Social media activist, Martins Vincent Otse, also known as Verydarkman criticizes the media personality, Daddy Freeze for backbiting, alleging how Davido described VDM as a talkative.
In an Instagram story, VDM accused Daddy Freeze of repeatedly claiming in media interviews that Davido confided in him about being tired of him because he talks too much.
Verydarkman clarified that the renowned singer doesn’t provide for his needs or expenses, nor does he pay him, so he has no authority over what he posts and doesn’t post on his page.
Expressing his dissatisfaction with Daddy Freeze’s gossiping, he emphasized that his relationship with Davido borders on friendship.
“Daddy Freeze while you are going about telling people that you and Davido discussed about me and he said I talk too much and he is tired let me tell you something @davido does not tell me what to post on my page.
“He cannot do that, he doesn’t feed me, he doesn’t clothe me, he doesn’t pay my rent. I Martins Vincent Otse a.k.a Very Dark Man cover my expenses. David na my guy na where e end. So @daddyfreeze add this to your backbiting,” he wrote.
The ex-signee of Zeh Nation, Young Duu makes a mockery of his boss, Portable following his rejected apology and leaking their chats.
The famous singer had taken to his Instagram story to share snapshots of his chat with his ex-signee where he reached out to amend their relationship amidst their heated fallout.
Portable blatantly rejected mending their relationship while emphasizing how hurt he felt over the allegations against him by Young Duu.
Barely an hour after the singer leaked their chat, Young Duu took to his Instagram story to mock his ex-boss.
“Dey play 💰. Stop listening to people that give bad news just to make you give them attention that were you lose 🤔,” he wrote.
A 21-year-old businesswoman who promised to teach a client how to import goods from China delivers old products from her shop after receiving N430K.
A social media user identified as @zee_niq took to the X platform to call out a vendor @reedah_of_dubai who promised to teach her the importation of goods.
Unfortunately, after receiving a whooping sum of N430K, the businesswoman refused to allow the client to choose their product.
Following the delivery of the said imported goods, the client realized they were old and bad ones, prompting her to request proof of shipping.
How a businesswoman allegedly blocks the client after receiving N430K, delivers bad goods
“Dear Fareedah @reedah_of_dubai, I am still waiting for you to reach out to me so we can settle the transaction that happened between you and @zee_niq but you’ve not reached out yet.
The handler of @InsideIlorin_NG also reached out to you to hear from you, but you still didn’t give him the honor, instead you told @InsideIlorin_NG that you don’t have anything to say to anyone that the girl should go and do her worst.
This girl sent you wooping sum of 450k (350k to import goods for her from China, 80k to clear the good and 20k to learn how to import goods by herself). After payment she asked you if she can select the goods she want by herself, you told her that you know the best thing to pick for her that she should not worry, she trusted you enough to let you pick for her, she later asked you to show her what you picked for her, but you keep coming up with excuses, this girl never saw what she paid 430k for until the said good get to her, only for her to see old peeled bags and low quality jeans. If not that you have hidden agenda, you no let her pick what she want, you also didn’t show her what you help her pick until the package arrive…why?
She’s not even fighting with you, she only asked you that if you truly order those things from China, you should send receipt to affirm your claim, you’ve refused to send receipt, and you even blocked her, why will you blocked a customer that sent you 430k for goods and want you to account for the goods?
When she brought the matter to Twitter, you now call her and give phone to your mom to bully and silent the girl, remember one time you were called out for something like this around 2022 or so, it’s this same your mom that wanted to bully and silent the girl you cheated that time too.
Now Faree, information and fact are available that you never order all of those things from China, most of the bags you sent to this girl were old goods in your shop that you couldn’t sell, and those jeans?
Me and you know where you order them babe, but I am still giving you benefit of doubt, Fareedah please reach out to me so we can settle this amicably or come online to deny all of these things with your own side of the story and fact, what we’re asking is not even much, a refund or receipt issue to you by the China company to confirm that all of those goods were ordered from China, it’s that easy.
We are not fighting with you yet, cos I know that’s what you want, you want fight and noise so everything can be scattered and be dusted under the carpet, but we won’t go that way my dear, let us settle this thing amicably, tori Olohun, aku oungbẹ, may Allah accept it from us.
