At the Peacock Theatre in Los Angeles, the 2025 Creative Arts Emmy Awards were held, celebrating television, arts, culture, and crafts. Over 100 films, creatives, and filmmakers were nominated across multiple categories, and a total of 50 awards were handed over.
The Penguin, Andor, and Bridgeton were among the top winners of the night. In acting, Bryan Cranston and Julianne Nicholson were both presented with an award as guest stars in Hacks and The Studio, respectively. Meanwhile, in animation, Arcane and Love, Death + Robots were big winners.
GUEST ACTRESS IN A COMEDY SERIES Julianne Nicholson, Hacks
CONTEMPORARY MAKEUP (NON-PROSTHETIC) The Penguin
PROSTHETIC MAKEUP The Penguin
PERIOD OR FANTASY/SCI-FI MAKEUP (NON-PROTHETIC) House of the Dragon
PERIOD COSTUMES Bridgerton
CONTEMPORARY COSTUMES FOR A SERIES The Studio
CONTEMPORARY COSTUMES FOR A LIMITED OR ANTHOLOGY SERIES, OR MOVIE The Penguin
FANTASY/SCI-FI COSTUMES Andor
PERIOD OR FANTASY/SCI-FI HAIRSTYLING Bridgerton
CONTEMPORARY HAIRSTYLING The Penguin PRODUCTION DESIGN FOR A NARRATIVE CONTEMPORARY PROGRAM (ONE HOUR OR MORE) Severance PRODUCTION DESIGN FOR A NARRATIVE PROGRAM (HALF-HOUR) The Studio
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PRODUCTION DESIGN FOR A NARRATIVE PERIOD OR FANTASY PROGRAM (ONE-HOUR OR MORE) Andor
CASTING FOR A DRAMA SERIES The Pitt
GUEST ACTOR IN A COMEDY SERIES Bryan Cranston, The Studio
CASTING FOR A COMEDY SERIES The Studio
CASTING FOR A LIMITED OR ANTHOLOGY SERIES OR MOVIE Adolescence
STUNT COORDINATION FOR COMEDY PROGRAMMING The Righteous Gemstones
STUNT COORDINATION FOR DRAMA PROGRAMMING The Boys
STUNT PERFORMANCE The Boys
ANIMATED PROGRAM Arcane
CHARACTER VOICE-OVER PERFORMANCE Julie Andrews, Bridgerton
INDIVIDUAL ACHIEVEMENT IN ANIMATION(juried) Arcane, background design Arcane, color Love, Death + Robots, Production Design Love, Death + Robots, Character Animation Love, Death + Robots, Character Design
CHOREOGRAPHY FOR SCRIPTED PROGRAMMING Étoile PICTURE EDITING FOR A SINGLE-CAMERA COMEDY SERIES The Studio
PICTURE EDITING FOR A MULTI-CAMERA COMEDY SERIES Frasier
GUEST ACTRESS IN A DRAMA SERIES Merritt Wever, Severance
PICTURE EDITING FOR A DRAMA SERIES Andor
PICTURE EDITING FOR A LIMITED OR ANTHOLOGY SERIES OR MOVIE Monsters: The Lyle & Erik Menendez Story
SPECIAL VISUAL EFFECTS IN A SEASON OR A MOVIE Andor
TITLE DESIGN Severance SPECIAL VISUAL EFFECTS IN A SINGLE EPISODE The Penguin
MOTION DESIGN(juried) Octopus!
SOUND EDITING FOR A COMEDY OR DRAMA SERIES The Last of Us
SOUND EDITING FOR A LIMITED OR ANTHOLOGY SERIES, MOVIE OR SPECIAL The Penguin SOUND EDITING FOR A COMEDY OR DRAMA SERIES (HALF-HOUR) The Studio
SOUND EDITING FOR AN ANIMATED PROGRAM Arcane
SOUND MIXING FOR A LIMITED OR ANTHOLOGY SERIES OR MOVIE The Penguin
Nollywood, Nigeria’s film industry, has grown from grassroots video productions into one of the world’s largest film powerhouses. With thousands of releases every year, Nollywood tells stories that blend culture, history, comedy, and drama. But a few films stand out as milestones; either for their artistry, commercial impact, or influence on the industry. Below is a ranking of the 10 greatest Nollywood movies of all time, alongside an explanation of how the ranking was determined.
