The Nation Newspaper

Tag: Ayra Starr

  • Grammys: Afrobeats defeat triggers fans’ anger

    Grammys: Afrobeats defeat triggers fans’ anger

    As the dust settles on the 68th Grammy Awards in Los Angeles, many Nigerian music enthusiasts are still expressing disappointment after Afrobeats superstars including Davido, Burna Boy, Wizkid and Ayra Starr, failed to win the gramophone at music’s biggest night. OLAITAN GANIU writes.

    It was South African popstar, Laura ‘Tyla’ Seethal, who took the shine, taking home the Best African Music Performance award for her hit single titled, ‘Push 2 Start’.

    The 24-year-old’s victory marks her second consecutive win in the category since it was introduced in 2024. Tyla is the first artiste in Africa to achieve this distinction.

    “First of all, shout-out to young African creative out there. I’m so excited to see more of us over here,” Tyla said at the backstage after accepting the award.

    She added, “I want to thank God. I want to thank my management team, family and fans. I’m so bless! Winning the Grammys, two out of two.”

    Tyla’s song, which blended amapiano and pop influences, outperformed nominations from some of Afrobeats’ biggest exports in the Academy’s voting.

    “From the movement we recorded ‘Push 2 Start’, we knew it going to be magical. It’s such a special song,” she enthused.

    The win has reignited debate across the street of Nigeria, industry observers and fans expressing a mix of frustration.

    Some claimed the outcome was unfair given Afrobeats’ global reach, shows and streaming dominance. While others call for systemic change in how African music is positioned at global awards.

    Read Also: Why I was banned alongside co-actors in 2005 – Actress Omotola

    A music lover, Adediwura James, said “Grammy has dimmed Afrobeats stars again. That award show has officially lost its credibility in front of Nigerians.”

    “Nigerians were hyped, praying for that historic sweep or at least one trophy for the big three. Instead, it’s another year of ‘close but no cigar’. Afrobeats is still global, but the Grammy gods said ‘not today’. How are you feeling about it? Disappointed? ” another fan, Precious Eze expressed.

    For Victor Oyi, it time to embrace and support our local awards. “They threw Afrobeats in the mud,” he said,

    “This Tyla song is not worth a Headies, not to talk of a Grammy Award. 

    Some reactions were more daring, with fans suggesting the need for African centred award platforms.

    “Let’s start African Grammys abeg,” upcoming singer, Banjo Adedayo expressed.

    However, not all voices framed the result negatively. Several commentators acknowledged that being nominated alongside global stars is a win.

    Industry experts call for strategic engagement

    Veteran Disc Jockey, DJ Big N urged the Nigerians to channel their anger into action.

    He encouraged them to join the Recording Academy as voting members, arguing that deeper involvement could influence outcomes from within.

    “Yes, Nigerians are disappointed about the Grammy outcome, and I feel that too,” he began.

    “But let’s turn that energy into action. Let’s get involved and make our votes count! Better luck next year.”

    He cited examples of global icons who have used their positions to extend influence beyond the awards nights.

    He added that. “It stings deeply that so many talented Nigerians were nominated but didn’t bring the Grammy home this time. But here’s the truth: legends like Angelique Kidjo and Youssou N’Dour, have shown us the power of being involved beyond just the award night. She’s at those seminars, those events, making her presence felt.”

    Controversial artiste, Speed Darlington mocked perceived politics in award outcomes.

    “No Diddy, No Grammy,” he remarks, alluding to the idea that musical authority could be influenced by entrenched industry networks.

    Also weighed in is socialite, Cubana Chief Priest, as he took to his Instagram page to post a picture of himself with Afrobeats artiste, Davido.

    In his comment, he encouraged the OBO singer to move on and create focus on his craft despite the loss.

    “Oyibo dey do everything possible to break a strong man so he can do their demonic shit with them, but he will never do it. Heads up, brother, open the bag and drop another hot one for us. E no dey finish, Gbedu na water.”

    Way forward

    Beyond the backlash, some music practitioners are reframing how success is defined for Afrobeats globally.

    Music journalist and podcaster, Joey Akan advised Afrobeats’ artistes to be more original and shun foreign approval.

    “Foreigners saw you making music for your home, fell in love with your novel authenticity, essence, and how it moved your people,” Akan said.

    “Once they started giving you money, you decided to ruin your working formula, deny and disparage your people, and cater exclusively to foreigners. They in turn routinely rejected this new and unfamiliar thing you’ve created for them.