Oshey my dear, I’ll be expecting to hear from you.”
Omowunmi, late singer Mohbad’s wife, has issued a disclaimer over her sister, Karimot’s claims that her late husband was constantly infecting Wunmi with sexually transmitted diseases.
Karimot made the claim while slamming Mohbad’s father, Joseph Aloba, over his call for a DNA test on his grandson, Liam.
Reacting via her social media page, Wunmi debunked her sister’s statement, saying she has never told anyone that the late singer gave her STD.
In a lengthy post on her Instagram story, she also debunked claims of the late singer belonging to any secret cult or indulging in illicit drugs.
“I have never personally at any time told anyone that my husband gave me STDs, belonged to a cult, on drugs and neither have I told anyone he beats me.
I know you all love me and want to defend Liam and I, we truly appreciate it
“I’m alive to take the blame, pressure, accusations, and curses. Sadly, my husband can’t defend himself. I love my husband, even in death I still honour him. If you love me, please respect the memory of my husband,” her post partly read.
Nigerian artists, despite the global success of Afrobeats, and its continued international recognition, are showing a growing tilt towards new musical territories. In recent times, they have been seen to denounce the genre, claim other genres, or create hybrid genres.
The shift that has happened is moving away from the traditional sound that has defined the Nigerian music scene for years. This shift raises multiple questions about the reasons behind this trend and the implications it may have on the music industry in Nigeria and beyond.
Nigeria’s music history is rich and diverse, drawing from genres like jazz, highlife, jùjú, and reggae. Afrobeats of recent years have played significant roles in shaping the country’s musical landscape on a global scale. It was also recognised at the 2024 Grammy’s as one of the two genres included in a new category.
Afrobeats is most identifiable by its signature driving drumbeat rhythms. These beats are a mixture of the sounds from different drums and instruments, like the bass guitar and Sakara frame drum indigenous to the Yoruba people, as well as drums, guitars, horns, shekere, organ keyboards, and other percussion instruments.
The genre has gained immense popularity globally, with artists like Wizkid, Burna Boy, Tiwa Savage, Rema, and Davido leading the mainstream music scene.
Sober (Soo Bad) Lyrics by Fameye Feat. Patoranking
What happened?
Very recently, about three Nigerian top artists have denounced Afrobeats, and they all have given different reasons for that. Wizkid, considered one of the most successful artists Nigeria has produced, recently denounced the Afrobeat genre in a series of Instagram posts. Later on, the artist clarified by saying that he believed that Afrobeats was “was made up by y’all to put all we make into one box.” He went into detail about how he believed that Afrobeats, although a sound in itself, does not apply to him as he is an artist who creates a ‘fusion of sounds’ and doesn’t want to be categorized under a genre created as a means of grouping the multifarious range of music produced by African artists into a single category.
Fireboy’s stance on the Afrobeats genre is similar to Wizkid’s sentiments, as he believes that the genre, while a sound in itself, does not apply to him as an artist who creates a “fusion of sounds” and does not want to be categorised under that genre. He says he’s an artist from Africa but not necessarily an Afrobeat artist because he creates a different sound.
Burna Boy, another prominent Nigerian artist, has also expressed his views on the lack of substance in Afrobeats. He believes that 90% of Afrobeat’s music lacks real-life experiences and is mostly about “nothing.” This perspective has led to heated criticism from fans and fellow artists, with some arguing that Afrobeats have lifted many people out of depression and provided a sense of unity during challenging times. But that didn’t matter, as Burna Boy continues to classify himself as an afro-fusion artist.
Why Nigerian artists do not want the tag “Afrobeats Artist”
There are several reasons why Nigerian artists like Wizkid, Fireboy DML, Burna Boy, Chike, and others are attempting to ditch the tag “Afrobeats Artists.”
The primary reason is growth. These artists appear to believe that the tag limits their global opportunities, as their efforts to create other types of music are not appreciated. In their defence, it keeps them in a box, limiting their opportunities to be recognised in other markets where Afrobeats does not dominate.
