Our correspondent reports that “Pity My Soul”, featuring Chike’s elder brother Syemca, is now available on major streaming platforms, including Spotify, Apple Music, Audiomack and YouTube Music .

The heartfelt single blends RnB and Afro-Soul elements with reflective lyrics as well as exploring themes of emotional exhaustion, empathy and personal struggles.

The singer had earlier hinted fans on the song’s release in a post on his verified X (formerly Twitter) handle, @officialchike,which many fans interpreted as a subtle response to the controversy.

The post reads, “Pity My Soul!”

The song is coming at the heat of the backlash the “Boo of the Booless” crooner is currently facing, following the alleged amorous relationship with Sandra, which he has not publicly addressed.

The timing of the release has however, divided public opinion, as many listeners believe it is too deliberate to be accidental, saying that Chike may be expressing emotions through music.

Others see the release from a purely strategic angle, arguing that Chike is simply using the heightened public attention surrounding his name to boost the visibility and reach of the new song.

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It was reported that fans on Tuesday flooded social media platforms with birthday wishes and glowing tributes to celebrate the singer’s new age.

The celebration began with a post on the artiste’s fan page on X (formerly Twitter) @omahlaynews, with the caption “World Omah Lay Day.Happy birthday to the Greatest”.

The ace singer also shared his photo on X and wrote, “Happy 29th birthday to me. Which song made you a fan? ”.

In a swift reaction to the post, fans and admirers of the artist continued to celebrate him with prayers and best wishes on the milestone.

@Joshua Olivia posted, “Happy birthday Omah more grace and peace of mind to you always. Big omah lay”.

@regina adong said, “HBD TO THE ONE WHO MAKES THE BEST SOUNDTRACKS FOR OUR EMOTIONS”

@Emmanuel Light wrote, Omah of good life birthday blessings”.

@Lekaagotwings said, “HAPPY BIRTHDAY GOAT! GOD WILL CONTINUE TO LIFT U IJN”.

Another user on X, @Oldestthug said, “I just Dey retweet anything concerning Omah Lay”.

@kenn-jnr wrote, “Happy birthday afrodepression more lyrics”.

@Chisomdavi also posted,”Happy birthday to my world Best therapist”.

@PonyTrims “Happy birthday champion”.

@Funsho the single guy said, “Happy cake day big MAN”.

@MONSTAR wrote, “keep wwining my bro”.

@main_ishh also wrote, “Happy birthday Stanley omah didia”.

@Betting tips man said, “Happy birthday king Omah”.

@Goldly-zeal said, “Happy birthday to the greatest”

NAN reports that Omah Lay was born on May 19, 1997, in Port Harcourt, Rivers State.

He rose to fame in the Nigerian music industry in 2020 after the release of his debut EP, “Get Layd”, which contained hit songs, including “Bad Influence” and “Lo Lo”.

He further gained international recognition with successful projects such as “What Have We Done” and his debut studio album “Boy Alone”.

The artiste won the Next Rated artist award at the 2020/2021 Headies Awards and earned his first Grammy nomination for Best African Music Performance for “With You” at the 2026 edition alongside Davido

The post Fans celebrate Afrobeats star Omah Lay at 29 appeared first on NEWSVERGE.

In a post on X on Tuesday, Makun said both emotional neglect and betrayal were painful experiences but argued that one should not justify the other.

According to him, more relationships could survive if both parties accepted responsibility instead of shifting blame or turning disagreements into public contests.

Makun noted that the trend is more pronounced in the social media era, where narratives are often reduced to heroes and villains, especially involving public figures.

He wrote, “We have normalised choosing sides so much that we no longer ask what truly went wrong.

“Emotional neglect is painful. Betrayal is painful too. One hurt should not automatically become justification for another. Maybe relationships would survive more if accountability was shared instead of outsourced.”

It was reported that the post by the veteran comedian and filmmaker is coming amidst trending marital rifts among celebrities on social media.

Ay and his estranged wife, Mabel, had in April 2024 released public statements announcing their separation, signaling that their union of over two decades had come to an end.

The comedian took to social media, admitting to personal flaws that contributed to the breakdown of the marriage, but emphasised that neither he nor his wife was completely blameless.

He cited a desire to keep private family matters out of the public eye to protect their children’s mental health.

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It was reported that the announcement was made on Tuesday by music data handle @ChaftsAfrica on X, (formerly Twitter) naming him the first African artiste to reach the milestone.

