Entertainment

Tems heads star-studded soundtrack for “Children of Blood and Bone” alongside Burna Boy and Ayra Star

by Women Times on July 29, 2026

By Prosper Mene

Grammy-winning Nigerian star Tems has been named Executive Music Producer and Curator for the official soundtrack of Paramount Pictures’ highly anticipated fantasy film, Children of Blood and Bone.

The announcement was made by director Gina Prince-Bythewood at an exclusive trailer screening hosted by Lena Waithe at the Brooklyn Academy of Music in New York. With the appointment, Tems becomes the first woman to executive produce a soundtrack for a film of this magnitude.

According to Prince-Bythewood, Tems and Burna Boy were key inspirations during the screenwriting process. “I listened to Tems and Burna Boy on repeat while writing,” she said, noting that their sound was essential to shaping the film’s musical identity.

Tems’ 2023 hit “Me & U” is already featured in the movie’s official teaser. Her manager, Muyiwa Awoniyi, confirmed that the singer also recorded three brand-new original tracks specifically for the project. Burna Boy will serve as Executive Music Consultant, while other Nigerian heavyweights on the album include Ayra Starr, Fireboy DML, and BNXN

Described by Prince-Bythewood as an “epic, no-skips” body of work, the soundtrack mirrors the core themes of Tomi Adeyemi’s bestselling novel — magic, destiny, resistance, and hope. It blends African rhythms with orchestral elements to reflect the world of Orïsha.

In another milestone, Ayra Starr will also make her Hollywood acting debut in the film.

Set for release in cinemas on January 15, 2027, Children of Blood and Bone is being hailed as a major cultural link between modern African music and global blockbuster cinema. With Tems leading the sound, the project is already being called one of the most important African-led movie soundtracks to date.

Entertainment

CHILDREN OF BLOOD AND BONE’ PUTS WOMEN AT THE CENTER, ON SCREEN AND OFF

by Women Times on July 28, 2026

By Prosper Mene

The highly anticipated film adaptation of Tomi Adeyemi’s bestselling novel Children of Blood and Bone is being praised not just for its epic fantasy, but for how it celebrates women both in its storytelling and in its casting.

The movie, set in the fictional land of Orïsha, follows young diviner Zélie as she fights to restore magic and overthrow a tyrannical monarchy. At its core, the story is driven by powerful women who lead the resistance, make the hard choices, and carry the emotional weight of a nation.

Industry observers note that the film flips the typical fantasy script by placing women at the center of power. From warriors and queens to mothers and rebels, female characters are not side plots. They are the ones driving the revolution.

That commitment extends behind the camera too. The casting has been hailed for putting African and Black women in leading roles rarely seen in big-budget fantasy films. The ensemble features a new generation of actresses alongside established stars, giving global visibility to talent from across the continent and diaspora.

“It’s not just about having women in the story,” a film critic noted. “It’s about women leading the story, and women leading the production that brings it to life.”

Children of Blood and Bone is already being described as a landmark for representation in Hollywood fantasy. With its mix of African mythology, culture, and female-led heroism, the film is positioning itself as both entertainment and a statement.

Fans and cultural commentators say the movie’s message is clear: when women are given the magic, the sword, and the crown, the whole world changes.

Entertainment

FAVE TURNS UP THE HEAT IN NEW “DANCE” VIDEO – HER PLATINUM LOOK ALONE WILL GET YOU MOVING

by Women Times on July 17, 2026

By Prosper Mene

Lagos, Nigeria – April 2026

Nigerian songbird Fave is back on our screens, and she came with vibes.

The singer has released the official music video for her hit single *”Dance”*, and it’s already getting fans on their feet before the first chorus even drops.

The video leans into bold, clean aesthetics that match the song’s smooth Afropop rhythm. Fave debuts a striking platinum blonde hairstyle, paired with soft pink eyeshadow, sharp winged liner, and rhinestones arched above her brows.

She keeps it glam with silver nose rings, gem-studded nails, and a textured blue top accessorized with a chunky metallic silver bracelet. Subtle details like leaf-patterned designs on her hands and wrists add extra flair to every scene.

From the very first shot, Fave is in motion — swaying, grooving, and owning the beat in a way that makes you want to jump up and copy her dance steps.

