Author: Stephen Ibrahim

In Nigeria, Saturdays are not just another day on the calendar—they carry a rhythm, a culture, and a vibe that sets them apart. Across the country, Saturdays symbolize celebration, relaxation, and community. Whether it’s the glitz of owambes or the calm of unwinding at home, the day holds a special meaning for Nigerians everywhere.

Owambes

Ask any Nigerian what Saturdays mean, and the answer will likely involve an owambe; mostly popular amongst the Yorubas but regardless of the ethnicity, everyone parties on Saturday. These are the lavish weddings, birthdays, and celebratory gatherings known for their music, fashion, and food. Guests turn out in brightly colored aso-ebi, the DJs spin Afrobeats hits, and the atmosphere is always electric. For many, Saturdays are incomplete without an owambe invitation—or at least scrolling Instagram to see who wore what. Owambes are more than just parties; they are cultural showcases where Nigerian fashion, cuisine, and music shine brightly.

Sporting Saturdays

Another staple of Nigerian Saturdays is football. Whether it’s cheering for local teams in a neighborhood viewing center or streaming English Premier League matches, football binds people together. Saturdays often become mini-festivals of passion, noise, and camaraderie as fans support their favorite clubs. Football on Saturdays is more than a sport, it’s a social ritual that unites people from all walks of life.

Chill Saturdays

Not everyone goes out, of course. For many Nigerians, Saturdays are reserved for catching up on rest after a long work week. It’s a day to recharge—watching movies, doing small chores, or spending quality time with family. Some prefer the calm of an early morning market run, followed by a hearty pot of jollof rice shared with loved ones. This slower pace makes Saturdays a perfect balance between productivity and leisure.

Interestingly, Nigerian Saturdays often mix productivity with fun. From wedding errands to laundry day, people use the weekend to tick things off their list while still finding time to celebrate. This balance is what makes Saturdays unique: productive yet joyful, loud yet restful. It reflects the Nigerian lifestyle where hard work and celebration often go hand-in-hand.

Why Saturdays Feel Special in Nigeria

At its core, Saturdays are about connection. Whether through the energy of owambes, the unity of football, or the intimacy of family moments, Saturdays embody the Nigerian spirit of togetherness. They remind us that life is meant to be lived loudly, joyfully, and in style. Nigerian Saturdays are not just about the activities—they are about the feelings, the memories, and the bonds created along the way.

Discover the top 5 trending topics in Nigeria this week—from AFRIMA 2025 nominations to Johnny Drille & Tiwa Savage’s new collaboration, TikTok culture, and more.

Every week in Nigeria, a few topics dominate conversations, whether on Twitter (X), Instagram, WhatsApp groups, or even the streets. This week has been no different. From entertainment to politics, lifestyle trends, and social buzz, here are the top five trending topics Nigerians can’t stop talking about:

AFRIMA 2025 Nominations

The buzz around the All Africa Music Awards (AFRIMA 2025) is still hot. Fans are celebrating their favorites while arguing about who got snubbed. With heavyweights like Burna Boy, Ayra Starr, and Asake leading nominations, the debates on “who deserves Album of the Year” have flooded social media. AFRIMA remains one of the most talked-about music events in Africa, and Nigerians are proudly backing their stars.

SAMA 2025 and Afrobeats Conversations

Even though the South African Music Awards (SAMA 2025) are not Nigerian, they still caused a stir online. Nigerian fans are comparing South Africa’s music culture with the global dominance of Afrobeats, sparking heated debates about who really owns the African sound right now. The cross-border music rivalry has kept timelines busy all week.

Johnny Drille & Tiwa Savage Collaboration

This unexpected collab had Nigerians buzzing all week. Both artists are known for soulful, emotional music, and their first track together felt refreshing. The reaction online shows how much fans love when artists blend unique sounds. Some are already calling it one of the best Nigerian collaborations of 2025.

TikTok’s Nigerian Wave

From viral skits to dance challenges, Nigerians continue to set global trends on TikTok. This week, the conversation tilted toward how creators outside Nigeria are using Nigerian culture, slang, and music to farm engagement proof of Nigeria’s growing influence on digital content. With TikTok’s algorithm favoring Nigerian-style creativity, it’s clear the world is watching.

