Tag: Nigerian Music News

  • Tyla Claims Historic Second Win Over Afrobeats Heavyweights at 2026 Grammys

    Tyla Claims Historic Second Win Over Afrobeats Heavyweights at 2026 Grammys

    According to The Lagos Review, South African sensation Tyla has once again emerged victorious in the Best African Music Performance category at the 68th Annual Grammy Awards. Her hit track “Push 2 Start” bested a formidable lineup of Nigerian stars, including Davido’s “With You,” Burna Boy’s “Love,” and Ayra Starr’s “Gimme Dat.” This marks Tyla’s second win in the category, following her 2024 triumph with “Water.”

    The results have sparked a massive debate across Nigerian social media, with fans questioning the Recording Academy’s voting criteria. Despite the loss for current stars, the night was sweetened by a posthumous Lifetime Achievement Award for Afrobeat pioneer Fela Kuti, accepted by his children Femi, Yeni, and Kunle Kuti.

    Confirming the win, The Nation Nigeria reported on the mixed reactions within the Nigerian music industry. The outlet quoted fan reactions stating, “He was robbed,” in reference to Davido’s narrow miss. Switsalone also covered the event, capturing Tyla’s emotional acceptance speech where she said, “I’m just so lucky to be here, and I’m so proud to be African.”

    Echotitbits take: While Tyla’s dominance is a testament to the global appeal of Amapiano-fusion, the “zero for ten” streak for Nigerian nominees this year is a wake-up call for the Afrobeats industry. Expect a shift in how Nigerian labels strategize for international awards, possibly moving toward more collaborative “global” sounds to appeal to the Academy’s current palate.

    Source: The Lagos Review — https://thelagosreview.ng/tyla-beats-davido-wizkid-burna-boy-to-grammy-win/ February 5, 2026

    Photo Credit: The Lagos Review

  • Davido Opens Up on Wife Chioma’s Support After Grammy Snub

    Davido Opens Up on Wife Chioma’s Support After Grammy Snub

    In a post shared by Punch Newspapers, Afrobeat superstar Davido has recounted the touching words of encouragement he received from his wife, Chioma, following his recent Grammy loss. Despite the disappointment of not securing a win at the 68th Annual Grammy Awards, Davido revealed that Chioma’s resilience and perspective were what motivated him to attend the high-profile after-parties.

    The singer noted that his wife reminded him of his global impact and the love of his fans, which far outweighs a single trophy. This public display of affection and mutual support has further solidified the couple’s status as a fan favorite in the Nigerian entertainment scene, especially after a taxing award season.

    Davido’s vulnerability about the loss has sparked a wider conversation about the Grammys’ relationship with Afrobeats. While he remains optimistic, the singer is clearly leaning into his “30BG” family and personal support system to navigate the mixed emotions following the Los Angeles ceremony.

    * Daily Post Nigeria: “Davido reveals his hit song ‘With You’ almost didn’t make his album, but Chioma’s words after the Grammy loss were what truly ‘made them attend the after-party.’”

    * The Nation: “Fans react to Davido’s Grammy loss as the singer credits Chioma for keeping his spirits high during the LA trip.”

    Echotitbits take:

    Davido’s decision to share this intimate moment is a strategic PR move to control the “loser” narrative. By pivoting the focus to his marriage and internal strength, he maintains his “001” status and keeps the fans emotionally invested. Watch for a potential “revenge” single or a new album announcement as he channels this energy back into the studio.

    Source: Vanguard — vanguardngr.com/2026/02/what-my-wife-told-me-after-i-lost-grammy-davido/ February 3, 2026

    Photo Credit: Vanguard

  • Wizkid and Asake Shatter Spotify Nigeria Records with New Collaboration

    Wizkid and Asake Shatter Spotify Nigeria Records with New Collaboration

    According to Revolt TV, Afrobeats heavyweights Wizkid and Asake have set a new benchmark for domestic streaming with their latest track, “Jogodo.” The song surged up the charts, surpassing previous 24-hour stream records on Spotify Nigeria, as Wizkid also became the first African artist to hit 10 billion streams on the platform.

    The collaboration merges Wizkid’s global appeal with Asake’s “Neo-Fuji” momentum, and fans have dubbed the track an instant classic. The track reportedly broke the all-time record for the biggest single-day streaming total for a collaboration in Nigeria and quickly dominated playlists across the continent.

    On X, @chartdata highlighted the record, reporting 1.388 million single-day streams on Spotify Nigeria. Wizkid also teased the upcoming joint EP, *REAL, Vol. 1*, via his official Instagram.

    Echotitbits take: This record isn’t just about numbers; it signals the “Big 3” era evolving into a broader “Big 5,” where strategic collaborations dictate market dominance. Wizkid hitting 10 billion streams while breaking local records with Asake shows he’s playing the long game of global and local relevance. Watch for “Jogodo” to test the Billboard Global 200 conversation quickly.
    Source: Arise – https://www.arise.tv/wizkid-and-asakes-jogodo-sets-spotify-nigeria-record-with-1-388-million-streams-in-one-day/ 2026-01-19

    Photo Credit: Arise

  • Mr Real Issues Public Apology to D’banj to Resolve Legal Feud

    Mr Real Issues Public Apology to D’banj to Resolve Legal Feud

    In a post shared by @misterreal_ on Instagram, singer Mr Real issued a public apology to D’banj following tension over comments about the CREAM platform that reportedly led to a petition for criminal defamation.

