Adeayo Adebiyi

<h2>Nigerian megastar Davido was one of the first artists to congratulate South African singer Tyla after she made history by becoming the first winner of the African Music Performance category.</h2>

<p>On February 4, 2024, at the 66th Grammy Award held in Los Angeles, Tyla picked up the Best African Music Performance award for&nbsp;<em>'Water'&nbsp;</em>as she fended off competition from the Nigerian contingent of Davido, Burna Boy, Asake &amp; Olamide, and Ayra Starr.</p>

<p>Davido took to his X page to congratulate the South African singer who had the commercially biggest song in the category with&nbsp;<em>'Water'</em>&nbsp;which peaked at NO. 7 on the Billboard Hot 100.</p>

<p><em>"Congratulations on your win&nbsp;</em><a href="https://twitter.com/Tyllaaaaaaa"><em>@Tyllaaaaaaa</em></a><em>! Big One for Africa! Keep soaring,"&nbsp;</em>Davido posted after his hit single&nbsp;<em>'Unavailable'&nbsp;</em>featuring&nbsp;<strong>Musa</strong>&nbsp;<strong>Keys</strong>&nbsp;failed to win the category.</p>

<p>It wasn't a great night for the Nigerian contingent as <a href="https://www.pulse.ng/entertainment/music/davido-loses-all-3-nominations-at-the-66th-grammy-awards/3yetmfe">Davido lost all his three nominations</a> while <a href="https://www.pulse.ng/entertainment/music/burna-boy-loses-all-4-nominations-at-the-66th-grammy-awards/hghzqbt">Burna Boy lost all four</a> with no Nigerian picking up an award despite having 10 nominations between them.</p>

Davido congratulates Tyla after her historic Grammy win

Nigerian megastar Davido was one of the first artists to congratulate South African singer Tyla after she made history by becoming the first winner of the African Music Performance category.

<h2>Since breaking into the mainstream in 2022 with his hit single&nbsp;<em>'Chance',</em>&nbsp;Seyi Vibez has enjoyed commercials through his eclectic blend of traditional genres with mainstream elements.</h2>

<p>In a new interview with<strong>&nbsp;Apple Music Africa Now Radio&nbsp;</strong>with&nbsp;<strong>Nandi Madiba</strong>, Seyi Vibez talked about his rise to commercial success, the motivation behind his music, and his decision to start a label.</p>

<p>2023 was a busy year for Seyi Vibez who dropped more projects than any other Nigerian mainstream act with his 2 Eps and 2 albums. When quizzed about his decision to put out lots of music, Seyi Vibez revealed that music is his best form of expression hence he's always recording.</p>

<p><em>“I just keep recording. It’s not because I want to record, it’s because I don’t like talking to people too much. From when I was young I didn’t like talking to people too much, so whatever was on my mind that’s getting me sad or is getting me happy, I put in my music. I record always because that’s the only way I can communicate with people. I have a lot more songs than the ones I’ve dropped.”</em></p>

<p>Since releasing 'Chance' Seyi Vibez has enjoyed huge commercial success which he believes contributes to the reluctance of people to believe he's only 23 years old. The artist however ascribes his success to God and his late mom whose memories continue to motivate him.</p>

<p><em>“I would say first of all it’s God, our creator. Apart from that my explanation is always my mum, but since she’s passed away I always say she’s alive [in me].</em></p>

<p><em>I don’t think I’m young, because everyone thinks I’m older than my age, nobody thinks I’m 23. I just have to keep pushing, because it’s like I’m doing what I’m not supposed to do at my age. I’ll keep doing it and my mum is still alive so my inspiration never dies, so I keep working.”</em></p>

Seyi Vibez interview with Apple Music Africa Now Radio

<p>Seyi Vibez has his music imprint called Vibez INC to which he signed the rising Street Pop act TMI Vibez. Seyi Vibez believes his new signee has the potential to become one of Africa's best artists.</p>

<p><em>“All this year, Tml, Tml. I think he should do a lot more this year. He’ll be one of the best African artists ever to come up this year. He’s really a godsend because his first project went number 1 in Lagos, the single went to number 1 in Lagos, and his album went to number 2 in the whole of Nigeria, so I know his next project is getting better and I know Tml the year is a lot of trouble. Man, I can’t wait for him to blow more."&nbsp;</em></p>

<p>Seyi Vibez favours the use of orchestra and choral vocals in his music and he credits this to the influence of Fuji music maestro Wasiu Ayinde and Afrobeat creator <strong>Fela</strong> <strong>Kuti</strong> whose music he was exposed to while growing up.</p>

<p><em>“Those backing vocals came from the legendary music chants I used to know in Nigeria. When I was growing up - I was 12, 13, 14 - my dad used to play me Fela Kuti. He’s the one that made me know about Fela Kuti, then I studied about Fela Kuti and it made me know about K1 De Ultimate. You see all these people have [backing choirs] in their songs.</em></p>