Another reason could be the artists’ selfish desire to create a new genre of music for themselves. This could simply be due to their desire to leave a legacy, as evidenced by genres such as Rema’s Afro-Rave or the infamous Afro-fusion, which is essentially the same as afrobeats—a fusion of other African or international sound elements with sound elements originating in West Africa.
Some music critics believe it’s similar to what happened to dancehall, the genre. The fall of the dancehall genre has been attributed to various factors, including a shift in lyrical content towards themes of violence, as well as a departure from personal experiences in songwriting, much like how Burna Boy claims afrobeats have no substance. This led to a decline in dance hall’s popularity on the global music scene. The genre was left behind as it failed to evolve, and even dancehall veteran Beenie Man advised that “dancehall entertainers should squash their beef, jump on the same rhythm, and unite for the betterment of dancehall.”
In conclusion, the evolving landscape of Nigerian music, particularly the movement away from Afrobeats by some prominent artists like Wizkid, Fireboy, and Burna Boy, reflects a shift towards exploring new musical horizons and challenging traditional genre boundaries. While Afrobeats has undeniably propelled Nigerian music onto the global stage, artists are now seeking to break free from the constraints of being boxed into a single genre.
The denunciation of Afrobeats by these artists signifies a desire for artistic freedom, creative exploration, and a rejection of being confined to a specific genre label. This shift mirrors similar transitions seen in other music genres like dancehall, where a lack of evolution and depth in lyrical content contributed to its decline in popularity.
As Nigerian musicians continue to push boundaries, experiment with new sounds, and collaborate across genres, one can only hope that the music industry in Nigeria is poised for further innovation and not ruin.
Female artists have always been at the forefront of the Afrobeats to the world movement.
The Afrobeats scene is exploding with talent, and female artists are leading the charge with innovative sounds and undeniable charisma. To honour International Women’s Month, we highlight the top 10 rising stars who we believe are on their way to becoming the next Afrobeats royalty:
Qing Madi
Qing Madi is an Afrobeat Prodigy with a very powerful voice. This 17-year-old artist, born Chimamanda Pearl Chukwuma in 2006, is taking the Afrobeats world by storm with her unique blend of pop and afrobeat, a merger of her undeniable talent.
Qing Madi’s musical journey started young. She honed her skills by singing in her church choir and participating in school talent shows. But it was in 2022 that her career took a meteoric rise. A self-made TikTok video showcasing her original song See Finish went viral, capturing the attention of audiences worldwide.
Qing Madi is a true artist with a distinct style. She blends Afrobeats with Pop, Soul, and R&B influences. She is inspired by Kendrick Lamar and is working on redefining the genre with her own brand of Afro-R&B.
Qing Madi has released several more tracks, including the hit Ole featuring BNXN, which has over 15 million streams on Spotify. This track and many others like American Love and Vision were in her eponymous (self-titled) debut EP in November 2023.
Conclusively, Qing Madi’s stage name reflects her personality. “Qing” translates to “powerful, feminine, queen” and that’s exactly how she carries herself. She recently featured in a single by Joshua Baraka and Simi titled Dalilah II.
Guchi
Guchi is a rising star in the Nigerian Afrobeats scene. Born in Kaduna in 1997, Ugochi Lydia Onuoha began her musical journey at a young age, singing in her church choir and for her family.
Her music style is majorly fueled by her father’s love for Michael Jackson. She pursued her passion while attending Edo State University and later transitioned to part-time studies in theatre and media arts at the University of Lagos.
Guchi’s sound blends elements of dancehall, afrobeats and highlife. Her career officially kicked off in 2012, but it wasn’t until 2019 that she gained wider recognition with the release of her debut single, No Be Jazz. Signing with PG Records Entertainment, Guchi followed up with tracks like Addicted, Jennifer and Closer with Jennifer still in the top 100 of Kenya’s Youtube list.
The release of Jennifer in 2021 was a game-changer. The song sparked a viral challenge on TikTok, propelling Guchi into the Afrobeats spotlight. She later released a remix featuring Tanzanian singer Rayvanny, further solidifying her international appeal. In 2020, she became a two-year ambassador for the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency, using her platform to advocate for positive change.
