Category: Entertainment

Nigerian global stars Burna Boy and Tems have earned nominations at the 2026 Music Week Awards, in a time where Afrobeats’ growing influence not just on the charts, but within the global business of music is ever increasing.

Both artists were recognized in the Music & Brand Partnerships category, a segment that celebrates standout collaborations between musicians and major brands.

Burna Boy received a nomination for his partnership with Virgin Media O2, tied to a Priority gig at London’s O2 Forum Kentish Town. The collaboration blended live music experiences with brand-driven audience engagement, positioning the Grammy-winning artist at the center of a campaign designed to reward and connect with loyal customers.

Tems, on the other hand, was nominated for her work with Hennessy on the “Made For More” campaign, a creative partnership that spotlighted ambition, cultural identity, and artistic excellence. The campaign aligned with Tems’ global image as one of Africa’s most influential contemporary voices, reinforcing her brand power beyond streaming numbers and touring milestones.

The nominations were announced as part of the 2026 edition of the Music Week Awards, an annual event organized by Music Week to recognize excellence across the UK and international music business. Unlike fan-voted award shows, the Music Week Awards focus on industry achievements, from marketing and live events to label strategy and brand innovation.

For Burna Boy, this marks another milestone in a career that has consistently expanded Afrobeats’ global footprint, particularly in the UK market. For Tems, the nomination underscores her continued crossover appeal and growing influence in the luxury and lifestyle branding space.

The winners of the 2026 Music Week Awards are expected to be announced at the official ceremony scheduled to take place on Thursday, May 7, 2026 in London, United Kingdom. The event will be held at JW Marriott Grosvenor House and will bring together key figures from the global music business to celebrate excellence in industry achievement

For the first time ever, two full Qur’an recitation albums are currently charting on the Nigeria Apple Music Top 40 Albums chart, marking a rare moment where spiritual audio sits alongside mainstream music releases.

According to the latest Nigeria rankings on Apple Music, the following albums are charting:

At #22 — The Holy Quran by Saad El Ghamidi

At #33 — The Holy Quran (Complete) by Abdul Rahman Al-Sudais

Both projects are complete audio recitations of the Qur’an in Arabic and have been available on streaming platforms for years. However, this is the first recorded instance of two Qur’an recitation albums simultaneously appearing within Nigeria’s Top 40 Albums chart; a space typically dominated by Afrobeats, hip-hop, gospel, and international pop releases.

Saad El Ghamidi and Abdul Rahman Al-Sudais are among the most recognized Qur’an reciters globally. Their recordings are widely streamed during religious seasons such as Ramadan and other spiritually significant periods, often seeing noticeable spikes in listenership.

The development highlights how streaming platforms are increasingly reflecting not just entertainment trends, but also faith-based and devotional listening habits among Nigerian users.

While Apple Music’s charts update regularly and positions may shift, the current appearance of both albums in the Top 40 signals strong demand for religious audio content on mainstream music platforms especially in this Ramadan season. 

If sustained, this could mark a notable moment in Nigeria’s digital listening culture;  where devotion is charting alongside pop.

American actor Eric Dane, widely known for his role as Dr. Mark “McSteamy” Sloan on Grey’s Anatomy, has died at the age of 53 following a battle with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS).

According to multiple international reports, Dane passed away on February 19, 2026, nearly a year after publicly revealing his ALS diagnosis. His family confirmed that he died surrounded by loved ones.

Dane announced in April 2025 that he had been diagnosed with ALS; a progressive neurodegenerative disease that attacks motor neurons in the brain and spinal cord. The condition gradually weakens muscles and affects voluntary movements, including walking, speaking, swallowing, and breathing. There is currently no known cure.

Best known for his breakout role on Grey’s Anatomy, Dane joined the long-running ABC medical drama in 2006 and quickly became a fan favourite for his charismatic portrayal of the confident plastic surgeon, earning the nickname “McSteamy.” He remained on the series until 2012 and reprised the role in later appearances.

Beyond Grey’s Anatomy, Dane built a diverse career in both television and film. He starred as Cal Jacobs in the HBO drama Euphoria, appearing alongside a new generation of actors and introducing himself to younger audiences. His film credits include roles in X‑Men: The Last Stand and Marley & Me.

Following news of his death, tributes poured in from colleagues and fans across the entertainment industry, with many remembering him as a talented performer and devoted family man.

ALS, sometimes referred to as Lou Gehrig’s disease, is a fatal condition that progressively destroys nerve cells responsible for muscle movement. While treatments can help manage symptoms, the disease continues to worsen over time.

Dane is survived by his wife and children.