The Cost of Living Conversations

Away from music and entertainment, Nigerians have been actively discussing the rising cost of living. Food prices, transportation costs, and fuel hikes sparked countless viral memes and tweets. While the humor softens the blow, the frustration is clear. It’s a reminder that alongside the fun and vibes, Nigerians never shy away from real issues.

From global music awards to cultural influence on TikTok, Nigerians proved once again that they shape conversations beyond borders. Whether it’s through music, lifestyle, or social commentary, these are the trending topics defining

The South African Music Awards 2025 (SAMA31) have officially unveiled their nominations, spotlighting the best in South African music across genres such as amapiano, afro pop, hip hop, jazz, gospel, rock, and traditional music. Scheduled for November 2025, the awards will recognize both established stars and rising voices, while also celebrating African artists through the Rest of Africa Award.

The Rest of Africa Award brings continental powerhouses into the mix, including Wizkid, Tems, Ayra Starr, and Fireboy DML.

These nominations emphasize the diversity and global influence of South African music, while also aligning the SAMAs as a continental benchmark for excellence.

Full List of SAMA 2025 Nominees

Best Adult Contemporary Album

• Just 6 – uKhisimusi – An African Christmas
• Melanie Scholtz – Seven
• Tony Drake – Room For Everyone
• Nue Sam – Nonyezi
• The Morning After – Look At You Now

Best African Adult Contemporary Album

• Zamajobe – UMI
• Thandiswa Mazwai – Sankofa
• Zoe Modiga – Nomthandazo
• Ndu Shezi – Isibusiso Sami
• Mthuthu – Indumiso YabeNguni

Best Afro Pop Album

• Nomfundo Moh – Twenty Four
• Malik – Malik
• Sjava – Isibuko (Deluxe)
• Sjava – Inkanyezi (Live)
• Dalom Kids – Collaborations With Friends

Best Alternative Album

• Yoav & Jabulile Majola – Unyazi
• Zādok – Perspective: Black
• Francis Soal – Hindsight 2020
• Th&o – Emlotheni
• Spoegwolf – Berge

Best Amapiano Album

• Vigro Deep – Your Piano Is Not My Piano
• Kelvin Momo – Sewe
• Kelvin Momo – Ntsako
• Mellow & Sleazy – Midnight in Sunnyside
• Zee Nxumalo – Inja Ye Game

Best Classical/Instrumental Album

• John Lundun – In the Morning
• Chris Vale, Eugene Joubert, Franco Prinsloo, MarlizeHattingh – By Alle Skone Dinge
• Derek Gripper – Ballaké Sissoko & Derek Gripper
• Vox Chamber Choir & Franco Prinsloo – A Season in Paradise
• Orecchiette – Awake for 22 Hours

Best Collaboration

• Kelvin Momo – Waze Wamuhle
• Black Motion – Takala
• Kususa – Ematshwaleni
• Matt Davies – Stay With Me
• Mas Musiq, Lawd Weezy & DJ Maphorisa ft TO Starquality, Chley & Kabza De Small – Amalanga

Best Dance Album

• Black Motion – The Cradle Of Art
• Dlala Thukzin – FINALLY FAMOUS TOO
• MÖRDA – Cr4zy!!..
• Shimza – Dreaming
• Caiiro – Caiiro

Best Engineered Album

• Black Motion – The Cradle Of Art
• Thandiswa Mazwai – Sankofa
• Sjava – Isibuko (Deluxe)
• Keenan Meyer – Reawakening
• Jeremy Loops – Feathers & Stone

Best Gqom Album

• Mr Thela – Tronics Land 3
• DJ Lag – The Rebellion
• Goldmax – Play At Your Own Risk
• DJ Sandiso – NANDE 3.0
• Lelowhatsgood – Next Level

Best Hip Hop Album

• Blxckie – See U Soon Delux
• Tony Dayimane – Red October: Induction
• Loatinover Pounds – Pray 4 Pitori
• Sizwe Alakine – Audio 2D; Dear Darkie
• 25K – Loyal To The Plug: The Life & Times of Don Kilograms

Best Jazz Album

• Nduduzo Makhathini – uNomkhubulwane
• Nick Ford – Terra Solus
• Nomfundo Xaluva – Ndilapha
• Last – Hope Dies Last
• Ncesh Nonxishi – Apho Kungenje

