Des concerts électrisants au marché des vendeurs en plein essor, en passant par un hackathon dynamique, une campagne humanitaire, et un grand final sur la plage futuriste, CIMFEST 2025 a prouvé une fois de plus pourquoi il est le cœur battant de la culture des jeunes au Cameroun.

Plus de 50 000 Participants : Une Vague Culturelle à Travers le Sud-Ouest

Des fans venus de tout le Cameroun et des pays voisins se sont rassemblés pour participer au festival, qui s’est déroulé entre Buea et Limbe.
Le Stade Omnisports de Molyko a servi de principal lieu pour le festival, accueillant des milliers de personnes chaque jour pour des concerts, des ateliers, des expositions et les CIMFEST Awards alimentés par les fans.
Avec plus de 50 000 participants, cette édition a marqué la plus grande affluence de l’histoire de CIMFEST, un jalon culturel qui place le festival à l’avant-garde du divertissement en Afrique centrale.

Plus de 120 Vendeurs Génèrent Plus de 300 Millions de FCFA

Le Village des Expositions des Vendeurs CIMFEST a enregistré l’une de ses éditions les plus réussies à ce jour :

• Plus de 120 vendeurs inscrits
• Plus de 300 millions de FCFA de revenus collectifs
• Des entrepreneurs locaux ont vendu leurs stocks en quelques jours

Des produits alimentaires, boissons et mode aux produits technologiques et créations artisanales, le marché des vendeurs est devenu le moteur économique du festival.
Pour une région en pleine reconstruction après des années de perturbation socio-économique, le coup de pouce financier apporté par CIMFEST a redonné espoir, stabilité et pouvoir aux petites entreprises du Sud-Ouest.

CIMFEST Cares : Soins Médicaux Gratuits et Nettoyage Communautaire à Mile 16 Buea

L’une des initiatives les plus marquantes du festival cette année a été CIMFEST Cares, le volet humanitaire du festival.
En 2025, le programme a touché la communauté de Mile 16 Buea, offrant :

• Des consultations médicales gratuites
• Des bilans de santé et des tests de laboratoire
• L’accès à des médicaments et traitements gratuits
• Des conseils de professionnels de santé

Des centaines de résidents ont bénéficié de ces services, en particulier les familles vulnérables qui peinent à accéder aux soins médicaux en raison de la crise persistante.
En plus de l’aide médicale, les bénévoles de CIMFEST ont mené une vaste opération de nettoyage communautaire, débarrassant les déchets, améliorant l’assainissement et rétablissant une partie de Mile 16 dans un état plus sûr et plus propre.

Les dirigeants locaux ont salué l’initiative, la qualifiant de “signe d’unité, de responsabilité et de guérison pour une communauté souvent ignorée.”

Un Échange Intellectuel Puissant : Le Symposium CIMFEST 2025

Un autre point fort a été le Symposium CIMFEST 2025, dont le thème était :
“L’Industrie de la Musique Africaine à l’Ère des Innovations et de l’Intelligence Artificielle.”
Le symposium a réuni :

• Des dirigeants du secteur musical
• Des experts en technologie
• Des entrepreneurs
• Des spécialistes juridiques
• Des artistes et créateurs

Les intervenants ont analysé l’influence croissante de l’IA sur la production musicale, les droits d’auteur, le streaming, le branding des artistes et l’entrepreneuriat créatif.
Les jeunes participants ont qualifié cela de “conversation la plus importante de l’année dans l’industrie créative.”

Les discussions ont positionné CIMFEST non seulement comme un festival de divertissement, mais aussi comme une institution moteur de la connaissance de l’industrie, du renforcement des capacités et de l’innovation tournée vers l’avenir.

45 Artistes Livrent des Performances Inoubliables

Sur plusieurs scènes, 45 artistes ont montré la richesse de la scène musicale camerounaise — de l’Afropop, du rap et du R&B au folklore, gospel et Makossa.
Des étoiles montantes aux artistes vétérans, tous ont livré des moments mémorables, soutenus par des groupes en direct, des danseurs et des effets visuels immersifs qui ont maintenu l’énergie des foules de Buea à Limbe.

Plus de 70 Innovateurs Donnent Vie au Hackathon CIMFEST

Le hackathon Tech & Innovation de 48 heures du festival a réuni plus de 70 participants, dont des développeurs, des concepteurs UI/UX, des ingénieurs et des créateurs dans le domaine technologique et médiatique.
Leur mission : résoudre de véritables problèmes dans l’industrie musicale et du divertissement.
Les participants ont développé des prototypes tels que :

• Des outils d’analyse basés sur l’IA pour les artistes
• Des systèmes de gestion des droits d’auteur et de protection
• Des solutions de distribution numérique
• Des applications d’engagement des fans et de billetterie
• Des systèmes de gestion logistique des événements

Le hackathon s’est conclu par une session de pitch — et l’équipe gagnante a remporté le grand prix d’1 million de FCFA, attribué pour son innovation, sa faisabilité et son impact à long terme sur l’industrie.