His passing marks the loss of a television icon whose impact on medical drama and contemporary television spanned nearly two decades.

May his soul rest in peace. 

Veteran Nigerian folk musician Beautiful Nubia (Segun Akinlolu) has publicly accused prominent gospel artists Yinka Ayefele and BBO of lifting the melody of his 2001 classic track “Seven Lifes” without credit.

In a post on X on February 19, 2026, the Roots Renaissance Band founder wrote:

“There was Yinka Ayefele with ‘My Faith in God (Igbagbo Ireti)’ in 2012 and now someone called BBO with ‘Amin’ this year. Both stole their melodies from our original song ‘Seven Lifes’. When will Nigerians (especially the so-called gospel musicians) learn to respect copyright?”

The post quickly went viral, drawing hundreds of likes, reposts, and dozens of comments in a matter of hours.

“Seven Lifes”, released on the album What a Feeling! in the early 2000s, is one of Beautiful Nubia’s most enduring works. The song blends Yoruba lyrics with rich instrumentation and philosophical undertones, celebrating African resilience, survival, and spiritual strength. Its folk-infused style has influenced generations of Nigerian musicians.

The current controversy focuses on two gospel tracks. Yinka Ayefele’s “Igbagbo Ireti” (My Faith in God, 2012) has long drawn attention for melodic similarities to “Seven Lifes,” with many describing it as a gospel reinterpretation of Nubia’s classic. The more recent BBO release, “Amin” (2026), sparked Nubia’s public statement. X users highlighted what they called a “glaring” resemblance, with some joking that they could almost sing Nubia’s lyrics over BBO’s track. Streaming algorithms even queue the two songs together in certain searches, amplifying the perceived connection.

Fans on X have rallied behind Beautiful Nubia, expressing frustration over uncredited borrowing in Nigerian music. Many urged legal action, praising Nubia as a legend whose work should not be disrespected. Others referenced Ayefele’s past controversies, including alleged heavy sampling of late highlife legend Orlando Owoh across an entire album. A minority of commenters argued that the similarities are exaggerated or fall under artistic inspiration, noting that musical ideas are often recycled.

This incident underscores ongoing challenges in Nigeria’s music industry, including weak protection for older compositions, the fine line between homage, interpolation, sampling, and plagiarism; especially in gospel music borrowing folk melodies and social media’s growing role in giving veteran artists a direct platform to call out perceived theft.

Ironically, “Seven Lifes” is now experiencing renewed attention in 2026, thanks to the tracks accused of borrowing from it. Whether this dispute leads to legal action, public apologies, or sparks broader industry reform remains to be seen.

In a heartwarming twist that has fans buzzing worldwide, Paddington Bear; the iconic marmalade-loving bear from children’s books and films, has been announced as a presenter at the 79th EE BAFTA Film Awards. The ceremony, set for Sunday, 22 February 2026 at London’s Royal Festival Hall, celebrates the best in cinema from the past year.

Paddington’s role as a presenter is more than just a cute cameo. It highlights the BAFTAs’ commitment to storytelling that resonates with audiences of all ages. Created by author Michael Bond, Paddington has been a beloved cultural icon for decades, and his appearance this year marks a rare crossover of literary legacy into major awards recognition.

It’s been revealed that Paddington will present the Best Children & Family Film award, a perfect fit for the character whose adventures have captivated generations. His presence adds a playful and nostalgic touch to what is already one of the most star-studded nights in cinema.

Paddington won’t be the only celebrity on stage. The 2026 BAFTAs feature an impressive roster, including Alicia Vikander, Bryan Cranston, Stormzy, Gillian Anderson, Regé‑Jean Page, and international stars like Alia Bhatt. These presenters, alongside Paddington, promise a mix of glamour, entertainment, and memorable moments for viewers worldwide.

The evening will be hosted by versatile actor Alan Cumming, guiding audiences through awards, tributes, and special performances that celebrate the art of filmmaking.

Paddington Bear is a fictional character first introduced in 1958 by British author Michael Bond. Hailing from “darkest Peru”, he travels to London, where he is adopted by the Brown family and quickly becomes famous for his politeness, curiosity, and love of marmalade sandwiches.

Over the decades, Paddington has appeared in more than 20 books, two successful live-action films, and a variety of TV adaptations. Known for his distinctive blue duffle coat, red hat, and gentle humor, he has become a symbol of kindness, curiosity, and the magic of storytelling; making him a perfect ambassador for family films at the BAFTAs.

As fans tune in to watch the ceremony on 22 February, anticipation is already building; Paddington Bear is anticipated to deliver one of the most charming moments in recent BAFTA history.

