Asake Brings High-Energy ‘In God We Trust’ Tour to Sold-Out Toronto Show

Asake brought his ‘In God We Trust’ World Tour to Toronto on Saturday, August 22, delivering a high-energy Afrobeats spectacle to a sold-out crowd at Scotiabank Arena.

The Nigerian star commanded the arena with an explosive performance packed with live instrumentation, striking LED visuals, stage smoke, energetic choreography and loud sing-alongs from thousands of fans.

The atmosphere intensified throughout the night as fans lit up the arena with their phone flashlights, creating a sea of lights while Asake moved through some of the biggest records in his catalogue.

Asake kept the energy high with performances of several fan favorites, including “Lonely At The Top,” “Forgiveness,” “Remember,” “Chanel,” “Mr. Money With The Vibe,” “Why Love,” “Asambe,” “Worship,” “EGO” and “OBA.”

“Chanel,” his collaboration with Blaqbonez, also received a huge reaction, with the Toronto audience singing along despite the featured artist not being present.

“Lonely At The Top” and “Skilful” were among the other standout moments, with fans heavily involved in the performances and Asake interacting with the crowd throughout the night.

With a sold-out Scotiabank Arena show following his North American tour dates, the ‘In God We Trust’ World Tour continues to demonstrate the international reach of Afrobeats and Asake’s growing arena level audience.

Uncle Waffles opened the Toronto show before Asake took the stage, with the tour continuing across Canada and the United States. 

BET Awards 2026 Nominations: Tyla, Tems, Wizkid & Asake On Global Music Recognition

The BET Awards 2026 nominations are officially out, and this year’s list is shaping up to be one of the most globally competitive editions yet, with African stars once again making a strong impact across key categories.

From viral visuals to chart dominating collaborations, the nominations reflect a music landscape where Afrobeats, R&B, and hip-hop continue to collide on a worldwide stage.

Nigeria continues its steady dominance on the BET stage.

BET Awards 2026 Full Nominations

VIDEO OF THE YEAR

Ella Mai — 100
Doechii — Anxiety
Mariah the Scientist — Burning Blue
Tyla — CHANEL
Teyana Taylor — Escape Room (Short Film)
Kehlani — Folded
T.I. — Let ’Em Know
Kendrick Lamar & SZA — Luther

ALBUM OF THE YEAR

Am I The Drama? — Cardi B
Don’t Tap The Glass — Artist TBC
everything is a lot. — Artist TBC
Hearts Sold Separately — Artist TBC
Let God Sort Em Out — Clipse
Mutt Deluxe: Heel — Artist TBC
The Fall-Off — J. Cole
The Romantic — Artist TBC

BEST FEMALE R&B / POP ARTIST

SZA
Tems
Ari Lennox
Coco Jones
Ella Mai
Jill Scott
Kehlani
Mariah the Scientist
Olivia Dean

BEST MALE R&B / POP ARTIST

Chris Brown
Usher
Bruno Mars
Bryson Tiller
Brent Faiyaz
Giveon
Leon Thomas
October London
Durand Bernarr
BEST FEMALE HIP HOP ARTIST

Cardi B
Doja Cat
Megan Thee Stallion
Latto
GloRilla
Doechii
Coi Leray
Sexyy Red

BEST MALE HIP HOP ARTIST

Drake
J. Cole
Kendrick Lamar
A$AP Rocky
Baby Keem
Don Toliver
DaBaby
BigXthaPlug
T.I.

BEST GROUP

Wizkid & Asake
Nas & DJ Premier
Metro Boomin & DJ Spinz
French Montana & Max B
Clipse
De La Soul
FLO
Terrace Martin & Kenyon Dixon
41

BEST COLLABORATION

Gunna ft. Burna Boy — WGFT
Mariah the Scientist & Kali Uchis — Is It a Crime
Chris Brown ft. Bryson Tiller & Usher — It Depends (Remix)
Baby Keem ft. Kendrick Lamar — Good Flirts
Metro Boomin ft. Quavo, YK Niece & DJ Spinz — Take Me Thru Dere

