Afrobeat superstar Ayra Starr has earned the  prestigious Platinum Certification in the United Kingdom for her  hit single “Rush”,  for surpassing 600,000 units in combined sales and streams.

The British Phonographic Industry (BPI) officially recognise “Rush” with a platinum plaque, making the “Sability”  crooner  first Nigerian female artist to achieve this remarkable feat in the UK.

The hit song  marked Ayra Starr’s debut on the UK Official Top 100, cementing  her growing  status as one of the most sought-after African music artiste in recent times.

The Grammy-nominated singer had earlier earned impressive accolades for ‘Rush’, including a Diamond Certification in France in 2023.

“Rush”was released in Sept, 2022, and quickly gained viral success, charting in the top ten across several countries such as France, Lebanon, and South Africa.

The track’s massive popularity also contributed to Ayra Starr’s first Grammy nomination for Best African Music Performance at the 66th annual Grammy Awards.

In addition to her recent UK achievement, “Rush” has also earned  platinum status in Canada and New Zealand, and 3times Platinum in Nigeria, demonstrating its widespread acclaim and commercial success. (NAN) 

Rapper OdumoduBlvck has emerged as the big winner of the ‘Next Rated’ category at the 17th edition of the prestigious Headies Award.The 17th Headies Award ceremony, with the theme “Back to Base”, took place on Sunday at the Landmark Event Centre, Lagos.The Next Rated category is arguably the most coveted award at the Headies, recognising the most promising and talented emerging artistes in the industry.

OdumoduBlvck’s win in the Next Rated category was a highlight of the evening. In an emotional moment, he brought his mother and entire crew on stage to celebrate with him.He shared a heartfelt story about his mother’s journey, revealing that she gave birth to him in her late thirties and how she always knew he was destined for greatness.He expressed his deep gratitude to his mother, dedicating the award to her, and acknowledging the special bond they share as mother and son.The crowd erupted in applause as Odumudu Blvck’s mother beamed with pride, surrounded by her son’s crew members, friends, and Report also says that this year’s event marked a significant return to Nigeria after a two-year of hosting in the United States.The “Back to Base” theme of the ceremony highlighted the importance of staying true to one’s cultural identity while pushing the boundaries of creativity and innovation.The event drew an array of star-studded attendees, showcasing the richness and diversity of African music.Notable attendees included Governor of Lagos State, Babajide Sanwo-Olu, who graced the occasion with his presence.Celebrities, top industry stakeholders, and dignitaries walked the red carpet, adding to the glamour of the evening.One of the most talked-about moments of the night was the attendance of Tanzanian singer Juma Jux and his wife, Priscilla Ojo.The newlywed couple marked their first appearance together at the Headies award, making it a memorable night for fans and admirers.This year’s edition of Headies featured 31 categories, including Artiste of the Year, Song of the Year, and Recording of the Year.Other notable winners of the night included Liya, who won Best Vocal Performance (Female).Lojay, who won Best Vocal Performance (Male), and Rema, who won Afrobeats Album of the Year for his album “HEIS”.Davido was crowned Artiste of the Year, while Zerry DL took home the Rookie of the Year award.Late rapper Mohbad was also honoured with a posthumous award, which was received by his family.KCEE was recognised with a Special Recognition Award for years of excellence in the industry.Other notable winners include:- Tribe Called Judah,(Soundtrack of the Year); Tems, who won Best Recording of the Year for her song “Burning”; Qing Madi, who won Songwriter of the Year for “Vision” by Chimamanda Pearl Chukwuma.Others are OZEBA, who won Producer of the Year; Director Pink, Music Video of the Year for “EGWU”; Flavour, Afrobeats Single of the Year for “Big Baller”.Also, Temitola Adekunle Johnson and Michelle Mukoro (King Mitchy), who were recipients of the Humanitarian Award. (NAN)

 by Muhyideen Jimoh

Liverpool clinched the Premier League title in style as they came from behind to thrash Tottenham 5-1 at Anfield.

First-half strikes from Luis Diaz, Alexis Mac Allister and Cody Gakpo all but wrapped up a record-equalling 20th top-flight title.

This was before Mohammed Salah’s 28th goal of a prolific campaign and a Destiny Udogie own goal made the scoreline emphatic.

Spurs briefly threatened to spoil a party that began hours before kick-off by taking an early lead through former Liverpool striker Dominic Solanke but the Londoners put up little resistance as the Reds clicked into gear.

The title, secured with four games to spare, is only the Merseysiders’ second in 35 years.

It is also the first in that period they have been permitted to celebrate in front of fans after their 2020 success came during the COVID-19 pandemic