Over the course of three EPs and four albums, the 29-year-old Nigeria body rapper and singer has quietly built a body of work that charts his evolution. He has easily evolved into one of Nigeria’s most musical shapeshifters. - Clash Magazine
Nigerian rap provocateur Blaqbonez is turning the clock back to where it all began. On his new single “Hustle Kpa,” featuring Artsalghul, the Chocolate City star strips away the theatrics and revisits the raw hunger that powered his ascent from underground battler to one of Africa’s most dynamic hip-hop voices.
“Hustle Kpa” arrives as the lead single from the forthcoming No Excuses (Deluxe), scheduled for release later this month, extending the narrative of Blaqbonez’s fifth studio album No Excuses, which dropped in October 2025 and has already crossed 100 million cumulative streams across digital platforms. The original project delivered standout records like “ACL” and “Despacito” featuring FOLA, both of which individually surpassed 10 million streams, reinforcing the album’s commercial and cultural impact.
But while "No Excuses" celebrated the results of Blaqbonez’s relentless ambition, “Hustle Kpa” focuses on the grind that made it possible.
Over a hard-edged, streetwise production, Blaqbonez raps with the urgency of someone who still remembers every sleepless night and every dismissed dream. The record channels the spirit of his formative years — when he was sharpening his pen in Nigeria’s battle rap circuit, freestyling relentlessly, and pushing his music through sheer willpower. Artsalghul complements the record’s ethos with a performance that underscores the song’s central theme: the unglamorous labour behind success.
It’s a reflective but triumphant moment for an artist whose career has been defined by reinvention. Born Akumefule Chukwuemeka George, Blaqbonez began rapping at 13 and first gained traction while studying at Obafemi Awolowo University, where his freestyle culture and online presence built a cult following. His early dominance in Nigeria’s battle rap scene — including winning Terry The Rapman’s Zombie competition and the Hennessy VS Class of 2015 — signaled the arrival of a formidable lyricist.
His trajectory accelerated after signing with Chocolate City Music’s 100 Crowns imprint, where he released “Bad Boy Blaq,” a project that debuted at #1 on the iTunes Nigeria Hip-Hop chart and marked the beginning of a prolific run. Over the years, Blaqbonez has continued to expand his sonic universe across projects like Sex Over Love, Young Preacher, and Emeka Must Shine, blending hip-hop, Afrobeats, drill, and alternative influences while cultivating a reputation as one of the continent’s most inventive personalities.
By the time No Excuses arrived in 2025, Blaqbonez had already become more than a rapper — he was a cultural strategist, an internet-savvy provocateur, and arguably one of the most visible champions of African hip-hop’s modern evolution.
With “Hustle Kpa,” he reminds listeners that before the accolades, endorsements, sold-out shows, and viral moments, there was simply the work.
Rising Afrobeats artist Taene returns with her most confident and defining release yet, “Million Girl,” available worldwide on March 6 across all major streaming platforms.
“Million Girl” is an unapologetic celebration of femininity, individuality, and self-worth. Driven by infectious Afrobeats production, striking melodies, and Taene’s fiery delivery, the single boldly declares what she has always embodied: she is one in a million.
“I’m particularly excited about this era because this is music I’m very proud of. It’s genuinely music I would listen to on repeat,” says Taene. “Confidence is a huge part of my brand and one of my strongest suits, so why not make an anthem emphasizing the fact that I’m the baddest? I am literally one in a million.”
With this release, Taene fully embraces her power. The record reflects a woman who does not seek validation, who stands firmly in her uniqueness, and who refuses to shrink herself for anyone. It’s bold, fearless, and intentionally empowering.
More than a personal statement, “Million Girl” is designed as an anthem for women everywhere , across every age, size, and background.
“The best thing about being an artist and a songwriter is that I can pen down whatever I’m feeling and make it cool,” she adds. “I want every girl out there to feel nothing short of special, cool, and honestly, sexy. They are beautiful, desired, and magical creatures who deserve to be celebrated.”
As Afrobeats continues to expand globally, Taene positions herself as part of the genre’s new wave, blending cultural rhythm with contemporary edge and global appeal. “Million Girl” marks a defining chapter in her artistic growth, reflecting elevated confidence, clarity, and creative direction.
With anticipation building, the single is set to make a strong impact across streaming platforms, social media, and radio.
“Million Girl” will be available worldwide on March 6.
Through his lens JPEGBYPRINCE is doing more than capturing moments - he is chronicling the evolution of youth culture. A student of the game. The young king of youth culture documentation. His photography sits at the intersection of music, nightlife, fashion, and youth expression, creating a visual diary of what Nigerian youth culture looks and feels like in real time.
