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Ayra Starr Paints New York Purple in Strapless Mini Dress for ‘Starr Girl’ Listening Party

by Women Times on

By Prosper Mene 

The Mavin and Republic Records star hosted industry insiders and fans for an intimate first listen to her third studio album ahead of its global release on August 14, 2026.

Ayra arrived in full Y2K mode. She wore a strapless periwinkle blue mini dress with horizontal ruched mesh panels and a bold vertical strip of 3D fabric floral appliqués running down the center bodice.

To balance the bare neckline, she styled the look with a thick multi-row rhinestone choker. She added slim black rectangular sunglasses, cobalt blue open-toe mule heels, a delicate gold chain anklet, and a glittery dark blue hard-shell clutch with “Girl” spelled out in silver lettering.

The singer styled her Y2K-inspired look with a custom Starr Girl clutch and retro updo.

Her beauty was just as statement-making. Ayra wore a retro updo with side-swept fringe, bronze-toned makeup, and sharply defined lip liner.

The listening party offered the first preview of the album before its August 14 release.

The Starr Girl listening session marks a major moment in Ayra’s artistic evolution. The project will feature collaborations with Zayn Malik, Theodora, KWN, Danny Ocean, Leon Thomas, and FOLA.

It also follows the rollout of pre-release singles including *“Tornado,” “Where Do We Go,” “Who’s That Girl” featuring Rema, “Gimme Dat” featuring Wizkid, and “Hot Body.”

With New York painted periwinkle, all eyes are now on August 14 for the official drop.

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Entertainment

‘Starr Girl Is Coming’: Ayra Starr Kicks Off Countdown to August 14 Album Release

by Women Times on

By Prosper Mene 

Ayra Starr has officially started the countdown to her highly anticipated third studio album, Starr Girl.

The Mavin and Republic Records star announced on August 3, 2026, that the project will arrive in 11 days, with a release date set for August 14, 2026. She shared the news with a sleek video teaser on social media, captioning it: “starrgirl is comingggg. 11 days! are you ready?”

The announcement comes as Ayra continues to recover from a recent surgery. In an Instagram Story update days earlier, the singer revealed she had undergone a complicated procedure and would be taking time away from public events to rest. Despite stepping back, she urged her fans — the Mobstarrs — to keep the momentum going ahead of the album drop.

The teaser clip gives the first glimpse of the Starr Girl era. Dressed in a vibrant blue mini dress, Ayra is seen walking through a city street, climbing a fire escape, and sitting atop a building as the skyline lights up behind her. Glowing stars appear in the night sky to spell out the album title. While the background track remains unreleased, the snippet offers fans a taste of her evolving sound.

Starr Girl follows the release of lead single “Tornado” featuring Fola, which dropped in June. With the release date now locked in, anticipation is building globally as Ayra Starr prepares for her official return to music.

 

 

 

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Entertainment

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

by Women Times on

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.

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Entertainment

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

by Women Times on

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.

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Entertainment

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

by Women Times on

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.

 

 

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EntertainmentUncategorized

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

by Women Times on

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.

 

 

 

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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

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.”

 

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Entertainment

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

by Women Times on

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.

 

 

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Entertainment

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

by Women Times on

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.

 

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Entertainment

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

by Women Times on

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.

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