The post reads: “First African artists to reach major Spotify milestones:

“1 billion — Wizkid, 2 billion — Wizkid,
3 billion — Wizkid, 4 billion — Wizkid,
5 billion — Wizkid, 6 billion — Wizkid,
7 billion — Wizkid, 8 billion — Wizkid,
9 billion — Wizkid, 10 billion — Wizkid,
11 billion — Wizkid.”

The milestone came days after the release of Wizkid’s collaboration with DJ Tunez titled “State of Mind” on May 15, which recorded more than 685,000 Spotify streams globally within its first day.

It was also reported that earlier in January, ‘Big Wiz’, as the singer is fondly called by his teeming fans and industry peers, became the first African artiste to reach 10 billion streams on Spotify.

Entertainment stakeholders and fans have also described the milestone as another major moment for African music on the global stage.

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In a statement on Thursday, Managing Director for Spotify in Africa, Jocelyne Muhutu-Remy, said the mobile-only experience allowed eligible users to revisit key moments from their time on the platform.

Muhutu-Remy said users would also be able to revist the first day they joined Spotify, their first streamed song, their most-played artiste and the number of unique songs they have listened to over the years.

She said the feature also generated an ‘All-Time Top Songs’ playlist containing each user’s 120 most-streamed tracks alongside play counts, offering listeners a nostalgic snapshot of the music that had shaped different moments in their lives.

Muhutu-Remy said every section of the experience ends with a shareable card that users could save or post on social media, tapping into the growing culture of fans publicly comparing their listening habits and music tastes online.

According to Muhutu-Remy, for many users in Nigeria and Kenya, the feature is expected to revive memories tied to everyday routines, celebrations, heartbreaks and major milestones that were accompanied by music discovered on the platform.

“Spotify has always been about making listening personal.

“With Spotify 20, we’re giving fans in Nigeria and Kenya a chance to look back at the artists, songs and moments that have shaped their journey with us.

“It’s a celebration of discovery, nostalgia and the communities that form around music,” she said.

Spotify said the three most-streamed artistes of all time globally were Taylor Swift, Bad Bunny and Drake.

It added that Bad Bunny’s ‘Un Verano Sin Ti’ was the platform’s most-streamed album, while ‘Blinding Lights’ by The Weeknd remained the most-streamed song globally.

According to Spotify, ‘Shape of You’ by Ed Sheeran ranks among the platform’s biggest songs, while The Joe Rogan Experience is its most-streamed podcast worldwide.

The company also said ‘A Court of Thorns and Roses’ by Sarah J. Maas was the most-streamed audiobook among Premium subscribers.

Our correspondent reports that unveiling forms part of Spotify’s broader global campaign marking two decades of the streaming service, which has grown from a music platform into a major player in podcasts, audiobooks and digital culture.

As part of the anniversary activities, Spotify’s editorial team has curated playlists highlighting defining musical eras, cultural moments and movements from the past 20 years, all available through the Spotify 20 hub on the platform.

The post Spotify’s ‘Your Party of the Year’ celebrates fans’ listening journeys appeared first on NEWSVERGE.

Our correspondent reports that the Nigerian entertainment industry has been thrown into mourning since on Tuesday when the news of the actor’s passing surfaced online.

Social media posts by his close colleagues, and trending media reports stated that he died after a prolonged battle with cancer.

The sad incident has continued to generate frenzy on social media platforms, with fans across Nigeria and beyond pouring in condolence messages and tributes to the late thespian.

A fan @Mr. Rekindled of AFC asked, “Is this some late April Fool joke. God, what kind of news is this? Rest in peace bro I don’t even know what to type”.

@perpetua Ebubech. Rest well Alex I am done pressurising myself and being ungrateful. Being alive is enough. Aaaaaah Alex”.

@Amed Oshiorenua commented saying, “This one hurts me ooo”.

@sheismirah_bakr noted that, “Indeed, every soul shall taste death. May we leave behind kindness, love, and good memories May we be celebrated while we are alive, not only mourned when we are gone”.

@oheneba_nanayere_joyce wrote, “Ooo my God, have mercy on us”.

@SAMPSOLO on X, wrote, “Omoh, sometimes when I hear such news I just sit down and think about life.

“Everything we’re struggling for can just end in one moment. It’s really scary”.

@nyarkowai23 said, “Aww fine boy .May his soul rest in peace”.

@_emefaaa wrote, “This is really sad, may his soul rest in peace”.