The Ranking
1. Living in Bondage (1992)
Widely regarded as the film that launched Nollywood’s video boom, it tells the story of a man who joins a secret cult in search of wealth, only to suffer tragic consequences. Its success marked a turning point for Nigerian cinema.
Summary: The film tells the story of Andy Okeke, who is lured into a money ritual cult. Though he becomes wealthy, the spiritual consequences destroy his life, leaving a cautionary legacy. It was a cultural reset that birthed Nollywood.
2. Osuofia in London (2003)
This comedy starring Nkem Owoh remains one of Nollywood’s most iconic films. It follows a naive villager who travels to London to claim an inheritance, blending Nigerian humor with cross-cultural themes.
Summary: Osuofia, a villager, travels to London to inherit his late brother’s property. His naive outlook collides with Western culture, creating comedic situations and showing the humor in cultural clashes.
3. The Figurine (2009)
Directed by Kunle Afolayan, this psychological thriller won multiple African Movie Academy Awards. It is praised for its strong storytelling, cinematography, and for raising Nollywood’s technical standards.
Summary: Friends discover a mystical statue said to bring seven years of fortune, followed by seven years of doom. Their lives spiral as destiny, superstition, and human choices collide in this thriller.
4. Half of a Yellow Sun (2013)
Based on Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie’s acclaimed novel, this historical drama explores love and loss during the Nigerian Civil War. With international stars like Chiwetel Ejiofor and Thandie Newton, it brought global attention to Nollywood storytelling.
Summary: Set during the Nigerian Civil War, the story follows twin sisters Olanna and Kainene as they navigate love, betrayal, and survival. It brings the human side of war to the big screen.
5. October 1 (2014)
Set just before Nigeria’s independence, Kunle Afolayan’s thriller follows a detective solving murders in a small town. It is both a gripping crime story and a reflection on colonial legacies.
Summary: A police detective from Lagos is sent to a rural town to solve a series of murders just before independence. As he uncovers the truth, the film explores themes of trauma, colonialism, and national identity.
6. The Wedding Party (2016)
A romantic comedy that became Nigeria’s highest-grossing film at the time, grossing over ₦452 million. It captured the glamour, chaos, and humor of Nigerian weddings with mass audience appeal.
Summary: On the day of a high-society Nigerian wedding, chaos ensues as families clash, secrets spill, and love is tested. It’s a glamorous rom-com filled with laughter and cultural celebration.
7. The Wedding Party 2: Destination Dubai (2017)
The sequel continued the success, this time set in Dubai. It reinforced Nollywood’s ability to deliver commercially successful, star-studded productions.
Summary: Picking up from the first film, this sequel follows a lavish wedding in Dubai. With drama, comedy, and exotic settings, it continues the spectacle that made the first movie a hit.
8. Chief Daddy (2018)
A family comedy about the chaos that follows a wealthy man’s death. With a star-studded cast, it was another major box office hit, earning about ₦387 million.
Summary: When a wealthy patriarch dies, his dysfunctional family scrambles to secure their inheritance. The film is a blend of humor and family drama, showing the chaos money leaves behind.
9. King of Boys (2018)
Directed by Kemi Adetiba, this political thriller follows a powerful woman navigating corruption and ambition. It received widespread acclaim for its storytelling and powerhouse performance by Sola Sobowale.
Summary: Eniola Salami, a powerful businesswoman with political ambitions, struggles to hold onto power. Betrayals, rivalries, and her own ruthlessness drive this intense political thriller.
10. Eyimofe (2020)
An internationally acclaimed drama that portrays everyday Lagosians striving for better lives. It premiered at the Berlin International Film Festival and became the first Nigerian film added to The Criterion Collection.
Summary: Split into two chapters ‘This is My Desire’ and ‘This is My Story’ the film follows Mofe, an engineer, and Rosa, a hairdresser. Both dream of leaving Nigeria for a better life, but face harsh realities of class and survival.
How This Ranking Was Done
This ranking was not based solely on box office numbers or popularity. Instead, it considered four main factors:
Historical Significance: Films that shaped Nollywood’s identity or marked a turning point in the industry.
Critical Acclaim & Awards: Recognition from film critics, African Movie Academy Awards, and international festivals.
Box Office Success & Popularity: Movies that broke records or captured mass audiences.