“Dance” is one of the standout tracks from Fave’s third EP, “RnBling”. The 6-track project marks a new chapter for the singer as it features her first-ever guest appearances on an EP, with vocals from Chike and Yemi Alade.

Production duties on the entire project were handled by Dunnie, Deeyasso, and Damie, giving “RnBling” a cohesive blend of Afropop and R&B that has become Fave’s signature sound.

If you’ve already had “Dance” on repeat, the visuals will give you even more reasons to add it to your playlist.

Entertainment Uncategorized

Funke Akindele Reveals Major Sacrifices Behind ₦2.7 Billion Box Office Success for ‘Behind The Scenes’

by Women Times on July 13, 2026

By Prosper Mene

Nollywood powerhouse Funke Akindele has opened up about the intense personal toll behind her latest cinematic triumph, disclosing that her film Behind The Scenes has grossed over ₦2.7 billion at the box office.

In a candid interview with Bella Naija that has since gone viral on social media, the actress, producer, and director attributed the film’s record-breaking performance to unrelenting dedication and significant lifestyle sacrifices.

“So for me to get all these achievements, for the last movie to cross ₦2.7 billion, it was a lot of sleepless nights for me. A lot of sacrifice, giving my all. I forget to eat sometimes,” Akindele said. She added that she “abandoned” herself for the project, forgoing routine self-care such as hair styling except for red carpet events or major commitments.“I don’t even make my hair, except I’m going on the red carpet or for something very important. I don’t attend parties. I don’t go to greet people at home. I put everything into work — research, writing, work. I’m neck deep into work,” she explained.

Akindele noted that she has only recently begun prioritizing self-care again, resuming skincare routines and feeling “fresh” after the demanding production period.

The revelations have sparked widespread admiration online for her discipline and work ethic, with many fans and industry observers praising her as a trailblazer in Nigeria’s film sector.

Akindele, known for her commercially successful comedies and strong female-led stories, has consistently delivered high-grossing films that resonate with audiences across the country and the diaspora.

Her latest achievement further cements her status as one of Nollywood’s most bankable talents, demonstrating that substantial financial returns often come from deep personal investment and focus.

Industry watchers say such transparency also highlights the pressures faced by top filmmakers balancing creative vision with business demands.

As Behind The Scenes continues its run, Akindele’s story serves as both inspiration and a reminder of the hidden costs of success in one of Africa’s most dynamic creative industries.

Entertainment

“I Want to Build the Next Generation of Female Filmmakers” — Funke Akindele Opens Up On Nollywood, Box Office Records & Legacy

by Women Times on July 9, 2026

By Prosper Mene

Lagos, Nigeria

Funke Akindele is not slowing down. The actress, producer and director sat down for a new interview where she spoke candidly about breaking box office records, the state of Nollywood, and her biggest goal yet: mentoring the next generation of women behind the camera.

Known as “Jenifa” to millions of fans, Akindele has spent the last few years rewriting what success looks like in Nigerian cinema. Her films A Tribe Called Judah and Everybody Loves Jenifa both crossed the ₦1 billion mark at the box office, making her the highest-grossing Nollywood director to date.

But for Akindele, the numbers are only part of the story.

“I want to build the next generation of female filmmakers,” she said. “For a long time, the industry was dominated by men in key roles — directing, producing, funding. Now we have women telling our stories, and we need to pull more women up with us.”

The 48-year-old revealed she has started putting structures in place through her production company to train young women in directing, scriptwriting, and production management. According to her, many talented women get stuck in entry-level roles because they lack access and mentorship.

“We have the talent. What we need is opportunity,” she explained. “If I can open doors for 10 girls this year, and they open doors for 10 more, then we’re changing the industry.”

Akindele also addressed the pressure that comes with breaking records. After A Tribe Called Judah became the first Nollywood film to gross over ₦1 billion, expectations have been high.

“The pressure is real, but I don’t make films for records,” she said. “I make films for my people. For the market woman, for the student, for families who want to laugh and cry together. If it breaks records, that’s a bonus.”

On Nollywood’s global rise, she said streaming platforms and cinema culture have given Nigerian stories a bigger stage. But she warned that quality and originality must remain the focus.

“We can’t just chase trends. Our stories are powerful because they are ours. Family, community, hustle, faith — that’s what connects with people here and abroad.”

