With some of the best musical artists in Africa, the country’s musician have been able to put in lyrics that will keep the ever bubbling nation highly motivated while being entertained. Here are some of the songs to listen from the West African nation if you are low in spirits or need some motivation.

Some of The Best Nigerian Motivational Songs Out There

1. We Plenti

Artist(s): Cobhams Asuquo ft Simi

Songwriter: Cobhams, Studio Brat pioneer, Simi

Year of release: 2019′

If you see person wey make own rejoice with them
If you they ask you whats you own take no offense

See this life na turn by turn o
Your time dey come
Because no be only you kill Jesus
We plenti for there

2. The Warrior

Artist(s): MI Abaga

Featured artist: Kauna

Songwriter: MI Abaga

Year of release: 2020

I don’t know your story or how you made it here

I know on the way to the top hurdles they do appear
There’s no way to cheat on the process
Brother handle your affairs

3. Epic

Artist(s): MI Abaga

Featured Artist: Praiz

Songwriter: MI Abaga

Year of release: 2011

4. Bring it on

Artist(s): P-Square

Featured artist: Dave Scott

Songwriter: P-Square

Year of release: 2014

I don’t care who you are

Where you from or what you do

Just as long as you chasing money

Do what’s right never give up on it

Bring it on bring it on

Are you ready unu ready

No matter how you try don’t ever fall

Keep your head up high and standing tall

Bring it on bring it on

5. Dance In The Rain

Artist(s): 2face(2baba)

Songwriter: 2Baba

Year of release: 2012

Take a deep breath and then come alive
There might be so many things you’re missing out of
Try to know it, try to feel it yeah
It’s your life yeah, try to live it yeah

Forget about tomorrow, live in today
Tomorrow will be fine so don’t let your worries
Take away the beauty of today
Just bask in the sun and dance in the rain

6. Adara

Artist(s): Sasha P

Songwriter: Sasha P

Year of release: 2007

Keep  your head up don’t cry(Cry)

You can make it if you try

Sa ra giri omo ekun

Adara adara

See Also: 30 Best African Praise Songs By Great Artists

7. Faze Alone

Artist(s): Faze

Songwriter: Faze

Year of release: 2007

Say, I
No go fit to stand alone
Na lie
Say, I no go make am on my own
Na lie o
Iro ma ni won pa
Said I can’t make it all alone
Oh no, na lie them dey lie o
Said, I can’t do it all alone
Iro ma ni won pa
If you believe, you will achieve it

8. Everything (Amen)

Artist(s): Timi Dakolo

Songwriter: Timi Dakolo

Year of release: 2021

Everything you put your hand (Go work)

Your name go open doors(Amen)

You sef go be a boss(Amen,amen, amen)

Everything you put your hand (Go work)

Your name go open doors(amen)

You sef go be a boss(Amen, amen, amen)

9. Oluwa Lo Ni

Artist(s): Wizkid( Bigwiz)

Songwriter: Wizkid

Year of release: 2011

My brother stop crying
Just count your blessings and name them one by one
My sister stop wailing
Say look your neighbor you, you go no say God do am
For you for me, all I wan see
Put your hands in the air and thank Jah for all He’s done

10. No Shaking 

Artist(s): 2Baba (2face)

Songwriter: 2Baba

Year of release: 2011

No slacking, no hocking, keep walking no stopping, no paying keep moving, No shading,

For wat believe is stand up, if it seems dat you sleep and raise up, you  gat to fight for yourself b4 you find yourself wit your hands up, you gat to be strong, you gat to hold on, you gat to keep keeping on, you gat to realize say it is all man for himself, dats Y I say.

11. Green Land

Artist(s): TY Bello

Songwriter: TY Bello

Year of release: 2007

I thought it was over
Thought you were done with me
But we’re just beginning, whoa, my life is a journey
I will walk with you
I will go where you want me to, yes I will go

12. Uyo Meyo

Artist(s): Teni

Songwriter: Teniola Apata

Year of release: 2018

Everybody’s born a winner eyeh eyeeh
If only you just believe yeh eh eyeh
Close your eyes and come and see nah eyeh eyeh yea
Don’t you worry ’bout a thing nah
‘Cos if you work hard
You can get it if you want
If you strive hard you can be just what you want
If you work hard you can climb the mountain top
‘Cos nothing is too small
And nothing is too big

13. Unstoppable

Artist(s): Cobhams Asuquo

Songwriter: Cobhams Asuquo

Year of release: 2018

I’ve been down the road where failure seemed familiar
No one thought that I would ever come this far
When everything was telling me that it was over
Still there was a fire burning in my heart
There were days I felt like I was at my lowest
I pushed so hard I couldn’t see beyond the pain
I never knew I made it high enough to know this
I’m getting closer stronger than I’ve ever been

14. Rise Up

Artist(s): 2Baba Ft Falz

Songwriter: 2Baba

Year of release: 2021

As gbege dey happen around the world
And the news wey full for air
Dey make liver dey fail you
Dey make spirit dey dabble
But my guy na your eyes you go sharpen (honorable, honorable)
You need to take care of yourself
‘Cause the curve go flatten
Better go dey start to dey happen

15. The Future

Artist(s): TY Bello

Songwriter: TY Bello

Year of release: 2011

We are the future, we are the dream

We are the nation we are part of this

Yes we are so amazing, yes that’s the list we can be

16. God Can Bless Anybody

Artist(s): Mr 2kay

Featured artist: Idahams

Songwriter: Mr 2kay

Year of release: 2018

My brother God can bless anybody

Make you no looku down on anybody
As you see me so no be by  power o

No be by sense o  nobody special pass

17. One Day

Artist(s): Ice Prince

Songwriter: Ice Prince

Year of release: 2015

one day food must come
all my niggas in the street wey dey hussle i dey pray say
one day boys must chop
all dem bad belle people wey dey yimu i say
one day yawa must gas
and if you know me then you know that i’m a real G hustler
one day rain must drop
hussler cos you know rain must drop

The post 17 Best Nigerian Motivational Songs   appeared first on WeAfrique.

Who Is Yiyo Sarante?

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Yiyo Sarante (@yiyosarante)

Yiyo Sarante was originally born as Eduardo Sarante to his parents, Angel Sarante and Maria Perdomo. There are lots of variations regarding the actual date that Yiyo was born. However, the date that seems to match his appearance is 1978. If 1978 is anything to go by, he should be 46 years old at the moment. 

Meanwhile, his parents were both music enthusiasts and often played music at home. Moreover, Yiyo is the 7th child out of 9 children, of which 5 are musicians.

Here Are More Interesting Facts About The Musician

1. Yiyo started his musical journey as a club performer

As earlier stated, Yiyo Sarante’s musical family had a great influence on his musical interest from an early stage. Hence, Yiyo was always interested in music, especially reggaeton, which was gaining traction in Puerto Rico in the late 1990s.

He started to perform in small clubs around Puerto Rico and soon became a regular performer in the area. In 1999, he joined the tourist area of Bavarian, Dominican Republic.

Meanwhile, Yiyo said that his early start-up was a little bit difficult for him because he had no record label, no investor, and no management as well. Prior, to his solo career, the singer was a member of his brother Julián Oro Duro’s group, with whom he earned 2,500 pesos per party.

2. His first music album was released in 2003

Following his club performances, Sarante decided to take his musical career some inches higher. In 2001, he released his first single Yiyo Siempre which quickly gained traction in the reggaeton scene of Puerto Rico. This success led him to release his first album Yo Soy el Que Soy in 2003.

More so, Yiyo is known for partnering with his brother, Jose Sarante who is popularly known as Mello. Mello is also a musician, percussionist, producer, and a member of the Aventura group.

3. Yiyo Sarante was influenced by popular artists like Frank Reyes and Anthony Santos

Yiyo Sarante discovered his passion for music at a young age as earlier stated. More so, he was Influenced by well-known artists such as Frank Reyes and Anthony Santos. Taking a queue from the artists that influenced him, Sarante began honing his craft and fusing traditional bachata with his unique style. His melodic compositions and emotionally charged performances quickly gained attention, propelling him to the forefront of the Latin music scene.

SEE ALSO: Biography of Benjamin Dube- Is He the Greatest South African Gospel Singer? 7 Facts

4. Sarante has a commendable career record

Over the course of his career, Sarante has worked with numerous musicians. These include Ozuna, Jowell & Randy, and Chencho Corleone. Additionally, he has composed songs for other musicians like Farruko and Arcángel.

Yiyo has also won a number of accolades and accomplishments. For his album “Yo Soy el Que Soy,” he received two Latin American Music Awards: Best Reggaeton Male Artist and Best Reggaeton Album of the Year. Additionally, he has received nominations for a number of honors, including the Billboard Latin Music Award for Best New Artist and the Latin American Music Award for Favorite Urban Artist of the Year.

5. He marked his musical career’s tenth anniversary in honor of all Dominican Mothers

Sarante in commemoration of his 10th year of success as a singer, celebrated by having a concert as a gift to all the Dominican mothers. The whole idea and concept were by his manager, Aracelis Mateo.

The concert took place at the United Palace and two weeks before the main event the show was sold out.

Prior to this event, the singer also celebrated his music successes at the Port of Sans Souci. For more than two hours, the singer performed his hits with guests from Merengue, Salsa, Bachata, and the Urban genre. He performed songs that marked his beginnings and songs that have become a total success and have positioned him in the spot he has gained in Dominican music.

6. The entertainer is romantically involved with his manager

Yiyo Sante came out in defense when rumors were spreading about his relationship and confirmed that he is dating his manager, Aracelis Mateo. In his defense, he said she was by his side when no one believed in him when he had no money, was without a record label, and investors.

Sarante and his manager have been in a relationship for over 15 years. They met when she was working as an assistant to César Medina’s programs. Meanwhile, Yiyo has said he and his girlfriend try to maintain a good work relationship and avoid meddling relationships with work.

7. Yiyo lost his brother to pneumonia in 2019

Yiyi lost his brother, Yoksar Sarante to pneumonia on January 28, 2019. Yoksar died at the age of 49 while surrounded by his loved ones. Prior to his death, Yoskar was one of the most prolific singers of the new bachata of Santo Domingo in the Dominican Republic.

Also. the late Singer was the second son of the family, but he was the first to be linked to art. He once said that as a child, he would walk with his father in parks and public squares singing while his father accompanied him on guitar and that it was their main source of income. He took his first steps into merengue and belonged to the International Grupo Melao a merengue band in the Dominican Republic.

The post Yiyo Sarante: Bio, 7 Hidden Facts About The Singer appeared first on WeAfrique.

While new stars such as Mohammed Sallah, Nabykeita, Victor Moses, Wilfred Zaha, and Sadio Mane are beginning to spearhead the image of football in Africa, the likes of John Mikel Obi, Jay Jay Okocha, Didier Drogba and Nwankwo Kanu have gotten their names written in the sand of time.

