Ayra Starr Leads as Burna Boy, Shallipopi, and Rema Secure 2025 BET Awards Nominations

The 2025 BET Awards nominations are officially out and African artists are making waves like never before. With major nods going to Nigerian sensations Ayra Starr, Rema, Shallipopi, and Burna Boy, this year’s nominations reflect a historic shift in global music influence and representation. Scheduled for June 9, 2025, at the Peacock Theatre in Los Angeles, the BET Awards will once again celebrate Black excellence across music, film, sports, and culture. However, this year’s edition is turning heads for the strong presence of African artists in top-tier categories once reserved almost exclusively for American performers. Ayra Starr, a rising powerhouse from Nigeria, has landed a coveted nomination for Best Female R&B/Pop Artist. She stands alongside global icons such as SZA, Summer Walker, and Victoria Monét a signal of her explosive rise on the international stage. Her nomination is not only a personal milestone but also a win for the new generation of African female voices reshaping the music industry. In the Best International Act category, Starr is joined by fellow Nigerian Rema, Ghana’s Black Sherif, South Africa’s Tyla, and eSwatini’s Uncle Waffles. They face competition from artists in Brazil, the UK, and France, highlighting how Africa’s musical footprint continues to expand across continents. African influence doesn’t stop there. In the Best New International Act category, up-and-coming stars like Nigeria’s Shallipopi, South Africa’s Dlala Thukzin, and Tanzania’s Abigail Chams show that the continent remains a hotbed of fresh, genre-bending talent. A groundbreaking moment arrives with Burna Boy, who earned a nomination for Best Male Hip Hop Artist a category historically dominated by U.S. rappers like Drake, Kendrick Lamar, and Tyler, the Creator. His inclusion signals growing acceptance and celebration of African excellence in global hip hop spaces. Launched in 2001, the BET Awards were designed by Black Entertainment Television to recognize and honor African Americans and other minority groups in music, acting, sports, and entertainment. Over the years, the awards have grown into a global platform showcasing the rich tapestry of Black creativity and innovation. As the entertainment world becomes increasingly interconnected, the BET Awards’ recognition of African talent represents more than just nominations it is a cultural acknowledgment of Africa’s transformative role in the global creative ecosystem. With performances, tributes, and surprises expected, the 2025 ceremony is poised to be one of the most memorable yet. 2025 BET Awards – Full List of Categories and Nominees R&B/Pop Artist Best International Act Best New International Act Best Male Hip Hop…

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“Comedian Zicsaloma Asks Fans to Respect His New Look After Nose Procedure”

Nigerian comedian Isaac Aloma, widely known as Zicsaloma, has once again addressed his new appearance following rhinoplasty, urging fans and friends to stop using his old photos. In a recent Instagram post on Tuesday, Zicsaloma emphasized his desire to be recognized for his updated look, stating firmly, “No more old pictures for posters. If you use them, you invited yourself, and if you are my friend and still use my old pictures for my birthday pic, you are my foe.” The comedian, who underwent nose surgery in Turkey, has been sharing updates on his transformation, assuring fans that the results are still evolving. Zicsaloma’s plea comes as he continues to embrace his post-surgery identity and distances himself from his previous image. Credit: Instagram| zicsaloma Click on the link to join the Metascholar News channel for curated, meaningful stories tailored just for YOU: https://t.me/metascholarworkshopsltd

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“Mateta Hospitalized Following Goalkeeper’s Dangerous Tackle in FA Cup Match”

