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I don’t support Anti-LGBTQ+ bill because it violates human rights – M.anifest

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Popular Ghanaian rapper, M.anifest has added his voice to the passage of Ghana’s draft Proper Human Sexual Rights and Ghanaian Family Values bill (Anti-LGBTQ+), currently under consideration in parliament.

According to him, he does not support the passage of the Anti-LGBTQ+ bill.

Explaining his reasons, he indicated that the Anti-LGBTQ+ bill if passed, would be a gross violation of human rights because such individuals are entitled to do what they deem fit.

He continued that although he does not support gay and lesbianism, criminalizing it would be an infringement upon the rights of the persons who are involved hence, he does not concur with the passage of the Anti-LQBTQ+ bill which is under consideration in parliament.

Speaking in an interview with Pulse TV, M.anifest emphasized that religious beliefs cannot be relied upon to criminalize an act that breaches the human rights of those involved.

“I am not in support of the anti-LGBTQ+ bill. I’m not in support of anything that is a human rights violation. I think a lot of things in life are very basic. My viewpoints in life in terms of human rights are very basic.

“You can have disagreements whether it’s religious or whatever, but when it comes to human rights, it’s quite clear. It’s not here to infringe on anybody’s rights, whether you disagree or not. So then that’s quite simple. And that cuts across, for me, that’s a basic thing in life,” he said.

The Anti-LGBTQ+ bill is currently under consideration in parliament and it is championed by the Member of Parliament for the Ningo-Prampram constituency, Sam Nartey George.

Some celebrities in the country have voiced concerns against the bill citing human rights violations.

It remains to be seen whether the bill would be passed by parliament or not.

DSP Kofi Sarpong graduates from GIMPA with Master’s in International Relations

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Multiple award-winning Ghanaian Gospel musician and Police Officer, William Kofi Sarpong popularly known as DSP Kofi Sarpong, has graduated from the Ghana Institute of Management and Public Administration (GIMPA).

The celebrated Ghanaian gospel singer, who mesmerizes audiences with his soulful voice and profound lyrics has bagged himself a Master’s Degree in International Relations and Diplomacy.

The Gospel singer shot to fame in 2013 with his ‘Ayeyi Ndwom’ hit song which features renowned Gospel music producer, Nacy.

DSP Sarpong is spotted in several photos posing with his Cert and graduation gown.

Check him out below;

Family Concert 2023: Fameye joins forces with Bisa Kdei, Yaw Tog, Mr. Drew, and Amerado

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Ghana’s music industry is set to witness an electrifying event as sensational artist Fameye brings together a stellar lineup of talented musicians for his highly anticipated upcoming Family Concert.

This gathering of musical powerhouses will feature none other than Yaw Tog, Mr. Drew, Bisa Kdei, Lasmid, King Paluta, Amakyetherapper Amerado, Aziz Havoc, Fiifi Lattex, Kux promising an unforgettable night of entertainment and celebration.

With each artist boasting their unique style and musical prowess, fans can expect an extraordinary showcase of talent and artistry in Ashanti Mampong Tadiem Park this 30th December.

The Rise of Fameye:
Fameye, born Peter Famiyeh Bozah, has swiftly risen to prominence within the Ghanaian music scene. Known for his distinctive voice and soulful melodies, Fameye has captured the hearts of music lovers with hit tracks like “Nothing I Get” and “Praise.” His ability to blend afrobeats, highlife, and hip-hop has earned him a loyal fan base and critical acclaim.

The Concert will be one unforgettable experience

Fameye’s upcoming concert serves as a testament to his commitment to providing his fans with a remarkable live experience. From soulful melodies to high-energy performances and thought-provoking rap verses, the concert is set to showcase the diverse musical landscape of Ghana.

The family concert upcoming is undoubtedly an event that music enthusiasts in Ghana cannot afford to miss.

The collaboration of these talented artists is a testament to the vibrant and evolving nature of Ghana’s music industry. As they take the stage together, fans can expect an extraordinary display of talent, energy, and creativity.

Fameye’s concert promises to be a night to remember, leaving a lasting impression on all attendees and further solidifying the legacy of these remarkable artists.

Ministry proposes 544% increase in passport application fees

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The Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Regional Integration has put a proposal before Parliament to review the current charges for passport application from GH¢100 to GH¢644.

This is a 544% increase.

The proposal, which is currently being considered by the Committee on Subsidiary Legislation, is to enable the ministry to curb losses in the printing of passport booklets.

The Minister of Foreign Affairs, Shirley Ayorkor Botchwey, who made this known in Parliament on Thursday, said “It is time for Ghanaians to pay realistic prices for passports they acquire to travel beginning next year.

She said it is due to financial constraint prevailing in the economy, it had come to a point where it was no longer “sustainable” for the state to continue to subsidise passports.

“Ghanaians pay just about GH¢100 for a passport yet to produce one passport booklet it costs GH¢400 which means that for every passport that an applicant acquires, the government has to put in GH¢300 and this is not sustainable,” she said.

The minister stated this ahead of the approval of the GH¢1.127 million budget estimates for her ministry.

Other countries’ charges

Per the report by the Committee on Foreign Affairs on the 2024 budget estimates of the ministry, a comparison of Ghana’s passport fees with that of other West African countries shows the rate of $7.7 is the lowest within the sub-region.

The report said Cameroon charges $180, Guinea $57, Guinea-Bissau $65, Burkina Faso $80 and Nigeria $54.29.

Speaking to Graphic Online’s Nana Konadu Agyeman outside the Chamber, Ms Ayorkor Botchwey said the current passport fees in Ghana was insufficient to cover production costs.

She stressed that the deficit in the printing of passport booklets was preventing the necessary investments in the Passport Office.

