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Babalwa M Named Spotify EQUAL Africa’s Artiste for August

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Babalwa M

Spotify has announced sensational Amapiano vocalist Babalwa M as the EQUAL Artist for August this year.

Babalwa M’s musical prowess, her contributions to the South African music industry, and her advocacy for women’s voices in the region make her a well-deserved recipient of this recognition from Spotify.

Babalwa M, known for her vibrant performances, compelling lyrics, and soulful voice, has rapidly risen to prominence.

Her music blends Afro-pop and Amapiano, exploring themes of empowerment, love, and resilience. Her inspirational sounds resonate deeply with listeners.

Spotify’s Head of Music for Sub-Saharan Africa, Phiona Okumu, said: “We are elated to spotlight Babalwa M as our EQUAL Artist for August. Babalwa’s incredible talent and her dedication to empowering women through her music and advocacy make her an inspiring role model and an ideal selection for the EQUAL program this month. Her music not only entertains but also uplifts and unites, reflecting the very essence of what our EQUAL program stands for.”

A multi-award-winning musician and songwriter, Babalwa M draws inspiration from personal experiences and societal issues. Her versatile style has led to collaborations with international artists, allowing her to blend her sound with a global audience. This has significantly amplified her influence and expanded her reach.

“For centuries, women have been fighting for their rights and creating spaces to thrive, often surpassing the standards set by men. I am the Babalwa M my supporters know and love today because of those trailblazers who fought for our place in this world, allowing me to be a successful, career-driven woman. I embrace the idea of owning my space without concern for who might be ahead of me”, Babalwa M proudly said.

Spotify’s EQUAL program is dedicated to amplifying the voices of women artists globally, ensuring they receive the recognition and support they deserve.

By spotlighting female artists like Babalwa M, Spotify aims to foster gender equity in the music industry and celebrate the diverse talents of women around Africa.

“My mission is to hold the door open for other women, allowing for an environment where we no longer view it as men versus. women but as an open industry that lets everyone live and work together in fairness and collaboration”, Babalwa M concluded.

We sat down with Babalwa M to learn more about her and her music:

1. What is the one surprising thing your fans might not know about you?

What my supporters don’t know about me is that I’m a huge Kwaito fanatic, however, I often feel that being an Amapiano artist—or an artist within any specific genre—comes with the challenge of being boxed in. People tend to assume we only focus on that one genre. However, the music I listen to constantly inspires me to explore and create new sounds. I love diving into what other artists have to offer. I’m inspired by industry greats like Mdu and Lebo Mathosa, who have made massive contributions to the South African music scene. But my influences don’t stop there—I also draw inspiration from artists like Doja Cat and Billie Eilish. Their melodic styles deeply resonate with me and play a significant role in shaping my musical style.

2. When did you realise that making music was in your destiny and what is your WHY for pursuing this craft?

My entry into the music scene was very unorthodox because I was just trying my luck and having fun with another interest of mine – singing. My partner wasn’t even aware that I could sing and we had been together for quite some time. However I am grateful for COVID-19 with all its complications and how it forced us to find other ways of staying entertained during trying times, I was extremely lucky because my partner was a producer that I could just have fun and experiment with my music interests with. Music became more evident that it was my calling and the best choice I had made when I took a chance in actually sharing my music with the public and it was received so well. It caught me by great surprise but certainly affirmed that I was headed in the right direction, especially for someone who approached this whole music thing as a mere experiment at the time. Since then, music has been my get up and go, & I’ve found great fulfilment in sharing my stories and my voice through my art and it’s additionally become a way of life. Looking back now, my only regret is not having started sooner. I couldn’t fathom a life without Umculo.

3. Which African songs or artists did you grow up listening to?

Lebo Mathosa, M’du and the like.