<p><em>One day I sat down, and I thought about it like, why are we not using backup [choirs] in our songs? Is it because of the African performance? Is it why they record their stage performance as audio? So I’m like, what I want to start doing on stage is have a choir on my stage and also have a choir in the studio. That’s how I started.”</em></p>

<p>Seyi Vibez ended 2023 with the release of his&nbsp;<em>'NAHAMciaga' EP</em>&nbsp;and he opened 2024 with the release of the music video for&nbsp;<em>'Different Pattern'&nbsp;</em>off the EP. Fans will be looking forward to another music-filled year from the Street music sensation.</p>

Seyi Vibez surpasses 1 billion Audiomack streams

Since breaking into the mainstream in 2022 with his hit single 'Chance', Seyi Vibez has enjoyed commercials through his eclectic blend of traditional genres with mainstream elements.

Everyone thinks I'm older than my age - Seyi Vibez

<h2>American pop star Taylor Swift continues to stake her claim to the title of the best-selling artist of this century as she surpassed over 1 billion dollars in music tour tickets.</h2>

<p>In an estimation released by Pollstar, Taylor Swift's "<strong>Eras Tour"</strong> grossed over $1.04 billion in ticket sales from 60 shows in 2023 with the tickets selling for an average price of $238.</p>

<p>This sees Taylor Swift becoming the first artist to surpass over $1 billion in music tour ticket sales with <strong>Elton John</strong>'s<strong> "Farewell Tour"</strong> the second highest-grossing tour with over $900 million.</p>

<p>Taylor Swift's touring records is another landmark feat for the artist who leading the charts in pure record sales. The singer has re-recorded for albums with the latest being<em>&nbsp;'1989'&nbsp;</em>which sold 1.6 million copies in its first week in what's a mind-blowing feat.</p>

<p>She's NO. 21 on Billboard's Greatest Artists of All Time Hot 100 list. She's also NO. 16 on Chart Masters best-selling artists of all time and the only artists from the 21st century in the top 30.</p>

Anita Ko is the new go-to jewelry designer.

Taylor Swift could wear jewelry from any designer she pleases. But lately, she seems to prefer Anita Ko.The same goes for stars including Hailey Bieber, Sydney Sweeney, and Emily Ratajkowski.You might opt for the designer's safety-pin earrings that sta...

American pop star Taylor Swift continues to stake her claim to the title of the best-selling artist of this century as she surpassed over 1 billion dollars in music tour tickets

Taylor Swift makes history after selling over $1 billion dollars in music tour tickets

<h2>Nigerian megastar Davido has sold out the famous O2 Arena ahead of his landmark headline concert scheduled for January 2024.</h2>

<p>This news was revealed in a post on X by The O2 who announced that the multi-award-winning Afrobeats star has sold out the iconic Arena.</p>

<p>At the concert scheduled for January 28, 2024, Davido will be performing at the 20,000 O2 Arena in a headline show which is one of the stops for his<strong><em> "Timeless Tour"</em></strong>.</p>

<p>The tour kicked off in 2023 following the release of<a href="https://www.pulse.ng/entertainment/music/davidos-timeless-shatters-multiple-nigerian-streaming-records/s8fge75"> Davido's record-breaking fourth album<em> 'Timeless'</em></a><em> </em>and has had stops in different cities around the world.</p>

<p>Davido's upcoming O2 Arena concert will mark another triumphant return to the iconic hall after becoming the <a href="https://www.pulse.ng/entertainment/music/the-02-arena-and-the-international-rise-of-afrobeats/ltnhsjv">first Nigerian solo artist to sell out the O2 Arena in 2019</a>.</p>

<p>In 2022, Davido also performed at the O2 as one of the stops for his <strong><em>"We Rise By Lifting Others Tour"</em></strong>.</p>

<p>After his January 28 headline show, Davido's focus is expected to turn to the <a href="https://www.pulse.ng/entertainment/music/full-nominations-list-for-the-2024-grammy-awards/5e3w5mx">2024 Grammy Awards </a>where he's nominated for Best African Song Performance for<em>&nbsp;'Unavailable'</em>, Best Global Song Performance for&nbsp;<em>'Feel',</em>&nbsp;and Best Global Album for&nbsp;<em>'Timeless'.&nbsp;</em></p>

Nigerian megastar Davido has sold out the famous O2 Arena ahead of his landmark headline concert scheduled for January 2024.