Meet the 10 Richest African Footballers

10. Sulley Alimuntari (Ghana)

• Date of Birth: August 27, 1984
• Age: 39 Years Old
• Status: Retired
• Net Worth: $40 Million
• Previous Clubs: Portsmouth, Internazionale Milan, Sunderland, AC Milan, Ittihad FC, Pescara, and Deportivo La Coruna

The richest African footballer on spot 10 is the former Ghanaian midfielder whose estimated net worth can be linked to his 18-year-old career as a footballer player.

Sulley started his career with the liberty professional in his hometown before moving to the Italian Serie A club Udinese and has since played with at least 8 clubs including Internazionale, and Milan.

Asides from his contracts and endorsement deals, the 39 years old also run a car business in Italy called the 4FKmotorsport which has long added to his net worth.

9. Kolo Toure (Ivory Coast)

• Date of Birth: March 19, 1981
• Age: 43 Years Old
• Status: Active
• Net Worth: $43 million
• Previous Club: ASECMimosas, Arsenal, Manchester City, Liverpool, and Celtic.

This Ivorian player is also one of Africa’s richest football players with a net worth of $43 million thanks to his football career which has spanned over 2 decades.

His career began with the ASEC Mimosas in Ivory Coast before joining Arsenal FC in 2002 and later became a  member of the famous ‘invincible s’ side of the 2003–04 season and subsequently signed for Man City where he earned $190,000 every week.

Though he also moved to Liverpool and Celtic, it wasn’t long before he retired and became an active coach for Celtic. Asides from this, he also has a  number of endorsement deals.

8. John Mikel Obi (Nigeria)

• Date of Birth: April 22, 1987
• Age: 37 Years Old
• Status: Retired.
• Net Worth: $50 million
• Previous Clubs: Lyn, Tianjin TEDA, Chelsea

Mikel is one of the highly celebrated football players in his home country and beyond. He began his career at the age of 12 at the Pepsi Football Academy and he became widely known at the FIFA Under17 world Championship in Finland after he was named the second-best player after Lionel Messi.

Before he retired he played for several such as Lyn, TianjinTEDA, and Chelsea. His earnings with these clubs as well as take-home pay and endorsement deals with the likes of Amsel Malta, and peak also add to his net worth.

Asides from this, Mikel is also into real estate and according to sources, this investment cuts across countries such as Nigeria, China, and Surrey. The former also live and spends this fortune on exotic cars and houses with are scattered at home and abroad.

7. Emmanuel Adebayor (Togo)

• Date of Birth: February 26, 1984
• Age: 40 Years Old
• Status: Active
• Net Worth: $57 Million
• Previous Clubs: Monaco, Arsenal, Manchester City, Tottenham Hotspur, Crystal Palace, Metz, Monaco, Real Madrid, İstanbul Başakşehir, Kayserispor, and Sassi

The 40 years old started his football career at the age of 11 at the Centre de Development Sportif and in 1991, he was taken to France thanks to the Metz coach Francis De Taddeo who scouted him out during the youth tournament thereafter he was taken to France.

Since the start of his career, he remained a star player and soon signed several contacts with reputable clubs in England. In 2012, he earned an estimated value of $7,540,000 from contracts alone and about $8810,000 as annual salary with Tottenham Hotspur and $268,000 weekly pay with Manchester City.

Asides from the above, he has also signed several endorsement deals with the likes of Adidas, Power Horse, and 22 Bet.

He also enjoys a luxurious life with several cars, jets, and power bikes to his name. Adebayor also owns a couple of mansions in countries such as Ghana, Togo, and UK.

6. Michael Essien (Ghana)

• Date of Birth: December 03, 1982
• Age: 41 Years Old
• Status: Active
• Net Worth: $70 Million
• Previous Clubs: Bastia, Lyon, Chelsea, Real Madrid, Milan, Panathinaikos, Persib Bandung

Micheal Essien began his career with the Liberty professionals in Ghana his home country before moving to France in 2000. At this time, he also joined SC Bastia and in 2003, he joined league champions Olympique Lyonnais. Since then, Micheal signed with other clubs including Chelsea, Real Madrid, and Milan accounting for his net worth.

Asides from his football career, he works with notable brands such as; telecom giants MTN, Samsung, and Pepsi.

Read Also: 12 Richest Black Billionaires, Their Net Worth, and How They Made Their Fortune

5. Nwankwo Kanu (Nigeria)

• Date of Birth: August 1, 1976
• Age: 48 years old
• Status: Retired
• Net Worth: $100 Million
• Previous Clubs: Inter Milan, Arsenal, Iwuanyawu Nationale, Portsmouth, and West Bromwich Albion

With the above net worth, Papilo as fondly called is regarded as one of the richest football players not just in Nigeria his home country but in Africa at large.

He began his career at the age of 15 with the Nigerian team known as Iwuanyanwu Nationale from 1992 to 1993. Following his skillful outputs, he soon rose to fame on the international level after helping his national team earn a goal medal at the

While his football career remains the major contributor to his accumulated wealth, the  48 years old also makes an impressive income from his businesses. As you would easily find, he has invested in a number of businesses through the  Papilo Group of companies which includes; real estate, Kanu sports TV, Papilo modeling agency, Kanu Nwankwo bottled water, sports centers, and football academy.

4. Jay Jay Okocha (Nigeria)

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Jay Jay (@official_jj10)

• Date of Birth: August 14, 1973
• Age: 51 Years Old
• Status: Retired.
• Net Worth: $150 Million
• Previous Clubs: Fenerbahce, Paris Saint Germain, Bolton Wanderers, Qatar SC, Borussia Neunkrichen, Eintracht Frankfurt, Hull City

Augustine Azuka Okocha popular as Jay Jay Okocha is a former Nigerian attacking midfielder whose career in football spanned 18 years. His career started off with the Enugu Rangers in 1990 and soon became known after helping his home country qualify for the first world cup in 1994.

Following his style of play and versatility, he became the interest of several clubs including Paris Saint- Germain who spent $13 million on him making him one of the most expensive African players last the time.

Besides his contracts with several clubs, he also signed endorsement deals with brands such as the Indian motorcycle manufacturing company Bajaj Auto, Kwik Delivery, Xiaomi, Bullet Energy Drink, New Age Charger, and Bet king.

While Jay Jay has long retired from playing football, he currently pursues an impressive business space as the CEO of the magnificent business empire known as Jay Jay Okocha Group West Africa Limited which runs into divisions such as Bureau de Change, restaurant, bar, property development, and football management.

3. Didier Drogba (IvoryCoast)

• Date of Birth: March 11, 1978
• Age: 46 Years Old
• Status: Retired
• Net Worth: $155 Million
• Previous Clubs: Le Mans, Guingamp, Marseille,  Shanghai Shenhua, Galatasaray,

Montreal Impact, Chelsea, and Phoenix rising

Drogba retired at the age of 40 in 2008 and he did that after a successful football career that spanned over 19 years. He is still recognized as one of the greatest African players of all time and more specifically; a striker.

His years as a player saw him exert his striking abilities, free-kick techniques, and goal-scoring prowess which earned him global recognition in a little time. While he is mostly identified for his input in the Ivory Coast national team and the country’s peace and stability, the striker also has an impressive record with other clubs such as Chelsea and Phoenix Rising.

Drogba also made part of his wealth from endorsement deals with Pepsi which he has since redirected the earnings into charity setups. Asides from being the co-owner of the Phoenix Rising club, he also oversees and manages the Drogba Foundation. The striker has also purchased a 5% stake in a gold mine which would yield great returns in the coming years as he considers it an investment in the infrastructure of his country.

2. Yaya Touré (Ivory Coast)

• Date of Birth: May 13, 1983
• Age: 41 Years Old
• Status: Retired
• Net Worth: $170 Million
• Previous Club: Monaco, Barcelona, Beveren, MetalurhDonetsk, Olympiacos, Manchester City

For a career that started off in the mid-90s, it’s no surprise that Yaya Toure’s net worth runs into millions. His versatility quickly made him one of the highly sought-after players and this got him contracts from several reputable Clubs including the likes of Barcelona, Olympiacos, and Manchester City.

1. Samuel Eto ́o (Cameroon)

• Date of Birth: March 10, 1981
• Age: 43 Years Old
• Status: Retired
• Net Worth: $202 Million
• Previous Club: Mallorca, Barcelona, InterMilan, Anzhi Makhachkala, Real Madrid, Everton, Chelsea, Konyaspor, Antalyaspor, Sampdoria

Topping the list of Africa’s richest football players is Cameroonian, Samuel Eto’o who in many accounts is considered one of the best strikers of all time with many trophies to his name.

Since joining the Real Madrid youth team at the age of 16, he has played for over 10 teams before retiring after 20 years and earning global recognition for his goal-scoring skills.

In his early years, Eto’o held the record as the highest-paid footballer in the world with an annual salary of $26 million at a point, His contracts and endorsement deal also added up to his accumulated worth of $202 million.

Like most rich athletes, he has invested his money into several businesses including real estate, and it’s only a matter of time before his net worth runs into billions.

The post Top 10 Richest African Footballers Of All Time appeared first on WeAfrique.

Prior to his death, the entertainer released his debut solo album in 2016 and he titled it King of Memphis. The title of his album infuriated many rappers and generated a feud that constantly put his life on the line. He is survived by his family, fans, girlfriend, and 2 kids – Tre Tre Thornton and Aria Ella Thornton.

Young Dolph’s Life and Death: All There is to Know

As stated earlier, Dolph was born on July 27, 1985, in Chicago Illinois. Although the entertainer was born in Chicago, he was raised in Memphis alongside his two sisters and two brothers.

He ventured into music at a very young age and is known to have released his first mixtape in 2008.

Young’s music career came with several honors and controversies as well. He has released several studio albums, compilation albums, mixtapes, extended plays, and singles. He has also performed as a featured artist with rappers like Lil Baby, T.I, and O.T. Genesis.

Meanwhile, Doplph’s impressive rise to fame continued to put his life on the line. His car was shot over 100 times but was outfitted with bulletproof panels in February 2017. Blac Youngsta and two other men were arrested in connection with the crime but the charges were later dropped due to insufficient evidence.

The entertainer was able to escape several assassination attempts. However, he died after sustaining at least 22 gunshot wounds on November 17, 2021, aged 36.

Who Murdered Young Dolph?

So far, 4 persons have been accused of Dolph’s murder. They are;

• Hernandez Govan
• Justin Johnson
• Cornelius Smith
• Shundale

None of the suspects arrested have pleaded guilty to the charges labeled against them yet, as the case remains under investigation. Some sources have said that It is likely that the trial for those accused of murdering Young Dolph will not occur until 2024 due to the severity of the charges and the discovery procedures by the defendants’ attorneys.

Intriguing Facts About the Late Rapper

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Paper Route Frank (@youngdolph)

1. He was Mostly Raised By His Grandmother

Young Dolph has said that he spent most of his childhood with his grandmother – Ida Mae. According to him, his parents were drug addicts and he hardly sets his eyes on them. Young said many of his peers in South Memphis were also raised by their grandmothers due to the several issues their parents had with drugs.