 4. To someone who has never heard your music, how would you describe the sound, tone, and style?

My sound is melodic. I take pride in crafting music that’s both emotive and relatable. Knowing that I’ve created something that resonates with my supporters and new listeners alike fuels my passion. If it’s smooth-sounding and gives off feel-good vibes from the start of the song, it’s a Babalwa M ensemble.

5. Any advice for someone dreading following their dreams?

Don’t hesitate! I dreaded my start, and now my only regret is not having begun sooner. There’s no right or wrong way to pursue your dreams and aspirations—what matters is taking that plunge, as it could be the best thing you ever do. There’s nothing more fulfilling than turning your passion into your career.

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Court Freezes N1.2bn Copyright Levy Funds in Record Labels, MCSN Rift

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Go to court

By Adedapo Adesanya

The Federal High Court in Lagos has ordered the freezing of N1.2 billion in copyright levy funds payable to the Musical Copyright Society of Nigeria (MCSN), pending the determination of a substantive application before the court.

Justice Ambrose Lewis-Allagoa granted an interim Mareva injunction restraining the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) and no fewer than 20 commercial banks from disbursing or releasing the disputed funds.

The order followed an ex parte application filed on February 5, 2026, in Suit No. FHC/L/CS/207/2026 by the Record Label Proprietors’ Initiative and 11 leading record labels and music companies.

The plaintiffs include Mavin Records Ltd, Davido Music Worldwide Ltd, Premier Music Publishing Limited, Chocolate City Music Limited, Hypertek Digital Limited, Digital Music Commerce & Exchange Limited (DMCE), Beggars Group Media Limited, Universal Music Group, Sony Music Entertainment Africa, Warner Music South Africa (Pty) Ltd and Gamma Media Middle East DMCC.

The second to 12th plaintiffs instituted the action through their lawful attorney, Record Label Proprietors’ Initiative.

In the motion ex parte, filed and argued by their counsel, Oragwu Nnamdi, the applicants sought an order restraining the CBN from disbursing, releasing, transferring or otherwise paying out any copyright levy funds attributable to sound recordings and intended for MCSN, pending the hearing and determination of a Motion on Notice.

They further prayed the court to restrain MCSN, its agents, servants or privies from receiving, accessing, withdrawing, transferring, dissipating or otherwise dealing with the levy funds, whether paid directly by the CBN or routed through commercial banks.

The plaintiffs also requested that the apex bank and the affected financial institutions be directed to preserve the funds and file affidavits of compliance within three days of service of the order, disclosing the sums standing to the credit of MCSN in respect of the levy payments.

Ruling on the application, Justice Lewis-Allagoa restrained the CBN, its officers, agents or any person acting under its authority from disbursing any copyright levy funds attributable to sound recordings and payable to MCSN, pending the determination of the Motion on Notice.

The court equally barred MCSN from receiving, accessing, utilising, withdrawing, transferring, converting, dissipating or otherwise dealing with the funds, whether already received or yet to be disbursed.

In addition, the judge directed the CBN and the listed banks to preserve the disputed sums and file affidavits of compliance within three days of being served with the order, disclosing the amounts standing to MCSN’s credit in respect of levy payments earmarked for disbursement or already disbursed.

The court further ordered that any copyright levy funds already received by MCSN and attributable to sound recordings owned by the 2nd to 12th plaintiffs — after they had validly opted out of the collective management and administration of their rights — must be preserved intact.

MCSN was also directed to render an account of such funds and refrain from further dealings with them pending the hearing of the Motion on Notice.

Dr Chinedu Chukwuji of Lekki, Lagos, deposed to the supporting affidavit.

After hearing submissions from counsel to the plaintiffs, the court granted the orders as prayed and adjourned the matter to March 12, 2026, for hearing of the Motion on Notice.

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Simple Tool to Transfer Music Without Losing Tracks

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Music Transfer Tools

Transferring music from one device to another can often feel like a daunting task. For online business owners, eCommerce entrepreneurs, and digital professionals, streamlined processes are essential, and losing precious tracks during a transfer can be frustrating. Fortunately, tools like FreeYourMusic make moving music collections seamless and reliable, ensuring that every track and playlist remains intact.

