2023 was a year that dropped hotter than pepper soup on a July afternoon. We saw Afrobeats conquer the globe, legends rise again, and some wild drama that had us glued to our various screens like fiends. Grab your agbalumo and chill, because we’re about to unpack the juiciest moments that shook Nigerians and made us proud this past year.
Afrobeats on the World Stage: Remember the time Tems, Burna Boy, and Rema rolled into the 79th NBA halftime show like the kings and queen that they are? Yeah, that wasn’t a fever dream. They painted the Utah arena with Afrobeats fire, proving that our sound ain’t just a trend, it’s a movement. And next stop? Super Bowl, baby! Watch this space.
Davido, Back Like He Never Left: After a tough year dealing with the loss of his toddler son, Davido bounced back like a boss. He dropped “Timeless,” an album so good it’s already nominated for a Grammy (big ups!), and also welcomed twins with his queen Chioma. Man’s got range, we gotta give him that.
Fashion Slayage at the MET Gala: Burna and Tems strutted the red carpet at the MET Gala, looking like royalty dipped in melanin. Only the second and third Nigerians to attend the iconic fundraising event in New York, Burna brought the swag in his Burberry suit, while Tems stunned in a black and white masterpiece styled by Dunsin Wright. Talk about raising the bar for Nigerian fashion; these two are trendsetters on a whole new level.
Afrobeats Gets Its Own Grammy Category: Finally, the Recording Academy woke up and smelled the jollof! They created a Best African Music category, giving our sound the recognition it deserves.
Now, Afrobeats artists can battle it out on the same stage as the Beyonces and Drakes of the world.
O2 Arena Domination: Asake and Rema proved that Naija talent can sell out the biggest venues. Asake packed the O2 and Barclays Center, showing the world that his “Work of Art” is more than just a catchy phrase.
And Rema cemented his status as a global superstar with his sold-out O2 show, proving that “Calm Down” isn’t just a song; it’s a vibe.
Rema Joins the Billion Club: This guyyy just keeps breaking records! His “Calm Down” remix with Selena Gomez hit a billion streams on Spotify, putting him in the same league as musical giants like Taylor Swift and Drake.
Talk about making it big!
Wizkid’s Tears and Naira Marley’s NDLEA Antics: We saw a different side of Wizkid when he shed a tear at his mum’s burial. It was a raw moment that reminded us that even superstars are human.
And Naira Marley? Well, let’s just say his brief stint as NDLEA ambassador was as confusing as a plate of eba without soup. And with the speculations and accusations about his alleged connection to the late MohBad’s unfortunate demise… Talk about a drama-filled episode!
Of Kitchen Marathons and Football Glory: Hilda Baci’s 100-hour cook-a-thon was the stuff of Guinness World Records dreams. This woman proved that Naija hustle knows no bounds, even when it comes to whipping up a mean pot of stew.
And on the football front, Victor Osimhen and Asisat Oshoala brought home the CAF Awards, proving that Nigerian players are the undisputed kings and queens of African football.
Love Stories, Nollywood Comebacks, and Oscar Dreams: Made Kuti marrying his high school sweetheart was a Nollywood fairytale come true, showing that true love can blossom even in the stark halls of Nigerian secondary schools.
Chidi Mokeme‘s return in “Shanty Town” reminded us why he’s a Nollywood legend, and Saint Obi‘s passing left a void in the industry. And “Mami Wata” making it to the Oscars? Nigerians only know how to do it big.
The Black Book—Nollywood’s John Wick: This action flick was like a shot of adrenaline to the Nollywood scene.
With its sleek visuals and high-octane chase sequences, it proved that Naija can do action just as well as Hollywood. Plus, it was expensive! Like, a million dollars expensive. Nollywood ain’t playing games anymore, people!
Mr. Ibu’s Health Struggles and More: A Year of Ups and Downs for Naija Stars
And then there was Mr. Ibu. His battle with diabetes shook the nation, reminding us that life is not a movie with predictable storylines and a concrete end. His pleas for help sparked an outpouring of support from fellow celebrities and fans, but the drama surrounding the donated funds left a bitter taste in many mouths. It was a stark reminder that even in the midst of adversity, greed can rear its ugly head.
But hey, that’s Naija for you—a land of contradictions. Through it all, we find a way to laugh, to dance, to celebrate our wins, and to mourn our losses. We’re a resilient bunch, and 2023 proved it once again.
Now go out there and make 2024 your year, fam. The world is waiting for you.
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