Davido sells out O2 Arena ahead of his January headline concert

<h2>In a monumental achievement, The Weeknd's smash-hit single&nbsp;<em>'Blinding Lights'&nbsp;</em>has etched its name in the annals of music history by becoming the first song to surpass an unprecedented 4 billion streams on the global music streaming platform, Spotify.</h2>

<p>Since its release in 2020 as part of the song on the<strong><em>&nbsp;'After Hours'</em></strong>&nbsp;album, "Blinding Lights" has emerged as a cultural phenomenon, captivating listeners worldwide with its infectious beats, evocative lyrics, and The Weeknd's soulful vocals.</p>

<p>The song's success has been nothing short of meteoric, solidifying its status as a modern classic and The Weeknd's place as one of the best-selling artists of all time.</p>

<p>The accompanying music video for&nbsp;<em>'Blinding Lights'</em>&nbsp;has also played a significant role in the song's success. The video fashioned after The Joker aesthetics which was The Weeknd's persona for the <strong><em>'After Hours' </em></strong>album has surpassed 780 million views on YouTube.</p>

<p>In 2023, The Canadian megastar's<strong><em>&nbsp;"The After Hour Till Dawn Tour"</em></strong>&nbsp;saw him break Michael Jackson's record for the <a href="https://www.pulse.ng/entertainment/music/the-weeknds-after-hours-till-dawn-sets-new-grossing-record/g3gnhc4">highest-grossing tour by a black artist</a>.</p>

<p>As the first song to surpass 4 billion streams on Spotify, <em>'Blinding Lights'</em> continues to extend its record as the most streamed song on the platform even as The Weeknd retains his crown as the<a href="https://www.pulse.ng/entertainment/music/the-weeknd-declared-the-most-popular-artist-in-the-world-by-guiness-world-record/skqxqe3"> artist with the most Spotify monthly listeners</a>.</p>

The Weeknd's "After Hours" is an elaborate character study with impeccable production.

Year: 2021, at the 63rd annual Grammy AwardsAOTY nominees (winner in bold): "Black Pumas" by Black Pumas, "Chilombo" by Jhen Aiko, "Djesse Vol. 3" by Jacob Collier, "Everyday Life" by Coldplay, "Folklore" by Taylor Swift, "Future Nostalgia" by Dua Lipa...

In a monumental achievement, The Weeknd's smash-hit single 'Blinding Lights' has etched its name in the annals of music history by becoming the first song to surpass an unprecedented 4 billion streams on the global music streaming platform, Spotify.

The Weeknd's 'Blinding Light' sets new Spotify streaming record

<h2>In the history of Nigerian music, 2Baba is an icon who stands out for his mercurial talent and massive contributions to the sonic evolution and commercialization of Afrobeats.</h2>

<p>For over 2 decades, the seminal Afrobeats star 2Baba has dazzled fans across the globe with his music. From his stellar penmanship, remarkable versatility, compelling vocals, and superstar aura, 2Baba is one of the greatest artists the Nigerian music industry has ever seen.</p>

<p>Earlier this year, the legend shared that he was in the studio cooking as he aims to give fans new music. In the spirit of Afrobeats Throwback Thursday, we look back at some of the classic songs by the legend.</p>

<p>From era-defining R&amp;B cuts to cross-continental Pop records that serve as the foundation for Afropop to Hip Hop records that display his versatility, and party-starting jams that underscore his superstardom, 2Baba's discography is littered with hit records.</p>

<p>As fans await the possible arrival of a new album, here are 30 unforgettable hit records from the seminal superstar.</p>

<h3><strong><em>African Queen&nbsp;</em></strong></h3>

<p>One of the most impactful songs to ever come out of Africa, the music video for<em> 'African Queen' </em>was the first song to be played when MTV Base launched in Africa in 2005.</p>

<p><em>'African Queen'&nbsp;</em>brought 2Baba international acclaim and solidified his claim as Africa's foremost music star.</p>

<h3><strong><em>Implication</em></strong></h3>

<p>One of his biggest hits, this song is one of the tracks on the international edition of his Headies winning<em>&nbsp;'Unstoppable'&nbsp;</em>album. The single dominated speakers around the country and reinforced 2Baba's place as one of Afrobeats' foremost hitmakers.</p>

<p>"Before Afrobeats to the World" received a major boundary-defiling boost, 2Baba contributed massively to exporting Nigerian music through international collaborations.</p>

<p><em>'My Love'</em>&nbsp;featuring Ghanaian era-defining group VIP was one of the earliest cross-over Nigerian Afrobeats songs.</p>

<p>The superlative nature of his talent shines on this record where he effortlessly scores a smash hit while engaging in thought-provoking social commentary. And it's records like these where his penmanship dazzles, his genre-bending versatility stuns, and his vocals shine that underscore the magnitude of his ability.</p>

<h3>&nbsp;<em>Amaka feat&nbsp;</em><strong>Perruzi</strong></h3>

<p>This is a smash hit record in partnership with Peruzzi who is one of the many artists influenced by 2baba. The song captures 2Baba's indefatigability and longevity as a hitmaker.</p>

