Renowned Nigerian musician and producer Cobhams Asuquo has weighed in on the aftermath of the 68th Grammy Awards, expressing disappointment after Nigerian artists once again walked away without a win at the ceremony held in Los Angeles on Sunday night.

Reacting to the outcome, Asuquo criticised the Recording Academy, accusing the Grammys of benefiting economically from Nigerian artists while offering little more than temporary validation in return.

According to him, Nigerian musicians are often used to drive interest, visibility, and spending around the awards, especially in cities like Los Angeles.

Speaking on the issue, the producer described the Grammys’ relationship with Nigerian artists as misleading and transactional.

“I think Grammy is using Nigerians to boost the GDP of Los Angeles. It’s like a carrot dangling in front of us and it goes away,” he said.

His comments followed the Best African Music Performance category, where South African star Tyla emerged victorious once again, beating several Nigerian nominees.

Asuquo went further to address a deeper issue within the industry, pointing out that despite Afrobeats’ global dominance, Nigeria still lacks strong, respected institutions capable of recognizing and rewarding excellence on their own terms.

He urged key players in the Nigerian music space to shift focus from chasing foreign validation and instead invest in building credible, homegrown award platforms that truly reflect the culture and its impact.

“I think we need to build something that is ours,” he added, drawing a comparison with American sports culture. “It’s only America that will do Super Bowl and be playing it themselves.”

His remarks have since sparked conversations online, reigniting debates around recognition, ownership, and the long-term future of African music on the global stage.

“Grammy is using us to boost the GDP of Los Angeles. We need to build something that’s ours; they have the Superbowl. Let’s grow something that can make other people converge in our space.”

– Cobhams Asuquo pic.twitter.com/GmzagzRTqg

— Pulse Nigeria (@PulseNigeria247) February 3, 2026

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The collaboration delivers an emotionally charged Afro-fusion anthem that centres on strength, perseverance, and unshakeable hope.

Driven by lush instrumentation, moving vocal performances, and thoughtful songwriting, Despite (We Rise Up) stands as a bold statement on resilience.

The song speaks directly to a generation grappling with social and economic uncertainty, offering reassurance without denying the weight of reality. It is reflective yet uplifting, rooted in honesty and purpose.

Cobhams Asuquo brings his unmistakable touch to the record, anchoring it with rich musical depth and a cinematic feel that allows every emotion to breathe.

His production strikes a balance between intimacy and grandeur, creating a soundscape that feels personal but universal.

 

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Qing Madi shines with a soaring, heartfelt performance that captures both vulnerability and quiet optimism.

Her delivery adds emotional colour to the song, embodying the spirit of endurance at its core. Magnito complements this with sharp, socially conscious verses, drawing from lived experiences and collective struggles that many listeners can relate to.

At its heart, Despite (We Rise Up) is more than just a song it is a rallying cry. It reminds listeners that pressure can produce growth and that choosing to rise, even in difficult times, is itself an act of defiance.

Listen to ‘Despite (We Rise Up)‘ HERE

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In a heartfelt chat with HipTV, the Bottom Belle crooner reflected on the early days of her career, shortly after her breakout moment on Idols West Africa. She revealed that it was during this period that she met Cobhams, whose faith in her talent changed everything.

“Cobhams gave me one of my first opportunities outside Idol West Africa,” Omawumi recalled. “He told me to just go with it, and that project became a major turning point for me.”

That simple act of belief became a defining moment in her journey. Omawumi explained that their collaboration unexpectedly paved the way for her first major endorsement deal, one that lasted for two years.

“I did the song, and then the agency picked it. I became the brand ambassador for that product for two years,” she revealed.

The exposure from that partnership also opened new stages for the singer, giving her the chance to perform alongside P-Square at four major concerts across various cities.

Beyond the success and fame, Omawumi said Cobhams’ mentorship left a lasting imprint on her artistry. She described the producer as a creative genius whose insights not only shaped her sound but also her stage confidence.