More so, Dolph said he disliked his grandmother when he was much younger because she was very strict and never allowed his friends to visit. However, he came to appreciate all she taught him when he was about 15. Young’s grandmother died on March 5, 2008, after battling lung cancer.

2. His Friends Encouraged Him to Release His First Mixtape

2008 marked the beginning of Young’s entertainment career. According to the available information, his friends were the ones that encouraged him to release his first mixtape titled Paper Route Campaign. Because of the tape’s local popularity, he decided to fully devote himself to rap music.

3. Young Dolph Established His Label in 2010

Dolph started his record label in 2010. He named the label Paper Route Empire and was able to release his first mainstream mixtape Welcome 2 Dolph World through the same label the same year.

4. Many Rappers Were Offended by the Title of His Debut Album –  King of Memphis 

As earlier stated, Young released his debut album in 2016 under his independent Paper Route Empire label. The album impressively peaked at number 49 on the Billboard 200 but several other Memphis rappers including Yo Gotti were infuriated by the album title. Consequently, Blac Youngsta released a diss track titled SHAKE SUM in response to Dolph’s album title.

SEE ALSO: Edmond Dédé: A Look Into His Life And Death

5. His Car Was Shot Over 100 Times a day After He Released a Video for His Diss Track

One of the earlier assassination attempts on Dolph was after he released a video for his diss track Play Wit Yo’ Bitch; a response to Blac Youngsta’s SHAKE SUM.

“Play Wit Yo’ Bitch” was carefully constructed to portray Gotti as an exploitative, dishonest, sneak-dissing, and disloyal fellow. A day after Doplph’s video was released, his car became the target of gunfire in Charlotte, North Carolina. The car was shot over 100 times but no one was hurt because it was bulletproof.

6. Young Birthed 2 Kids with His Partner, Mia Jaye

Dolph has never been married but he is known to have fathered two children with his longtime partner Mia Jaye. The names of his kids are Tre Tre Thornton (10 years old) and Aria Ella Thornton (7 years old). Young appears to love his kids dearly as he once said that he was highly considering quitting the music business because he really wanted to be with his kids 24/7″.

7. He Was Shot in Memphis While Picking up Cookies for His Mother

Young was attacked by 2 gunmen in a white two-door Mercedes-Benz on November 17, 2021, while picking up cookies for his mother at Makeda’s Homemade Butter Cookies. According to reports, The entertainer frequently used to visit the bakery whenever he goes home. An autopsy later revealed that the entertainer was shot 22 times and some of the wounds he sustained were on his forehead, making it difficult for him to survive.

8. A Quick Look at the Charges on His Suspected Killers

As stated earlier, at least 4 persons have been arrested in Dolph’s homicide investigation under the following charges;

Johnson, Smith, and Govan:

• Conspiracy to commit first-degree murder
• First-degree murder
• Criminal attempt to commit first-degree murder

Johnson and Smith:

• Convicted felon in possession of a handgun
• Employing a firearm during a felony
• Theft of property between $10,000-$60,000

Shundale Barnett:

• After-the-fact accessory

9. Young Dolph was Laid to rest on November 30, 2021

Dolph’s funeral service was held at First Baptist Church Broad Street. His remains were laid at a cemetery close to Hamilton High School, his alma mater.

10. A Street was Named After Him in Memphis

The city of Memphis gave approval for a street located at Dunn Avenue and Airways Boulevard to be renamed Young Dolph” Thornton Jr. Avenue. This happens to be the same location where Dolph was raised.

Similarly, two Tennessee lawmakers – Torrey C. Harris and former Senator Katrina Robinson proposed a bill that would make November 17 to be the “Adolph Thornton Day of Service” The lawmakers pointed out the fact that the entertainer was a philanthropist who lived an exemplary life.

More so, A posthumous tribute album titled Long Live Young Dolph was announced on January 10, 2022. The album was later released on January 21, 2022, through Paper Route Empire. Another posthumous album from Dolph, titled Paper Route Frank, is set for release before 2022 ends.

The post Life And Death Of Young Dolph: Who Killed Him? 10 Facts appeared first on WeAfrique.

Lil Eazzyy is an American rapper who had an interest in basketball before later switching to a rap career. Aside from this, he launched his career at the age of 18 when he made a Live Instagram freestyle of Onna Come On(2020).

So far, his career is influenced by a  rough childhood. Despite this, he has managed to make a name for himself among other rappers from Chicago.

The Early Life and Age of Lil Eazzyy

Lz pic.twitter.com/PHuO5Xa9GB

— Eazzyyひ (@Lileazzyy) August 1, 2022

Lil Eazzyy was born June 23, 2002, in Chicago. His parents separated when he was still little. When he was eleven years old, he left his father and moved in with his mother in the suburbs. Notably, his father who was a police officer did not allow him to associate with friends in Chicago due to the crimes involved and he only listened to music like that of Michael Jackson.

Despite his father’s attempts to stop him from associating with friends, the 22-year-old made friends whenever he visited his father. Thusly, he also started trading drugs and playing with guns.

Also, it was while with his mother that he was exposed to rap as she allowed him to listen to it. By the time he got to the senior class at Homewood-Flossmoor high school, he had developed an interest in rap music.

Lil Eazzyy Wanted to Play Basketball

As mentioned earlier, Lil Eazzyy’s attended Homewood-Flossmoor, a school known for its athletic activities, and as the alma mater of the American rapper Juicy WRLD who died of an overdose in 2019. While there, he was an active player on the school’s basketball team.

He went as far as playing at AAU tournaments, but he was unable to secure a spot on the roster. After realizing that his skills as a basketball player were not enough, he turned to rap, and soon after, he started going to the studio to hone his skill while still a High school student.

He Had his Career Breakthrough With Onna Come Up

After years of following the music of fellow Chicago rappers like G Herbo and Chief Keef who were some of the earliest influences on the young rapper, he soon followed in their footsteps by launching his career.

In 2020, Lil Eazzyy released singles one of which is the track, Onna Come Up which he released on his Instagram live from the passenger seat of a car. While it was the first time that the rapper will be putting out material, it brought him success as the track became a viral success. Per Audiomack, the song generated 700 thousand of streams on the platform.

The song attracted the attention of followers and major record labels like Atlantic records who signed him in 2021.

Not only that, The then 18-year-old’s hit track soon became part of his debut EP, Underrated.  In fact, while his peers were planning for college, he was securing a major record deal.

Shortly after, he released another mixtape, Rookie of the Year. Accordingly, he named the mixtape so because he felt he was still a newcomer since he had been in the industry for only a year.

The Chicago native has so far maintained a steady release of material with the release of his debut album, Too Eazzyy(2022)

The Chicago Rapper Shares his Experiences through His Lyrics

As mentioned earlier, Lil Eassy started life in South Chicago, an area is known for its high crime rate. Like many, he witnessed the gun violence and drugs that led to these crimes. Thus, the lyrics of his songs are influenced by these experiences.

What is Lil Eazzyy Up To?

The success of his career within the past few years has led to speculations as to whether he is an industry plant, someone that is made to appear self-made despite the marketing strategies used to promote them. While these rumors stem from how quickly his career blew, Lil Eazzyy has shown interest in seeing it grow.

In many interviews, the rapper revealed that he would want to do collaborations with rappers like Drake and hopefully become one of the biggest rappers from Chicago.

The post Lil Eazzyy: True Story Of The Chicago Rapper appeared first on WeAfrique.

Sheila Raye Charles was a songwriter and singer who is best known as the daughter of the iconic rhythm and blues musician, Ray Charles. Asides from her musical career and father’s fame, the Los Angeles native suffered several cases of abuse as a child that would leave her dependent on drugs.

Nonetheless, the sad events that accompanied her lifestyle brought her to her lowest point. It was at this time she encountered God and turned on a new leave. Thusly, her redemptive story became a hopeful succor to sexually abused victims, drug addicts, and neglected children.

Unfortunately, she battled breast cancer with claimed her life in 2017 at the age of 53 and was survived by her husband Michael Tony Steptoe, 5 children, and grandchildren.

Sheila Raye Charles Had a Rough Childhood

Sheila Raye Charles was born Sheilah Jane Robinson to her parents Ray Charles and Sandra Jean Betts on September 29, 1963, in Los Angeles, California, USA. She was raised in Cambridge, Ohio primarily by her mother.

Sheila was a product of an extramarital affair hence, she didn’t get much attention from her dad who was focused on his other family and career. According to reports, her father was absent from her life until the age of 14. Growing up, she reportedly became a victim of different kinds of abuse including sexual abuse from other members of her family and strangers.

She also struggled to feel accepted and loved which made her live with a number of relations. At 16, the singer got involved in a near-death accident that left her right eye buried behind her skull and spent many years recovering.

Sheila’s Incarceration Following Drug Addictions and Redemptive Encounter

Everything that Sheila went through in childhood left her empty, rebellious, and dependent on several drugs like cocaine, marijuana, and pills.

Consequently, she struggled with her addictions which saw her imprisoned on three different occasions. On her third prison arrest, she battled thoughts of suicide but later became remorseful after some men preached to her about the Christain God Jesus Christ. It was at this point that her life changed.

Sheila forgave her father for the years he was absent, she also forgave herself and took a new path. Though she had seemingly lost everything including 5 of her children, she somewhat found hope in God. She left the Bryan FPC and Houston Federal Prison after 15 months completely changed and transformed.

She Started Singing After Leaving Prison

Even though Sheila took her father’s musical genes, she never had a career in music until her encounter at the prison. According to her, the Christain God, ‘Jesus’ appeared in her dream telling her to commit her life to music.

Prior to this time, she had tried a career in music with the Paisley Park, Prince studio but it didn’t come through because they were not marketable. Thusly, she started writing songs for musicians and producers.

Nonetheless, on her third return from prison, she started singing and also spreading the news of her reformation and redemption. Her songs depict God’s love and mercy for the world. Some of her songs include;

Asides from music, Sheila also entertained at shows and events to share her story as a source of hope for other addicts. She has also written a book titled “Behind the Shades: Hope Beyond the Darkness” to give an overview of her sad early days and journey through recovery.

Sheila Raye Charles Was Married to Micheal Tony Steptoe

Sheila got married to Micheal Tony Steptoe in 2010, seven years after her release from prison. The pair met in 2008 but details about how they met are not known. Micheal was very supportive through his wife’s recovery process and describes it as a beautiful struggle.

The two soon became instrumental in the recovery of other addicts through the “One Way Up Prison Ministry”, which they founded. This became a medium to share their stories of God’s love and encourage others as well.

Sheila and Micheal also spread their stories across churches, service organizations, and recovery programs. Later, they founded a nonprofit organization “No More Chains” that centered on raising awareness and funding programs. To a large extent, they fought against addictions, incarceration, and human trafficking.