Cultural Impact & Longevity: Titles that influenced pop culture, inspired conversations, or remain classics.
By balancing these factors, this list highlights films that not only entertained but also elevated Nollywood’s reputation globally.
Nollywood continues to evolve, moving from grassroots productions to globally recognized cinema. The films on this list represent milestones in that journey whether through breaking box office records, winning international acclaim, or shaping cultural conversations. As Nollywood grows, future films may join or even surpass these greats, but their legacy will always remain part of Nigeria’s cinematic history.
Peacock has officially announced that Bel-Air will return for its fourth and final season on Monday, November 24, 2025, marking the end of a groundbreaking reimagining of the classic sitcom The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air.
The streaming service revealed that the season will consist of eight episodes, delivering the final chapter of the dramatic series that has captivated audiences since its debut in 2022.
Created as a dramatic retelling of the 1990s comedy, Bel-Air reintroduced fans to Will Smith’s iconic story; a teenager from West Philadelphia sent to live with his wealthy relatives in Bel-Air after a run-in back home. Unlike its predecessor, the series took a darker, more grounded approach, exploring class, identity, race, and family dynamics in modern America.
Over three seasons, Bel-Air has earned critical acclaim for its ambitious storytelling and strong performances, particularly from Jabari Banks, who stepped into the role of Will, and Cassandra Freeman, who portrays Aunt Viv. The show has been praised for balancing nostalgia with fresh perspectives, making it both familiar and boldly original.
What to Expect in Season Four
While Peacock has not revealed full plot details, the final season promises to bring resolution to lingering conflicts among the Banks family, Will, and his friends. With only eight episodes to conclude the story, fans can expect high-stakes drama and emotional payoffs.
NBC Insider described the upcoming season as the “final chapter” of the series, hinting at a powerful conclusion to Will’s journey from West Philly to Bel-Air.
As the countdown begins, fans will be eager to see how Bel-Air closes its story and whether Will’s journey will end with the same sense of hope and resilience that made the original Fresh Prince unforgettable.
Pop superstar Justin Bieber has surprised fans yet again with the unexpected release of his eighth studio album, Swag II, on September 5, 2025. The project arrives less than two months after the launch of his previous album Swag, signaling one of the fastest turnarounds between albums in his career.
A Surprise Rollout
The album was announced in typical Bieber fashion; with cryptic billboards lighting up major cities including New York, London, Seoul, and Sydney, followed by a social media reveal just hours before release. However, some fans reported brief delays on streaming platforms, with the album appearing several hours later than its scheduled midnight debut.
Despite the hiccups, the rollout generated massive buzz online, amplified by the album’s striking pastel-pink cover art and a matching capsule collection from Bieber’s clothing brand SKYLRK.
A Double Album with 44 Tracks
Swag II arrives as a double album, featuring 23 brand-new songs alongside the 21 tracks from Swag. Together, the project runs for more than two hours, offering fans a marathon of Bieber’s evolving sound.
While Swag leaned heavily into R&B textures, its sequel embraces a more pop-oriented direction. Bieber’s vocal performances shift from soulful ballads to high-energy anthems, showing both his versatility and confidence as a performer.
Collaborations Across Genres
The new record is loaded with star-studded collaborations:
Tems brings her soulful Afro-fusion touch to “I THINK YOU’RE SPECIAL”.
Hurricane Chris injects Southern flair into “POPPIN’ MY S***”.
Eddie Benjamin delivers one of the most intimate moments on “OPEN UP YOUR HEART”.
Gunna, Cash Cobain, Bakar, Druski, Sexyy Red, Dijon, Lil B, and Marvin Winans all make appearances across various tracks.
The album’s production credits are equally diverse, with names like Mike Will Made It, Carter Lang, Dijon, Mk.gee, and Buddy Ross shaping its eclectic sound.
Beyond its collaborations, Swag II reflects Bieber’s current life stage; balancing global superstardom with his journey into fatherhood and self-discovery. Many songs highlight themes of intimacy, healing, and creative rebirth, contrasting with the swagger-heavy energy of its predecessor.
Despite release delays on certain platforms, Swag II is already climbing the charts and sparking discussions across social media.
