If you have spent any time on the internet over the last few years, chances are you have come across the Ghetto Kids. The Ugandan dance group’s high-energy performances have a definitive way of stopping people mid-scroll. Recently, the group brought their signature choreography to “Dai Dai,” the official 2026 FIFA World Cup anthem by Shakira and Burna Boy.

As the world prepares for their upcoming appearance alongside Shakira at the World Cup final halftime show at MetLife Stadium on 19 July, here are five essential facts about the Kampala creators who made it to football’s ultimate stage.

They grew up in the Katwe slums of Kampala

Founded in 2014 by Dauda Kavuma, the Ghetto Kids began in the Katwe slums of Kampala, Uganda. Kavuma’s foundation has provided shelter, nutrition, and education to street children since 2007, using music, dance, and drama as a sustainable pathway to a better life. The group currently supports 60 children between the ages of 4 and 16, all coming from underprivileged backgrounds.

A viral 2014 video changed everything

The group first secured international attention after a homemade dance routine to Ugandan star Eddy Kenzo‘s hit track “Sitya Loss” went viral online. Their digital footprint expanded significantly in 2017 when they teamed up with Rwanda-born choreographer Sherrie Silver for a routine to Angolan musician Dotorado Pro’s Afro-house track “Marimba Rija,” gathering over 25 million views and establishing a permanent global audience.

They made Britain’s Got Talent history

The Ghetto Kids became a global talking point when they earned a Golden Buzzer mid-performance on Britain’s Got Talent—marking the first time in the franchise’s history that the buzzer was pressed before an act had even finished their routine. The moment introduced their story to a massive European audience and ultimately propelled them to the competition’s finals.

They have commanded global stages for years

Their upcoming stadium performance is part of a long history of high-profile appearances. The group famously featured in French Montana’s multi-platinum “Unforgettable” music video, performed at events during the 2022 World Cup in Qatar, and made their Norwegian debut at the Oslo Business Forum in September 2025. Their accolades include an AFRIMMA Award, a YouTube Creators Award, and official recognition from the Recording Industry Association of America (RIAA).

They are co-starring in the 2026 FIFA World Cup Final

The group’s relationship with Shakira evolved from a viral dance challenge they created for one of her tracks, eventually landing them a featured slot in the official Hannah Lux Davis-directed music video for “Dai Dai” alongside Burna Boy. Now, Shakira has confirmed the Ghetto Kids will join her live on stage at New Jersey’s MetLife Stadium for the halftime show on 19 July—placing the Kampala dancers in front of a global television audience expected to exceed one billion viewers

 

View this post on Instagram

 

A post shared by Shakira (@shakira)

The post 5 Things to Know About Uganda’s Ghetto Kids Ahead of Their 2026 World Cup Final Performance appeared first on BellaNaija - Showcasing Africa to the world. Read today!.

Michael Jackson has not released a new song since his passing in 2009. He has not toured, has not done press, and has not dropped a single new release. And yet, as of 1st May 2026, he is the number one global digital artist in the world, sitting ahead of Justin Bieber, BTS, Bad Bunny, Taylor Swift, Bruno Mars, Drake, and Rihanna.

The reason is Michael, the long-awaited biopic directed by Antoine Fuqua and starring Jackson’s nephew Jaafar Jackson in the title role, which opened on 24th April 2026 in the United States. The film opened to $97 million in its first weekend in North America alone, setting a new record for the biggest opening weekend ever for a biographical film. It has since grossed over $423 million worldwide, making it the highest-grossing music biopic ever made for an American artist and the second highest-grossing music biopic of all time, behind only Bohemian Rhapsody.

