Taylor Swift has officially made Spotify history, becoming the first female artist to surpass 120 billion total streams across all credits. The milestone, confirmed today via Chart Data on X and reflected in live Spotify analytics, cements Swift’s place as one of the most influential and enduring artists of the streaming era.
This and many other achievements serve as proof of the artist’s unmatched global reach, loyal fanbase, and cultural impact over nearly two decades in music.
According to live streaming charts:
Total Spotify streams: ~120.23 billion across all credits (lead and features).
Tracks contributing: 650+ songs, from early hits like Love Story and You Belong With Me to recent chart-toppers like Anti-Hero, Cruel Summer, and Cardigan.
Chart performance: Swift’s music consistently appears on global playlists and daily streaming charts, ensuring her catalogue grows steadily over time.
This milestone places Swift not only as the most-streamed female artist on Spotify, but also among the elite group of artists globally who have reached 120 billion streams joining ranks with Drake, and other streaming legends.
Tours like the Eras Tour, viral social media moments, and new album releases keep her connected to both longtime fans and new listeners.
With new releases, deluxe editions, and ongoing playlist presence, Swift’s streams are expected to continue climbing well beyond 120 billion. Each milestone reinforces her status as one of the defining artists of the 21st century, with influence measured not only in numbers but in cultural resonance.
The 2026 Advanced Imaging Society Lumiere Awards brought together filmmakers, technology innovators, and industry leaders to celebrate one of cinema’s most overlooked but increasingly important aspects: technological storytelling. Unlike traditional awards that focus on acting or directing, the Lumiere Awards spotlight excellence in cinematic technology, including advanced imaging, immersive audio, HDR visuals, animation innovation, and virtual production.
Organized annually by the Advanced Imaging Society, the ceremony honors films, television series, and immersive media projects that push the boundaries of how stories are experienced on screen. Over the years, the awards have become a respected benchmark within Hollywood’s technical community, highlighting productions that combine creative ambition with groundbreaking production techniques.
This year’s awards were dominated by projects that showcased innovation across multiple genres. Sinners emerged as the biggest live-action winner, claiming top honors for Best Feature Film – Live Action and Best Theatrical Audio. Disney’s Zootopia 2 led the animation field with the Best Animated Feature award, while Jon M. Chu’s Wicked: For Good secured Best Motion Picture – Musical, reinforcing the film’s growing awards momentum.
Television and streaming projects also played a major role in the ceremony. Andor Season 2 and Your Friendly Neighborhood Spider-Man were recognized for episodic storytelling excellence, while Stranger Things Season 5 and Severance highlighted the rising production quality of modern television through wins in HDR and sound design categories.
Other technical achievements included recognition for Avatar: Fire and Ash for a standout cinematic sequence and KPop Demon Hunters for both musical and song categories, reflecting the awards’ commitment to celebrating innovation across diverse storytelling formats.
Full List of 2026 Lumiere Awards Winners
Film & Major Categories
Best Feature Film – Live Action: Sinners
Best Feature Film – Animation: Zootopia 2
Best Motion Picture – Musical: Wicked: For Good
Best Documentary: The King of Color
Episodic & Television Awards
Best Episodic – Live Action: Andor Season 2
Best Episodic – Animation: Your Friendly Neighborhood Spider-Man
Best Audio – Episodic: Severance
Audio & Music
Best Audio – Theatrical: Sinners
Best Original Song: “Golden” — KPop Demon Hunters
Best Musical Scene or Sequence: KPop Demon Hunters — “Golden”
Technical Achievement & Visual Innovation
Best Use of High Dynamic Range (HDR) – Feature Film: F1
Best Use of High Dynamic Range (HDR) – Episodic: Stranger Things Season 5
Best Theatrical Scene or Sequence: Avatar: Fire and Ash — “Flux Devil”
Immersive & Specialty Categories
Best International 3D Documentary: NHK – The Mark of Beauty: Tokyo Imperial Palace
Best Virtual Reality Experience: Dolphins of the Reef
Special Honors & Industry Recognition
Judy Garland Legacy Award: Jon M. Chu (Wicked: For Good)
Harold Lloyd Award: Joseph Kosinski & Jerry Bruckheimer (F1)
Distinguished Artist Award: Ethan Hawke
Sir Charles Wheatstone Award: Google
Governor’s Award for Cinema Excellence: VUE
Production Technology Awards: AMD, DisneyResearch|Studios, Flawless, 6P Color, CoreWeave
Disney is reportedly moving forward with a new chapter in the Pirates of the Caribbean franchise, with early reports suggesting the upcoming project will introduce a fresh generation of characters while maintaining ties to the original saga. According to multiple entertainment outlets, the new film may center on the story of Jack Sparrow’s son, signaling a potential shift away from the long-running focus on the iconic pirate himself.