Plus de 10 000 Personnes Assistents à la Soirée des CIMFEST Awards

Les CIMFEST Awards 2025 ont rempli le Stade de Molyko avec plus de 10 000 fans, tous célébrant les plus grandes figures de la musique et de l’industrie créative du Cameroun.
En tant que plus grande plateforme de récompenses alimentée par le public au Cameroun, les gagnants ont été déterminés uniquement par les votes du public, renforçant l’engagement de CIMFEST pour une reconnaissance dirigée par la communauté.

Frénésie Finale : “Une Nuit à Tokyo” Brille sur la Plage de Limbe

Plus de 2 000 fans ont assisté à la fête finale sur la plage, un événement culturel fusionné sous le thème “Une Nuit à Tokyo”.
Cosplay, danseurs de feu, DJ, décorations vibrantes et la magnifique côte de Limbe ont clôturé la semaine de manière spectaculaire.

CIMFEST 2025 : Un Festival Qui Guérit, Construit et Unifie

Au-delà du divertissement, CIMFEST 2025 a démontré son rôle grandissant dans :

• Restaurer la cohésion sociale
• Stimuler l’économie régionale
• Autonomiser la jeunesse
• Promouvoir la paix dans une région en crise
• Élever les talents locaux vers les marchés nationaux et internationaux

CIMFEST n’est plus seulement un événement annuel ; c’est un mouvement, une communauté, et un symbole de résilience dans la région du Sud-Ouest.
Comme l’a dit un participant :
“CIMFEST n’est pas juste un festival — c’est le cœur battant d’un nouveau Cameroun.”

Dans le cadre du festival annuel du Cameroun International Music Festival, les prix ont une fois de plus confirmé l’identité des CIMFEST en tant que la principale célébration populaire de la musique et de la créativité du pays.

Fidèle à la tradition des CIMFEST, les prix ont maintenu leur caractéristique distinctive : 𝐥𝐞𝐬 𝐠𝐚𝐠𝐧𝐚𝐧𝐭𝐬 𝐨𝐧𝐭 𝐞́𝐭𝐞́ 𝐜𝐡𝐨𝐢𝐬𝐢𝐬 𝐞𝐧𝐭𝐢𝐞̀𝐫𝐞𝐦𝐞𝐧𝐭 𝐩𝐚𝐫 𝐥𝐞𝐬 𝐟𝐚𝐧𝐬,, affirmant ainsi le statut de cette cérémonie en tant que plateforme de récompenses la plus démocratique et centrée sur la communauté du pays. Des talents émergents aux figures de proue de l’industrie, chaque catégorie a reflété les voix et les goûts des amateurs de musique à travers le Cameroun et sa diaspora.

La cérémonie de cette année a également mis en lumière la force et la diversité de l’écosystème artistique du pays, du gospel et du folklore au rap, Makossa, Afropop, création de contenu, production et danse.

Moments forts des Lauréats 2025

Artiste Folklore de l’Année
Relly Ebini — célébrant la richesse des sonorités traditionnelles du Cameroun.

Artiste Gospel de l’Année
KV Official — confirmant sa place parmi les voix gospel les plus écoutées de 2025.

Artiste Rap de l’Année
Lifka — une force dominante de la scène rap.

EP de l’Année
Lifka — Kamikaz, remportant ainsi son deuxième trophée de la soirée.

Créateur de Contenu de l’Année
CG — pour avoir redéfini l’espace culturel numérique camerounais.

DJ de l’Année
DJ Tresor — pour son influence dans la vie nocturne et le divertissement.

Next Rated Artist (Révélation de l’Année)
King Luca — mettant en lumière la nouvelle vague de talents camerounais.

Artiste Makossa de l’Année
KESO — pour maintenir vivant et renouvelé l’un des genres les plus emblématiques du Cameroun.

Réalisateur Vidéo de l’Année
Esimo Corporate — pour l’excellence de sa narration visuelle.

Producteur de l’Année
Egbe TMB — l’architecte sonore derrière plusieurs grands succès.

Meilleur Fan Club d’Artiste
Mimie Nation — démontrant une énergie et un soutien incomparables.

Artiste Féminine de l’Année
Mimie — l’une des victoires les plus célébrées de la soirée.

Artiste Diaspora de l’Année
Nora Brown — illustrant la portée mondiale de la musique camerounaise.

Manager d’Artiste de l’Année
Aymerick Saaeva (Beri Boys Club) — pour l’excellence dans le développement d’artistes.

Meilleur Blog Musical
Fleo 237 — récompensant une couverture médiatique constante et percutante.