    “They’ve stopped giving you money, and now you’re all back to square one, making music for Nigerians, exactly what you were supposed to do.

    According to him, the story of ‘Afrobeats to the world’ is one of self-denial, creative misdirection and a lack of cultural commitment to ourselves.”

    Veteran Music producer and singer, Cobhams Asuquo suggested that while Grammy recognition is desirable, it should not be the sole measure of achievement.

    “I think Grammy is using Nigerians to boost the GDP of Los Angeles. It’s like a carrot dangling in front of us, and it goes away. I think we need to build something that is ours.

    “Let’s grow something that can make other people converge in our space,” he said.

    Similarly, DJ Big N echoed a broader perspective, emphasising that even without a Nigerian win for Best Afrobeat Song of the Year, the impact of Afrobeat on the world map lives on.

  • Afrobeats stars dominate MOBO Awards’ nomination

    Afrobeats stars dominate MOBO Awards’ nomination

    Some of Nigeria’s biggest Afrobeats exports including Ayra Starr, Wizkid, Tiwa Savage, Davido and Rema have been nominated for the 2026 Music of Black Origin (MOBO) Awards, reaffirming the country’s growing influence on the global music scene.

    Others are Adekunle Gold and Shallipopi.

    The MOBO Awards, founded in 1996, recognises excellence across a wide range of genres including Afrobeats, hip-hop, R&B, jazz, gospel, electronic and alternative music.

    Read Also: No alternative to Tinubu in 2027, Oyo APC guber aspirant Oladele tells Nigerians

    Among the Nigerian nominees, Ayra Starr stands out with two major nominations in different categories.

    The 23-year-old singer is up for Best African Music Act and Best International Act where she will compete with global stars including Cardi B, Gunna, Kehlani, and Vybz Kartel.

    Since her debut, Ayra has continued to push boundaries with chart-topping releases and international collaborations. This successful outcome is what positioned her as one of Africa’s most influential young voices.

    The 2026 MOBO Awards ceremony is scheduled to take place on March 26, 2026 at the Co-op Live Arena in Manchester.

    The event is expected to attract music executives, artistes and fans from across the globe.

    “2026 is extra special as the MOBO Organisation marks 30 years of shaping culture, championing talent, and creating unforgettable moments,” the organisers said in a statement.

    MOBOs have played a pivotal role in shaping Black music culture in the UK and beyond, spotlighting emerging talents while honouring established stars over the years.

  • Wizkid is a ‘living legend’ – Ayra Starr

    Wizkid is a ‘living legend’ – Ayra Starr

    Afrobeats singer Ayra Starr has hailed Grammy-winning singer Wizkid as a “living legend” and credited him with shaping her music and personal style.

    The 23-year-old Mavin Records artist revealed that Wizkid’s understated confidence has had a profound impact on her approach to her career.

    In a recent interview at the Grammy Museum, Ayra Starr stated that Wizkid’s calm and composed demeanour has taught her that genuine self-assurance doesn’t require constant validation or loud declarations.

    “Wiz is a legend, we all know that! He’s a living legend. He made me understand that confidence is not noise; he’s just very calm as a human being, very present and confident in his mission in this life, and that made me learn a lot,” she said.

    The professional partnership between Ayra Starr and Wizkid has yielded impressive results, with collaborations like “2 Sugar” and “Gimme Dat.”

  • Ayra Starr confirms relocation to New York City

    Ayra Starr confirms relocation to New York City

    Afrobeats sensation Ayra Starr has confirmed her relocation to New York City to boost her global career.

    The 23-year-old singer has been a resident of the American city for less than two months, citing its familiar energy and large African community as key attractions.

    She revealed the news during a recent video interview, stating that the city’s resemblance to Lagos, her hometown, made the transition seamless.

    According to her, New York reminds her of Lagos, with its similar energy, speed, and cultural rhythm, admitting to finding comfort in the city’s African diaspora community.

    She also noted that there’s a huge Nigerian presence, making it feel like home.

    “New York reminds me so much of Lagos. So it feels like home. There are a lot of Nigerians here. There’s a huge African diaspora here, so it feels like home,” she said

  • FULL LIST: Burna Boy, Wizkid, Davido, Ayra Starr, others nominated for 2026 Grammy awards

    FULL LIST: Burna Boy, Wizkid, Davido, Ayra Starr, others nominated for 2026 Grammy awards

    The 2026 Grammy Awards have announced their nominations, showcasing a diverse range of talented artists.