Spanish-American artist Domingo Zapata is embarking on what is being described as the largest mural ever attempted, a massive artwork spanning approximately 540,000 square feet, the equivalent of nine football fields.

The ambitious project is currently underway in Riyadh, backed by authorities in Saudi Arabia. According to reports, the mural is so vast that it could potentially be visible from space once completed.

Zapata has described the project as his “magna opera” ,his most ambitious artistic undertaking to date. The mural is expected to take between four and six years to complete and involves a team of more than 100 collaborators, including artists, architects, and engineers.

Rather than simply creating a large painting, Zapata says the goal is to produce a cultural landmark, one that reflects themes of humanity, unity, love, and progress. He has even referred to the project as a Middle Eastern interpretation of the Sistine Chapel, emphasizing both its scale and symbolic ambition.

Zapata is no stranger to monumental works. He previously created one of the largest vinyl murals displayed in Times Square, reinforcing his reputation for blending fine art with public spectacle.

However, this Saudi-based project significantly eclipses his previous works in both size and scope. If completed as planned, it would set a new global benchmark for mural art.

The mural also aligns with Saudi Arabia’s broader push to invest in culture, tourism, and large-scale creative initiatives as part of its long-term development strategy. Large public art projects like this often function not only as artistic statements but also as international cultural signals.

The International Federation of the Phonographic Industry (IFPI) has released its 2025 Global Recording Artist Chart, spotlighting the biggest names in music worldwide based on streaming, physical sales, downloads, and overall consumption. The chart, officially released in early 2026, confirms Taylor Swift as the most dominant global artist for the sixth time in her career, solidifying her status at the top of the music industry.

Taylor Swift’s continued dominance, reportedly her fourth consecutive year at #1, is a testament to her unmatched global reach and loyal fanbase. Her performance across albums, singles, and streaming platforms ensured she outpaced both established and rising artists on the global stage.

K-pop group Stray Kids made a significant leap in 2025, earning the #2 spot on the IFPI chart. This marks a historic achievement for the group, highlighting the growing global influence of K-pop outside South Korea. Stray Kids’ dynamic releases, international streaming numbers, and worldwide fan engagement contributed to their record-breaking year.

Other Highlights from the Top 20

• Drake and The Weeknd continue to dominate, taking #3 and #4 respectively.
• Bad Bunny holds strong at #5, maintaining his position as one of Latin music’s most influential global artists.
• Legendary and re-emerging artists like Lady Gaga (#10), Ed Sheeran (#18), SZA (#19), and Justin Bieber (#20) return to the chart, showing the staying power of established acts.
• New entrants include Mrs. Green Apple (#13), a sign of rising international talent making a mark globally.

Top 20 IFPI Global Recording Artists 2025

1. Taylor Swift
2. Stray Kids
3. Drake
4. The Weeknd
5. Bad Bunny
6. Kendrick Lamar
7. Morgan Wallen
8. Sabrina Carpenter
9. Billie Eilish
10. Lady Gaga
11. Ariana Grande
12. Tyler, The Creator
13. Mrs. Green Apple
14. SEVENTEEN
15. Eminem
16. Linkin Park
17. Zach Bryan
18. Ed Sheeran
19. SZA
20. Justin Bieber

The IFPI Global Recording Artist Chart measures total global consumption, including streaming, downloads, and physical album sales. It reflects not just commercial success but also the artists’ global cultural influence.

Taylor Swift’s continued reign and Stray Kids’ meteoric rise demonstrate the blending of Western and K-pop markets, while the mix of veterans and new entrants in the top 20 highlights the diversity of global music consumption today.

For six straight years, Burna Boy has found his way onto one of music’s most competitive charts. Now, the Nigerian global star has officially made history.

The Grammy-winning artist has become the first African musician to have at least one song appear on the Billboard Hot 100 for six consecutive years; spanning from 2021 to 2026. The milestone reinforces not just his dominance, but the sustained global expansion of Afrobeats.

According to chart data published by Billboard, Burna Boy’s streak began in 2021 and has continued every year since, without interruption.

The run started in 2021 with Loved By You. In 2022, Last Last became his biggest solo crossover hit to date, earning massive global streaming numbers and radio rotation in multiple territories.

In 2023, he returned with Sittin’ On Top Of The World and the remix of Talibans II, further strengthening his presence on the chart.

The momentum carried into 2024 with Just Like Me and We Pray, proving that his chart appearances were not accidental spikes but part of a sustained international run.