The chart impact has been swift and significant. Jackson now sits at number one on Kworb’s Global Digital Artist Ranking, a widely followed tracker that measures artist activity across Apple Music, Spotify, iTunes, YouTube, Shazam, and Deezer, with 8,628 points and holding the position for three consecutive days. His Spotify monthly listeners have surpassed 81 million, the highest figure of his career on the platform. Billie Jean jumped 60 places on the weekly Spotify Global Chart to number five, Beat It soared 117 spots to number 15, and Thriller re-entered the Billboard 200 top ten. Don’t Stop ‘Til You Get Enough, Smooth Criminal, and They Don’t Care About Us also entered the global top 100 simultaneously.

Jaafar Jackson, who had never acted professionally before taking on this role, has drawn consistent praise for capturing his uncle’s movement and presence on screen. The film covers the period from Michael’s early years with the Jackson 5 in the 1960s through to the Bad tour in the late 1980s, with a supporting cast that includes Nia Long, Colman Domingo, and Miles Teller.

The post The King of Pop Is the World’s Number One Global Digital Artist and a Biopic Did That appeared first on BellaNaija - Showcasing Africa to the world. Read today!.

If you have spent any time on the internet over the last few years, chances are you have come across the Ghetto Kids. The Ugandan dance group’s high-energy performances have a definitive way of stopping people mid-scroll. Recently, the group brought their signature choreography to “Dai Dai,” the official 2026 FIFA World Cup anthem by Shakira and Burna Boy.

As the world prepares for their upcoming appearance alongside Shakira at the World Cup final halftime show at MetLife Stadium on 19 July, here are five essential facts about the Kampala creators who made it to football’s ultimate stage.

They grew up in the Katwe slums of Kampala

Founded in 2014 by Dauda Kavuma, the Ghetto Kids began in the Katwe slums of Kampala, Uganda. Kavuma’s foundation has provided shelter, nutrition, and education to street children since 2007, using music, dance, and drama as a sustainable pathway to a better life. The group currently supports 60 children between the ages of 4 and 16, all coming from underprivileged backgrounds.

A viral 2014 video changed everything

The group first secured international attention after a homemade dance routine to Ugandan star Eddy Kenzo‘s hit track “Sitya Loss” went viral online. Their digital footprint expanded significantly in 2017 when they teamed up with Rwanda-born choreographer Sherrie Silver for a routine to Angolan musician Dotorado Pro’s Afro-house track “Marimba Rija,” gathering over 25 million views and establishing a permanent global audience.

They made Britain’s Got Talent history

The Ghetto Kids became a global talking point when they earned a Golden Buzzer mid-performance on Britain’s Got Talent—marking the first time in the franchise’s history that the buzzer was pressed before an act had even finished their routine. The moment introduced their story to a massive European audience and ultimately propelled them to the competition’s finals.

They have commanded global stages for years

Their upcoming stadium performance is part of a long history of high-profile appearances. The group famously featured in French Montana’s multi-platinum “Unforgettable” music video, performed at events during the 2022 World Cup in Qatar, and made their Norwegian debut at the Oslo Business Forum in September 2025. Their accolades include an AFRIMMA Award, a YouTube Creators Award, and official recognition from the Recording Industry Association of America (RIAA).

They are co-starring in the 2026 FIFA World Cup Final

The group’s relationship with Shakira evolved from a viral dance challenge they created for one of her tracks, eventually landing them a featured slot in the official Hannah Lux Davis-directed music video for “Dai Dai” alongside Burna Boy. Now, Shakira has confirmed the Ghetto Kids will join her live on stage at New Jersey’s MetLife Stadium for the halftime show on 19 July—placing the Kampala dancers in front of a global television audience expected to exceed one billion viewers

 

View this post on Instagram

 

A post shared by Shakira (@shakira)

The post 5 Things to Know About Uganda’s Ghetto Kids Ahead of Their 2026 World Cup Final Performance appeared first on BellaNaija - Showcasing Africa to the world. Read today!.

Michael Jackson has not released a new song since his passing in 2009. He has not toured, has not done press, and has not dropped a single new release. And yet, as of 1st May 2026, he is the number one global digital artist in the world, sitting ahead of Justin Bieber, BTS, Bad Bunny, Taylor Swift, Bruno Mars, Drake, and Rihanna.