VIEWER’S CHOICE AWARD

Drake — NOKIA
Chris Brown — Residuals
Doechii — Anxiety
Dave ft. Tems — Raindance
GELO — Tweaker
Pluto & YK Niece — Whim Whamiee

BET HER AWARD

Tems — First
Beyoncé — Blackbiird
Summer Walker — Heart of a Woman
Mary J. Blige — Beautiful People
Doechii — Bloom

BEST NEW ARTIST

Leon Thomas
Mariah the Scientist
Olivia Dean
GELO
Breskii
YK Niece

Seyi Vibez Emerges Nigeria’s Most Streamed Artist in Q1 2026 With 547 Million Streams

Nigerian music star Seyi Vibez has emerged as the most streamed artist in Nigeria for the first quarter of 2026, recording an impressive 547 million streams according to data released byTurnTable Charts. 

The achievement places him ahead of fellow Afrobeats heavyweights Asake and Wizkid, who closely followed behind in the rankings with 542 million and 531 million streams respectively. 

According to the Q1 2026 chart released by TurnTable Charts, here are the top 20 most streamed artists in Nigeria:

Seyi Vibez — 547M
Asake — 542M
Wizkid — 531M
FOLA — 475M
Mavo — 305M
Burna Boy — 223M
Rema — 217M
Young Jonn — 212M
Davido — 205M
Omah Lay — 201M
BNXN — 199M
Odumodublvck — 192M
Shallipopi — 156M
Gunna — 127M
Olamide — 122M
Bella Shmurda — 118M
DJ Tunez — 112M
Tml Vibez — 101.4M
Shoday — 101.0M
Ayra Starr — 100M

The ranking reflects the increasing impact of streaming culture in Nigeria’s music industry, with both established stars and rising acts posting massive numbers in the opening months of the year. Artists like FOLA, Mavo, Tml Vibez, and Shoday were among the rising breakout names on the list, a shift in listener preferences and the growing appetite for new generation street and Afrobeats sounds.

Fireboy DML’s Playboy Album Hits 1 Billion Streams on Spotify

Fireboy DML has reached another career defining milestone, as his third studio album Playboy officially surpasses 1 billion streams on Spotify.

Released in 2022, Playboy represented a shift, a more assured, internationally aware version of Fireboy, without losing the melodic identity that first set him apart. It was an album built on intention.

Standout tracks like “Bandana” featuring Asake and the global hit “Peru” boosted further by its remix with Ed Sheeran, played a central role in the album’s worldwide reach. But beyond the hits, Playboy has thrived on consistency, with multiple tracks contributing to its steady rise in streams.

Now, it joins one of the most exclusive benchmarks in Nigerian music today.

Nigerian Projects With Over 1 Billion Spotify Streams

The billion-stream mark has increasingly become a measure of global impact for Nigerian artists. With Playboy crossing that threshold, it now sits alongside some of the most successful Afrobeats projects of the streaming era:

Rave & Roses (Ultra) — 3.26B (Rema)
Love, Damini — 1.59B (Burna Boy)
The Year I Turned 21 — 1.3B (Ayra Starr)
Boy Alone (Deluxe) — 1.3B (Omah Lay)
African Giant — 1.24B (Burna Boy)
Made in Lagos (Deluxe) — 1.16B (Wizkid)
CKay The First (EP) — 1.04B (CKay)

Unlike projects driven purely by viral moments, Playboy success has been gradual and sustained. More broadly, the growing number of Nigerian projects hitting this mark underscores a larger shift which is becoming a norm in the Nigerian music industry. 

Wizkid & Asake’s REAL, Vol. 1 Debuts at No. 6 on Billboard World Albums Chart

When Wizkid and Asake announced REAL, Vol. 1, expectations were immediate and well anticipated. The collaboration brought together two artists operating at different but equally powerful ends of Afrobeats’ global spectrum; one a decade-long international force, the other one of the most dominant Nigerian hitmakers of the 2020s.

REAL, Vol. 1 has debuted at No. 6 on the Billboard World Albums chart, marking a major global chart moment for the joint EP and reinforcing Afrobeats’ sustained presence on international rankings.