Journaliste Divertissement de l’Année
Yaovi — pour son excellence dans le journalisme créatif et culturel.

Chanson de l’Année
Cysoul — Koulos — l’hymne préféré des fans en 2025.

Groupe de Danse de l’Année
Elite Dance Academy — pour leur discipline, leur créativité et leurs performances exceptionnelles.

Artiste Masculin de l’Année
Cysoul — réaffirmant sa domination musicale.

Album de l’Année
Cysoul — Oxymore, célébré pour sa profondeur, sa production et sa résonance émotionnelle.

Collaboration de l’Année
Asaba ft Kocee — 001, l’une des collaborations les plus populaires de 2025.

𝙐𝙣𝙚 𝙉𝙪𝙞𝙩 𝙦𝙪𝙞 𝙖 𝘾𝙖𝙥𝙩𝙪𝙧𝙚́ 𝙡’𝙀𝙨𝙨𝙚𝙣𝙘𝙚 𝙙𝙪 𝘾𝙄𝙈𝙁𝙀𝙎𝙏

Les CIMFEST Awards 2025 ont une fois de plus démontré pourquoi le festival est devenu l’un des événements culturels les plus attendus au Cameroun. Portés par la communauté, animés par les fans et nourris par la créativité, les prix continuent d’amplifier la voix des artistes confirmés comme celle des talents émergents.

Du folklore à la création numérique, de l’influence de la diaspora à la production nouvelle génération, les lauréats ont représenté toute la force du pouvoir culturel camerounais — ainsi que la maturité croissante de son industrie musicale.

Alors que le CIMFEST continue d’étendre son influence, les Awards demeurent un moment phare de reconnaissance, d’unité et de fierté artistique.

Félicitations à tous les lauréats 2025 pour avoir illuminé le paysage culturel camerounais et porté haut “The Vibe of the Year.”

La scène musicale camerounaise n’est plus un simple murmure sur le continent — c’est un chœur grandissant. Longtemps cantonnés aux radios locales, aux chorales d’églises et aux petites scènes de quartier, les artistes du Cameroun et l’écosystème qui les soutient ont aujourd’hui propulsé le son du pays vers les playlists régionales, les circuits de festivals et les classements de streaming internationaux.

Ce qui fut pendant des années un réservoir de talents sous-exploité est désormais une industrie en pleine émergence — portée par le streaming, les festivals, les jeunes créatifs et une nouvelle génération d’artistes à l’esprit entrepreneurial.

Talent + Technologie : La Formule de la Croissance

La distribution numérique a été un accélérateur majeur.
Les plateformes Spotify, Apple Music, YouTube et leurs équivalents régionaux ont aplani les barrières, permettant aux artistes camerounais de toucher un public bien au-delà des frontières.

Ceux qui affichent de solides performances en streaming — qu’ils évoluent dans l’Afropop, le hip-hop, le R&B ou le gospel — gagnent désormais en visibilité sur les playlists éditoriales, obtiennent des demandes de booking et décrochent des contrats de marque auparavant inaccessibles.

Une Nouvelle Garde aux Côtés des Icônes

L’essor observé n’est pas l’œuvre d’une seule génération. Plusieurs vagues coexistent :

• Salatiel — producteur, auteur-compositeur et artiste central dans la modernisation de la pop camerounaise.
• Stanley Enow — premier à imposer le rap camerounais sur la scène mainstream africaine, après son explosion en 2013.
• Daphne — figure majeure de l’Afropop dont les tubes ont largement circulé dans la région.
• Tenor — rappeur reliant les scènes francophone et anglophone, collaborant avec de grands acteurs du marché.
• Mr Leo & Locko — deux architectes du son contemporain R&B/Afropop ayant élevé les standards de la production locale.

Côté gospel — un secteur historiquement ancré dans le paysage culturel — la dynamique est tout aussi forte.
Des noms comme KV official, ADA Rejoice, Indira, Elizabeth Tekeh, H-ONE, Emma Gospel, Prosper Menko et Akubai côtoient de nouvelles figures en pleine ascension, telles que KV Official, dont le succès en streaming confirme le potentiel exportable du gospel camerounais.

Festivals, Hubs et Infrastructure Réelle

Les festivals deviennent des accélérateurs décisifs.
Le Cameroon International Music Festival (CIMFEST), par exemple, ne se limite pas à la scène : il intègre masterclasses, hackathons et expositions qui professionnalisent les parcours et favorisent les rencontres avec sponsors et acteurs technologiques.

Ces événements multi-sectoriels convertissent le buzz numérique en retombées économiques concrètes pour les commerçants, lieux d’hébergement, promoteurs et villes hôtes.