The reason is Michael, the long-awaited biopic directed by Antoine Fuqua and starring Jackson’s nephew Jaafar Jackson in the title role, which opened on 24th April 2026 in the United States. The film opened to $97 million in its first weekend in North America alone, setting a new record for the biggest opening weekend ever for a biographical film. It has since grossed over $423 million worldwide, making it the highest-grossing music biopic ever made for an American artist and the second highest-grossing music biopic of all time, behind only Bohemian Rhapsody.

The chart impact has been swift and significant. Jackson now sits at number one on Kworb’s Global Digital Artist Ranking, a widely followed tracker that measures artist activity across Apple Music, Spotify, iTunes, YouTube, Shazam, and Deezer, with 8,628 points and holding the position for three consecutive days. His Spotify monthly listeners have surpassed 81 million, the highest figure of his career on the platform. Billie Jean jumped 60 places on the weekly Spotify Global Chart to number five, Beat It soared 117 spots to number 15, and Thriller re-entered the Billboard 200 top ten. Don’t Stop ‘Til You Get Enough, Smooth Criminal, and They Don’t Care About Us also entered the global top 100 simultaneously.

Jaafar Jackson, who had never acted professionally before taking on this role, has drawn consistent praise for capturing his uncle’s movement and presence on screen. The film covers the period from Michael’s early years with the Jackson 5 in the 1960s through to the Bad tour in the late 1980s, with a supporting cast that includes Nia Long, Colman Domingo, and Miles Teller.

The post The King of Pop Is the World’s Number One Global Digital Artist and a Biopic Did That appeared first on BellaNaija - Showcasing Africa to the world. Read today!.

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.”

 

The post History Made! Alexia Jayy Becomes The Voice’s First Black Woman Winner After 15 Years appeared first on BellaNaija - Showcasing Africa to the world. Read today!.

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?

 

View this post on Instagram

 

A post shared by The Guardian (@guardian)

The post She’s Back! Céline Dion Announces Paris Return in a Personal Birthday Message to Fans appeared first on BellaNaija - Showcasing Africa to the world. Read today!.

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.”

 

The post History Made! Alexia Jayy Becomes The Voice’s First Black Woman Winner After 15 Years appeared first on BellaNaija - Showcasing Africa to the world. Read today!.

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?

 

View this post on Instagram

 

A post shared by The Guardian (@guardian)

The post She’s Back! Céline Dion Announces Paris Return in a Personal Birthday Message to Fans appeared first on BellaNaija - Showcasing Africa to the world. Read today!.

Most people know Chibuike Josh Alfred, popularly known as Josh2Funny, for the skits, characters and jokes that have travelled across social media for years. But did you know he also spends time in the studio making music?

The comedian and entertainer is starting 2026 with a new single titled “Baby Tomato,” his second release of the year. With this track, Josh2Funny leans into a softer, melodic direction, offering a song centred on admiration for a love interest.

Produced by Glitz Beats, “Baby Tomato” sits comfortably within the Afro-pop space, with rhythmic production that carries Josh2Funny’s relaxed vocal delivery as he sings about affection and attraction.

Listeners who discovered him through his humorous songs will notice a slight shift here. While humour remains part of his creative identity, this release focuses more on melody and songwriting, showing another side of his artistry.

“Baby Tomato” follows a busy 2025 for the entertainer and continues his gradual expansion into music alongside comedy.

Listen below

 

The post So Josh2Funny Sings Too? Hear His New Song “Baby Tomato” appeared first on BellaNaija - Showcasing Africa to the world. Read today!.

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.

 

View this post on Instagram

 

A post shared by Berklee Global (@berkleeglobal)

The post Tiwa Savage Launches Music Foundation and Partners With Berklee to Train African Creatives appeared first on BellaNaija - Showcasing Africa to the world. Read today!.

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.