Best Maskandi Album

• Umafikizolo – Ngathi Nguye
• Phuzekhemisi – iPolotiki
• Khuzani – Angidlali Nezingane
• Ntencane – Alingeni
• Imithente – Amathambo Kagogo

Best Produced Album

• Zamajobe – UMI
• Black Motion – The Cradle Of Art
• Thandiswa Mazwai – Sankofa
• Qü – Reprise on 2nd Avenue
• Linda Sikhakhane – iLadi

Best Produced Music Video

• Soa Mattrix – Umbuzo
• MaWhoo & Mthandeni SK – Gucci
• TitoM & Yuppe – Tshwala Bam (Remix)
• Blxckie – South
• Shekhinah ft Moliy – Risk

Best R&B/Soul Album

• Mikhalé Jones – Too Many Promises
• Elaine – Stone Cold Heart
• Filah Lah Lah – On Air
• Clxrity – It’s Clear To See
• The Big Hash – Heartbreak Hotel (Deluxe)

Best Reggae Album

• Dread Lloyd – Mekwei
• Anela Jahmena – The Rise
• Dimahr – Flaws in Frame
• LUWE DA LION – After All
• Botanist – Area Code

Best Rock Album

• Bloumoord – VIR MEKAAR
• MaxX & Love – These Blues Might Get You Too
• Prime Circle – The World We Know
• The Man Motels – Old Wounds
• The Morning After – Look At You Now

Best Traditional Faith Music Album

• Betusile – Uyinqaba Yam (Jehovah Nissi)
• David Tebogo – The Journey (Part 1)
• Malusi Mbokazi – The Full Circle Revival
• Rofhiwa Manyaga – Rofhiwa Dzina
• Ayanda Ntanzi – According to Grace, A One Man Show

Best Traditional Music Album

• Keitumetse Mangate Production – moleele
• MmaAusi – Mmakgodu
• Makhadzi Entertainment – Miracle Child (Deluxe)
• Sabu Jiyana – Kwanomthandazo
• Pleasure Tsa Manyalo – Bakokota (EP)

Beste Kontemporêre Musiek Album

• Pietman Geldenhuys – Vaalsand
• Ampie – Niemandsland
• Spoegwolf – Eindbestemming
• Neil Sandilands – Land & Sand
• Majo – Geraamtes

Remix of the Year

• TitoM – Tshwala Bam
• Woodblock DJs – Skuta Baba
• Jnr SA – Mngani
• Tycoon – Iza Mawala
• Mpho.Wav – Hlala

Rest of Africa Award

• Ayra Starr – The Year I Turned 21
• Bensoul – The Party & After Party
• Wizkid – Morayo
• Tems – Born In The Wild
• Fireboy DML – Adedamola

Best African Indigenous Faith Album

• Wacha Mkhukhu Wachumlilo – Re Kgoeletsa Magodimong
• JTG Gospel Choir – Morena Re Ya Leboga
• House Of Mercy – Busa Jeso
• Barongoa Ba Morena – Ikutana
• Di Bruin Gospel Projects – Nkapese Ka Maatla

Best Contemporary Faith Music Album

• SbuNoah – Heavenly Psalms – Level 2 (Live at Goshen City Church 2023)
• Nontokozo Mkhize – Lindiwe
• Mmangaliso – Living Word
• Jabu Hlongwane – Crosspower Experience 4
• Takie Ndou – The Glory

Cloves (Syzygium aromaticum) are more than just a kitchen spice. Known for their warm aroma and intense flavour, cloves have been used for centuries in traditional medicine across Asia, Africa, and the Middle East. Today, modern research confirms that this tiny spice is packed with nutrients and bioactive compounds that offer impressive health benefits. From boosting digestion to supporting immunity, cloves can play an important role in maintaining overall wellness.

Rich Source of Antioxidants

Cloves are loaded with antioxidants such as polyphenols and eugenol. These compounds fight free radicals in the body, reducing oxidative stress that contributes to aging and chronic diseases like heart disease, diabetes, and cancer. Including cloves in your diet can help protect cells and improve long-term health.

Natural Anti-Inflammatory Properties

Eugenol, the main active compound in cloves, has strong anti-inflammatory effects. Studies show that it may help reduce joint pain, muscle soreness, and swelling, making cloves useful for people dealing with arthritis or other inflammatory conditions.