The project is still said to be in early development and has not yet been officially confirmed by Disney, but industry discussions indicate that the studio is actively exploring a reboot or soft continuation of the blockbuster series.
The reported storyline points toward a generational transition within the Pirates of the Caribbean universe. Rather than centering solely on Captain Jack Sparrow, the narrative may follow a younger lead character connected to Sparrow’s legacy. While specific plot details remain under wraps, the approach suggests Disney is looking to refresh the franchise for a new audience while retaining familiar lore.
This move aligns with the broader Hollywood trend of reviving major franchises through legacy characters and next-generation storytelling, a strategy that has seen mixed but commercially viable results across several blockbuster properties.
Oscar-nominated screenwriter Krysty Wilson-Cairns, best known for her work on 1917, is reportedly in negotiations to write the screenplay. Her involvement could signal a more character-driven direction for the franchise’s next phase, given her reputation for grounded storytelling and strong narrative structure.
However, no official contract announcement has been made, and her role remains subject to final confirmation.
Reports have also linked actress Margot Robbie to the project in an unspecified role, though no casting decisions have been publicly confirmed. At the same time, there is ongoing speculation regarding Johnny Depp’s potential return as Jack Sparrow.
Given the franchise’s global popularity and cultural impact with five films released between 2003 and 2017 any new installment is expected to generate significant attention from longtime fans and newer audiences alike.
The reboot remains in its early stages, with no director, production timeline, or release date officially announced. Industry observers suggest that Disney is still shaping the creative direction before moving forward into full production.
Until formal announcements are made, details about the storyline, cast, and creative team should be considered developing reports rather than confirmed facts.
Nigerian media personality Ebuka Obi-Uchendu has once again captured hearts across social media after he re-proposed to his wife, Cynthia Obi-Uchendu, in a romantic surprise in Italy to mark their 10th wedding anniversary. The heartfelt moment; set against one of the world’s most iconic backdrops, has been widely celebrated as an inspiring expression of enduring love and commitment.
To commemorate ten years of marriage, Ebuka and Cynthia travelled to Rome and Vatican City for a special anniversary trip. The high point of their celebration came at St. Peter’s Basilica in Vatican City, where Ebuka surprised his wife by getting down on one knee and presenting her with a new engagement ring, effectively renewing his vows in front of onlookers. Cynthia accepted the proposal, reaffirming their bond in a moment that quickly spread across online platforms.
Following the tender exchange, the couple attended Mass together inside the basilica. Reports indicate they also received an official 10th anniversary commemoration certificate from the Pope, adding a spiritual and memorable layer to their milestone celebration.
Videos and photos from the re-proposal quickly went viral, with fans and followers on social media praising Ebuka’s thoughtful gesture and the couple’s long-lasting marriage. The affectionate celebration served as a reminder that love can deepen with time, even for couples in the public eye.
Ebuka Obi-Uchendu is a renowned Nigerian media personality, lawyer, and TV host best known for his work on shows like Big Brother Naija and Rubbin’ Minds. He and Cynthia married in 2016, and their relationship has since been admired by fans for its strength and relatability.
A re-proposal on a significant anniversary like a 10th highlights not only the romantic bond between partners but also the importance of intentional celebration in long-term relationships. By choosing such a historic and public setting, Ebuka’s gesture resonated with many who view anniversaries as opportunities to reaffirm love and commitment.