“Cobhams taught me a lot of nuances when it comes to delivery and posture,” she said. “He helped me understand how to express emotion through performance.”

Omawumi’s reflection serves as both a tribute and a reminder of the power of mentorship in Nigeria’s ever-evolving music industry, where one act of belief can turn raw talent into timeless artistry.

‘Cobhams made me lay on the FLOOR to record “If You Ask Me” while pregnant’

— Omawumi opens up about working with Cobhams pic.twitter.com/MsxnXI2tLO

— HipTv (@HipTv) October 2, 2025

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Afrobeats heavyweight Davido has extended heartfelt appreciation to legendary Nigerian producer and composer Cobhams Asuquo, crediting him for significantly enhancing his live performance dynamics.

Taking to his Instagram story, Davido shared a touching message acknowledging the veteran music director’s creative input:

“Thank you so much for redefining my stage craft. I love you and got you for life, big brother,” he wrote.

Cobhams Asuquo, who was appointed as music director for Davido’s ongoing 5 Alive Tour, has brought a refreshing artistic direction to the singer’s stage presence.

The impact of his involvement was unmistakable during Davido’s recently sold-out concert at the Scotiabank Arena in Toronto, Canada.

The 19,000-capacity arena witnessed a remarkable performance that blended Davido’s chart-topping hits with richer musical arrangements, including compelling instrumental solos and creatively layered soundscapes that sampled iconic beats, adding a whole new depth to the show.

The night also featured electrifying appearances by guest artists, including Popcaan, Mayorkun, and Omah Lay, who all joined Davido on stage to deliver crowd-pleasing collaborations.

With this milestone, Davido joins the ranks of Nigerian stars like Burna Boy, Asake, and Rema, who have previously headlined the prestigious Canadian venue.

The 5 Alive Tour follows the release of Davido’s fifth studio album, 5ive, and showcases not just his evolving artistry but his commitment to elevating the live Afrobeats experience. For the tour, he’s joined by an impressive lineup of supporting acts, including Odumodublvck, Victony, and rising talent Moravvey.

 

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Next on the tour itinerary is the Barclays Center in New York, where Davido is set to continue displaying his newly refined stagemanship under the artistic guidance of Cobhams Asuquo.

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Afrobeats titan Davido has officially tapped legendary Nigerian producer, songwriter, and multi-instrumentalist Cobhams Asuquo as the music director for his upcoming 5ive Alive World Tour—a partnership poised to redefine the global live music experience for Afrobeats.

The announcement, made on June 3, 2025, via Davido’s social media platforms, was short but electrifying: “Let’s rock.” The post confirmed swirling rumors about an ambitious creative collaboration that had fans and industry insiders speculating for weeks.

Cobhams Asuquo, whose exceptional work with artists like Asa, Omawumi, and Banky W has made him one of Nigeria’s most respected musical architects, brings a reputation for live arrangement mastery, vocal finesse, and sonic storytelling. His involvement marks a powerful shift towards more intricate and globally resonant live performances within the Afrobeats genre.

Let’s rock. 🎸🌎🌎🌎 https://t.co/hBoNpzOktb

— Davido (@davido) June 3, 2025

The 5ive Alive World Tour, inspired by Davido’s chart-dominating fifth studio album 5ive, will span major cities across North America and other global hubs.

With Cobhams steering the live music direction, fans can expect sweeping orchestral builds, lush instrumentation, and dynamic reinterpretations of Davido’s biggest anthems—infused with global appeal and authentic African rhythms.

This partnership is being lauded as a pivotal moment for African music’s global evolution, marrying Davido’s arena-filling energy with Cobhams’ musical genius. It’s not just a tour—it’s a sonic revolution in motion.

As anticipation surges, both fans and critics are bracing for a tour that promises to set new standards for live Afrobeats, showcasing its emotional range, cultural richness, and universal power on the world stage.