Supports Healthy Digestion

Traditionally, cloves have been used to relieve indigestion, gas, and bloating. They stimulate digestive enzyme secretion, which helps food break down more efficiently. Drinking clove tea or adding a small amount to meals can improve digestive comfort.

Promotes Oral Health

Clove oil is widely recognized for its role in dental care. It has antibacterial properties that fight harmful oral bacteria, freshen breath, and provide temporary relief from toothaches. Many natural toothpastes and mouthwashes include clove oil for these reasons.

Helps Regulate Blood Sugar

Research suggests that cloves may help improve insulin sensitivity and regulate blood sugar levels. For people managing diabetes, cloves can serve as a natural dietary support when used alongside medical treatment and a healthy lifestyle.

Boosts the Immune System

The antimicrobial and antiviral properties of cloves make them a natural immune booster. Regular consumption can help the body fight infections, colds, and seasonal flu.

Supports Bone Strength

Cloves contain manganese, a trace mineral essential for bone health and metabolism. Consuming cloves regularly, in moderation, may contribute to stronger bones and reduce the risk of osteoporosis.

Provides Respiratory Relief

Cloves act as an expectorant, loosening mucus in the respiratory tract. Clove tea or steam inhalation with clove oil can ease coughing, asthma, and other respiratory issues.

Protects the Liver

Eugenol in cloves has been shown to support liver health by reducing oxidative stress and lowering inflammation. A healthy liver improves metabolism and detoxification processes in the body.

Enhances Skin Health and Healing

Clove oil, when diluted, is often used in skincare for acne and minor wounds. Its antimicrobial properties help prevent infections, while its natural compounds promote healing.

How to Use Cloves Safely

• Culinary Use: Add cloves to stews, teas, baked goods, or spice blends.
• Clove Tea: Steep 2–3 cloves in hot water for a soothing drink.
• Clove Oil: Always dilute before applying to the skin or using for oral care.
• Moderation: Excessive intake can cause irritation, allergic reactions, or liver issues.

Cloves are a small but mighty spice with a wide range of health benefits. Rich in antioxidants, anti-inflammatory compounds, and essential nutrients, they can support digestion, immunity, oral health, and more. By incorporating cloves moderately into your meals or natural remedies, you can harness their healing power while enjoying their bold flavour.

Note

Cloves are powerful and should be consumed with care. Pregnant or breastfeeding women, people with liver conditions, or those taking medications such as blood thinners should consult a healthcare professional before using cloves for medicinal purposes.

The All Africa Music Awards (AFRIMA) 2025 nominations are out, and the competition is fiercer than ever. With 343 nominees across 40 categories, this year’s edition highlights Africa’s biggest icons, rising talents, and diaspora voices shaping global music culture.

AFRIMA 2025 made history with 10,717 entries, the highest in its 12-year existence. After a rigorous 10-day screening by a 13-member international jury, the final nominees list was unveiled, representing all five African regions and the diaspora. The award ceremony will run from November 25 to 30, 2025, in Lagos, Nigeria, culminating in the main event on November 30. Fans will also have their say when public voting opens on September 10 via the official AFRIMA website.

Artists with the Most Nominations

Five Nominations Each

• Burna Boy (Nigeria) – Album of the Year (No Sign of Weakness), Song of the Year, Artiste of the Year
• Davido (Nigeria) – Album of the Year (5ive), Best Collaboration, Song of the Year
• DJ Maphorisa (South Africa) – Key nods in production and collaboration categories
• El Grande Toto (Morocco) – Album of the Year (Salgoat), Best Male Artist North Africa
• Mia Guissé (Senegal)
• Moliy (Ghana) – Leading the female Afropop charge

Four Nominations

• Shallipopi (Nigeria) – Artiste of the Year and Song of the Year for “Laho”
• Amr Diab (Egypt)
• Diamond Platnumz (Tanzania)
• Tyla (South Africa) – Riding global fame with Amapiano fusion
• Uncle Waffles (Eswatini) – Reinforcing female dominance in the DJ scene