A new international feature film, Clarissa, is set to deliver a modern cinematic reinterpretation of Virginia Woolf’s legendary 1925 novel Mrs. Dalloway. Directed by acclaimed Nigerian-born filmmaking duo Arie Esiri and Chuko Esiri, the upcoming drama blends literary prestige, global storytelling, and a powerful ensemble cast; positioning it as one of the most anticipated literary adaptations currently in development after recent announcements.
Led by Sophie Okonedo alongside David Oyelowo, Ayo Edebiri, India Amarteifio, and Toheeb Jimoh, Clarissa signals a cross-cultural production designed to connect African storytelling with international cinema. While a confirmed release date has not yet been announced, the film has already secured worldwide distribution, suggesting a major global rollout is on the horizon.
Inspired by Mrs. Dalloway, Clarissa is not a traditional period remake but a contemporary reimagining of Woolf’s iconic narrative. The original novel followed a single day in the life of Clarissa Dalloway as she prepared for a social gathering while reflecting on memory, identity, and past relationships.
The Esiri brothers’ adaptation reportedly retains the emotional and introspective themes of Woolf’s work while placing the story within a modern cultural landscape. Rather than replicating early 20th-century London, the film reframes the story through a contemporary setting, exploring how internal reflection and social performance shape personal identity in today’s world.
Arie and Chuko Esiri rose to international recognition with their debut feature Eyimofe (This Is My Desire), a festival-acclaimed drama praised for its realism and emotional depth. Their filmmaking style often centers on intimate character studies, making them a compelling creative match for Woolf’s psychologically rich storytelling.
With Clarissa, the directors expand their artistic scope into a larger international production while maintaining their signature focus on identity, transformation, and human experience. Reports indicate that portions of the film were shot in Nigeria, including Lagos and Delta State; a detail that reinforces the filmmakers’ commitment to grounding global stories within African environments.
The film was also reportedly shot on 35mm film, an artistic choice that may give the project a textured, cinematic aesthetic aligned with its literary origins.
Academy Award nominee Sophie Okonedo leads the film as the central character, Clarissa; a role expected to demand emotional nuance and layered performance. Okonedo’s history of powerful dramatic roles places her at the center of the film’s introspective narrative.
David Oyelowo joins the cast in a key role connected to Clarissa’s past, bringing his signature dramatic presence to the project. Rising talents India Amarteifio and Toheeb Jimoh are also part of the ensemble, reportedly portraying younger versions of major characters.
Ayo Edebiri, whose recent film and television performances have gained global acclaim, rounds out the cast in a supporting role. While specific character details remain undisclosed, the diverse lineup suggests a performance-driven story anchored in emotional depth.
The film has secured worldwide distribution through Neon, a company known for championing critically acclaimed international films. This development signals strong industry confidence in Clarissa’s artistic and commercial potential.
Although official release plans have not yet been confirmed, industry watchers expect a major film festival premiere before broader theatrical or streaming release. Additional announcements regarding trailers, premiere dates, and distribution strategies are anticipated in the coming months.
As anticipation builds, audiences are now waiting for the first trailer and festival announcements that will offer a clearer look at how Arie and Chuko Esiri have transformed one of the most celebrated novels of the twentieth century into a contemporary cinematic experience; one that could redefine how classic literature is reinterpreted on the global stage.
U.S. President Donald Trump has come under intense criticism after sharing a controversial AI-generated video on his social media platform, Truth Social, that included a brief segment depicting former President Barack Obama and former First Lady Michelle Obama as apes. The post has sparked widespread backlash from political figures, media commentators, and social media users who described the imagery as offensive and racially insensitive.
The video was reportedly part of a longer political montage that included commentary about U.S. politics and repeated disputed claims surrounding the 2020 presidential election. According to multiple reports, the AI-altered segment featuring the Obamas appeared briefly toward the end of the clip and circulated quickly online after Trump shared it publicly.
The reaction to the video was swift and largely critical. Many observers condemned the imagery for invoking historically racist tropes that have long been used to dehumanize Black individuals. Critics argued that sharing such content contributes to harmful narratives and fuels political hostility.