Read Also: Who Is Mpoomy Ledwaba? Is She Married? Net Worth, Interesting Facts About Her 

She Reunited with Her Children After Getting Married 

Sheila Raye had five children from her previous relationships before getting married. Though the fathers of her children are not in the picture, they were reportedly four different men. Unfortunately, her children also suffered the same fate as her and were neglected. Furthermore, her addictive lifestyle caused her to lose contact with them.

Details about her children’s identities have not been disclosed to the media. What is known however is that one of her children was born prematurely and weighed 14 ounces. The child also had a hole in his heart and managed to stay alive.

Following her marriage to Micheal, he planned for a reunion between mother and children. It’s been reported that Sheila reunited with three of her children at that time.

Breast Cancer Claimed the Life of Sheila Raye Charles in 2017

Reports confirm that Sheila Raye Charles battled breast cancer and unfortunately succumbed on June 15, 2017. The mother of five was 53 years old when she died in her home in Florida. Information about her cancer struggles only got to the public a few months before her death.

Her husband posted a picture of her on Facebook seeking prayers from fans, friends, and family who in return sent their wishes.

Sheila’s death was preceded by that of her mother who died in 2002 and survived by her husband, 5 children, and grandchildren. Memorials were held in her hometown, Ohio, and Florida to honor her.

The post Sheila Raye Charles: The Sad Life And Death Of Ray Charles Daughter appeared first on WeAfrique.

Some of these artists redefining African have collaborated with numerous international artists to promote the African culture through their music. Take a look at some African musicians that are making waves both locally and internationally. This list is in no particular order.

20 Best African Musicians in Africa

1. Angelique Kidjo (Beninese)

• Full name: Angélique Kpasseloko Hinto Hounsinou Kandjo Manta Zogbin Kidjo
• Nick Name: Angélique Kidjo
• Date of birth: 14 July 1960
• Place of birth: Benin
• Age: 64 years old
• Occupation: singer, songwriter, actress
• Genres: Afropop, Afrobeat, reggae, world fusion, gospel, Latin, jazz
• Nationality: Beninese
• Years active: 1982-present
• Record Label: Island, Mangnom PolyGram, Columbia, Razor & Tie, 429

The 64-year-old Beninese native has been in the African music scene for more than three decades now. Known for being versatile in several genres like Afrobeat, reggae, and jazz, Kidjo has explored several African languages including French.

Aside from recording over 15 albums, the Grammy award-winning singer has recorded songs for movies, TV shows, and documentaries. She has also attained international recognition and has earned a spot as one of the 100 most influential people in the world.

Selected Awards won by Angelique Kidjo

• Danish Music Awards: Best Female Singer (Denmark, 1995)
• Kora Music Awards: Best African Female artist(Africa, 1997)
• Mobo Awards for Best World Music Act  (UK, 2002)
• Africa Festival Award(Germany, 2006)
• 4X Grammy Award winner for Best World Music Album (2020, 2016, 2015, 2008)
• Afropop Hall of Fame (2009)
• Commander of the National Order of Benin (Benin, 2008)
• Go Global World Music Award (Denmark, 2008)
• Crystal Award (2015)
• Ambassador of Conscience Award (2016)
• Celebrating Women Award from the New York Women’s Foundation (USA, 2009)
• Officier de l’Ordre des Arts et des Lettres (France, 2010)
• On April 3, 2022, Angelique’s Mother Nature wins “Best Global Music Album” at the 64th Grammy award
• On September 4, 2022, Kidjo was inducted into the Headies Hall Of Fame

2. Wizkid (Nigerian)

• Full name: Ayodeji Ibrahim Balogun
• Nickname: Wizkid (Starboy), Big Wiz
• Date of birth: 16 July 1990
• Place of birth: Surulere Lagos, Nigeria
• Age: 34 years old
• Occupation: Singer, songwriter
• Genres: Afrobeats, reggae, dancehall R&B hip hop, pop
• Nationality: Nigerian
• Years active: 2001-present
• Record Label: Starboy Entertainment, RCA

Ever since Wizkid started his music career in 2001, he has collaborated with quite a number of both foreign and local artists. He achieved international recognition following his collaboration with famed singe Drake on the hit single, One Dance. the song topped the U.S Billboard Hot 100 as well as other charts in more than 14 countries.

Having broken multiple records, his collaboration with Drake made him the first artist to appear in the Guinness World Records. Also, in 2019, he was featured in Beyonce’s project The Lion King: The Gift on the single Brown Skin Girl. That also won him an Award Grammy for Best Music video.

Wizkid’s fourth album Made in Lagos was well-received upon its release in 2020. The album reached number one on the Billboard World Album Chart and the single Essence which featured Tems, became the first Nigerian song to chart on the Billboard Hot 100 and also reached the top ten after the remix was released by Justin Bieber.

With over 3.4 billion views on Spotify, Wizkid is currently regarded as the most streamed Nigerian artist of all time on the music app.

The Lagos-born artist has set himself apart and has continued to make great success while making history. His distinct music style and flow have gained him a spot as one of the musicians redefining Africa at the moment. He was cited as one of the top 100 most influential Africans by New African Magazine in 2019.

Famous Songs

• Holla at Your Boy (2010)
• Love My Baby (2011
• Jaiye Jaiye (2013)
• Come Closer ft Drake (2017)
• Made in Lagos (Album, 2020)
• Essence ft. Tems and Justin Beiber (2021)
• Call Me Every Day (Chris Brown ft Wizkid)
• B. d’Or (Burna Boy Ft Wizkid)
• Mood ft Buju (2022)

Some of His Awards

• 3x BET Awards
• 3x Soul Train Awards
• 3x Billboard Awards
• 3x iHeartRadio Music Awards
• MOBO Awards
• Most awards artists in the Headies award history
• 7x AFRIMA Awards
• Wizkid is the only Nigerian with the most certified songs in CV

3. Burna Boy (Nigerian)

• Full name: Damini Ebunoluwa Ogulu
• Nickname: Burna Boy
• Date of birth: 02 July 1991
• Place of birth: Port Harcourt
• Age: 33 years old
• Occupation: Singer, songwriter, Record producer
• Genres: Afrobeats, reggae, dancehall R&B, pop
• Nationality: Nigerian
• Years active: 2010-present
• Record Label: Atlantic

Burna boy became a household name in the early 2010s as one of the fastest-rising Afro-beat stars. His most recent album Love, Damini, became the highest debut of an African album on billboards in the Netherlands, the United Kingdom, and France upon its release in July 2022.

Burna Boy is the first Nigerian to have back-to-back nominations at the Grammys. His first Grammy nomination was for his 2019 album, African Giant. His music is mainly pop and afrobeat but also has afro-fusion, incorporating four genres. 

Famous Songs

• Like to Party (2012)
• Run My Race (2012
• Check and Balance(2014)
• The Realest (2015)
• Mandem Anthem (2016)
• Streets of Africa (2017)
• On the Low (2018)
• Pull Up (2019)
• Monsters You Made (2020)
• Want It All (2021)
• Last Last (2022)
• For My Hand (2022)

Awards and nominations

• South-South Music Awards (2013)
• Nigeria Entertainment Awards (2013)
• African Musik Magazine Awards (2020)
• Grammy Awards(2020)
• Brit Awards nomination (2020)
• BET Awards (2020)
• Edison Award (2020)
• MOBO Awards (2020)
• Global Music Awards Nomination Africa (2021)
• BET Awards (2021)
• Grammy Awards nomination (2022) 

Read Also:African Proverbs: 100 Best And Their Deep Meanings 

4. Davido (Nigerian)

• Full name: David Adedeji Adeleke
• Nickname: Davido, OBO
• Date of birth: 21 November 1992
• Place of birth: Surulere Lagos, Nigeria
• Age: 31 years old
• Occupation: Singer, songwriter, record producer
• Genres: Afrobeats, Afropop, pop, electropop
• Nationality: Nigerian
• Years active: 2009-present
• Record Label: DMW, HKN, Sony Music Africa, RCA

Davido dropped out of Oakwood University in the United States to pursue his dreams. His decision soon paid off after he started gaining prominence. His first album Omo Baba Olowo skyrocketed him to fame.

After winning the Headies Next Rated award in 2012, Davido went ahead to become the first solo African artist to sell out the 02 Arena in 2019. His collaboration with Chris Brown on the track Blow My Mind and the video of the song amassed one million views in 11 hours. He became the first Nigerian to achieve that in such a short time.

Famous Songs

• Dami Duro (2011)
• All of You (2012)
• Globe (2013)
• Skelewu (2013)
• Aye (2014)
• The Sound ft Uhuru and DJ Buckz (2015)
• If (2017)
• Fall (2017)
• Blow My Mind ft, Chris Brown(2019)
• Risky (2019)
• Jowo (2020)
• A better Time (2021)
• Stand Strong (2022)

Awards and Nominations

• Kora Awards: Best Newcomer Award (2012)
• BET Awards: Best International Act: Africa (2014)
• Ben YV Awards: Music Video of the year (2014)
• Dynamix All Youth Awards: Promising Youth Artiste (2011)
• African Muzik Magazine Awards: Best Male West Africa (2014)
• MTV Africa Music Awards: Best Male (2014)
• 3x World Music Awards nominations
• Chanel O Music Video Awards: Most Gifted Newcomer Video of the Year (2012)
• NMVA: Best Afro Pop Video (2014)

5. Nasty C (South African)

• Full name: Nsikayesizwe David Junior Ngcobo
• Nickname: Nasty C
• Date of birth: 11 February 1997
• Place of birth: Diepkloof, Soweto, Johannesburg, South Africa
• Age: 27 years old
• Occupation: Rapper, actor, singer, record producer
• Genres: Afrobeats, reggae, dancehall R&B, pop
• Nationality: South African
• Years active: 2013-present
• Record Label: Universal Music Africa, Def Jam Recording Africa, Tall Racks Records, Def Jam

The South African rapper and record producer, Nasty C became the youngest recipient of an award at the 2015 South African Hip Hop Awards the Best Freshman Award. He gained global recognition after he signed a joint venture deal with Def Jam Records and released the song There They Go.

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by I LOVE IT HERE (@nasty_csa)

His songs have topped charts such as the Billboard chart. After the release of his single Best I Ever I Had he received three nominations for Songwriter of the Year, Best Male Artist in Southern Africa, and Best African Rapper/Lyricist. He was also ranked third on MTV Base: SA’s Hottest MCs list.

Awards and Nominations

• South African Hip Hop Awards 2015
• 16th Metro FM Music Awards 2017
• SAMAs 27 2017
• MTV Africa Music Awards 2021

6. Diamond Platnumz (Tanzanian)

• Full name: Nasibu Abdul Juma Issack
• Nickname: Diamond Plantnumz
• Date of birth: 2 October 1989
• Place of birth: Diepkloof, Soweto, Johannesburg, South Africa
• Age: 34 years old
• Occupation: Singer, songwriter, dancer, businessman
• Genres: Bongo Flava, Afro-pop, Afrobeats, Soukous
• Nationality: Tanzanian
• Years active: 2009-present
• Record Label: WCB Wasafi, Warner Music Group, Warner Music South Africa

Diamond Platnumz is the founder and CEO of WCB Wasafi Record Record Label, Wasafi Media. He is very famous in East and Central Africa. Upon his career success in the music industry, Platnumz became the first Africa-based artist to reach a combined total of one billion views on YouTube.

