Emotions” followed in September 2025. She is also a mother, her son Matthew, now 9, watched her stop and start over the years, and according to Alexia, he never once stopped being proud of her.

As winner, Alexia walks away with $100,000 and a record deal with Republic Records, a label under Universal Music Group. Her new single “Rent Free” dropped immediately following her win, produced by Grammy winners Jack Splash and Jim Jonsin, the people behind records for Kendrick Lamar, Alicia Keys, and Beyoncé. In Alexia’s own words, the song is about knowing your worth: “Sometimes people don’t realise what they had until it’s gone, and by then you’ve already moved on. But somehow, you’re still the one on their mind.”

 

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If you’re a millennial, the name “Yemi My Lover” probably takes you straight back to the golden era of Yoruba cinema and the unforgettable Tajudeen Oyewole. It is one of those pop culture references that never really leaves the conversation. And now, Yemi Alade is giving the name a fresh spin with her new single, “Yemi Mi Lova,” featuring Spyro.

From the very first listen, this one feels easy, sweet and made for repeat play. “Yemi Mi Lova” is a cheerful love song about being completely taken by someone and wanting the whole world to know it. It carries that warm, affectionate feeling of finding your person and enjoying every second of it. The call-and-response style also makes it the kind of track you find yourself singing along to before the song is even over.

Spyro sets the tone with lines like, “I no go lie, I be your number one fan… Anything you want, I go give you double,” bringing that familiar Afropop sweetness fans know him for. Then Yemi Alade steps in with the confidence and charm she wears so well, delivering her lines with ease. When she sings, “Oun lo n dun mi l’okan… You be the only one I’m seeing,” it adds a lovely nod to deep, expressive romance in a way that feels both playful and sincere.

With “Yemi Mi Lova,” Yemi Alade and Spyro have delivered a feel-good track that celebrates love, nostalgia and the joy of a catchy chorus. Whether you remember the original “Yemi My Lover” era or you are hearing the reference for the first time, this one is easy to enjoy.

Listen below

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If there was ever a moment to turn up the volume and celebrate the sheer brilliance of Nigerian musical heritage, it is right now. The Rock & Roll Hall of Fame has officially announced its Class of 2026, and the news is nothing short of legendary: both Sade Adu and the late Fela Anikulapo–Kuti are being inducted. Coming off the back of Fela’s recent Grammy Lifetime Achievement Award, this double win feels like a long-overdue global embrace of the sounds that started in Lagos and conquered the world.

To understand the weight of this moment, one must look at what the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame represents. Established in 1983 and headquartered in Cleveland, Ohio, the institution is dedicated to archiving the history of the most influential artists, producers, and engineers who have shaped the course of popular music. Induction is not merely a popularity contest; it is a recognition of a permanent contribution to the energy and evolution of the industry. To be eligible, an artist must have released their first commercial recording at least 25 years prior to induction, and they are judged on their musical excellence, innovation, and the depth of their influence on other creators.

Our icons are entering through two distinct, equally prestigious doors. After her second nomination, the Queen of Cool herself, Sade Adu, and her band have been inducted in the Performer Category. Known for that timeless, “Quiet Storm” sophistication, Sade continues to be a primary reference point for the global music scene. Simultaneously, in a massive move for music history, the Abami Eda is being honoured with the Early Influence Award. This category is specifically reserved for artists whose spirit and sound directly laid the foundation for the music that followed, and Fela’s pioneer role in Afrobeat makes him the perfect recipient.

The induction ceremony is set to be a cinematic affair, taking place on Saturday, 14 November 2026, at the Peacock Theater in Los Angeles. Sade and Fela will share the stage with a heavy-hitting class that includes Oasis, Mariah Carey, Luther Vandross, Wu-Tang Clan, Phil Collins, and Lauryn Hill. For those watching from home, the ceremony will be broadcast on ABC and Disney+ later in December

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Do you remember when we told you that Adekunle Gold and Olamide were cooking something in the studio right? Turns out that we were right! The wait is officially over as the duo has finally released their highly anticipated new single, “Formation.”

