Category: Entertainment
Travis Kelce Giddy Over Engagement to Taylor Swift
NFL star Travis Kelce is opening up about his recent engagement to global pop icon Taylor Swift, describing the moment as “exciting” and “awesome.” The couple announced their engagement on August 26, 2025, in a joint Instagram post that quickly went viral, sparking widespread reactions across social media platforms. Kelce, tight end for the Kansas City Chiefs, spoke about the engagement during the latest episode of his “New Heights” podcast, co-hosted with his brother and former Philadelphia Eagles center, Jason Kelce. “In case you missed the Instagram post heard ‘round the world, Travis and Taylor are engaged,” Jason said at the top of the show. “Yay!” Travis responded with gratitude, thanking fans and well-wishers. “I appreciate everybody that reached out and sent something and all the excitement that’s been going on,” he said. “It’s been really fun telling everybody who I’m going to be spending the rest of my life with.” The Super Bowl champion also shared details of their first public appearance as an engaged couple, which took place at a Cincinnati Bearcats game last week. “It was my first time introducing Taylor as my fiancée to a few of my teammates,” Kelce said. “So yeah, it was pretty cool.” When Jason asked if he still gets “giddy” saying it, Travis admitted, “Yeah I do. I still get giddy. Exciting times.” Kelce and Swift’s relationship has been a high-profile one since it went public in late 2023. The engagement marks a new chapter for the couple, whose romance has played out in front of millions of fans around the world. No date has yet been announced for the wedding.
Meet the Artist Managers Behind Afrobeats $2B Global Takeover (2023–2025)
Nigeria’s music industry has grown into a $2 billion powerhouse, and Afrobeats is at the center of that success. The genre’s global domination—from Grammy wins to streaming milestones and sold-out stadiums—hasn’t happened by chance. Behind the spotlight are artist managers who negotiate contracts, build international partnerships, and create strategies that transform local stars into global icons. Streaming platforms have played a huge role: Spotify reported that Nigerian artists earned 25% more in royalties in 2023 than the year before, with Afrobeats among the top streamed genres worldwide. But while fans see the stars, the real architects of this growth are the managers who understand both the music and the business. Here are the key figures shaping Afrobeats between 2023 and 2025: Asa Asika (Davido) Co-founder of The Plug, Asa Asika has been instrumental in Davido’s career for over a decade. Under his guidance, Davido dropped Timeless in 2023, an album that shattered streaming records, earning over 1 billion plays across platforms. Asika has expanded Davido’s reach into the Middle East and Asia, while also negotiating brand deals with Puma and Martell, proving his sharp business instincts. Bose Ogulu “Mama Burna” (Burna Boy) Bose Ogulu has redefined what it means to be a music manager in Africa. As Burna Boy’s mother and manager, she’s overseen his journey from Port Harcourt to global superstardom. With albums like Love, Damini, she secured Grammy wins, sold-out tours at London Stadium and Madison Square Garden, and festival headliner slots at Coachella and Glastonbury. She’s also built Spaceship Collective, giving Burna more creative independence. Sean Okeke (Rema) Sean Okeke of Mavin Global is the strategist behind Rema’s rise. In 2023, Calm Down (Remix) with Selena Gomez became the first Afrobeats song to hit the U.S. Billboard Hot 100 Top 5, racking up more than 1.6 billion streams on Spotify alone. Okeke has positioned Rema as a Gen-Z superstar, bridging Afrobeats, trap, and pop, while locking in collaborations with American and Indian markets. Muyiwa Awoniyi & Wale Davies (Tems) Tems’ managers have orchestrated one of the most carefully curated careers in Afrobeats. From her Grammy win for Wait for U with Future and Drake to Oscar nominations for Lift Me Up with Rihanna, Tems has become a global force. Awoniyi and Davies are ensuring she isn’t overexposed, choosing high-value collaborations and global stages like Coachella and Afropunk. Jada Pollock & Sunday Are (Wizkid) Wizkid’s career longevity is thanks to Jada Pollock and veteran manager Sunday Are. Jada, who also co-parents with Wizkid, brings an international marketing edge, securing deals with Nike, Cîroc, and Puma, while Sunday Are handles logistics for Wizkid’s expansive tours. Together, they helped Made in Lagos become a global phenomenon, with “Essence” becoming the first Nigerian song to chart on the Billboard Hot 100. Alexander Okeke (Fireboy DML) Alexander Okeke has helped Fireboy transition from a YBNL breakout star to an international Afrobeats sensation. Peru, Fireboy’s collaboration with Ed Sheeran, became a global smash in 2022 and maintained heavy rotations through 2023. Okeke continues to expand Fireboy’s global touring presence, ensuring he isn’t overshadowed in Olamide’s YBNL empire. Elizabeth Sobowale (Adekunle Gold) Elizabeth