Key Fact Box:
Artist: Justin Bieber
Album: Swag II
Release Date: September 5, 2025
Format: Double album (44 tracks, 2 hrs 11 mins)
Notable Features: Tems, Gunna, Bakar, Hurricane Chris, Eddie Benjamin, Sexyy Red
The Nigerian film industry is about to make history with the release of its first-ever full-length 3D animated musical, Gammy and the Living Things. Produced by Utricle Studios and distributed by FilmOne Entertainment, the landmark project will debut in cinemas nationwide on September 5, 2025, setting a new standard for local animation and storytelling.
The film follows Gammy, a redhead agama lizard with big dreams of becoming a music superstar. Determined to “blow,” he leaves his small town and embarks on a thrilling adventure to Lagos, the cultural capital of Nigeria. His journey blends humor, ambition, and self-discovery with electrifying music, dance, and unmistakable Naija energy.
Star-Studded Voice Cast
Adding depth and personality to the characters is an impressive lineup of Nigerian stars. Hip-hop legend Jude “MI” Abaga voices Gammy, while veteran actors Pete Edochie and Joke Silva bring their iconic voices to key roles. Popular comedian Bovi Ugboma and other well-known talents also feature in the cast, making it one of the most star-studded animated films in Nollywood history.
Industry Recognition and Anticipation
Even before its official release, Gammy and the Living Things has been praised as a milestone achievement. A private screening in Lagos in 2023, attended by then–Vice President Yemi Osinbajo, drew acclaim for its creative ambition and cultural relevance. Film analysts have described it as a defining moment for Nigerian animation, with the potential to open doors for more African stories told through world-class animated formats.
Beyond its musical spectacle, the film celebrates Nigerian creativity and resilience. Its use of popular Naija hits, energetic dance sequences, and familiar cultural expressions promises to resonate deeply with local audiences while also appealing to international viewers curious about African animation.
A New Era for Nollywood Animation
The release of Gammy and the Living Things signals more than just another movie premiere; it represents the coming of age of Nigerian animation. With Utricle Studios leading production and FilmOne Entertainment ensuring widespread distribution, the project is positioned to redefine how Nollywood is perceived globally.
Audiences across Nigeria can look forward to experiencing this historic production when it premieres in cinemas on September 5, 2025.
Cardi B has gone viral after a heated moment with a reporter. The Grammy-winning rapper was caught on camera throwing a pen at a journalist who subtly asked about the paternity of her rumored pregnancy.
The exchange happened outside a Los Angeles courthouse, where Cardi was leaving a hearing related to her assault trial. The reporter shouted:
Reporter: “Cardi, insiders are claiming that Offset is publicly bragging about getting you pregnant for the fourth time. Do you foresee any paternity issues with Stefon Diggs?”
The question struck a nerve. Cardi B reacted by throwing the marker she was holding at the reporter and sharply responded:
The reporter, attempting to defuse the tension, replied:
Reporter: “I still love you even though you just threw some stuff at me.”
Cardi B: “I don’t care. You’re disrespectful. Don’t do that. Do you see women asking those types of questions of me? Why do you, as a man, feel you get to ask me those types of questions? Act like you have some manners. Your momma taught you—respect women.”
As she walked away, she turned back to address the press pack, warning them about future access:
Cardi B: “Y’all are not going to see me after that, and you can thank him. I’m not playing around. I was very nice, I was very kind… Nobody’s going to get that no more.”
Fans React to Cardi B’s Outburst
The viral video has sparked divided opinions online. Many of Cardi B’s fans defended her response, arguing that questions about her alleged pregnancy cross personal boundaries. Others, however, felt the reaction was too extreme for a press event.
On social media, some users applauded her for standing her ground: “People need to respect boundaries. She’s not obligated to share everything.” “The media always pushes too far, and Cardi just snapped.”
Meanwhile, critics said the rapper could have handled the situation without escalating it “Reporters ask tough questions. Throwing things isn’t the answer.”
Benny Safdie’s The Smashing Machine debuted at the Venice Film Festival on September 1, 2025, and immediately set the tone as one of the most talked-about premieres of the year. Produced by A24, Seven Bucks Productions, and Out for the Count, the film adapts the turbulent real life of MMA pioneer Mark Kerr, who rose to fame in the late 1990s UFC era.