🔥OFFICIAL: Cobhams Asuquo joins the 5ive Alive World Tour! 🌍🏟️

Renowned producer & musical genius, @cobhamsasuquo, has been named Music Director for @davido’s upcoming 5ive Alive World Tour. 🎼🔥

Let the symphony begin. 🎶✨#5iveAliveTour #Davido #30BG pic.twitter.com/2Mm8Y95VKp

— The 5ive Alive Tour (@5iveAliveWT) June 3, 2025

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Nigerian rapper and actor Ill Bliss has unveiled the tracklist for his highly anticipated album “Sideh Kai” on social media.

Sharing the album cover and tracklist, Ill Bliss announced that the album is set to be released on February 24, 2024. The project will feature collaborations with various Nigerian musicians, including Fave, Odumodublvck, Made Kuti, Teni, Vector, Cobhams Asuquo, and many others.

OFFICIAL TRACK LISTING and COVER ART FOR “SIDEH~KAI”

PRE- ORDER LINK- https://t.co/vJNyh3XuiN

24:2:24 pic.twitter.com/snPKp2e4tj

— iLLBLISS OGA BOSS (@illBlissGoretti) February 15, 2024

In addition to his music endeavors, Ill Bliss has also been involved in co-producing and creating the soundtrack for the new Showmax documentary series “Freemen.” This seven-part documentary series, which premiered on February 12, 2024, explores the Igbo Apprenticeship System—a longstanding tradition in the eastern region of Nigeria.

The documentary sheds light on how this system works, with young individuals being placed under the mentorship of experienced traders, artisans, or professionals to learn a trade or skill. After a period of training, these apprentices gain “freedom,” often accompanied by a cash settlement or seed money to start their own businesses.

Featuring interviews with prominent Igbo businessmen such as Dr. Cosmas Maduka (Coscharis), Obi Cubana, Ndubuisi Ekekwe, Bartholomew Duru Nwanguma, and others, the series delves into their personal experiences and reflections on how the Igbo Apprenticeship System has influenced their careers and contributed to their entrepreneurial success.

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Nigerian singer and composer Timi Dakolo has set a new release date for his latest album, ‘The Chorus Leader’.

The singer had earlier stated that his new album would be released on his birthday (20th January), but an official release date has been revealed as January 26th, 2024. The composer rushed to social media to apologize for the delay.

Check out the post below:

 

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‘The Chorus Leader‘ is a 17-track album featuring collaborations with versatile artists such as Patoranking, Falz, Phyno, Cobhams Asuquo, and more. Dakolo assures his audience of an exceptional musical experience with this highly anticipated album. The award-winning singer had earlier teased his fans with the release of the single ‘Men of the South’ in anticipation of his third studio album.

In an interview with Business Day Newspaper discussing his inaugural concert, titled ‘The Chorus Leader Live: All the things I didn’t say,’ the renowned artist delved into his values and shared insights into his decision-making process for accepting or declining certain shows.

He said, “There have been occasions where I declined offers that didn’t align with my values. I’ve declined to perform in shows that require certain attire or presentations that do not reflect my identity as an artist; I don’t want dancers not wearing full clothes’ as I want distractions on stage. My aim has always been to create an environment where my audience can focus solely on the music and the messages I convey”.

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There’s something unique Simi brings to features. Even when writing among the best wordsmiths, she exudes her own aura and her pen shines.

Simi is therefore, for the most part, the ideal feature for a song.

Born Simisola Ogundele, the artist has experimented with the art of rap from her early years. Her enthusiasm for the genre is evident in her flawless songwriting, which has excellent visual quality and the ideal weight—neither light nor heavy—for the song.

Even in other songs with talented vocalists, Simi never failsto shine.

Know You- Ladipoe

The Ladipoe song, which enjoyed success as one of the most popular in Nigeria in 2020, features Simi as a significant component.

