Storytimes Newspapers

  Veteran actor Francis Duru has sparked debate after saying Igbos played a major role in building modern Nollywood, but Yoruba filmmakers have become more dominant.   Speaking in an interview on Gbam, Duru said Igbo entrepreneurs helped build the home-video industry but argued that the Yoruba community has been more successful at supporting and promoting its own people.   “We [Igbos] created Nollywood, but if you go to Netflix today, you hardly see one movie that speaks of Igbo heritage,” he said.   Duru urged Igbos to learn from the Yoruba community’s ability to protect and project its culture, stressing that his comments were not an attack on Yoruba filmmakers.  

Nigerian music act KENNYBLAZE is set to release his highly anticipated new single, “Ogundabede,” featuring Boy Muller, on September 4th. Building anticipation for the release, KENNYBLAZE has shared a snippet of the upcoming track, giving fans a glimpse of what to expect from the collaboration. The preview has sparked excitement around the song and its forthcoming official release. With “Ogundabede” arriving soon, fans can look forward to experiencing the full track when it drops on September 4th. WATCH SNIPPET NOW 👇👇👇

  Veteran actor Jide Kosoko has explained why efforts to take ailing actor Taiwo Hassan, popularly known as Ogogo, to different locations for spiritual treatment have not been possible.   In a statement, Kosoko appreciated fans, colleagues and well-wishers for their prayers, financial support and offers of medical and spiritual assistance. He said the family had received hundreds of offers from people who believe they could help Ogogo, but moving him from the hospital at this stage of his treatment would be extremely difficult.   According to him, more than 300 and even over 500 people have offered to assist, making it difficult to determine where Ogogo could be taken while ensuring he continues receiving proper care at the hospital.   Kosoko urged people not to feel offended if the family is unable to bring Ogogo to them, stressing that their inability to do so does not mean they doubt the intentions of those offering help.   He also appealed to everyone to con...

  Music executive Dapper Damm has denied claims that he sold the catalogues of artists signed to his label, insisting that no artist’s catalogue has been sold to a distributor, third party or anyone else.   In a new statement addressing the allegations surrounding his label, Dapper also clarified how the revenue figures being circulated online should be understood. He explained that catalogue revenue figures quoted online are gross figures and do not represent the amount ultimately payable to an artist. According to him, streaming platforms and distributors take their respective shares before other costs advanced by the label are recouped.   Dapper claimed that the label’s investments in the artists exceeded the earnings generated, leaving some balances unrecouped.   See his statement below   

  Life comes with enough pressure, and sometimes the best response is simply to enjoy yourself. That is the spirit EDM VIBEZ and Zineth bring to “ PARTY ,” a feel-good Afrobeat record that celebrates having fun, living freely and making the most of the moment. From its catchy “I like it when we party, I like it when we vibe” refrain, “PARTY” makes its intentions clear. The song is built around the simple pleasures of a good time, as EDM VIBEZ and Zineth sing about enjoyment, money, beautiful women and keeping unnecessary trouble out of the picture. The record carries a relaxed but lively energy, with English, Pidgin and Yoruba flowing naturally throughout. EDM VIBEZ keeps his delivery smooth and confident, while Zineth brings a different flavour to the song, making their collaboration feel easy and well-matched. At its core, “PARTY” is about choosing to enjoy the moment. There is no heavy message to unpack or complicated story to follow. Instead, EDM VIBEZ and Zineth keep thin...

  East Ham, East London — 8 August 2026: The vibrant Igbo community in the UK came together for an unforgettable evening of entertainment, culture and social connection at Igbotic Game Night, one of the biggest social gatherings celebrating the Igbo community in the United Kingdom. Among the night’s standout moments was an electrifying performance by Afrobeats artist Obeena, who took the stage and immediately captured the attention of the crowd. Obeena delivered performances of two of his hit songs, “Wara Wara” and “Banging,” bringing his energetic sound and distinctive stage presence to the event. From the opening moments of his set, fans responded with excitement, singing along, dancing and enthusiastically supporting the artist. His performance of “Wara Wara” created an instant connection with the audience, while “Banging” took the energy to another level. Obeena’s ability to engage the crowd transformed his set into one of the most memorable entertainment moments of the evening...