Ria Sean
Ria Sean, whose real name is Gloria Asene Enebi, is a rising star in the Nigerian Afrobeats scene. This talented singer and songwriter began her musical journey at a young age, honing her voice in the church choir. By sixteen, she was already pursuing music professionally, drawing inspiration from legendary artists like Brandy, Chris Brown, Whitney Houston, and Frank Ocean.
She gained limelight with her hit single Lemonade and has collaborated with Indian maestro, Kanika Kapoor.
Ugoccie
Favour Ugochi Anosike, better known by her stage name Ugoccie, is a rising star in the Nigerian music scene. This multi-talented artist is making a name for herself with her blend of contemporary Afrobeats, rap, and indigenous flavours.
Born on March 6, 1997, Ugoccie’s passion for music started young. Hailing from Abia State, Nigeria, she honed her vocal skills and love for performing. Interestingly, her artistic journey began as an on-air personality during her teenage years.
Her big break came with the release of her hit single “Do You Really Like Me?” The song’s catchy melody, Igbo influences and relatable lyrics took off on TikTok, propelling her to viral fame and a nomination for Rookie of the Year at the prestigious Headies in 2022.
Ugoccie’s music is a unique blend of contemporary Afrobeats with the rich sounds of her Igbo heritage. She infuses rap verses into her songs, showcasing her versatility as an artist. This cultural fusion adds depth and a distinct character to her sound.
She recently announced release dates for a 5 track extended play that is expected to take the Igbo music space by storm.
Bloody Civilian
Emoseh Khamofu, better known by her stage name Bloody Civilian, is a force to be reckoned with in the Nigerian music scene. This multi-talented artist isn’t just a singer and songwriter, she’s also a skilled record producer, making her a true one-woman powerhouse.
Hailing from Taraba State, Bloody Civilian was raised in the vibrant Northern Nigerian cities of Kaduna, Jos, and Abuja. These diverse environments undoubtedly influenced her sound. While her upbringing might have been conservative, her artistic spirit couldn’t be contained. From a young age, she filled notebooks with lyrics, wowed audiences at school talent shows, and even began crafting beats for fellow students.
Bloody Civilian’s musical journey started with humble beginnings, using the free audio editing software Audacity to create her early compositions. However, her talent was undeniable. She soon gained recognition for her genre-bending sound that blends the rich tapestry of Afrobeats with other influences.
Bloody Civilian aren’t afraid to push boundaries. Her debut single, “How To Kill A Man,” made a bold statement and established her as an artist with a unique voice and a rebellious spirit. But her impact goes beyond solo hits. Her collaboration with Rema on the song “Wake Up” for the Black Panther: Wakanda Forever soundtrack catapulted her onto the global stage. This achievement solidified her status as a rising star with the potential to become a major player in the Afrobeats world.
Described by publications like The Guardian Nigeria as a “radical maverick,” Bloody Civilian is more than just a musician. She’s a creative force who uses her art to challenge norms and celebrate her Nigerian heritage. She is also a Grammy-nominated music producer. It’s best to keep an eye on Bloody Civilian, she’s poised to be a major force in Afrobeats for years to come.
Somadina
Somadina is a rising star in the Afrobeats galaxy, captivating audiences with her powerhouse vocals and magnetic psychedelic rock pop mix. This talented songstress is quickly becoming a name to remember.
She grew up in the Netherlands and that influenced her unique style, Somadina’s music speaks volumes. Her voice is a force to be reckoned with, capable of soaring sonic melodies that leave a lasting impression. Paired with her undeniable stage presence, Somadina’s live performances are an unforgettable experience, drawing fans in and leaving them wanting more.
Somadina’s music doesn’t shy away from showcasing the full spectrum of her talent. Her recent single Lagos was a rave among the growing alternative group of youths. She lives the life she sings about and this authenticity resonates with listeners, making Somadina an artist to connect with on a deeper level.
Kold AF
Forget the icy moniker, Kold AF ignites the stage with fiery energy and a fresh perspective on African music. Her recent collaborative EP, No Pity, isn’t just a breakout moment – it’s a continuation of her steady rise.
This Nigerian songstress, hailed as an “African songbird” by The Guardian, possesses a captivating voice that demands attention. Kold AF isn’t afraid to push boundaries, weaving soulful vocals with the infectious energy of Afrobeats.