    Kendrick Lamar tops the list with nine nominations, followed closely by Lady Gaga with seven.

    The ceremony will take place on February 1, 2026, at the Crypto.com Arena in Los Angeles.

    African artists have made a significant impact, with Burna Boy, Davido, Omah Lay, Ayra Starr, and Wizkid all receiving nominations.

    Burna Boy leads the African contingent with two nominations: Best African Music Performance for “Love” and Best Global Music Album for “No Sign of Weakness.”

    Other notable nominations include Sabrina Carpenter’s second consecutive Album of the Year nod for “Man’s Best Friend” and Lady Gaga’s fifth Album of the Year nod for “MAYHEM.”

    The Best New Artist category features emerging stars like KATSEYE, Olivia Dean, and Addison Rae.

    The 2026 Grammys also introduce two new categories: Best Traditional Country Album and Best Album Cover.

    READ ALSO: ​FULL FACTS: New U.S. bill titled: “Nigeria Religious Freedom Accountability Act of 2025” by Senator Ted Cruz

    See the full list of nominees below:

    Album of the Year

    Bad Bunny – DeBÍ TiRAR MáS FOToS
    Justin Bieber – Swag
    Sabrina Carpenter – Man’s Best Friend
    Clipse – Let God Sort Em Out
    Lady Gaga – Mayhem
    Kendrick Lamar – GNX
    Leon Thomas – Mutt
    Tyler, the Creator – Chromakopia

    Record of the Year

    Bad Bunny – “DtMF”
    Sabrina Carpenter – “Manchild”
    Doechii – “Anxiety”
    Billie Eilish – “Wildflower”
    Lady Gaga – “Abracadabra”
    Kendrick Lamar with SZA – “Luther”
    Chappell Roan – “The Subway”
    Rosé and Bruno Mars – “APT.”

    Song of the Year

    Lady Gaga – “Abracadabra”
    Doechii – “Anxiety”
    Rosé and Bruno Mars – “APT.”
    “DtMF” – Bad Bunny
    Huntr/x (Ejae, Audrey Nuna, Rei Ami) – “Golden” (from KPop Demon Hunters)
    Kendrick Lamar with SZA – “Luther”
    Sabrina Carpenter – “Manchild”
    Billie Eilish – “Wildflower”

    Best African Music Performance

    Burna Boy – “Love”
    Davido Featuring Omah Lay – “With You”
    Eddy Kenzo & Mehran Matin – “Hope & Love”
    Ayra Starr featuring Wizkid – “Gimme Dat”
    Tyla – “Push 2 Start”

    Best Global Music Performance

    Bad Bunny – “EoO”
    Ciro Hurtado – “Cantando en el Camino”
    Angélique Kidjo – “Jerusalema”
    Yeisy Rojas – “Inmigrante Y Que?”
    Shakti – “Shrini’s Dream” (Live)
    Anoushka Shankar featuring Alam Khan & Sarathy Korwar – “Daybreak”

    Best New Artist

    Olivia Dean
    KATSEYE
    The Marias
    Addison Rae
    Sombr
    Leon Thomas
    Alex Warren
    Lola Young

    Songwriter of the Year, Non-Classical

    Amy Allen
    Edgar Barrera
    Jessie Jo Dillon
    Tobias Jesso Jr.
    Laura Veltz

    Producer of the Year, Non-Classical

    Dan Auerbach
    Cirkut
    Dijon
    Blake Mills
    Sounwave

    Best Pop Solo Performance

    Justin Bieber – “Daisies”
    Sabrina Carpenter – “Manchild”
    Lady Gaga – “Disease”
    Chappell Roan – “The Subway”
    Lola Young – “Messy”

    Best Pop Vocal Album

    Justin Bieber – Swag
    Sabrina Carpenter – Man’s Best Friend
    Miley Cyrus – Something Beautiful
    Lady Gaga – Mayhem
    Teddy Swims – I’ve Tried Everything But Therapy (Part 2)

    Best Pop Duo/Group Performance

    Cynthia Erivo & Ariana Grande – “Defying Gravity”
    Huntr/x (Ejae, Audrey Nuna, Rei Ami) – “Golden”
    KATSEYE – “Gabriela”
    Rosé and Bruno Mars – “APT.”
    SZA with Kendrick Lamar – “30 for 30”