  Superstar YB releases his uplifting new single “Omo Olorun” (Child of God) , a vibrant Afrobeats and Amapiano record centered on grace, hustle, resilience, and destiny. Driven by infectious melodies and undeniable replay value, the track delivers a powerful message of perseverance and purpose — a “song of the summer in the making.” Produced by Mr Marz and Superstar YB across Lagos, Nigeria and London, United Kingdom, “Omo Olorun” showcases a dynamic fusion of African rhythms and global sounds. Released under the SYB EMPIRE and Hallmark Sound imprints, the record is now available on all major streaming platforms. Fans can stream worldwide and download “Omo Olorun” on all platforms. DOWNLOAD MP3: Superstar YB – Omo Olorun

  Nigerian Afrofusion artist KenryWhite unveils his compelling two-track release, “Kilometers & The King,” a project that explores the realities of life’s journey while affirming identity, faith, and purpose. Leading the release is “Kilometers,” an uplifting anthem that reflects on the distance between dreams and fulfillment. Through heartfelt lyrics, captivating melodies, and vibrant Afrobeats production, KenryWhite encourages listeners to embrace the process, remain resilient, and keep moving forward despite life’s challenges. Complementing the project is “The King,” featuring Wonder J. The record is a bold declaration of confidence, royalty, and divine purpose, blending infectious Afrobeats rhythms with inspiring lyricism. Together, the duo delivers a record that celebrates self-belief, leadership, and the mindset required to overcome every obstacle. With rich storytelling, memorable melodies, and contemporary African sounds, “Kilometers & The King” showcases KenryWhite’...

  The singer posed with her kids – RZA, Riot, and Rocki – in front of the colourful bungalow where she was raised.   The road—formerly known as Westbury New Road in St. Michael, Barbados—was officially renamed Rihanna Drive in the singer’s honor in 2017.   Sharing photos and a video from her visit, Rihanna wrote: "One minute I feel like that kid from Westbury..the next minute lm bringing my own kids back to "Rihanna Drive"  "Trippy how life works! And the Giory STILL and WILL ALWAYS belong to the Almighty Creator!!"     See below.  

  In a move that is already sending shockwaves through the Afrobeats and global music communities, rising force Focox AT has officially signed with Lucky Lisiano Records (LLR). The contract is being widely described as one of the most artist-favorable deals ever put on paper — a rare, heavily enriched agreement that prioritizes the artist’s long-term ownership, creative control, and financial upside in ways rarely seen in modern label partnerships. Based in Warri, Nigeria, Focox AT brings a distinctive sound and unfiltered energy that has been building momentum across the continent. Lucky Lisiano Records, headquartered in the United States, recognized the unique opportunity and moved decisively. The resulting partnership is being called “promising and unique” by both camps — a genuine bridge between Warri’s raw creative fire and LLR’s international infrastructure. Under the new agreement, Focox AT will begin the partnership with two singles, followed by a full EP scheduled for rele...

  Emerging Afrobeats artist Kingdjey proudly announces the release of his latest single, Believer, an uplifting anthem that celebrates faith, resilience, and the determination to pursue one's dreams against all odds. Blending infectious Afrobeats rhythms with heartfelt lyrics and captivating melodies, Believer delivers a message of hope for anyone striving to overcome obstacles. The song encourages listeners to remain confident in their purpose, trust the process, and keep believing even when success seems distant. With Believer, Kingdjey showcases his artistic versatility and commitment to creating music that resonates beyond entertainment. The track combines contemporary African sounds with an emotional performance, offering a refreshing balance of vibrant production and meaningful storytelling. Speaking about the inspiration behind the song, Kingdjey said: "Believer is for everyone who has faced doubt, rejection, or difficult moments. I want people to remember that every gr...

  An internet personality, Oyemkke, has cautioned Nigerians against demanding that South African singer Tyla cancel her planned performance in Nigeria, warning that such a move could have consequences for Nigerians living and doing business in South Africa.   The comment comes amid an ongoing debate over whether Nigerians should boycott Tyla’s proposed show following criticism of her alleged silence during xenophobic attacks against Nigerians and other foreigners in South Africa.   According to him, Nigerians who disagree with Tyla can send a message by refusing to buy tickets or attend her show rather than calling for her to be stopped from entering Nigeria.   Watch video below:  

  A foreign traveller has shared his first experience after arriving in Lagos, saying the process was much easier than he expected despite the warnings he had seen online. According to him, immigration was smooth, officials were friendly, and no one asked him for anything. He added that his only issue was waiting for his luggage, which had already been taken off the baggage belt. Describing the experience as "super easy," he said his arrival in Nigeria went without any problems.    Watch video below:  

  After years of refining his sound and carving out his artistic identity, Nigerian Afrobeat artist Baddestoyoko is ready to make his boldest statement yet with the release of his debut EP, Too Good To Be Shy , arriving on July 24 across all major streaming platforms. The project also marks a defining milestone in his career through a standout collaboration with legendary Nigerian hitmaker J. Martins , adding another exciting dimension to an already ambitious body of work. Built on contemporary Afrobeat foundations, the 7 [seven]-track project is a vibrant exploration of love, identity, confidence and self-expression, blending infectious rhythms with melodic songwriting and unmistakable African influences. Rather than staying within one sonic lane, Too Good To Be Shy showcases Baddestoyoko’s versatility, effortlessly moving between smooth romantic records, feel-good anthems and groove-driven Afrobeat while maintaining a cohesive identity throughout. The EP features seven care...

