Entertainment/Arts/Culture
Ghanaian Soul Singer, Baaba J Emerges Spotify’s “EQUAL Africa Artiste” for April

Spotify, a global online streaming platform has announced Ghanaian singer, Baaba J as its EQUAL Africa artiste for the month of April.
Phiona Okumu, Spotify’s Head of Music for Sub-Saharan Africa disclosed this in a statement on Friday, in Lagos.
Okumu said Baaba J was a rising Ghanaian star whose unique blend of Soul, Pop, Rap, and Alté created an innovative sound that pushed boundaries and challenged traditional music genres.
She said her music featured lyrics in English, Ga, and Pidgin that were precise and poetic.
” For April, music streaming platform, Spotify has recognised Baaba J’s talent by naming her the Spotify EQUAL Africa artiste for April.
” EQUAL is Spotify’s programme that seeks to spotlight and amplify the voices of African female artistes, breaking down barriers and making waves in music.
” Through our collaboration with diverse and talented artistes like Baaba J, we are dedicated to amplifying underrepresented voices and breaking down barriers in the music industry.
” We hope that by shining a light on their unique perspectives and experiences, we can inspire a new generation of creators and listeners alike,” she said.
Okumu noted that Baaba J’s lyrics were sprawling and innovative, touching on themes of love, heartache, and the desire to belong.
According to her, Baaba fearlessly mixes piercing personal reflections with metaphors, singing in Ga and Pidgin to emphasise her point that one has to constantly march to the beat of their own drum.
” Her passion for music began as an escape from the monotony of everyday life, and it has evolved into a powerful force connecting her with music lovers.
” Her remarkable 2020 five-track ep Lumumba Street unearthed love, grief, heartache and the desire to belong amid a burning patchwork of Soul, Pop, Rap, and Alte.
” The project’s lead single, Tomboy, whose video she co-directed, is a powerful anthem of self-confidence and empowerment.
” Baaba J has delivered stellar performances on platforms such as the Accra Indie Film Festival, The Crusade, and The MiM Life Concert.
” She was also part of the Ghanaian creatives who met the Vice President of the United States of America, Kamala Harris during her visit to Ghana at the Vibrate Space,” she said.
In her response, Baaba J said “I’m looking to a time in the near future where there would be more avenues and safe spaces for women to record music and begin their music journeys.
” More women producers, women-owned studios, and women transforming the music scene”. (NAN)
Entertainment/Arts/Culture
Angela Okorie Lists Shocking Conditions before Accepting Romantic Proposal

Nollywood actress Angela Okorie has stirred controversy on social media after revealing a strict list of conditions she expects from any man who wishes to pursue a romantic relationship with her.
The single mother of one took to her Instagram stories to share the requirements, which include a thorough investigation of the man’s background for two years, knowing his family, and even demanding an “artist’s fee” before he can speak to her.
Okorie boldly stated she expects men to pay a billion naira upfront, adding she does not care if people accuse her of “selling her love.
”She wrote: “A male friend of mine said, ‘Angela, any guy wey you go date or marry you, we go investigate am for 2 years before you go gree… He will pay artists fee every day before he go talk to you else we no go gree o…’
So note that before dating or marriage you will pay a billion naira.
Before relationship, I don’t care if people say I am selling my love, Yes am selling my love o.”Angela’s post quickly went viral, sparking varied reactions from netizens. Some praised her for setting high standards, while others mocked or questioned her demands.
Comments ranged from support like, “Her life, her choice, her list,” to skepticism: “Wait! She’s still thinking of marriage?” and humorous jabs such as, “And for that 2 years that same male friend (bestie) will be eating the cookie free of charge.”
Entertainment/Arts/Culture
Made Kuti Calls out Nigerian Celebs with Fleets of Cars

Grammy-nominated Afrobeat artiste, Made Kuti, has stirred conversations online after questioning why some individuals feel the need to acquire multiple cars.
In a recent interview with Pulse, the son of Afrobeat legend Femi Kuti expressed his disinterest in material possessions, attributing his mindset to his upbringing and values instilled by his father.
“I’m the kind of person who just does what he wants.
Maybe my dad was very clever with how he raised us,” he said.Made explained that while others may find joy in material accumulation, he finds it “weird” to own seven or eight cars, noting that vehicles are depreciating assets.
“For example, how many cars do you need to drive? I genuinely don’t understand why you need 7, 8 cars.
They are depreciating assets. In the next couple of years, they will depreciate.”He added that although others may have different interests, his personal values are grounded in simplicity and purpose, rather than excessive wealth.
Entertainment/Arts/Culture
Nollywood Thriller ‘Freedom Way’ Hits Cinemas July 18

Star-studded Nollywood action drama “Freedom Way,” is set to hit cinemas across the country on July 18, its producers have said.
Blessing Uzzi, writer and producer of the highly anticipated film made the disclosure in a post on her Instagram page.
The film is directed by Afolabi Olalekan, with a rich ensemble cast which include Debo Adedayo(‘Mr Macaroni’),Femi Jacobs, whose performances earned the film Best Film and Best Writing at the Africa Magic Viewers’ Choice Awards (AMVCA).
Other cast includes Mike Afolarin, Bimbo Akintola, and Teniola Aladese, among others, contributing to the film’s compelling narrative.
“Freedom Way” plot sheds light on pressing issues facing Nigerians, such as corruption, police brutality, political oppression, and economic insecurity, and their impact on the youth.
The story revolves around nine strangers grappling with personal struggles as harsh government policies disrupt their lives, forcing moral ‘dilemmas for survival’
The film made its global premiere at the 2024 Toronto International Film Festival and went on to win the Special Jury Award at the Africa International Film Festival (AFRIFF).
It has also screened at the New York African Film Festival and the Red Sea International Film Festival, establishing it as a standout African film of the year.
After captivating audiences at various international film festivals, the much-anticipated “Freedom Way” is now set to make its homecoming release in Nigerian cinemas on July 18.