@ceeyahs_xclusivcollection commented, “Social media makes a lot of us, look like we are living happily. When we are actually fighting our battles. Remember we are all passing through something. Stay humble, stay kind”.

@DOG3tt said, “What’s wrong with nollywood why’s everyone dying young”.

@bbelleamieeee I loved him in Keeping My Man with Ramsey and Ini sad news…rest easy Alex”.

Ekubo’s passing has also attracted tributes from his colleagues and other celebrities ,with many describing him as a talented actor and a kind-hearted friend.

Popular actress Funke Akindele shared an emotional message on her Instagram Story.

She wrote, “Hmmmmmm. Rest in peace, Alex. I tried to reach out to see you one more time, but I guess you knew best.

“May your kind soul rest in peace, Alex. ‘Ore mi’ like you fondly called me, I will always remember and cherish the good times we shared together. Rest in Peace, Alex”.

Veteran actor, Richard Mofe-Damijo wrote, “Life is not only fickle, it can also feel unreal. Even as I type this, I still struggle to fully process it, and it deeply saddens me to hear this news.

“Rest in peace to a truly great soul. You came, you saw, and you conquered. We are proud of the life you lived, the journey you embraced, and the legacy you leave behind.

“Sleep well, our dear Alex.”

Actor Bolanle Ninalowo also wrote,“Rest on, Alex. May God heal your family and us all.”

Also,Singer Peter Okoye simply posted, “RIP”.

Actor Chinedu Ikedieze wrote, “Jesus, how?”

In a post on his X page, human rights activist and politician Omoyele Sowore described the late actor as a “rare talent.”

“My profound condolences to the family, friends, and fans of Nollywood star Alexx Ekubo, who I understand passed away after a prolonged battle with cancer”.

“I never met him personally, but I still cannot forget a movie of his I watched on an Emirates flight from New York to Dubai en route to Nairobi.

“He was a rare talent whose presence lit up the screen effortlessly. May he rest in power”.

NAN reports that Alex Ekubo, born on April 10,1986,was widely regarded as one of Nollywood’s most versatile actors, known for his performances in several hit films and television productions.

However, his prolonged absence from the public had raised concerns among fans and colleagues, as he stayed away from social media and public events for a long time.

His last post on Instagram was made in December 2024, shortly after reports emerged that his engagement to US-based model Fancy Acholonu had been called off.

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Our correspondent reports that the fans took to social media platforms to celebrate the 15-year lyrical milestone.

‘OBO’, as the singer is fondly called by his teeming fans and industry peers, had earlier on shared a post on his X page(formerly Twitter), reflecting on his journey so far.

He wrote: “God is the best of all planners! 15 years in da game”.

The post has continued to generate accolades from Davido’s fans and Afrobeats lovers across the globe, with many commending the singer’s devotion, achievements and contributions to the growth of African music on the international stage.

Others noted that the singer’s craft has transcended borders, united diverse audiences and inspired a new generation of artistes across Africa and beyond.

A fan on X, @abazwhyllzz commented “after God, you are my own greatest. Thank you for blessing our ears, soul and spirit.

“Without you there would have been no Nigerian music. Thank you for taking us to the limelight. Cheers to many more years and more success”.

@sy40 said, “always the greatest”.

@h3nree_ commented “Ronaldo of Music”.

A fan on Instagram @annasoto2880 described Davido as, “The Godfather”.

Another user on X, @prince_thissO01 praised the singer’s consistency saying, “thank you Jesus for making us , see more of this amazing man’s work and kindness”.

@manlikeIcey wrote, “From the release of his breakout records to becoming one of Africa’s most recognisable global music icons, Davido consistently redefined the sound and reach of Afrobeats on the international stage.

“Over the years, his music transcended borders, united diverse audiences and inspired a new generation of creatives across the world.”

However, a fan @Quotez noted that, “15 years, while people that came after you have grammy”.

NAN reports that Davido, born David Adeleke on November 21, 1992 in Atlanta, US, began his music career professionally in 2011, and started working on his debut studio album ‘Omo Baba Olowo’,a mixture of Afrobeats and hip hop.

He made his music debut as a member of the group KB International, and rose to fame after releasing “Dami Duro”, the second single from‘Omo Baba Olowo’ (2012).

Within a decade and half, Davido has delivered several hit records, including five studio albums; Omo Baba Olowo (2012),A Good Time (2019),A Better Time (2020),Timeless (2023) and 5ive (2025).

