Longer reads on the scenes, deals and shifts shaping African music — the context behind the charts, across the continent and the diaspora.
When Asake announced a black-tie orchestral show, we were all perched. Asake’s Red Bull Symphonic show was the first U.S. edition headlined by an African artist, but the real story wasn’t just the strings; it was the guest list.
This isn’t just fusion; it’s a conversation. French drummer Raphaël Pannier and Senegalese master Khadim Niang unite for a historic live album recorded at the Saint Louis Jazz Festival. From re-imagined Brubeck to the pulse of Sabar, Raphael Pannier Quartet & Khadim Niang’s Live in Saint Louis, Senegal proves rhythm knows no borders.
The audio was already a shutdown. Now, Sarz’s ‘Getting Paid’ video has officially landed, bringing the super-producer’s mega-collab with Asake, Wizkid, and Skillibeng to life. This isn’t just a music video; it’s a flex.
The visuals for Gunna and Burna Boy’s ‘wgft’ video have landed, and it’s a high-fashion fever dream. Shot in London, the clip sees Gunna taken hostage in the most stylish way possible alongside the African Giant.
The “Shake It to the Max (Fly)” Gold certification in the UK is official, and Moliy has the plaque to prove it. But this wasn’t just a simple viral hit; it was a masterclass in global A&R, TikTok domination, and the power of the rolling remix.
The official TikTok’s Songs of the Summer 2025 list for Nigeria has landed, and it’s a fascinating snapshot of what’s actually moving the culture. It’s not the usual suspects. We break down the rise of BhadBoi OML and the noticeable absence of the global titans.
Aya Nakamura is back, and she’s not playing. She’s just announced Aya Nakamura’s new album Destinéeand Stade de France shows for 2026. The demand was so mad she had to add a second date, but the real tea is the pre-sale drama that has the timeline talking.
L2B’s Accor Arena concert for March 2026 is the hottest ticket in Paris. The first 20,000-capacity show sold out almost immediately, forcing the trio to add a second date. We look at the 94 group’s unstoppable come-up and the chaos that proves their pull is real.
Just as the Morayo era settles, Wizkid proves he’s not taking a break. The surprise drop of Wizkid, DJ Tunez, and DJ Maphorisa’s South Gidi is the cross-continental link-up we’ve been needing. This isn’t just a collab; it’s a full-on cultural statement.
Fresh off the Escaladizzy wave, Gen Z breakout star Mavo has tapped the O.B.O himself. The ‘Shakabulizzy’ remix is here, and Davido’s verse is already causing a stir with that “Sapa” line.
Four questions, answered in plain text, marked up as FAQPage.
Longer analysis and reporting: scene reports, deal breakdowns and interviews that do not fit the release cycle.
Yes. Signings, streaming economics, touring and festival programming across Europe and Africa.
Typically eight to fifteen minutes. Reading time shows on every card.
Staff writers and contributors based in Lagos, Nairobi, Johannesburg, Paris and London.
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