<ul><li><em>True Love&nbsp;</em></li><li><em>For Instance</em></li><li><em>Love Is A Crime&nbsp;</em></li><li><em>Low&nbsp;&nbsp;</em></li><li><em>Enter The Place&nbsp;</em></li><li><em>Be There&nbsp;</em></li><li><em>Nfana Ibaga&nbsp;</em></li><li><em>We Must Groove feat&nbsp;</em><strong>Burna Boy</strong><em>&nbsp;</em></li><li><em>See Me So&nbsp;</em></li><li><em>Holy&nbsp;</em></li><li><em>Ole</em></li><li><em>Ife Dinma feat&nbsp;</em><strong>Tony One Week</strong></li><li><em>Rainbow&nbsp;</em></li><li><em>Ihe Ne Me</em></li><li><em>Dance Floor</em></li><li><em>Go feat&nbsp;</em><strong>Macheal Montano&nbsp;</strong></li><li><em>No Shaking&nbsp;</em></li><li><em>You No Holy Pass</em></li><li><em>Oyi feat&nbsp;</em><strong>Hi Idibia</strong></li><li><em>Opo feat&nbsp;</em><strong>Wizkid</strong><em>&nbsp;</em></li><li><em>Target You&nbsp;</em>feat<em>&nbsp;</em><strong>Syemca</strong></li><li><em>Rain Drops</em></li><li><em>Dance Go&nbsp;</em>feat<em>&nbsp;</em><strong>Wizkid</strong><em>&nbsp;</em></li><li><em>I Dey Feel Like&nbsp;</em></li><li><em>E Be Like Say&nbsp;</em></li></ul>

30 Unforgettable hit songs by the legendary 2Baba

In the history of Nigerian music, 2Baba is an icon that stands out for his mercurial talent and massive contributions to the sonic evolution and commercialization of Afrobeats.

30 Unforgettable hit songs by the legendary 2Baba [Afrobeats Throwback]

<h2>Since breaking into the mainstream in 2019 after the release of his critically acclaimed and commercially successful debut album&nbsp;<em>'Laughter, Tears, and Goosebumps'</em>, Fireboy has become one of Nigeria's most reliable Popstars.</h2>

<p>In a recent interview on<strong> Beat FM</strong>, the award-winning hitmaker was asked if he would still make the type of music he made in his debut album that rocketed him to mainstream success, Fireboy said he has outgrown that type of music.</p>

<p>Fireboy shared that he's in a phase where he has experienced different things and this will shape the way he made music.</p>

<p><em>"People need to understand that artists are human beings and they evolve,"&nbsp;</em>Fireboy said as he gave insight into how he can't hold the same mindset he had as the 23-year-old who made <em>'LTG'</em> when he was a 27-year-old millionaire with many experiences.</p>

<p>Fireboy's statement on personal growth and evolution is not withdrawn from the remarks of fans who keep demanding that he make the type of music that made them fall in love with him.</p>

<p>Fireboy showcased a lover boy persona for his impressive debut album<em>&nbsp;'LTG'&nbsp;</em>and he retained this side in his sophomore effort&nbsp;<em>'Apollo'</em>.</p>

<p>In his third album<em> 'Playboy',</em> the artist who holds the joint<a href="https://www.pulse.ng/entertainment/music/a-look-at-ten-memorable-moments-in-the-history-of-the-headies-awards/1m6862w"> record for the most Headies wins in a single night </a>made an artistic 180 as he embraced a more swashbuckling playboy persona.</p>

<p>Fans appear to have struggled to reconcile the Playboy-inspired music with the lover boy they have come to adore. However, Fireboy doesn't seem interested in bringing back the old Fireboy.</p>

<p>His latest interview indicates that he's in a different mindset and listeners will learn to embrace his new persona while he will also be aiming to offer them the type of brilliant music that will make it easier for them to join him on the ride.</p>

Since breaking into the mainstream in 2019 after the release of his critically acclaimed and commercially successful debut album 'Laughter, Tears, and Goosebumps', Fireboy has become one of Nigeria's most reliable Popstars.

Fireboy shares how being a millionaire changed him

<h2>The Kenya music group Sauti Sol won the hearts of listeners across the continent for their music that richly explores African elements.</h2>

<p>After over a decade together, the <a href="https://www.pulselive.co.ke/entertainment/celebrities/sauti-sol-addresses-rumours-behind-cause-of-their-indefinite-hiatus-while-in-us-for/4m5bql5">award-winning Kenya group announced that they will be going on an indefinite break</a> following over 20 years together.</p>

<p>While appearing in an interview on <strong>IMO</strong> <strong>Podcast</strong>, Bien who was Sauti Sol's lead vocalist gave insights into why the band broke up.</p>

<p>According to Bien, the group decided to take a break because they were at a point in their lives were they were getting a bit complacent and they wanted to try something new and explore different possibilities.</p>

<p><em>"We needed new experiences and new challenges," </em>Bien says about the motivation behind the band's decision to embark on a break.</p>

<p>When asked if it was a tough decision, Bien shared that the band went on group therapy for 2 years and they were assisted by a life coach to arrive at the decision.</p>

<p>Despite embarking on a break, Bien is confident that there will be another glorious Sauti Sol moment in the future while also revealing that the bands were still actively involved in each other's solo projects.</p>

<p>During their over 20-year run together, Sauti Sol was at the peak of African music with their talent winning them several awards including a Grammy recognition as the producers of Burna Boy's single<em>&nbsp;'Time Flies'&nbsp;</em>off his <a href="https://www.pulse.ng/entertainment/music/burna-boy-wins-grammy-for-twice-as-tall/wwgqncl">Grammy-winning album<em>&nbsp;'Twice As Tall'</em></a><em>.</em></p>

The Kenya music group Sauti Sol won the hearts of listeners across the continent for their music that richly explores African elements.