California Governor Gavin Newsom was among prominent figures who publicly criticised the post, calling the content “disgusting” and urging stronger accountability from political leaders and public figures. Other commentators across the political spectrum also expressed concern over the spread of AI-generated misinformation and the ethical boundaries of political content shared online.
On social media platforms, reactions ranged from outrage to concern about how AI technology is being used in political messaging. Some users warned that manipulated visuals and deepfake-style edits may increase confusion and deepen divisions during election cycles and political debates.
The controversy highlights growing worries about the role of artificial intelligence in political communication. Experts have noted that AI-generated videos can make it difficult for viewers to distinguish satire, manipulation, and factual content especially when shared by influential figures with large followings.
This is not the first time Trump has been criticised for sharing edited or AI-generated political material, though the current incident has drawn particular scrutiny because of the racial implications associated with the imagery used.
The incident has reignited discussions about responsible online behaviour by political leaders and the ethical limits of digital satire and political messaging. Analysts say controversies like this underscore the need for clearer standards on AI content and stronger public awareness about how manipulated visuals can shape political narratives.
As of the latest reports, there has been no official response from Barack or Michelle Obama regarding the video. (Note: This detail may change as reactions continue to develop.)
Davido has officially announced additional dates for his ongoing 5ive Alive World Tour, extending the global run into 2026 with new stops across Africa, Europe, and North America. The expansion follows the success of the tour’s earlier legs and continues the Afrobeats star’s worldwide push in support of his 5IVE album era.
The newly added dates reflect Davido’s growing international demand, with concerts scheduled in major European cities including Vienna, Zurich, Rotterdam, Brussels, Stockholm, Copenhagen, and Barcelona. The tour will also return to Africa with stops in Tanzania and Zambia, while a pair of high-profile festival appearances at Coachella 2026 mark one of the tour’s biggest global highlights.
The announcement positions 5ive Alive as one of Davido’s most ambitious touring cycles yet, combining solo arena performances with festival stages and international fan meetups. Over the past few years, Davido has consistently strengthened his touring presence across Europe and North America, and this latest extension further cements his reputation as one of Afrobeats’ most active global performers.
While some venue details remain limited, the confirmed schedule already signals a packed run of back-to-back shows, highlighting both emerging markets and long-standing fanbases. European audiences will see the singer return to key cities where Afrobeats continues to thrive, while African stops reflect Davido’s ongoing commitment to performing across the continent.
One of the most talked about additions is his appearance at Coachella 2026, where he is scheduled to perform across both festival weekends in April. The festival slot places him among a select group of African artists to reach one of the world’s most visible music stages, reinforcing Afrobeats’ continued crossover into global pop culture.
The expanded 2026 dates for the 5ive Alive World Tour currently include:
Tanzania — February 7
Vienna — March 25
Zurich — March 27
Rotterdam — March 28
Brussels — March 31
Stockholm — April 2
Copenhagen — April 3
Barcelona — April 5
Coachella — April 11 & 18
Zambia — May 2
With more dates and venue confirmations expected in the coming months, the 5ive Alive World Tour continues to grow into one of the most extensive Afrobeats touring runs in recent years. For Davido, the expansion represents both a celebration of his current album cycle and a broader statement about the genre’s ongoing global momentum.
Nigerian Afropop artist Shoday has officially released his debut studio album, HYBRID, marking a defining moment in his transition from rising internet-era creative to fully established recording artist. The project arrives following months of online buzz and strong streaming traction, particularly driven by the success of the single “Paparazzi.”
With HYBRID, Shoday presents a 14-track body of work built around sonic versatility; blending Afropop, street pop, melodic Afro-R&B, and contemporary African pop influences into a cohesive debut statement. The album positions him within Nigeria’s fast-evolving new-school movement, where artists are no longer boxed into single-genre identities but instead operate fluidly across sounds.
Before the album’s release, Shoday had steadily built momentum through a combination of viral online presence and strategically released singles that resonated with younger streaming audiences. His breakout wave accelerated when “Paparazzi” began gaining traction across Nigerian digital platforms and social media spaces, eventually becoming one of the most discussed records tied to the upcoming album.