    Best Dance Pop Recording

    Selena Gomez & benny blanco – “Bluest Flame”
    Lady Gaga – “Abracadabra”
    Zara Larsson – “Midnight Sun”
    Tate McRae – “Just Keep Watching”
    PinkPantheress – “Illegal”

    Best Traditional Pop Vocal Album

    Laila Biali – Wintersongs
    Jennifer Hudson – The Gift Of Love
    Elton John & Brandi Carlile – Who Believes In Angels?
    Lady Gaga – Harlequin
    Laufey – A Matter Of Time
    Barbra Streisand – The Secret Of Life: Partners, Volume 2

    Best Dance Electronic Album

    FKA twigs – Eusexua
    Fred again.. – Ten Days
    PinkPantheress – Fancy That
    Rüfüs Du Sol – Inhale / Exhale
    Skrillex – Fuck U Skrillex You Think Ur Andy Warhol But Ur Not!! <3

    Best Dance/Electronic Recording

    Disclosure & Anderson .Paak – “No Cap”
    Fred again.., Skepta, & PlaqueBoyMax – “Victory Lap”
    Kaytranada – “Space Invader”
    Skrillex – “Voltage”
    Tame Impala – “End of Summer”

    Best Rock Album

    Deftones – Private Music
    Haim – I Quit
    Linkin Park – From Zero
    Turnstile – Never Enough
    Yungblud – Idols

    Best Rock Song

    Nine Inch Nails – “As Alive As You Need Me To Be”
    Sleep Token – “Caramel
    Hayley Williams – “Glum”
    Turnstile – “Never Enough”
    Yungblud – “Zombie”

    Best Metal Performance

    Dream Theater – “Night Terror”
    Ghost – “Lachryma”
    Sleep Token – “Emergence”
    Spiritbox – “Soft Spine”
    Turnstile – “Birds”

    Best Rock Performance

    Amyl and The Sniffers – “U Should Not Be Doing That”
    Linkin Park – “The Emptiness Machine”
    Turnstile – “Never Enough”
    Hayley Williams – “Mirtazapine”
    Yungblud featuring Nuno Bettencourt, Frank Bello, Adam Wakeman, II – “Changes” (Live From Villa Park, Back To The Beginning)

    Best Alternative Music Performance

    Bon Iver – “Everything Is Peaceful Love”
    The Cure – “Alone”
    Turnstile – “Seein’ Stars”
    Wet Leg – “Mangetout”
    Hayley Williams – “Parachute”

    Best Alternative Music Album

    Bon Iver – SABLE, fABLE
    The Cure – Songs Of A Lost World
    Tyler, The Creator – Don’t Tap the Glass
    Wet Leg – Moisturizer
    Hayley Williams – Ego Death At A Bachelorette Party

    Best R&B Album

    Givēon – Beloved
    Coco Jones – Why Not More?
    Ledisi – The Crown
    Teyana Taylor – Escape Room
    Leon Thomas – Mutt

    Best R&B Song

    Kehlani – “Folded”
    Summer Walker – “Heart Of A Woman”
    Chris Brown Featuring Bryson Tiller – “It Depends”
    Durand Bernarr – “Overqualified”
    Leon Thomas – “Yes It Is”

    Best R&B Performance

    Justin Bieber – “Yukon”
    Chris Brown Featuring Bryson Tiller – “It Depends”
    Kehlani – “Folded”
    Leon Thomas – “Mutt” (Live From NPR’s Tiny Desk)
    Summer Walker – “Heart Of A Woman”

    Best Traditional R&B Performance

    Durand Bernarr – “Here We Are”
    Lalah Hathaway – “Uptown”
    Ledisi – “Love You Too”
    SZA – “Crybaby”
    Leon Thomas – “Vibes Don’t Lie”

    Best Progressive R&B Album

    Durand Bernarr – Bloom
    Bilal – Adjust Brightness
    Destin Conrad – Love on Digital
    Flo – Access All Areas
    Terrace Martin & Kenyon Dixon – Come As You Are

    Best Spoken Word Poetry Album

    Queen Sheba – A Hurricane in Heels: healed people don’t act like that (partially recorded live @City Winery & other places)
    Marc Marcel – Black Shaman
    Omari Hardwick & Anthony Hamilton – Pages
    Saul Williams, Carlos Niño & Friends – Saul Williams meets Carlos Niño & Friends At Treepeople
    Mad Skillz – Words For Days Vol. 1