With two back-to-back billion-naira films and a TV franchise that has run for over 15 years, Funke Akindele has cemented her place in Nollywood history. Yet she says she’s just getting started.

“My legacy won’t just be the films I made,” she added. “It will be the women I helped become directors, producers, and storytellers too.”

Entertainment

Ayra Starr Turns Heads With Sculptural Corset and Bold Gold Jewellery in New Look

by Women Times on July 7, 2026

By Prosper Mene

Lagos, Nigeria — April 2026

Nigerian pop star Ayra Starr is once again setting style trends, this time with a daring new look that blends high fashion with Afro-futurist glam.

The singer debuted the ensemble on her social media over the weekend, pairing a sculptural corset with statement gold jewellery for a look that has already gone viral with fans and fashion critics alike.

The corset featured dramatic, architectural lines and structured boning that cinched at the waist, creating a bold silhouette. Ayra styled it with oversized gold hoops, layered gold chains, and chunky gold cuffs that added a regal, contemporary edge to the outfit.

Stylists say the look pulls from two major 2026 trends: sculptural tailoring and maximalist gold accessories. The combination highlights Ayra’s signature ability to mix softness with strength, a theme that also runs through her music.

“This is Ayra in full artiste mode,” one fashion commentator posted. “The corset is couture, but the gold keeps it rooted in African luxury.”

The 22-year-old Mavin Records star has become known for pushing style boundaries, from Y2K-inspired crop tops to avant-garde stage pieces. Her latest look is expected to influence red carpet and concert fashion in the coming months.

Fans flooded the comments with praise, calling the outfit “iconic,” “art,” and “peak Ayra Starr energy.”

With a new tour and music expected later this year, Ayra Starr continues to prove that her influence goes beyond sound, she’s shaping culture, one look at a time.

Entertainment

Mercy Chinwo and Nathaniel Bassey Team Up for Worship Anthem “Promise Keeper”

by Women Times on July 4, 2026

By Prosper Mene

Lagos, Nigeria | April 4, 2026

Gospel powerhouses Mercy Chinwo and Nathaniel Bassey have joined forces for a new song titled “Promise Keeper”, a stirring worship anthem celebrating God’s faithfulness.

The collaboration, released across all major streaming platforms on Friday, brings together two of Nigeria’s most celebrated gospel voices for the first time on a single.

“Promise Keeper” is built around testimonies of God’s unwavering word, with heartfelt lyrics and soaring vocals that highlight both artists’ signature worship style. The song opens with a soft, reflective melody before building into a powerful chorus declaring: “You are the God who keeps His promise.”

Speaking about the collaboration, Mercy Chinwo described the song as “a reminder that God never fails.”

“In seasons when it looks like nothing is happening, God is still working. This song is about trusting Him to do exactly what He said He will do,” she said.

Nathaniel Bassey also noted that the song was birthed out of personal encounters with God’s faithfulness.

“We wanted to create something that people can hold on to in prayer. ‘Promise Keeper’ is for everyone waiting on God,” he added.

The single was produced with a blend of contemporary gospel and African worship sounds, and is already gaining traction on gospel playlists and radio stations across Nigeria, the US, UK, and other parts of Africa.

Fans have flooded social media with testimonies and praise clips since the release, with #PromiseKeeper trending among gospel music lovers on X and Instagram.

Mercy Chinwo and Nathaniel Bassey are both known for global worship hits, Chinwo for songs like “Excess Love” and “Igwe”, and Bassey for “Hallelujah Challenge” and “Imela”. “Promise Keeper” marks their first official collaboration.

“Promise Keeper” is now available on Spotify, Apple Music, Boomplay, Audiomack, and YouTube.

Entertainment

Yemi Alade & Bien Deliver a Cross-Continental Love Anthem with “Don’t Be Shy”

by Women Times on July 1, 2026

By Prosper Mene

Lagos, Nigeria – July 2026

Afrobeats queen Yemi Alade and Kenyan hitmaker “Bien” have teamed up for “Don’t Be Shy”, a smooth, cross-continental love anthem that is already heating up playlists across Africa and beyond.

The track blends Alade’s powerful vocals and signature Afro-pop energy with Bien’s laid-back Afro-soul delivery, creating a conversation between two lovers urging each other to let their guard down. Produced with warm guitar licks, soft percussion, and a breezy mid-tempo groove, “Don’t Be Shy” leans into romance without losing dancefloor appeal.