Sobowale has positioned Adekunle Gold as a crossover artist. By blending Afropop with funk, R&B, and global pop sounds, Adekunle has gained traction in Europe and the U.S. Sobowale masterminded his rebrand into “AG Baby”, which boosted his international collaborations with the likes of Ty Dolla $ign and Khalid. Vanessa Amadi (Tiwa Savage) Vanessa Amadi-Ogbonna is a powerhouse in PR and management. She’s managed Tiwa Savage’s international image, landing her a feature on Beyoncé’s The Lion King: The Gift, a performance at King Charles’ coronation, and global brand endorsements. Under her guidance, Tiwa has become the undisputed Queen of Afrobeats. Taiye Aliyu (Yemi Alade) Founder of Effyzzie Music, Taiye Aliyu has successfully marketed Yemi Alade beyond Nigeria, focusing on Francophone Africa, Europe, and even Latin America. With her hit Johnny and subsequent world tours, Yemi has become one of the most-traveled Nigerian artists, performing in over 80 countries. Alexa Rae Perkins (Asake) Asake’s meteoric rise has been guided by Alexa Rae Perkins, who works alongside Olamide’s YBNL management. From Mr. Money With The Vibe to his O2 Arena sellout in London, Asake’s street-to-stadium success has been carefully choreographed, with Perkins ensuring he penetrates Western markets without losing his Lagos street authenticity. The Bigger Picture These managers are not just handling artists; they’re building a global industry. They negotiate licensing, manage billion-streaming catalogues, and bridge collaborations with Western stars, ensuring Afrobeats isn’t a passing trend but a permanent fixture on the global stage. As Afrobeats cements itself as Africa’s biggest cultural export, the managers pulling the strings behind the scenes will continue to shape the sound, business, and image of Nigeria’s biggest stars—proving that true power in music often lies offstage.
NCAA Blacklists K1 De Ultimate From Commercial Flights for Six Months
The Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) has blacklisted renowned Fuji musician, Wasiu Ayinde Anifowoshe — popularly known as K1 De Ultimate — from all commercial flights in Nigeria for a period of six months. This disciplinary measure follows a recent incident at the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport in Abuja, during which the artist reportedly displayed unruly behavior that disrupted airport protocol and interfered with standard boarding and departure procedures. Speaking to TVC News, the Director of Consumer Protection at the NCAA, Michael Achimugu, confirmed the action, stating that the musician’s behavior posed a threat to airport order and violated civil aviation regulations. In a related move, the pilots involved in the incident have also had their licenses temporarily suspended, pending the outcome of a comprehensive investigation. Achimugu emphasized the NCAA’s unwavering stance on passenger conduct, noting that aviation safety, professionalism, and respect for procedures are paramount and must be upheld — regardless of social status or influence. Addressing widespread speculation on social media, the NCAA director dismissed rumors that K1 De Ultimate’s close ties to the presidency would shield him from sanctions. “The fact that he is a well-known figure or even close to the President does not exempt him from the law,” Achimugu stated. “President Bola Tinubu himself is a respecter of the law and would not condone any act that undermines public safety or the authority of the NCAA.” The agency reaffirmed its zero-tolerance policy for misconduct by both passengers and aviation professionals, stressing its commitment to ensuring Nigerian airspace remains safe, secure, and governed by impartial regulations.
Ozzy Osbourne Honoured with Final Tour Through Birmingham as Fans Flood Streets in Tribute
Thousands of fans lined the streets of Birmingham on Wednesday to pay their final respects to legendary rocker Ozzy Osbourne as his cortege made an emotional journey through the city he called home. The procession stopped at the iconic Black Sabbath Bridge on Broad Street, where mourners have created a shrine in tribute to the heavy metal pioneer, who died last week at the age of 76. Cries of “We love you, Ozzy!” rang out as the Osbourne family — Sharon, Jack, Kelly, and Aimee — laid flowers and paused to read the heartfelt messages left by fans. Sharon Osbourne, visibly emotional, offered a peace sign to the crowd before returning to the vehicle. Each family member held a pink rose wrapped in black paper and tied with a purple ribbon — colours synonymous with Black Sabbath. The hearse carrying Ozzy also bore floral arrangements in matching hues. The cortege began its route at Ozzy’s childhood home in Aston before heading into the city centre. The tribute came just weeks after Osbourne made his final stage appearance at Villa Park, where he performed alongside artists inspired by his decades-long career — including Metallica, Guns N’ Roses, and Yungblud. The day marked a powerful farewell to a music icon whose legacy continues to resonate with generations around the world.