Des Signaux de Croissance Concrets

Même si les données consolidées sur le marché musical camerounais restent en construction, certains indicateurs sont nets :

• Montée des chiffres de streaming pour les singles et albums
• Hausse de la fréquentation des festivals
• Partenariats de marque plus fréquents
• Croissance mesurable des communautés d’auditeurs internationaux

Aujourd’hui, un placement sur une playlist régionale peut transformer la visibilité et les revenus d’un artiste de manière significative — un horizon impensable il y a encore dix ans.

Des Défis Toujours Présents

La croissance n’efface pas les obstacles historiques :

• Piraterie et faible protection des droits d’auteur
• Accès limité à l’investissement dans les industries créatives
• Infrastructures insuffisantes (salles, tournées, studios)
• Revenus encore trop concentrés sur le live et le sponsoring

Pour atteindre son plein potentiel, le pays doit renforcer les cadres juridiques, attirer des investisseurs et structurer l’ensemble de la chaîne de valeur musicale.

Pourquoi ce Moment est Différent

Deux évolutions changent aujourd’hui la donne :

1. L’amplification immédiate offerte par les réseaux sociaux, où un extrait viral peut créer un succès panafricain en quelques heures.
2. L’émergence d’une véritable classe professionnelle dans la musique :
   artistes qui deviennent producteurs et chefs de label, événements qui mêlent formation et performances, entrepreneurs culturels plus stratégiques.

Résultat : une industrie plus agile et mieux connectée aux marchés internationaux.

Et Maintenant ?

La prochaine phase ?
Davantage de collaborations transfrontalières, plus de visibilité sur les playlists mondiales, et un circuit de festivals connectant les artistes camerounais aux publics d’Afrique de l’Ouest et australe.

Le gospel — puissant sur le plan local — confirme son potentiel d’exportation grâce au streaming.
L’Afropop et le R&B évoluent vers des standards de production alignés sur les attentes des curateurs globaux.

Ceux qui investiront aujourd’hui — promoteurs, labels, plateformes — pourraient façonner la prochaine décennie des exportations culturelles du Cameroun.

Verdict Aftown News

La musique camerounaise n’est plus un trésor discret.
C’est un marché actif, avec une dynamique réelle.

Le talent a toujours été là ; désormais, il bénéficie d’une meilleure infrastructure, d’un esprit business affirmé et d’une distribution mondiale accessible.

Si le Cameroun parvient à renforcer la gestion des droits et à développer de nouvelles infrastructures créatives, les cinq prochaines années pourraient propulser le pays du statut de challenger régional à celui de force continentale incontestable.

After making waves with hit songs like ‘Fantasy’, ‘Chan Chan Lady’ ‘Rain or Shine’, ‘My Muse’ ‘Confirm’ ‘Caro’ and his recent ‘BMF’ and ‘Rumors’ US-based celebrated Ghanaian music star, Styla Davinci is set to redefine his musical journey with a new album ‘Know thy self’.

According to him each song on this album is meant to evoke a certain emotion. The project is inspired by self-reflection and self-acceptance, “and I hope anyone who listens feels inspired to be true to themselves, no matter what.”

In the past, Styla  Davinci focused on crafting tracks that he believed would resonate as hits. But with ‘Know Thy Self’, he has shifted his focus to creating deeply personal music. “Each track is connected to a memory, story, or emotion that inspired me to write it the way I did,” he shares. This introspective approach has allowed him to become more in tune with himself, both as an artist and as a person.

He emphasizes the importance of authenticity in his work, stating, “I made sure it was unapologetically me, fully embracing every aspect of who I am.” This commitment to self-expression is evident in the album’s sound and lyrics, which aim to inspire listeners to embrace their true selves.

The recording process for ‘Know Thy Self’ was a blend of comfort and creativity. Most of the tracks were laid down in his home, where he felt a sense of freedom and ease. “The process felt effortless and freeing—almost therapeutic,” he recalls. Yet, he faced challenges, particularly with perfectionism. “I tend to overthink when things don’t sound exactly how I imagine, but eventually, I learned to let go,” he explains. This newfound confidence in his work has resulted in what he believes is a solid body of music.

Each song on the album is crafted to evoke specific emotions, inspired by themes of self-reflection and acceptance. Styla hopes that listeners will feel a connection to the music and be encouraged to be true to themselves. “I hope anyone who listens feels inspired to be true to themselves, no matter what,” he expresses.

His versatility shines through as he blends genres, drawing influences from dancehall, Afrobeats, and hip-hop. “I’m inspired by a variety of sounds, but I’m naturally drawn to these genres,” he notes. This eclectic mix contributes to his unique sound, which he describes as distinctly his own.

With the album set to drop soon, Styla is excited about the future. He plans to host a live concert featuring all the songs and is considering launching merchandise that reflects his connection to fashion. “I want to share some of my ideas with the world,” he shares enthusiastically.

