Showbiz
Rising Stars of West Africa: Spotify Spotlights Must-Hear Talents for 2024
Africa is a treasure trove of creative talents and building on from the massive success that African music experienced in 2023, this year promises the unveiling of exciting new voices that should grab the attention of musical lovers across the continent and even beyond.
From soulful singers to trailblazing artists, these emerging talents are going to be the ones to watch this year as they put in work to captivate audiences and redefine the pulse of Africa’s music scene.
Spotify, the world’s leading streaming platform, has taken notice, unveiling a captivating list of rising stars from Sub-Saharan Africa (SSA) poised to make their mark on the local and global music scenes in 2024.
These fresh voices embrace familiar sounds, while adding their innovative twists, creating a melting pot of potential that could shift the musical landscape. Think Afrobeats infused with jazz improvisation or hip-hop spiked with electronic flourishes, resulting in sonically captivating sound blends bound to captivate listeners all over. They are woven from across the diverse threads of Nigeria and Ghana, bringing a rich tapestry of styles, cultures, and perspectives to the forefront.
NIGERIA
Meet Chimamanda Pearl Chukwuma, better known by her stage name Qing Madi, a 17-year-old Nigerian prodigy taking the music world by storm. Her journey began at 16 with the viral sensation See Finish, a single that ignited the internet and showcased her raw talent. The Nigerian Afropop singer and a Spotify EQUAL Africa artist won the hearts of many with her track Ole and its remix featuring a Bnxn. Her self-titled EP slowly climbed up the charts with tracks like Vision and American Love quickly becoming favourites, proving her versatility and depth as an artist. We anticipate a blooming 2024 for Qing Madi.
Let’s dive into the world of Guchi, whose real name is Ugochi Lydia Onuoha, a vibrant and talented Nigerian Afropop singer making waves in the music scene. Her music has made her incredibly popular in Nigeria, and she’s seen as one of the top emerging female artists in the country. The Nigerian singer and songwriter went viral with tracks like All Over You last year and doubled down with Feeling Good featuring Bayanni. Her sound is simple yet truly characteristic of Afrobeats singers like Yemi Alade and Tiwa Savage. She is definitely an artist to watch.
Popularly known as Seddy, SGaWD is a Nigerian rapper currently making waves in the industry. The multi-hyphenate singer has played in the realms of Alte, R&B and HipHop the last few years but her experimentation with Jersey Club, Mara/ Street Music and Rap last year with tracks like Boytoy
and Dump All Your Worries on The Dance Floor put SGawD on a pedestal this year as one to watch when it comes to fusion and cross-continent export.
From Fresh Finds alum to chart-topping sensation, YKB (Yusuf Oluwo Gbolaga) is making his mark on Nigerian music. Tracks like san siro and his captivating duet This Must Be Love with King Promise showcase his vibrant Afropop sound and growing talent. YKB isn’t afraid to get creative, from cult followings to captivating covers, he’s wiggling his way into the hearts of fans – and the Nigerian music scene itself. This is just the beginning for YKB, so keep your ears open for more infectious energy and hit songs.
GHANA
O’Kenneth’s a supernova blazing across the Ghanaian music scene. This hip-hop and drill artist, known for his deep tenor vocals and lyrics, is a leading voice in the Asakaa movement. While his track LONELY ROAD, with Xlimkid, ripped through the final quarter of 2023, his versatile features throughout the year proved his undeniable talent. So 2024 get ready, O’Kenneth’s poised for a stratospheric rise.
Ghanaian music is experiencing a soulful surge with the arrival of Kelvin Black alias AratheJay. This rising star blends traditional African sounds with contemporary beats, weaving intricate stories through his vocals. Tracks like Sankofa – Remix and PRACTICE showcase his introspective songwriting and resonate deeply with listeners. Not only does AratheJay effortlessly navigate between rap and hiplife, but he injects the Ghanaian music scene with exciting freshness. Could 2024 be the year his unique sound would catapult him to stardom?
If you’re a fan of on-screen glamour and show-stopping fashion moments, Showmax has a trunk full of movies and series featuring cast that served unforgettable looks. From daring couture to timeless elegance, these shows are bound to help you improve your fashion sense.