 

View this post on Instagram

 

A post shared by Berklee Global (@berkleeglobal)

The post Tiwa Savage Launches Music Foundation and Partners With Berklee to Train African Creatives appeared first on BellaNaija - Showcasing Africa to the world. Read today!.

Beyoncé has officially joined the billionaire club.

According to Forbes, the Grammy-winning superstar is now the fifth musician to reach billionaire status, following the success of her Cowboy Carter tour and years of steady earnings from her music catalogue and global performances.

The 44-year-old artist joins an elite list that includes her husband Jay–Z, Rihanna, Bruce Springsteen and Taylor Swift. Jay-Z became the first musician to achieve billionaire status in 2019.

Forbes reports that Beyoncé crossed the billion-dollar mark after the Cowboy Carter tour grossed more than $400 million in ticket sales, alongside an estimated $50 million in merchandise. The tour followed the hugely successful Renaissance World Tour, which brought in nearly $600 million in 2023.

While Beyoncé has expanded her business interests in recent years — launching haircare brand Cécred, whiskey label SirDavis and previously fronting Ivy Park — Forbes notes that the bulk of her wealth still comes from music. Revenue from touring, her catalogue and sponsorship deals remain her strongest assets.

Earlier this year, Forbes estimated her net worth at $800 million and predicted she would cross the billionaire threshold following another strong touring cycle. That projection has now been confirmed.

Beyond the tour itself, Beyoncé also earned significantly from related projects. She produced a concert film from the Renaissance tour and distributed it directly through AMC cinemas, securing nearly half of the film’s $44 million global box office gross. A Netflix Christmas Day NFL halftime performance and a series of Levi’s commercials added tens of millions more to her earnings.

In total, Forbes estimates Beyoncé brought in $148 million in 2025 before taxes, making her the third highest-paid musician in the world this year.

Her latest album, “Cowboy Carter,” released in 2024, was met with critical acclaim and went on to win Album of the Year at the Grammy Awards — the first time Beyoncé had taken home the category after four previous nominations. The project also marked a significant moment in her career, spotlighting and contextualising the Black roots of country music.

While some dates on the Cowboy Carter tour saw ticket price adjustments, the tour still broke records at venues including Tottenham Hotspur Stadium in London and Stade de France in Paris. It also recorded the highest top-priced ticket of any artist visiting the UK in 2025.

The post Beyoncé Joins the Billionaire Ranks After Success of Cowboy Carter Tour appeared first on BellaNaija - Showcasing Africa to the world. Read today!.

Decades after his passing, Fela Anikulapo–Kuti is set to be honoured on one of music’s biggest stages. The legendary Afrobeat pioneer will receive a Special Merit Lifetime Achievement Award at the 2026 Grammy Awards, recognising the lasting impact of his work on global music.

The honour will be presented at the Recording Academy’s Special Merit Awards ceremony on January 31, 2026, during Grammy Week, a day before the main awards show. Fela will be celebrated alongside an impressive group of music greats including Whitney Houston, Chaka Khan, Cher and Paul Simon.

While Fela never won a Grammy during his lifetime, his influence has continued to resonate far beyond his era. In 2025, his 1976 album “Zombie” was inducted into the Grammy Hall of Fame, with the award accepted by his sons, Femi and Seun Kuti, a moment that reaffirmed just how far his music has travelled.

Announcing the honourees on Instagram, the Recording Academy described Fela as follows: “An architect of Afrobeat, honored for a lifetime of influence. Fela Kuti was a Nigerian musician, producer, arranger, political radical, activist, and the father of Afrobeat. In the 1960s, he created the genre by combining funk, jazz, salsa, calypso, and a blend of traditional Nigerian rhythms.”

The Academy also spoke about the reach of his legacy, noting: “His influence spans generations, shaping modern Nigerian Afrobeats and inspiring global artists such as Beyoncé, Paul McCartney, and Thom Yorke. His legacy continues to live on not only through music, but through his family and through the Kalakuta Museum and the New Afrika Shrine.”

