Category: Music

Barack Obama’s annual favorite music list has become a cultural moment of its own. Every year, the former U.S. president shares songs he enjoyed the most, cutting across genres, generations, and continents.

In 2025, the list once again proved how global modern music has become and Nigeria stood tall once again.

Asake, Burna Boy, and Olamidé all earned spots on Obama’s favorite music list this year, reinforcing Afrobeats’ growing influence on the world’s biggest cultural stages.

Afrobeats’ Strong Presence on a Global Playlist

Obama’s music lists are not charts or awards. They are personal playlists that reflect what he listens to and enjoys. That’s what makes them powerful.

So, when Nigerian artists appear, it signals something deeper than popularity; it shows cultural relevance.

This year’s list included:

• Burna Boy with Tatata (featuring Travis Scott)
• Olamidé, Asake, Seyi Vibez, Daecolm, and Young Jonn on 99

These selections placed Nigerian street pop and Afrofusion side-by-side with global pop, hip-hop, indie, and jazz records.

Burna Boy’s appearance on the list comes as no surprise. Over the years, he has built a reputation as one of Africa’s most consistent global exports.

Tatata, his collaboration with Travis Scott, blends Afrofusion rhythms with international rap energy. Its inclusion reflects how Burna Boy continues to operate comfortably at the intersection of African identity and global appeal.

Perhaps the most significant moment on the list is the inclusion of 99; a song deeply rooted in Nigerian street pop culture.

Led by Olamidé and Asake, alongside Seyi Vibez, Daecolm, and Young Jonn, 99 represents a raw, energetic Lagos sound. It is the kind of song born from the streets, clubs, and everyday experiences of Nigerian youth.

Seeing it land on a playlist curated by a former U.S. president speaks volumes.

Olamidé’s role as a culture driver and Asake’s rise as one of Afrobeats’ most exciting modern stars come together on this track.

Barack Obama’s favorite music lists have always served as a snapshot of the year’s cultural mood. In 2025, that snapshot clearly includes Nigeria.

For Asake, Burna Boy, and Olamidé, making the list is not just a personal win; it’s another moment of validation for Nigerian music as a global force.

As Detty December 2025 reaches full momentum across Nigeria, Abuja is preparing for one of its biggest music moments of the year. British-Nigerian star Skepta has landed in the capital ahead of his first-ever live performance in Abuja, where he will headline the Capital Machine block party alongside Nigerian rap heavyweight Odumodublvck.

The event, scheduled for December 18, 2025, is already generating massive attention online, with fans describing it as one of the most important UK–Nigeria hip-hop crossovers of the year.

Skepta, born Joseph Junior Adenuga to Nigerian parents, is one of the most influential figures in UK grime. Known globally for songs like Shutdown and That’s Not Me, he has built a career that blends music, fashion, and cultural leadership.

In 2025, he was named GQ Man of the Year, further cementing his relevance beyond music. His appearance in Abuja during Detty December carries symbolic weight, representing both a return to his roots and a growing global interest in Nigerian hip-hop culture beyond Lagos.

Videos shared online, including clips posted by Odumodublvck, show Skepta arriving in Abuja in high spirits, fueling anticipation for the night’s performance.

Capital Machine Block Party: What to Expect

The Capital Machine block party, presented by Anti World Gangstas, kicks off at 7 PM and is expected to run late into the night. More than a regular concert, the event is positioned as a cultural statement, merging UK grime with Nigeria’s evolving rap sound.

Odumodublvck, an Abuja native best known for Declan Rice, has long championed the city’s rap scene. In past interviews and posts, he predicted that global artists like Skepta would eventually tap into Abuja’s sound and energy. This collaboration brings that vision to life.

This collaboration goes beyond Detty December hype. It highlights Abuja’s rising importance in Nigeria’s music and entertainment landscape and shows how Nigerian rap is gaining global attention on its own terms.

Lagos witnessed a historic moment as Nigerian music superstars Davido and Wizkid both performed at the GTCO End-of-Year Party. The event, held in Lagos, became one of the biggest highlights of the 2025 Detty December celebrations and drew massive attention from fans, media, and social platforms.

