Performance-focused promotional imagery for Celine Dion’s ten-show run in Paris. Photographed by Robin Galiegue, this poster highlights the scale of her 2026 comeback at the Paris La Défense Arena, scheduled to begin this September. Photo Credit: Céline Dion/Instagram

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.”

Official promotional artwork for Celine Dion’s return to the stage. Photographed by Robin Galiegue, the poster confirms her upcoming residency at the Paris La Défense Arena, marking her first series of live performances since her health-related hiatus. Photo Credit: Céline Dion/Instagram

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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Photo Credit: Angelique Kidjo/Instagram

Would you try this golden bronze look for your birthday? Music legend Angélique Kidjo just gave us a masterclass in pared-back beauty and presence, with nothing but a buzz cut, warm light, and bold accessories.

Her hair is shaved low, shaped close to the scalp with such precision that it becomes a statement in itself. It’s clean, sculptural and unapologetically confident, pulling attention to her bone structure and the curve of her head without needing extra detail.

The makeup follows that same quiet rhythm: softly bronzed skin that catches warmth without flash, lips in a glossy nude-brown that complements her undertone, and eyes defined just enough to hold their own. Her brows remain natural and unfussed.

Then, the earrings: oversized, hammered-metal circles in a rich copper tone. No necklace, no additional styling. Just space for the earrings to speak.

See the beautiful birthday photo below

 

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Martell, one of the oldest great cognac houses, has renewed its partnership with global Afrobeats star Davido for a third term, first signed in 2021. Now in its fifth year, the partnership goes far beyond a traditional brand ambassadorship to a business partnership.

The renewed partnership was spotlighted on 25th June during the inaugural Afrobeats Live event in Paris, signalling the next phase of Martell’s evolving cultural strategy – backing the platforms, people, and conversations shaping the future of Afrobeats. Davido’s continued role reflects the brand’s long-term commitment to cultural partnership rooted in creative collaboration, infrastructure, and purpose.

Afrobeats is shaping how a generation sees itself: bold, creative, and full of intent. At the heart of this alignment lies a shared set of values: the optimism and joy that define Afrobeats’ energy; a commitment to challenging the status quo that has shaped both Martell’s and Afrobeats’ cultural legacies; and a collective mindset grounded in pride, collaboration, and community. These parallels underpin Martell’s commitment to the Afrobeats movement, a partnership built on shared purpose and cultural intent.

We see Afrobeats as a powerful force for cultural progress, built by artists and communities who are creating their future with clarity and purpose, and our commitment is grounded in respect and belief.

We’re here to walk alongside the movement, support its growth and contribute meaningfully to where it’s going next, said Lanre Odutola, Cultural Partnerships & Influence Marketing Manager, Martell

Martell also unveiled its newly appointed Cultural Ambassadors, three respected figures in music, media, and culture:
Adesope Olajide (Shopsydoo) – UK-based cultural commentator & host of The Afrobeats Podcast
Sheniece Charway – Music executive & podcast host
Abdul Abdullah – Founder of AfroFuture Festival & Culture Management Group

Each will play an active role in collaborating with Martell to co-create programming and shape storytelling, building on the brand’s existing commitment to engaging with Afrobeats in a way that is meaningful, respectful, and rooted in cultural authenticity.

A key moment of the night was a live panel moderated by Adesope Olajide, exploring Afrobeats’ global momentum and what lies ahead. The discussion covered infrastructure, talent development, storytelling, and the evolving expectations placed on the genre as it continues its global rise.

At Martell we believe legacy is shaped by those with the audacity to redefine convention. This first Afrobeats Live event reflects that belief – a commitment to supporting cultural movements that are driven by purpose, authenticity and progress, said Sébastien Borda, Global Marketing Director, Martell

The evening brought together a cross-section of respected voices from across the Afrobeats diaspora: artists, media, creatives, and industry leaders who have helped shape the culture from the ground up. It also marked the start of a sustained series of cultural experiences Martell will deliver across key regions, including Africa, the US, and global diaspora markets.

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