    In the video, Mr Real described D’banj as a mentor and expressed regret for the tone and public framing of his remarks, signaling willingness to resolve the dispute privately. The episode has been cited by fans as a reminder that online commentary can quickly become legal exposure.

    The Nation Newspaper confirmed the apology and quoted Mr Real saying he misunderstood aspects of the CREAM platform. References to the legal angle note that D’banj’s counsel had previously filed the petition before the apology surfaced.

    Echotitbits take: This is “humility over headache.” Mr Real likely clocked the seriousness of criminal defamation risk and chose a soft landing. For D’banj, the apology reinforces elder-statesman authority in the industry—respect still carries weight even in the social-media era.
    Source: The Nation – https://thenationonlineng.net/mr-real-apologises-to-dbanj-over-cream-platform-remark/  2026-01-20

    Photo Credit: The Nation

  • Wizkid and Seun Kuti Exchange Shots in Social Media Fan War

    Wizkid and Seun Kuti Exchange Shots in Social Media Fan War

    Afrobeats Global reports that Wizkid has responded publicly to the ongoing clash with Seun Kuti, escalating a fan-driven dispute that has simmered for weeks. Wizkid’s post drew a sharp contrast between Fela Kuti’s activism and what he framed as Seun’s focus on fighting fanbases online.

    The tension traces back to Seun’s criticism of comparing modern pop stars to Fela, arguing that awards and numbers are not the same as legacy. Wizkid’s engagement marks a departure from his usual quiet stance on industry drama and has quickly split social media into two camps.

    Seun Kuti’s prior comments (circulating from his social channels) have emphasized activist purity and historic context, while Wizkid’s “FC” fanbase has treated the back-and-forth as a direct attack on their identity.

    Echotitbits take: This isn’t just celebrity beef—it’s a fight over what “legend” means in Nigerian music. Seun represents purist activism; Wizkid represents modern global dominance. By targeting fans, Seun handed Wizkid an opening to frame him as out of touch. Expect this to run for weeks as fan armies keep the algorithm hot.
    Source: Facebook/Legit.ng – https://web.facebook.com/legitngdaily/posts/wizkid-has-added-a-new-twist-to-his-ongoing-feud-with-seun-kutihis-latest-post-q/1333581272145551/?_rdc=1&_rdr# 2026-01-20

    Photo Credit: Facebook/Legit.ng

  • Wizkid Teases Mystery Album Cover and February Release Date

    Wizkid Teases Mystery Album Cover and February Release Date

    Wizkid Teases Mystery Album Cover and February Release Date

    Wizkid posted a cryptic, minimalist teaser with “02.2026,” sparking speculation about a February release and a new R&B-infused Afrobeats direction.

    Social chatter and cross-platform reposts continued to push the story, with fans and commentators dissecting the visuals, branding, and potential next moves.

    Echotitbits take: Wizkid’s quiet-to-cryptic rollout remains one of the most effective marketing plays in Nigerian pop. A February window positions him for sustained chart impact and a strong run into the 2026–2027 awards cycle.

    Source: eiighanaafrica — https://eiighanaafrica.com/news/wizkid-teases-new-album-release-date-with-surprise-listening-party-in-lagos 2026-01-21
    Photo Credit: eiighanaafrica

    2026-01-21

  • Adekunle Gold Makes History at Wole Soyinka Centre in Lagos

    Adekunle Gold Makes History at Wole Soyinka Centre in Lagos

    According to a post by Leadership Newspapers, Afrobeats sensation Adekunle Gold has become the first contemporary music artist to sell out a headline performance at the prestigious Wole Soyinka Centre in Lagos. The achievement is being hailed as a ‘cultural reset,’ bridging the gap between mainstream pop music and the high-art intellectual spaces traditionally reserved for literary and theatrical events.

    The concert, which featured an acoustic set and a live band, showcased the ‘Tequila Ever After’ singer’s evolution from ‘King of Highlife’ to a global genre-bending icon. Fans on TikTok have shared numerous clips of the intimate performance, praising the artist’s vocal range and the sophisticated production of the event.

    Validating reports from The Nation and Vanguard highlight the significance of the venue. The Nation reported that ‘AG Baby has officially crossed into the legendary tier,’ while Vanguard noted, ‘The sold-out show proves that Nigerian audiences are hungry for more than just club bangers.’

    Echotitbits take: Adekunle Gold is playing the long game. While his peers are chasing stadium tours in the US, he is building a ‘prestige’ brand at home. Selling out a venue named after a Nobel laureate positions him as a thinking man’s artist, potentially opening doors for more ‘cultural ambassador’ roles and high-end brand partnerships in 2026.
    Source: Leadership Newspapers – https://leadership.ng/adekunle-gold-makes-history-as-first-artiste-to-sell-out-wole-soyinka-centre-in-lagos/ January 4, 2026
    Photo Credit: Leadership Newspapers