The GTCO End-of-Year Party is an annual corporate event organized by Guaranty Trust Holding Company (GTCO) to celebrate the end of the year with customers, partners, and staff. Over the years, the event has grown into a major entertainment gathering, often featuring top Nigerian artists. However, this year’s edition stood out due to the presence of both Davido and Wizkid on the same stage.

The event took place in Lagos and attracted a large audience made up of music lovers, influencers, business leaders, and celebrities. Excitement was already high before the performances began, but it reached a new level when Wizkid and Davido both appeared.

Wizkid delivered a powerful performance, thrilling fans with some of his biggest hits. The crowd sang along as he performed with confidence and energy. His appearance officially signaled the start of Detty December, a period known for concerts, parties, and entertainment across Lagos.

Later in the night, Davido also took the stage and gave an equally energetic performance. Known for his strong stage presence, Davido performed several of his popular songs, keeping the audience fully engaged. Fans responded with loud cheers and excitement throughout his set.

What made the GTCO End-of-Year Party special was the fact that Davido and Wizkid both performed at the same event. The two artists are often seen as rivals by fans, even though both have contributed greatly to the global growth of Afrobeats. Seeing them perform at the same corporate event surprised many people and quickly became a trending topic online.

Videos from the event spread rapidly on social media platforms, with fans praising GTCO for bringing both stars together. Many described the moment as historic and a positive sign for the Nigerian music industry.

Nigerian Afrobeat sensation Omah Lay is getting ready for the release of his sophomore studio album, Clarity of Mind. Following his critically acclaimed debut Boy Alone, Omah Lay has continued to establish himself as one of Africa’s most compelling musical talents, blending Afrobeat, R&B, and soul influences.

Release Date Updates

Initially, the album was rumored to drop on May 16, 2025, but Omah Lay’s management later clarified that the date had not been officially confirmed. According to the latest press releases from Keyqaad and Warner Records, fans can now expect Clarity of Mind to arrive in early 2026.

This delay has only heightened anticipation, with fans eagerly awaiting updates on the full tracklist, collaborations, and production details.

Singles and Early Previews

Omah Lay has already released the single “Waist”, which serves as a preview of the album’s Afro-fusion style and introspective themes. Earlier tracks like “Moving” have also set the stage for what promises to be a project exploring growth, purpose, and self-reflection.

Music critics and fans alike are praising the single for its smooth production, catchy rhythms, and lyrical depth, further increasing excitement around the full album release.

The title Clarity of Mind suggests a more personal and introspective body of work, with Omah Lay diving deeper into themes of emotional growth, identity, and life experiences. This approach mirrors his earlier work, but promises an evolution in both sound and storytelling.

While the official tracklist is yet to be revealed, industry insiders anticipate collaborations with both Nigerian and international artists, making this already one of the most awaited Afrobeat releases of 2026.

Omah Lay’s Clarity of Mind is shaping up to be a milestone in his career, promising introspective lyrics, infectious Afrobeat rhythms, and global appeal. Fans should stay tuned for official announcements from the artist and his label regarding the exact release date and additional singles ahead of the full album launch and trust Streamdorm to keep you updated.

Streamdorm Music Updates

Rhythm Unplugged 2025 is officially set, and this year’s edition is shaping up to be one of the most anticipated entertainment events of the festive season. The concert, powered by Coca-Cola and organised by Flytime Promotions, will take place on December 21, 2025, at the Eko Convention Center in Lagos, Nigeria.

The show returns under the theme “From Nigeria to the World,” and the lineup reflects that ambition with a blend of top Afrobeats stars, street-pop sensations, and an international headliner creating a global appeal.

Rema and Central Cee Lead the 2025 Lineup

Afrobeats superstar Rema has been announced as the main headliner, backed by UK rapper Central Cee, making this one of the strongest cross continental pairings Rhythm Unplugged has hosted in recent years.

The full lineup also includes:

• BNXN
• Shallipopi
• Odumodublvck
• Smada
• Shoday
• ZerryDL
• Zaylevelten
• Mavo
• Famous Pluto
• Molly
• Fola
• BLNDE
• Chella

This mix puts both established chart-toppers and Gen-Z rising stars on the same stage.