His breakthrough hit single Kamwambie, won him three Tanzania Music Awards. He then earned a nomination for BET Awards 2014 for Best International Act: Africa.

As one of the most decorated music artists in East and Central Africa, Diamond Platnumz has collaborated with several artists such as Zuchu, David, Tiwa Savage, Flavour, Vanessa Mdee, and Adekunle Gold.

Famous Songs

• Kamwambie (2010)
• Wivuwivu (2010)
• Love You Die (2017)
• African Beauty ft Omario (2018)
• Eneka (2018)
• Number One (2018)
• Wasted Energy (Alicia Keys ft Diamond, 2020)
• Naanzaje (2021)

Awards and Nominations

• Afro X Digital Awards: Music Video of the Year (2021)
• WatsUp TV Africa Music Video Awards: African Video of the Year, Best African Combo Video, Best African Male Video (2016)
• Channel O Music Video Awards: Most Gifted Newcomer, Most Gifted East, Most Gifted Afro Pop (2014)
• HiPipo Music Awards: East Africa Superhit, Quinquennial Africa Music Vanguard Award, Africa Song of the Year

7. Sarkodie (Ghanaian)

• Full name: Michael Owusu Addo
• Nickname: Sarkodie
• Date of birth: 10 July 1988
• Place of birth: Tema, Ghana
• Age: 36 years old
• Occupation: rapper
• Genres: Hip hop, Hiplife, Afrobeat
• Nationality: Ghanaian
• Years active: 2005-present
• Record Label: Sarkcess Music, Dunwills Entertainment

Sarkodie is one of the best musicians in Ghana. He has not only made an impact in his home country but internationally as well. His music is usually in English and also his native language. This led to him becoming the first to win BET’s Best International Flow artist in 2019. Reports say he has maintained the spot of the most-awarded African rapper for a while now.

Famous Songs

• When I Grow Up (2012)
• Sark Nation (2014)
• Sarkology (2014)
• Who Da Man (2017)
• Overdose (2017)
• Oofeetso (2019)
• Adonai (2021)
• Rollies and Cigars (2021)

Awards and Nominations

• African Artiste of the Year (2012, 2014, 2015)
• 5x The Headies Awards for Best African Artiste (2013, 2016)
• Best International Act: Africa (2012, 2019)
• MTV Africa Music Awards for Best Hip Hop (2014)
• EMY Best Entertainer (2016)
• Part of the top 10 Ghanaian rappers of all time
• African Entertainment Awards USA for Best Hip Hop Artist (2013)
• International Reggae and World Music Awards for Best Virtual Showcase/concert

8. Octopizzo (Kenya)

• Full name: Henry Ohanga
• Nickname: Don Papichulo, Octopizzo
• Date of birth: 30 April 1983
• Place of birth: Kibera, Nairobi, Kenya
• Age: 41 years old
• Occupation: rapper, businessman
• Genres: Hip-Hop Rap
• Nationality: Kenyan
• Years active: 2009-present
• Record Label: Octopizzo music, Papichulo music

The talented Kenyan rapper and activist, Octopizzo is known for his style of music. His Music usually addresses issues of poverty, tribal wars and urban struggle. The award-winning artist grew up in one of the greatest slums in the world in Kibera, Nairobi.

He has pursued his music career earnestly in Kenya and beyond. His three albums, Chocolate City, LDPC, and Refugeenius have featured several people including refugees from Kakuma & Dadaab Refugees from Kenyan camps.

His two albums Chocolate City and LDPC retained the number spot on Itunes during the first week of their release. He is now famous globally for his strong passion for community outreach and youth empowerment.

Aside from his music, Octopizzo has a non-profit organization which he started in 2015. Through the organization, he has supported vulnerable youths through art and music.

Octopizzo has performed on big stages and has partnered with UNHCR to help the youths in the slums of Kenya. In 2015, he was cited as one of the most influential personalities and was ranked 16th globally as one of the top voices on refugee matters.

Octopizzo was nominated in four categories for the 2022 Grammy awards, if he wins the award, he would be the first Kenyan to ever receive a Grammy award.

Famous Songs

• Utanisho 2016
• Pull Up 2017
• Terga Gang 2017
• Level Up 2018
• Red Namba Plate 2018
• Warrior 2022
• Mabadiliko 2022
• Sparkle 2022
• Tom Mboya 2022

Awards and Nominations

• 2012 Coastal Nzumari Awards-Best Male Artist
• 2012 Kisima Awards nomination Artist of the Year
• 2x considered for Grammy awards
• Nominated in four categories in the 2022 Grammy Awards

9. Yemi Alade(Nigeria)

• Full name: Yemi Eberechi Alade
• Nickname: Yemi Alade
• Date of birth: 13 March 1989
• Place of birth: Abia State, Nigeria
• Age: 35 years old
• Occupation: Singer, songwriter
• Genres: Afropop, R&B,
• Nationality: Nigerian
• Years active: 2005-present
• Record Label: Effyssie Music Group, Rebel Movement, Universal Music Africa

Yemi Alade has been regarded as one of Africa’s richest and most successful music stars. Both locally and internationally, Alade is a well-celebrated musician.

Having debuted in 2005, she became the first female to win MTV African Music Awards (2015). The following year, she broke another record by winning the same year.

https://www.instagram.com/p/CiksLypJ7OB/

The singer has garnered several awards and nominations and her career has been in the spotlight ever since. Besides being the 2ndNigerian and first female singer to gain 100 million views in only a song on YouTube, the Nigerian superstar broke history by becoming the first female artist in Africa to have the most viewed music video.

The Abia state-born Nigerian singer has collaborated with several artists in and out of Africa. Some of them include Angelique Kidjo, Kritzbeatz, Beyonce, and quite a number of others.

Notable Songs and Albums

• Oh My Gosh ft Rick Ross(2019)
• Jonny (2014)
• Tangerine (2014)
• Kissing (2014)
• Africa (2016)
• Na Gode(2016)
• Empress (2020)
• Kings of Queens(2015Album)
• Mama Africa (The Diary of an African Woman (2016 album)
• Woman of Steel (2019 album)

Yemi Alade’s Awards and Nominations

• 4x the headies Awards for HipHop World Revelation of the Year 2015, Best performer 2017, 2018 and 2018
• Female Artist of the Year at the Nigerian Entertainment Awards (2015)
• Independent Music Awards (2016)
• 2x MTV African Music Awards for Best Female (2015,2016)
• 2x All Africa Music Awards for Best Female Artiste(2018)
• All Africa Music Awards: Best Female in Western Africa (‘2015

10. Rema (Nigeria)

• Full name: Divine Ikubor
• Nickname: Rema, Remmy Boy
• Date of birth: 13 May 2000
• Place of birth: Benin City
• Age: 24 years old
• Occupation: musician, singer, rapper
• Genres: Afrobeats, Afrorave
• Nationality: Nigerian
• Years active: 2013-present
• Record Label: Jonzing World, Marvin

Rema started singing and rapping while he was still in secondary school. He got his first record deal in 2018 after he shared a freestyle of D’Prince’s track Gucci Gang on Instagram. D’Prince later signed him under his record label, Jonzing World.

He first appeared on a billboard chart in July 2022 with his hit track Woman and it reached No.15 on the World Digital Song Sales. Also his song Calm Down(featuring Selena Gomez) currently dabbles between 19-11 on the Billboard Global Exclusive US chart with 39.3 million streams.

The Benin-boy artist has also maintained a consistent presence on Billboard’s U.S Afrobeats Songs chart. Since he started topping the billboard chart, he has logged 12 entries. His song Calm Down has earned him his first No.1 on the ranking.

One of his songs was included in the FIFA 21 soundtrack in September 2020.

Notable Songs and Albums

• Dumebi 2019
• Why 2019
• Corny 2019
• American Love 2019
• Bad Commando 2019
• Ginger Me 2020
• Woman 2020
• Calm Down 2022
• Calm Down remix ft Selena Gomez

Awards and Nominations

• 2019 The Headies-Next rated Award
• 2019 City People Music Awards
• 2019 BET Awards
• 2021 African Entertainment Awards USA-Song of the Year nomination

11. Slapdee (Zambian)

• Full name: Mwila Musonda
• Nickname: Slapdee
• Date of birth: 27 April 1987
• Place of birth: Zambia
• Age: 37 years old
• Occupation: Rapper, record producer, businessman
• Genres: Hip hop
• Nationality: Zambia
• Years active: 2006-present
• Record Label: XYZ Entertainment, Kalandanya Music Promotions

Born in 1987, Slapdee is not just a singer but also a record producer and entrepreneur. He made his music debut in music in 2006. His success in music led to his global fame and that made him the most searched Zambian musician on Google in 2017.

He has used his fame to support several causes including orphanages and children’s hospitals in Zambia. He has also been featured on CNN, African Voices CHANGEMAKERS as an influencer.

Famous songs

• Kuli Chaila 2012
• No Wonder 2017
• Lituation 2018
• Teti 2020
• Savuka 2020
• Midnight in Matero 2021

Awards and nominations

• MTV Africa Music Awards
• 6 Sun FM Kwacha Music Awards
• 1st Zambian rapper to win Ngoma Awards
• 2009 – Best Hip Hop Artist at the Ngoma Music Awards
• 2009 – Best Male in Southern Africa at the AFRIMM Awards
• 2009 – Best Male and Hip Hop Artist at the Zambia Music Awards
• Best Male Southern Africa at the AFRIMM Awards
• 2016 – Best Hip Hop Album at the Zambia Music Awards
• 2017 – Best Hip Hop Song at the Sun Fm Kwacha Music Awards

12. 2baba (Nigerian)

• Full name: Innocent Ujah Idibia
• Nickname: Tubaba, 2face
• Date of birth: 18 September 1975
• Place of birth: Jos, Plateau, Nigeria
• Age: -6068 years old
• Occupation: Musician, singer, songwriter, record producer, entrepreneur
• Genres: Afrobeats, R&B, Hiphop, reggae, Afropop
• Nationality: Nigerian
• Years active: 1994-present
• Record Label: Hypertek Digital

Nigerian artist, 2baba became very popular in the early 2000s in the Nigerian music scene after the release of his solo debut album Face2Face. He became the first winner of MTV EMA Best African Act in 2005 and is currently one of the most awarded Nigerian musicians histories.

He earlier began his career in the defunct Plantashun Boiz but has won more awards as a solo artist. In 2010, he emerged as the first Nigerian artist to have an appropriately priced international album.

2Baba is part of the Sony All African One8 Project alongside seven other musicians across Africa. He has worked with so many international artists to promote African culture.

