In a landmark moment for African music history, the Recording Academy has officially inducted Fela Kuti ’s seminal 1977 album Zombie into the GRAMMY Hall of Fame, class of 2025. This honor solidifies Fela’s legacy as one of the most influential and uncompromising voices in global music, marking a proud and powerful chapter in the…
The Tribeca Film Festival witnessed a historic moment in African music and cinema as Nigerian global superstar Wizkid premiered his highly anticipated documentary, Long Live Lagos, on June 6, 2025. Screened in the Spotlight+ section under the “Expressions of Black Freedom” theme, the film brought Afrobeats and African storytelling to the heart of New York…
In a landmark moment for global music and sport, FIFA has announced a first-of-its-kind collaboration with Global Citizen for the inaugural halftime show at a FIFA competition. The historic performance will take place on Sunday, July 13, 2025, during the FIFA Club World Cup Final at MetLife Stadium, New York–New Jersey, with Tems, J Balvin,…
The 25th Annual BET Awards, held on June 9, 2025, at the iconic Peacock Theatre in Los Angeles, delivered one of the most memorable nights in entertainment history. Titled “Culture’s Biggest Night,” the ceremony marked a quarter-century of Black excellence, legacy, and unstoppable talent. Hosted by the irrepressible Kevin Hart, the show was an electrifying…
At Music Custodian, we’re always curious about how music intersects with the world around us—especially when it comes to climate and environmental sustainability. One surprising area of interest? Plants and sound. You’ve probably heard the old idea that “talking to your plants helps them grow.” But is there any truth to that? Can plants really…
In this heartfelt edition of Custodian Conversations, we journey through melodies, memories, and moments with none other than Jeffrey Ufedo Akoh, fondly known as Jeff Akoh, the Nigerian singer, songwriter, and performing sensation whose voice feels like home. From singing in the warmth of family gatherings to echoing through church pews, Jeff’s beginnings were filled…
The African music industry has long been a powerful force for social change, with artists using their platforms to address pressing issues. In recent years, climate action has emerged as a central theme in the creative expressions of many musicians. From the revolutionary sounds of Fela Kuti to the contemporary advocacy of artists like Cill…
JOHANNESBURG, SA – Rising South African star Xowié releases her debutEP ALLO today, featuring her new single, “Bittersweet” featuring Kenya’s afro-soulpowerhouse, Bensoul. The track arrives on the momentum of her first single, Nobody’sFool, and as Bensoul rides high on his latest hit Kautamu Fulani, which isdominatingEast African charts. Bittersweet showcases the synergy between their voices while they trade verses aboutlove’s painful contradictions….
The wait is finally over! Hey Neighbour Festival is back for its much-anticipated second season, lighting up the stunning Legends Adventure Farm in Pretoria from 29 to 31 August 2025. After an unforgettable debut in 2023 that captivated over 60,000 music lovers, this vibrant celebration of music, culture, and community is ready to deliver even…
The 2025 American Music Awards (AMAs), held on May 26 at the Fontainebleau Las Vegas and hosted by Jennifer Lopez, celebrated a diverse array of musical talents. Billie Eilish emerged as the night’s biggest winner, securing seven awards, including Artist of the Year, Album of the Year for Hit Me Hard and Soft, and Song…