Ready to immerse yourself in a world of glamour? Here are our top fashionable and diva-worthy picks
THE REAL HOUSEWIVES OF LAGOS SEASON 1-2
This reality TV show delves into the luxurious lives of Lagos socialites, spotlighting their shopping sprees, glamorous parties, jet-setting adventures, and the unspoken competition within their elite circles.
Iyabo Ojo, Toyin Lawani, Laura Ikeji, and Chioma Ikokwu steal the spotlight, consistently delivering impeccable fashion moments. From haute couture to luxury streetwear, these ladies showcase high fashion and elegance, proving they’re as much trendsetters as they are power players.
The first Nigerian installment of this award-winning franchise, distributed internationally by NBCUniversal Formats, a division of Universal Studio Group, returned for a highly anticipated second season in September 2023, bringing even more drama, style, and opulence to the screen.
Watch the trailer here: https://youtu.be/nBnnf3UKJpo
THE REAL HOUSEWIVES OF ABUJA
The new series takes viewers into the extravagant lives of six influential and accomplished women in Abuja.
The cast includes Arafa, Comfort Booth, OJ Posharella, Princess Jecoco, Samantha Homossany, and Tutupie as they navigate their luxurious lifestyles, relationships, families, and businesses in the heart of Nigeria’s capital and beyond. These women bring ultimate diva vibes with every appearance, serving bold, glamorous, and trend-setting fashion moments that redefine fabulousness.
All episodes of The Real Housewives of Abuja are now available for your binge-watching pleasure!
Watch the trailer here: https://youtu.be/xZBaxGEBnUw
STYLE MAGNATE
In Style Magnate, 20 talented designers embark on a month-long journey that will push their creativity, skill, and endurance to the limit. At the end of it all, only one designer will be crowned the winner and awarded a life-changing opportunity to launch their career as a designer for the stars.
Nigerian fashion designer and icon Mai Atafo, celebrated for his award-winning designs and expertise is on hand as the show’s Maestro. Hosting duties are expertly handled by Joseph Benjamin while Yolanda Okereke, a renowned stylist and costume designer for film and television, is the show’s Fashion Principal
Watch the trailer here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WKNVu6UUYFk
SADAU SISTERS S1
Sadau Sisters follows the lives of actress Rahama Sadau and her three sisters – Aisha, Fatima, and Zaina – as they navigate the complexities of sisterhood while uncovering deep family secrets and dealing with past traumas.
Set against a backdrop of strong religious and cultural values, the show beautifully highlights the sisters’ impeccable fashion sense that blends both tradition and modernity. In the debut season, the sisters reunite in a new home and city, uncovering many revelations about their family. Stream Sadau Sisters now, with new episodes dropping every week.
Watch the trailer here: https://youtu.be/0iDlm4Xmz5s
FLAWSOME S1-2
Flawsome follows four friends—Ifeyinwa, Ramat, Ivie, and Dolapo—as they navigate personal and professional challenges.
In Season 2, their lives evolve through reconciliations, career struggles, and personal growth, all while looking absolutely fabulous and chic.
With Dami Elebe (Skinny Girl in Transit) as the head writer and Tola Odunsi directing, the new season promises even deeper drama and compelling storytelling.
Watch the trailer here: https://youtu.be/m4oAWBYVLaA
Head over to Showmax now and stream these stylish masterpieces. Sign up for Showmax.
By Modupe Gbadeyanka
A UK-based fashion technology company, Zyler, on Thursday, December 12, 2024, released a digital Christmas Jumper which can be worn for free for free using its fun AI-powered virtual try-on tool.
The alternative sweater was digitally designed by Zenaida Ossana, a talented 3D Artist and Fashion Designer with a rapidly growing following on Instagram.
Zenaida created the magical design using the new AI platform Neural Fashion and was inspired by seascapes and mermaids in her creative process.
“It was fun to work on this design knowing that many people might be able to see it and experience the potential of digital fashion for themselves,” the designer said.
“We think this is a fun use of AI tech, combining VTO and digital fashion to offer consumers an alternative way to participate in this phenomenon.
“We do also acknowledge that these technologies have an environmental footprint, however, we believe that responsible use of AI and digital design considerably outweighs the negative impact of overproduction and discarding of physical clothing,” Zyler’s innovation consultant and digital fashion expert, Karinna Grant, who led this project, explained.