That early success helped establish anticipation for HYBRID not just as a collection of songs, but as a project expected to define his musical identity.
The album’s title reflects its core idea: a deliberate fusion of styles and moods rather than adherence to a singular sonic template. Across the project, Shoday experiments with tempo shifts, melodic structures, and vocal approaches designed to appeal to both mainstream Afropop listeners and the growing alternative-leaning audience within African music.
Rather than positioning himself solely as a street-pop act or melodic crooner, Shoday uses HYBRID to explore multiple sonic lanes. The album alternates between upbeat, dance-leaning production and softer, introspective compositions, reflecting the broader direction Nigerian pop music has taken in recent years.
The project’s sequencing suggests a conscious attempt to balance replay value with artistic exploration combining radio-friendly hooks with emotionally reflective songwriting. This approach aligns with the new generation of Nigerian artists who prioritize versatility as a defining strength rather than a risk.
One of HYBRID’s key strengths lies in its collaborative network, bringing together a mix of established hitmakers and emerging voices from across Nigeria and beyond. The featured lineup includes Kizz Daniel, FOLA, Pozer, Olivetheboy, BhadBoi OML, taves, and Ayo Maff; artists whose individual sounds help expand the album’s musical range.
Full Tracklist — HYBRID
Glam and Fame
Joy
Somebody
Paparazzi (feat. FOLA)
Shoday Kilode
OBT (feat. BhadBoi OML)
Postcode
Figure 8 (feat. Pozer)
A1 (feat. Kizz Daniel)
Screaming Beauty (feat. Olivetheboy)
Bad and Bouje (feat. taves)
Sober
Halle
Casablanca (feat. Ayo Maff)
Initial reactions to HYBRID have centered around its accessibility and range. Listeners have responded positively to the album’s melodic strength and the balance between club-ready production and emotionally grounded songwriting. Industry observers have also noted the project’s strategic collaborations, which help position Shoday within multiple audience segments simultaneously.
While it is still early to measure long-term commercial impact, early streaming discussions suggest the album has strong replay potential, particularly among younger Afropop listeners who favor versatile, playlist-driven listening experiences.
Debut albums often serve as a declaration of artistic identity, and HYBRID functions as exactly that for Shoday. Rather than narrowing himself into a single niche, he presents himself as a flexible performer capable of navigating multiple sounds.
With HYBRID, Shoday delivers a debut project designed to introduce his full creative range while establishing a clear presence within Nigeria’s contemporary pop landscape. The album’s genre-blending approach, collaborative depth, and accessible songwriting position it as a strong entry point into his evolving artistic journey and a project that may shape how audiences view his role in the next phase of Afropop’s growth.
American rapper J. Cole has officially released his highly anticipated seventh studio album, The Fall-Off, on February 6, 2026. The project arrives as a double album and marks one of the biggest moments in his career, blending introspection, legacy-driven storytelling, and significant international collaborations.
The Fall-Off is distributed through Dreamville and Interscope Records, with executive production credits including J. Cole himself, Ibrahim Hamad, and T-Minus. The album spans 24 tracks split across two discs, each reflecting a different chapter in Cole’s life and journey as an artist.
On The Fall-Off, Cole incorporates a range of guest vocals that broaden his sound and global reach. Confirmed featured artists include:
Tems: Nigerian singer-songwriter known for her emotive voice and worldwide collaborations.
Burna Boy: Nigerian Afro-fusion star blending Afrobeat rhythms with global music.
Future: American rapper featured with vocal contributions.
Erykah Badu: Legendary American neo-soul artist.
Album Structure: Double Disc Explained
J. Cole designed The Fall-Off as two distinct parts:
Disc 29 – Reflects Cole’s mindset around age 29, tracing his early rise in hip-hop.
Disc 39 – Offers insight into his thoughts at age 39, showcasing growth, reflection, and maturity.
This structure frames the album as a musical autobiography, connecting his past with where he stands today.