This guide explores how to use these tools effectively, providing step-by-step tips to transfer music between devices or restore data. By following best practices, users can confidently manage their music libraries and enjoy uninterrupted access to their favorite tracks wherever they go.

Understanding Music Transfer Tools

Music transfer tools are specialized software applications designed to help the movement of audio files between different platforms or devices. They simplify the process by providing a user-friendly interface that allows users to quickly upload, download, and manage music files without needing extensive technical knowledge. For online business owners and agencies, using the right tool can save significant time and ensure that tracks maintain their original quality throughout the transfer, an essential factor when every second counts in a fast-paced digital environment.

These tools typically support multiple file formats and can handle various music libraries, making them versatile choices for users. They hide the complex processes behind a simple interface, allowing anyone to transfer music effortlessly.

Why Use a Music Transfer Tool?

Using a music transfer tool comes with several advantages that cater specifically to those who prioritize efficiency and reliability. Here are a few reasons:

  1. Time Efficiency: Transferring music manually can be a time-consuming process, often leading to frustration. Tools automate much of this work, allowing users to focus on their core activities, such as managing their businesses or campaigns.
  2. Loss Prevention: The fear of losing essential tracks during transfers is a common concern. A dedicated tool minimizes this risk by ensuring that files are copied accurately without corruption or loss.
  3. Compatibility and Flexibility: Many tools offer support for various file formats and can work across different operating systems. This compatibility ensures that users can transfer music regardless of their technology environment, whether it’s Windows, macOS, or mobile devices.
  4. Improved Organization: Some tools come with features that allow users to categorize and manage their music libraries effectively. This can prove invaluable for marketers who rely on specific soundtracks or audio content for promotional activities.

Key Features of an Effective Music Transfer Tool

An effective music transfer tool will offer various key features aimed at enhancing user experience. When choosing a tool, look for the following characteristics:

  1. User-Friendly Interface: A well-designed, intuitive interface that guides the user is crucial. Ideally, anyone should be able to navigate it without hours of training.
  2. Fast Transfer Speeds: Time is money, especially for busy professionals. A good tool will ensure swift transfers without compromising audio quality.
  3. Multi-Platform Support: Whether the user wants to transfer music from a computer to a smartphone, or between cloud services, multi-platform capabilities ensure versatility.
  4. File Integrity Checks: A reliable music transfer tool performs checks to confirm that files have been transferred without corruption, providing peace of mind.
  5. Backup Options: The inclusion of backup features is invaluable. Users should be able to create duplicates of their files easily before beginning the transfer to protect against unforeseen circumstances.

Step-by-Step Guide to Using the Tool

To effectively use a music transfer tool, follow these straightforward steps:

  1. Download and Install the Tool: Start by downloading the software from a trusted source. Follow the installation prompts to set it up on your device.
  2. Connect Your Devices: Use USB cables or a wireless connection to link the devices you will transfer music from and to. Ensure that both devices are recognized by the software.
  3. Select the Music Files: Navigate the software interface to find the music library. Select the tracks you wish to transfer.
  4. Initiate the Transfer: Click the transfer button and monitor the progress. Most tools will display the time remaining and file integrity checks during this phase.
  5. Verify Your Files: Once the transfer is complete, navigate to the destination device and play the tracks to ensure they’ve been transferred correctly.

Common Issues and Troubleshooting

Even though their advantages, users may encounter common issues with music transfer tools. Here are a few problems and their resolutions:

  1. Device Recognition Problems: If the device is not recognized, ensure that drivers are updated and that the device is properly connected.
  2. Transfer Failures: If transfers fail midway, check for stable connections and sufficient storage space on the destination device. Restarting the tool and devices can also resolve this issue.
  3. Corrupted Files: If files appear corrupted post-transfer, verify that the music files are in supported formats and consider reattempting the transfer.

