Category: Entertainment

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

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

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

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

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

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

On Her Present Mindset:

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

When asked if she’ll tour again:

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

“I’m so happy up here guys.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

To enjoy Dimimu latest track, click this link.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

— Davido (@davido) April 19, 2024

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

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

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

Wahala’ is available on all streaming platforms; listen here

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

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

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

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A post shared by Instablog9ja (@instablog9ja)

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

Veteran Nollywood actor Kanayo O Kanayo has shared his voice with new and blooming Nollywood actors who have delved into skit-making.

He shared his voice via a post shared on his official Instagram.

He warns against ‘one-day shooting,’ its health impact, its cost, and its relevance. He fears the art of YouTube skit-making will become unsustainable as actors will overwork themselves.

He said;

‘’This past midnight I sat back and watched the opportunities offered by the YouTube channel a very good platform but unfortunately like anything that comes to Nigeria, people jump in and try to mess it up. I watched with dismay and I made this video out of no malice for anybody. It’s been messed up by different things, especially the actors that are doing it.

The whole irony of one day shoot is not sustainable. Some of them now make it so difficult for producers and tell you one day shoot is 1 million to 1.5 million one day shoot.nfortunately my very high-standing colleague who started this one-day shoot go and ask him, unfortunately, he’s not in good health.

We built Nollywood, brick by brick, block by block but the guys who have besieged YouTube, the actors not the producers, do not have any sense of purpose or process to create a procedure for a lasting videography or creating content. Take for instance, the whole irony of one-day shoot. It is not sustainable. Some of them now make it so difficult for producers. They tell you one day shoot is N1 million or N1.5 million. It isn’t sustainable. Unfortunately, my very high standing colleague who started this one-day shoot is unfortunately not in good health. Why? I know for everyone who gives you a job, they want it done. They pack you with enough to finish in one day. Thirty scenes, thirty-five scenes..Most of you think you are enjoying ‘I am fully booked for the next six months’ but your health…I hope you enjoy good health like those of us who started 38 years ago because what you are doing is not sustainable.

I bear you no malice. Earn all your money but the disservice you are doing to professionalism is not going to last long and the way I see it. YouTube is not going to last long in Nigeria as a platform.”

Watch the video below:

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A post shared by Kanayo O Kanayo (@kanayo.o.kanayo)

Tunde Onakoya is a name well known for his mastery in the realm of chess, not just in Nigeria but also on the international stage. Founder of Chess in Slums Africa. He has organized a number of interventions programs for children across slums across Lagos in places like, Ikorodu, Makoko and recently, Oshodi.

Early Life and Passion

Tunde Onakoya was born on 6th October, 1994 aged 29, in Ikorodu , Lagos Nigeria. He has a diploma in computer science from Yaba College of Technology where he was a gold medalist who represented the school in Nigeria Polytechnic Games and also at the RCCG Chess Championship.He is also a board member of the New York City-based non-profit The Gift of Chess.

With a passion for the game that ignited in his early years, Onakoya’s journey to becoming a chess master is one marked by dedication, perseverance, and a relentless pursuit of greatness.

Though from a humble beginning, hence his popular saying “It is possible to do great things from a small place” Tunde Onakoya discovered his love for chess at a tender age. Encouraged by supportive family members and mentors, Onakoya honed his skills through hours of practice and study, laying the foundation for his future success.

Rise to Prominence in Nigerian Chess

As Onakoya’s proficiency in chess grew, so did his reputation within the Nigerian chess community. His strategic brilliance and unwavering determination propelled him to the forefront of national competitions, where he consistently demonstrated his prowess against formidable opponents. With each victory, Onakoya solidified his status as a rising star in Nigerian chess circles, inspiring admiration and respect among his peers.

Onakoya’s journey to mastery reached new heights as he began to compete on the international stage. Representing Nigeria with pride and distinction, he showcased his exceptional talent in various prestigious tournaments across the globe.

Beyond his individual achievements, Onakoya has made significant contributions to the growth and development of chess in Nigeria. Through coaching, mentoring, and grassroots initiatives, he seeks to inspire the next generation of chess enthusiasts and nurture talent within the country.

Guinness World Record

Tunde Onakoya is currently trying to break the Guinness world record for the longest chess marathon. He is playing his games in the open air in Manhattan. This is a great achievement for him as well as his country Nigeria. With much support from supporters in and outside the country, Tunde Onakoya is still riding strong in his attempt to break this record.

On the 17th of April 2024, I will attempt to break the Guiness World record for the longest Chess marathon in the heart of Times Square New York City for 58 hours without losing a game.
Doing this for the dreams of millions of children across Africa without access to education. pic.twitter.com/MlGm7Mvmmd

— Tunde Onakoya (@Tunde_OD) April 12, 2024

Updates from the Game

American singer Ashanti and rapper Nelly are confirmed to be expecting a child together.

The 43-year-old singer announced her pregnancy alongside her engagement to 49-year-old Nelly in an interview with Essence.

In a video shared on her Instagram, Ashati was asked by her mom, Tina Douglas, how much time she needed to be ready for her performance. Her response was, “Uh, I’m going to need about nine months.”

See the video below:

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A post shared by Ashanti (@ashanti)

“This new year of my life is such a blessing full of love, hope, and anticipation,” she told the magazine, “Motherhood is something that I have looked forward to, and sharing this with my family, fiancé, and loyal fans, who have been so supportive of my career, is an amazing experience.”

Aside from Ashanti, Nelly has two adult children, Chanelle, 30, and Cornell Haynes III, 25, with his ex-Channetta Valentine. Nelly also adopted his niece and nephew, Shawn and Sydney Thomas, following the death of his sister, Jackie Donahue.

In September, Nelly confirmed the couple was back together during an appearance on the Boss Moves with Rasheeda show. “It wasn’t anything that we planned. We both were pretty much doing what we do,” he explained. “But sometimes, being separate, you understand one another more. You could be like, ‘Well yo, let me exactly see maybe what they see.’ We all can be defensive sometimes in our own relationships. We know we wrong but we going to stand on it, you know what I mean? But we all a victim to that.”