Full Tracklist
DISC 29
29 Intro
Two Six
SAFETY
Run a Train
Poor Thang
Legacy
Bunce Road Blues
WHO TF IZ U
Drum n Bass
The Let Out
Bombs in the Ville / Hit the Gas
Lonely at the Top (Bonus)
DISC 39
39 Intro
The Fall-Off Is Inevitable
The Villest
Old Dog
Life Sentence
Only You
Man Up Above
I Love Her Again
What If
Quik Stop
and the whole world is the Ville
Ocean Way (Bonus)
At the time of release, streaming platforms and social media reacted strongly to The Fall-Off. Fans praised the lyrical depth of the new songs and the blend of voices, especially the contributions from Tems and Burna Boy which many see as a positive step in the crossover between American hip-hop and African music.
In a film industry crowded with sequels and franchise spectacles, the upcoming indie drama Hal arrives with a deep human story. With Alexander Ludwig and Emma Roberts confirmed to lead the project, and filmmaker Mark Williams directing, the film is shaping up as an emotionally grounded drama rooted in real-world impact rather than cinematic excess.
Inspired by the life of humanitarian Hal Donaldson and the founding of the global nonprofit Convoy of Hope, Hal promises a character-driven narrative that explores loss, purpose, and the transformative power of service. Though early in development and still surrounded by limited public details, the project has already sparked interest for its subject matter and the talent attached.
At its heart, Hal is expected to be a biographical drama built around the experiences that shaped Donaldson’s journey into humanitarian work. Rather than presenting a traditional hero narrative filled with exaggerated spectacle, the film aims to focus on personal decisions, emotional struggles, and the human motivations behind acts of compassion.
Donaldson’s early life was marked by tragedy, including the loss of his father in a car accident when he was young. That experience would go on to shape his perspective on empathy, resilience, and the importance of helping others. His story eventually led to the creation of Convoy of Hope in 1994, a faith-based humanitarian organization that has since grown into a global force delivering food, disaster relief, and long-term community support to millions worldwide.
The film’s narrative is expected to reflect not just the successes of the organization but also the emotional and moral challenges faced along the way. By centering on the person behind the mission, Hal seeks to present a grounded portrayal of leadership rooted in compassion rather than fame or recognition.
The decision to cast Alexander Ludwig and Emma Roberts suggests that the film will lean heavily into performance-driven storytelling. Ludwig, widely recognized for his work in Vikings and other major film projects, has built a reputation for portraying characters who balance strength with vulnerability. His involvement hints at a nuanced portrayal of Donaldson’s internal and external struggles as he navigates personal loss and public responsibility.
Emma Roberts brings a different but equally compelling energy. Known for her diverse roles across film and television, she has consistently demonstrated the ability to portray layered characters navigating emotional complexity. While her specific role has not yet been disclosed, her presence points toward a storyline that explores relationships and emotional connections alongside the humanitarian journey at the film’s core.
Together, the pairing of Ludwig and Roberts suggests a film grounded in human relationships, exploring not only one man’s mission but also the people who shape and support that mission.
Director Mark Williams, known for his work as a producer and filmmaker focused on grounded narratives, is leading the project. His involvement signals a commitment to storytelling that prioritizes authenticity and character development over visual spectacle. Williams’ experience in balancing independent filmmaking sensibilities with accessible storytelling could prove essential in bringing a true-story drama like Hal to life.
The film is being positioned as a story with emotional resonance and universal themes, rather than a niche faith-based project or a typical Hollywood biopic. This approach may allow it to reach audiences beyond those already familiar with Donaldson’s work, opening the door to broader conversations about compassion and purpose.
The film has the potential to spotlight real-world challenges such as hunger, disaster response, and global inequality without turning them into abstract concepts. Through personal storytelling, it may encourage viewers to see humanitarian issues not as distant problems but as shared human experiences.
While Hal has generated early buzz following the casting announcement, many production details remain under wraps. No official release date has been announced, and additional cast members and plot specifics have yet to be revealed. This early stage leaves room for speculation but also suggests that the filmmakers are carefully shaping the story before revealing more to the public.
Stay with Streamdorm for more updates as this story develops.