Bien reveals that Sauti Sol attended therapy before embarking on hiatus

<h2>In 2023, the Nigerian music industry was rocked by the sad news of the passing of Street Hop sensation Mohbad who died at the age of 27.</h2>

<p>Months after the passing of the musician, his father Mr. Apostle Oluwabamiwo Aloba AKA Omo Jesu has announced the impending arrival of a new gospel album.</p>

<p>The album titled 'Itunu' means "Comfort" in English and it's a tribute to his late son Mohbad who passed away on September 12, 2023 who passed out after receiving an injection to treat an infection he sustained from an injury.</p>

<p>Mohbad's passing was one of the biggest events in the Nigerian music industry in 2023. Tributes poured in from colleagues and fans all around the country including. <a href="https://www.pulse.ng/entertainment/music/lil-durk-and-kodak-black-pay-tribute-to-mohbad/g0tj067">American rappers Meek Mill, Lil Durk, and Kodak Black also paid tribute to the late artist</a> whose death led to calls for a thorough investigation over allegations of bullying and oppression from some former associates.</p>

<p>Mohbad's father's upcoming album is set to join the <a href="https://www.pulse.ng/entertainment/music/nigerian-artists-record-over-50-songs-in-honour-of-mohbad/0x37ck3">long list of tribute songs dedicated to the late musician</a> who was one of Street Hop's foremost emissaries.</p>

Mohbad's father to drop gospel album dedicated to late son

In 2023, the Nigerian music industry was rocked by the sad news of the passing of Street Hop sensation Mohbad who died at the age of 27.

Mohbad's father is set to drop a gospel album

<h2>Since breaking into the mainstream in 2019 with her eponymous debut EP, Ayra Starr has become one of the female stars whose music is adding excitement and promoting Afrobeats to a global audience.</h2>

<p>In an interview with Arise News, the award-winning singer revealed how she came about her stage name haven earlier went by Oyin derived from her first name <strong>Oyinkansola</strong>.</p>

<p>According to Ayra Starr, she wanted to be called "Ira" in Yoruba but she wanted people to pronounce the name as "Ayra" so she decided to google the word "Ayra", and she instantly fell in love with the meaning.</p>

<p>On how she came about the Starr in her stage name, the singer shared that it was given to her by legendary music executive and Mavin Records founder <strong>Don Jazzy </strong>who according to Ayra, wanted everyone to know she's a star.</p>

<p>Since breaking into the limelight, Ayra Starr has become a household name with her music winning her listeners around the world and several awards.</p>

<p>The singer has enjoyed a hugely successful 2023 with her hit singles<em>&nbsp;'Rush'</em>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<em>'Sability'&nbsp;</em>enjoying commercial success.</p>

<p>The singer recently became the first Nigerian female lead artist and the youngest Nigerian artist to be nominated for the Grammys after her hit single<em>&nbsp;'Rush'</em>&nbsp;was nominated for the<a href="https://www.pulse.ng/entertainment/music/full-nominations-list-for-the-2024-grammy-awards/5e3w5mx"> Best African Song Performance</a>.</p>

Ayra Starr drops new single 'Rhythm & Blues'

Since breaking into the mainstream in 2019 with her eponymous debut EP, Ayra Starr has become one of the female stars whose music is adding excitement and promoting Afrobeats to a global audience.

Ayra Starr shares how Don Jazzy added the 'Starr' to her stage name

<h2>Rema is one of the superstars propelling Nigerian and African music through his mercurial talent that has helped him win several awards and captivate millions of fans globally.</h2>

<p>In an interview with Nandi Madiba of Applesic Africa Now Radio, Rema shared that while he's certain in his ability to make an Amapiano hit record, he prefers to explore the South African genre from an authentic angle.</p>

<p>In the interview, Rema revealed that he feels more spirit in South African Amapiano than the Nigerian variant. He also shared that his desire to make the music in its undiluted form led him to seek education from South African star&nbsp;<strong>Musa</strong>&nbsp;<strong>Keys</strong>.</p>

<p><em>"I feel like tapping into a sound, most especially when it’s within Africa, I take my time to study. I don’t jump on the wave, I take my time to understand things. When I and Musa Keys were in the studio, I was like ‘I know a lot of Nigerians are doing Amapiano but I need you to educate me about Amapiano’. I don’t want to just hop on it. Yes, I can make a banger, but it’s like can you teach me? When I hear the ones from South Africa it holds more spirit than the ones from anywhere else."</em></p>

<p>Rema shared that he's open to collaborations as that allows him to learn from others. He intends to take his time to learn about Amapiano before tapping into the sound.</p>