This fresh collaboration sees AG Baby and Baddo reuniting to deliver a sleek, mid-tempo record that perfectly blends soulful high-life influences with modern Afrobeats. It is a sophisticated, “cool” track that focuses on staying in one’s lane and maintaining focus—a vibe that is already resonating with fans across the continent.

Whether you are a day-one supporter of their chemistry or just looking for a new anthem for your playlist, “Formation” is definitely the track to have on repeat this week.

Listen to the song below

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On Sunday April 5 at ThisDay Dome, Abuja, Heineken staged Young Jonn Live in Abuja as one of the centerpieces of the Nigerian Breweries Big Fiesta campaign in the capital — and from the moment Young Jonn took the stage, it was clear this was not just a concert. It was a celebration of Nigerian creativity at its most electric, powered by the brand that has made it its mission to curate unforgettable experiences across the country’s most vibrant cities.

Young Jonn performed to a crowd that knew every record — and given his discography, that meant a night of wall-to-wall Afrobeats classics. The Grammy-nominated producer and hitmaker moved through his catalogue with the ease of someone who has spent years crafting the sounds that define a generation.

The event brought together fans and music lovers for a high-energy performance that showcased Young Jonn’s dynamic stage presence and hit-filled catalogue.

Throughout the night, Heineken provided the backdrop that a performance of this scale deserved — a premium atmosphere, ice-cold Heinekens in hand, and the kind of energy that only happens when great music meets a city that has been waiting for its moment.

Young Jonn Live was the capital’s Easter celebration done right — proof that Abuja’s cultural scene is as alive and as deserving of the spotlight as anywhere in Nigeria. Heineken made sure of it.

Abuja came alive as the crowd sang along, celebrated and experienced the energy that only a Heineken-curated night can deliver.

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Do you know that Osas Ighodaro and Johnny Drille are cousins? You did? Oh no! Why didn’t you tell us? Oh, you didn’t? We didn’t either! Imagine our surprise when we saw the two on a podcast together, finally addressing the million-dollar question that has been lingering around their shared surname for years.

In a new podcast, THE BTML POD, the pair sat down for a chat that felt less like a formal interview and more like a long-overdue family catch-up. The highlight of the sit-down was a comedic attempt to clarify their relationship. After a quick countdown to reveal the truth, they ended up giving completely different answers at the same time—Johnny went with a firm “No” while Osas opted for a “Yes”—leaving everyone in fits of laughter.

To clear up any lingering confusion, they reintroduced themselves using their full legal names. “I go by the name John Ighodaro,” the singer noted, followed quickly by Osas confirming her own identity as Osas Ighodaro. While they might be pulling our legs about the cousin status, the camaraderie between them is undeniable.

The conversation eventually shifted towards the music. It has been five years since Johnny released his debut album, “Before We Fall Asleep,” a timeline that Osas was quick to point out. While Johnny admitted he isn’t quite sure why the gap has been so long, he was firm on one thing: you cannot rush the craft.

The wait, however, is nearly over. Johnny shared that a new album is officially on the way, and he isn’t being modest about it. He claims this upcoming project is the best bit of work anyone is going to hear.

We’re keeping our ears open for that album release date, but for now, we’re just enjoying the fact that the Ighodaro duo finally put those surname rumours to bed, sort of.

Watch the full video below

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In the world of Afrobeats, few stories are as poignant as the rise of the YBNL dynasty. This week, Adekunle Gold took us down memory lane while looking toward the future, announcing a new single with his mentor and former label boss, Olamide.

Can we talk about the fashion for a second? The pair went full 70s-chic in a garage filled with vintage hubcaps and golden lighting. AG Baby gave us sophisticated “Boss” energy in an oversized brown blazer, while Olamide served a major look in mustard yellow and flared trousers. The car is a classic Mercedes with a custom “YBNL” plate. It’s giving “Rich Uncles,” and we are here for it.

