Afrobeats artist Gostav has released a new single titled “All the Way” “All The Way” is a high-energy Afrobeat track with an urban touch, capturing the intensity of love and devotion. On the track, Gostav tells the story of Omotena, a passionate and possessive woman who craves undivided attention.
With driving rhythms, an unforgettable hook, and a beat that commands movement, Gostav declares his willingness to go all the way for love, no matter the obstacles.
Produced by Prod. Liberty, the track blends Afrobeat grooves with a raw and dynamic sound, delivering an undeniable hit for the dancefloor and the streets alike.
The collaboration with Prod. Liberty was sparked on Instagram when Gostav was inspired by a beat Prod. Liberty posted.
About the Artist
Gostav is an independent singer and songwriter from Edo State, Nigeria, making his mark in the Afrobeat scene. His music blends Afrobeat, Hip-Hop & RnB. He balances a tough, streetwise energy with emotional depth, making his music relatable and powerful.
Still an underground artist, Gostav has been steadily building his name with his distinctive voice and gripping storytelling.
Davido might be collaborating with a popular K-pop artist in 2025. This is according to music industry experts, Jaese Productions which includes publicists Joella Nuer, Ella Okunmwendia, and AyòÌféolúwa.
Last year, the Grammy-nominated singer also hinted at a potential K-pop song in an interview with the UK’s Kiss Fresh FM
In light of recent interactions and conversations, the trio made nine bold predictions for 2025, mainly on the expanding influence of K-pop in Africa:
Licensing Deals With An African Company
An increasing number of African fans are showing a growing interest in purchasing albums and merchandise, drawing attention to the continent. Group orders have become a popular trend as fans eagerly seek more. This surge in demand leads us to predict that a licensing deal is on the horizon, making official merch and other collectibles more accessible and affordable.
Global Auditions Open to Africans
Over the past decade, K-pop auditions have spread globally, piquing interest in African fans. Along with the rise of numerous K-pop dance competitions across the continent, Jaese foresees a K-pop agency or producer actively seeking talents in Africa.
Collaborations between Korean and African Artists
With K-pop artists increasingly meeting African musicians at major events like Fashion Weeks, Jaese believes the likelihood of a collaboration is high. Notable interactions, such as GOT7 members Jackson Wang and Bambam with Adekunle Gold and Rema with Vernon, set the stage for future partnerships. G-Dragon’s mention of Africa in his single “Power” further underscores his interest in the continent, especially with his recent signing to Empire, a label that represents African stars like Asake and Black Sherif. On the African side, Nigerian singer Davido has hinted at a potential collaboration with a K-pop artist in 2025. Similarly, in November 2024, Nigerian music mogul Mr. Eazi visited Jay Park’s More Vision, having long expressed his desire to collaborate with a K-pop artist since 2019. Jay Park on the other hand, has also expressed interest in touring in Nigeria and other African countries.
K-pop Acts Performing In Africa
Following ATEEZ’s groundbreaking appearance at the Mawazine Festival in Morocco, it’s highly likely that a major K-pop group will follow in their footsteps. Additionally, Jaese predicts that a K-pop artist will include Rabat, Nairobi, and Johannesburg as stops on their 2025 tour. African K-pop fans have united on the fan-driven global touring platform TOORLY to show their enthusiasm for bringing K-pop acts to their cities. Notably, up-and-coming Korean artists tend to explore newer regions before the more established acts. With Must B’s visit to South Africa and Henny’s performance in Angola, we anticipate that a rising K-pop act will hold a tour in Africa. Potential tour stops include South Africa, Nigeria, Ghana, Kenya, Côte d’Ivoire, Morocco, Tunisia, Algeria, and Egypt.
Increase in K-pop Streams from the African Continent
According to the TurnTable Charts in Nigeria, K-pop captured 2% of the Nigerian charts in 2024. Artists like Rosé, aespa, NewJeans, and Jimin achieved significant success in the West African nation. Following the return of G-Dragon, EXO’s KAI, BTS, BLACKPINK, and GOT7—artists who paved the way for K-pop’s rise in Africa—Jaese predicts that streaming numbers are set to increase even further this year.
Increase in “K-Afro Tracks”
In 2024, over 20 K-pop acts released songs incorporating influences from the African continent. Artists from other Asian countries including Thailand, China, and Malaysia equally dabbled into sounds from Africa and enjoyed great success. Jaese predicts a rise in Afro-influenced tracks in 2025, with some artists drawing inspiration from Tyla’s 2024 hits, including “Truth or Dare.” This time, we may see collaboration with African producers and songwriters, further blending the sounds of both continents.”
More K-pop Acts Featuring on African Platforms
In 2024, Jaese facilitated or published interviews with P1Harmony, Kep1er, BM, Fatou, and Blackswan. This year, we can expect even more K-pop artists to engage with their African fans across various media platforms. While most of these interviews were hosted by South African and Ghanaian outlets, Jaese envisions an expansion to other countries, including Nigeria, Kenya, and Morocco.
