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Celine Dion recently covered for Vogue France, putting on a white miniskirt with an unbuttoned oversized shirt and using her hand to cover her chest.

In the post caption on Instagram, Dion shared her body positivity amid her ongoing battle with Stiff Person Syndrome. “I’m honored to be doing a photo shoot for Vogue France. I’m very proud that, at 55, I’ve been asked to reveal my beauty. But what is beauty? Beauty is you, it’s me, it’s what’s inside, it’s our dreams, it’s today. Today, I’m a woman who is feeling strong and positive about the future. One day at a time.“

The musical icon shared her story and battle with the life-altering ailment of stiff person syndrome and her plans for the future in the May 2024 issue of Vogue France as she prepares for the premier of her documentary ‘I Am: Celine Dion’  on Amazon Prime Video, to be released on June 25.

Celine Dion talked about how she blamed herself when she was diagnosed and her search for a “why.” “Life doesn’t give you answers. You simply have to live it! I have this disease for some unknown reason,” she said.

“I have two choices. Either I train like an athlete and I work super hard or I disconnect and it’s over, I stay at home, I listen to my songs, I stand in front of my mirror and I sing to myself. I chose to work with all my body and all my soul, from head to toe with a medical team. I want to be my best self. My goal is to see the Eiffel Tower again!”

She explained how her family, children and fans motivated her to find treatment for her ailment: “People who suffer from (stiff person syndrome) may not have the chance or the means to have good doctors or good treatments. I have these means, I have this gift. Plus, I have this strength in me. I know nothing is going to stop me.”

On Her Present Mindset:

“My dream is to live in the present. One day at a time. I am truly very lucky. And I am honored to be doing a photo shoot for Vogue France because although I had better health and beauty at 30, I didn’t get asked to do one then. I am very proud that at 55, I am being asked to reveal my beauty. But what is beauty? Beauty is you, it’s me, it’s what’s on the inside, it’s our dreams, it’s today. Beauty is what surrounds us, it is there. There are people that see it, and there are people that observe it. Today, I am a woman, who feels strong and positive about the future. One day at a time.”

When asked if she’ll tour again:

“I can’t answer that… Because for four years I’ve been saying to myself that I’m not going back, that I’m ready, that I’m not ready… As things stand, I can’t stand here and say to you: “Yes, in four months.” I don’t know… My body will tell me. On the other hand, I don’t just want to wait. It’s morally hard to live from day to day. It’s hard, I’m working very hard and tomorrow will be even harder. Tomorrow is another day. But there’s one thing that will never stop, and that’s the will. It’s the passion. It’s the dream. It’s the determination.”

During the 2024 Grammy Awards, Celine Dion made a surprise appearance presenting the Album of the Year award to Taylor Swift (Midnights); “Thank you all,” she said to the applauding crowd, showing no signs of weakness. “I love you right back. When I say that I’m happy to be here, I really mean it from my heart.”

Stiff-person syndrome (SPS) is defined as “a rare, progressive neurological disorder” that can cause muscle spasms. The condition can be so debilitating that some patients develop a hunched posture, eventually preventing them from walking or moving independently at all. While treatment can manage the symptoms, there is currently no known cure.

In March, Dion spoke out on social media for International Stiff Person Syndrome Awareness Day. “Today the world recognizes International SPS Awareness Day. As many of you know, in the fall of 2022, I was diagnosed with Stiff Person Syndrome (SPS). Trying to overcome this autoimmune disorder has been one of the hardest experiences of my life, but I remain determined to one day get back onto the stage and to live as normal of a life as possible. I am deeply grateful for the love and support from my kids, family, team and all of you!”

Internet personality and crossdresser, Okuneye Idris Olanrewaju, popularly known as Bobrisky, has filed a notice of appeal against his recent conviction for Naira abuse.

The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) brought four charges of naira abuse and mutilation against Bobrisky. He then pleaded guilty before Justice A.O. Awogboro of the Federal High Court, Lagos. On April 12th, 2024, Justice Awogboro sentenced Idris to six months of imprisonment without the option of a fine.