But it’s not all just about the aesthetic. Adekunle Gold got real with his fans about how much Olamide means to him. He shared that back in 2014, Olamide was the one who gave him his big break, taking him from a dreamer in Lagos to a global star. If you remember singing “Sade” at the top of your lungs back in 2015, you know how huge this is.

The new track is called “Formation” (no, not that one, Beyoncé fans!) and it arrives on 9 April. Gold says it’s all about “legacy and brotherhood.” Honestly we just can’t wait to see what these two have cooked up. Mark your calendars, because the kings of YBNL are back together

 

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After the success of his debut album, “Boy Alone“, Omah Lay took a long break before releasing another project. It’s been four years since Omah Lay released his debut album, and now he’s back with his second, “Clarity of Mind,” a 12-track album.

“Clarity of Mind” arrives as a bold, deeply personal body of work which captures Omah Lay in a state of awareness. From previous releases, Omah Lay’s songs have always sounded deeply personal and spiritual, reaching into the deepest of his heart to make music. This new album feels like a confession of an artist who has found clarity of mind.

Stream the album below:

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There’s a new era loading for Alexandar Iwobi, and it’s not happening on the pitch.

On April 9th, the football star is stepping into a whole new space with the release of his debut EP, “More To Life.”

The project gives us a glimpse into a different side of him—creative, expressive, and clearly open to exploring something new. Across nine tracks, Iwobi brings together a mix of collaborators, including Teniola Time, Giddi, P17, SPKS, and Fido, creating a project that feels full, layered, and very intentional.

There’s “Bussdown,” featuring Teniola Time, Giddi, and 4AM—already sounding like one of those tracks you’ll want on repeat—and “Joanna,” featuring Fido, which is bound to catch listeners’ attention. Add in multiple appearances from P17 and SPKS across the project, and you get a cohesive but varied listening experience.

See the tracklist:

• Mine (ft. 24AM)
• Bussdown (ft. Teniola Time, 4AM & Giddi)
• Joanna (ft. Fido)
• Proper (Freestyle) (ft. P17 & SPKS)
• Double Double (ft. P17 & SPKS)
• By My Side (ft. P17 & SPKS)
• Joga Bonito (ft. P17 & SPKS)
• Letter

And then there’s “Joga Bonito”—a phrase that instantly brings football to mind. It’s a subtle reminder that even as he steps into music, his roots are still very much part of the story.

 

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There are certain songs you don’t just listen to, you grow up with. For a lot of people, that includes a Céline Dion ballad. Whether it’s “The Power of Love” or “My Heart Will Go On,” her voice has been part of the soundtrack for decades, all the way back to her Eurovision debut in 1988.

Which is why the past few years have felt noticeably quiet.

In 2022, Céline revealed she had been diagnosed with Stiff-Person Syndrome, a rare autoimmune condition that causes muscle stiffness. She later cancelled her Courage world tour, stepping away from the stage to focus on her health—and leaving fans around the world wondering when they might see her again.

Now, she’s finally sharing an update, and it’s a good one.

Marking her 58th birthday, Céline posted a video message looking relaxed in olive-green trousers and a sheer black blouse, with news that feels like a full-circle moment: she’s returning to the stage.

“Wow, it’s been kind of hard keeping it a secret from myself,” she said, laughing, before giving a health update that felt both honest and hopeful. “I want to let you know that I’m doing great, managing my health, feeling good, I’m singing again, even doing a bit of dancing obviously you know I love it so much.”

She also took a moment to thank fans who have stayed with her through everything. “Over these last few years, every day that’s gone by, I’ve felt your prayers and support, your kindness and love,” she said. “Even in my most difficult times you were there for me. You’ve helped me in ways that I can’t even describe and I’m truly so fortunate to have your support.”

So where is she heading first? Paris.