He has secured several nominations and awards on the global stage, with three nominations at the 66th Annual Grammy Awards (2024), including Best Global Music Album for Timeless.

He won Best African Act at the MOBO and was the first African artist to perform live at the ceremony (2017), and has also clinched Best African Act at MTV Europe music award.

On international performances, Davido made headline as the first solo African artist to sell out the 20,000-capacity 02 Arena in London during his historic “City of Davido” concert on Jan 27, 2019.

His hit ‘Blow My Mind’ with Chris Brown became the first music video out of Nigeria to reach two million YouTube views in just 24 hours.

He became the first African artist to get a gold certification in the US as well as Canada in 2020 with his hit single ‘Fall’.

The music superstar made history as the first Afrobeats artist to be featured on the FIFA World Cup official theme song, featuring in “Hayya Hayya(Better Together)”, and performed at the closing ceremony in Qatar.

Davido was named one of the 100 most influential Africans by New African Magazine (2019), and featured on TIME Magazine’s 100 Next List (2021).

The post Fans celebrate Davido’s 15 years on stage appeared first on NEWSVERGE.

The singer announced the release date for the much anticipated album on his Instagram account-@mrmoney, posting a striking video that shows a stone carver, crafting what appears to be the album’s cover art.

The project marks a significant moment in the artist’s career as it becomes his first full-length body of work under his independent imprint.

According to him, M$NEY features 13 tracks, with a line-up that includes previously released singles such as “Why Love,” “Badman Gangster”, featuring Tiakola, and his latest hit “Worship”,alongside DJ Snake.

The 13-track album is expected to showcase Asake’s signature fusion of Fuji-inspired vocals, Amapiano rhythms, and contemporary Afrobeats, while also exploring new sonic directions.

Our correspondent reports that Asake has released three major studio albums; Mr. Money With The Vibe (2022), Work of Art (2023), and Lungu Boy(2024).

His hit song “Amapiano” was nominated for “Best African Music Performance” category at the 2024 Grammy Award, despite being sung mainly in Yoruba.

The post Singer Asake sets to drop 4th album “M$NEY” on May 1 appeared first on NEWSVERGE.

This is contained in a statement signed by the National President of DJAN, Prince Akim Edeh, and made available to our correspondent on Friday in Abuja.

Edeh said, “It has come to our attention that certain media outfits and other digital platforms have circulated a graphic combination of Burna Boy and a Disc Jockey who is not a registered member of DJAN.”

According to him, Disc Jockey is falsely associating our association with a “ban” placed on Burna Boy’s music.

“DJAN strongly dissociates itself from these reports. We did not, and have no intention to, ban the music of Burna Boy or any other artist.

“We categorically condemn the unauthorised use of the DJAN official logo as a watermark on these misleading graphics. This is a gross misuse of our intellectual property aimed at giving credence to misinformation.”

The DJAN president advised the media outfits and all other media platforms spreading the false narrative to issue necessary corrections.

According to him, the DJAN has noted with grave concern reports surrounding a recent incident involving a Disc Jockey and Burna Boy.

“As a body dedicated to the growth and integrity of the entertainment industry, we maintain a firm and unwavering stance against any form of violence or physical confrontation.

“We are currently monitoring the situation and await the conclusion of any ongoing. investigations.

“DJAN remains committed to fostering a healthy, collaborative environment between all practitioners and performing artists within the music space,” The DJAN boss said.

He urged the public to remain calm and allow the relevant authorities to investigate the matter.

According to him, music is a tool for unity, and we will continue to focus on upholding professional standards and protecting the integrity of the deejaying profession.

The post DJAN dissociates itself from ban of Burna Boy’s music appeared first on NEWSVERGE.

The film, which is distributed by FilmOne Entertainment, achieved the milestone shortly after its release, drawing audiences to cinemas nationwide.

Aba Blues, set in 1989 Aba following the Nigerian Civil War, follows Amara (Angel Anosike) whose marriage is tested by the return of her former boyfriend, exploring themes of love, ambition, and nostalgia.

In a statement shared on its official Instagram page, the film distributor expressed appreciation for the support received from viewers across the country.

“Thank you Nigeria for a great opening weekend,” the company said while encouraging more cinema goers to see the film.

It noted that the movie is currently showing in cinemas nationwide and continues to attract attention from audiences.

It was reported that the movie has generated growing interest among movie lovers, contributing to its strong debut performance at the box office.

With its current momentum and ongoing nationwide screenings, the film is expected to maintain steady patronage in the coming weeks.

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