Showbiz
Spotify Wrapped 2023: Burna Boy Leads as Most Streamed African Artist in SSA
By Modupe Gbadeyanka
A new report released by Spotify has revealed that Burna Boy is the most streamed African artist in Sub-Saharan Africa (SSA) on the platform in 2023, though he is behind Drake, a Canadian rapper, who emerged as the most streamed in the region under review.
In the Spotify Wrapped 2023 unveiled on Thursday, it was disclosed that Burna Boy, who has won the coveted Grammy, maintained the position for the second year in a row.
Spotify Wrapped 2023 is an annual data-led review of how people listen to music and podcasts on the popular platform.
Asake, Davido and Omah Lay all make an appearance in the top ten, showing Nigeria’s dominance in the music scene across the continent.
Ayra Starr narrowly missed the top ten most streamed artists list, landing at number 11 and being the top streamed female artist in SSA.
When it comes to tracks that the whole region can agree on, Ruger’s Asiwaju was on top, followed by Ayra Starr’s Rush.
A host of other Nigerian tracks also made the list, including Asake’s Lonely At The Top which is the most streamed track in Nigeria this year. Tyler ICU is the sole South African with Mnike, featuring DJ Maphorisa, Nandipha808, Ceeka RSA & Tyron Dee, and Libianca’s People is still making waves, almost a year after its release, landing it in the eighth spot.
Davido’s album Timeless was released earlier this year, after much anticipation from the fans, so it follows that it is the most streamed album in SSA, and two tracks from the album, Feel and Unavailable, featuring Musa Keys are in the top ten most streamed tracks in SSA.
To say that Asake is living the dream would be an understatement, after all, the artist was relatively unknown a few short years ago, and now two of his albums, Work of Art and Mr Money With The Vibe are in the top streamed list in the whole of Sub-Saharan Africa.
The top exported artist in SSA is Rema, thanks to the popularity of Calm Down, featuring Selena Gomez, which is also the most exported track from SSA.
Furthermore, for the first time ever, an African artist-led track not only gained 1 billion streams on Spotify, it is also the eighth most streamed track globally. No small feat considering just a few years ago, African tracks were mostly confined to the continent.
All the African artists whose music was felt not just on the continent, but also on the global stages, are featured on Spotify’s Gone Abroad Presents…Global African Hits of 2023.
Even though Ayra Starr leads in the top streamed female artists list, the only other African female artist in the top ten is Tems, with the rest of the list being occupied by American artists.
To further showcase local listening trends from around the world, Spotify this year has Wrapped Mapped, showing which songs have soundtracked throughout the year since January 1, all across the globe.
Eligible users can access their personalized 2023 Wrapped experience exclusively in the Spotify mobile app (iOS and Android) and also this year, via web view on mobile or Desktop by heading to Spotify.com/Wrapped.
Additionally, Spotify has also launched its Wrapped creator experience for podcasters and artists. With access to their own individualized Wrapped microsite experience, creators can dive into all how their fans listened this year.
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Showbiz
Zyler Unveils AI-Powered Virtual Christmas Jumper
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.
Showbiz
Movie Classics You’ll Love to Watch This Holiday Season on GOtv
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!
Showbiz
Holiday Preview: Festive Season Programmes to Watch Out for on GOtv
Imagine it’s Christmas. The aroma of jollof rice wafts through the air, kids run around in matching outfits, and the TV is tuned to GOtv Channel 3, M-Net Movies 4. But this isn’t just any Christmas morning—this one’s about to go wild. A mischievous cat wreaking havoc, Matilda bending spoons with her mind, and Babe, the pig, proving why kindness trumps all.
This year, GOtv is turning your festive lineup into a whirlwind of unforgettable stories that will leave you laughing, crying, and cheering—all in one sitting. Here’s a guide to some of the festive season movies that will make your holiday season not just merry but downright legendary.
Dr. Seuss’ The Cat in the Hat
“Chaos has never been this entertaining!”
What happens when a family’s holiday preparations meet a six-foot-tall cat with a penchant for mischief? Absolute pandemonium! From balancing teetering stacks of furniture to unleashing his Thing 1 and Thing 2 accomplices, the Cat pushes the boundaries of holiday cheer. Did you know this whimsical character has sparked debates about his “anarchic” influence for decades?
This Christmas, let the Cat in the Hat remind you that sometimes, a little chaos is needed to bring families together. Catch this iconic film on Thursday, December 19th, at 12:15 pm.
Matilda
“Who says kids can’t save Christmas?”
Matilda Wormwood may be small, but her courage and wit are larger than life. Remember the scene where she finally takes a stand against Miss Trunchbull? That’s not just a victory—it’s a moment that defines resilience. This heartwarming classic proves that even the tiniest among us can create the biggest miracles.
Gather the family and let Matilda inspire a holiday spirit filled with courage, imagination, and just a touch of telekinesis. This family favourite airs on Wednesday, December 25th, at 3:00 pm.
Babe & Babe: Pig in the City
“From farmyard hero to city superstar!”
What could be more festive than the tale of a pig who defies the odds? Babe’s journey to prove his worth is a story that echoes the true spirit of the holidays: kindness, determination, and belief in oneself. In Babe: Pig in the City, the stakes are raised as our lovable hero ventures into an urban jungle.
These tales are more than entertaining—they’re a gentle reminder to embrace every family member, even the most unlikely ones. Catch Babe on Monday, December 23rd, at 8:35 am, and don’t miss the sequel, Babe: Pig in the City, airing the next day, Tuesday, December 24th, at 9:00 am.
Cloudy with a Chance of Meatballs
“Let it rain… cheeseburgers?”
What if your holiday feast literally fell from the sky? This imaginative adventure takes festive indulgence to a whole new level. Whether it’s giant pancakes or spaghetti tornadoes, Cloudy with a Chance of Meatballs brings a colourful twist to the festive spirit. But beyond the fun, it’s a heartfelt story about family, innovation, and the courage to dream big. Join the adventure on Sunday, December 22nd, at 2:25 pm
Problem Child & Problem Child 2
“When holiday chaos meets Junior…”
Imagine this: one kid, two parents, and endless mayhem. Problem Child introduces us to Junior, the walking definition of “holiday surprises.” In the sequel, the laughs double as Junior’s antics escalate to new heights. It’s hilarious, nostalgic, and a perfect reminder that no family gathering is complete without a little drama. Watch the chaos unfold on Tuesday, December 24th, at 1:55 pm, followed by even more antics in Problem Child 2 at 3:25
Your Holiday Starts Here
This Christmas, GOtv isn’t just delivering entertainment; it’s creating moments you’ll treasure forever. From whimsical chaos to heartwarming tales, M-Net Movies 4 on Channel 3 has it all.
So grab a plate of Christmas jollof, huddle up with your loved ones, and let the holiday magic unfold on screen. And don’t forget to tune in to GOtv Channel 3 to catch these festive classics.
Don’t miss the chance to make your holiday season unforgettable. Subscribe, upgrade, or reconnect now through the MyGOtv App or dial *288#. This Christmas is not just about the presents—it’s about the stories that bring us together.
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