Veteran Music Producer and Filmmaker Femi Lasode Dies at 70
By Kamal Yalwa – July 26, 2025 Renowned Nigerian music producer, filmmaker, and cultural icon, Obafemi Lasode, has passed away at the age of 70. His death was announced on Friday by the former President of the Performing Musicians Employers Association of Nigeria (PMAN), Dr. Tee Mac Omatshola Iseli, who paid tribute to Lasode’s decades-long contribution to Nigeria’s creative industry. In a heartfelt message shared with the public, Tee Mac wrote: “Obafemi Lasode (born 4 December 1955), a Nigerian veteran musician, film director and producer, songwriter, music producer, and playwright died today. My condolences to all. Respectfully, Dr. Tee Mac.” Lasode, known for his multifaceted career spanning music, film, and cultural promotion, was celebrated for his pioneering work in blending indigenous African narratives with modern storytelling in film and sound. He is perhaps best remembered for directing the critically acclaimed movie Sango, which showcased Yoruba mythology on an international stage. Tributes have begun pouring in from across the entertainment industry, as colleagues, fans, and institutions mourn the loss of one of Nigeria’s cultural trailblazers. Further details about funeral arrangements are expected to be announced by his family in the coming days.
Top Boy Actor Micheal Ward Charged with Rape and Sexual Assault
British actor Micheal Ward, known for his role as Jamie in the Netflix hit series Top Boy, has been charged with multiple sexual offences, including two counts of rape. The 27-year-old has also been charged with two counts of assault by penetration and one count of sexual assault, all relating to a single alleged victim. The offences are reported to have occurred in January 2023 . Ward, who lives in Cheshunt, Hertfordshire, is scheduled to appear at Thames Magistrates’ Court on 28 August, according to the Crown Prosecution Service (CPS). In a statement released through his representatives, Ward denied the allegations, saying, “I recognise that proceedings are now ongoing, and I have full faith that they will lead to my name being cleared.” Catherine Baccas, Deputy Chief Crown Prosecutor for CPS London South, emphasised the seriousness of the matter: “We remind all concerned that proceedings against the suspect are active and he has a right to a fair trial. It is vital that there should be no reporting, commentary, or sharing of information online which could in any way prejudice these proceedings.” Detective Superintendent Scott Ware, who is overseeing the Metropolitan Police investigation, stated that specialist officers continue to support the complainant. Ward rose to fame with critically acclaimed roles in Blue Story, The Old Guard, and Empire of Light. He was awarded the BAFTA Rising Star in 2020 and received Best Supporting Actor nominations for his performances in Small Axe (2021) and Empire of Light (2022). He is also set to appear in the upcoming American film Eddington, starring alongside Joaquin Phoenix and Pedro Pascal, scheduled for release in the UK this August. Beyond acting, Ward has a significant public profile, with over a million followers on Instagram. He participated in last year’s Soccer Aid charity match and gave a reading at the Christmas Eve carol service hosted by the Princess of Wales in 2023.
Iyabo Ojo Becomes Grandmother as Daughter Priscilla Welcomes Baby Boy with Juma Jux
Popular Nollywood actress Iyabo Ojo has officially become a grandmother following the birth of her daughter Priscilla’s first child with Tanzanian musician and husband, Jumma Jux. The joyful news was shared by fellow actress Tawa Ajisefini-Ali via her verified Instagram handle, @tawaajisefinni. https://www.instagram.com/p/DMgSyKhyQX9 In her post, delivered in Yoruba, Tawa congratulated Iyabo Ojo, Priscilla, and Jumma Jux on the arrival of their baby boy. She also offered prayers for the couple, wishing them continued blessings in their new journey as parents. Tawa further expressed heartfelt joy for her senior colleague Iyabo Ojo, celebrating her new status as a grandmother.
Rock Legend Ozzy Osbourne Dies at 76 Weeks After Final Black Sabbath Concert
Heavy metal icon Ozzy Osbourne, famed for his role as the frontman of Black Sabbath, has died at the age of 76, weeks after performing his farewell concert. Osbourne, who had lived with Parkinson’s disease for several years, passed away on Wednesday morning, surrounded by his family. His death was confirmed in a statement released by his wife Sharon Osbourne and their children Kelly, Jack, Aimee, and Louis. “It is with more sadness than mere words can convey that we have to report that our beloved Ozzy Osbourne has passed away this morning. He was with his family and surrounded by love,” the family said. “We ask everyone to respect our privacy at this time.” Earlier this month, Osbourne delivered what was described as his “final bow” during a special Black Sabbath concert at Villa Park in the U.K., performing from a throne due to his declining health. Tributes are pouring in from across the music world, with fellow rock legends and fans celebrating his decades-long impact on heavy metal and popular culture.