  Contemporary gospel artist Lanre Vincent returns with “Dayenu” , a refreshing Afrocentric worship anthem inspired by the timeless Hebrew expression meaning “it would have been enough.” Traditionally sung during Passover, Dayenu is a song of gratitude that celebrates the countless blessings of God, reminding believers to remain thankful for every step of His faithfulness. Beautifully blending authentic African rhythms with modern contemporary worship, Dayenu delivers an uplifting sound that is both culturally rich and spiritually inspiring. The song also reflects on God’s miraculous deliverance of the Israelites in the book of Exodus, drawing a powerful connection to His continued faithfulness in our lives today. Known for his unique fusion of gospel and Afro-inspired music, Lanre Vincent creates worship experiences that celebrate faith through African culture. Influenced by legendary icons such as Fela Kuti, Lagbaja, and Seyi Solagbade, he combines vibrant rhythms with heart...

  Multi-Talented Singer, Nasboi has returned on the music scene With another electrifying Single titled “10 over 10”. Talented Act and Songwriter, RyBeena makes a guest appearance on Nasboi’s song  titled “10 over 10”. The song “10 over 10” is a wonderful number which is a must for your playlist. In the Conclusion, the song is an amazing record, if you enjoy fantastic music, you should have in your collection.

  Delta State, Nigeria — Coast Omonofewho, better known by his stage name Gold Coast, is steadily making waves in the Nigerian music scene with his soulful blend of gospel and Afro-inspired sounds. The South-South singer and songwriter, born on May 20, 1999, hails from the Olomoro kingdom in Isoko, Delta State. Proudly representing his Isoko roots, Gold Coast infuses his music with heartfelt gratitude, faith, and cultural pride. His latest release, the uplifting single “Thank You Lord,” dropped recently and is already generating buzz among gospel music lovers. Distributed by DistroKid under Diamond Heart Entertainment, the track is now available across all major streaming platforms. A Message of Gratitude “Thank You Lord” serves as a powerful expression of thanksgiving and worship. In a world often filled with challenges, Gold Coast uses his voice to remind listeners of the importance of acknowledging divine blessings and staying rooted in faith. The artist, whose X bio simply read...

  Pray is more than just a song; it's a heartfelt prayer and a sincere request to God. Hopefully, He answers every silent cry. Sometimes, life doesn't go the way it's supposed to, but we keep believing and praying. Take a listen and let me know your thoughts. DOWNLOAD Santywa - Pray

  Rutie Unveils New Afrobeat Single "Don't Lie" – Out Now on All Streaming Platforms. Go Listen now  Rising Nigerian Afrobeat singer, songwriter, and performer Rutie (Ruth Enaiho) has officially released her highly anticipated new single, "Don't Lie," now available on Spotify, Apple Music, Audiomack, Boomplay, YouTube Music, and all major digital streaming platforms. Released on 3 July 2026, Don't Lie is a vibrant Afrobeat record that combines infectious melodies, irresistible rhythms, and heartfelt storytelling. If you love good music, you'll love Rutie. Inspired by real-life experiences, the song tells the story of a man who is secretly in love with a woman but struggles to express his true feelings. Rutie poured her heart into every lyric, creating an emotionally honest record with a catchy hook and uplifting Afrobeat groove that listeners will want to keep on repeat. Rutie is quickly establishing herself as one of Nigeria's exciting new Afrob...

  American singer Chris Brown has been ordered to pay $13 million in damages to the housekeeper who was mauled by a massive security dog on his property in December 2020, a California jury decided on Tuesday, June, 30.   After a two-week trial, the verdict went in favor of Maria Avila, who was viciously attacked by Hades, a 200-pound Caucasian shepherd owned by Brown, while emptying trash outside the singer’s Tarzana, California, house.   The housekeeper’s attorney, Michael C. Murphy Jr., told Billboard that Brown and his company, Black Pyramid LLC, are on the hook to pay $12.9 million to Maria Avila for negligence. That’s not all they owe. Avila’s sister, Patricia Avila, who was also on the job when the mauling took place, was awarded $885,000 for emotional distress, and Maria Avila’s husband, Oscar Olivo, was separately awarded $50,000.   Murphy told Billboard, “After more than five years of litigating against Chris Brown, we are thrilled that we were able to get j...