The Billboard World Albums chart tracks the strongest-performing international projects in the United States each week. A Top 10 debut is significant particularly for a short collaborative EP because it reflects not only streaming traction, but real market penetration in one of music’s most competitive territories.

For REAL, Vol. 1 to open at No. 6 places it among the most successful African releases on the chart this year, and highlights the continued global appetite for Nigerian music beyond singles and playlist placements.

Rather than chasing crossover aesthetics, the project leans confidently into its Afrobeats foundation; a choice that appears to be resonating with listeners globally.

Released in January 2026, REAL, Vol. 1 is a concise four-track EP that thrives on chemistry and restraint. Wizkid’s melodic calm and Asake’s gritty, percussive delivery create a contrast that feels intentional rather than forced.

While REAL, Vol. 1 stands on its own, its Billboard entry also fits into a broader narrative around Wizkid’s relationship with the World Albums chart.

Since the release of Made in Lagos in 2020, Wizkid has remained a recurring presence on the chart through various projects, re-entries, and collaborative releases. With REAL, Vol. 1 charting in 2026, Wizkid has now recorded appearances on the Billboard World Albums chart across seven consecutive calendar years; a milestone that underscores his longevity and consistency on the global stage.

While Billboard does not always publish consolidated year-by-year streak summaries, the pattern of Wizkid’s chart activity across these years is well-documented through individual chart entries and reappearances.

For Asake, the EP adds another global credential to an already dominant run. 

As African artists continue to chart, tour, and collaborate at global scale, releases like REAL, Vol. 1 feel less like exceptions and more like markers of a maturing ecosystem.

Asake Makes History with Four Projects in Apple Music Nigeria Top 10

Asake has added another historic achievement to his already impressive run, becoming the first Nigerian artist to have four separate projects simultaneously ranked inside the Apple Music Nigeria Top 10 albums chart.

The milestone highlights not just the success of his latest release, but the continued popularity of his entire catalogue,  proving his music isn’t just trending; it’s lasting.

According to the latest Apple Music Nigeria rankings, Asake occupies four spots in the Top 10:

  • #1 — REAL
  • #6 — Work of Art
  • #8 — Mr. Money With The Vibe
  • #9 — Lungu Boy

Holding the No. 1 album while three previous projects also remain in heavy rotation shows how deeply his music continues to resonate with listeners across Nigeria.

What makes this moment significant is that the albums span different phases of Asake’s career.

Mr. Money With The Vibe introduced him as a disruptive new voice in Afrobeats. Work of Art followed with global hits that confirmed his staying power. Lungu Boy expanded his sound while keeping his street-pop appeal intact.

Now, REAL ft Wizkid sits at the top of the chart, driving renewed interest in his earlier work and pushing multiple projects back into the streaming spotlight.

Few artists manage to dominate charts with both new and older projects at the same time; a sign of catalogue strength rather than just release-week hype.

Asake’s rise since his breakout under YBNL has been defined by consistency. His fusion of Afrobeats, amapiano bounce, Fuji influences, and street-ready hooks has helped him maintain a strong connection with listeners.

The current chart performance suggests fans are not only consuming new music but also revisiting past albums, keeping them competitive against newer releases from other artists.

In just a few years, Asake has gone from breakout act to one of the most commercially dominant artists in Nigerian music. This latest Apple Music record further strengthens his position as one of the defining artists of his generation.

With REAL currently leading the charts and his catalogue still thriving, the bigger question now is how long his multi-album dominance will last and what record he breaks next.

For now, one thing is clear: Asake owns the moment on Nigeria’s streaming charts.

Wizkid, Burna Boy, and Asake to Headline 2026 Afro Nation Festival in Portugal

The 2026 Afro Nation Festival has officially confirmed its headliners, and Nigerian music fans have plenty to celebrate. Wizkid, Burna Boy, and Asake are set to take the stage at one of the world’s biggest Afrobeats festivals, scheduled to take place from July 3 to 5 at the scenic Praia Da Rocha Beach in Portimão, Portugal.