<p><em>"Although I don’t understand everything they’re saying, I can feel the particles, the elements, or the spiritual essence of the music. I know there’s a lot of amapiano from different parts of Africa, but educate me about yours, right? I feel like that’s necessary. I’m so down to collaborate, and while I collaborate I want to learn, I don’t want to do it the wrong way. Yes, Amapiano is a sound I really want to tap into but give me time with that!"</em></p>

<p>In the past two years,<a href="https://www.pulse.ng/entertainment/music/top-10-beneficiaries-of-amapiano-in-afrobeats/c87jw4g"> Amapiano has played a dominant role in the Nigerian mainstream</a> with Afrobeats superstars domesticating the South African import.</p>

<p><strong>Asake</strong>'s 2022 run was propelled by his exploration of Amapiano. Similarly,&nbsp;<strong>Seyi Vibez</strong>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<strong>Shallipopi</strong>&nbsp;are two artists who have used Amapiano influences to gain mainstream success.</p>

I asked Musa Keys to educate me on Amapiano - Rema [Instagram/Rema]

Rema is one of the superstars propelling Nigerian and African music through his mercurial talent that has helped him win several awards and captivate millions of fans globally.

I asked Musa Keys to educate me on Amapiano - Rema

<h2>Afrobeats megastar Davido is poised to take centre stage at NYC’s iconic Madison Square Garden on April 17, 2024, marking his first-ever concert at this legendary venue.</h2>

<p>The electrifying performance is slated to be a highlight of his extended <strong>Timeless</strong> <strong>Tour</strong>, produced by Duke Concept, spanning across North America.</p>

<p>The highly-anticipated tour will kick off with the monumental Madison Square Garden show, followed by a mesmerising performance at Montreal’s Place Bell on April 19 and culminating with a highly-anticipated finale at Orlando’s Additional Financial Arena on April 24.</p>

<p>Davido expressed his exhilaration stating,<em> “Seven years ago, I walked past Madison Square Garden and looked at it and said, ‘We gonna come back and shut this down.' So to be here now, able to play Madison Square Garden, in New York, one of the first cities and fans to embrace my music, at this iconic venue … it’s a dream come true.”</em></p>

<p>This milestone performance follows the trailblazing success of fellow Nigerian artists at MSG, with<a href="https://www.pulse.ng/entertainment/music/burna-boy-becomes-the-first-ever-nigerian-to-sell-out-the-madison-square-garden/zme72xz"> Burna Boy's historic stint in April 2022</a> and <strong>Wizkid</strong>’s unforgettable concert in November 2022, underscoring the rising influence of Nigerian music on the global stage.</p>

<p>Adding to the excitement, Davido stands nominated for the esteemed categories of Best African Music Performance for his summer smash hit <em>Unavailable</em> with <strong>Musa</strong> <strong>Keys</strong>, and <a href="https://www.pulse.ng/entertainment/music/full-nominations-list-for-the-2024-grammy-awards/5e3w5mx">Best Global Music Album</a> for his critically acclaimed fourth studio album, <em>Timeless</em>, in anticipation of the 2024 Grammy Awards.</p>

<p>Released via Davido Music Worldwide in March 2023, <em>Timeless</em> soared to No. 37 on the Billboard 200 and claimed the No. 2 spot on World Albums. The album’s title track, <em>Timeless</em>, secured impressive positions at No. 3 on both U.S. Afrobeats Songs and World Digital Song Sales charts.</p>

<p>As anticipation mounts for this groundbreaking event, Davido’s fans and music enthusiasts alike can expect an unparalleled musical experience as the Nigerian megastar graces the stage of Madison Square Garden, cementing his legacy as a global music icon.</p>

Afrobeats megastar Davido is poised to take center stage at NYC’s iconic Madison Square Garden on April 17, 2024, marking his first-ever concert at this legendary venue.

Davido set to headline his first concert at Madison Square Garden

<h2>For many African music fans, Awilo Logomba is a legend whose music soundtracked the 2000s, broke language barriers, and dominated speakers in multiple countries.</h2>

<p>Decades after his hit album<em>&nbsp;'Coupé Bibamba'</em><strong><em>&nbsp;</em></strong>became a household hit on the continent, Awilo's music continues to inspire new generations of African artists.</p>

<p>The latest artist to be influenced by Awilo Logomba is rising music sensation M3lon who on November 24, 2023, released a single named after the legendary African hitmaker.</p>

<p>Aside from naming his song after the Congolese legend, M3lon also recreated one of Awilo's iconic cover art.</p>

<p>In a post on his Instagram account, African music legend <strong>Awilo</strong> <strong>Logomba</strong> reacted to the tribute which he warmly acknowledged.</p>

<p><em>"Power to the young people,"&nbsp;</em>Awilo wrote on his Instagram as he cheers on a new generation of artists who are inspired by his work.</p>