Her debut EP, Kold Szn, showcases her depth as a songwriter and storyteller. It’s a captivating journey through the complexities of love and heartbreak, resonating with listeners on a deeper level.
Kold AF transcends mere beats. Her music is a fusion of sonic brilliance and raw emotion, a powerful combination that shines through in her captivating performances.
Dami Oniru
Dami Oniru, also known as Briana Oluwdamilola Oniru-Edwards, is a rising star in the Nigerian music scene. This Atlanta-born, Nigerian-American artist is captivating audiences with her rich, honeyed vocals and introspective songwriting.
She burst onto the scene in 2017 with her debut single Iyawo, showcasing her unique voice and talent for soulful expression. She quickly gained recognition and collaborated with artists like Odunsi The Engine, solidifying her place in the alternative Afrobeats movement.
In 2019, Oniru released her debut EP, Bri’s Lounge, a 7-track project that established her as a vulnerable and relatable artist. Tracks like See and the hit single Alive explored themes of love, self-discovery, and personal growth.
Following a year hiatus to hone her craft, Dami Oniru returned in late 2022 with her sophomore EP, Matter Of Time. This project showcased her artistic evolution while retaining the soulful vocals and introspective lyricism that fans have come to love. Her latest single, Soft Life, is a smooth and relatable anthem about the desire for peace, ease, and well-deserved enjoyment.
She is not only a talented vocalist but also a songwriter who pours her heart and experiences into her music. With her dedication to her craft and a growing fanbase, Dami Oniru is poised to become a major force in the Afrobeats scene for years to come.
Lifesize Teddy
Lifesize Teddy [Image provided by Mavin Records]
Lifesize Teddy, born Treasure Apiafi Banigo, is a rapper, singer, and songwriter making waves in the Nigerian music scene. Signed to the powerhouse label Mavin Records, she’s quickly gaining recognition for her unique blend of hip-hop, R&B, and rap.
Hailing from Bonny Island, Rivers State, Lifesize Teddy was surrounded by a rich cultural tapestry that undoubtedly influenced her music. Her musical journey began early, with songwriting blossoming at the young age of nine. By 12, inspired by Kanye West’s College Dropout, she discovered her passion for rap.
A chance encounter on Instagram with Mavin Records artist Ladipoe led Lifesize Teddy to open for him at a concert in 2018. This connection ultimately landed her a spot in the label’s prestigious artist development program in 2020. After three years of honing her craft, she emerged ready to take the industry by storm.
In 2023, Lifesize Teddy unveiled her self-titled debut EP, receiving critical acclaim. The project showcases her impressive range, lyrical prowess, and ability to seamlessly blend genres. Tracks like Hypnotic and John Wick hint at the exciting potential this young artist holds.
Lifesize Teddy is more than just a catchy name. It reflects her larger-than-life personality and the impact she aims to make. Often referred to as a “Femme Lighthouse,” she inspires a new generation of female rappers in Nigeria, paving the way for a more inclusive Afrobeats scene.
Winny
Hailing from Benue State, Nigeria, Winny, named Winifred Ohili Adanu, is a rising star in the Afrobeats scene. This multi-talented artist isn’t afraid to push boundaries, blending the infectious energy of Afrobeats with soulful vocals and hints of reggae, creating a sound that’s both captivating and emotionally resonant.
Winny’s music is more than just beats. She infuses her songwriting with themes of love, self-discovery, and finding your place in the world, drawing inspiration from artists like Chronixx, Wizkid, Chris Brown, and Kranium. Having grown up in a large, loving family, Winny’s lyrics often touch on themes of unity, compassion, and the importance of staying true to oneself.
While still at the beginning of her musical journey, Winny’s ambition is clear. She aspires to use her music to connect with listeners on a deeper level, evoke emotions, and establish a unique artistic identity that transcends genres. This was evident in her Winnyalbum, released in 2023, which currently has millions of streams across platforms.
The Afrobeats scene is brimming with phenomenal female talent, and these 10 rising stars are poised to become the next wave of royalty. From the soulful stylings of Winny to the powerhouse vocals of Somadina, each artist brings a unique flavour to the genre, pushing boundaries and captivating audiences worldwide.