    Best Rap Album

    Clipse – Let God Sort Em Out
    GloRilla – Glorious
    JID – God Does Like Ugly
    Kendrick Lamar – GNX
    Tyler, The Creator – Chromakopia

    Best Rap Song

    Doechii – “Anxiety”
    Clipse featuring John Legend and Voices of Fire – “The Birds Don’t Sing”
    Tyler, The Creator featuring GloRilla, Sexyy Red, and Lil Wayne – “Sticky”
    GloRilla – “TGIF”
    Kendrick Lamar featuring Lefty Gunplay – “TV Off”

    Best Melodic Rap Performance

    Fridayy featuring Meek Mill – “Proud Of Me”
    JID featuring Ty Dolla $ign & 6Lack – “Wholeheartedly”
    Kendrick Lamar with SZA – “Luther”
    Terrace Martin and Kenyon Dixon featuring Rapsody – “WeMaj”
    PartyNextDoor and Drake – “Somebody Loves Me”

    Best Rap Performance

    Cardi B – “Outside”
    Clipse featuring Kendrick Lamar and Pharrell Williams – “Chains & Whips”
    Doechii – “Anxiety”
    Kendrick Lamar featuring Lefty Gunplay – “TV Off”
    Tyler, The Creator featuring Teezo Touchdown – “Darling, I”

    Best Música Urbana Album

    Bad Bunny – DeBÍ TiRAR MáS FOToS
    J Balvin – Mixteip
    Feid – Ferxxo Vol X: Sagrado
    Nicki Nicole – Naiki
    Trueno – Eub Deluxe
    Yandel – Sinfónico (En Vivo)

    Best Música Mexicana Album (Including Tejano)

    Fuerza Regida, Grupo Frontera – Mala Mía
    Grupo Frontera – Y Lo Que Viene
    Paola Jara – Sin Rodeos
    Carín León – Palabra De To’s (Seca)
    Bobby Pulido and Friends Una Tuya Y Una Mía – Por La Puerta Grande (En Vivo)

    Best Latin Pop Album

    Rauw Alejandro – Cosa Nuestra
    Andrés Cepeda – Bogotá (Deluxe)
    Karol G – Tropicoqueta
    Natalia Lafourcade – Cancionera
    Alejandro Sanz – ¿Y ahora qué?

    Best Latin Rock or Alternative Album

    Aterciopelados – Genes Rebeldes
    Astropical – Astropical
    Ca7riel and Paco Amoroso – Papota
    Los Wizzards – Algorhythm
    Fito Paez – Novela

    Best Tropical Latin Album

    Rubén Blades, Roberto Delgado & Orquesta – Fotografías
    Gloria Estefan – Raíces
    Grupo Niche – Clásicos 1.0
    Alain Pérez – Bingo
    Gilberto Santa Rosa – Debut y Segunda Tanda, Vol. 2

    Best Traditional Country Album

    Charley Crockett – Dollar A Day
    Lukas Nelson – American Romance
    Willie Nelson – Oh What A Beautiful World
    Margo Price – Hard Headed Woman
    Zach Top – Ain’t In It For My Health

    Best Contemporary Country Album

    Kelsea Ballerini – Patterns
    Tyler Childers – Snipe Hunter
    Eric Church – Evangeline Vs. The Machine
    Jelly Roll – Beautifully Broken
    Miranda Lambert – Postcards From Texas

    Best Country Solo Performance

    Tyler Childers – “Nose On The Grindstone”
    Shaboozey – “Good News”
    Chris Stapleton – “Bad As I Used To Be”
    Zach Top – “I Never Lie”
    Lainey Wilson – “Somewhere Over Laredo”

    Best Country Duo/Group Performance

    Miranda Lambert and Chris Stapleton – “A Song To Sing”
    Reba McEntire, Miranda Lambert, Lainey Wilson – “Trailblazer”
    Margo Price and Tyler Childers – “Love Me Like You Used To Do”
    Shaboozey and Jelly Roll – “Amen”
    George Strait and Chris Stapleton – “Honky Tonk Hall Of Fame”

    Best Country Song

    Tyler Childers – “Bitin’ List”
    Shaboozey – “Good News”
    Zach Top – “I Never Lie”
    Lainey Wilson – “Somewhere Over Laredo”
    Miranda Lambert and Chris Stapleton – “A Song To Sing”

    Best American Roots Performance

    Jon Batiste featuring Randy Newman – “Lonely Avenue”
    I’m With Her – “Ancient Light”
    Jason Isbell – “Crimson And Clay”
    Alison Krauss and Union Station – “Richmond On The James”
    Mavis Staples – “Beautiful Strangers”