Crystal Palace striker Jean-Philippe Mateta was rushed to the hospital following a dangerous tackle by Millwall goalkeeper Liam Roberts during Saturday’s FA Cup fifth-round match. The incident occurred when Roberts, rushing out of his penalty area to clear a long ball, struck Mateta in the side of the face with a high follow-through. Mateta remained on the ground for several minutes before being taken off in a neck brace and transported by ambulance. Palace chairman Steve Parish confirmed at halftime that Mateta was “conscious” but had sustained a serious gash behind his ear. Parish expressed his outrage, calling it “one of the worst challenges” he had ever seen, emphasizing the lack of “duty of care” shown by Roberts. Manager Oliver Glasner provided an update after the match, stating, “He’s conscious and in the hospital, but his ear looks terrible. It’s a very serious injury, and we hope for the best.” Despite the incident, Palace secured a 3-1 victory, advancing to the quarterfinals. Referee Michael Oliver initially did not issue a card but later gave Roberts a red after reviewing the tackle with VAR. Glasner acknowledged the mixed emotions surrounding the win, saying, “We can’t be really happy today. Losing a player, especially to a foul like this, leaves you with two different feelings.” Mateta, Palace’s top scorer with 12 Premier League goals this season, is expected to undergo further medical evaluation. The club and fans await updates on his condition as they prepare for their next FA Cup fixture.

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Amakye Dede and Team Survive Near-Fatal Accident

Legendary highlife musician Amakye Dede and his team narrowly escaped a tragic accident during their journey from Takoradi to Agona Swedru, en route to a scheduled performance. The incident, confirmed by his management in a statement released on December 31, 2024, occurred in the early hours of Sunday, December 29, between Apam and Winneba. According to the statement, the accident happened around 1:50 am while Amakye Dede and his team were traveling in a V8 Land Cruiser. The nature of the accident and its cause were not disclosed, but the vehicle sustained significant damage, underscoring the gravity of the incident. Immediately after the accident, the team was rushed to the Winneba Hospital, where they received medical attention from 2 am to 6 am. The management assured fans that Amakye Dede and his team are recovering well, though the experience took a physical toll on everyone involved. In a testament to his dedication to his craft and his fans, Amakye Dede proceeded to Kumasi later that same morning for another scheduled performance. However, the physical and emotional strain from the ordeal left him unable to perform. Despite this setback, his talented band stepped in to deliver an incredible show, ensuring fans were not left disappointed. The statement expressed deep regret over the incident, particularly the impact on fans in Kumasi who had eagerly anticipated Amakye Dede’s performance. “We deeply regret the inconvenience this unfortunate incident has caused, especially to our cherished fans in Kumasi,” the statement read. “Your understanding, patience, and unwavering support mean the world to us during this difficult time.” The management team also expressed gratitude for the outpouring of prayers and well-wishes from fans across the country. They assured everyone that Amakye Dede and his team are on the road to recovery and remain committed to returning to the stage with renewed energy. “We are taking a few days to rest and recover fully from this experience. We promise to come back stronger, energized, and ready to deliver the legendary performances you know and love. Thank you for standing by us and showing us love during this challenging period,” the statement concluded. While the accident has undoubtedly shaken Amakye Dede and his team, their resilience and the unwavering support of their fans have been a source of strength. As one of Ghana’s most celebrated highlife icons, Amakye Dede’s determination to bounce back and continue thrilling audiences serves as an inspiration to many.

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Afua Asantewaa O Aduonum’s Record-Breaking Triumph: A Heartfelt Thanksgiving to Ghana’s Unwavering Support

Hello, Ghana! I stand before you with a heart brimming with gratitude and an overwhelming sense of pride. I want to take this moment to express my deepest thanks to each and every one of you for the incredible support you showed me during my Guinness World Records attempt for the Longest Singing Marathon (Individual). This journey was not an easy one it was filled with moments that tested my physical and emotional limits. Yet, through it all, your unwavering energy, encouragement, and love became the fuel that kept me going. Your cheers, messages, prayers, and positive vibes reminded me that I wasn’t alone on this stage. I carried your hopes and your belief in me every single step of the way. You were more than spectators; you were my strength and inspiration. When I felt the weight of the challenge, it was your support that lifted me. Your faith in me pushed me beyond what I thought was possible, and together, we achieved something extraordinary. This was not just my journey it was ours. I am immensely proud to have represented Ghana on the global stage and to have shown the world the spirit of our nation. We are a people of resilience, passion, and unity, and this achievement stands as a testament to what we can accomplish when we come together. Thank you for believing in me, for sharing in this monumental journey, and for being a part of this historic moment. Together, we have written a new chapter for Ghana, one filled with determination, hope, and pride. From the depths of my heart, I thank you all. This victory is ours. Afua Asantewaa O Aduonum

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