Now in its fifth year in Portugal, Afro Nation has grown into a global cultural event, attracting music lovers from across Africa, Europe, and beyond. The festival is celebrated for bringing together Afrobeats, R&B, dancehall, and amapiano in one vibrant, sun-soaked beach setting.

This year’s lineup is a major win for fans of Nigerian music. Wizkid, one of Afrobeats’ biggest international stars, is expected to deliver a show-stopping performance. Known for hits like Essence and Morayo, Wizkid has solidified his place as a global ambassador for Afrobeats, and his presence at Afro Nation only adds to the festival’s star power.

Burna Boy, the “African Giant,” also joins the headliners. Burna Boy’s signature Afro-fusion sound and high-energy performances have made him a must-watch act at festivals worldwide. His inclusion is a testament to Afro Nation’s commitment to showcasing Africa’s top talent on the international stage.

Rising star Asake rounds out the Nigerian headliners. With multiple chart-topping hits and a growing international following, Asake is quickly becoming one of the most streamed artists in Afrobeats. His performances are known for their infectious energy, making him a perfect fit for the festival’s beach-party vibes.

While Nigerian artists lead the bill, Afro Nation 2026 promises an eclectic mix of performers from around the world. South African sensation Tyla, American rapper Gunna, and R&B star Kehlani are among the confirmed acts. Other notable performers include Olamide, Young Jonn, Darkoo, Bien, Niska, and Djodje, as well as Uncle Waffles on the dedicated Amapiano stage.

The festival’s lineup spans multiple genres, ensuring there’s something for every music lover. From Afrobeat rhythms to dancehall grooves, R&B vibes, and amapiano beats, Afro Nation continues to offer a truly global festival experience.

For Nigerian music fans, this is an opportunity to see some of the country’s biggest stars in one place, performing live alongside international talent. With Wizkid, Burna Boy, and Asake leading the charge, Afro Nation 2026 promises to be one of the most unforgettable editions yet.

Wizkid & Asake’s “Turbulence” Debuts at No. 2 on Spotify Global Chart

Wizkid and Asake are commanding attention far beyond local borders as their collaboration, “Turbulence,” makes an immediate impact on the global stage.

The song has debuted at No. 2 on the Spotify Top Songs Debut Global chart, ranking as one of the most streamed new releases worldwide during its opening tracking period. The strong entry highlights the growing global demand for Afrobeats and reinforces both artists’ positions as international streaming forces.

Turbulence is not the only song gaining traction globally. Two other tracks, “Alaye” and “Iskolodo,” also debuted on the Spotify Top Songs Debut Global chart at No. 6 and No. 8 respectively.

Having three songs debut simultaneously within the global top ten reflects a high level of listener engagement across multiple regions and platforms. It also signals the expanding reach of Nigerian music beyond Africa and into key international markets.

Wizkid’s continued presence on global charts further cements his legacy as one of Afrobeats’ most influential exports. His music consistently resonates with audiences across Europe, North America, and other parts of the world, years after his initial global breakthrough.

Asake’s rise has been equally remarkable. With back-to-back charting releases and strong streaming numbers, he has become one of the most listened-to African artists globally, representing a new generation of Afrobeats acts dominating digital platforms.

The global chart performance of Turbulence, Alaye, and Iskolodo is another clear indicator that Afrobeats has evolved into a truly global genre. Rather than crossing over occasionally, Nigerian artists are now debuting at the top end of worldwide charts alongside established international stars.

As streaming continues to shape global music consumption, milestones like this point to Afrobeats’ growing influence and staying power on the world stage.

Turbulence also debuted at No. 6 on the Spotify Top Songs Debut USA chart, further underlining its strong international reception.

Wizkid & Asake Officially Release ‘REAL, Vol. 1’ EP

Afrobeats heavyweights Wizkid and Asake have officially released their highly anticipated collaborative project, REAL, Vol. 1, marking one of the most significant joint releases in Nigerian music in recent years.