Styla is also committed to representing Ghana on a global scale. “We’ve always played a monumental role in the development of modern Afrobeats, and I want to solidify my name as someone who spoke his truth and resonated with people because of it,” he states. His ambition is to make a lasting impact on music while proudly showcasing his heritage.

Reflecting on his journey, Styla offers simple yet profound advice for young artists: “Just be yourself. That’s all you can be, and that’s more than enough.” This mantra encapsulates the essence of ‘Know Thy Self’—a celebration of individuality and authenticity in a world that often pressures conformity.

As he prepares to share this deeply personal work with the world, Styla stands poised to inspire others through his music, proving that true artistry lies in embracing one’s authentic self.

About  Styla Davinci

Styla Davinci formerlyTecknikal, was born in Kumasi on September 16, 1997. He was raised with his two brothers by his grandparents in Famesua in the Ashanti Region, after his parents; Freda Osei Bonsu and Kwame Owusu Ansah divorced.

He and his brothers were with their grandparents for 15 years, until 2013 when he traveled with his brother to live with their mother in the USA.

He attended kindergarten at the Schooling Stars Academy completed preparatory school at M. A. Bediako Adventist Preparatory school and JHS at Adventist Junior High School in Amakom, all in the Ashanti region of Ghana.

He had his second cycled education at the Kumasi Anglican Senior High School from SHS 1 to the second term of SHS 2. He continued his high school education at the Westerville South High School, Columbus, Ohio, and graduated in 2016.

He went to Columbus State College for a semester, he said: “this time I was also working on my music so eventually, I took a break from college to focus on music full time.” Tecknikal, technically started his music journey in 2016, where he dropped the ‘Styla season’ Album, the ‘guapanese’ mixtape, an EP dubbed ‘Dedication’ and some good amount of singles, “which are all available on most streaming platforms under my stage name Tecknikal. It’s safe to say I have over 30 songs out online. I have worked with numerous producers but noticeably Oge Beats and DCQ beats.”

He belongs to the group that supports 100% authentic music, especially to the class that is not limited by music genres, he can be called a multi-genre artiste because of he likes to experiment a lot and is always ready to showcase his versatility on different sounds.

The young artiste aspires to be the one to change the phase of Afrobeat worldwide. He takes inspiration from legends such as Sarkodie, R2bees, Shatta Wale, Stonebwoy, and more. “I would want to continue their good work and put a magnifying glass on the map of Ghana for the whole world to see how exceptional and influential we are to modern music, especially afrobeat. Before I decided to pick up the pen to write music I remember one of my biggest inspirations being Sarkodie. I admired how he made being a rapper look like the coolest job on earth. From the way, he shot his videos to how he dressed. It made me want to be like him. R2bees were also part of my early inspirations to pursue music. Both Mugeez and Paedae (Omar Sterling) had and still do have my respect for how they could give us a mixture of melodious songs and hard-hitting punchlines. Kanye West is also someone who inspires me a lot. From his life to his music to how he runs his business. I relate to him in the sense that he was constantly underestimated by people and somehow he always pulls through. I think he has one of the most inspiring stories in music history.”

Styla Davinci was the first artist to be signed unto Extrial Music, a sister label to R2bees which is run by Mugeez of R2bees since December 2019 and has his first song under the label dubbed ‘Fantasy’. The song is available on all streaming platforms with the official music video on Youtube.

His social media handles are Instagram: @styladavinci Twitter: @styladavinci, Facebook: @styladavinci

Rolling Stone, the award-winning global authority on music, politics and more, is proud to announce the launch of Rolling Stone Africa in partnership with MWANKOM Group, a platform dedicated to championing quality Afro content. This collaboration marks a significant milestone as Rolling Stone expands its footprint in Africa with a commitment to celebrating the exceptional voices and impacting and shaping culture right now.

“Expanding Rolling Stone’s presence in Africa has been a long-term goal of ours. We’re thrilled that our platform can be part of the rich music scene, culture and stories that define the continent,” says Gus Wenner, CEO of Rolling Stone. “We look forward to working with MWANKOM and fostering global connections through the universal language of music.” 

MWANKOM stands as a platform that embodies the extraordinary and enriching voice of Africa and its global diaspora. Our mission is to intricately explore the crossroads of culture, business, technology, and media, offering insightful analysis, engaging commentary, and exclusive interviews with industry leaders. MWANKOM is dedicated to becoming a leading provider of quality content championing Afro content and culture across the diaspora.  

Rolling Stone is renowned for its deep insights and fearless editorial stance in coverage of music, politics, entertainment, and popular culture. MWANKOM is poised to align and support the Rolling Stone mission by offering inclusive coverage of the same integrity across Africa’s culture, business, and technology landscape. 