Given it’s a rap song, Simi shines brightly as the star of this flirtatious anthem song and brilliantly brings the song’s narrative to life.

Running to You- Chike

When Chike’s “Running To You” was released in 2021, it quickly rose to the top of everyone’s list of love-themed songs. The record showed that Chike and Simi were a powerful pair who were capable of magic on a record together.

Soldier- Falz

When Soilder dropped, it was easy for fans to ship Simi and Falz as their chemistry was off the charts in the song. Falz plays a passionate lover who tirelessly chases after his love interest, Simi who seems to have disdain instead of love for him

A timeless song, it is quite obvious why this is on the list as “Soldier” is one of Simi’s earliest collaborations that was a hit. Oh, and Simi was the one who came up with the idea for the song.

Surrender- Mr Eazi

This song which is off of Mr. Eazi’s Lagos to London album served as the first of several in which the two artists would collaborate. A song like “Surrender” will be ranked this high on a list like this because Simi’s voice consistently finds a worthy sparring partner in Mr. Eazi’s, creating an ice and cold-like relationship.

Stainless- Zoro

This Zoro song is still dreadfully underappreciated. Simi was the cherry on top because of its unusual Highlife flavour and Zoro’s captivating performance, both of which complement a well-paced love tale. Simi’s contribution is, as usual, spotless and immaculate.

No Forget- Adekunle Gold

Before Adekunle Gold succeeded in wooing Simi into a marriage with him, they were lovers who kept their romance secret but a careful listener will detect the chemistry between the two when “No Forget” comes up.

As they two sing about navigating the challenge of keeping a relationship their respective parents are against, they hold the other to a promise, not to forget.

Halleluyah- Johnny Drille

How good will a song if two powerful vocalists collaborate, well “Halleluya‘ answers that question. Johnny Drille and Simi combine forces to make magic on a ballad that is forever catchy and classic.

We Plenti- Cobhamds Asuquo

An upbeat record, it settles into Cobhams’ frequently didactic preoccupations as both the veteran artist and Simi relate tales of essentially how one’s hustle will pay off if it’s God’s chosen time.

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Omawumi Megbele has recalled her encounter with visually challenged music singer Cobhams Asuquo, insisting that he sees.

The singer could be heard informing her band members that Cobhams Asuquo truly sees in a little video she posted on Instagram.

She provided additional evidence for her allegation by relating a recent incident that shocked her.
According to her, she tripped and Cobhams promptly caught her, which lends credence to her claim.

Cobhams, for his part, rejected this while asserting that his quick action was due to a very effective reflex.

They subsequently burst into laughter before Omamumi kicked off rehearsals for an upcoming show.

Captioning the video, she wrote:

“All I can say is @cobhamsasuquo dey see o! ????”

Watch the heartwarming clip below:

RELATED:

• Evergreen songs from Omawumi that will keep rocking the airwaves
• Throwback: Top 10 Classic Nigerian songs you didn’t know were produced by Cobhams Asuquo

In other news, Cobhmas recently released a special Christmas project dubbed, Christmas in Lagos.

Talking to the Guardians about the project, the singer/Producer said;

“A lot of thought goes into my music; the process is laborious sometimes. I wanted Christmas in Lagos to be a bit different. It is very whimsical; it is a testament to the fact that you can be a lot more relaxed and put out a great project. It was ‘vibes’ for me, from beginning to the end.

I feel like I have discovered a new way to make music; I do not overthink it. I just retained the same level of excellence and simplified the process. The whole project was done in less than five days. For me, that was a break from the norm of how I create music.”

He also revealed that he would be featuring Joeboy, Sauti Sol, Tubaba, Yemi Alade, Tems, Simi, Falz and others on his forthcoming album.

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The news of the death of Ifeanyi Adeleke, the first son of well-known Nigerian artist David Adeleke, better known as Davido, and his girlfriend Chioma on Monday night, horrified Nigerian celebrities and others.