The images reveal a culture that is loud, expressive and unapologetically alive. On stage, artists stand bathed in intense reds and electric blues, controlling crowds and transforming performances into cinematic spectacles. These are not just concert photos; they are portraits of a movement. The sweat, the stage lights, the gestures into the microphone - every frame preserves the raw energy that defines the current era of Nigerian music.
In these scenes, the artist becomes more than a performer. They are symbols of ambition and possibility for a generation that sees music as both expression and escape. Jpegbyprince's compositions frame them as larger-than-life figures, silhouetted against dramatic lighting and immersive stage design. The result is imagery that reflects how deeply music is embedded in youth identity today.
But his work doesn't stop at the stage. Turning his camera towards nightlife spaces, dance floors, and intimate cultural moments, he captures the environments where youth culture breathes. The neon glow of club signage, the crowded dance floors, and the DJ controlling the atmosphere all speak to a vibrant ecosystem surrounding Nigerian music - one where community and youth culture thrives.
What makes Jpegbyprince's work particularly significant is timing. Nigeria's music industry is expanding globally, and the culture around it is evolving rapidly. His photographs act as visual evidence of this transformation. Years from now, these images will not simply be seen as event photography; they will serve as historical records of a generation that helped push Nigerian music into a new global era.
In documenting these spaces - the stages, the raves, the crowds and the artistes - Jpegbyprince is quietly shaping the visual memory of Nigerian youth culture. His work captures the spirit of a scene that is still unfolding, ensuring that the energy, style and ambition of this moment are preserved long after this era fades.
CREDITS
Written by: Mofiyinfoluwa Olulana
Images 2,3,4,5 : JPEGBYPRINCE
A. The process usually begins visually. Emotions create a mental image in my head, and I reflect on the question that image might be answering. I sketch loosely and sit with the idea until it fully forms. From there, I experiment visually with characters, line work, and color. The final stage is about restraint; knowing when to stop, when the piece has said enough without over-explaining itself.
In 2004, Sunny Neji released “Tolotolo,” a song that quickly became a staple in Nigerian R&B and a soundtrack for a generation that understood playful, expressive love. Twenty-two years later, a new voice has entered the conversation.
In a full-circle moment bridging two eras, Nyinée shared her single with Sunny Neji ahead of its release. His response on social media was simple and affirming: “Nice song,” accompanied by a few emojis. For Nyinée, that brief endorsement carried weight. “I’m truly delighted and honored,” she shares. “For a legend like Sunny Neji to even listen and respond means so much. I’m optimistic to meet him soon and thank him personally.”
With warm vocals, honest storytelling, and a contemporary AfroSoulé sound, Nyinée’s “Tolotolo” honors the past while confidently defining her own lane.
“Tolotolo” was released on February 19 and is officially available on all streaming platforms.
Philosophy has many different meanings; sometimes people tell you about their philosophy of life. They usually mean their deepest and most abiding beliefs or things that guide them to behave or do things in a particular manner. Spirkin (1983) posits that, "philosophy and art differ principally according to their subject-matter and also the means by which they reflect, transform and express it". In a certain sense, art, like philosophy, reflects reality in its relation to humans and depicts humans, their spiritual world, and the relations between individuals in their interaction with the world. Philosophy, as it relates to art, deals with the ideas and beliefs that drive and guide one into the creation of artworks. In this case, philosophy of art seems to be all- encompassing, as ideas could emanate from the artist’s socio-cultural environment, psychological, scientific, and sociological inclinations. Thus, most artists' artworks are driven by ideas and philosophies, and BemiStudi0 is not in isolation when it comes to that.
BemiStudi0’s symbolic series of paintings is philosophically inclined and engages with ideas drawn from existentialism, metaphysics, stoicism, and theological narratives. Through this gamut of works, BemiStudi0 reflects on fundamental questions about human existence and the nature of reality. The paintings explore themes of isolation, power, perception, and the limits of human understanding, presenting them in ways that invite reflection rather than direct answers.
In this series of paintings, BemiStudi0 philosophically attempts to capture life in its totality, even while acknowledging that life itself resists clear definition. Each painting becomes a visual investigation into what it means to exist, to perceive, and to endure within uncertain conditions. Rather than offering fixed meanings, the works remain open-ended, allowing viewers to bring their own experiences and interpretations into the encounter. Thus, the idea of unresolved runs throughout the series, emphasising uncertainty and unanswered questions. BemiStudi0 uses form, space, and symbolism to suggest philosophical positions without settling into a single narrative or conclusion. As a result, the paintings touch on different aspect of philosophical theories while remaining grounded in lived experience. Together, they form a contemplative space where thought, emotion, and belief intersect, reminding us of the complexity and fragility of human existence.
Perspective on Hello?
