This week’s entertainment highlights feature exciting news and updates in the entertainment industry. Additionally, Spotify releases the most streamed artists in Africa, showcasing Nigeria’s finest talents topping the charts.

Spotify highlights Burna Boy, Asake, Omah Lay, and Davido as most streamed artistes in Nigeria and sub-Saharan Africa

Numerous Nigerian artists achieved top positions as the most streamed in sub-Saharan Africa, setting records and earning significant recognition throughout the year. Spotify unveiled the most streamed artist of the year in Nigeria on its Instagram handle. 

Burna Boy, Grammy-award winner, secured the second spot in sub-Saharan Africa, following Canadian Hip-Hop artist Drake. Asake claimed the third spot, recognised as the most streamed artist in Nigeria for his sophomore album “Work Of Art.” Davido, driven by his record-breaking album ‘Timeless,’ took the fourth spot as the most streamed album in sub-Saharan Africa on Spotify in 2023. Omah Lay secured the fifth position with hits such as ‘Soso’ and ‘Reason,’ and Rema claimed the seventh spot with the global success of ‘Calm Down.’ Asake, Burna Boy, Davido, Seyi Vibez, and Omah Lay comprised the top five most streamed artists in Nigeria on Spotify, with Asake leading the list.

Dbanj cleared from controversial rape & fraud allegations of 2020

Nigerian singer, Dapo Oyebanjo, popularly known as D’banj, has officially been cleared of rape and N-Power fraud allegations by the Nigeria Police Force and the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission.

D’banj has been cleared of rape and fraud allegations by both the police and the anti-graft agency, as detailed in reports presented before the District Court of Abuja by lawyer Toheeb Lawal. The police investigation, initiated in 2020, found no evidence to substantiate the rape claim, and the ICPC, in a separate inquiry in late 2022, declared the singer innocent of any fraud related to the N-Power Programme. The singer, according to the lawyer, was never a government official, had no access to government funds, and did not receive payment for supporting the N-power campaign.

Nollywood actor Lateef Oladimeji bags honourary doctorate

Nollywood actor & filmmaker Lateef Oladimeji has been awarded an honorary doctorate in art and culture by a university in Benin Republic. The actor shared the news via his Instagram handle, expressing his emotions in the caption. A video accompanying the post captured the moment he received the honour for his significant contributions to his field. This recognition adds Lateef Oladimeji to the list of Nigerian celebrities, including Mr Macaroni and reality star Frodd, who recently received honorary doctorate degrees in their respective fields. 

Rema suspends December shows over health issues

Afrobeats artist Rema has decided to cancel all his December 2023 shows to focus on his health. He announced this via his Instagram handle.

He expressed regret about not performing in December due to health concerns but assured fans of his return to the stage in 2024 after taking time to recuperate. 

Flavour releases eighth album ‘African Royalty’

Afrobeats artist Flavour has released his eighth album, ‘African Royalty,’ dedicated to authentically showcasing the cultural richness of the Igbo heritage. Following the success of his hit single ‘Big Baller,’ the album takes listeners on a captivating journey across native sounds, blending traditional beats, contemporary influences, and evocative chants. 

Flavour showcases musical mastery, confirming his status in ‘African Royalty,’ a celebration of diverse African cultures. Hits such as ‘Big Baller,’ ‘Woman King,’ ‘Her Excellency,’ and ‘Fall In Love’ reveal his timeless love ballads and overall musical brilliance.