By Abigail David

Nigerian music star Davido has announced the release of a new single, I Know Who I Be, set to drop on June 26.

The forthcoming track features Jazzwrld and GL_Ceejay and marks Davido’s return with new solo music following a period of limited releases.

The award-winning singer revealed the news on his X account on Monday, telling fans that “the journey to the throne begins” as he unveiled plans for the project. He also confirmed that I Know Who I Be would be released on June 26, alongside promotional images for the song.

The announcement has sparked excitement among fans, especially after Davido disclosed in May that he intended to take a temporary break from making music.

Davido rose to prominence in 2012 with the hit single Dami Duro and later established DMW Records, a label that has nurtured several successful artistes.

Before this announcement, his last solo release was Be There Still, released in March 2025. He most recently appeared as a featured artiste on Nakupenda by TxC.

The new single follows Davido’s performance at the opening concert of the 2026 FIFA World Cup countdown series in Los Angeles, further strengthening his international profile.

With acclaimed projects such as Omo Baba Olowo, A Good Time, A Better Time, and Timeless, Davido remains one of the leading figures in the global Afrobeats scene. Fans will now be looking forward to what he delivers with I Know Who I Be.

By Abigail David

Nollywood actor Uzor Arukwe has explained why he initially remained silent following the death of fellow actor Alexx Ekubo, saying the loss left him struggling to find the right words.

In an emotional tribute shared on social media, Arukwe said many people had questioned his absence from the public outpouring of grief, but explained that his silence was part of his personal mourning process.

According to the actor, the news of Ekubo’s death was difficult to accept, describing it as the kind of loss that leaves one hoping for a different outcome.

Arukwe recalled meeting the late actor on the set of a film produced by Dabby Chimere and remembered him as a warm, humble and genuinely kind person who treated everyone with respect.

He said hearing tributes from people who knew Ekubo more closely further highlighted the positive impact the late actor had on those around him.

Reflecting on his colleague’s life, Arukwe noted that beyond fame, talent and career achievements, people are ultimately remembered for their kindness, character and the way they treat others.

The actor also stressed that grief is deeply personal and does not always have to be expressed publicly.

“I’ve been quiet, and I know some people wondered why I didn’t post or say anything. The truth is, I didn’t know what to say,” he wrote, adding that some farewells are carried through prayers, cherished memories and quiet reflection rather than social media tributes.

His message has resonated with fans and colleagues, serving as a reminder that people process loss in different ways and that silence can also be a meaningful expression of grief.

By Abigail David

Colombian music star Shakira and Nigerian Afrobeats sensation Burna Boy are set to perform the official song of the 2026 FIFA World Cup during the tournament’s opening ceremony in Mexico City.

The duo will perform Dai Dai at the iconic Estadio Azteca on June 11, ahead of the opening match between Mexico and South Africa.

According to FIFA, the anthem celebrates football’s ability to unite people across cultures and continents. The title, an Italian expression meaning “let’s go” or “come on,” is expected to be one of the highlights of the opening ceremony.

The event will also feature performances by J Balvin and Tyla as part of the festivities marking the start of the month-long tournament.

FIFA said the collaboration was designed to capture the energy, passion and global appeal of the World Cup, noting that Shakira and Burna Boy represent two of the most influential voices in contemporary music.

Additional opening celebrations are planned across the tournament’s host nations. In Canada, Michael Bublé and Alanis Morissette will headline festivities before Canada’s opening match in Toronto, while in the United States, Katy Perry and Future are scheduled to perform ahead of the hosts’ opening fixture in Los Angeles.

Shakira’s appearance marks another chapter in her long-standing association with the FIFA World Cup, having previously delivered global hits such as Waka Waka (This Time for Africa) and La La La.

The Colombian star is also expected to perform at the World Cup final on July 19, where she will co-headline the tournament’s first Super Bowl-style halftime show alongside Madonna and BTS.