“Rooted in a rich multicultural heritage, our journey has been defined by a strong commitment to collaborating with trailblazing entrepreneurs from Africa and its global diaspora across various sectors,” says D. Romuald Bellegarde-Smeralda, CEO & Founder of MWANKOM. “This passion propels us to forge meaningful partnerships and transform remarkable visions into reality. Our partnership with Rolling Stone is one such example, and a recognition of the influence of Afro-Culture today. With well over 1 billion people, and a global diaspora of over 500 million; including a large percentage between the ages of 18-30 years old, we understand the task as Rolling Stone Africa, a team of young and accomplished professionals all originating from the continent, to represent such diversity. We look forward to connecting those success stories from Africa with the rest of the world via the Rolling Stone Africa brand.”

MWANKOM’s diverse content portfolio reflects the multifaceted Afro experience and endeavours to elevate and celebrate Afro stories in a way that resonates with audiences worldwide. MWANKOM’s ultimate objective is positively impacting Africa by supporting educational projects and young entrepreneurs leveraging the global Afro diaspora. 

MWANKOM’s headquarters will be based in Lagos, Nigeria, where the majority of the Rolling Stone Africa team will operate from. Rolling Stone Africa is set to launch its digital edition on July 1st, featuring an exclusive cover story with a yet-to-be-revealed trailblazer from the continent.

We are thrilled to announce the appointment of Nicole Asinugo as our Editor-in-Chief. A Nigerian managing editor, screenwriter, producer, and storyteller, Nicole brings a wealth of experience and a deep understanding of the African narrative to Rolling Stone Africa.

Additionally, we are in the process of filling other senior positions to further strengthen our team. 

Afrobeats star Burna Boy is making a surprising move into filmmaking. Black Mic Mac, a content company specialising in film and TV content by African and Middle Eastern talent and producers, announced Burna Boy will executive produce their upcoming thriller, “3 Cold Dishes.”

Directed by Asurf Oluseyi and written by Tomi Adesina, “3 Cold Dishes” is a story set across Nigeria, Rep. of Benin, and Côte d’Ivoire. The film follows three teenagers, victims of sex trafficking, who reunite thirteen years later to plot their revenge. Spoken in French, Yoruba, and English, “3 Cold Dishes” is a co-production between Black Mic Mac, Ifind, Alma Prods., Asurf Films and Martian Network. Burna Boy will executive produce through Spaceship Films, the company he co-founded with his mother, Bose Ogulu.

In a press statement on Variety, Asurf describes “3 Cold Dishes” as a testament to the character’s strength and a groundbreaking pan-African film. He emphasises the dedication required, stating it “took blood and sweat to get it to this stage.”

The cast includes top Nollywood actors like Osas Ighodaro, Wale Ojo, Femi Jacobs, Ruby Akubueze, Brutus Richards, and Greg Ojefua, alongside some Ivorian and Senegalese actors. The star-studded soundtrack may include Angelique Kidjo, Burna Boy, Asa, Tems, Brymo, Johnny Drille, and Ayra Starr.

See photos and videos from the set:https://www.instagram.com/p/CrvuOO1ov1Z/embed/?cr=1&v=14&wp=540&rd=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.bellanaija.com&rp=%2F2024%2F05%2Fburna-boy-film-3-cold-dishes%2F#%7B%22ci%22%3A0%2C%22os%22%3A1858.8000000044703%2C%22ls%22%3A820.2000000029802%2C%22le%22%3A1524.7000000029802%7D

https://www.instagram.com/p/CsJVBAEo8i3/embed/?cr=1&v=14&wp=540&rd=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.bellanaija.com&rp=%2F2024%2F05%2Fburna-boy-film-3-cold-dishes%2F#%7B%22ci%22%3A1%2C%22os%22%3A1879%2C%22ls%22%3A820.2000000029802%2C%22le%22%3A1524.7000000029802%7D

https://www.instagram.com/reel/Cr6HnJHvqhu/embed/?cr=1&v=14&wp=540&rd=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.bellanaija.com&rp=%2F2024%2F05%2Fburna-boy-film-3-cold-dishes%2F#%7B%22ci%22%3A2%2C%22os%22%3A1885.3000000044703%2C%22ls%22%3A820.2000000029802%2C%22le%22%3A1524.7000000029802%7D

https://www.instagram.com/reel/Cr6hLJpvRNp/embed/?cr=1&v=14&wp=540&rd=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.bellanaija.com&rp=%2F2024%2F05%2Fburna-boy-film-3-cold-dishes%2F#%7B%22ci%22%3A3%2C%22os%22%3A7351.10000000149%2C%22ls%22%3A820.2000000029802%2C%22le%22%3A1524.7000000029802%7D

Besides being a lead actor in the film, Osas Ighodaro also holds a co-executive producer credit on “3 Cold Dishes”https://www.instagram.com/reel/C66isEXoR1Q/embed/?cr=1&v=14&wp=540&rd=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.bellanaija.com&rp=%2F2024%2F05%2Fburna-boy-film-3-cold-dishes%2F#%7B%22ci%22%3A4%2C%22os%22%3A7606.20000000298%2C%22ls%22%3A820.2000000029802%2C%22le%22%3A1524.7000000029802%7D

This collaboration with Burna Boy is just one of several projects on Black Mic Mac’s slate. South African filmmaker Mandla Dube is creating “The Devil Inside,” a detective story set against a backdrop of child abductions and Nigerian director Ishaya Bako is producing “The Three Rascals,” a Nigerian adaptation of the comedic “Les Trois Lascars.”