Dwayne Johnson takes on the role of Kerr in what critics are calling a career-defining performance. Shedding his Hollywood action-hero persona, Johnson undergoes a drastic physical transformation with the help of prosthetics and weight loss, and delivers a raw, vulnerable portrayal of an athlete both celebrated and broken. Opposite him, Emily Blunt stars as Dawn Staples-Kerr, Kerr’s on-again, off-again partner, whose presence anchors the emotional core of the narrative.
Shot partly on 16mm and 70mm IMAX film, Safdie crafts an unflinching, almost documentary-like vision of Kerr’s world, weaving together the adrenaline of the cage, the dark spiral of opioid addiction, and the fragility of his personal relationships. The film received a 15-minute standing ovation in Venice, leaving Johnson in tears, and has already sparked early Oscar buzz for both him and Blunt.
Theatrical release is set for October 3, 2025 worldwide.
Review: A Raw and Unrecognizable Rock
The Smashing Machine is not just another sports biopic; it’s a study of pain, masculinity, and survival. Safdie, known for his frenetic realism in Uncut Gems, strips away the gloss of UFC spectacle to show the body and mind of an athlete consumed by both triumph and trauma.
Johnson’s transformation is the film’s revelation. For perhaps the first time in his career, he disappears into a role. His Mark Kerr is not “The Rock” the entertainer, but a man burdened by pressure, numbed by painkillers, and desperate to keep love alive while battling his own self-destruction. Johnson is bruised, bloated, fragile and utterly convincing.
Emily Blunt is equally compelling. As Dawn, she brings empathy and sharp edges, refusing to be a one-note “supportive partner.” Their volatile relationship carries the film’s emotional weight, often more gripping than the fights themselves.
Dwayne Johnson reveals he now focus on more than just Box Office numbers:
"Hollywood has become about box-office. Chasing that can push you into a corner. I understood that, and I made those movies, and I liked them. Some did really well, some not so good. But I kept thinking… pic.twitter.com/O5mRVeupWw
Stylistically, Safdie opts for a grainy, immersive aesthetic—blood, sweat, and needle marks are shown with uncomfortable intimacy. The fight sequences aren’t staged as crowd-pleasers; they’re brutal, exhausting, and at times difficult to watch, underscoring the toll on Kerr’s body and psyche.
At its best, The Smashing Machine recalls Raging Bull and The Wrestler but instead of glamorizing combat, it portrays the UFC’s early days as chaotic, lawless, and exploitative. Safdie’s pacing occasionally lingers too long on Kerr’s spirals, but this indulgence also mirrors the suffocating cycle of addiction.
The Smashing Machine is a career reset for Dwayne Johnson, a role that proves he can be more than a blockbuster icon. Benny Safdie delivers a film that is brutal, tender, and unrelenting in its honesty. It’s not a movie about winning fights; it’s a movie about losing oneself, and maybe clawing back fragments of humanity along the way.
Hip-hop in the 21st century has been defined not only by artistry but also by commercial dominance, Billboard chart records, streaming power, and cultural influence. To capture this fully, the following; chart performance, longevity, commercial reach, and global impact; while keeping the focus squarely on hip-hop.
1. Drake
Drake stands as the undisputed leader of 21st-century hip-hop. His Billboard chart dominance is unmatched, holding the record for the most Billboard Hot 100 entries and numerous R&B/Hip-Hop chart milestones. Albums such as Take Care, Views, Scorpion, and Certified Lover Boy broke streaming records and produced anthems that defined entire eras. Beyond the numbers, Drake’s ability to merge rap with R&B and pop melodies reshaped hip-hop into the most accessible genre of modern music. His global tours and collaborations have only reinforced his status as the most commercially successful rapper of this century.
2. Jay-Z
Jay-Z’s career began before the 21st century, but his influence and dominance extended deeply into it. The Blueprint (2001) and The Black Album (2003) are benchmarks in rap history, while 4:44 proved his relevance well into his late career. His Billboard credentials include 14 No. 1 albums on the Billboard 200, making him one of the most charted rappers of all time. More than just a musician, Jay-Z set the template for hip-hop as enterprise, showing how artistry, business, and cultural leadership can intersect. His impact resonates through music, fashion, and even sports ownership.