The crossdresser has appealed to the court, seeking to replace the maximum sentence imposed on him with a penalty of a ₦50,000 fine for each count.

In the appeal, filed by his lawyer Bimbo Kusanu before the court, Bobrisky argues that the “earned trial judge erred in law and in facts by his imposition of the maximum sentence of months imprisonment terms against the appellant without option of fine, contrary to the provisions of Section 416(2) d of the Administration of Criminal Justice Act of 2015 (“ADCJA”) that prescribed the mandatory guidelines on the trial court on the imposition of sentencing after criminal conviction of a first-time offender as the appellant.”.

Bobrisky is seeking an “order setting aside the 6-month maximum imprisonment sentence imposed on the appellant and, in its place, imposition of a fine in the sum of ₦50,000 (Fify Thousand Naira) on each of the counts against the appellant.”.

Meta is opening up its Meta Quest VR Headset Operating System to Third Party Developers.

Starting today, 22nd of April, 2024, Meta is opening its VR Operating System to developers. The name of the operating system is called Meta Horizon OS, it will be similar to operating system like Google Play Store and Apple App Store but for virtual reality developers.

The new open model operating system to virtual reality developers and makers like Asus, Lenovo and even an Xbox.

The Horizon OS is currently supported on all Meta Quest line for both VR and AR. Third party developers can now create virtual apps and games and upload to the Quest Store. Meta is planning to launch it’s Horizon Store to third party developers.

According to Meta CEO and Founder, Mark Zuckerberg, Meta is working with companies like Asus, Lenovo, and Microsoft to kick start a new age for open model VR experience.

According to Meta, Asus is currently working on “performance based” VR gaming headset under its Republic of Gamers brand, Lenovo is working on Meta Horizon OS-compatible VR devices. The company hinted Lenovo focus will be on “productivity, learning, and entertainment.” As for Xbox it’s partnering with Meta to make a limited edition, “inspired by Xbox” product.

Speculations from tech enthusiasts predict the new devices may use Meta Chips, since its announce of entering the chip maker business.

According to Meta its Horizon OS would be easy for publishers to publish apps and App Lab developers will receive a dedicated Horizon Store section, similar to other apps stores.

There will also be a new framework for building mixed reality apps. Meta predicts hardware or software makers will create dedicated Virtual Reality devices and applications which will create and enabling use case experience.

We believe a more open ecosystem is the best way to bring the power of mixed reality to as many people as possible. With more devices, this new ecosystem will offer more choice to consumers and businesses around the world. Developers will have a much larger range of hardware that can run their apps, and more device makers will expand their market to a wider range of users, much like we’ve seen with PCs and smartphones.

The question left to ask is, how will Meta competitors respond?

In the wondrous world of gamers, certain titles rise above the rest, captivating the hearts and minds of players worldwide. Let’s delve into the list of the most played games in 2024.

Apex Legends

Apex Legends continues to rule the battle royale world with its fast-paced gameplay and character abilities. Developed by Respawn Entertainment, this free-to-play title has amassed a dedicated player base since its launch.

Storylines and Immersive Narratives

While Apex Legends focuses primarily on multiplayer gameplay, it features lore-rich storytelling through in-game events and character interactions. The evolving narrative adds depth to the game’s universe, keeping players engaged beyond the battlefield.

Fortnite

Fortnite remains a powerhouse in the gaming industry, attracting players of all ages with its colorful aesthetic and ever-evolving gameplay. Developed by Epic Games, this battle royale phenomenon continues to reinvent itself with regular updates and content drops.

Storylines and Immersive Narratives

While Fortnite’s primary focus is on multiplayer mayhem, it incorporates narrative elements through in-game events and seasonal updates. These story-driven experiences add depth to the game’s universe, enticing players to uncover its secrets and mysteries.