In the painting titled Hello?, BemiStudi0 depicts a male figure seated on what appears to be a box with an opening that suggests a hole. The male figure is painted in a mint green hue, while the background is painted mainly in dark blue, with other shades of blue, touches of red, and small areas of yellow. The background colours create a sense of tension and reflect the complexity of life. The contrast between the background colours and the mint green tone of the figure strengthens the composition and draws attention to the subject.
One of the striking aspects of the painting is the way the figure’s head is covered with what appears to be an oversized hat that completely hides the face. This disguise removes any clear identity or expression, suggesting anonymity and emotional withdrawal. The seated posture of the figure suggests stress, waiting, and expectation. The figure holds a telephone to the right ear with the right hand, an action that implies an attempt at communication. However, the absence of any visible response heightens uncertainty. As suggested by the title Hello?, the moment captured in the painting feels like a question that remains unanswered. See plate i one for Hello?
Plate i, Hello? Acrylic on Canvas. 2025
Philosophically, Hello? reflects ideas of existential isolation and interpretive relativism. The hidden face suggests the loss of individuality and the difficulty of being truly seen or understood in the modern world. The telephone, which ordinarily represents connection, becomes a symbol of silence and emotional distance. This reflects the human condition in which individuals seek meaning, connection, and reassurance, yet often encounter uncertainty and unanswered questions. Consequently, sometimes in life, despite repeated questioning and effort, answers do not always come. In this sense, the painting captures a moment of suspension, between hope and despair, communication and silence, presence and absence. The painting does not offer a solution but instead invites viewers to reflect on their own experiences of waiting, doubt, and unresolved questions. Through its restrained imagery and symbolic elements, Hello? remains faithful to the philosophical spirit of the series, emphasising uncertainty as an essential part of human existence.
Conclusion
In conclusion, this review has examined the philosophical inclinations in BemiStudi0’s symbolic series with a focus on the painting Hello?. Drawing from philosophical ideas rooted in existentialism, metaphysics, and interpretive uncertainty, the review shows how BemiStudi0 uses visual language to engage with fundamental questions about human existence, perception, and meaning. Rather than providing clear answers, the painting emphasises ambiguity and unresolved inquiry as central conditions of life. Finally, Hello? underpins the philosophical position that meaning is not fixed but continually shaped by experience and interpretation. By leaving questions unanswered, BemiStudi0 allows space for reflection and personal engagement, encouraging viewers to confront their own uncertainties and unresolved moments. The painting, like the symbolic series as a whole, affirms that uncertainty is not a weakness but a defining aspect of human existence. Through this open-ended approach, BemiStudi0’s work successfully bridges art and philosophy, offering a contemplative space where thought, emotion, and lived experience intersect.
This Piece was written by: Faida Samuel
Critic & Curator
Department of Fine Art
Faculty of Environmental Design
Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria
faidasamuel@gmail.com
Nigerian producer NYRP (Not Your Regular Producer) has officially released his first single of the year, “Take Control,” featuring Nigerian vocalist Shorae Moore and Colombian artist EL RM. The record marks a bold new chapter for NYRP as he continues to position himself as one of the leading African producers driving cross-continent collaborations.
“Take Control” is a smooth, emotionally charged Afro-pop record built on confidence, vulnerability, and emotional clarity. The song seamlessly blends Shorae Moore’s soulful Nigerian delivery with EL RM’s textured Mexican influence, all brought together by NYRP’s polished, globally-minded production style.
With this release, NYRP intentionally stretches beyond regional boundaries, pairing African and Mexican artistry on the record a move that reflects his growing vision of African producers as cultural connectors in global music conversations. Rather than following trends, NYRP is actively shaping a sound that travels across borders while remaining rooted in authenticity.
“Take Control” arrives on the back of a strong 2025 run for NYRP, whose catalog continues to grow quietly but impactfully. Over the past year, he has worked across records and projects with L.A.X, Taves, Ayo Maff, Jinmi Abduls, Candy Bleakz, King Perry, Terri, and several rising artists.
An alumnus of the Sarz Academy, NYRP’s sound is shaped by both technical excellence and deep musical roots. His journey began in the church choir at age seven, evolving through live instrumentation before transitioning fully into music production and songwriting a background that continues to inform his layered and intentional approach to music.
With “Take Control,” NYRP opens the year not just with a new release, but with a clear statement of intent: African producers can lead global collaborations, not just participate in them.
Women in Music Tanzania (WIM Tanzania) a professional community and industry platform, is delighted to appoint Nina Brianna Sokoine as its Vice Chair. This appointment bolsters WIM Tanzania’s leadership as it continues to expand access, learning visibility and practical pathways supporting a more structured and sustainable music industry.
Nina is a legal and creative professional from Tanzania, who brings her expertise to the meeting point of music, business strategy and industry growth. Her focus is on creating the foundations for culture, such as partnerships, governance and systems that support creative talent and businesses in thriving over time.