    Best Americana Performance

    Sierra Hull – “Boom”
    Maggie Rose & Grace Potter – “Poison In My Well”
    Mavis Staples – “Godspeed”
    Molly Tuttle – “That’s Gonna Leave A Mark”
    Jesse Welles – “Horses”

    Best American Roots Song

    I’m With Her – “Ancient Light”
    Jon Batiste – “Big Money”
    Jason Isbell – “Foxes In The Snow”
    Jesse Welles – “Middle”
    Sierra Hull – “Spitfire”

    Best Americana Album

    Jon Batiste – Big Money
    Larkin Poe – Bloom
    Willie Nelson – Last Leaf On The Tree
    Molly Tuttle – So Long Little Miss Sunshine
    Jesse Welles – Middle

    Best Bluegrass Album

    Michael Cleveland & Jason Carter – Carter & Cleveland
    Sierra Hull – A Tip Toe High Wire
    Alison Krauss & Union Station – Arcadia
    The Steeldrivers – Outrun
    Billy Strings – Highway Prayers

    Best Traditional Blues Album

    Buddy Guy – Ain’t Done With The Blues
    Taj Mahal & Keb’ Mo’ – Room On The Porch
    Maria Muldaur – One Hour Mama: The Blues Of Victoria Spivey
    Charlie Musselwhite – Look Out Highway
    Kenny Wayne Shepherd and Bobby Rush – Young Fashioned Ways

    Best Contemporary Blues Album

    Joe Bonamassa – Breakthrough
    Samantha Fish – Paper Doll
    Eric Gales – A Tribute To LJK
    Robert Randolph – Preacher Kids
    Southern Avenue – Family

    Best Folk Album

    Rhiannon Giddens and Justin Robinson – What Did The Blackbird Say To The Crow
    Patty Griffin – Crown Of Roses
    I’m With Her – Wild And Clear And Blue
    Jason Isbell – Foxes In The Snow
    Jesse Welles – Under The Powerlines (April 24 – September 24)

    Best Gospel Performance/Song

    Kirk Franklin – “Do It Again”
    Tasha Cobbs Leonard, John Legend – “Church”
    Jonathan McReynolds & Jamal Roberts – “Still” (Live)
    Pastor Mike Jr – “Amen”
    Cece Winans featuring Shirley Caesar – “Come Jesus Come”

    Best Global Music Album

    Siddhant Bhatia – Sounds Of Kumbha
    Burna Boy – No Sign of Weakness
    Youssou N’Dour – Eclairer le monde – Light the World
    Shakti – Mind Explosion (50th Anniversary Tour Live)
    Anoushka Shankar Featuring Alam Khan & Sarathy Korwar – Chapter III: We Return To Light
    Caetano Veloso And Maria Bethânia – Caetano e Bethânia Ao Vivo

    Best Musical Theater Album

    Buena Vista Social Club
    Death Becomes Her
    Gypsy
    Just In Time
    Maybe Happy Ending

    Best Reggae Album

    Lila Iké – Treasure Self Love
    Vybz Kartel – Heart & Soul
    Keznamdi – Blxxd & Fyah
    Mortimer – From Within
    Jesse Royal – No Place Like Home

    Best Comedy Album

    Bill Burr – Drop Dead Years
    Sarah Silverman – PostMortem
    Ali Wong – Single Lady
    Jamie Foxx – What Had Happened Was…
    Nate Bargatze –Your Friend, Nate Bargatze

    Best Audio Book, Narration, and Storytelling Recording

    Kathy Garver – Elvis, Rocky & Me: The Carol Connors Story
    Trevor Noah – Into The Uncut Grass
    Ketanji Brown Jackson – Lovely One: A Memoir
    Dalai Lama – Meditations: The Reflections Of His Holiness The Dalai Lama
    Fab Morvan – You Know It’s True: The Real Story Of Milli Vanilli

    Best Compilation Soundtrack For Visual Media

    Timothée Chalamet – A Complete Unknown
    Various Artists – F1® The Album
    Various Artists – KPop Demon Hunters
    Various Artists – Sinners
    Various Artists – Wicked

