Spotify, an online streaming platform, has unveiled a soundtrack,  “The Sound of Hope”, to celebrate Nigeria’s 64th Independence Anniversary.

Phiona Okumu, Spotify’s Head of Music for Sub-Saharan Africa, disclosed this in a statement on Monday in Lagos.

Okumu said, “Spotify’s soundtrack of independence celebrates Nigeria’s music, as Nigeria celebrates its 64th Independence Day.

“Spotify is joining the festivities with “The Sounds of Nigeria” campaign. This campaign aims to honour the country’s rich musical heritage, which has long been a unifying force and a source of pride for Nigerians.

“Nigerians have always had a deep love for music, and their resilient spirit shines through in the global success of Nigerian artistes.

“Spotify is honoured to celebrate a nation that continues to make Africa proud, amplifying the sounds and stories that resonate far beyond its borders.”

Okumu said starting from Sept. 29 to Oct. 3, music lovers would be able to discover music destinations celebrating Nigeria’s independence within the Afro and Afrobeats hubs on Spotify.

She noted that this selection of destinations includes the “Good Old Naija Days”, “Naija New School”, “Naija No Dey Carry Last” and the “Sounds of Nigeria”.

According to her, the Good Old Naija Days takes listeners on a nostalgic journey through the classic hits that had defined Nigerian music over the years.

“This destination features timeless songs from legendary artistes that have shaped the nation’s musical landscape.

“Naija No Dey Carry Last celebrates the resilience and spirit of Nigerian music. This destination showcases the songs that have inspired and uplifted the nation, reminding us of the power of music to unite and persevere.

“The Naija New School Naija spotlights the hottest new acts and cutting-edge sounds in Nigerian music, highlighting the artistes and tracks driving the industry forward.

“The Sounds of Nigeria on the other hand celebrates the stories that shape our identity, highlighting the rich and diverse musical traditions of Nigeria,” she said.

Okumu noted that to further enrich the campaign experience, Spotify was collaborating with renowned content creator and Disc Jockey, Justin UG, for a takeover of the Internet Famous Playlist.

She said Justin UG, known for his creative content, love of Nigerian music and culture, would introduce a wider audience to new sounds and perspectives.

She noted that in addition to the curated destinations and takeover, Spotify will also introduce two new playlists: “Naija Gospel Throwback” and “Nigerian Highlife”.

“Naija Gospel Throwback celebrates the history of Nigerian gospel music with classic anthems, while Nigerian Highlife showcases the vibrant and upbeat genre with its infectious rhythms and catchy melodies.

“Join us in celebrating Nigeria’s Independence Day with Spotify’s “The Sounds of Nigeria”.

“Discover new music, connect with your favourite artistes through their sounds, and immerse yourself in the rich cultural heritage of Nigerian music,” she said.

The Actors Guild of Nigeria (AGN) has organised a candlelight procession to pay tribute to late Nollywood actors John Okafor, popularly known as ‘Mr Ibu’, Amaechi Muonagor and Zulu Adigwe.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the thespians, alongside fans and friends of the late veterans, gathered for the procession at the Unity Fountain on Monday night in Abuja.

The procession was led by Emeka Rollas, National President of the AGN, alongside veteran actors Kenneth Okonkwo, Zack Orji, and Sidney Idiala, among others.

In a heartfelt display of respect and emotions, the attendees took turns to pay tribute to the fallen heroes for their contributions to the Nigerian film industry.

Mercy  Salma, FCT mayor of AGN, said the event was to show appreciation and honour for the life and times of the late actors.

“These are Nollywood veterans who put smiles on the faces of Nigerians during their lifetime, so we should celebrate their legacies and memories.

“They have both the young and the old Nigerians, and even across Africa and beyond as their fans.”

“So this procession is to show that we love them and appreciate their sacrifices and contributions to our industry and nation at large,” she said.

In his speech, Emeka Rollas said the procession was to demonstrate the solidarity that exists in the actors guild and to reflect on the moments they shared with the late thespians.

According to the AGN helmsman, the candlelight service was also an occasion for actors to reflect on how they want to be remembered at the end of their works.

“This is a season of sorrow for us at the AGN, our hearts are filled with grief over the loss of our three veteran members.

“But as the saying goes, when someone you love becomes a memory, the memory becomes a treasure.

“The Late John Okafor, Amaechi Monaugor and Zulu Adigwe lived a life that exemplified brilliance and inspired emulation.

“They also lived a life that burned so that others’ paths were lit, and they made an impact on the society through their profession.

“Today we are here to honour them, not only by profoundly feeling and expressing our loss, but also to remember their amazing personalities.

“They all played unique and special roles in all of our lives and the acting profession and they were loyal colleagues and special friends to many of us.

“Today,  we honour these men as we recall special moments, they were living proof of how fine a person can be, with caring hearts to their friends and colleagues, loving and devoted fathers to their children.

They gave their all in their acting careers as they worked with passion, integrity and energy and our hearts and prayers are with their families at this most difficult time,” he said.

(NAN)

Award-winning music sensation Yemi Alade says her highly anticipated sixth studio album, ‘Rebel Queen’, is poised to break musical boundaries and inspire a new wave of artists.

The album, her 10th musical project, is a testament to her innovative spirit and commitment to pushing the boundaries of African music.

In an interview with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) in Lagos, Yemi Alade shared her vision for the album, stating, “I am a true rebel in words and in action.

“I’ve always charted my own course and walked the path less travelled. ‘Rebel Queen’ embodies this spirit, blending the new and old, the familiar and the unexpected.

“The 16-track album will take listeners on a sonic journey across Africa, showcasing diverse tempos and rhythms, with features from acclaimed artists from around the world,” she said.

The “Johnny” hit maker also revealed “Each song is a unique capsule of my thoughts, melodies, and a truckload of nostalgia.

“I’ve poured my heart and soul into this project, and I’m confident it will resonate with fans of all ages and backgrounds.

“ ‘Rebel Queen’ delves into themes of femininity, style, dance, motivation, liberation, and consciousness,” she said.

She emphasised, “I’m not afraid to explore new sounds and challenge the status quo.

“This album is a reflection of my growth, creativity, and passion for music that transcends borders and generations.”

“Get ready to experience the revolutionary sound of Africa’s Rebel Queen,” she concluded.

(NAN)