By 2025, WGFT kept the streak alive, and now in 2026, his new entry Only You officially extends the record to a sixth consecutive year.

While African artists have appeared on the Hot 100 before, maintaining entries across six straight calendar years is a different level of consistency. It signals not just viral success, but long-term global positioning.

Burna Boy’s achievement also reflects a wider shift in the music industry. Afrobeats is no longer treated as a regional sound breaking through occasionally. It is now a recurring presence in mainstream global charts, festivals, and award conversations. However, this particular milestone belongs solely to him.

What makes the feat even more impressive is that the entries span different eras of his sound, from emotionally reflective records to club-ready anthems and international collaborations. The consistency suggests a strategic evolution rather than repetition.

For Nigerian music and African pop culture at large, the moment feels symbolic. A decade ago, charting on the Hot 100 was rare. Today, one artist has turned it into an annual expectation.

With Only You now on the chart in 2026, the question shifts from whether Burna Boy can sustain global visibility to how long this historic streak can continue.

The Kano State Censorship Board has ordered the immediate suspension of all entertainment activities across Kano State, including event centres, DJs, and related nightlife operations, in a move that has sparked conversations within the state’s creative and hospitality sectors.

The directive, which took effect at 10:00 p.m. on Wednesday, February 18, 2026, will remain in place throughout the Ramadan fasting period. According to the board, the decision is aimed at ensuring a calm and morally conducive environment for residents observing the holy month.

In an official statement, the board said the suspension applies to all event centres, commonly referred to as “gala houses,” as well as Disc Jockey services and public entertainment gatherings. Authorities emphasized that the measure is part of efforts to promote order and respect religious sensitivities during the fasting period.

The board added that further communication would be issued regarding the reopening of entertainment venues, particularly ahead of Eid celebrations. Operators have been advised to comply fully with the directive to avoid sanctions.

This is not the first time the censorship authority has taken sweeping action against entertainment activities in the state. In 2025, similar restrictions were introduced as part of broader regulatory enforcement under amended censorship laws, drawing mixed reactions from residents and industry stakeholders.

While supporters argue that such measures reflect Kano’s cultural and religious values, critics have expressed concern over the economic implications for business owners, DJs, event planners, and hospitality workers whose livelihoods depend on social gatherings and nightlife events.

Kano, a predominantly Muslim state in northern Nigeria, has historically implemented regulatory policies during Ramadan to align public activities with the solemnity of the period. However, the scale of the latest suspension; covering all entertainment venues statewide, has renewed debate about the balance between religious observance, economic activity, and creative expression.

As the fasting period begins, attention now turns to how long the restrictions will last and what relief measures, if any, may be considered for affected operators.

Austrian prosecutors have formally charged a 21-year-old man over an alleged terrorism plot targeting concerts by Taylor Swift in Vienna.

The charges stem from an investigation into a planned attack on Swift’s Eras Tour shows scheduled for August 8–10, 2024, at the Ernst-Happel-Stadion. The three concerts were abruptly canceled after authorities uncovered what they described as a credible extremist threat aimed at causing mass casualties.

According to Austrian prosecutors, the suspect identified in local media as Beran A. was arrested in August 2024, just days before the first concert was set to begin. Investigators allege he had declared allegiance to the extremist group Islamic State (IS) and had shared propaganda materials linked to the organization online. Authorities further claim he researched methods of constructing explosives and made attempts to procure illegal weapons abroad.

Prosecutors believe the suspect intended to target large crowds gathered outside and around the stadium, where tens of thousands of fans were expected each night. The alleged plan, officials say, was designed to inflict significant harm.

The case is expected to be heard at the regional court in Wiener Neustadt. If convicted under Austrian anti-terror legislation, the defendant could face up to 20 years in prison.

Austrian authorities have credited international intelligence cooperation with helping to disrupt the plot before it could be carried out. Reports indicate that U.S. intelligence agencies shared key information that assisted in identifying and tracking the suspect ahead of the scheduled performances.

The decision to cancel the Vienna shows was made shortly before the concerts were due to take place. While the move disappointed thousands of fans who had traveled to attend the performances, officials emphasized that public safety remained the top priority.

Despite the cancellations, many fans gathered peacefully in Vienna in the days that followed, holding informal meetups across the city in solidarity and celebration of Swift’s music. The incident has since been cited by security analysts as a reminder of the evolving risks surrounding large-scale global entertainment events.

As the legal proceedings move forward, prosecutors maintain that the swift disruption of the alleged plot shows the importance of coordinated intelligence efforts in preventing potential acts of violence. The accused will now face trial, where he will have the opportunity to respond formally to the charges brought against him.