The lineup also includes “La Sape,” a documentary about a young fashion designer by Congolese filmmaker Jean Luc Herbulot, and “Apophenia,” a Johannesburg-based action movie by writer-director Loukman Ali.

“I’m so proud to work with so many different filmmakers all over the continent, and to continue to try to discover talent who want to entertain the world,” said Pape Boye, the founder of Black Mic Mac.

Since her rise through scenic stardom to global sensation, Tyla has been intent about showcasing the intimate beauty of her South African experiences, whether it’s through keeping her natural accent when speaking, or telling stories of her experiences. In her, the country gets a Gen Z representative that has positioned it in a new, great light, and on “Jump” she does so visually.

Nabil’s picture gets a stellar muse in the person of Tyla, whose lithe frame is centered in different scenes. From a cloth-suffused backyard, to a balcony, “Jump” offers a view into the idiosyncrasies of a party. Even down to the scenes showing the insides of a building, there’s a cinematic urgency that makes the visual appealing. And through Tyla’s natural ability to catch attention and retain it, the video’s three minute-plus runtime holds onto the viewer’s gaze with intensity.

The song itself, while also a call to dance, is primarily about self-confidence and the scenes exude that sort of personality. Sun-streaked for most parts, it evokes the bustling period of summer, where people get out and lay their hair down after months of intense work.

With Skillibeng bringing his sensual dancehall sensibilities to the song, and Gunna’s sleek flow merging beautifully with the R&B-inspired rhythm of Tyla, the sound sets the template for what the visual achieves. And considering the realistic material director Nabil is able to incorporate while staying within the sonic universe, it’s a creative alliance that succeeds on all fronts.

Source: Okay Africa | EMMANUEL ESOMNOFU

The announcement of the tour’s triumphant end was made through an Instagram Reel, capturing the energy and excitement of Taylor’s final concert. The video, captioned “What an incredible journey! Thank you to everyone who came out and made this tour unforgettable,” showcases moments from Taylor’s performances, highlighting his dynamic stage presence and the profound connection he shares with his audience.

Ebo Taylor’s musical journey spans over six decades, having started his career in the late 1950s. He has played a crucial role in shaping the highlife genre and influencing afrobeat, working alongside iconic figures such as Fela Kuti. His unique blend of traditional Ghanaian music with jazz, funk, and afrobeat rhythms has garnered him international acclaim.

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Ebo Taylor (@ebo.taylor)

Throughout the tour, Taylor visited numerous cities, captivating audiences with his timeless music and vibrant performances. His ability to engage with fans and deliver electrifying shows has solidified his status as a legendary figure in the music world. Fans and critics alike have praised Taylor for his incredible talent and the unforgettable memories created during the tour.

As Taylor wraps up this chapter, the anticipation builds for what’s next in his illustrious career. Fans are eagerly awaiting new music and future performances from this musical icon, who continues to make waves in the industry. Taylor’s successful tour is a testament to his enduring legacy and his ability to inspire audiences around the world with his art.

She admitted that Tems is exceptionally talented, as she relished working with her on her eponymous debut album.

Tyla spoke in a recent interview with Kiss Fresh, UK.

She said, “Working with Tems is amazing. She is so talented. She is literally a force. I’m so honoured to have worked with her. She has opened so many doors for us [young African female artists].

“We made such a beautiful song with such a beautiful message. It is a song for the girls and it is made by the girls.”

Tems was featured on Number 1 off Tyla’s debut eponymous album which was released earlier this month.

The saying goes, “Give a woman a house, and she’ll give you a home… she multiplies and enlarges what is given to her.” Similarly, give a woman an artist, and watch the artist become a superstar, topping charts and making waves in the music industry.

The music industry in Nigeria has experienced significant growth in recent years, with projected revenues reaching US$4.40 million in 2022 and expected to grow to US$8.03 million by 2027, representing an annual growth rate (CAGR 2022-2027) of 12.43%. While it is common knowledge that Nigerian artists generate considerable economic revenue, what you may not know is the role played by women behind the scenes.

These women are instrumental in building and managing the artists’ careers, shaping their trajectories, and ensuring their continued success on the charts. Beyond their immediate impact, these women are also shaping the future of the music industry and contributing significantly to the nation’s economy.

