Industry

The Grammy obsession in African music didn’t start with vanity — it started with absence. As local systems fail to support touring, publishing, and long-term careers, global awards have become shortcuts to legitimacy. But what happens when plaques replace platforms?

Brand collaborations are often framed as career milestones, but many Nigerian artists discover too late that visibility comes with hidden costs. This piece examines why brand deals hurt Nigerian artists more than they help — and what to evaluate before signing anything that could quietly cap long-term growth.

Most concerts don’t fail on stage — they fail in the story that follows. This piece breaks down how artists prepare for concert reviews, from media access to documentation and storytelling, and why planning before the show determines what gets written after.

No rap in Billboard Top 40: the Oct 25, 2025 Hot 100 had zero rap songs in its Top 40. This is a chart-rules + timing story, not the end of hip-hop.

Radio, streaming and social each play a different role in breaking Nigerian hits. Read a quick, practical guide with two desk-verified case studies and a manager’s playbook for where to spend promo cash.

Here’s the gist: Spotify announced an “artist-first” AI program with majors and indie reps on Oct 16, 2025. It promises choice and compensation — but creators need clear consent, revenue rules and auditability for it to be real.

Albania’s Prime Minister Edi Rama has sparked headlines after claiming his AI “minister,” Diella, is “pregnant” with 83 AI assistants — one for each Socialist MP. Beyond the theatrics, this move offers a rare look at how governments may soon blend politics, power, and artificial intelligence.

Blaqbonez responds to circulating allegations, calling them false and linked to industry rivalries, as he vows transparency and legal action.

Sean “Diddy” Combs was handed a 50-month prison term on October 3, 2025, after convictions on transportation-related counts. We explain the facts and the likely industry fallout for labels, promoters and brands.