Starting 12 September, Céline will perform ten shows over five weeks at the Paris La Défense Arena—a major return in a city that has always shown her love right back.

“This year I’m getting the best gift of my life. I’m getting the chance to see you, to perform for you once again in Paris beginning in September this year,” she shared.

There’s still no cure for Stiff-Person Syndrome, but treatments have clearly made enough of a difference for her to step back into performing, and she’s being open about how that feels. “I’m feeling good, I’m strong, I’m feeling excited, obviously of course a little nervous, but most of all I am grateful to all of you. I can’t wait to see you again.”

She signed off with, “Well, happy birthday to me,” and it really does feel like one.

Will you be making the trip to Paris to witness Céline’s return this September?

 

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We bet you have listened to “What You Need” a countless number of times, it might even be on repeat on your favourite playlist right now, but have you watched Tems perform it live? Because the Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon version is something else entirely.

Standing at the microphone with a live band and backup singers behind her, Tems delivered an unhurried, completely assured performance of the track that made the television studio feel far more intimate than it had any right to. No theatrics, no distractions. Just her voice, the song, and a room that went very still for all the right reasons.

The look she arrived in held its own just as well. Styled by Dunsin Wrights, she wore a floor-length white strapless gown with a fitted mermaid silhouette that opened into soft layers of gathered tulle at the hem. The bodice carried a textured, ruffled edge at the neckline, and a dramatic tulle overlay swept across the hip and fell to one side, adding movement without disrupting the clean lines of the dress. Makeup by Kayla Perez and hair by Ashanti Lation rounded it all out — full curls worn loose, balancing the formality of the gown. Everything about it was built for a stage.

“What You Need” was written and produced by Tems alongside her frequent collaborator GuiltyBeatz, and centres on declaring independence from a relationship that simply is not working — “I’m better on my own, you’re better when you’re gone.” It is taken from “Love Is a Kingdom,” her third EP, surprise-released in November 2025 via RCA Records — her first solo release since debut album “Born in the Wild” in 2024.Across seven tracks produced almost entirely by Tems herself, the project moves through love in all its forms — self-love, suspicious love, spiritual love, the love you hold onto and the love you walk away from.

If you have not watched it yet, now is your moment.

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We are not jealous of the people who were inside Co-op Live arena in Manchester on 26 March watching Tiwa Savage perform at the 2026 MOBO Awards and hearing an unreleased song from her for the very first time. We are completely fine. But if you are a Tiwa Savage fan and you were not there, we think it is safe to say you missed a great deal. Do not worry, we have got you with all the details.

On the red carpet, Tiwa arrived in a structured, architectural floor-length off-the-shoulder dress covered in 3D metallic geometric tiles in silver that gave the whole look a sculptural, mirror-like finish. A short pixie cut with soft finger waves, clean glowing makeup with a nude glossy lip and chunky diamond rings completed the red-carpet moment. She also told the host exactly what 2026 is the year of for her: “MONEY,” she said. No hesitation whatsoever.

For the performance, everything changed. She came out in a cropped multi-coloured leather biker jacket in chocolate brown, black and yellow, worn over a bright yellow bandeau top, a heavily embellished dark mini-skirt with gold hardware and oversized grommets, a white faux-fur attachment at the waist and white and yellow boxing-style boots. Layered chunky gold necklaces and statement gold earrings kept the luxury element running through the whole look.

The set was a masterful two-part medley. She opened with a soulful, stripped-back rendition of “You4Me,” reminding everyone of her incredible vocal range, before a “coin drop” moment shifted the gear entirely.

The transition into her unreleased song “Energy” was a full production—a troupe of dancers in monochromatic red streetwear, Afro-fusion choreography, architectural stage arches and bold lighting shifting from deep purples to fiery reds. It was Tiwa Savage at full capacity and Manchester felt every bit of it.