The Plateau-born artist has also partnered with several international bodies such as the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) and other NGOs like The Nigerian RedCross Society.

2Baba has received quite a number of awards in his music career. He is now regarded as one of the most iconic musicians in Africa with worldwide recognition.

Famous Songs

• African Queen 2004
• Nfana Ibaga 2004
• One Love 2006
• True Love 2006
• 4 Instance 2006
• Enter the Place 2007
• Warriors 2020
• The Ascension 2014
• Away & Beyond 2012
• The Unstoppable 2009

Awards and Nominations

• MTV Europe Music Award
• One World Music Award
• 5 Headies Awards
• 4 Channel O Music Video Award
• MOBO Award
• 3 Afrima Awards

13. Sho Madjozi

• Full name: Maya Christinah Xichavo Wegerif
• Nickname: Sho Madjozi
• Date of birth: 9 May 1992
• Place of birth: Limpopo, South Africa
• Age: 32 years old
• Occupation: rapper, poet, actress
• Genres: Gqom, afropop, hip-hop
• Nationality: South African
• Years active: 2017-present
• Record Label: Epic

The 32-year-old rapper started her career on TV before she released her debut studio album in 2018. She was named by Forbes magazine amongst the 30 under 30 creatives category list for her contribution to music. She was on the list alongside A-list musicians like Burna Boy and Thando Thabethe.

Madjozi appeared on the global music platform COLORS in August 2019 where she had the rare opportunity to perform her famous song, John Cena. The song was inspired by the famous professional wrestler, John Cena. Most of her songs have topped several south African chats and some have trended in regions and made two-million views on music platforms.

Famous Songs

• Dumi HipHone 2017
• Probleme 2018
• John Cena 2019
• What a Life 2020

Awards and Nominations

• 2019 South African Music Awards-Best Music Video Nomination
• 2019 South African Music Awards-Female Artist of the Year
• 2019 South African Music Awards-Best Newcomer
• 2019 AFRIMA Nomination
• 2019 BET Awards-Best New International Act
• 2020 African Entertainment Awards USA
• 2021 South African Music Award- Best Traditional Music Album

14. Khaligraph Jones

• Full name: Brian Ouko Omolio
• Nickname: Khaligraph Jones
• Date of birth: 12 June 1990
• Place of birth: Kayole Nairobi, Kenya
• Age: 34 years old
• Occupation: rapper, songwriter, emcee
• Genres: Gqom, afropop, hip-hop
• Nationality: South African
• Years active: 2013-present
• Record Label: Blue Ink

Khaligraph Jones gained international recognition after he won Channel O Music Videos Awards in 2009. He also won the Best Rap Act of 2018 after the release of his debut studio album. In January 2020, he was named the best Hip Hop t at the Soundcity MVP Awards.

In May 2021, Jones was named the East African Rapper of the Year at MTN Uganda.

Famous Songs

• I Still Will 2020
• Tuma Kitu 2020
• Lwanda Magere Legacy 2020
• Kwendaa!! 2020
• Wavy ft Sarkodie (rapper) 2021
• Punguza Kasheshe 2021
• CHAMPEZ 2021

Awards and Nominations

• Channel O Music Video Awards Emcee Africa in 2009.
• Best Rap Act of the Year at African Muzik Magazine Awards 2018 (Afrimma).
• Best Hip Hop Act at the Soundcity MVP Awards (2018)
• East African Rapper of the Year at MTN Uganda (2021).
• 2022 Best Male Rat Act in East Africa

15. Bontle Smith (South African)

• Full name: Bontle Mabotlhale Smith
• Nickname: Bontle Smith
• Date of birth: 1st April 1990
• Place of birth:  South Africa
• Age: 34 years old
• Occupation: musician
• Genres: singer, dancer
• Nationality: South African
• Years active: 2013-present

Born April 1st, 1989, Bontle Smith is now regarded as the latest sensation in South Africa. She has worked with popular music artists like Cassper Nyovest and DJ Maphorisa.

Her most recent song reached 1 million on You Tube views milestone. The song Cassper Nyovest featured her also reached 1.5 million YouTube views.

Famous Songs

• Lose Yourself in the Music 2010
• Sandton
• lerato 2018
• Da Lawds Prayers 
• Money Calling 
• More Than That Sbongile 

16. Tems (Nigerian)

• Full name: Temilade Openiyi
• Nickname: Tems baby
• Date of birth: 11 June 1995
• Place of birth: Lagos, Nigeria
• Age: 29 years old
• Occupation: singer, songwriter, record producer
• Genres: R&B, Afrobeat, Alte
• Nationality: Nigerian
• Years active: 2018-present
• Record Label: RCA Records

Tems is definitely one of the African musicians redefining the face of Africa. She rose to prominence after Wizkid featured her om his 2020 hit song Essesnce. The song reached top 10 on the Billboard Hot 100 after the remix with Justin Bieber. Tems got her first Grammy award nomination following the release of the remix.

The talented singer got signed to RCA Records and shortly afterward her vocals were sampled by American rapper Future for his single Wait for U. As a featured artist on the song, she became the first African artist to debut at number one and the second Nigerian to top the chart.

Tems made a cover of Bob Marley’s No Woman, No Cry for the Marvel movie Black Panther: Wakanda Forever soundtrack in 2022. Throughout her career, she has been notable achievements in less than one decade of her career.

Famous Songs

• Mr. Rebel 2018
• Looku Looku 2019
• Try Me 2019
• These Days 2020
• Damages 2020
• Crazy Tings 2021
• No Woman, No Cry 2022
• Free Mind 2022

Awards and Nominations

• 2019 The Headies-Best Alternative song nomination
• 2020 BET Awards- Best New International Act
• 2020 Net Honours Most Played Alternative Song
• All Africa Music Awards- Best Female Artist
• African Entertainment Awards USA- Best Collaboration

17. Mafikizolo (South Africa)

• Origin: South Africa
• Members: Theo Kgosinkwe, Nhlanhla Nciza
• Genres: Afro Pop, Kwaito, Afro-soul
• Years active: 1997-present
• Labels: Universal Music Group, Kalawa Jazmee Records
• Past Member(s): Tebogo Benedict Madingoane

The South African music duo was formed in 1996 but they rose to fame after they released their singles, Ndihamba Nawe kuphela, and the self-album Mafikizolo.

Their 2000 album Gate Crashers became their best-selling album as they won 14 South African Music Awards and many others.

Famous Songs

• Mafikizolo (1997)
• Music Revolution (1999)
• Gate Crashers (2000)
• Sibongile (2002)
• Kwela (2003)
• Van Toeka Af (2005)
• Six Mabone (2006)
• Reunited (2013)

Awards and Nominations

• 2003 9th SAMA- Group of the Year
• 2004 SAMA Award
• 2007 MTV Africa Music Awards
• 2019 African Entertainment Awards Nominations

18. Fireboy DML(Nigerian)

• Full name: Adedamola Adefolahan
• Nickname: Fireboy DML
• Date of birth: 5 February 1996
• Place of birth: Abeokuta, Ogun state, Nigeria
• Age: 28 years old
• Occupation: singer, songwriter
• Genres: R&B, Afrobeat
• Nationality: Nigerian
• Years active: 2012-present
• Record Label: YBNL Nation, Empire Distribution

Fireboy DML got his breakthrough in music following the release of his single Jealous in 2018. The singer describes his sound as  Afro-Life which his audience can easily relate to.

He has appeared on The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon and performed quite a number of songs like Vibration, and Champion. His song Peru made the Billboard Hot 100 chart after it featured Ed Sheeran.

His work with Ed Sheeran exposed him to the world that he got to feature on the sickick remix to Madonna’s Frozen. His song Scatter was included in the FIFA21 game soundtrack.

Famous Songs

• Jealous 2018
• What If I Say 2019
• Champion 2020
• Running (with Ladipoe)
• Tattoo 2020
• Eli 2020
• Peru 2021
• Scatter 2021
• Playboy 2022

Awards and Nominations

• 2019 City People Music Awards-Most Promising Act of the Year
• 2019 Soundcity MVP Awards Festival 2020 Album of the Year
• 2020 The Headies-Best R&B Album
• NAACP Image Awards- Outstanding International Song
• 2022 The Headies- Best Afrobeat single

19. AKA (South African)

• Full name: Kiernan Jarryd Forbes
• Nickname: AKA, SupaMega, Bhovamania
• Date of birth: 28 January 1988
• Place of birth: Cape Town, Western Cape
• Age: 36 years old
• Occupation: rapper, songwriter
• Genres: Hip Hop
• Nationality: South Africa
• Years active: 2002-present
• Record Label: Vth Season, Beam Group

Raised in Cape Town, AKA became famous after the release of his single Victory Lap in 2011. He is known internationally for his numerous collaborations with local and foreign artists. Some of them include Diamond Platnumz and Burna Boy.

Famous Songs 

• Energy 2020
• Cross My Heart 2020
• Finessin 2020
• Mufasa 2020
• Python 2020
• Heavy Drank 2020
• Monuments 2020

Awards and Nominations

• 2012 18th South African Music Awards-Best Male Artist
• 2014 21st South African Music Awards-Best Male Artist
• 2014 Kora Awards- Best African Hip hip
• 2015 4th South African Hip Hop Awards-Most Valuable Artist
• 2020 26th South African Music Awards-Music Video of the Year

20. Master KG (South African)

• Full name: Kgaogelo Moagi
• Nickname: Master KG
• Date of birth: 31 January 1996
• Place of birth: Tzaneen, Republic of South Africa
• Age: 28 years old
• Occupation: singer, DJ, Music producer
• Genres: R&B, Afrobeat, Alte
• Nationality: South African
• Years active: 2016-present
• Record Label: Open Mic Productions, Elekra France

Master KG was born and raised in Tzaneen. His debut studio album Skeleton Move earned him an AFRIMA award. He is also recognized for being the pioneer of the Bolobedu dance.

He got to the peak of his career after the release of his second studio album, Jerusalema and it had the internationally successful single Jerusalema. He featured Nomcebo Zikode and Burna Boy in the song. The song was certified diamond by FRA and it topped Billboard’s World Digital Song Sales chart.

In 2021, he recorded a single with David Guetta and Akon.

Famous Songs

• Skeleton Move 2018
• Waya Waya 2018
• Jerusalema 2020
•  Shine in Your Light 2021
• Uthando 2021

Awards and Nominations

• 2018 AFRIMA-Best Artiste Duo
• 2018 SABC Summer Song
• 2018 Limpopo Music Awards
• 2020 African Entertainment Awards USA
• 2020 African Muzik Magazine Awards
• 2021 SAMA27 Awards
• 2021 Global Music Awards Africa

The post African Musicians: 20 Best Musicians Redefining The Continent appeared first on WeAfrique.

No doubt, several African praise songs by great gospel artists are currently in circulation. However, there are some particular melodies that continue to stand out. This could largely be attributed to their lyrical content, production quality, impact, acceptance, and for some, the artist’s prominence.