    Best Song Written For Visual Media

    Nine Inch Nails – “As Alive As You Need Me To Be” (from Tron: Ares)
    Huntr/x (Ejae, Audrey Nuna, Rei Ami) – “Golden” (from KPop Demon Hunters)
    Miles Caton – “I Lied to You” (from Sinners)
    Elton John and Brandi Carlile – “Never Too Late” (from Elton John: Never Too Late)
    Jayme Lawson – “Pale, Pale Moon” (from Sinners)
    Rod Wave – “Sinners” (from Sinners)

    Best Score Soundtrack For Visual Media (Includes Film and Television)

    John Powell – How to Train Your Dragon
    Theodore Shapiro – Severance: Season 2
    Ludwig Göransson – Sinners
    John Powell & Stephen Schwartz – Wicked
    Kris Bowers – The Wild Robot

    Best Music Video

    Sade – “Young Lion”
    Sabrina Carpenter – “Manchild”
    Clipse – “So Be It”
    Doechii – “Anxiety”
    OK Go – “Love”

    Best Music Film

    Devo – Devo
    Raye – Live at the Royal Albert Hall
    Diane Warren – Relentless
    John Williams – Music by John Williams
    Pharrell Williams – Piece by Piece

    Best Album Cover

    Tyler, The Creator – Chromakopia (Shaun Llewellyn & Luis “Panch” Perez)
    Djo – The Crux (William Wesley II)
    Bad Bunny – Debí Tirar Más Fotos (Benito Antonio Martinez Ocasio)
    Perfume Genius – Glory (Cody Critcheloe & Andrew J.S.)
    Wet Leg – Moisturizer (Hester Chambers, Ellis Durand, Henry Holmes, Matt de Jong, Jamie-James Medina, Joshua Mobaraki & Rhian Teasdale)

  • How I discovered, signed Ayra Starr – Don Jazzy

    How I discovered, signed Ayra Starr – Don Jazzy

    Music executive Don Jazzy has revealed how he discovered and approached his signee Ayra Starr.

    In an interview, Don Jazzy said he stumbled on Ayra Starr’s Instagram posts and was impressed by her potential.

    According to him, he reached out to a young Gen Z contact, asking if they knew anyone with singing talent in their school or friend circle and the contact sent him several Instagram pages, including Ayra Starr’s page.

    He stated that what caught his attention was a freestyle video Ayra Starr posted where she discussed themes relevant to Gen Z experiences.

    Don Jazzy said he was drawn to her youthful energy and the freshness she brought to Afrobeat music and he slid into her DM, introducing himself and expressing interest in working with her.

    Although she didn’t respond immediately, he said he also reached out to her brother to facilitate communication.

    He said: “I don’t know whether it’s a genius idea or not. It just felt like the industry needed it, you know what I’m saying. For somebody like Ayra, there was a space for a young teenage Afrobeat superstar from Nigeria that we want to make sure becomes global. So it was very intentional.

    Read Also: UK court drops terrorism charge against Kneecap rapper Mo Chara

    “I saw her, she posted on Instagram and I saw it. For her actually, I reached out to one of these young GenZ Ladies that I follow on the internet that everybody said I like to follow people but anyway, I reached out to one of them.

    “I said, hello. I might not be able to come to like you people schools and things like that to Find some of the talents that people have. In your school or in your circle of friends You don’t have somebody, people that can sing that you know All your friends know that the person can sing and this one, this one, this one, this one You say, in my school we have some people, this one, this one, this one.

    “She sent a couple of Instagram pages of some people That oh look at them and you say I look at them. I said, okay fine. They’re not bad I’ll keep watching them to see how they will move on the social media space And luckily for me, one of those days She now saw a video where I was freestyling and sent it to me.

    “I didn’t respond to her before I went to go and approach. Because I saw that video, the context Yeah, the context, what she was talking about in the video was why did you make me to do this? Why did you make me to, why did you give me the drug that I took? I was like, this girl looks young Yeah, I was like we don’t have any Afrobeat song That talks, that talks about this Gen Z What do you call it, experience or whatever. So I went to her and I entered her DM I said, hello, how are you? Whatever.

    “She didn’t answer me first. I saw her brother. I saw a post that she posted with her brother as well I sent a message as well to her brother”.

  • Burna Boy, Davido, Ayra Starr, others nominated for AFRIMA 2025

    Burna Boy, Davido, Ayra Starr, others nominated for AFRIMA 2025

    The All Africa Music Awards (AFRIMA) has unveiled the nominees for its 2025 edition, displaying a diverse range of talented African artists.

    With a record-breaking 10,717 entries, the competition is set to be fierce.