Watch below:

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Remember when we told you that Grammy-winning legend Angélique Kidjo and our own “Celestial Being” Ayra Starr were cooking something special in the studio? Well, the wait is over, and it turns out not even a literal storm could stop this collaboration.

Taking to Instagram to share the backstory, Angélique revealed that the duo joined forces at the iconic Power Station Recording Studio in New York on 22 February—the day of the “Blizzard of the Century.” Despite the freezing winds outside, the energy inside was pure fire. “Not even a storm could have prevented us from singing and dancing together! Aye Kan (Are You Coming Back?) was born!” the legend shared.

The track is a vibrant, cross-generational anthem that explores the balance between “jaye” (living the life) and the hustle. Ayra Starr brings her signature flair to the lyrics, weaving between English and Yoruba with lines like “Awon kan jaye, awon kan si ma ja waya”—a reminder of the diverse rhythms of life.

The production credits read like a Mavin Records dream team, with Louddaaa handling the beat and the multi-talented Johnny Drille delivering a soulful depth mix.

Watch the official video for “Aye Kan (Are You Coming Back?)” below:

Watch below

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Last week in Pretoria felt like one of those moments you know will be talked about long after the lights go down. Global Citizen brought its Move Afrika tour to South Africa for the first time, and with Doja Cat headlining, it was never going to be a quiet arrival.

The night carried a certain weight. For Doja Cat, it marked her first performance on a South African stage, but not her first connection to the country. “For a place I’ve never been to, it feels like I’ve been here before,” she told the crowd, before moving through a set that included “Paint The Town Red,” “Woman,” and “Kiss Me More.” It was a full-circle moment in more ways than one, but the story here goes beyond the music.

Move Afrika, now in its third year, is being positioned as a long-term effort to build a proper touring circuit for international artists across the continent, in partnership with pgLang and Kendrick Lamar. The idea is simple but ambitious: invest in infrastructure, create jobs, support local talent, and open up more opportunities within the live events space. Since 2023, the tour has created over 3,000 job opportunities across Kigali, Lagos and Pretoria.

In Pretoria, that approach was visible from the ground up. Working with local partner Big Concerts, the entire production was delivered using a 100 percent local crew and equipment. It was a clear demonstration of what is already possible within South Africa’s live events industry when the right investment and trust are in place. Local vendor Mushroom Productions also played a key role in bringing the show together.

That focus on local capacity extended to young people looking to enter the industry. Through the Youth Technical Production Pathway, launched in partnership with Gearhouse South Africa Group and the Gearhouse Kentse Mpahlwa Academy, ten young people from Johannesburg and Pretoria, aged between 18 and 26, received hands-on training in lighting, audio-visual systems and stage rigging. They were also part of the build for Doja Cat’s show, giving them direct exposure to what it takes to deliver a production at that scale. The programme is designed as a pathway into accredited training and long-term careers in live event production.

From Pretoria, the story moves to Kigali, where the same vision is taking shape in a different context. Move Afrika: Kigali, delivered with Done and Dusted and the Rwanda Events Group, has steadily increased its use of local crew, moving from 75 percent in 2023 to nearly full localisation in 2026. A small group of international specialists supported the production, providing training and technical guidance along the way.

The scale of what was built in Kigali this year says a lot about that progress. The entire stage was sourced locally, including 880 LED panels, making it one of the most ambitious productions ever staged in Rwanda. Audio and lighting fixtures were 98 percent locally sourced, while rigging was 95 percent provided locally, installed alongside partners from the UK’s Unusual Rigging. Local crews also worked closely with teams from PRG and Done+Dusted across different areas of production.

There was also a strong focus on safety and operations. Local private security teams received additional training through a collaboration between Crowd Minders and Global Citizen’s Safety and Security training team, with Cohort Security Group delivering a tailored programme to more than 112 personnel. The training covered pit management, backstage security protocols and scene management, all aligned with international standards.