<p>M3lon's tribute to Awilo is not the first of its kind in the Nigerian music industry in 2023. Earlier this year, sensational singer Ayra Starr sampled one of Awilo's classics in her hit single&nbsp;<em>'Sability'.</em></p>

Awilo Logomba reacts to tribute song by Nigerian singer M3lon

For many African music fans, Awilo Logomba is a legend whose music soundtracked the 2000s, broke language barriers, and dominated speakers in multiple countries

Music legend Awilo Logomba reacts to tribute song by Nigerian singer M3lon

<h2>After the 2023 Billboard Music Awards, some of the biggest artists in the world has broken multiple awards and erected new one in their steads. </h2>

<p><strong>Drake</strong>&nbsp;extended his record as the most awarded artist in the BMAs history, however,&nbsp;<strong>Taylor Swift</strong>&nbsp;not only extended her record as the most awarded female artist ever, but she also tied Drake’s record and joined him as the most awarded artist of all time - Swift and Drake both won 39 BMAs throughout their careers.<strong>&nbsp;</strong></p>

<p><strong>Bad Bunny</strong>&nbsp;extended his record as the most awarded artist in the Top Latin Artist category, while&nbsp;<strong>The Weeknd</strong>&nbsp;increased his numbers in the rankings of the most awarded artists of all time.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Many records were also broken by country artists since this marked the first time that a country artist won in the Top New Artist (<strong>Zach Bryan</strong>) and Top Male Artist (<strong>Morgan Wallen</strong>) categories!&nbsp;</p>

<p>See the multiple records broken at the<a href="https://www.pulse.ng/entertainment/music/the-full-winners-list-at-the-2023-billboard-music-awards/z51vv9y"> 2023 Billboard Music Awards</a> as compiled by <a href="https://www.vegasinsider.com/">VegasInsider</a>. </p>

<h3><strong>TAYLOR SWIFT&nbsp;</strong></h3>

<ul><li><strong>Taylor Swift&nbsp;</strong>tied Drake’s record for the most overall wins at the BMAs after winning 10 awards at the 2023 ceremony - before the ceremony, she had amassed 29 Billboard Music Awards and Drake had won 34 awards, but he won additional 5 in 2023, bringing them to a tie of 39 total wins</li><li><strong>Taylor Swift</strong>&nbsp;extended her record as the most awarded female artist in the BMAs history with 39 total wins (the closest female artist to Taylor Swift at the BMAs is Adele with 18 wins)&nbsp;</li><li><strong>Taylor Swift&nbsp;</strong>equaled Drake’s record as the most awarded artist in the Best Artist category (this was her 3rd win), and she also broke her tie with Adele (who won 2 times) and become the sole holder of the record for the female artist with the most wins in the Best Artist category</li><li><strong>Taylor Swift&nbsp;</strong>extended her record as the most awarded artist in the Top Female Artist category (this was her 5th win)&nbsp;</li><li><strong>Taylor Swift&nbsp;</strong>extended her record as the most awarded artist in the Top Billboard 200 Artist category (this was her 6th win); Swift also tied Drake as the artist with the most consecutive wins in the Top Billboard 200 Artist category - she won in 2021, 2022 and 2023, making it her 3rd win in a row</li></ul>

<ul><li><strong>Drake</strong>&nbsp;extended his record as the most awarded artist in the BMAs history as well as the most awarded male artist ever - he had won 34 awards in the past, winning additional 5 trophies in 2023, thus bringing his total to 39</li><li><strong>Drake</strong>&nbsp;extended his record as the most awarded artist in the Top Rap Artist category (this was his 5th win in the category) as well as the Top Rap Male Artists (this was his 3rd win in the category)</li><li><strong>Drake</strong>&nbsp;extended his record for the most wins in the Top Rap Album category (he won his fourth trophy for “Her Loss”) and thus broke his tie with Eminem, who won 3 times in this category (*if counted together with 2002’s Top Hip-Hop/ R&amp;B Album Category where Eminem won for “The Eminem Show”)</li></ul>

<h3><strong>COUNTRY RECORDS</strong></h3>

<ul><li><strong>Zach Bryan&nbsp;</strong>became the first country artist to win in the Top New Artist category (*at one point, there was a Top New Country Artist Award at the BMAs, so this applies to the overall Top New Artist awarded regardless of a genre)</li><li><strong>Morgan Wallen&nbsp;</strong>became<strong>&nbsp;</strong>the first country artist to win in the Top Male Artist category</li><li><strong>Morgan Wallen&nbsp;</strong>became the first country artist to win in the Top Streaming Songs Artist category</li></ul>

<h3><strong>LATIN ARTISTS RECORDS</strong></h3>

<ul><li><strong>Bad Bunny</strong>&nbsp;extended his record for the most wins in the Best Latin Artist category (this is his 4th win) as well as the most consecutive wins in the category (he has won for the past 4 years)</li><li><strong>"Ella Baila Sola"</strong>&nbsp;by Eslabon Armado &amp; Peso Pluma became the first song by a Mexican / Mexican-American artist to win in the Top Latin Song category</li><li><strong>Fuerza Regida</strong>&nbsp;became the first Mexican American group to ever win in the Top Duo/Group category</li></ul>