Mp3bullet.ng previously reported that Ifeanyi Adeleke died after drowning in a swimming pool. A family source claims that the three-year-old drowned on Monday, October 31st, in the family’s private pool at their home in Lagos.

Celebrities have voiced their shock and trauma on their official social media profiles ever since Ifeanyi’s alleged death became public knowledge.

RELATED:

• Davido and Chioma Rowland reportedly lose their son, Ifeanyi
• Children of Nigerian Artists who are popular on social media

Ghanaian and Nigerian celebrities, including Stonebwoy, Vanessa Gyan, Sista Afia, Iyabo Ojo, Ayo Makun, Toyin Abraham, Daddy Freeze, Eniola Badmus and others, have been sympathizing with the couple.

Businessman Obi Cubana also reacted to the death of Davido’s son, Ifeanyi Adeleke.

He stated that he has never in recent years prayed for news not to be true like this.

Cubana said he slept and woke up hoping that the news of the death was a bad dream.

He also questioned why the devil always finds a way to take away the few things that give us happiness while pondering why bad things happen to good people.

Artists like Ckay, M.I Abaga, Wurld, Bella Shmurda, and Cobhams Asuquo, also took to Twitter to share their sympathies on the tragic incident.

British Rapper, Stefflon Don was one of the first artists to react to the incident.

She wrote;

“Prayers up for Chioma and Davido ????????❤️”

Prayers up for Chioma and Davido 🙏🏾❤️

— 1DON (@stefflondon) November 1, 2022

Prayers up for @davido, chioma and their families 🙏🏾🙏🏾😔😔💔💔. This is crazyyyy. I can’t even begin to imagine the pain…

— 𝙗𝙛 💋 (@ckay_yo) November 1, 2022

What a dark day. My heart and love go to David and Chioma..

💔🕊 @davido I pray for your heart and mind this period. You have endured so much loss brother. May God hold you in his arms and keep you through this

— The Guy (@MI_Abaga) November 1, 2022

Our Hearts, Love and Prayers with you all the way king. You’re not alone @davido 💙🙏🏾

— WurlD (@thisisWurlD) November 1, 2022

My heart is with David, Chioma and their loved ones. May God hold them in his Hands in this trying time. May His Peace remain with them. 💔

— The Elephant Man (@cobhamsasuquo) November 1, 2022

God please heal our broken 💔 hearts. 🙏🏾

— ✊🏾 yemialade (@yemialadee) November 1, 2022

💔🕊🕊 omg

— The Guy (@MI_Abaga) November 1, 2022

💔

— Yxng Alhaji 💐 (@BellaShmurda) November 1, 2022

Dear God, the comforter.please comfort the Adeleke family in this period.

— TERRI 🥽 (@starboyterri) November 1, 2022

 

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Hazel Oyeze Onou, also known as White Money, has signed a management contract with Empire Mates Entertainment (EME).

White Money announced the news on his verified Instagram profile on Tuesday, September 20.

The winner of Big Brother Naija 2021 shared photos from the official signing and also revealed that he has some songs which will be released on the 23rd.

He wrote; ”Now that we are in good hands, let the music flow.

“Egwu” & “You Bad” DROPS: 23:09:22 Are You Ready????”

See his post below:

 

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EME is co-owned by singer-turned-politician Bankole’ Banky W’ Wellington and pilot-turned-businessman Tunde Demuren which was founded in 2002.

It was home to recording artists such as Wellington himself and Niyola. DJ Xclusive was the label’s official DJ. Wizkid, Skales and Shaydee were all formerly signed to the label. Producers associated with the label include Masterkraft, Jay Sleek, Cobhams Asuquo, Spellz and Samklef, among others.

Banky W announced in February 2018 that E.M.E was dissolved as a record label; he said the label is now a talent management company focused on creative marketing, advertising, PR and brand events.