Three Nominations

• Ipupa (DRC)
• Ferre Gola (DRC)
• Himra (Côte d’Ivoire)
• Didi B (Côte d’Ivoire)
• Eboloko (Gabon)
• Emma’a (Gabon)
• Jaylann (Morocco)
• Juma Jux (Tanzania) – Song of the Year for “Ololufe mi”
• Mawhoo (South Africa)
• Nasty C (South Africa)
• Rema (Nigeria) – Also contending for Artiste of the Year

Two Nominations

• Ayra Starr (Nigeria) – Facing Burna Boy, Davido, and Rema in the Artiste of the Year category

AFRIMA 2025 extends beyond the continent, celebrating African talent abroad. Notable nominees include:

Male: DJ Snake, Niska, Tayc, Tiakola, Odeal
Female: Aya Nakamura, Darkoo, Deborah Lukalu, Faouzia, Ronisia

The 2025 AFRIMA nominations prove once again that African music is not just thriving, it’s leading global soundscapes. With icons like Burna Boy, Davido, and Rema battling it out alongside rising stars like Shallipopi, Moliy, and Ayra Starr, this year’s awards promise unforgettable moments. As voting begins on September 10, fans will play a crucial role in deciding who takes home Africa’s biggest music honors.

Open TikTok anytime and chances are you’ll come across Nigerian-related content. Jump into the comment section of a non-Nigerian creator and you’re likely to find Nigerians there too, dropping jokes, slang, and reactions that sometimes outshine the video itself.
Nigeria has quietly become one of TikTok’s most influential hubs, not just in Africa but worldwide. And now, people from across the globe are deliberately leaning on Nigerian culture and audiences to boost their own visibility.

TikTok has become the world’s stage for creativity, and few countries have embraced the platform as vibrantly as Nigeria. From dance challenges to comedy skits, Nigerian creators have not only captured local audiences but also shaped global trends. Yet behind the virality lies a curious dynamic: people from other parts of the world are deliberately targeting Nigerian users to farm engagement.

Nigeria’s Rise on TikTok

Nigeria stands out as one of TikTok’s fastest-growing markets in Africa. With more than 60% of its population under the age of 25, the country provides a young, digitally active audience hungry for content. Afrobeats, Nigeria’s most popular cultural export, has become a global soundtrack on the app, pulling millions into dances and remixes that often begin on Nigerian soil.

For TikTok’s algorithm, which favors quick and heavy interaction, Nigerian activity is gold. The country’s users comment, share, and like at strikingly high rates, boosting the visibility of videos in record time. This engagement has turned Nigeria into an unlikely hub for creators around the world who want fast traction on their content.

Farming Engagement: How Global Creators Tap In

Across continents, creators are increasingly tailoring content with Nigerians in mind. The methods vary:

1. Using Afrobeats tracks to ride viral sound trends.
2. Recreating Nigerian dance steps or comedy skits for global audiences.
3. Hashtag targeting, where foreign creators push their content under Nigerian-related tags.

The result is often predictable, Nigerian users engagement is massive, pushing these creators’ videos higher in TikTok’s discovery feed and sometimes to worldwide visibility.

This dynamic has sparked debate: is the global adoption of Nigerian content a form of cultural appreciation, or is it another example of extraction where others profit off creativity without acknowledgment?

Nigerians are not just participants in the TikTok ecosystem; they are the spark that powers it. Our creativity has fueled global trends, soundtracked millions of videos, and reshaped how audiences interact with short-form content.

Nigerian actor and creative advocate Bucci Franklin has announced plans for the first edition of the Creative Continuum Africa Summit (CCA Summit), scheduled to take place on 16 September 2025 at the Landmark Event Centre, Victoria Island, Lagos.

The event, which Franklin describes as a platform for performers and creatives, is expected to focus on themes of sustainability, empowerment, and legacy within Africa’s creative industries. In a note shared on his social media pages and titled ‘My letter to You… A Creative Continuum Africa Ode,‘ he expressed hopes that the gathering would provide a space for artists to reflect on their journeys and find pathways toward long-term wellbeing.

Promotion for the summit has emphasized punctuality, with organizers stating it will begin promptly at 8:00 AM and close by 12:00 PM. Registration is free, with access available through Franklin’s official social media channels.

While detailed information on the program, speakers, or partners has not yet been released, the announcement has generated interest among creative professionals and audiences online. Many see it as a timely initiative as discussions on the sustainability of Africa’s creative economy continue to grow.