Beyond the technical side, the tour continues to open up opportunities within hospitality and the wider events space. Through its partnership with the Harambee Youth Employment Accelerator, Move Afrika has trained over 120 young people in Rwanda since 2023, giving them experience across event production, hospitality and the creative industries. This year, some participants moved into paid roles through collaborations with local businesses, including female-led enterprise The Financial Boutique, which employed five youth ambassadors in operational positions.

Back in Pretoria, the stage also made room for homegrown talent, with performances from Moonchild Sanelly and The Joy adding another layer to the night. It is part of a wider approach that places African artists alongside international acts, rather than as an afterthought.

For a long time, Africa has sat at the edges of the global touring map, often left out of major circuits. Move Afrika is attempting to change that by building the structures that make large-scale touring possible, while still delivering the kind of live shows audiences expect.

As the music carried through Pretoria, it was clear that something larger is taking shape. The performances may draw the crowds, but it is the systems behind them that will determine what comes next—and right now, those systems are being built in real time.

See more photos:

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Do you know Angélique Kidjo and Ayra Starr have been cooking something in the studio? Don’t worry, this Friday, you get to feast on a single from the duo. Now, the secret is officially out.

The five-time Grammy Award winner has confirmed that Ayra Starr is the special guest on her upcoming single, “Aye Kan (Are You Coming Back?)”. She shared the news on social media alongside a glimpse into their studio session, adding that they had “so much fun” putting the track together. From the dancing in the video, it’s easy to see what she means.

This collaboration has been a long time coming. The two first set the internet buzzing earlier this year when they met at the MusiCares Person of the Year gala in Los Angeles. Seeing the Beninese legend and the Nigerian star share a moment on the red carpet, with Ayra in a champagne corset gown, had many hoping for a musical link-up. It turns out they got to work not long after.

For Ayra Starr, this is another big moment in a busy year. She is still riding the wave of her latest single, “Where Do We Go,” and a collaboration with a global icon like Kidjo further reinforces her place as one of the continent’s most exciting voices.

As for the “Queen of African Music,” this release sets the tone for what’s ahead. The single leads into Angélique’s highly anticipated 19th studio album, “Hope!!,” arriving on 24 April. The project also features names like Davido and The Cavemen, making it one to look out for.

Mark your calendars for Friday, 27 March. Something tells us this one will be on repeat for a while.

 

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Getting married soon and wondering how you and your boo will pose for the cameras? If you are currently staring at a blank Pinterest board, Falz has stepped in as the unlikely creative director for your pre-wedding shoot.

To promote his latest single, “Omoge,” the rapper shared a look at a studio session that is less about traditional romance and more about having a bit of a laugh. Dressed in a sprawling turquoise and silver lace Agbada, Falz is seen larking about with a model who is wearing a lace buba, a matching knee-length wrapper, and a structural Gele.

The two move through a series of increasingly ridiculous poses. At one point, Falz is on the floor acting as a human footrest, and later, the model is seen sitting on his back while he is on all fours. As Falz put it himself: “Pre-wedding shoot inspo? I got you.”

Beyond the antics, the song itself is a massive nod to our musical heritage. “Omoge” samples the legendary Juju icon Sir Shina Peters, borrowing the title and the unmistakable bounce of the original. It is a nostalgic, highlife-heavy track that feels like the perfect soundtrack for a celebration—even if your own pre-wedding photos end up being a little more conventional.

Listen to the track below and watch the video for some couple poses inspiration

 

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The post Pre-Wedding Shoot Inspo? Falz Has You Covered With the Visuals for His New Single “Omoge” appeared first on BellaNaija - Showcasing Africa to the world. Read today!.

Cardi B has been having quite the week and she stopped by The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon to talk about all of it — the sold-out Madison Square Garden shows, flying over a crowd despite being afraid of heights and the haircare line she has been working on for three years.