Speaking on the collaboration, Yemi Alade described it as “a meeting of East and West Africa in one song.”

“Bien has such a unique sound, and I wanted us to make something that feels intimate, confident, and very grown,” Alade said. “‘Don’t Be Shy’ is for everyone who has ever liked someone but needed that little push to say it.”

Bien echoed the sentiment, calling the record “easy, flirty, and honest.” “Yemi is a legend. We just vibed in the studio and let the song tell its own story. It’s about chemistry, and not overthinking it,” he added.

The single marks one of the biggest East-West African collaborations of 2026 so far, following a year where cross-border features have dominated streaming charts. Early reactions on TikTok and X show fans already using the chorus for couple content, dance challenges, and wedding mood boards.

“Don’t Be Shy” is now streaming on all major platforms, with an official music video expected to drop later this month.

News Entertainment

Tems Lights Up Obama Presidential Center Grand Opening with Crimson Gown and “Me & U” Performance

by Women Times on June 22, 2026

By Prosper Mene

Grammy-winning artist Tems brought global attention to the Obama Presidential Center Grand Opening this weekend, delivering a show-stopping performance of her hit single “Me & U” in a breathtaking crimson gown.

The event, which marked the official public opening of the cultural and civic space on Chicago’s South Side, drew world leaders, activists, artists, and community members. Tems took the stage as one of the featured performers, celebrating art, leadership, and the next generation of changemakers, core themes of the Center.

Dressed in a floor-length, sculpted crimson gown with dramatic detailing, Tems matched the magnitude of the moment. Her stripped-back, soulful rendition of “Me & U” drew audible reactions from the crowd, blending Afrobeats intimacy with the gravitas of the historic occasion. Clips of the performance quickly spread online, with fans praising both her vocal delivery and the symbolic power of her look.

The Obama Presidential Center is designed as more than a library — it’s a space for civic engagement and cultural expression. Tems’ appearance underscored the role of African artists in shaping global conversations around leadership and identity.

For Tems, the performance adds to a year of milestone moments that continue to position her as one of Nigeria’s most influential cultural exports. From the Grammys to global stages, she has consistently used fashion and music to tell stories that resonate far beyond the music itself.

Entertainment

Somi Begins a New Chapter with ‘What Does It Take to Bloom?’ and “We’re All Falling”

by Women Times on June 15, 2026

By Prosper Mene

There’s something quietly brave about asking questions you don’t have answers to yet. That’s exactly where Somi finds herself with her latest release, _What Does It Take to Bloom?_, and the lead single “We’re All Falling.”

The award-winning singer, songwriter, and storyteller has never been one to chase trends. Instead, she builds worlds with her voice — intimate, layered, and honest. With this new chapter, Somi steps even further into that space. What Does It Take to Bloom? isn’t just an album title. It’s the question she’s been sitting with, and now she’s inviting all of us to sit with it too.

The project moves at its own pace. It’s reflective, sometimes raw, and always rooted in the kind of songwriting that feels like a late-night conversation with someone who gets it. At the center is “We’re All Falling,” a track that strips things back to the basics: voice, feeling, and truth. Over minimal instrumentation, Somi sings about the shared experience of coming undone. Not in a dramatic way, but in the quiet, human way we all do when life gets heavy.

“There’s this idea that falling means failing,” she shared about the single. “But what if falling is just part of growing? ‘We’re All Falling’ is me saying — you’re not alone in this. I’m here too.”

That sense of togetherness runs through What Does It Take to Bloom? From start to finish, the project wrestles with change, resilience, and what it means to rebuild when you’ve been broken down. It’s music for the in-between moments — when you’re not fully healed yet, but you’re choosing to keep going.

Early reactions from fans and critics show the message is landing. People are calling the work “deeply personal yet universally relatable,” and praising Somi for her ability to turn vulnerability into strength. It’s the kind of art that doesn’t just entertain — it stays with you.

With this release, Somi isn’t just dropping new music. She’s opening a door. What Does It Take to Bloom? is now streaming on all major platforms, and “We’re All Falling” is already becoming the anthem for anyone learning how to rise, slowly, from the ground.