For nearly two decades, Rhythm Unplugged has dominated Nigeria’s December concert culture.

Event Details: Date, Venue, and Tickets

• Date: December 21, 2025
• Venue: Eko Convention Center, Victoria Island, Lagos
• Tickets: Available exclusively on Cene, Cene+, and therhythmunplugged.com

Rhythm Unplugged 2025 is set to be one of the biggest music events in Africa this year. With Rema and Central Cee leading an impressive list of performers, Lagos is gearing up for an explosive night of music, culture, and entertainment.

Afrobeat musician and outspoken Pan-African thinker Seun Anikulapo Kuti has never been one to shy away from difficult conversations. In an exclusive interview with Streamdorm, the artist opened up about African identity, political consciousness, the problems with today’s social media culture, and the mission behind his new long-form podcast with Bro Diallo.

Seun Kuti delivered his trademark clarity and unfiltered honesty reminding listeners that for him, art and activism remain inseparable.

“We Are Africans Because Africa Is Born in Us”

Asked to define what it truly means to be African, Seun Kuti referenced the words of Kwame Nkrumah, the Former President of Ghana:

“We are not Africans because we are born in Africa. We are Africans because Africa is born inside of us.”

Seun Kuti emphasized that African identity goes deeper than skin colour or nationality. For him, being African is rooted in consciousness, history, and the values one chooses to embody.

“Anybody can be born in Africa or have black skin,” he said. “But it is the amount of Africa inside you that makes you African.”

Nigeria at 65: “We Are Far From Where We Need to Be”

The conversation soon shifted to Nigeria’s challengespolitically, socially, and economically. Seun Kuti made it clear that the nation’s struggles are not accidental:

“We’re a bit removed from where we need to go. We need to organize ourselves to remove power from those currently with it and replace them with people who will build the Africa we talk about.”

He added that questions about governance and Nigeria’s long-standing structural failures should be directed at those in political office, not just artists.

Social Media and the Decline of Intellectual Discourse

In today’s digital age, serious political conversations are often overshadowed by trends, hashtags, and viral noise. For Seun Kuti, this reinforces why long form, intentional platforms like his podcast Bird’s Eye View are necessary.

He clarified that the goal wasn’t to “reclaim”intellectual space, but to create and elevate it:

“There are intellectual African podcasts out there. They’re just not in the mainstream conversation because most platforms capturing the attention of Africans don’t lead them to such messages.”

Why He Created the New Podcast with Bro Diallo

The partnership between Seun Kuti, Bro Diallo, and Okay Africa is no coincidence. According to SeunKuti, the podcast serves one core mission:

“To raise the consciousness of the people.”

He believes African liberation is impossible without a shift in consciousness and that grounded, scientific, radical analysis is missing from many Pan-African spaces today.

The podcast aims to fill that gap.

“There’s too much emotional rhetoric, financial hustle rhetoric, or ‘give me your money, I’ll show you liberation.’ We want grounded radical analysis no clownish ideas.”

He also revealed that Bro Diallo is his political mentor, making their collaboration natural and necessary.

Music vs. Podcasting: Which Is More Powerful?

Seun’s music has always been a weapon of resistance, but does podcasting offer a stronger platform?

He believes both serve unique purposes:

“Every medium has its own power. Through art, there is meaning. Through analysis, there is information. I’m trying to do the same thing with both lead people toward liberation.”

In essence, music inspires, and podcasting informs.

What’s Next for Seun Kuti?

With the release of the critically praised EP “Big Bird and the Viper”, fans are eager to know what’s coming next.

Seun kept it simple: “Expect more great music and analysis on my podcast as long as the ancestors allow us.”

This interview reinforces what we already know: Seun Kuti is one of the most uncompromising voices in modern African thought.

Whether through music or podcasting, Seun Kuti continues to push for a more informed, conscious, and liberated African society one conversation at a time.

