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Entertainment
Malian Afropop singer Salif Keita named advisor to junta chief
Malian Afropop musician, Salif Keita, popularly referred to as the ‘Golden Voice of Africa’, has been appointed special advisor to the head of Mali’s military junta.
This was announced in a decree signed by Colonel Assimi Goita, the military leader who ousted the country’s elected president, Ibrahim Boubacar Keita, in 2020.
The transitional president, in a decree dated August 11 and published August 14 2023, appointed five new special advisors.
The decree does not give details about the singer’s new role.
The 73-year-old singer has been a strong supporter of the junta, endorsing its narrative of national sovereignty and calling for the departure of UN peacekeeping troops from Mali.
Recall that Salif Keita had, in a letter some days ago, resigned from an assembly set up by the military in power since 2020 to act as a legislative body.
He gave no reason for his letter of resignation, stating that he would always remain “the undisputed friend of my country’s soldiers.”
Entertainment
VeryDarkMan regains freedom after two weeks detention
Controversial social media critic, Martin Otse, popularly known as VeryDarkMan, has regained his freedom after spending over two weeks in detention.
Otse was billed to be released one week after his arraignment by the police for cyberstalking and bullying on May 22, 2024.
A viral video on X Monday shows VeryDarkMan walking into his fans after he was set free.
Recall that the social media critic was arraigned before the Federal High Court sitting in Abuja, facing five counts of cyberstalking involving the Nigeria police and Nollywood actresses Iyabo Ojo and Tonto Dike, to which he pleaded not guilty.
His lawyer, Deji Adeyanju, applied for bail, but the police prosecuting team informed Justice Mobolaji Olajuwon that they needed more time to respond to the application, leading the court to adjourn the bail hearing to May 29.
The prosecution sought to have the blogger remanded in prison custody, but his lawyers successfully argued for his remand in police custody instead.
The court granted this request, and Verydarkman was subsequently taken to the National Cybercrime Centre.
Entertainment
Wizkid announces sixth studio album “Morayo” dedicated to late mother
Nigerian Afrobeats sensation Wizkid, renowned for his chart-topping hits and infectious beats, has recently touched the hearts of his fans with a deeply personal announcement. In a heartfelt video message shared via his social media platforms on Saturday, the “Ojuelegba” hitmaker revealed that his highly anticipated sixth studio album would be a tribute to his late mother, Jane Morayo Balogun.
The album, aptly titled “Morayo” in honor of his beloved mother, is set to be released “very soon,” as Wizkid passionately declared in his message, urging his followers to stay tuned and not to miss out. “My album ‘Morayo’, dedicated to my mum, the love of my life, drops very soon. Don’t dull. Don’t sleep,” he expressed, underscoring the significance of the forthcoming release.
The announcement comes as a poignant reminder of the enduring bond between Wizkid and his mother, Jane Dolapo Balogun, who tragically passed away on August 18, 2023, in London. The loss of his mother has deeply impacted the acclaimed artist, who candidly acknowledged the profound pain he continues to grapple with. “The pain is profound,” Wizkid reflected, speaking to the profound grief he has experienced since her passing.
For Wizkid, “Morayo” represents more than just another album; it serves as a poignant tribute to the woman who held a special place in his heart and played an instrumental role in shaping his life and career. Through his music, he seeks to honor her memory and celebrate the enduring love and bond they shared.
As fans eagerly anticipate the release of “Morayo,” Wizkid’s heartfelt dedication to his late mother serves as a testament to the enduring power of love and the profound impact of loss. In honoring his mother’s legacy through his music, Wizkid invites listeners on a journey of remembrance, reflection, and ultimately, celebration of a life well-lived.
Stay tuned as Wizkid prepares to unveil his latest musical masterpiece, “Morayo,” a heartfelt tribute to his late mother and a testament to the enduring power of love.
Entertainment
Rihanna encourages Ayra Starr to dominate both sides of the music industry
Billionaire songstress Rihanna sees boundless potential in Nigerian singer Ayra Starr, affirming her capability to conquer both the male and female realms of the music industry.
Rihanna, renowned for her global influence, commended Ayra’s distinctive voice, noting its broad appeal to audiences of all genders.
“Ayra’s deep voice resonates with both boys and girls,” Rihanna stated confidently, expressing her conviction in Ayra’s future dominance in the music world.
Ayra Starr revealed her enlightening encounter with Rihanna at the Authentic Woman event in the UK during a recent interview with Billboard.
Reflecting on their interaction, the ‘Rush’ crooner shared, “We got to hang out after the event. Just spending time with my idol, the person that inspired me to do all of this, was the most amazing thing. She gave me so many pointers and advice.”
Ayra, known for her distinct vocal timbre, admitted to concerns about her voice’s reception, to which Rihanna offered empowering reassurance.
“I love my voice, but I know I have a very deep voice like, ‘Is that a man?! Is that a boy?!’ Rihanna was like, ‘You have the type of voice that can take over the males and take over the girls. You are here to take over both sides of the industry.’
‘And I was like, ‘You think so?’ She’s like, ‘Yes! Yes!’ I was like, ‘Thank you so much!’ She was like, ‘That’s your superpower.’ I was like, ‘I never thought of it like that. Thank you.’ She just put everything into perspective for me.’
With Rihanna’s encouragement and guidance, Ayra Starr stands poised to redefine industry norms and inspire a new generation of artists.