WIM Tanzania leadership noted that ‘Nina brings a rare mix of industry know-how and strong work ethic’. ‘Her experience in music operations, entertainment law, partnerships and building the industry ecosystem really fits in with our goal of helping women find real opportunities and build lasting careers in the industry.’
Nina has a wealth of experience in the music industry, having worked in both operational and advisory capacities. Before that, she was an Operations Manager at an Artist Management Company in Tanzania, where she helped with the day-to-day operations and the business aspects of artist careers. Additionally, she was a corporate attorney and entertainment law advisor at Breakthrough Attorneys, where she supported entertainment and business matters, particularly focusing on professional structure and ensuring long-term success.
Nina is currently working as an Associate (IP, Media & Corporate Law) at Quinn Law Chambers, Project Manager at the Tanzania Kreative Business Hub and Head of Strategic Partnerships at BXTRA. In addition to these roles, she is leading her own projects in branding and communications, which gives her a unique view on cultural strategy and building the industry.
Nina’s role as Vice Chair is to enhance WIM Tanzania’s impact. This involves strengthening industry relationships, supporting capacity-building and confidence-building programmes and translating community efforts into nationwide, African and global outcomes. Her focus is on career access, knowledge, visibility and sustainable opportunities for women within the music industry.
About Women in Music Tanzania (WIM Tanzania)
Women in Music Tanzania is a professional community and platform that helps women thrive in music and related creative areas. WIM Tanzania focuses on growth by connecting people, sharing knowledge, making women more visible and building the industry. These efforts aim to increase access, improve pathways and create a more sustainable creative environment.
"I am proud to welcome Nina as our new Vice Chair. Her passion, leadership and commitment to uplifting women in the music industry reflect the values of our organization. I am confident that together we will continue to build stronger opportunities, visibility and impact for women in music across Tanzania."- Jusnah Gadi , WIM Tanzania Chair.
WIM Tanzania is officially back and better than ever. Expansion has already begun and we’re seeking members who share our vision of cultivating greatness in the music industry for women. Membership registration is ongoing so don’t miss out – the year ahead is packed with surprises designed to broaden your learning networking and many other opportunities. Keep an eye on our socials; you never know what you might discover.
Multidisciplinary artist Vyn Lorenzo, visionary painter, fashion creator, and musician, takes a major step in his international career today by announcing the signing of an exclusive global management deal with multi-Grammy producer and world-renowned artistic strategist DannyBoyStyles
Under this groundbreaking partnership, DannyBoyStyles becomes Vyn Lorenzo’s exclusive global creative manager and strategic partner, overseeing the development of his music, art, and cultural presence worldwide. At the same time, Navarro W. Gray joins as Vyn Lorenzo’s lead lawyer and business manager, handling all legal, contractual, and financial aspects of the artist’s projects.This dual-structured team combines creativity, strategic guidance, and legal security, providing Vyn Lorenzo with a solid platform to reach new global audiences.
Vyn Lorenzo: A Creator Who Transcends Disciplines
Vyn Lorenzo has established himself as a singular artist, blending contemporary painting, fashion, design, and music into bold and immersive experiences. Every project reflects his unique identity, where aesthetics and emotion converge to create works that resonate visually and culturally.
With DannyBoyStyles’ strategic guidance and Navarro W. Gray’s legal and business oversight, Vyn Lorenzo can structure his career while maintaining complete creative freedom.
DannyBoyStyles: A Top-Tier Creative Partner
Multi-Grammy award-winning producer DannyBoyStyles has shaped some of the most influential musical projects of the past decade. His ability to craft distinctive sonic universes and develop international careers makes him an ideal strategic ally for Vyn Lorenzo.
Among his landmark collaborations are The Weeknd (Kiss Land, Beauty Behind the Madness), Beyoncé (6 Inch – Lemonade), and projects with Juicy J, French Montana, NAV, and Belly. These successes have cemented his reputation as a masterful architect capable of elevating artists to global recognition.
Simultaneously, Navarro W. Gray supervises legal protection, contracts, partnerships, and financial strategy for Vyn Lorenzo. His role ensures that every creative or commercial initiative is secure, sustainable, and aligned with the artist’s international ambitions.
A Comprehensive Global Strategy
This strategic partnership offers Vyn Lorenzo:
• Creative direction and global management: DannyBoyStyles
• Legal and business management: Navarro W. Gray
By combining artistic vision, international networks, and legal expertise, Vyn Lorenzo enters a new phase where visual art, music, and branding converge to create a strong, cohesive global presence.
Towards Enhanced Global Recognition
With DannyBoyStyles and Navarro W. Gray at his side, Vyn Lorenzo reaches a historic milestone, solidifying his position among the most influential figures in contemporary art and global culture. This collaboration represents the perfect fusion of creativity, excellence, and strategic vision, paving the way for new collaborations and sustainable worldwide impact.
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