Best African Praise Songs Everyone Should Know About

1. Hallelujah

• Artist: Nathaniel Bassey
• Album: Hallelujah Again
• Released: 2021
• Country: Nigeria

Nigeria’s foremost gospel singer; Nathaniel Bassey is known for several songs like Book of Life, The Son of God, and Names of God. Though he has always been known, his recent #HallelujaChallange added to his popularity.

The medley has been on the repeat of many people’s playlists owing to its excellent vocal, production, and lyrical quality. More so, the music video of the song is a top-notch blend of Western and African traditional costumes, instruments, and choreography.

2. Sound of Praise

• Artist: Joe Mettle
• Album: Single Release
• Released: 2014
• Country: Ghana

Sound of Praise remains one of the best African Praise songs written and performed by Ghana’s award-winning gospel singer; Joe Mettle.

In 2014, Sound of Praise became the Best Praise song of the year as confirmed by CCML Ghana Gospel Awards.

3. Glorious Life

• Artist: Deborah Lukalu
• Album: Call Me Favour (Live)
• Released: 2018
• Country: Congo

One of Africa’s best gospel artists is undoubtedly Deborah Lukaku. She is an international Congolese singer famous for many songs. However, the piece that has pushed her into the spotlight is Glorious Life which was released in 2018 during the Live recording of her album Call Me Favour.

4. Siyabonga Jesu (Wa Hamba Nathi)

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=guiPmwwwXPU

• Artist: Solly Mahlangu
• Album: Single Release
• Released: 2014
• Country: South Africa

The song Wahamba nathi was sung in Zulu and Sotho. It immediately received wide acceptance in most African countries and beyond even though it was performed in South African dialects. Be that as it may, the summary of Solly Mahlangu’s hit song is that God walked with us through thick and thin and we are thanking Him in return.

5. Na You Dey Reign 

• Artist: Mercy Chinwo
• Album: Satisfied
• Released: 2020
• Country: Nigeria

Na You De Reign is one of Mercy Chinwo’s hit songs sung in pidgin English; an unofficial language common in most parts of Nigeria.

Mercy Chinwo happens to be a seasoned gospel artist and winner of the 2012 Nigerian Idol. She is known for many other beautiful songs like Excess love (2018).

6. Khaya Mthethwa

• Artist: Khaya Mthethwa
• Album: The Dawn (Live)
• Released: 2016
• Country: South Africa

Right from its initial release in 2016, Khaya’s Never Settle for Less has been a wonderful tune that has been unable to vanish into thin air.

Although it was first heard within the borders of South Africa, it has become a global worship song that is being enjoyed by many congregations.

7. Ngibe Muhle Nami

• Artist: Rebecca Malope
• Album: Siyabonga
• Released: 2005
• Country: South Africa

Rebecca Malope has been an active gospel singer since 1984 and has released dozens of albums. Her song Ngibe Muhle Nami is believed to be one of her best by some of her fans in South Africa and beyond.

8. Halala Ngo Jesu

• Artist: Derrick Nzimande
• Album: Derrick Ndzimande Greatest Hits Vol. 2
• Released: 2002
• Country: South Africa

Derrick could be referred to as a little old-fashioned but his songs have remained on the lips of most lovers of gospel music in South Africa.

Halala NgoJesu is one of the best hits of Derrick despite being released about 2 decades ago.

9. Bow Down and Worship Him

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uDFJPmHF3mQ

• Artist: Benjamin Dube
• Album: Worship in Isolation
• Released: 2002 (First released)
• Country: South Africa

The song Bow Down and Worship Him was first released in 2004 by South Africa’s leading gospel singer, Benjamin Dube.

The song is known to have been a blessing to several people within and outside the African continent. More so, several gospel artists have performed the cover of the song and several years after the original version of the song was released, it is still being sung by many artists and church congregations.

10. Omemma

• Artist: Judikay
• Album: Man of Galilee
• Released: 2021
• Country: Nigeria

Jukikay’s Omemma happens to be one of the greatest hits in her 2021 album. The song was recorded live and so far has over 50 million views on youtube.

Jukiday comes from the eastern part of Nigeria but her songs are phenomenal tunes that resonate across the African continent and beyond.

11. You Too Dey Bless Me

• Artist: Frank Edwards
• Album: Definition
• Released: 2008
• Country: Nigeria

Meaning you always bless me, Frank’s You Too Dey Bless Me has also been a top hit from his Definition album of 2018. The song has had many covers by several artists in Nigeria and also Africa.

12. Bigger  

• Artist: Moses Bliss
• Album: Too Faithful
• Released: 2021
• Country: Nigeria

With a fantastic harmonical ‘humm,’ Moses Bliss introduces his 2021 hit track Bigger from his Too Faithful album which was released in 2021.

The song featured artists like Festizie, Membrane, Uwa, Chris Heaven, and Temple and has since its release remained top of Africa’s praise songs owing to the number of performances and covers the song has gained.

13. Imolede

• Artist: Dunsin Oyekan
• Album: Kingdom Now
• Released: 2019
• Country: Nigeria

To so many lovers of Dunsin’s music, Imolede stands out as one of the best songs the singer has ever released. The song was nominated for the Song of Excellence award at the 2019 Africa Gospel Music and Media Awards (AGMMA).

Dunsin Oyekan remains one of Nigeria’s foremost gospel ministers also known as ‘The Eagle’. He has done many collaborations with gospel singers from all over the world.

14. You Are Able

• Artist: Ada Ehi
• Album: Future Now
• Released: 2017
• Country: Nigeria

So many people that came to know Ada did so through her 2017 hit song You Are Able. The song currently has thousands of views on YouTube and has witnessed many covers.

Ada remains a renowned Christian music songwriter and singer based in Nigeria.

15. I Know Who I Am

• Artist: Sinach
• Album: Shout It Loud
• Released: 2012
• Country: Nigeria

From the moment it was released, I Know Who I Am by Sinach became an anthem in many congregations within and out of Nigeria. Though Sinach has released several songs ever since, this one has remained evergreen.

SEE ALSO: 12 Gospel Singers To Follow In Nigeria

16. Your Love Has Taken Over Me

• Artist: Frank Edwards
• Album: Single Release
• Released: 2016
• Country: South Africa

Under the Canopy was released to commemorate Rocktown’s 7th Anniversary celebration.

Frank Edwards premieres the visuals for his highly acclaimed single Under The Canopy and the anticipated video is a colorful carnival with hundreds of extras and dancers. It also features cameo appearances from Fiokee, Victor Ike, King Bas, Mayomusic, and more. The song is still one of Africa’s best praise songs.

17. Ngeke ngiyeke ukuthandaza

• Artist: Deborah Frase
• Album: Uhambo
• Released: 201
• Genre: Gospel

Ngeke ngiyeke ukuthandaza became a hit single shortly after its release. It helped Deborah win several awards including the SABC Crown Gospel Music award in the Best Female category among others.

18. My God is Good 

• Artist: Joyous Celebration
• Album: Joyous Celebration 13 (Live at Mosaiek Theatre)
• Released: 2009
• Country: South Africa

There is hardly any praise worship session that does not feature the song My God is Good. Since the release of the song in 2009, both Africans and non-Africans completely fell in love with the live praise medley which was sung by one of the best gospel singing groups in South Africa – Joyous Celebration. The song was led by one of the group’s top praise leaders, Uche.

19. Mateke

• Artist: Linet Munyali
• Album: Single Release
• Released: 2013
• Genre: Gospel

Mateke is one of Linet’s best songs. She released it shortly after she got born again, shunning circular music.

The song became a huge success in Kenya and the video of the song clinched the 2014 Groove Awards.

20. Go Tseba Jehovah

• Artist: Winnie Mashaba
• Album: Go Tseba Jehovah
• Released: 2010
• Country: South Africa

Winnie Mashaba stands as one of Africa’s gospel music icons with several wonderful songs including Go Tseba Jehova.

Some of her honors include the South African Music Awards (SAMA), South African Gospel Awards, and Metro FM Music Awards. Furthermore, she was named Best Female Artist at the Crown Gospel Awards in 2010, the same year she released GoTseba Jehovah.

21. One God

• Artist: David Wonder
• Album: Single Release
• Released: 2021
• Country: Kenya

David is one of Kenya’s finest gospel artists. His 2021 hit single One God has remained a sensation to date, attracting thousands of views and downloads every day. The song was inspired by 1 Timothy 2: 5-6.

22. Imela

• Artist: Solomon Lange
• Album: Alheri
• Released: 2012
• Country: Nigeria

When looking for one of the songs that have been listened to in almost every part of Nigeria, Solomon Lange’s Imela will definitely feature on the list. Though it was released about a decade ago, the song has remained fresh and relevant for many African praise worship leaders and congregations.

23. Better Is a Day

• Artist: Chigo Grace
• Album: Breath In Me
• Released: 2019
• Country: Malawi

Chigo is a very popular gospel artist in Malawi. She is a powerful vocalist and instrumentalist known to have written and performed several songs.

Her song Better Day is lauded to have amazing production quality and lyrical content.

24. Intethelelo 

• Artist: Joyous Celebration
• Album: Joyous Celebration 4
• Released: 2004
• Country: South Africa

Joyous celebration is a group known for several amazing songs. What makes Intethelelo stand out is the amazing costumes and dance performed by the talented band. Even though the singers gave the song a dramatic flavor, their voices were still of the best quality in the song.

25. Ridza Bhosvo

• Artist: Sebastin Magacha
• Album: Tinaye Faithful God
• Released: 2013
• Country:  Zimbabwe

Zimbabwe’s Sebastin Magacha is also another finest of Africa’s gospel artists. He is currently rated one of the best because of his artistic prowess.

He sang Ridza Bhosvo in 2013 but the song is still a sensation to date for many of his teaming fans.

26. Onaga (It’s Working)

• Artist: JJ Hairston Ft. Tim Godfrey
• Album: Single Release
• Released: 2019
• Country: Nigeria

Onaga was released by JJ Hairston Ft Tim. Godfrey and Youthful Praise in 2019 and has since remained top on the chats of African praise songs. The song has remained evergreen and popular in Nigeria and beyond.

27. Wandaga Ekissa

• Artist: Judith Babirye
• Album: Halleluya
• Released: 2015
• Country: Uganda

Wandaga Ekissa is one of Judith’s top songs released in 2015.

Judith is one of her county’s most popular gospel singers having released several excellent praise worship songs over the years.

28. Ndimi

• Artist: Janet Manyowa
• Album: Sound of Victory
• Released: 2020
• Country: South Africa

Ndimi as written and performed by Janet Manyowa has made the singer clinch awards such as Best Female Artist of Star FM in 2020. The Song also made it to Trace Africa’s Gospel hit 303 in 2020.

29. Victory

• Artist: Eben
• Album: Single Release
• Released: 2017
• Country: Nigeria

Eben’s Victory is another top African praise song that has refused to fade with the passage of time. Since its initial release in 2017, the song has retained its impact.