League of Legends

The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild, developed by Nintendo, stands as a masterpiece in open-world gaming. Launched alongside the Nintendo Switch in 2017, it continues to captivate players with its vast landscapes, intricate puzzles, and immersive storytelling.

Storylines and Immersive Narrative

Although LoL is primarily focused on competitive gameplay, it features an extensive lore universe filled with rich narratives and complex characters. Through in-game events, cinematic trailers, and written lore, Riot Games continues to expand the game’s lore, captivating players with its deep storytelling.

Call of Duty: Warzone

Call of Duty: Warzone, developed by Infinity Ward and Raven Software, has become a juggernaut in the battle royale genre since its release. It combines the fast-paced action of the Call of Duty franchise with the expansive map and tactical gameplay of battle royale.

Storylines and Immersive Narratives

While Warzone primarily focuses on multiplayer gameplay, it intertwines with the overarching narrative of the Call of Duty universe. In-game events and updates introduce new story elements, keeping players engaged and invested in the ongoing saga.

Minecraft

Minecraft, developed by Mojang Studios, continues to captivate players with its limitless creativity and exploration. Despite being released over a decade ago, the game remains incredibly popular, thanks to its sandbox gameplay and player-driven content.

Storylines and Immersive Narratives

Unlike traditional narrative-driven games, Minecraft relies on player-driven storytelling, with each player crafting their own unique adventures and experiences. From epic quests to elaborate builds, the game encourages creativity and imagination, allowing players to shape their own narratives.

The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild

The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild, developed by Nintendo, stands as a masterpiece in open-world gaming. Launched alongside the Nintendo Switch in 2017, it continues to captivate players with its vast landscapes, intricate puzzles, and immersive storytelling.

Storylines and Immersive Narratives

At its core, Breath of the Wild tells the story of Link’s quest to defeat the evil Calamity Ganon and save Princess Zelda. Through its rich narrative and memorable characters, the game immerses players in a captivating tale of courage, discovery, and redemption.

Grand Theft Auto V

Grand Theft Auto V (GTA V), developed by Rockstar Games, continues to captivate players with its sprawling open-world environment, engaging storytelling, and dynamic multiplayer mode, Grand Theft Auto Online.

Storylines and Immersive Narratives

At its core, GTA V tells the story of three criminals—Michael, Franklin, and Trevor—as they navigate the seedy underworld of Los Santos. With its branching narrative and complex characters, the game immerses players in a world of crime, betrayal, and redemption.

Among Us

Among Us, developed by InnerSloth, took the gaming world by storm with its addictive gameplay and social interaction. Despite its simple graphics, the game’s emphasis on deception and deduction has made it a favorite among players of all ages.

Storylines and Immersive Narratives

While Among Us lacks a traditional narrative, its emergent storytelling comes from the interactions between players as they accuse, defend, and deceive each other. From tense standoffs to unexpected betrayals, the game’s narrative unfolds dynamically with each round, keeping players on the edge of their seats.

Pokémon Brilliant Diamond and Shining Pearl

Pokémon Brilliant Diamond and Shining Pearl, remakes of the classic Nintendo DS games, mark the return to the Sinnoh region with updated graphics and features. Developed by ILCA Inc. and published by The Pokémon Company, these titles appeal to both nostalgic fans and newcomers alike.

Storylines and Immersive Narratives

At its heart, Brilliant Diamond and Shining Pearl tell the timeless tale of a young Trainer’s quest to become the Pokémon Champion and thwart the plans of the villainous Team Galactic. With its engaging storyline, memorable characters, and epic battles, the games immerse players in the rich world of Pokémon.

Chlöe Bailey one of the sister musical duo ‘Chloe x Halle‘ has announced her sophomore album, ‘Trouble In Paradise.’

She announced this during her performance at Weekend One of Coachella 2024, on April 19th.

3 years ago, Chlöe released her debut solo song, Have Mercy and a year ago she released her debut solo album, In Piece. One year later, she’s ready to bless her fans with a second solo album.