In 2021, Banky W revived the record label, after dropping a couple of singles alongside his Wife, who dropped her debut single in 2022.

RELATED:

• Nigeria’s most well-known music record labels and distribution
• BBNaija Stars who are also artists

In other news, White Money has revealed four favourite housemates in the 2022 BBNaija house.

The Big Brother Naija Season 6 winner, Whitemoney has taken to social media to list his favourite housemates in the ‘Level Up’ edition.

The winner of this year’s BBNaija will walk home with N100 million worth of prizes from sponsors of the show.

Taking to the bird app, the ‘Selense’ crooner in a Tweet disclosed that, he supports Phyna, Bryann, Hermes and Bella to win the grand prize.

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Making music involves a lot of songwriting, a song’s quality is mostly determined by how well its words are written, and these are the top 5 Nigerian artistes with the most deepest lyrics.

There are musicians in Nigeria’s music industry who have incredible songwriting skills, according to their ability to produce decent music with meaningful words in addition to good sounds, these artists are among the greatest in the business.

Nigerian-specific lyrics and melodies can be found in the Afrobeat or Afro-infused genre of music. It takes more than simply a terrific voice or charisma to create good music.

Cobhams

Cobhams Asuquo is one such artist who, although blind, is an all-around talented one. He not only sings well, but he also writes, produces, and composes music.

Cobhams Emmanuel Asuquo is a Nigerian-born songwriter/music producer/singer who started his academic training as a lawyer.

Previously signed to Sony/ATV UK publishing as a songwriter, Cobhams formed his first music production and label company Cobhams Asuquo Music Production (CAMP) in 2008.

In 2016 he started Vintage Gray Media Ltd. produced 74 episodes of “The Top 12 Countdown with Cobhams Asuquo” – a music countdown show aimed at showcasing new music

Brymo

Brymo is another musician. Most of his songs are expertly written, with traditional lyrics and excellent songwriting abilities.

Brymo released his debut studio album Brymstone, in 2007. His second studio album The Son of a Kapenta was released in 2012; it was supported by three singles; “Ara”, “Good Morning” and “Go Hard”.

His third studio album Merchants, Dealers & Slaves was released on 20 October 2013; it received positive reviews from music critics and was preceded by two singles; “Down” and “Eko”.

2baba

Innocent Ujah Idibia (born 18 September 1975), known by his stage name 2Baba, is a Nigerian musician, singer, songwriter, record producer, entrepreneur, philanthropist, humanitarian, and activist.

Noted for his vocal range, lyrical depth, and longevity, he is widely regarded as one of Nigeria’s greatest musicians of all-time.

He is most influential for the rise in popularity of Nigerian pop music in the 2000s, and his solo debut album Face2Face (with the smash hit “African Queen”) ushered in a new wave of awareness and reverence for Nigerian music amongst Africans on the continent and in diaspora.

Prior to July 2014, he went by the stage name 2face Idibia.

Fireboy DML

His breakthrough single “Jealous” first appeared on YBNL Nation’s collaborative album YBNL Mafia Family (2018), before being re-released on 25 March 2019.

The song is composed of guitar riffs, traditional drums and percussion; it combines African harmonies with elements of country and soul music.

“Jealous” was produced by Cracker Mallo and is centered around love and the complicated feelings that go along with it.

The visuals for “Jealous” was directed by Director K.

Burna Boy

Burna Boy’s debut studio album, L.I.F.E, was released on 12 August 2013, serving as the follow-up to his second mixtape Burn Identity (2011).

The album sold 40,000 copies on the first day of its release. Aristokrat Records later sold its marketing rights to Uba Pacific for ₦10 million.

The album’s release was preceded by five singles: “Like to Party”, “Tonight”, “Always Love You”, “Run My Race”, and “Yawa Dey”.

L.I.F.E was produced entirely by Leriq and features guest appearances from 2face Idibia, M.I, Timaya, Olamide, Reminisce, and Wizkid, alongside others

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