A Writing Workshop for African K-pop Fans
African fans of Korean music and culture with a passion for journalism will have the opportunity to participate in a workshop led by seasoned K-entertainment writers from around the world. To take part in the workshop, individuals must sign up for the Jaese Writers Club.
Ghanaian Team on Street Woman Fighter
The teaser for the fourth edition of MNET’s Street Woman Fighter was released, featuring a mention and display of the Ghanaian flag. Jaese believes that a Ghanaian dancer or dance team will feature in this year’s edition of the popular dance show.
A GREAT YEAR FOR K-POP IN NIGERIA
In 2024, K-pop acts made a notable impact on Nigeria’s premier chart system, the TurnTable Charts, accounting for 1% on the Official Artist Top 100, 2% on the Official Streaming Songs and Official Radio Songs charts, 3% on the Official Nigeria Top 100, and 16% on the Official Top 100 Albums.
BLACKPINK member ROSÉ emerged as the top charting K-pop artist in Nigeria in 2024. Armageddon The 1st Album by SM Entertainment’s aespa held the title of the most-streamed K-pop album in Nigeria. Women continued to dominate the charts with DAY6, Jimin, and Stray Kids being the only male acts. Other notable highlights were K-bands DAY6 and QWER making an appearance on the Album chart for the first time.
Virgin Music Group has announced a new partnership with Rain Labs, a boutique distribution and integrated label services company founded in 2020, in Accra, Ghana.
Rain Labs is dedicated to propelling African talent onto the global stage.
Clockwise: Mercy Agbai, RainLabs; Barbara Debre, Virgin Music Group Nigeria; Motolani Alake, Virgin Music Group Nigeria; Olukorede ‘Kay’ Ikazoboh, Virgin Music Group Nigeria; Albert Donkor, RainLabs; Lindford Amankwaah, RainLabs; Michael Ashkar, RainLabs; Kwame Owusu Ansah, RainLabs.
This collaboration aims to provide comprehensive support for African artists through digital distribution, marketing, creative production, and brand partnerships, ensuring that their music reaches global audiences and achieves lasting success. Virgin Music Group, a global independent music distribution and services company, has a history of championing artists worldwide.
With the establishment of Virgin Music Group Nigeria in 2023, the company expanded its commitment to the African music industry.
Its services include global distribution, streaming strategy, marketing, and artist development, designed to elevate both emerging and established acts.
With offices in Accra and London, Rain Labs is committed to empowering independent and emerging African artists and enabling them to thrive. Its tailored services include digital distribution, PR, streaming strategy, and creative production.
With its expertise in the African music landscape, the partnership with Virgin Music Group enhances Rain Labs’ ability to reach over 128 digital streaming platforms, including Spotify, Apple Music, Boomplay, YouTube Music, and Audiomack. Rain Labs’ roster includes Joey B, Cina Soul, Baaba J, MAUIMØON, Kofee Bean, Ess the Legend, and AD DJ, all of whom will benefit from Virgin Music’s global network.
Together, the partnership aims to deliver impactful campaigns and sustainable pathways for artists to reach their full potential.
Albert Donkor, the co-founder and lead of Rain Labs, expressed his enthusiasm: “This partnership marks an exciting chapter for African music. Virgin Music Group’s proven track record and global reach align perfectly with our mission at Rain Labs. We trust this is the right time to elevate African talent to new heights and are eager to see the impact this collaboration will bring.”
Olukorede ‘Kay’ Ikazoboh, Managing Director of Virgin Music Nigeria, shared her perspective: “Rain Labs is a well-established entity with a deep understanding of Africa’s music landscape. At Virgin Music Group, we are proud to collaborate with a company of this calibre.
Together, we aim to harness Rain Labs’ full potential and continue to develop innovative pathways for African artists to shine globally
About Virgin Music Group Virgin Music Group is the world’s leading partner to independent music companies and artists who require a standalone team with global infrastructure and local expertise in every major music market around the world. Virgin Music Group offers compelling, efficient, and highly flexible global solutions with the most advanced marketing technology available for independent record labels, artists and entrepreneurs who want to succeed. www.virginmusic.com
Tems has apologized for promoting her concert in Rwanda amidst the ongoing conflict in the Democratic Republic of Congo.
The Grammy winner had been slated to perform in Kigali as part of her wildly successful Born in the Wild tour but has been forced to cancel the show as tensions rise between Rwanda and the Congo.
Fighters from the Rwanda-backed M23 rebels, recently took control of Goma, one of the congo’s largest cities, drawing condemnation from the Congolese government.
Tems announced took to social media on Thursday to announce she was canceling the show after sparking backlash from furious fans who criticized her for decision to perform in Rwanda.
“So I recently promoted my show in Rwanda without realising that there is ongoing conflict between Rwanda and Congo…,” she tweeted.