    Nigerian superstars Burna Boy and Davido lead the pack with five nominations each, including Album of the Year for their respective albums “No Sign of Weakness” and “5ive”.

    They’ll also compete in the Song of the Year and Best Collaboration categories.

    Other notable nominees include Shallipopi, who scored four nominations, including Artiste of the Year and Song of the Year for his collaboration “Laho”.

    Ayra Starr earned two nominations, including Artiste of the Year, where she’ll go up against Burna Boy, Davido, and Moroccan rapper El Grande Toto.

    Other strong contenders include South Africa’s DJ Maphorisa with five nominations, Morocco’s El Grande Toto with five, Senegal’s Mia Guissé with five, and Ghana’s Moliy who also secured five.

    Tanzania’s Diamond Platnumz, South Africa’s Tyla and Eswatini’s Uncle Waffles picked up four nominations each.

    Read Also: AFRIMA 2025 receives record 10,717 entries

    The awards ceremony will take place in Lagos from November 25 to 30, featuring various events such as the AFRIMA Music Village, Africa Music Business Summit, Nominees Party, and the grand finale on November 30.

    The event will be broadcast live to over 84 countries, highlighting African music’s global impact.

    AFRIMA jury member Delani Makhalima praised the nominees, saying, “For years our voices were not heard, but today African music is global. This is AFRIMA, the biggest music entity on the continent.”

    The diversity of nominees, including artists from Nigeria, South Africa, Morocco, Senegal, Ghana, and the diaspora, reflects the richness and global reach of African music.

  • Wizkid king of sexy Afrobeats – Ayra Starr

    Wizkid king of sexy Afrobeats – Ayra Starr

    Grammy-nominated singer Ayra Starr has declared Wizkid the king of Afrobeats, citing his exceptional talent in crafting “sexy Afrobeats”.

    This bold declaration fuels the ongoing debate about the superiority of Afrobeats powerhouses Wizkid, Davido, and Burna Boy, collectively known as the “Big 3”.

    Ayra Starr’s praise for Wizkid stems from their collaboration on her hit song “Gimme Dat”, which she believes showcases Wizkid’s unique sound and style.

    Read Also: Wanni, Handi to perform on BBNAIJA season 10

    According to Ayra Starr, Wizkid’s contribution to “Gimme Dat” was unmatched, with his “sonics and sound” and “chorus pattern” perfectly capturing the essence of sexy Afrobeats.

    She asserted that no one else could have brought the same level of expertise to the song, cementing her opinion that Wizkid is indeed the king of Afrobeats.

    “Nobody else could have been right on that song [‘Gimme Dat’] aside from Wizkid. Even just his sonics and the sound, the chorus pattern feels very Wizkid; it feels very like sexy Afrobeats. And everybody knows Wizkid is the king of sexy Afrobeats,” she said.

  • Ayra Starr denies rumour of boyfriend, family ban in Roc Nation deal

    Ayra Starr denies rumour of boyfriend, family ban in Roc Nation deal

    Afrobeats singer Ayra Starr has denied reports that her contract with Roc Nation, owned by Jay-Z, prohibits her from having a boyfriend or starting a family during the five-year deal.

    The singer debunks the claims on X, questioning the validity of the report with a witty remark, “Does Ayra Starr know about this?”

    Read Also: Ayra Starr performs before Lionel Messi at Coldplay

    She also reposted a tweet that read, “Them lie on top your head for broad daylight,” effectively calling out the report as false.

    The rumours surfaced after Ayra Starr signed a management deal with Roc Nation, which aims to support her global career growth.

    The singer’s response has been met with support from fans, who appreciate her confidence and direct approach in addressing baseless speculation. 

  • Ayra Starr performs before Lionel Messi at Coldplay

    Ayra Starr performs before Lionel Messi at Coldplay

    Ayra Starr has expressed excitement after performing with British band Coldplay at their ‘Music Of All Spheres’ tour at the Hard Rock Stadium in Miami.

    She took the stage as a guest performer midway through the show, delivering high-energy performances of her collaborative hit with Coldplay, “Good Feelings,” and her new song “Hot Body” alongside lead singer Chris Martin.

    Read Also: Mosun Filani responds to fan criticism over role in Wumi Toriola’s film

    The audience’s excitement reached a fever pitch when Lionel Messi and his wife were projected on the screen, sparking wild cheers and screams.

    “I just performed Hot Body on stage with Coldplay!! And Messi was in the audience,” she wrote.