Ghanaian singer Gyakie, affectionately known as the Song Bird, has released the stunning visuals for her soulful track “Fire on the Mountain” from her debut album After Midnight. The video captures the intimate emotion and artistry that define Gyakie’s signature R&B and afro-fusion sound. Known for her heartfelt vocals and poetic depth, Gyakie once again proves why she remains one of Ghana’s most captivating musical talents.

Grammy and Oscar-winning artists Tiara Thomas and H.E.R. reunite for their empowering new single “Move,” released via ONErpm. Co-written by the duo and produced by Non Native and Luis Bordeaux, the smooth, downtempo track delivers a message of confidence and self-worth, urging listeners to set boundaries and walk away from negativity. The song’s new animated video, created by Naarm/Melbourne-based illustrator Peo Michie, visually amplifies the theme with vibrant, soulful imagery that captures the essence of empowerment and renewal.

Ugandan star Vinka returns with her vibrant new single “Lalala,” a dancehall-infused Afro-pop anthem that celebrates joy, freedom, and living in the moment. Blending traditional African rhythms with modern pop production, the track bursts with energy and irresistible melodies. Vinka’s bold vocals and charismatic delivery make “Lalala” an instant party favorite, encouraging listeners to let loose and embrace life’s carefree moments. It’s a feel-good reminder of why Vinka remains one of Africa’s most dynamic performers.

Rising Kansas City-bred R&B singer LeVelle has released his smooth and sultry new single “Tongue Tied,” showcasing his rich vocals and heartfelt songwriting. Following hits like “Fell In Love” and “Right Here,” the track further cements his status as a rising star. Co-written with top talents Wirlie Morrison, Jayshawn Champion, and Traci Hale-Martin, “Tongue Tied” blends love, desire, and soulful sophistication, earning praise from fans and critics alike.

Mobb Deep delivers a powerful farewell with their final album, Infinite, released October 10 via Mass Appeal Records. The project blends unreleased vocals from the late Prodigy with new verses and production from Havoc, alongside contributions from The Alchemist. Featuring guests like Nas, Clipse, Ghostface Killah, and Jorja Smith, the 15-track LP bridges generations of hip-hop. Infinite honors Mobb Deep’s gritty legacy (esp. on tracks like “The M. The O. The B. The B.”) while showcasing evolution, balancing menace (“check out the banging "Mr. Magik”) and introspection in a sound that feels both timeless and forward-looking. 

International R&B icon Akon is facing a turbulent chapter in his personal life after his wife, Tomeka Thiam, filed for divorce just days before their 29th wedding anniversary. The filing cites irreconcilable differences and requests joint legal custody of their daughter, Journey, with Tomeka seeking primary physical custody and spousal support. The news has stunned fans who viewed the pair as one of the music industry’s most enduring couples. Shortly after the announcement, rumors surfaced claiming Tomeka Thiam was demanding €100 million in the divorce settlement and that Akon’s personal bank account held only $10,000. However, these figures remain unverified, as no official court documents or credible sources have confirmed them. Both Akon and his representatives have declined to comment publicly on the reports surrounding his finances or the alleged settlement amount. Despite the ongoing legal turmoil, Akon’s legacy as an artist, entrepreneur, and humanitarian remains prominent. Rising to fame in the early 2000s with hits like “Smack That” and “Locked Up,” the Senegalese-American star later expanded his vision beyond music. Through his Akon Lighting Africa initiative and the ambitious $6 billion Akon City project in Senegal, he has aimed to bring development and innovation to his homeland.

The Queen of Hip-Hop Soul, Mary J. Blige , is taking her legendary career to the big screen with the release of her first-ever concert film, Mary J. Blige: For My Fans. Set to premiere in theaters on November 5th, 7th, and 8th , the feature will give audiences an up-close experience of her record-breaking tour, offering a cinematic celebration of her decades-spanning artistry and deep connection with fans. “Being able to share this moment globally with my fans, who can experience this together in a movie theater, is more special than I can put into words,” said the 54-year-old icon in a statement to the Associated Press . The film captures highlights from each era of Blige’s career, combining electrifying performances with behind-the-scenes footage and surprise guest appearances. Portions were filmed during her sold-out Madison Square Garden concert this past April, a night Blige described as “a dream come true” and a heartfelt homecoming to her New York roots. Distributed by Trafalgar Releasing , For My Fans aims to bring Blige’s powerful live presence to audiences worldwide. “Mary J. Blige has always represented the heart and soul of New York,” said Kymberli Frueh , Trafalgar’s executive vice president of programming and content acquisitions. “We’re proud to share this historic hometown concert with audiences around the world through the magic of cinema.” For fans, the film promises to be both a tribute and an invitation to sing, dance, and celebrate the enduring spirit of one of R&B’s most influential voices.

When the NFL announced that Bad Bunny would headline the Super Bowl LX halftime show on February 8, 2026, it should have been a celebratory moment: a recognition of one of the most globally successful and culturally significant artists of the modern era. Instead, the reaction from conservative corners of America has been nothing short of absurd. From politicians to pundits to former football players, the outrage over a Puerto Rican superstar performing at America’s biggest sporting event reveals more about their own insecurities and biases than it does about Bad Bunny or his music. The outrage machine kicked into overdrive almost immediately. Just this Tuesday, Speaker of the House Mike Johnson called the NFL’s decision “terrible” and suggested 82-year-old Lee Greenwood should perform instead, as though nostalgia were the only valid form of patriotism. Recently, Fox Nation host Tomi Lahren embarrassed herself by claiming Bad Bunny “is not an American artist,” only to be reminded (on her own show) that Puerto Rico is part of the United States. Even Donald Trump jumped into the fray, claiming he’d “never heard of him,” a statement that says more about Trump’s cultural ignorance than about Bad Bunny’s reach. Hall of Famer Eric Dickerson also chimed in on the brouhaha, telling Bunny to “keep his ass away” from the Super Bowl if he doesn’t “like America.” Nonetheless it’s a pattern we’ve seen before: manufactured outrage cloaked in nationalism and cultural insecurity.

Nigerian singer, songwriter, and producer Nonso Amadi has released his new single “Dive In,” serving as a prelude to his upcoming To Cry A Flood EP, set to arrive next month. The airy, catchy track finds Amadi reflecting on a past romantic encounter, blending emotional depth with his signature smooth sound. “Dive In” has already made an impressive debut at No. 42 on the Billboard U.S. Afrobeats Songs Chart .