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TikTok has released its official list of the Global Top 20 Songs of 2025, and it’s a brilliant mix of blasts from the past, global sounds, and brand new bangers. This list isn’t just about music; it’s a combination of the trends, memes, and moments that defined the year.
This year’s chart proves that music truly knows no borders! A massive shout out goes to Nigerian Afrobeats star Chella, whose hit “My Darling” earned a well deserved spot at #19, proving the global power and energy of African music on the platform.

Here is the definitive, easy to read list of the biggest viral hits that powered TikTok in 2025.

Top 10 Global TikTok Songs: The Year’s Biggest Viral Hits

These ten tracks were used in millions of videos, setting the tone for the entire platform. From dance challenges to viral videos, these songs were everywhere!

1. “Pretty Little Baby” – Connie Francis

Pure, innocent joy. This 1962 classic was the most used song globally, proving TikTok has a soft spot for wholesome throwbacks.

2. “Hold My Hand” – Jess Glynne

Main character energy. An uplifting anthem for positive outlooks, travel goals, and feel-good moments.

3. “Rock That Body” – Black Eyed Peas

This 2010 party starter was the soundtrack for intense dance moves and workout edits in 2025.

4. “Azul” – J Balvin

Smooth and stylish. The Colombian superstar’s reggaeton hit kept its cool, dominating edits and fashion transitions.

5. “Dame Un Grrr” – Fantomel x Kate Linn

Eccentric energy. This Euro-dance track was a massive hit for quirky, fast-paced comedy skits and transformation videos.

6. “APT.” – ROSÉ & Bruno Mars

Global pop excellence. A highly anticipated collaboration that immediately became the go to for fan edits and dance covers.

7. “Te Quería Ver” – Alemán & Neton Vega

Unexpected fusion. This viral Mexican rap and Regional Mexican blend proves how quickly unique sounds can catch fire.

8. “Stecu Stecu” – Faris Adam

Infectious dance beat. This high energy track became a staple for global dance challenges and catchy, upbeat content.

9. “Anxiety” – Doechii

Real and raw emotion. This song was used for honest, personal storytelling and videos addressing mental health followed by Will Smith old dance video clip aiding the trend.

10. “Sailor Song” – Gigi Perez

Dreamy and aesthetic. The perfect sound for soft visuals, scenic montages, and introspective content.

The Next 10: Completing the Global TikTok Top 20

The back half of the list is just as important, highlighting the incredible diversity of music TikTok pushes into the mainstream.

11. “Shake It To The Max (FLY) (Remix)” – MOLIY, Silent Addy, Skillibeng, Shenseea

12. “Ocean eyes” – Billie Eilish

13. “No One Noticed” – The Marías

14. “back to friends” – sombr

15. “Sparks” – Coldplay

16. “That’s So True” – Gracie Abrams

17. “Let Down” – Radiohead

18. “Suave” – El Alfa

19. “My Darling” – Chella

20. “We Hug Now” – Sydney Rose

Did your favorite viral sound make the ranking? Let us know which one you think deserved the top spot!

Don’t forget to subscribe to our weekly newsletter for more updates on Entertainment and Culture.

The Golden Globe Awards are often a thrilling forerunner to the Oscars, particularly in the music categories, where a single song can capture the heart of a film and resonate globally. For the 2026 Golden Globes, the Best Original Song – Motion Picture category consist of a formidable lineup, with “I Lied To You” from Ryan Coogler’s ambitious supernatural drama ‘SINNERS’ positioned as a powerful contender.

FULL LIST: Golden Globe Nominations 2026 Revealed

FULL LIST: Golden Globe Nominations 2026 Revealed

“I Lied To You”

“I Lied To You” stands out for its deep roots and raw emotional power. Performed within ‘SINNERS’ by the compelling Miles Caton, the song is far more than a simple soundtrack inclusion; it’s the very soul of the film. Set in the 1932 Mississippi Delta, ‘SINNERS’ talks about the origins of the blues, and Caton’s character, Sammie Moore, an aspiring musician, channels the era’s struggles and aspirations into every note.

The track’s brilliance is owed to the collaboration between two musical giants: Grammy-winning R&B legend Raphael Saadiq and Oscar-winning composer Ludwig Göransson. Their combined talents have forged a blues track that feels both historically authentic and universally resonant, giving voice to the film’s powerful narrative. The nomination for “I Lied To You” not only highlights the exceptional songwriting but also Coogler’s visionary use of music as a central narrative force in a film that is a major contender across multiple Golden Globe categories, including Best Motion Picture – Drama.