30. Kumama Papa

• Artist: Grace Lokwa
• Album: Single Release
• Released: 2022
• Country: Congo

Lokwa came into the limelight after his ‘Kumama Papa‘ video went viral on social media, also following a refix version of the song by Prinx Emmanuel which inspired a challenge that took over social media.

The singer was later brought to Nigeria by Moses Bliss who took him to a number of live events. He also got a record deal with Spotlight Entertainment.

The post 30 Best African Praise Songs By Great Artists appeared first on WeAfrique.

Adewale Ogunleye is a former American football player who played as a defensive end. He began his journey into American football in his high school days and eventually played in the major leagues for 11 years. Ogunleye has played for teams such as Miami Dolphins, Chicago Bears, and Houston Texans.

He is married to an American doctor and shares 2 kids with her, as of 2022. Most interesting is the fact that the former football player is a philanthropist who is now working to help athletes better their lives and finances.

Bio of Adewale Ogunleye

The former American football player was born on August 9, 1977, in the Brooklyn United States of America. His parents, Gabriel Ogunleye and Lawrencia Ogunleye moved from Nigeria to the United States before the NFL player was born. They were degree owners who also got decent jobs in the United States.

Adewale grew up with 3 siblings and lived in rough neighborhoods for most of their young days. His siblings are named Patricia, Ranti, and Dayo.

He attended Tottenville High School, Huguenot, Staten Island where he began his football pursuits. Upon graduation, he moved to Indiana University, Bloomington from 1996 to 1999. Adewale played college football before he graduated with a Bachelor’s Degree in English.

Adewale Ogunleye has links to royalty amongst the Yoruba people of Nigeria; his paternal grandfather was the king of Emure, in Ekiti State; Oba Ogunleye II Amugbayanwo, The king was born in 1922 and died in 1974. His father would have been the king following the death of Oba Ogunleye but he was still too young to ascend the throne.

Adewale’s grandfather ruled his people from 1967 until his death, years later. As a result of this relationship, Ogunleye is known to be a prince (omoba) in the Yoruba land of Ekiti state.

Adewale Played American Professional Football for 11 Years

Former NFL Pro Bowl Defensive End, Adewale Ogunleye began his professional career in 2000 when he was signed to the Miami Dolphins where he played as a free agent. Three years later, he was named to the Pro Bowl after leading the AFC with 15 sacks.

In 2004, Adewale moved to Chicago Bears where he captained the team after being there for two years. He was a player here till 2009 after which he moved to Houston Texas where he stayed for a year before his retirement.

While active in the sport, Adewale had a total tackle of 389 and 67.5 sacks. Despite his success, he retired after suffering an injury that placed him on a season-end injury while with the Bears.

Ogunleye is Married to a Dental Doctor

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Adewale Ogunleye (@waleogunleye)

On July 7, 2014, the Yoruba prince, Adewale Ogunleye, got married to a dental doctor known as Amira. She now goes by the name Doctor Amira Ogunleye and has been in the medical field in Florida for quite a while.

The marriage between the former football player and his dentist wife has birthed two children. Their first child is a daughter named Aduralere Ogunleye who was born on November 27, 2015. 2 years after her birth, Amira and Adewale gave birth to Prince Asa Ogunleye on February 6, 2017.

Here is Other Information about Adewale Ogunleye You May Have Missed

1. He is the Head of Sports and Entertainment at UBS

As of September 2021, Adewale Ogunleye began to head a segment known as ‘Athletes & Entertainers’ of the new USB wealth program. In his position, he helps sports icons and singers to plan their financial futures.

Ultimately, he aims to help entertainers and athletes build their wealth and be smart about their financial decisions.

2. Adewale Ogunleye Founded ‘Goal Power Foundation’

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Adewale Ogunleye (@waleogunleye)

Prince Adewale has always been passionate about helping people around him. He tries to promote education in whatever form. To this end, the former athlete started the Goal Power foundation in college.

The foundation aimed to expose students to different occupations bordering sports. Goal Power’s aim grew to assist needy families. Thus far, Adewale has donated food and livestock to elementary schools in New York and Chicago through the foundation.

READ ALSO: Karl Toko-Ekambi: 10 Fascinating Facts To Know About The Footballer

3. Some of His Honors and Awards

Adewale Ogunleye has received some notable awards for his stellar performances as an athlete. Some of these honors include the following:

• 3X All-Big Ten (1997, 1998, 1999)
• NFL Pro Bowl – In 2003
• NFL All-Pro – In 2003
• Dan Marino Most Valuable Player Award, Miami Dolphins – In 2002
• Indiana University Athletic Hall of Fame – In 2014

4. Adewale Ogunleye Went Back to School to Learn about Business

In 2012, the Emure prince went to The George Washington University School of Business and graduated in 2014 with an MBA in General Business Administration and Management.

5. The Prince Had an Emotional Visit to His Hometown

In 2006, Adewale Ogunleye visited his hometown. Before then, the last time he was in his country of origin once was at the age of 13. Upon his visit, the prince was welcomed by his extended relatives who were happy to see him.

In his interview, he stated that being home exposed him to a lot. He noted how his people seldom take things for granted. He differentiated life back home from what was the norm in the United States of America.

Also, he did not shy away from his philanthropic nature. While there, Prince Ogunleye aided students in his city by paying their school fees.

The post Adewale Ogunleye: Bio, Career, Marriage, Other Facts appeared first on WeAfrique.

Karrine Steffans is an American writer who is notable for her work on the Vixen book series starting with Confessions of a Video Vixen in 2005. The 45-year-old alleged controversial relationships with famous rappers like Mystikal, Jay-Z, and Lil Wayne among many others.

Aside from this, Super Head, as she is also known, has appeared in movies and music videos. She has also been involved in modeling. In a recent twist, she changed her name to Elisabeth Ovesen leading to more curiosity about who she is.

Karrine Steffans Had a Troubled Childhood Filled With Abuse

She was born on August 24, 1978, in Saint Thomas, U.S Virgin Islands. Her family moved to Florida when she turned 10, thus marking a new phase of her life. Despite this, it did not take away the poverty of her family and the abuses that her parents subjected her to. Her mother was an alcoholic while her father was indifferent.

Unfortunately for Karrine, the abuse led to her being raped for three days by an unnamed man at the age of 13. Subsequently, these experiences made her leave home at the age of 16 but they changed her views in later life. After leaving home, she worked as an exotic dancer to support herself.

In the line of her work, she met and started living with the rapper Nathaniel Wilson also known by the stage name, Kool G Rap. They had a son, Naim Wilson when she was just 17 years old. She stayed with Wilson for five years before leaving him due to domestic abuse.

She struggled to raise her son while attending college at the University of Arizona. Karrine graduated with a degree in English and Creative Writing in 2000.

She Had Controversial Relationships with Rappers

Over the years, Karrine’s intimate relationships with some of the biggest names in the music industry have made her the center of media discussions and speculations. She was linked to rappers such as Jay-Z, Dr. Dre, Lil Wayne, Usher, P Diddy, Ja Rule, Chris Brown and Mystikal, and more.

Apparently, she came into close contact with the rappers when she appeared in their music videos. She had made her debut as a video model at the age of 21 on Jay-Z’s Hey Papi. Following this, she appeared on Mystikal’s hit song Danger in 2000 leading to more roles in over twenty music videos.

During the period, notably, her relationship with Lil Wayne stands out since it lasted 8 years compared to most of the others. In fact, she was dating him while he had many children and engaged with three women. She was also rumored to be dating Jay-Z when he was Beyonce. However, she clarified that she only knew him ten years prior to speculation.

A Look At her Involvement with Mystical

Karinne has affirmed having a close relationship with Lil Wayne among her many encounters. Yet, her alleged relationship with Mystical has not been proven. Despite this, it is likely that her involvement with him started and ended with her appearance in the music video of his Danger in 2000.

Moreso, the outspoken video vixen may have stayed away from the controversial rapper due to her history of suffering from abuse and Mystikal run-ins with the law. Mystikal has clashed with the laws severally in issues involving firearms and rape. He served six years imprisonment for sexual battery charges in 2003 against his hair stylist among many other crimes.

As it is, his life after the first sentence followed another pattern of sexual offense charges. He was indicted in August 2022 on rape charges, being a registered sex offender, the two-time Grammy-nominated rapper will face life imprisonment if found guilty.

Since his relationship with Karinne was in the past, it is unclear if it was part of the abuse that she faced to secure roles in music videos or not. Nonetheless, she has not addressed his recent charges.

How She Became so Popular

Karrine’s popularity is linked to her controversial relationships and writing a book, Confessions of a Video Vixen(2005) about her encounters. While being a model in videos made her a known face,  off the camera, and per her book, she had intimate relationships to secure parts in music videos. She appeared in the 2003 movie A Man Apart. After those roles, she concentrated on writing.

Despite her past relationships resurfacing over the years, she is not bothered about it as she advises women to date as many men as possible.

The outspoken writer wrote more books following the success of her first book hence the Vixen series. Also, she started coaching women on s*x and s*xuality in 2013. She followed this by making contributions to columns as well as visiting university campuses to give speeches on the dangers of the entertainment industry.

The Writer was Married Twice

Despite her many relationships and strong view about dating many men, Karrine has been married and divorced twice. She got married to her first husband, Darius McCreary in 2009. Prior to this, they had known each other for over eight years before they started dating.

Reportedly their marriage had its share of controversies as she was dating other men. She had two boyfriends, Bow Wow and Lil Wayne at the time. According to her, her husband and the two boyfriends knew of the arrangement and they understood the task.

Unfortunately, her marriage to the actor was short-lived as they divorced 2 years later in 2011. According to Karrine, the wedding was tumultuous, yet, they continued living together after their divorce was finalized.

Moving on, she got married to a man named Damien without his knowledge of Darius. As it is, her second marriage brought to an end her relationship with Darius. There are speculations that she had a child with her second husband but the details are unclear.

See Also: Shaniqua Tompkins- Bio, Net Worth, Facts About 50 Cent’s Baby Mama

The Truth Behind Karrine Steffans Change of Name to Elisabeth Ovesen

https://www.instagram.com/p/Ce4DOiFJ1-I/

She has been associated with many things, from her Vixen series of books which explores s*x, and ‘Super Head’ due to her relationships. Yet, her sudden change of name to Elisabeth Ovesen did not go unnoticed.

Karrie revealed that she changed her name to own her story. Though she is still the same person, Karrine who is now known as Elisabeth chose the pen name to continue with her writing career. Moreso, the former video vixen revealed that her new name is another pen name just like what other writers do.

Her new identity whether pen name or not works as a copywriter for cart.com. Per her LinkedIn profile, Elisabeth is also the founder of The Gorgeous Girls Guide-a platform she uses for coaching young women.

The post Who Is Karrine Steffans, Mystikal’s Ex-Girlfriend? Unknown Details appeared first on WeAfrique.