With this recognition, Fela joins a distinguished list of past Special Merit Award recipients including Whitney Houston, Cher, Paul Simon, Chaka Khan, Carlos Santana, Sylvia Rhone, John Chowning, Eddie Palmieri and Bernie Taupin.

As the 2026 Grammy Awards approach, Nigerian stars are back in the mix. Burna Boy is up for Best African Music Performance with “Love” and Best Global Music Album with “No Sign of Weakness,” while Davido earns a nod for “With You” featuring Omah Lay in the Best African Music Performance category. Ayra Starr and Wizkid also make the list with “Gimme Dat.”

 

View this post on Instagram

 

A post shared by BellaNaija (@bellanaija)

 

View this post on Instagram

 

A post shared by GRAMMYS (@grammys)

The post Fela Anikulapo-Kuti to Be Honoured with a Lifetime Achievement Award at the 2026 Grammys appeared first on BellaNaija - Showcasing Africa to the world. Read today!.

In a momentous celebration held in Nashville, Tennessee, country music legend Dolly Parton was officially named a Guinness World Records ICON, a rare honour recognising her extraordinary impact on music, entertainment, and philanthropy. The announcement formed part of Guinness World Records’ 70th anniversary celebrations and highlighted Parton’s enduring legacy as one of the most decorated figures in the industry.

The 79-year-old artist, who first rose to fame in the late 1960s, currently holds 11 Guinness World Records, a testament to her decades-long influence. Among her achievements are the most Grammy nominations for a female country artist and the distinction of having Top 10 albums across six consecutive decades.

But her accolades extend beyond charts and trophies. Parton is also the first country singer to be nominated for an EGOT— an Emmy, Grammy, Oscar, and Tony — often considered the most prestigious combination of awards in entertainment.

“Dolly is undoubtedly one of the most celebrated writers and performers in the history of country music,” said Craig Glenday, Editor-in-Chief of Guinness World Records, during the award presentation. “But her reach and influence extends far beyond the musical world.”

That influence is perhaps most visible in her philanthropic work. Through her Imagination Library, Parton has helped distribute over 200 million books to children worldwide, fostering a love for reading across generations.

From the stage to the classroom to the gates of her beloved Dollywood theme park in Pigeon Forge, Tennessee, Parton has built an empire rooted in accessibility and heart. Her 2023 album “Rockstar” saw her stepping into new sonic territory, while a surprise feature on Sabrina Carpenter’s “Please Please Please” remix reminded the world of her continued relevance.

With this new title, Parton joins an elite group of honourees recognised as Guinness World Records ICONS — a list that includes Usain Bolt, Beyoncé, Taylor Swift, Drake, Sir Elton John, and Paul McCartney.

 

View this post on Instagram

 

A post shared by Guinness World Records (@guinnessworldrecords)

The post Dolly Parton Joins Usain Bolt, Beyoncé, & More as Guinness World Records ICON appeared first on BellaNaija - Showcasing Africa to the world. Read today!.

Exclusive: Founded by former Jumia executives, customers of Nigerian fintech, Lidya are struggling to withdraw funds as CEO and CTO exit the company. Employee salaries also remain unpaid.

After weeks of competition, stage moments that had everyone talking, and that final vote reveal that felt like a breath-hold, Anu Agosa Fadoju, known as Purp, is officially the winner of Nigerian Idol Season 10.

In the final episode, Purp competed against Raymu, a fellow standout from the season, in a series of live performances that tested vocal control and stage presence. Viewers cast their votes, ultimately selecting Purp as the 2025 winner.

The grand finale, hosted by longtime media figure IK Osakioduwa, featured performances from the top finalists, comments from the judging panel — which included Omawumi, Ric Hassani, Iyanya, and guest judge 9ice — and moments of reflection on the journey that began with over two dozen contestants.

Purp now receives a prize package that includes ₦30 million in cash, a new SUV, a music deal, and a DStv Explora with a one-year premium subscription.