3. Eminem
Eminem remains one of the best-selling rappers ever, with multiple diamond-certified albums. The Eminem Show and Encore dominated the early 2000s, while songs like “Lose Yourself” and “Love the Way You Lie” became cultural fixtures. Billboard numbers back his legacy—he has over 10 No. 1 albums and numerous chart-topping singles. While his commercial dominance slowed in the 2020s, his legacy as a lyrical giant and crossover superstar secures his place in the upper echelon of 21st-century hip-hop.
4. Kanye West
Kanye West’s legacy is built on both chart success and innovation. The College Dropout (2004) shifted rap’s narrative, while Graduation (2007) marked his global rise. 808s & Heartbreak reshaped rap’s emotional language, and My Beautiful Dark Twisted Fantasy is widely considered a masterpiece. His 10 Billboard 200 No. 1 albums and cultural influence across music, fashion, and art make him an essential 21st-century figure. Despite controversies, his artistic contributions remain undeniable.
5. Lil Wayne
Lil Wayne dominated the mid-to-late 2000s with his relentless mixtape output and the Tha Carter album series. At his peak, Wayne was releasing music that saturated Billboard charts and influenced nearly every rapper who came after him. His role in discovering and mentoring Drake and Nicki Minaj through Young Money cemented his importance in shaping the next generation. With Grammy wins, countless Billboard hits, and unmatched influence on modern rap slang and flows, Wayne’s legacy is undeniable.
6. Kendrick Lamar
Kendrick Lamar represents the bridge between commercial success and critical acclaim. While he does not match Drake in Billboard chart numbers, his albums (good kid, m.A.A.d city, To Pimp a Butterfly, DAMN.) are regarded as cultural landmarks. DAMN. even earned him the Pulitzer Prize, the first for a rapper. His singles such as “HUMBLE.” and “Alright” are both Billboard successes and cultural touchstones. Kendrick’s ability to balance mainstream success with social commentary makes him a unique figure in 21st-century hip-hop.
7. Nicki Minaj
Nicki Minaj is the most successful female rapper of all time, both commercially and culturally. Her Billboard stats include dozens of Hot 100 entries and multiple No. 1 singles. Beyond numbers, she broke barriers for women in hip-hop, sustaining dominance in a male-dominated space for more than a decade. Her albums (Pink Friday, The Pinkprint, Queen) brought her global fame, and her persona influenced an entire generation of rappers. Nicki’s combination of lyrical skill, mainstream success, and cultural imprint places her firmly in this ranking.
8. Future
Future reshaped trap music into a dominant sound of the 2010s. His Billboard presence is substantial, with multiple No. 1 albums and Hot 100 hits. Albums like DS2 and HNDRXX defined modern trap, while collaborations with Drake (What a Time to Be Alive) expanded his reach. Future’s influence is clear in the melodic, auto-tuned style adopted by today’s rising rappers. His consistency across mixtapes, albums, and collaborations solidifies him as one of the most important hip-hop voices of this century.
9. J. Cole
J. Cole embodies the self-sufficient rapper, often producing his own work and rarely relying on guest features. Despite this, he has achieved remarkable Billboard success, with every studio album debuting at No. 1 on the Billboard 200. Albums like 2014 Forest Hills Drive and KOD resonate both commercially and critically, making him a rare figure who balances introspection with chart performance. His “platinum with no features” narrative underscores his unique place in hip-hop history.
10. Travis Scott
Travis Scott brought spectacle to modern hip-hop. His Billboard breakthrough came with Astroworld (2018), which included “Sicko Mode,” his first Hot 100 No. 1 single. His live performances, particularly the Astroworld Festival, redefined hip-hop shows as immersive experiences. Scott’s collaborations with Nike and his influence on fashion and youth culture expand his cultural dominance beyond music. While his career is still evolving, his chart presence and cultural influence secure him a spot in this top 10.
This ranking reflects the dual lens of Billboard-inspired metrics; chart performance, longevity, and commercial power, combined with artistry and cultural significance. These 10 artists shaped the 21st-century hip-hop landscape, and their impact continues to define the genre globally.
When fans attend a Wizkid concert, they don’t just go for the music, they go for the energy, the vibes, and the unforgettable moments. One of those moments, which has become a near-trademark for the Nigerian superstar, is his now-famous water-splashing ritual. Whether it’s a festival stage in Europe or an intimate Lagos crowd, Wizkid often grabs a bottle of water, showers the audience, and sends the crowd into a frenzy.
But why has this small act become such a big deal? Let’s dive in.
