Taiwo Michael Oloyede Yemi Alade builds a sonic world that carves a new continent of sound, her voice sweeps through highlife guitars, Afro-pop beats, and pulsating percussions. She is not just a singer; she is an empress of rhythm, a griot draped in color, straddling Afrobeats, highlife, coupé-décalé, R&B, and soul with an effortless command. Her debut album, King of Queens, was not just an introduction but a proclamation. The world took notice when Johnny arrived, a song so infectious it marched across Africa, conquering dancefloors from Lagos to Nairobi, Accra to Johannesburg. The album fused Afropop with reggae, highlife,…
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Ife Abe Ahmed Ololade, known professionally as Asake, is one of the most electrifying voices in contemporary Afrobeats. Blending Fuji, Afrobeats, Amapiano, and street pop, he has carved out a distinct sound that resonates from the streets of Lagos to arenas worldwide. His music—marked by high-energy beats, anthemic choruses, and Yoruba-infused lyricism—has made him a cultural phenomenon, redefining how the world experiences Nigerian street music. From the Streets to Stardom Born in Lagos, Nigeria, Asake’s musical journey was deeply rooted in the rich traditions of Yoruba music. Inspired by Fuji legends like Pasuma, Kwam 1, and the rhythmic dynamism of…
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Taiwo Michael Oloyede Temilade Openiyi, known professionally as Tems, is a singer, songwriter, and producer who has reshaped the global soundscape with her ethereal voice and emotionally charged music. Rising from Lagos, Nigeria, her artistry blends Afrobeats, neo-soul, and alternative R&B, carving a unique space that bridges African rhythms with contemporary global sounds. Born on June 11, 1995, in Lagos, Tems was immersed in music from a young age. Her mother’s eclectic taste in soul, jazz, and Afropop introduced her to the expressive depth of artists like Aṣa, Lauryn Hill, and Erykah Badu. Singing became her sanctuary, and by her…
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Ife Abe Divine Ikubor, known globally as Rema, is a trailblazer in the modern Afrobeats scene, blending traditional African rhythms with elements of trap, R&B, and global pop. Born in 2000 in Benin City, Nigeria, Rema’s rise to stardom was meteoric, fueled by his unique sound, genre-fluidity, and an ability to craft melodies that resonate across continents. Discovered by D’Prince, the younger brother of Don Jazzy, Rema was signed to Jonzing World/Mavin Records in 2019. That same year, he released his self-titled EP Rema, which included the breakout hit Dumebi. The song catapulted him to international fame, earning millions of…
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Emmanuel Daraloye How do you define a saxophonist? What parameters do you use to assess an artist who transcends conventional musical boundaries? These are the questions that surface when encountering the artistry of Teemey, a saxophonist whose interpretation of Asake’s Peace Be Unto You (PBUY) unveils a masterclass in sonic transcendence. Teemey’s ability to reimagine an already electrifying song speaks volumes about his musical dexterity. The original track, known for its pulsating rhythms and fervent energy, undergoes a transformation in Teemey’s hands. He strips it down, infuses it with lush improvisations, and elevates its essence with the emotive wail of…
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Great Kminor, the Nigeria born guitarist, artiste, stage performer, continues to make dazzling marks in the gospel industry. “Ebe” is a soulful and uplifting track by Great Kminor that beautifully blends his exceptional guitar skills with heartfelt vocals. The song, which is just under two minutes long, is a powerful plea for divine protection and blessings. Sung predominantly in Yoruba, it captures the essence of spiritual devotion and the deep connection between the artist and his faith. The melody is both soothing and invigorating, making it a perfect piece to listen to when you need a moment of reflection or…
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The Strawberry Fair in Cambridge was illuminated by the vibrant cultural showcase that is Taruwa. This event brought together an impressive line-up of artists and delivered a memorable experience for all who attended. Stellar Performances: Kate Awuku Darko Kate Awuku Darko captivated the audience with her powerful and evocative poetry. Her spoken word pieces highlights into themes of identity, heritage, and resilience, delivering each line with passion and precision. Her performance was a moving start to the evening, setting a reflective and poignant tone. Taiwo Michael Oloyede Taiwo Michael Oloyede impressed the crowd with his dual talents as a poet…
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By Taiwo Michael Oloyede In a dazzling display of Afro-Jazz brilliance, Kwitee, the acclaimed trumpeter and songwriter, transformed LH Prive in Ikoyi, Lagos into a haven of musical splendor. The event, aptly named ‘The Revived Concert with Kwitee and The Elites Band,’ offered an exclusive first listen to Kwitee’s upcoming album, Shadows. As a music critic, it was an evening that both delighted and impressed, showcasing the depth of Kwitee’s artistry and the vibrant potential of his new work. From the outset, the concert was steeped in an electrifying atmosphere. Kwitee’s performance was a masterclass in musical expression, blending traditional…