Renowned jazz drummer Roy Haynes died in Nassau County, New York, on Tuesday at the age of 99, his daughter Leslie Haynes-Gilmore announced. Haynes’ illustrious 70-year career spanned collaborations with some of the greatest names in jazz, including Miles Davis, Charlie Parker, Sarah Vaughan, Ray Charles, Thelonious Monk, Stan Getz, and Art Blakey. Born on March 13, 1925, in Boston’s Roxbury neighborhood, Haynes began playing music in his teens and turned professional by 20. He joined saxophone player Lester Young’s band in the 1940s and later became a member of Charlie Parker’s quintet from 1949 to 1952. Haynes declined an…
Author: Omolemi Eboisetale
Nollywood actress and filmmaker Sandra Okunzuwa shared her insights on the challenges female actresses face in the industry. In an interview, Okunzuwa highlighted the immense societal expectations placed on actresses, far exceeding those of their male counterparts. “There’s societal pressure everywhere, but on actresses, it’s immense. We must constantly look good, dress up, and maintain a certain image. It’s overwhelming,” she said. To cope, Okunzuwa emphasized self-reflection, investing in one’s craft and personal brand, and continuous improvement. “Consistency, prayer, and resilience are key,” she added. Okunzuwa also discussed her challenging transition to cinema, noting difficulties securing opportunities.
Nigerian singer Kizz Daniel declined a fan’s challenge to diss Wizkid, citing respect for industry pioneers. During an online conversation with Davido’s 30BG fanbase, Kizz Daniel expressed gratitude for their support. A fan, @continentalBoy2, dared him to diss Wizkid amid the Wizkid-Davido feud. Kizz Daniel responded: “I bet 30BG will love this . Na machala and baddest workings most of us dey enjoy now, it will be unwise my brother. Respect the ones before you.” He emphasized the importance of honoring those who paved the way in the music industry.
Nigerian singer Reekado Banks has released a new single titled ‘Solo’ after a brief hiatus from the music scene. ‘Solo’, available on all streaming platforms, explores themes of breaking free from toxic relationships and self-discovery. The song’s lyrics convey Banks’ journey towards independence and growth. “You know through life’s journey some people come in your life/ And quickly start to think you can’t move on or be great without them/ You go put this one on replay/ Memories of me on replay,” he sings. “Go from Maldives to Bahamas/ Before before la mora wa/ I dey ahead of wahala/ Before…
Afrobeats superstar Davido has finally reconciled with Nollywood actress Eniola Badmus. The reconciliation came two years after they fell out. The duo reconciled at celebrity Pastor Tobi Adeboyega’s birthday in the UK. Badmus made headlines in October 2022 for announcing the death of Davido’s son, Ifeanyi Adeleke, and reportedly exploiting the toddler’s death for monetary gains. Following the incident, the singer unfollowed the actress on social media. However, in a now-trending video on social media, the actress was spotted at the party having a chat with Davido.
Nigerian gospel singer Damilare Odunuga, aka Dare Melody, has recounted the hardships he faced with his late wife Adedoyin, including how his family’s behaviour created difficulties for her. Dare Melody’s wife passed away on October 24, 2024, at age 47. During her Christian wake held at his residence, Dare Melody opened up about how his family consistently frustrated Adedoyin when she was alive. “My family frustrated Adedoyin; I’ll hold her and say, ‘Adedoyin, I’m the one you married, and whenever you see me, put your mind at rest,’” he said. He spoke about how she stood by him through times…
Nollywood actress and filmmaker Georgina Ibeh has expressed frustration with actors dictating casting choices for her films. On November 12, 2024, Ibeh took to Instagram, detailing her experience with actors imposing casting demands before agreeing to work on her projects. “This has been happening… I’d call an actor for a job, and after negotiation and payment, they ask, ‘Who is in the movie?’ Okay, this is normal… But some people suggest cast that should be in the movie you’re paying them to act in. They’ll only act if you use their suggested person.” Ibeh expressed disbelief, citing an incident where…
Nollywood actor and social media personality Enioluwa has explained why the Nigerian film industry uses the ‘same faces’ in movies. It all began on November 11, 2024, when an X user reacted to actress Jemima Osunde’s post on X regarding the new YouTube film Fame and Fury, saying, “I’m sincerely tired of seeing the same faces in this damn industry.” The actress did not take her comment lightly and retorted, saying, “We’re tired of seeing your face too in your office. Damn! I hope they sack you.” Enioluwa then took to X to address the notion of Nollywood using familiar…
Leonardo DiCaprio marked his 50th birthday with an exclusive party at his Hollywood Hills residence, a day before his actual birthday. The event was a refined gathering attended by A-list celebrities. The guest list included Tobey Maguire, Emile Hirsch, Edward Norton, Benicio Del Toro, Jamie Foxx, Bill Maher, Chuck Liddell, Chris Rock, Orlando Bloom, Steven Spielberg, Paris Hilton, Katy Perry, Robin Thicke, Cara Delevingne, Dr. Dre, Anderson Paak, Tyga, and Brad Pitt with his girlfriend, Ines de Ramon. DiCaprio’s family, including his 81-year-old father George and stepmother Peggy, also joined in the celebration. The evening’s emotional highlight came when music…
Megan Fox announced her pregnancy on Instagram, sharing photos from her maternity shoot and a positive home test. The couple’s first child together comes after a previous pregnancy loss. Fox, already mom to three sons with ex Brian Austin Green, and Kelly, dad to a daughter, are expecting their fourth and second child, respectively. The pair met in 2020 on the set of Midnight in the Switchgrass and got engaged in January 2022. Fox’s announcement caption, “Nothing is ever really lost. Welcome back,” references MGK’s song about their past pregnancy loss.
Jaywon has tendered an apology to Ayra Starr following backlash for his perceived jab at her Grammy nomination snub. Ayra Starr missed the Grammy award nomination list, prompting Jaywon to share a post deemed provocative. However, he later apologized, praising Ayra Starr as one of Africa’s best female vocalists. Jaywon wrote: “If you see Ayra Starr, tell her I’m sorry she wasn’t nominated. I’m a huge fan of her music.” He emphasized his support, stating, “On this side, we don’t pull people down. We elevate, not just for today, but for the future.”
Veteran Nollywood actor, Bimbo Manuel, has spoken out against the perceived extravagance of some colleagues, insisting that their luxurious lifestyles are often a facade. “I prefer a humble life,” Manuel emphasized. “I can go to the fish market whenever I want, and that feels like wealth to me.” Manuel questioned the authenticity of actors owning Range Rovers and mansions, citing the fluctuating nature of actors’ fees. “Experience counts, and rates vary. Sometimes, you’ll take on a project for a friend at a lower rate.” He bluntly stated, “No Nigerian actor can afford a Range Rover solely on acting fees. It’s…