This diverse group of artists isn’t just creating catchy tunes; they’re redefining Afrobeats. Whether it’s Bloody Civilian’s genre-bending boldness or Ugoccie’s fusion of Afrobeats with her Igbo heritage, these women are expanding the sonic palette of the genre while staying true to its infectious energy. These Afrobeats queens are ready to conquer the world, one song at a time.
Famous female critic, Saida BOJ weighs in on the DNA test drama regarding the paternity of Mohbad’s son following a public drama between Wunmi Aloba and her sister.
This came hours after Wunmi’s sister accused the late singer of infecting his wife with STDs multiple times, leaving her with constant use of antibiotics.
Wunmi, however, swiftly debunked the allegations, stating that she never made such claims about her son’s father, while insisting on preserving his image.
Addressing the drama between the duo, Saida BOJ joins the bandwagon of those insisting on a paternity test for Liam Light.
In a recent video via her social media page, she argued that the family is beginning to be suspicious, particularly as a result of the contradictions between the sisters.
Saida insisted that Wunmi must take the DNA testonce and for all in honour of her late husband and also to put an end to the social media outburst on the issue.
“When did you move from mourning Mohbad to mocking him? You know he is the father of your child, then you should be able to do the DNA test. Do you like how his body is lying in the motuary?” she said in part.
Popular music sensation David Adeleke, better known by his stage as Davido, has disclosed that his twins do not cry.
Davido made this revelation during a recent interview with Billboard while praising being a father to his one-year-old twins as the “best feeling ever.”
In his words; “I remember when they came, everybody was calling like, ‘They have twins, blah, blah, blah. It’s gonna be hard.’ But, my twins are blessed.
They don’t even cry. They’re just calm and they’re just growing so fast. It’s just a blessing. Thank God for everything”.
Davido and his twins. source: Google
Recall that last year, Davido and his wife, Chioma, confirmed reports of welcoming a set of twins in the United States, after a video of them carrying the babies popped up online.
The news caused a lot of jubilations online as many loved ones congratulated them for the bunch of joy.
Famous crossdresser, Idris Olanrewaju Okuneye popularly known as Bobrisky is scheduled to be charged by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) with money laundering and mutilation of the Naira.
Recall that in the early hours of Thursday morning, reports suggested that Bobrisky was arrested at his residence in Pinnock Estate, Lagos on the 3rd of April and charged him with six counts.
Bobrisky
Bobrisky is scheduled to be arraigned on Friday before Justice Abimbola Awogboro of the Federal High Court, Lagos, according to Channels Television.
The first four charges focus on abuse of the Naira while the latter two counts of the charge deal with alleged money laundering.
Bobrisky is accused in the first count of the charge sheet submitted by EFCC Prosecutor Rotimi Oyedepo, Senior Advocate of Nigeria, and seven other attorneys, of tampering with the sum of N400,000 by spraying it while dancing during a social gathering at the IMAX Circle Mall in Lekki, Lagos.
The Central Bank Act of 2007’s Section 21(1) forbids and punishes the offence, which was committed on March 24, 2024.
In count two, Bobrisky at Aja Junction, Ikorodu between July and August 2023, again tampered with another amount of N50,000 by dancing and spraying it at a social event.
In count three, Bobrisky sprayed and tampered with an additional N20,000 while dancing at White Steve Event Hall in Ikeja in December 2023.
Additionally, Bobrisky was charged by count four with spraying and tampering with another N20,000 while dancing at another event in Oniru, Victoria Island.
In count five, Bobrisky traded under the name and style of Bob Express in Lagos between September 1, 2021, and April 4, 2024. Bobrisky failed to provide the Special Control Unit Against Money Laundering with a declaration of the activities of the aforementioned company, Bob Express, during the period that N127. 7 million was paid into the company’s account that was based at Ecobank.
In count six, Bobrisky is also charged with violating Sections 6(1)(a) and 19(1)(f) of the Money Laundering (Prevention and Prohibition) Act, as well as Section 19(2)(b) of the same Act, by neglecting to file a declaration of the company’s activities within the same time frame that another N53 million was deposited into the company’s account.