Best Practices for Music Transfer

To enhance the experience and ensure successful music transfers, consider implementing these best practices:

  1. Regular Backups: Consistently back up your music library to separate drives or cloud storage to prevent data loss.
  2. Update Software Regularly: Keeping your transfer tool updated ensures compatibility with the latest devices and file formats, alongside crucial performance enhancements.
  3. Check System Requirements: Make sure the device you’re transferring music to meets the software’s system requirements to avoid any hiccups during the transfer process.

Conclusion

A simple tool to transfer music without losing tracks can save valuable time and eliminate headaches for online business owners and entrepreneurs. By understanding the importance of music transfer tools, selecting one with key features, and following best practices, users can confidently manage their music collections. Embracing these solutions not just streamlines the process but also ensures that creativity and efficiency coexist, eventually allowing professionals to focus on driving their businesses forward.

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Who’s Playing Who? Heartbeat Episodes 5 & 6 Bring All the Twists

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Heartbeat Watch This Weekend on DStv

Episode 4 ended with Latifah holding the biggest power move of the night. After winning the Heartbeat Game and securing the Love Nest key, she surprised everyone by choosing Ken again instead of exploring someone new. The Love Dip Game followed, flipping the house upside down with unexpected pairings: Igwe with Shekinah, Kena with Toria, Alvin with Chidera, and Hilda with Henri. Kena and Chidera were separated despite being emotionally locked in, though Kena assured everyone it wouldn’t affect their bond. Some singles chose to sleep alone, seeking peace over drama, while tensions and emotions ran high as housemates navigated jealousy, confusion, and budding connections.

Moving into Episode 5, the Love Pad welcomed new singles, instantly shaking things up. Kena continued to steal hearts, but Chidera made it clear that whatever was brewing, she wasn’t stepping aside quietly. Henri decided to focus on Latifah, only for the tension between her and Ken to resurface, proving their push-and-pull was far from over. The biggest revelation came from Ceeoni, who casually dropped that she and Henri were exes,  an unexpected twist that sent shockwaves through the house.

The games heated up with the Love Nest key challenge, which Bosah won and chose Hilda, leaving everyone else free to sleep anywhere and explore new connections. Meanwhile, old flames and new attractions collided: Kena gave Chidera roses to apologise for earlier tension, Jane went after Kenna, and Alvin and Toria explored a connection only to break it off the same day. Igwe and Shekinah continued their confusing dance, giving everyone something to question. Letters were exchanged in the Love Hearts, revealing unspoken feelings, jealousy, and some serious surprises. By the end of Episode 5, the house was buzzing with drama, unresolved emotions, and new sparks flying everywhere.

Episode 6 picked up with even more intensity. Alvin and Toria addressed their fallout, confirming their chapter was closed right before it started, while Igwe called out Latifah for seeming unsure about Ken, and Shekinah confronted Igwe about his letters to multiple women. Ken found himself pulled in three directions: Latifah, Ceeoni, and Hilda, and chaos followed when he lied about setting up a dinner date for Ceeoni, claiming production orchestrated it. Hilda uncovered the truth and immediately told Latifah, leaving her furious and done with Ken. Meanwhile, Ken tried pivoting toward Toria but was shut down, Ceeoni admitted feeling like a victim, and the house was left in complete emotional turmoil.

By the end of these two episodes, old bonds were shaken, new attractions were forming, and the Love Pad was more unpredictable than ever. In this season, no connection is safe, jealousy runs deep, and anyone can switch lanes at a moment’s notice.

Catch Heartbeat every Sunday at 9 pm on Africa Magic Showcase, GOtv Channel 8. To upgrade, subscribe or reconnect, download the MyGOtv App or dial *288#. For catch-up and on-the-go viewing, stream anytime on the GOtv Stream App.

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