Entertainment
See how much Nigerian and South African musicians earned from Spotify last year

Artists from Nigeria and South Africa raked in a combined $59 million in royalties from Spotify in 2024, as global appetite for African music continued to soar, according to data released by the streaming platform.
The Swedish audio streaming giant announced that Nigerian musicians earned over $38 million, more than twice the amount paid out in 2023, while their South African counterparts took home $21 million, marking a 54% year-on-year increase.
The surge in earnings reflects the growing popularity of African sounds on the international stage, driven by global chart-toppers like Nigeria’s Burna Boy and South Africa’s Grammy-winning vocalist Tyla.
“What we’re seeing is an excellent evolution around more and more mid-tier or up-and-coming artists making a living,” said Jocelyne Muhutu-Remy, Spotify’s Managing Director for Sub-Saharan Africa in an interview with Reuters.
Spotify paid out approximately $10 billion in royalties worldwide last year, and while Africa still makes up a relatively small share of the platform’s global payouts, it is rapidly becoming a hotspot for musical growth.
According to Spotify, around 250 million user-generated playlists now feature at least one Nigerian artist, while 220 million playlists include a South African act — underscoring the continent’s expanding influence on global listening habits.
The growth is not limited to domestic markets. Nigerian artists have experienced a 49% increase in export growth over the past three years, while South African musicians recorded an even more dramatic 104% growth in international streams.
In terms of individual earnings, Spotify noted that the number of Nigerian artists making at least 10 million Naira annually has doubled year-on-year, and tripled since 2022. For South African artists, those earning between 100,000 and 500,000 Rand also doubled over the past three years.
With Afrobeats, Amapiano, and other genres steadily gaining ground globally, Spotify’s latest figures reaffirm the commercial viability and global appeal of African music — and hint at even greater returns for the continent’s artists in the years to come.
Source: Graphic online
Entertainment
AirTV Appoints Zolla Nie as New General Manager

In a strategic move to strengthen its leadership team and expand its market presence, Airtv has announced the appointment of Zolla Nie as its new General Manager. The appointment, effective immediately, marks a significant milestone in Airtv’s ongoing growth trajectory and its commitment to delivering innovative entertainment solutions.
Zolla Nie, an influential figure in the music industry, has an impressive and varied career characterised by his collaborative work with both celebrated international artists and promising local musicians. Throughout his career, he has been instrumental in executing numerous artist activations, skilfully coordinating a multitude of events that garner attention on both local and global scales. His experience includes significant roles as an artist liaison for major events, such as the AfroNation festival, a vibrant celebration of African culture and music and the highly acclaimed Wizkid Live In Concert, where he facilitated seamless interactions between performers and audiences.
Born Emmanuel Boakye Bidewtey, Zolla possesses a profound understanding of the entertainment industry’s complexities, having worked extensively within its many facets. This deep knowledge not only equips him with valuable insights but also allows him to navigate the intricacies of the fraternity with ease and authority. His commitment to supporting and promoting music in his region is further highlighted by his leadership roles as an Executive Member for prestigious awards such as the Eastern Music Awards, Emerging Music Awards, and Brong Ahafo Music Awards. These positions underscore his dedication to recognising and uplifting musical talent, showcasing his immense passion for the profession.
Beyond his PR responsibilities, Zolla is distinguished as one of the elite bloggers who consistently break credible news, making him a trusted authority in the arts sector. He has earned a reputation for his investigative prowess, as he diligently seeks out substantial and relevant information that informs the public about developments in the arts. His commitment to transparency and integrity has made him a go-to source among industry insiders and fans alike.
Zolla’s presence in the industry is both palpable and significant; he maintains a robust and engaging profile on social media, where he interacts with a vast audience. His ability to connect with fans and industry professionals has garnered him a large following, amplifying his influence both online and offline.
As a skilled media and communication professional, Zolla is proficient in various areas, including coaching, strategic planning, digital marketing, and event management. His diverse expertise enables him to approach the industry from multiple angles, ensuring that he remains at the forefront of evolving trends. His unwavering commitment to addressing pertinent issues within the art world further enhances his credibility and respect, positioning him as a leading voice within the community.
Airtv is a leading digital entertainment platform dedicated to providing high-quality streaming services across multiple regions. With a diverse content library and a user-centric approach, Airtv continues to be a preferred choice for viewers seeking engaging and accessible entertainment options.
Entertainment
[EDITORIAL] Daddy Lumba’s Death: A Legacy Earned, Not Just Lived