The Creative Continuum Africa Summit 2025 will be the first of its kind under Franklin’s leadership, and further details are expected in the weeks leading up to the event.

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A post shared by Bucci Franklin (@buccifranklin)

Why I Think This Matters

Africa’s creative industries, from film and music to fashion and digital storytelling continue to expand into billion-dollar markets. Yet, performers often face gaps in wellbeing, sustainability, and structural support. By initiating this summit, Franklin aims to connect these realities to solutions, offering a continuum where creative work is not only celebrated but also sustained across generations.

Your 20s are often called the most important decade of adulthood. This is when habits form, career paths take shape, and personal choices create ripple effects that last well into your 30s and beyond. While it’s natural to make mistakes, there are some habits and decisions that can quietly waste this golden decade if you’re not careful.

If you’re wondering what to avoid in your 20s, here are ten common traps that can hold you back and how to break free from them.

Living Without Clear Goals

Wandering through your 20s without direction may feel adventurous, but it leaves you unprepared for the future. Set realistic short-term and long-term goals; whether it’s saving a specific amount, pursuing a career milestone, or developing a new skill. Clear goals provide focus and keep you accountable.

Ignoring Financial Discipline

Financial mistakes in your 20s can follow you for decades. Overspending, ignoring savings, and relying on credit cards can pile up debt. Instead, build a budget, start an emergency fund, and explore beginner-friendly investments. Even small steps compound over time.

Staying in Toxic Relationships

Whether it’s a friend who constantly drains your energy or a relationship that holds you back, surrounding yourself with the wrong people can derail your progress. Choose relationships that add value, inspire growth, and bring positivity into your life.

Neglecting Your Health

Skipping exercise, living on junk food, or sacrificing sleep might not show immediate consequences, but they add up. Build sustainable habits like consistent workouts, balanced nutrition, and adequate rest—so you protect your future self from avoidable health struggles.

Read this: Longevity Lifestyle: 7 Habits for a Longer, Healthier Life

Procrastinating on Skill Development

Relying solely on your degree is no longer enough in today’s competitive world. Learn new skills, take certifications, and stay curious. The earlier you invest in personal development, the more doors you’ll open later in life.

Chasing Validation Instead of Purpose

Social media can create pressure to look successful rather than be successful. Don’t let likes or followers define your progress. Focus on meaningful pursuits skills, relationships, and experiences that add lasting value beyond the digital screen.

Playing It Too Safe

The biggest risk in your 20s is not taking any risk at all. Fear of failure often keeps people from starting businesses, moving to new places, or trying different career paths. Use this decade to experiment, fail fast, and learn.

Neglecting Networking

Opportunities rarely come from talent alone; they come from people. Build professional and social networks early. Attend events, connect with mentors, and nurture relationships that could benefit your career and personal growth in the future.

Read this: 5 Habits That Will Transform Your Career in the Next 12 Months

Avoiding Responsibility

Delaying financial planning, career advancement, or personal accountability only makes transitions harder later. Taking responsibility early; whether in managing money or building discipline lays a strong foundation for independence.

Constantly Comparing Yourself to Others

Everyone moves at a different pace. Comparing yourself to friends or online personalities can lead to unnecessary pressure and self-doubt. Measure progress against your past self, not someone else’s timeline.

Your 20s should be about exploration, but not carelessness. Avoiding these common mistakes can save you years of regret and help you step into your 30s with confidence, financial stability, and a strong sense of direction.

The Recording Academy has announced the appointment of J. Ivy and Torae as the new Co-Chairs of its Black Music Collective (BMC), signaling a continued commitment to amplifying Black voices and shaping a more inclusive music industry.

J. Ivy is a three-time Grammy Award-winning poet and recording artist celebrated for works such as The Poet Who Sat By The Door (2023) and The Light Inside (2024). He also serves as Governor of the Recording Academy’s Chicago Chapter, where he has championed creator advocacy and educational programs.

Torae, an artist, songwriter, and media personality, has played an active leadership role within the Academy, serving as President of the New York Chapter and currently as a National Trustee. His work spans music performance, songwriting credits on charting records, and broadcasting, including hosting shows on SiriusXM.

Together, Ivy and Torae will act as thought leaders for the Black Music Collective, helping design and implement programs that foster advocacy, education, wellness, innovation, and investment, particularly in Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs).