Other Nominations in the Category

While “I Lied To You” offers a unique, blues-infused entry, it faces competition from an array of globally recognized artists and cinematic moments:

“No Time To Die” from No Time To Die

This haunting and atmospheric track, performed by global superstar Billie Eilish, delivered a classic Bond theme with a modern, melancholic twist. Co-written with her brother Finneas O’Connell, it became an instant classic, capturing the espionage thriller’s gravitas and emotional depth.

 “Stand Up” from Harriet

A truly inspiring and uplifting anthem, Cynthia Erivo’s “Stand Up” captures the indomitable spirit of Harriet Tubman. Co-written by Erivo herself with Joshuah Brian Campbell, the song is a gospel-infused powerhouse that not only showcases Erivo’s incredible vocal range but also serves as a rallying cry for freedom and justice. Its message is potent, making it a strong and moving nominee.

 “Speak Now” from One Night in Miami…

This deeply moving and thought-provoking song, performed by Leslie Odom Jr., is central to the film’s exploration of civil rights, friendship, and responsibility. Co-written by Odom Jr. and Sam Ashworth, “Speak Now” is a soulful and contemplative piece that reflects the profound conversations and societal pressures faced by the film’s iconic characters. Its lyrical depth and Odom Jr.’s compelling performance make it a standout.

 “Io sì (Seen)” from The Life Ahead

A tender and evocative ballad performed by Italian vocal sensation Laura Pausini, “Io sì (Seen)” (also known as “Seen”) speaks to themes of recognition, compassion, and human connection. Co-written by Pausini, Niccolò Agliardi, and the legendary Diane Warren (a Golden Globe and Oscar perennial), the song beautifully captures the film’s heartwarming story and Pausini’s powerful, expressive delivery ensures its emotional impact.

The Race to the Golden Globe

This year’s Best Original Song category shows the diverse ways music can elevate storytelling. From the raw blues of “I Lied To You” to the global pop appeal of Billie Eilish, the inspiring power of Cynthia Erivo, the soulful reflection of Leslie Odom Jr., and the emotional resonance of Laura Pausini, each song brings a unique strength to the competition.

“I Lied To You” has the advantage of being deeply embedded in the narrative of a critically celebrated film, creating an organic and unforgettable cinematic moment. Its authenticity and the powerful performances surrounding it could very well sway voters. As the countdown to the Golden Globes continues, the anticipation builds for which of these extraordinary songs will ultimately be recognized as the year’s finest.

Fast-rising Afrobeats star Spyro is preparing to drop his highly anticipated debut album, The Men, The Boys & Your Guy, on Friday, September 26, 2025. The artist who is known for his viral hit “Who Is Your Guy?”

The concept separates Nigerian music into three categories: “The Men” (industry veterans), “The Boys” (the new wave), and “Your Guy” (Spyro’s personal voice). With this unique structure, Spyro aims to bridge generations in Afrobeats while cementing his place as a central figure in the genre’s evolution.

Spyro The Men, The Boys & Your Guy Tracklist

The Men

1. Para ft. M.I Abaga
2. Can’t Lie ft. Faze
3. Wait ft. D’Banj
4. If To Say ft. 2Baba
5. Irreplaceable ft. Styl Plus
6. Salary Work ft. Sound Sultan
7. Shutdown ft. Phyno

The Boys

1. Sweet ft. Shoday
2. No More ft. Bayanni
3. Baba Mimo ft. Suave
4. Beautiful ft. Oxlade
5. Que Sera Sera ft. Soundz & Jeriq
6. Aye Kan ft. Ceeboi

Your Guy

1. Shope
2. Away ft. Pitch6lack
3. Stand By You
4. Dance
5. Pray
6. Serving a Living God

The Album Concept

The Men

This section pays homage to the legends of Nigerian music; M.I Abaga, 2Baba, Styl Plus, D’Banj, Phyno, Sound Sultan, and Faze. Spyro uses these collaborations to ground himself in the rich history of Afrobeats.