The four-track EP brings together two of Africa’s most dominant hitmakers, blending Wizkid’s smooth, global Afrobeats sound with Asake’s raw, street-rooted energy 

REAL, Vol. 1 is a compact but tightly curated EP that showcases both artists at their most confident. The project features the following tracks:

  • Turbulence
  • Jogodo
  • Iskolodo
  • Alaye
Screenshot

Rather than chasing trends, the EP leans into rhythm, melody, and atmosphere staying true to the distinct identities that have made Wizkid and Asake two of the most streamed African artists of the past decade.

“Jogodo” Sets the Tone for the Project

Leading the EP is “Jogodo,” the breakout single that had already ignited massive attention ahead of the project’s full release. Since dropping, the song has gone on to deliver one of the biggest commercial performances for a Nigerian collaboration in recent memory.

“Jogodo” recorded a historic debut on Spotify Nigeria, pulling in over 1.3 million streams within its first 24 hours, making it the biggest opening day ever for a collaborative track on the platform. The momentum didn’t slow down, as the record crossed 5 million streams within its first week, setting a new benchmark for weekly streaming in Nigeria.

Beyond streaming numbers, “Jogodo” quickly asserted its dominance across major platforms:

  • The track reached No. 1 on Apple Music Nigeria and Spotify Nigeria, maintaining a strong daily streaming pace.
  • Internationally, “Jogodo” entered the Spotify Global Daily Top 100, signalling growing global interest beyond Africa.
  • The song also gained traction on global Shazam charts, highlighting organic discovery outside its core market.

Wizkid, one of Afrobeats’ most influential global figures, and Asake, arguably the genre’s most disruptive force of the last three years, have aligned at the peak of their powers.

With “Jogodo” already setting records and the EP now fully available, REAL, Vol. 1 is expected to dominate conversations, playlists, and charts in the coming weeks further reinforcing Afrobeats’ global momentum in 2026.

Wizkid and Asake Drop “Jogodo” Ahead of their Joint EP REAL (Vol. 1)

Nigerian superstars Wizkid and Asake officially kick off their first joint project with the release of “Jogodo”, the lead single from their upcoming EP titled REAL (Vol. 1). Set to drop on January 23, 2026, this collaboration marks a historic moment in the Nigerian music scene, bringing together two of the country’s most influential artists.

The announcement has sparked excitement across social media, with fans praising the chemistry between Wizkid’s smooth Afropop sound and Asake’s energetic street‑influenced rhythms.

“Jogodo” is the first taste of what listeners can expect from the joint EP. The track blends Asake’s rhythmic, chant-heavy style with Wizkid’s signature smooth vocals, creating a unique sound that is both catchy and culturally resonant.

The song has already started trending on streaming platforms, currently ranking at No. 7 Apple Music NG proving that fans are eager for more from the duo.

It’s a high-energy track that perfectly captures the strengths of both artists, giving a glimpse into the direction of REAL (Vol. 1)

About the EP: REAL (Vol. 1)

The full EP, REAL (Vol. 1), will feature multiple tracks highlighting the duo’s distinct musical styles. The project is expected to combine street-inspired Afrobeat grooves with global pop elements, appealing to both Nigerian and international audiences.

This marks the first full-length collaborative EP between Wizkid and Asake, building on previous successful features like Asake on Wizkid’s Morayo album (“Bad Girl”) and Wizkid on Asake’s 2024 hit “MMS.” These past collaborations set the stage for a deeper and more cohesive project.

Wizkid has been a global Afrobeats ambassador for over a decade, known for hits like Essence, Ojuelegba, and his latest Morayo album. His collaborations with international artists have helped bring Nigerian music to a worldwide audience.

Asake, on the other hand, has quickly risen to become one of Nigeria’s most exciting acts, known for his energetic delivery and street-to-mainstream appeal. With hits like Omo Ope and MMS, Asake has solidified his position as a rising star with a unique sound that complements Wizkid’s style.

Fan Reactions

The release of “Jogodo” has already dominated Twitter, TikTok, and Instagram, with fans sharing clips, reactions, and remixes. Some have even called it the “collaboration of the year”, highlighting the seamless synergy between the two artists.

With the EP’s release just days away, fans can expect more chart-topping singles and innovative Afrobeats sounds. “Jogodo” sets the tone for an exciting project that merges global pop sensibilities with Nigerian street energy.

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