What Is the Black Music Collective?

The Black Music Collective (BMC) is an advisory group within the Recording Academy established in 2020 to address equity and representation gaps in the music industry. Composed of prominent Black artists, executives, and industry professionals, the BMC serves as a hub for collaboration and action under the Academy’s umbrella.

Its mission is to uplift Black music creators, expand access to opportunities, and ensure the contributions of Black artists are fully recognized. The group operates through initiatives such as:

1. Scholarships and Education: Programs like the “Your Future Is Now” scholarship, launched with Amazon Music, provide financial and mentorship support to students at HBCUs.
2. HBCU Love Tour: Engagement programs that bring GRAMMY U and industry experts to campuses, exposing students to music business careers.
3. Global Impact Awards: A pre-GRAMMY celebration honoring artists and executives such as Missy Elliott, Dr. Dre, Lil Wayne, MC Lyte, John Legend, and Sylvia Rhone for their cultural influence.
4. Leadership and Advocacy: Guided by Honorary Chairs including Quincy Jones, John Legend, Jimmy Jam, and Yolanda Adams, the BMC drives dialogue and action around systemic change.

Why the Appointment Matters

In a statement, Recording Academy CEO Harvey Mason Jr. praised Ivy and Torae as “stalwart voices for representation and integrity,” noting that their leadership will deepen the Academy’s commitment to celebrating and supporting Black music creators.

The move underscores the Academy’s broader efforts to align with diversity and inclusion goals, ensuring that Black voices are seen, heard, and valued within the music industry’s most influential institution.

As co-chairs, J. Ivy and Torae are expected to shape programs that not only recognize past contributions but also build pipelines for the next generation of creators, particularly in communities that have historically lacked access to resources.

Apple is preparing a major shift in its iPhone lineup, with reports saying the company is working on a redesign cycle that will stretch over the next three years and culminate in the release of its first foldable iPhone. The device is projected to debut in late 2026, with broader availability and market push expected in 2027, coinciding with the iPhone’s 20th anniversary.
Reports say Apple’s strategy begins with the iPhone 17 Air in 2025, designed to be slimmer and lighter. In 2026, attention will turn to the company’s first foldable iPhone, and by 2027 Apple could unveil an all-glass design iPhone to mark two decades since the original launch.

This phased approach reflects how Apple typically introduces major design shifts, ensuring each step aligns with its long-term hardware and ecosystem goals.

Foldable Design in Focus

According to supply chain leaks and analyst projections, the foldable iPhone is expected to adopt a book-style design, opening vertically like Samsung’s Galaxy Z Fold models. It could feature a 5.5-inch external screen and a larger 7.8-inch internal display, with Apple reportedly working on ways to minimize the crease effect found in most foldable screens.

Materials under consideration include titanium and stainless steel, providing a balance of durability and lightweight construction. Early specifications suggest a thickness of around 9 mm when folded, and about 4.5 mm when opened.

Key Features Under Review

Reports also say the foldable iPhone may replace Face ID with a side-mounted Touch ID sensor, reflecting design constraints in foldable displays. It could also adopt an eSIM-only setup, dropping the physical SIM slot entirely.

The camera system is rumored to include multiple lenses across different panels; with options on the cover display, the inner screen, and the rear aimed at enhancing both photography and videography.

Pricing and Market Positioning

Pricing projections for the foldable model range from $2,000 to $2,500, placing it among the most expensive smartphones in the market. Analysts believe Apple will position the device as a high-end flagship for early adopters, while reinforcing its presence in the growing foldable category.
The move comes as global smartphone sales slow and manufacturers search for new growth opportunities. Rivals such as Samsung, Huawei, and Oppo already have multiple foldable devices in the market. Analysts say Apple’s entry, even later than competitors, could reshape consumer demand—just as it did with categories like smartwatches and wireless earbuds.
While Apple has not officially confirmed a foldable iPhone, reports indicate that mass production could begin in 2026. The timing would align with Apple’s strategy of introducing groundbreaking products during milestone years, making 2027 a symbolic target for the device.

For now, customers can expect incremental updates with the iPhone 16 lineup later this year, but all signs point to a more dramatic evolution of the iPhone as Apple prepares for its next chapter.