Our news section offers a comprehensive handle on the creative ecosystem by providing a space for sharing information and a resource base for researchers and archivists.
We receive monthly, on the average, 20 news releases from writers and publishers, musical artistes and music labels, events promoters and festival organisers and other literary magazines requesting our help in sharing their news.
This has placed us in a unique position as a clearing house and warehouse of information and ideas.
It is also a measure of our reach and significance in the ecosystem.
By featuring trending news and stories while covering events and productions, we provide those seeking cultural news and immersion a one-stop-shop that offers a finger on the pulse of the zeitgeist. It is a labour of love and we are committed to it.
This year we covered books and arts festivals, reported from the Ake and London book fairs, covered art exhibitions at 1.54 and the London Fringe, music concerts at the Royal Albert Hall and more, then shared news on forthcoming books, music, movies, theatre productions, art exhibitions, etc.
Here is a quick run-down of a few:
Rema has achieved unprecedented success on Spotify, claiming the title of the most globally exported artiste in Nigeria on Spotify’s Wrapped list. His collaboration with Selena Gomez, “Calm Down,” made history by becoming the first African artiste to reach one billion streams. This achievement propelled the track to the top 10 chart of the most streamed recordings globally on Spotify, solidifying the Nigerian music sensation’s role as the global ambassador for afrobeats… Continue reading
Apple Music has unveiled the most streamed song in Nigeria for 2023, shedding light on the nation’s musical preferences. Omah Lay claimed the top spot with his chart-topping hit “Soso,” featured in his debut album “Boy Alone,” which garnered widespread acclaim. The tracking period, spanning November 2022 to October 31, 2023, showcased the enduring popularity of Omah Lay’s music… Continue reading
Akeem Lasisi is set to break new ground with his upcoming exhibition, “African Citations,” scheduled for December 10 at the prestigious MUSON Centre in Lagos. In an exclusive interview with fellow art enthusiast Ropo Ewenla, the renowned artist shared his ambitious vision for the event, emphasising its potential to revolutionise the perception of poetry… Continue reading
Paul Lynch has won the 2023 Booker Prize for his novel Prophet Song. The novel by the Irish author is set in a future Ireland under oppressive rule and explores the impact of civil war on families. Lynch’s win has been celebrated by the literary community, with many praising his ability to capture the social and political anxieties of our moment so compellingly… Continue reading
In a thrilling revelation on Monday, November 20, the Museum of the African Diaspora (MoAD) unveiled Eloghosa Osunde, the author of Vagabonds!, as the distinguished finalist for its second annual African Literary Award. This prestigious accolade recognises Osunde’s exceptional literary prowess, applauding a work that transcends borders and enriches the global understanding of African lives and storytelling… Continue reading
The Aké Arts and Book Festival in Lagos continues to captivate audiences, promising an even more enriching experience on Saturday, November 25. The second day of the festival showcased a dynamic blend of book chats, insightful panel discussions, and a delightful mix of literary and cultural expressions… Continue reading
The 11th edition of the Aké Arts and Book Festival commenced in Lagos on Thursday, November 23 with an air of anticipation and cultural vibrancy. The opening ceremony, held under the theme: “Blood Ties” at the BON Hotel Ikeja Residence in GRA Ikeja, Lagos brought together a diverse array of attendees, including renowned authors, artists and literature enthusiasts… Continue reading
Nigerian Afrobeats superstar Burna Boy and Rema have made history emerging the first-ever winners in their categories at the 2023 Billboard Music Awards (BMAs) on Sunday at Truist Park in Atlanta, Georgia, USA. Burna Boy swooped the ‘Top Afrobeats Artiste’ award ahead of fellow Nigerians Wizkid and Tems. Reacting to his latest win at the Billboard Afrobeats awards, Burna Boy dedicated the gong to African artistes … Continue reading
The 11th edition of the highly anticipated Aké Arts and Book Festival (AABF) promises a unique experience for attendees from November 22nd to 25th, 2023. This year’s theme, “Blood Ties,” say the organisers, will be the focal point of the 2023 Aké Review, delving into the intricate web of family dynamics, relationships, loss and unity… Continue reading
Snoop Dogg, the iconic rapper known for his love of smoking, has declared a major lifestyle change at the age of 52. Via a recent Instagram post, Snoop announced his decision to give up smoking, emphasizing the significance of this shift after thoughtful consideration and family discussions. While the announcement sparked a wave of reactions from his followers, some expressing scepticism and comparing it to April Fools’ pranks, others offered support and encouragement for the rapper’s endeavour… Continue reading
Teju Cole’s Tremor has secured a spot on Time’s prestigious list of 100 Must-Read Books of 2023. In this captivating novel, Cole delves into the life of Tunde, a Harvard professor of Nigerian descent, whose world is shaken by the unexpected death of a barely known colleague. As the university dean delivers the news dispassionately, Tunde embarks on a profound quest to unravel the essence of true existence… Continue reading
Davido has made history with three Grammy nominations for the upcoming 2024 Grammy Awards. The Nigerian Afrobeats sensation’s latest album, Timeless, earned him a nomination in the Best Global Album category. Additionally, his track “Unavailable* is in the running for Best African Performance, while “Feel” has been recognised in the Best Global Music Performance category… Continue reading
The Screen Actors Guild-American Federation of Television and Radio Artists (Sag-Aftra) has unanimously agreed to a tentative deal with the Alliance of Motion Picture and TV Producers (AMPTP) to bring an end to a crippling four-month strike. This agreement signals a pivotal moment for the film and television world and a significant victory for the union’s members… Continue reading
The art world is abuzz as ART X Lagos 2023: The Dialogue opens its doors to art enthusiasts, literature aficionados, film buffs and music lovers. This special edition of ART X Lagos has been enchanting visitors since November 2 with an exciting multi-disciplinary programme, showcasing an array of specially curated projects, exhibitions and a select group of invited galleries… Continue reading