Ahead of her back-to-back performances at the iconic New York arena on 25th and 26th March, Cardi sat down with Fallon to talk about what it means to sell out the most iconic arena in her hometown. “It is really exciting,” she told him. “But today I have been very annoyed because everybody wants tickets — 40 people from my mum’s side, 30 people from my dad’s side, all my friends, friends from high school, friends from the projects, friends from the Bronx, friends from Brooklyn. I’m so overwhelmed.”

The Little Miss Drama Tour, which kicked off on 11th February 2026 at Acrisure Arena in Palm Desert, California, is Cardi’s first ever headlining arena tour and she has been going all out for it. At one point during the show she literally flies over the crowd, which she does despite being genuinely afraid of heights. She does it for the fans though. “I make sure that it is like a party,” she told Fallon. “If I could give free liquor out, I would.” On flying over the crowd she was equally direct — she does it “for the plot,” she admits, because she always has to go over the top with her audience even if that means “risking your own life.” The tour has already drawn surprise guest appearances from Megan Thee Stallion, GloRilla, Kehlani and Tyla, and Madison Square Garden was waiting to see who would show up on the New York nights.

With the ten-year anniversary of “Bodak Yellow” approaching, Fallon asked what advice she would give her younger self. Her response was classic Cardi: “I would tell myself, why are you arguing with people on Twitter? Why are you doing that, girl?” While she hasn’t retired from the platform entirely, she noted that she has significantly scaled back her time spent there.

She also used the appearance to introduce her new haircare line Grow-Good Beauty. Developed over three years in partnership with Revolve Group, the brand draws on her Dominican heritage and the DIY hair routines she has shared with fans online for years.

Watch below

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If you have been following Nigerian gospel music for any length of time, you already know that when Dunsin Oyekan and Theophilus Sunday get into a room together, something special tends to come out of it. These two have built a body of collaborative work that covers a lot of ground, from spontaneous worship moments to deeply intentional recordings, and every single one of them is worth your time.

With their latest release “Baruch Hashem Adonai” giving the gospel music community plenty to talk about, now feels like the perfect moment to go back through what they have built together. Here are five collaborations to add to your playlist immediately.

Ogo 

“Ogo” means glory in Yoruba, and this song delivers exactly that from start to finish. Released in 2023, this was one of the earlier collaborations between the two ministers and it set the tone for everything that came after. Dunsin has shared that the song was born out of a spontaneous moment of worship during a recording session, when he felt a portal open in the spirit and called Theophilus on stage to declare it over the nations. The result is a song built around a simple, repetitive declaration — “Ogo, ogo, hallelujah, to the Lamb” — that somehow gets more compelling every time it loops. Put it on and see how long it takes before your hands go up.

Emperor of the Universe 

Released in January 2024 as part of Dunsin Oyekan’s album “The Great Commission,” “Emperor of the Universe” is the kind of collaboration that reminds you why both of these ministers carry the weight they do. At over sixteen minutes long, it is not a song you put on in passing. It is a song you sit with, and it rewards every minute of that attention. Theophilus Sunday’s contribution on this track adds a layer that makes the whole thing feel like a full worship experience rather than just a recorded song.

You Are Worthy

This collaboration is a masterclass in lead-and-response worship. “You Are Worthy” captures a raw, unscripted essence where Dunsin and Theophilus trade verses that center entirely on the sovereignty of God. It is a song that doesn’t rely on complex production, instead leaning into the vocal strength and spiritual conviction of both men. It has become a staple for those looking to deep-dive into a focused atmosphere of reverence.

Who Is Like You Oh Lord

In “Who Is Like You Oh Lord,” the two ministers lean into a scriptural declaration of God’s incomparable nature. This track highlights the chemistry between Dunsin’s high-energy delivery and Theophilus’s deep, prophetic chants. The song builds steadily, moving from a quiet acknowledgement to a loud, triumphant shout. It is one of those tracks that feels just as fresh on the fiftieth listen as it did on the first.

