Entertainment
Nigerian Singer Ayra Starr Shines As Spotify’s EQUAL Ambassador
Nigerian Afrobeats luminary Ayra Starr, celebrated for her chart-topping hits such as “Rush,” “Sability,” and “Rhythm & Blues,” recently stepped into the limelight as the focal point of Spotify’s esteemed EQUAL Africa and EQUAL Global initiative throughout May.
This recognition places her alongside the illustrious Tiwa Savage, solidifying her status as one of Africa’s foremost musical talents to garner both regional and global acclaim.
In the words of Monica Kemoli-Savanne, Spotify’s Senior Artist & Label Partnerships Manager for Sub-Saharan Africa, this initiative resonates with the platform’s unwavering commitment to championing women within the music industry, fostering an environment of inclusivity and empowerment. Ayra Starr’s ascendancy on the global stage serves as a poignant testament to Africa’s rich reservoir of talent, underscoring the transformative power of providing a platform for burgeoning artists.
Spotify’s EQUAL program has emerged as a catalyst for change, hosting 15 impactful activations and catalyzing over 14.8 million artist discoveries through its curated playlists in the preceding year alone. Notably, EQUAL artists received a staggering 11,800 editorial playlist additions, indicative of the program’s far-reaching influence and ability to amplify underrepresented voices.
Ayra Starr, whose latest offering “Commas” has already amassed a staggering 35 million streams on Spotify since its February release, reflects on her distinctive musical style, attributing her success to her ability to carve out a distinctive niche within the industry. Her selection as Spotify’s EQUAL artist embodies a profound sense of gratitude and responsibility, as she endeavors to represent not only women in Afrobeats but African women at large on the global stage.
In her own words, Ayra Starr articulates the significance of her ambassadorship, expressing gratitude for the opportunity to serve as a beacon of inspiration for aspiring female artists within the genre. As the EQUAL program continues to champion diversity and inclusivity, Ayra Starr stands poised to leave an indelible mark on the musical landscape, igniting a wave of empowerment and artistic innovation for generations to come.
Meghan, Duchess of Sussex, has postponed the premiere of her Netflix series, With Love, Meghan, in light of the devastating wildfires in Los Angeles.
Originally set to debut on January 15, the show will now launch on March 4. Meghan expressed gratitude to Netflix for supporting her decision to delay the release, saying, “I’m thankful to my partners at Netflix for supporting me in delaying the launch, as we focus on the needs of those impacted by the wildfires in my home state of California.”
Netflix’s Tudum platform confirmed the postponement, highlighting that the show, a tribute to the beauty of Southern California, had been rescheduled due to the ongoing crisis.
Meghan and Prince Harry have actively supported relief efforts, offering their Montecito home as a refuge for friends and loved ones displaced by the fires. On January 10, they distributed food and supplies in Pasadena, met with affected families, and thanked first responders for their work. Pasadena Mayor Victor Gordo commended the couple, saying their presence uplifted spirits and provided hope to those impacted.
The couple also released a statement urging residents to assist evacuees, check on vulnerable neighbors, and donate essential items to families who’ve lost everything. They encouraged support for organizations like the American Red Cross, which is actively aiding wildfire victims.
Through their actions and advocacy, Meghan and Harry continue to demonstrate their commitment to supporting communities in times of crisis.
Netflix is set to broaden its repertoire of African storytelling with the premiere of Mo-Faya, an enthralling new drama series from acclaimed creator and director Reuben Odanga.
The seven-episode series is scheduled to launch on December 20, 2024, offering audiences a unique blend of intense drama and telenovela flair.
Mo-Faya takes viewers on a journey through Nairobi’s vibrant streets and into the lesser-seen corners of Western Kenya, an area rarely spotlighted in mainstream media. The show centers on Zawadie, whose life unravels after learning life-altering secrets about her family. Determined to rebuild, she begins a new chapter with her boyfriend, Brian. But when she discovers his dangerous double life, Zawadie is drawn into a shadowy world filled with betrayal and crime.
The series features a mix of seasoned talent and emerging stars, including Lorna Lemi (Nairobby), Brahim Ouma (Pepeta), and newcomers Tobit Tom and Mathew Ngugi. Also joining the cast are Alex Mwakideu (Nafsi), Blessing Lung’aho (Country Queen), Basil Mungai (Kina), Tessy Njine (Selina), and the well-known media personality Cate Rira.
Reuben Odanga, known for his work on the critically acclaimed, Kalasha Award-winning telenovela Selina, brings his expertise to Mo-Faya, marking his first series for Netflix. His directorial debut feature film, Nafsi, was also featured on the platform in 2022, solidifying his reputation as a pioneer in Kenyan storytelling.
Mo-Faya promises to bring a fresh and compelling voice to the global stage of drama.
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