In a short speech after being named winner, Purp described the moment as surreal and thanked fans for their support. “This is just the beginning,” Purp said. “I can’t wait to share more music with the world.”

Watch the moment Purp claimed the crown, and see more performances that got her there.

The post Purp Crowned Winner of Nigerian Idol Season 10! appeared first on BellaNaija - Showcasing Africa to the world. Read today!.

Okra CEO Fara Ashiru has shed more light on why the company shut down, and what will happen to the funds raised. She has revealed that the company still has substantial funding remaining

Angélique Kidjo is making history. The five-time GRAMMY Award-winning singer, often called “Africa’s premiere diva” by TIME Magazine, is set to become the first African artist ever to receive a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame.

Known for her powerful voice, genre-blending music and electric stage presence, Kidjo will be honoured in the Recordings category alongside global stars like Miley Cyrus, The Clark Sisters, and more. The honour recognises her decades of groundbreaking work in music and her role in sharing African sound and culture with the world.

The announcement came during a live press conference at Ovation Hollywood, where the Hollywood Chamber of Commerce revealed the Walk of Fame Class of 2026—a list of 35 artists across music, film, television, live theatre and sports entertainment.

“We are excited to announce the newest selections of 35 esteemed individuals who will be enshrined onto the Walk of Fame,” said Peter Roth, former CEO of Warner Bros. Television and chair of the selection committee. “These talented individuals have made significant contributions to the world of entertainment, and we are thrilled to honour them with this well-deserved recognition.”

Other stars who will be honoured alongside Kidjo include Timothée Chalamet and Demi Moore (Film), Chef Gordon Ramsay (Television), and Shaquille O’Neal (Sports Entertainment).

Angelique Kidjo is the first African artist in history to be receiving a star on the Hollywood Walk Of Fame!https://t.co/2ByFcbWiiA pic.twitter.com/iFkWtnBv03

— Angelique Kidjo (@angeliquekidjo) July 3, 2025

The post Angélique Kidjo Makes History as the First African Artist to Join the Hollywood Walk of Fame appeared first on BellaNaija - Showcasing Africa to the world. Read today!.

You love her voice, you’ve probably replayed “Love Me Jeje” a dozen times, and now Tems is doing something just as iconic. She’s launching a powerful new platform — The Leading Vibe Initiative — to help more women across Africa break into the music scene. And not just singers. We’re talking songwriters, producers, engineers. Basically, the whole squad.

The Grammy Award-winning singer took to social media to share the news, writing:

Today, I’m so proud to launch The Leading Vibe. From my self-taught journey with no roadmap, I created this initiative to support African women in music, those breaking barriers, building boldly, and leading the next wave.

Rooted in her own story of navigating the industry without formal training or connections, Tems has built this initiative to support, connect, and amplify young women in music across Africa.

And she’s starting where it all began: Lagos.

Kicking off August 8–9 in her hometown, The Leading Vibe Initiative will host its first immersive programme. Designed for Nigerian women aged 18 to 35, the two-day experience will include workshops, masterclasses, and panel discussions led by seasoned industry professionals. Participants will gain hands-on training, access to professional tools, and valuable connections,  all in a space designed to empower the next generation of women in music.

For Tems, this mission is deeply personal. She spoke about how, despite the rapid growth of Nigeria’s music industry, space for women as writers, engineers, producers, and creators has been limited.

That’s why she created Leading Vibe: for the ones who believe. The ones who dare to be different. The ones with a dream to be seen and a voice that deserves to be heard.

The initiative also plans to eventually expand across the continent, with additional rollouts slated in Africa.

If you’re ready to be part of it, applications are now open.

Watch her talk more about the initiative below.

 

View this post on Instagram

 

A post shared by TEMS (@temsbaby)

The post Tems Launches the Leading Vibe Initiative to Uplift African Women in Music appeared first on BellaNaija - Showcasing Africa to the world. Read today!.

Standard Chartered has unveiled its latest wealth campaign aimed at the affluent segment in Kenya. The move is part of...

Source