<h3><strong>OTHER RECORD HIGHLIGHTS</strong></h3>

<ul><li><strong>Lauren Daigle</strong>&nbsp;extended her record as the most awarded artist in the Top Christian Artist category (this was her 4th win)&nbsp;</li><li><strong>Brandon Lake&nbsp;</strong>became the first artist to win for a second time in the Top Christian Song category</li><li><strong>The Weeknd&nbsp;</strong>increased his numbers in the rankings of the most awarded artists in the BMAs history - after winning 2 awards in 2023, The Weeknd is the fourth most awarded artist of all time with 22 total wins after Taylor Swift, Drake and Justin Bieber.</li></ul>

45 records that can be broken by in 2023 Billboard Music Awards

After the 2023 Billboard Music Awards, some of the biggest artists in the world has broken multiple awards and erected new one in their steads

Taylor Swift, Drake, Bad Bunny, The Weeknd break multiple BBMAs records

<h2>Rema has enjoyed a remarkable 2023 with his hit single<em> 'Calm Down' </em>enjoying global success which he marked with a landmark sold-out show at the famous O2 Arena.</h2>

<p><a href="https://www.pulse.ng/entertainment/music/rema-dazzles-in-landmark-o2-concert/g6smgqv">Rema's landmark show has since sparked a reaction from some concertgoers </a>who found his choice of clothing and stage props to carry elements of demonic undertones.</p>

<p>The Nigerian superstar entered the concert riding on a horse while clothed in a black flowing robe and adorned in a red mask. Rema also made a second grand entrance clothed in red and black while riding to the stage on the back of a huge Bat with red eyes.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.pulse.ng/entertainment/music/remas-o2-show-reignites-allegations-of-satanism-in-his-music/8n1h2cx">His fashion choices and stage design reignited conversations of satanism in his artistic interpretation</a>s. Rema has previously dismissed these claims while stating that he's a Christian.</p>

<p>The 23-year-old who is the youngest African to sell out the O2 took to his X (formally Twitter) account to share the inspiration behind the horse and mask he used for his O2 concert.</p>

<p>According to Rema, his decision was inspired by Edo culture whose awe-inspiring arts were carted away by the invading British in 1897 and remain locked up in the London Museum far away from Bini Kingdom where they rightfully belong.</p>

<p>The horse he rode in on is synonymous with Edo art while the mask is fashioned after that of the great Edo monarch<strong> Queen Idia</strong>.</p>

<p>Rema's imagery has always carried esoteric elements and some fans who are conversant with his avant-garde approach might not ascribe it to dark arts. However, several other fans and observers consider it to be disturbing.</p>

Bini culture inspired Rema's costume for O2 Arena concert

Rema has enjoyed a remarkable 2023 with his hit single 'Calm Down' enjoying global success which he marked with a landmark sold-out show at the famous O2 Arena

Rema says Edo culture inspired the art direction for his O2 Arena concert

<h2>After enjoying a remarkable year of global success, Rema marked his superstar status in a sold-out show in the historic O2 Arena.&nbsp;</h2>

<p>On a historic night, Rema dazzled listeners with an energetic performance of a collection of his hit singles across his impressive catalogue.&nbsp;</p>

<p>A notable feature of the night was Rema's choice of entry which had fans talking and reignited the allegations that his brand leans into satanism.&nbsp;</p>

<p>To kick off the show, Rema descended on a horse adorned in red and black. Rema's outfit choice was also black and red as the superstar wore a flowing black cape and a red mask fashioned after the famous mask of the legendary Benin <strong>Queen Idia</strong>.&nbsp;</p>

<p>On his second stage appearance, Rema was clothed in a red and black futuristic military gear attire while he rode to the stage on the back of a large Bat whose eyes were covered in red.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Rema's choice of stagecraft and aesthetics generated a reaction from some of the concertgoers who found it to have elements of satanism.&nbsp;</p>

<p>One particular female fan who attended the concert recorded a video where she encouraged other concertgoers to pray when they get home because of elements of diabolism depicted at the concert.&nbsp;</p>

<p>His O2 concert wasn't the first time Rema would be accused of engaging in satanism. The superstar wears a chain that depicts a burning church. His choice of jewelry sparked public reaction and even led the Ethiopian Orthodox church to write a petition stopping them from performing in the country.&nbsp;</p>

<p>While some of his choice of imagery and branding are esoteric and may come off as dark art to some fans, this is not new to Rema who has consistently shown his avant-garde style since breaking into the mainstream in 2019.&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.pulse.ng/entertainment/celebrities/jesus-is-king-rema-dismisses-illuminati-initiation-claims/tm3379g">Rema has also dismissed the allegation of him being a satanist </a>or a member of the Illuminati celebrity satanist cult. In a recent post on his Instagram story, he shared his Christian faith by stating that Jesus is King. </p>