Baruch Hashem Adonai 

Their most recent collaboration and the one that has the gospel music community talking right now. “Baruch Hashem Adonai,” which means “Blessed is He who comes in the Name of the Lord” in Hebrew, draws from the cry that welcomed Jesus during His triumphant entry into Jerusalem and presents it as a present-day declaration. Dunsin described it as a prophetic sound meant to echo from family altars to nations, and with both their voices on it, the song carries every bit of that intention. A fitting addition to a collaborative catalogue that just keeps growing.

The post 5 Dunsin Oyekan & Theophilus Sunday Collaborations You Need on Your Playlist Right Now appeared first on BellaNaija - Showcasing Africa to the world. Read today!.

Kehlani just walked the Jennifer Hudson Show spirit tunnel and the hallway was absolutely not ready for her.

If you have never seen the spirit tunnel before, here is the idea — a narrow, lively backstage hallway lined on both sides with the show’s staff and dancers, all there for one reason: to make the incoming guest feel every bit of the love in that corridor before they even step foot on the main stage. And when Kehlani walked through it, the hallway gave her everything it had.

She arrived in a monochromatic grey suit, a structured oversized blazer cinched at the waist with a matching belt, paired with a grey mini skirt. Deep burgundy sheer tights and matching burgundy pointed-toe heels added a rich, bold contrast to the grey, and her long loose waves, neck tattoos and hand tattoos rounded the whole look out with an edge that cut through the polished tailoring beautifully. She looked sharp, she looked cool and she looked completely unbothered in the best possible way.

The hallway crew came with a harmonised, soulful chant tailored just for her: “Kehlani’s at JHud, you know we love her! She’s walking down the hall, so we gotta turn up! A Grammy winner, she’s the best… Kehlani’s at JHud!” The staff were stepping, clapping and waving their hands in unison on both sides, turning the corridor into a full performance in its own right.

And Kehlani? She matched every single bit of it. She started with a confident, rhythmic strut, vibing to the live vocals, and as the chant peaked she broke into sharp, coordinated hand movements and a body roll that had the whole hallway losing it. She was smiling, she was laughing with the crew and she was fully in the moment from the first step to the last. By the time she pushed through the On Air doors to the main stage, the spirit tunnel had done exactly what it was built to do.

Watch her walk below.

 

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The post Watch Kehlani Turn JHud’s Spirit Tunnel Into a Full-On Party appeared first on BellaNaija - Showcasing Africa to the world. Read today!.

After months of anticipation following that historic Red Bull Symphonic performance in Brooklyn, Asake has officially released “Worship” (also known as Alhamdulilah) featuring French-Algerian powerhouse DJ Snake.

The song isn’t your typical high-tempo Afrobeats rager; instead, it’s an atmospheric, mid-tempo record that leans heavily into Asake’s reflective and spiritual side. Lyrically, “Worship” is a song of gratitude and resilience. Asake uses the verses to acknowledge his journey from the streets of Lagos to global stages, centering the track around the refrain of “Alhamdulillah.”

Bringing DJ Snake into the mix adds a massive global layer to the sound. For those who only know him for “Lean On” or “Taki Taki,” Snake is a Grammy-nominated producer with a deep history of blending electronic music with diverse cultural sounds. Born in a Parisian banlieue to Algerian parents, he has spent the last year diving back into his North African roots with his new album, “Nomad.” On “Worship,” he trades his usual heavy trap drops for a cinematic, percussive arrangement that lets Asake’s Fuji-style vocal layers really breathe.

The music video, which matches the song’s gravity, moves away from the typical flashy “Mr. Money” tropes. Instead, it features striking desert imagery and a more grounded, ritualistic aesthetic that mirrors the song’s themes of faith and focus. It’s a deliberate pivot for Asake, arriving just as he returned from Saudi Arabia after performing Umrah, making the track feel like a very public, very intentional “Alhamdulillah” for this stage of his life.

The post Asake & DJ Snake Drop “Worship” and It Hits on a Deeper Level appeared first on BellaNaija - Showcasing Africa to the world. Read today!.