The saddened passing of Charles Kwadwo Fosu, popularly known as Daddy Lumba, marks a significant moment in Ghana’s cultural and musical history. More than just the death of a beloved highlife icon, his departure reminds us of the power of a legacy built not by mere existence but by tireless effort, sacrifice, and unwavering consistency.
Over the decades, Daddy Lumba became more than a musician. He was a movement — a voice that echoed through the hearts of Ghanaians both at home and abroad. His music told stories of love, pain, hustle, and triumph, all wrapped in rhythms that defined generations.
But one may ask: Was his legacy something he lived into by chance, or something he earned through deliberate action?
It’s a fair question. In a world where fame is often fleeting and influence can be manufactured overnight, Daddy Lumba stood as a symbol of authenticity. From humble beginnings to nationwide acclaim, every milestone in his career bore the fingerprints of hard work, personal sacrifice, and a deep connection to his audience.
There were times when even fans questioned whether his success was driven by branding or by true substance. But looking back, it becomes clear his journey was not accidental. It was crafted. It was fought for. It was earned.
Notable Achievements: A Musical Trailblazer
Daddy Lumba’s career spanned over three decades and produced more than 30 studio albums, making him one of the most prolific Ghanaian musicians of all time. His debut album “Yɛɛyɛ Aka Akwantuo Mu” (1989), in collaboration with Nana Acheampong, was a turning point for Ghanaian highlife music and introduced a new wave of modern highlife with a romantic edge.
Some of his biggest hits, including “Aben Wɔ Ha”, “Theresa”, “Sika Asɛm”, “Asee Ho”, and “Ebi Se 3yɛ Wo Ya”, became anthems in Ghana and beyond. His lyrics often reflected real-life situations, earning him admiration across age groups and class lines.
He won numerous awards, including multiple Ghana Music Awards and Lifetime Achievement recognitions. His ability to remain relevant in a fast-changing music industry without compromising his signature style is a testament to his brilliance and staying power.
Notably, Daddy Lumba was also known for mentoring and supporting emerging talents. Many artists, including Ofori Amponsah and Great Ampong, credit part of their rise to his influence and guidance.
Beyond the music, he became a household brand — his voice, appearance, and persona synonymous with quality and prestige in Ghanaian music.
A Legacy to Be Celebrated
Whether you admired him for his lyrical genius, vocal uniqueness, stage presence, or his trademark flair, there’s no denying the impact he made. His name became a cultural trademark not only in music but in the hearts of millions.
As Ghana mourns this profound loss, it is only right that we also celebrate the legend while reflecting on the values he stood for: dedication, perseverance, and excellence. Daddy Lumba’s legacy is not just in his songs; it’s in the standard he set for every aspiring artist.
In death, as in life, he remains unforgettable.
And that is the mark of a legacy truly earned.
Entertainment
Lilwin Declares himself King of Ghana Movies at ‘Captain Ibrahim Traoré’ Premiere

Popular Ghanaian actor and filmmaker Kwadwo Nkansah, widely known as Lil Win, has once again demonstrated his versatility and vision with the successful premiere of his latest movie, Captain Ibrahim Traore (The Last African Hero). The grand event, held at the Kumasi SG Mall, drew a star-studded audience and high-profile dignitaries from Ghana and beyond, making it one of the most impactful film premieres in recent Ghanaian cinematic history.
The movie, inspired by the bold and rising leader of Burkina Faso, Captain Ibrahim Traore, explores themes of African unity, leadership, and resistance against neo-colonialism. Through a captivating storyline and powerful performances, Lil Win brings to the screen a narrative that challenges Western portrayals of African leadership while celebrating the courage and resilience of the continent’s youth.
The premiere was graced by key government ministers, traditional leaders, and the Ambassador of Burkina Faso to Ghana, who praised the film for its strong Pan-African message and cultural significance. Security was tight, and media coverage widespread, reflecting the magnitude of the event.
“This movie is not just entertainment, it’s a message. A call to African pride and strength. We need to celebrate our heroes while they’re still alive,” Lil Win said in his address at the premiere. “Captain Traore represents hope for the future of Africa.”
Attendees were visibly moved by the powerful storytelling and applauded Lil Win for daring to spotlight a contemporary African leader in a heroic light, a rare move in Ghanaian mainstream film.
Aside from his acting and directorial work, Lil Win’s production company also ensured high production quality, blending local authenticity with a cinematic edge that rivals international standards. The film was shot across various locations in Ghana and includes a blend of action, drama, and political commentary.
Social media has since been buzzing with positive reactions, with many praising Lil Win for taking a bold step in shifting the focus of Ghanaian cinema toward continental consciousness and leadership advocacy.
With Captain Ibrahim Traore (The Last African Hero), Lil Win is not just telling a story — he’s sending a clear message: Africa has its heroes, and their stories deserve to be told on the big screen.
Story By : Zolla Nie (Livenewsgh)
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