“I’m so happy up here guys.

So, I have an album coming out soon. I can’t tell yoy guys the date just yet. But…I can tell you the title of the album is called ‘Trouble in Paradise.’ Because I am trouble in paradise.”

On her journey to a desert performance, the singer paused to capture some snapshots for Instagram. She donned a bra top adorned with transparent crystals, crafted to mimic the appearance of multi-carat diamonds. She wore a low waist black cargo trousers and a crystal belt, exposing her tummy.

She wore matching earrings and styled her hair into a ponytail captioning the picture “trouble in paradise 🌊”

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Dimimu, an inspiring and audacious gospel artist, reached out to me to discuss his new single, which at the time was few hours away from publishing. Why would I say no? I have heard his discography, and his last song, Ogo Re Gbe Mi Sare ft. BOA is just a masterpiece for a gospel artist.

“I’ve written ‘Áwí má yẹ hùn’ on my notepad for more than two years,” he said in an exclusive interview with me. The song written in less that 6 hours was inspired by “by deep thoughts of how mysterious that personality, which is the personality of the one true and only supreme God who never goes back on His words.“

Áwí má yẹ hùn’ is a Yoruba word which means someone who doesn’t go back on their words and that’s Dimimu prayer to his listeners, “I hope listeners will understand that Our Father will never go back on his words therefore His promises still stands.”

For Christians, Faith is powerful and Dimimu wants everyone listening to have faith and remember that God never fails.

What’s next? Blessings and Glory—a worship medley Dimimu exclusively told us.

Faith isn’t separate from his creativity, in fact it is “intertwined” with it. Dimimu advice to other upcoming gospel artists is for them not to chase what’s trending but what’s in their hearts and make “God their source of inspiration.”

To enjoy Dimimu latest track, click this link.

On Thursday, April 18, 2024, Davido announced the news for his new record label, Nine+ Records.

Nine+ is a new record label formed by Davido and Steve Stoute‘s UnitedMasters. The new record label will be a 2.0 version of Davido Music Worldwide Records (DWM) as of April 17.

Steve Stoute and Davido connected last year at the SelectCon event by UnitedMasters, and from the event they have been talking business. Steve Stoute visited Lagos, Nigeria, where they solidified their plan and partnership, leading to Nine+.

The name Nine+ is coined from Davido’s lyrics, “OBO elemi nine plus,” from his song Stand Strong, which means “OBO has more than nine lives,” according to Davido’s PR team member, David Adeyemi.

Last December, UnitedMasters partnered with the NBA to forge a new deal that allowed their artists to showcase their work on NBA Africa’s social media channels showcasing their artists to African audiences via technology. The initiative is based at the NBA Africa office in Lagos, Nigeria. This partnership marks another step for United Masters in Africa, following their collaboration with Sarz Academy in 2023.

According to his manager and lawyer Bobo F. Ajuda, “Davido will collaborate with Steve Stoute to identify and develop talent. Their respective teams from Nine+ Records and UnitedMasters will work together to support these artists. This includes everything from artist development and branding to securing market opportunities.”

Davido continues to uphold his responsibilities at Nine+ same as DMW but including a collaborative approach in his capacity as a music executive. This collaboration will play a role in identifying and fostering talent, providing them opportunities for strategic brand alliances and synchronization.”

“I am thrilled to announce the launch of a new joint venture between my label, Nine Plus, and UnitedMasters, founded by my good friend, Steve Stoute. This collaboration marks a pivotal moment in our journey, as we aim to empower artists globally by leveraging UnitedMasters’ revolutionary music distribution platform and Nine Plus’ innovative vision and eye for talent. Together, we are set to redefine the music landscape both African and global, providing artists with unprecedented tools and opportunities to amplify their voices and craft. Excited to witness the creativity and growth ahead. This partnership signifies a significant step in music history, encompassing both Africa and the world,” Davido, Founder/CEO of Nine Plus.