Tyla’s latest single “Push 2 Start” is expected to debut at number 93 on the Billboard Hot 100, becoming her second entry on the chart after viral hit, “Water”
The reggae-infused Afrobeats and Amapiano hit, produced by Grammy winner, Sammy Soso showed signs of peaked at 12 on the Billboard Bubbling Under 100 100
If the Billboard Hot 100 predictions come true, Tyla will join Tems, Wizkid and Burna Boy on the list of African artists with multiple entries on the chart.
The South African Grammy winner has drawn comparisons to Beyonce and Rihanna since she was thrust into the spotlight in 2023 with “Water” with the BeyHive particularly critcising her for failing to acknowledge Beyonce’s influence on her music.
Fans doubled down on the criticism after the video for “Push 2 Start” was released in November 2023.
One of the scenes in the steamy video which now has over 42 million views on YouTube, shows Tyla dancing in front of a large fan, surrounded by back up dancers.
Fans took to social media to point out similarities between the scene and that of Beyonce’s 2003 video for “Crazy in Love”
The EP’s focus single, Italawa, is a triumphant anthem celebrating Emaem’s arrival on the big stage. The song stakes his claim as a star while promising longevity and unwavering determination.
The EP also features three additional tracks:
Its infectious rhythm and bold lyrics exemplify Emaem’s ability to blend confidence with artistry, making it a standout in the project.
• True To You – The sole romantic song on the project, this heartfelt track is a soulful promise of unwavering love and devotion, capturing the beauty of connection and loyalty.
• Sunglasses – A deeply introspective track that journals Emaem’s raw emotions and inner struggles, offering listeners a glimpse into his most personal reflections.
• Many Things – An explosive anthem addressing the reality that people often take you seriously only when it benefits them, wrapped in powerful lyrics and energetic production.
Speaking about the project, Emaem shared:
”A STAR NOW is my personal manifesto. It’s about embracing who I am, staying authentic, and believing in my journey, no matter the challenges. I hope this project inspires others to own their truth and shine unapologetically.”
The EP’s vibrant production and soulful storytelling makes it a must-listen for fans of contemporary Afrobeats. From Italawa to Sunglasses, each song offers a unique perspective, reflecting Emaem’s story and his unwavering belief in his artistry.
About Emaem:
Emem Major Atat, professionally known as Emaem, is a Nigerian singer, songwriter, and independent artist from Lagos, Nigeria. From his humble beginnings as a secondary school rapper to recording his debut single in 2016 under the moniker “Majorboyy,” Emaem has undergone significant growth and development as an artist.
With his distinctive, melodious vocals and resonating lyrics, Emaem is poised to captivate audiences globally, solidifying his presence as a rising star in the music industry. His journey culminates with the release of his debut studio project A STAR NOW, marking an exciting new chapter.
“It’s party timeeeeeeeeeee. Shoutout to my village that makes this possible,” she announced in the caption of her Instagram post going ahead to tag the team behind the incredible transformation.
The talented star seems to have a thing for dressing up. As she proved when she channeled Drake to announce her first headline show in Toronto.
The move is significant as Cold Play have only previously collaborated with three women-Rihanna, Beyonce, and Selena Gomez- in their nearly 30-year career
In a June 2024 interview with the BBC, Ayra has described frontman, Chris Martin as “very supportive” and revealed that she’d played her second album “The Year I Turned 21” for him before it was released.
“Oh, my. Yes. I’ve loved Chris for so long, and he’s been very supportive,” she gushed.
“We met in a studio and I played him my album before it came out,” she added. “He was giving me tips, and [his producer] Max Martin was giving me tips.”
The tour is not her first time on stage with the band. Soon after Good Feelings was released, she joined them on the Today Show in New York to perform it.
Afrobeats singer Tiwa Savage has revealed that women hit on her more than men.
The 42-year-old make the surprising revelation about her love life in an interview with Beat FM on Tuesday.
“A lot more women hit on my than men. I don’t know why,” as he talked about her female crushed with the Beat FM’s Bibi Raii.
Now, Mama Jam Jam may not understand why she seems more appealing to the girlies but the Beat FM presenter seemed to know exactly why.
“I get it, though” she told the hitmaker. There’s a certain energy that you have where it’s like it’s feminine but it’s also easy. It’s not like a threat”
She was however, quick to clarify that she didn’t mean to imply that Tiwa was “easy”
— Afrobeats Head Loves Mani Lapussh (@AfrobeatsHead) October 29, 2024
The fun interview comes as the 44-year-old revealed that she still relies on her mother to take of her son Jamil.
“It takes a village, raising my son as a single mum I always need my mum,” she opened up to her friend Tacha in a Cool FM interview.
“I call on my mum, she’s very instrumental, and we have a nanny that has been with us since he was three months old, and he’s nine now, so she has been with us for nine years.”
