Asake teases a new song after reportedly leaving YBNL Record Label.
Afrobeats sensation Asake has sparked excitement by teasing a snippet of his upcoming single, “Why Love”. Renowned for blending captivating melodies with heartfelt lyrics, Asake’s preview offers a soulful track delving into themes of love and vulnerability. The snippet, which has quickly gone viral on social media, showcases his signature mix of Yoruba lyrics and infectious rhythms, set against smooth, reflective instrumentals. Fans have praised the artist’s consistency and are eagerly awaiting the full release, with many hailing the snippet as a testament to Asake’s artistry. Following the success of his chart-topping album Lungu Boy, which dominated streaming platforms, “Why Love” is poised to cement Asake’s status as a leading voice in Afrobeats. While no release date has been announced, the overwhelming buzz suggests fans won’t have to wait much longer for this highly anticipated track.
ASAKE – WHY LOVE (2025)
OUT SOON! 🦦💜 pic.twitter.com/mzypYjHZjK
— NTS. (@NoteSphere) January 12, 2025
Lil Baby set to release a new album, Dominique this February.
Atlanta rapper, Lil Baby has announced plans to release a new self-titled album, Dominique, in February, just weeks after dropping his latest project, WHAM. Announcing this project, Lil Baby wrote via his Instagram account, “See y’all again in a couple of weeks “Dominique” The Album 2-?-25.” In an interview with Spotify’s Rap Caviar, the Atlanta rapper explained that WHAM serves as a bridge to ease fans into his more mature sound. Now 30, Lil Baby reflected on his personal and artistic growth since entering the industry at 22, describing Dominique as a departure from his earlier, street-focused style. With WHAM offering tracks like “F U 2X” and “Streets Colder,” Lil Baby wanted to reintroduce himself before showcasing his evolved creativity. He revealed, “I feel like I got a whole new sound… I’m coming a whole different way.” The Grammy-winning rapper emphasized his intent to show more vulnerability, giving fans a glimpse of his true self beyond the rap persona they’ve known.
LIL BABY
DOMINIQUE 💿
(ALBUM)🚨FEBRUARY 2025🚨 pic.twitter.com/c8NgpX7I6q
— NFR Podcast (@nfr_podcast) January 13, 2025
Meghan Markle postpones the release of her show due to the California wildfires.
According to Netflix, Meghan Markle has postponed the release of her new Netflix series, With Love, Meghan, due to the devastating California wildfires. Originally set to premiere on January 15, the eight-episode series will now debut on March 4. In a statement, the Duchess of Sussex expressed gratitude to Netflix for supporting the delay, prioritizing those affected by the wildfires in her home state. The fires have claimed 16 lives, injured dozens, and forced thousands to evacuate, including areas near Meghan and Prince Harry’s Montecito home. The couple was recently seen visiting an emergency shelter in Pasadena to support displaced residents. With Love, Meghan will showcase tips on cooking, gardening, and hosting, with appearances by Roy Choi, Mindy Kaling, and Alice Waters. Prince Harry is also set to make a cameo in the series, filmed in Montecito, California.
Meghan Markle postpones Netflix show to March 4 due to California fires.
It was set to debut on January 15. pic.twitter.com/2twnKzsPDs
— Pop Crave (@PopCrave) January 12, 2025
Den of Thieves 2 grosses over $15.5m domestically in its opening weekend.
Lionsgate’s heist thriller, Den of Thieves 2: Pantera debuted at the top of the North American box office this weekend, earning an estimated $15.5 million. Industry analyst David A. Gross called it “a strong opening for a crime thriller sequel,” emphasizing its appeal to audiences over critics. The film stars Gerard Butler as Los Angeles sheriff “Big Nick,” who travels to Europe to track down a notorious gang of thieves. Inspired by the 2003 Antwerp diamond heist—the largest in history—the story delivers high-stakes action. Produced by Tucker Tooley, the sequel marks Lionsgate’s first No. 1 release in months and performed on par with the original Den of Thieves (2018). This is Butler’s best opening since Angel Has Fallen (2019), cementing his status as a reliable lead in gritty, action-packed films tailored for thrill-seeking audiences.
‘DEN OF THIEVES 2’ opens with $15.5M in the film’s domestic opening weekend.
It is Lionsgate’s first #1 film domestically since 2023. pic.twitter.com/6W1psPvIxr
— DiscussingFilm (@DiscussingFilm) January 12, 2025
Djimon Hounsou reveals struggles to make a living despite Hollywood career.
Acclaimed actor Djimon Hounsou has opened up about ongoing financial struggles despite his Hollywood success. In an interview with CNN’s African Voice Changemakers, the two-time Oscar nominee revealed he still faces challenges making a living through acting, despite critical acclaim and a career spanning over two decades. Known for standout roles in Gladiator and Blood Diamond, Hounsou shared that he feels “tremendously underpaid” compared to peers with fewer accolades. He also cited systemic racism and xenophobia as barriers, recalling how his breakthrough role in Amistad was met with condescension, limiting his opportunities. “Some studios saw me as if I had just come off the boat,” he explained, highlighting the industry’s biases. At 60, Hounsou remains active with roles in projects like A Quiet Place: Day One, but his calls for better compensation and equity continue to resonate in the push for diversity in Hollywood.
Djimon Hounsou says he is still struggling to make a living in Hollywood despite multiple roles in blockbusters
“I’ve been in this business making films now for over two decades with two Oscar nominations, been in many blockbuster films, and yet, I’m still struggling… pic.twitter.com/GLdNpc4Drf
— DiscussingFilm (@DiscussingFilm) January 12, 2025