The origin of the Christmas Jumper tradition can be traced back to 19th century Scandinavia where thick warm and brightly coloured jumpers were worn to escape from the cold.
More recently, Statista reported that on average 47 per cent of consumers worldwide enjoy ugly Christmas jumpers. However, that is not what motivated this project.
Zyler collaborated with Zenaida after being made aware of the shocking stats on the overconsumption of Christmas jumpers. True Origin reports that 12 million jumpers are purchased each year in the UK alone and 25 per cent of those are only worn once.
Research by environmental charity Hubbub found that 95 per cent of jumpers are made completely or considerably from synthetic materials. Generally, they are acrylic, and this means that they take over 200 years to decompose.
Consumers can try the jumper experience by visiting Zyler’s flagship Digital Dressing Room and in less than 90 seconds, they can see themselves wearing the distinct design.
The holidays have a way of bringing out our inner child, don’t they? The twinkling lights, the aroma of jollof rice, and the irresistible pull of family traditions—all wrapped up in a comforting cocoon of nostalgia. GOtv is turning back the clock this festive season with a lineup of timeless classics that will take you down memory lane while providing bellyfuls of laughter, adventure, and joy. Here’s your guide to the throwback magic airing on GOtv Channel 3, M-Net Movies 4.
The Road to El Dorado
“Gold, glory, and endless laughs!”
Embark on an animated adventure that’s as gold-filled as it is hilarious. The Road to El Dorado follows two loveable rogues, Tulio and Miguel, as they stumble upon the legendary city of gold. With its vibrant visuals, catchy tunes, and laugh-out-loud moments, this film is a treasure trove of holiday fun. Perfect for anyone who wants a mix of humour, mischief, and heart. Don’t miss it on Monday, December 23rd, at 10:15 am.
Yogi Bear
“Who stole the picnic basket this time?”
Grab your picnic baskets and prepare for some “beary” funny antics with everyone’s favourite bear and his sidekick, Boo-Boo. Yogi Bear is the embodiment of cosy, family-friendly entertainment. Watch as the duo tries to save their beloved Jellystone Park in a story filled with clever schemes, laugh-out-loud moments, and warm holiday vibes. Tune in on Wednesday, December 25th, at 10:25 am.
Austin Powers: The Spy Who Shagged Me
“Groovy, baby!”
Yeah, baby, yeah! Kick up the festive fun with Austin Powers: The Spy Who Shagged Me. This groovy comedy brings the laughs with its over-the-top characters, outrageous one-liners, and a dash of 60s flair. It’s not your traditional holiday movie, but it’s a wild ride that’s sure to inject some unexpected spice into your festive viewing schedule. Catch it on Monday, December 23rd, at 4:15 pm.
Shark Tale
“Underwater fun with a splash of laughs!”
What happens when you mix a talking fish, underwater mobsters, and Will Smith’s undeniable charm? You get Shark Tale—an underwater comedy adventure like no other. This late-night delight is packed with vibrant animation, catchy tunes, and an unforgettable message about staying true to yourself. Watch it on Monday, December 23rd, at 11:55 pm.
Daddy Day Care & Daddy Day Camp
“When dads take the reins, chaos follows!”
Who says dads can’t do it all? Eddie Murphy takes on the hilarious challenge of running a daycare in Daddy Day Care, while Daddy Day Camp sees the chaos ramp up in the great outdoors. These back-to-back comedies are brimming with laughable parenting mishaps, heartwarming moments, and plenty of holiday cheer. Back-to-back fun airs on Wednesday, December 11th, at 3:15 pm and 4:50 pm.
Relive the Joy Only on GOtv
Whether you’re looking to laugh, reminisce, or simply escape into a world of fun, GOtv’s festive lineup of throwbacks is your ticket to holiday bliss. Don’t miss the chance to make new memories with these classic gems.
Subscribe now to unlock a world of exciting entertainment! Take advantage of the GOtv Supa Plus Golden Window and pay just N13,900 instead of N15,700. Upgrade, subscribe, or reconnect via the MyGOtv app or dial *288#. For on-the-go viewing, don’t forget to download the GOtv Stream App and enjoy your favourite classics anytime, anywhere.
Let the nostalgia flow and the laughter echo this festive season—it’s all happening on GOtv!
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