A Festival Highlight Turned Signature Move
The “water moment” gained major attention during Oya Festival 2023 in Oslo, Norway. In the middle of his set, performing hits like Fever, Samba, and Joro, Wizkid grabbed a water bottle and playfully sprayed the crowd. Fans screamed, phones flew in the air, and suddenly what seemed like a random act became one of the festival’s most replayed highlights online.
Clips of Wizkid splashing water circulated across Instagram, TikTok, and Twitter, with fans hailing it as peak “Big Wiz energy.”
For many fans, it’s not just water; it’s connection. In a concert world often dominated by pyrotechnics, giant screens, and choreographed dancers, Wizkid’s spontaneous gesture feels raw and personal.
Symbol of freedom: Splashing water can be said to capture the carefree, party spirit that Afrobeats represents.
A badge of experience: For fans, being in the splash zone is proof of “I was really there kinda feeling”
Online virality: Short clips of the splash moments trend easily, adding to Wizkid’s festival legacy.
And maybe, just maybe, the water is more than a playful sprinkle—it’s a baptism into the energy of Afrobeats.
After five years away from her last album release, Tiwa Savage returns with This One Is Personal; a 15-track body of work that pulls her away from Afropop dominance into a stripped-down, deeply vulnerable space. Where 2020’s Celia was bold, global, and radio-ready, This One Is Personal feels like the diary entries Tiwa never intended to share but bravely did anyway.
Sound & Atmosphere
The first thing you notice is what’s missing: the high-energy beats that once powered hits like “All Over” or “Ma Lo.” Instead, the production here is minimal, at times skeletal—pianos, soft percussion, and spacious R&B backdrops.
This shift is deliberate. On “I’m Done,” the piano feels like a stage light focused solely on her voice. “You4Me” reworks Tamia’s So Into You into a breezy Afrobeats-R&B hybrid. “On the Low” carries a smoky sensuality, its Afro-groove subdued to make room for Skepta’s rap.
It’s intimate, yes but also risky. The quieter sound creates room for her voice to shine, but it also strips away some of the dynamism that made her previous projects more versatile. For some listeners, the pacing may drag after a few tracks, as the emotional weight leans heavily toward sorrow and reflection.
Themes & Storytelling
Tiwa promised vulnerability, and she delivers. The lyrics carry raw honesty, often exposing cracks instead of polishing them over.
Toxic Love: “Angel Dust” paints love as an addiction, seductive but destructive.
Heartbreak & Bitterness: “You’re Not the First (You’re Just the Worst)” might be her bluntest song yet, sharp, even petty, but undeniably human.
Faith & Spirituality: On “Change,” featuring James Fauntleroy, romantic yearning blurs into a conversation with God—a rare pivot that elevates the record’s depth.
Emotional Fatigue: “Pray No More” feels like a sigh of exhaustion, a prayer from someone tired of constant battles.
The narrative arc is heavy: heartbreak, disillusionment, attempts at healing. It’s moving but narrow. One missing element is contrast; there are few bright or hopeful moments to balance the melancholy.
Collaborations That Complement
One of the album’s smartest choices is restraint with features. Skepta’s appearance on “On the Low” feels organic, adding grit without stealing attention. Rising star Taves fits seamlessly into “Addicted.” James Fauntleroy on “Change” provides the record’s spiritual climax.
In an era of feature-stuffed albums, this discipline gives This One Is Personal cohesion. Every guest feels like part of the story, not a marketing checklist.
What Works
Honesty: This is Tiwa at her most unguarded. She doesn’t hide behind pop gloss.
Cohesion: The album feels like one body of work, not a random playlist.
Intentional Features: Skepta, Taves, and Fauntleroy serve the music, not the hype.
What Doesn’t
Pacing: The mid-tempo mood rarely shifts, making some tracks blur together.
Limited Emotional Range: Almost all songs sit in heartbreak and reflection. A moment of joy or defiance would have added balance.
Commercial Appeal: Fans wanting another “Koroba” will find little to dance to here.
This One Is Personal is not a flawless album, but it’s a brave one. Tiwa Savage steps away from her comfort zone, risking commercial momentum to reveal her humanity. The result is a project that may not dominate charts but will resonate with those who crave authenticity in music.
It’s a record for headphones, quiet car rides, and solitary nights—not for the club. And maybe that’s the point.