In the spirit of International Women’s Month, with the theme “Accelerate Progress”, we bring you five women who are solidly standing beside your fave music stars – not only behind, them. In a male-dominated industry, we spotlight these women and celebrate their successes.

Janet Nwose – Asa

Asa and Janet Nwose have been inseparable since meeting in 2004. They not only do business and travel together, they also sing together. Do you know that apart from Janet being Asa’s manager, she is also her backup singer? Now you know that. Interestingly, it was Janet who introduced Asa to Cobhams Asuquo, who became the producer of her first studio album “Asa” (Asha).

Their partnership and friendship has endured since Asa’s emergence onto the music scene in the early 2000s.

https://www.instagram.com/p/Cw0ACixtGaB/embed/captioned/?cr=1&v=14&wp=540&rd=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.bellanaija.com&rp=%2F2024%2F03%2F5-women-who-manage-some-of-your-fave-music-stars%2F#%7B%22ci%22%3A0%2C%22os%22%3A14702%2C%22ls%22%3A4718.60000000149%2C%22le%22%3A7999.10000000149%7D

Mariam Abass – Joeboy

Mariam stepped into the role of Joeboy’s manager in 2020 when she returned to Nigeria from the UK after working as a pipeline engineer. “I’m Mariam Aduke Abass and I’m Joeboy’s manager. What people might not know about me is that I’m a civil engineer,” says Mariam.

From 2017 to 2018 she worked as Mr Eazi’s stylist, leaving her mark on international magazines and music videos. Her work can be seen in projects like Anne Marie, Major Lazer featuring Mr Eazi in “Let Me Live” and Davido featuring Popcaan in “Risky” where she styled Davido himself.

Beyond her roles in the music industry, Mariam wears many hats including owning a marketing agency called Mal Agency and running a sustainable luxury fashion pre-loved brand named Luxe Reloaded.https://www.instagram.com/p/CbVo_Ldrh4V/embed/captioned/?cr=1&v=14&wp=540&rd=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.bellanaija.com&rp=%2F2024%2F03%2F5-women-who-manage-some-of-your-fave-music-stars%2F#%7B%22ci%22%3A1%2C%22os%22%3A14717.5%2C%22ls%22%3A4718.60000000149%2C%22le%22%3A7999.10000000149%7D

Kema Oyih – Made Kuti

Kema has an impressive roster of high-profile artists she’s worked with, including Mi Abaga, Femi Kuti, and Seun Kuti. Currently, she manages Afrobeat singer, songwriter, and instrumentalist Made Kuti. With over seven years of experience in the entertainment industry, Kema is more than just a talent manager; she’s also a music and event consultant.

Previously, she served as the general manager and talent head for Bean Creative, the agency arm of Chocolate City Group. Alongside managing Made Kuti, Kema runs her talent manage

ent agency, which is dedicated to nurturing both aspiring artists and managers.

https://www.instagram.com/p/C22EjrsNz1L/embed/captioned/?cr=1&v=14&wp=540&rd=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.bellanaija.com&rp=%2F2024%2F03%2F5-women-who-manage-some-of-your-fave-music-stars%2F#%7B%22ci%22%3A2%2C%22os%22%3A14727.60000000149%2C%22ls%22%3A4718.60000000149%2C%22le%22%3A7999.10000000149%7D

Vanessa Amadi Ogbonna  – Tiwa Savage

Vanessa was Tiwa Savage’s public relations manager for five years, and it’s no surprise that she now manages Tiwa herself. With a career spanning twenty-five years in the industry, Vanessa is a talent manager and public relations specialist who has contributed to the success of many artists and brands including Davido, Whitney Houston, The MOBO Awards, Estelle, Ashluxe and Genevieve Nnaji to name a few.

She’s also one of the executive producers of Tiwa’s first feature film, “Water and Garri.”https://www.instagram.com/p/Csi0DPVNe9u/embed/captioned/?cr=1&v=14&wp=540&rd=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.bellanaija.com&rp=%2F2024%2F03%2F5-women-who-manage-some-of-your-fave-music-stars%2F#%7B%22ci%22%3A3%2C%22os%22%3A24723.89999999851%2C%22ls%22%3A4718.60000000149%2C%22le%22%3A7999.10000000149%7D

Elizabeth Sobowale – Adekunle Gold

Meet AG Baby’s manager, Elizabeth Sobowale, an artist manager and the program director for Music Business Academy for Africa. At the age of 21, just as she was about to leave the university, Elizabeth started working in the talent management field, where she has excelled for over nine years now.

She’s been managing Adekunle Gold for two years now, having been closely associated with him and his team even before taking on the role of his manager.

Elizabeth was also DJ Cuppy’s former manager and the former senior project manager of the Cuppy Foundation.https://www.instagram.com/p/ChwxSO-r6Gp/embed/captioned/