The Boys

Here, Spyro shines a spotlight on the next generation with features from Oxlade, Bayanni, Shoday, Soundz, Jeriq, Ceeboi, and Suave. These rising voices represent the future of Nigerian pop culture, and Spyro positions himself as their connector.

Your Guy

This is the heart of the album. Tracks without industry giants, where Spyro speaks directly to his audience. With songs like “Pray” and “Serving a Living God”, Spyro reveals his personal journey, spiritual side, and musical identity.

Album Outlook

Cross-Generational Appeal: By combining old-school legends with young Afrobeats stars, Spyro is targeting both long-time fans and Gen Z audiences.
Artistic Ambition: Splitting an album into three distinct parts is risky, but it allows Spyro to showcase versatility while blending nostalgia, new school vibes, and personal storytelling.
Potential Impact: If executed well, The Men, The Boys & Your Guy could establish Spyro as more than a one-hit wonder, solidifying him as a major player in Afrobeats.

Spyro’s debut project, The Men, The Boys & Your Guy, is not just another Afrobeats release, it’s a bold statement about legacy, the present, and the future of Nigerian music. By bringing together icons, rising stars, and his own voice, Spyro has created one of the most anticipated albums of 2025.

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All eyes are on Sarz as he gears up for the release of his new album Protect Sarz At All Costs, dropping tomorrow September 26, 2025. Widely regarded as one of Afrobeats’ most innovative producers, Sarz has taken his creativity a step further with a rollout strategy that feels more like cinema than traditional album promotion.

The project is expected to be a landmark moment for both his career and the global Afrobeats scene, blending Nigerian rhythms with international collaborations.

Tracklist and Sound Direction

The tracklist reveals Sarz’s ambition to craft a global soundtrack rather than just another Afrobeats project. Here are the confirmed features:

• Grateful ft. WurlD & Ndlovu Youth Choir
• Happiness ft. Asake & Gunna
• Getting Paid ft. Asake, Wizkid & Skillibeng
• Mademoiselle ft. Zeina, Shallipopi, Theodora & Odumodublvck
• BMF ft Fireboy DML, Byron Messia
• Body ft Joeboy
• In A Mustang ft Qing Madi
• Nice n Slow ft Wurld
• Loved Me Then ft Lojay
• African Barbie ft Teni, Libianca
• Up ft Victony
• Billions ft Lojay

A Cinematic Rollout: How Sarz Reinvented Album Promotion

Where most artists drop teasers and trailers, Sarz has opted for short films and skits to build anticipation. His rollout strategy is playful, self-aware, and layered with storytelling, making the campaign as engaging as the music itself.

Mini-Movies and Skits

• A mock press conference where journalists demand answers about the album release date and features.
• A group therapy scene with fans venting frustration about the wait.
• A cinema parody featuring comedian Layi Wasabi, where a film villain demands Sarz’s album as the soundtrack.

I can’t even go to the movies in peace… pic.twitter.com/xY6l4d6qKx

— I am… (@beatsbysarz) September 10, 2025

These aren’t just promos, they’re part of the artistic universe Sarz is creating. By using humor, drama, and meta-commentary on the music industry itself, he has made his marketing content worth watching on its own.

Sarz has also been strategic about timing. By gradually unveiling features, artwork, and cinematic clips, he’s kept fans guessing and ensured that each reveal makes waves online.

Why This Rollout Matters for Afrobeats

Sarz is blurring the line between art and marketing. His rollout strategy elevates the album into a cultural event, positioning Afrobeats not just as music, but as storytelling with global appeal.

This approach mirrors how major international artists use cinematic universes to market albums, but it’s rare to see it executed at this scale in Nigeria. If Protect Sarz At All Costs delivers musically, it could set a new benchmark for how Afrobeats albums are launched in the digital era.

With Protect Sarz At All Costs, Sarz is not only giving fans new music but also reshaping how an album can be experienced.

As the album drops tomorrow, the real test will be whether the music matches the hype. But one thing is certain: Sarz has proven that creativity in promotion can be just as powerful as creativity in sound.