This announcement comes after Davido’s sold-out performance at Madison Square Garden in New York City, where he made history by bringing Afrobeats to one of the world’s most iconic venues. A moment after his performance he visited Tunde Onakoya who was attempting to break the world record for the longest chess marathon.

UnitedMasters has been making waves with recent company announcements, including partnerships with SymphonyOS and Groover.

Davido expressed his enthusiasm in a statement, saying, “I am thrilled to announce the launch of a new joint venture between my label, Nine Plus, and UnitedMasters, founded by my good friend, Steve Stoute This collaboration marks a pivotal moment in our journey, as we aim to empower artists globally by leveraging UnitedMasters’ revolutionary music distribution platform and Nine Plus’ innovative vision and eye for talent. Together, we are set to redefine the music landscape both African and global, providing artists with unprecedented tools and opportunities to amplify their voices and craft. Excited to witness the creativity and growth ahead. This partnership signifies a significant step in music history, encompassing both Africa and the world.”

Davido’s first move is to move DMW Record artist to Nine+.

All dmw artist would be moved to Nine + records …. Clearing the air !

— Davido (@davido) April 19, 2024

Nigerian Chess Master Tunde Onakoya has officially set the mark for a new chess marathon of 58 hours around 2:30 WAT on Saturday, April 20, 2024.

On Thursday, the champion went on a mission to break the world record for the longest chess marathon. Norwegian players Hallvard Haug Flatebø and Sjur Ferkingstad were the previous owners, holding it for 56 hours and 9 minutes.

According to The Gift of Chess on X, who posted at 12:34 am on Saturday, “56 Hours Straight, The Record Is SET TO BREAK.”

Tunde confirmed the new record via his X account:

“We have done it.

“We’re pushing to 60 hours guys. We’re not stopping yet. Let’s keep going.

“We have a fundraising goal to meet for the education of African children around the world. This is our why—the reason we are doing this.

“Let’s demonstrate to the world the incredible power of love. Together, we can make this happen.

The challenge was held at the New York City Times Square to raise funds and awareness for providing educational opportunities to underprivileged children across Africa. He is the convener of Chess in the Slums, an NGO to equip children with the power of chess.

Tunde Onakoya was joined by the US National Chess Champion 23 hours into the game.

“This record attempt requires a team of two players. Tunde Onakoya (NG) will be facing off against Shawn Martinez (US) for the challenge. Both players hold the title of National Masters.

“Shawn Martinez, a US National Master, renowned New York City chess legend, and chess coach, poses as a formidable adversary. Both Tunde Onakoya and Shawn Martinez will hold the record title.”

“This record is for the longest time to continuously play chess. This record is to be mentioned in hours, minutes, and seconds. This record is to be attempted by a team of two players,” said Chess in the Slums.

Notable figures like President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, Lagos State Governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu, Singer Davido, and Adekunle Gold have all supported Tunde.

I will play on for the dreams of millions of children

Afrobeats giant Olamide and Afropop artist CKay are back together with a new collab.

“Bolabmh is the producer behind the song, which is believed to draw influences from Salsa. This single serves as a testament to CKay’s exceptional talent in songwriting.

According to CKay “Olamide and I complimented each other well on the record. I think it’s beautiful.” This is their second song since ‘Trumpet, released back in 2023’.

Wahala’ is available on all streaming platforms; listen here

In response to claims made by TikTok influencer Dabarbie, Mayorkun sues the TikTok influence with Mayorkun slams TikTok influencer Nickie Dabarbie for a ₦1 billion lawsuit for defamatory statements.

Precious Kingsley, popularly known as Nickie Dabarbie, accused musicians Skiibii and Mayorkun of attempted murder for money rituals.

In a series of posts shared via her Instagram account, Dabarbie claimed both singers use multiple girls for rituals. In addition to her claims, she said the artists gave her dog poop to eat. On her Instagram live she also accused the musicians of sending soldiers after her.

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In response to these massive claims, Mayorkun is suing the influencer.