“Passports are no longer sources of identification as we all have our national ID. Therefore, anybody who needs a passport and applies and acquires a passport does so because they have intention to travel.

“So, if you are going to travel or you intend to travel and you cannot pay GH¢400 then it is unfortunate because even tickets are now expensive,” she said.

The minister also appealed to Ghanaians who were not in a hurry to travel to, “please do not go for passports”.

Dwelling on providing responsive services to applicants, Ms Botchwey said Ghanaians had complained about services and environment provided by the ministry at passport applications centres.

To address such challenge, she said the ministry has provided applicants with options for consular services, passport, visas or attestations.

“We have provided them with options to go to a premium centre where they pay a fee to the service provider in the comfort where they will be provided world class frontend services,” she said.

Source: Graphic.com.gh

Watch: Ras Kuuku takes reggae to the classic table with “Eye Ball” live performance

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Multiple award-winning Ghanaian reggae/dancehall artiste Ras Kuuku is serving us a different side of himself and we need to pay attention.

After recently releasing his latest EP titled “Allow”, the award-winning Rastaman has stepped up his own own by serving us live performances of his new and old works.

With the latest being “Eye Ball”, single off his “Allow” EP which features SAMINI. The song was originally done with SAMINI and a remix version is served on the EP, also done with Samini again. This shows how Ras Kuuku is attached to the song and wants to give it more life.

Before you watch the live session of “Eye Ball”, kindly take a listen to his “Allow” EP listed on the Major Digital Stores now:

Stream “Allow” EP: https://mipromo.ffm.to/ras-kuuku-allow-ep

Watch “Eye Ball” Here on YouTube:

Israel Maweta opens up on 19th Album “Amenuveve”, sets January 5th for official release

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Israel Maweta takes the big leap with his much anticipated new album he titles “Amenuveve”, and Ewe parlance which means “Grace”.

Pre-Order “Amenuveve” Album Here: https://ditto.fm/amenuveve

After officially breaking the news to his fans on social media a little over a week ago, Israel Maweta has hinted that the upcoming Album “defines a new chapter of his life. After going through many hurdles, trials and tribulations for the past few years, I think it’s time to feed more of me to my Big Family who have been with me over 2 decades and of course, my newly created home on social media for the online followers.

“Amenuveve” is an 8-tracked Album by the Iconic Musician set about various themes within the Gospel circles. With detailed information on the producers and song titles, Israel Maweta is tight-lipped on those now but says he will drop more intriguing details in the next couple of days. For now, he just wants to share some promotional images with his Fans across the world and also share the pre-order link for the album as he gets ready to serenade them.

About Israel Maweta:

With over 18 Studio Albums under his belt and a music career spanning over 25 years and still counting, Israel Maweta, has enviably carved a unique niche for himself as a very iconic music stalwart, in both Gospel Music and African Traditional Sounds – a style that is very rare on the Ghanaian music market. His style of music is always positive driven with Godly messages and teachings that influence society through the power of lyrics, rhythm and melody.

Israel is not just a flawless Songwriter but is also a Music Composer and Producer, of which almost all his albums were produced by him. Anyone who watches him perform for the first time automatically transforms into a chronic fan of his music.

Many who know his exploits tip him as ‘Volta Region’s Music Library’ – effortlessly, Israel Maweta has showed extreme mastery through his successive Albums and Singles exploring various indigenous AND Urban Sounds like Borborbor, Agbadza, Kinka, Gospel, Zibo, Asafo Music, Zigi, Reggae, Appellations (Spoken Word), Afrobeats, just to name a few.

Israel Maweta has won ‘Traditional Song of the Year’ at the Vodafone Ghana Music Awards (2003) with his hit single ‘Akume He’. He is a well-known Musician within Volta Region and beyond, and even in the diaspora, when it comes to indigenous music genres.

Top songs he is mostly identified with are “Mehaya”, “Woe Woe”, “Key Soap”, “Manor Amesi”, “Netuwo Di Ha”, “Meadewo Fe Dume”, “Ku Ne Madi”, “Edzobibi”, “No Zidodoe”, “Edrorlali”, just to name a few.

Follow Israel Maweta across his social media platforms below:

Facebook — Israel Maweta

TikTok — @IsraelMaweta

Instagram and X (Twitter) — @MawetaMusic

Bookings: [email protected]

Management: +233266633090

LISTEN: DJ Lord OTB serves the Hottest Afrobeats Hits with his ‘Detty December Mix’

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DJ Lord OTB, Ghana’s DJ of the Year, has responded to the demands of his ardent followers and listeners by introducing a brand-new mix series called ‘Detty December Mix.’ This mixtape, which is well-timed for the holiday season, promises to be a musical trip through some of the best Afrobeat tunes, with an emphasis on the lively sounds of Ghana and Nigeria and the catchy
beats of Amapiano.

DJ Lord OTB’s ‘Detty December Mix’ is a dynamic audio experience that you can enjoy in the comfort of your own home as December unfolds and the holiday spirit takes hold. The mixtape expertly combines classic and contemporary Afrobeat tracks to create a smooth flow that perfectly embodies joy.

Afrobeats fans can expect a wide range of songs that have ruled the charts and dance floors, giving them a complete picture of the genre. From timeless hits to the newest chart-toppers, DJ Lord OTB makes sure the mix is a lively exhibition of musical variety.
The Detty December Mix is a carefully curated mix that aims to enhance the holiday vibe, not merely a list of songs. DJ Lord OTB’s mix promises to provide the energy and rhythm required to make this December truly “detty,” whether you’re throwing a party, traveling, or just seeking a musical getaway.

DJ Lord OTB, who is well-known for his skill in creating dynamic mixes and sensing the mood of the crowd, brings his best to the “Detty December Mix.”

With its ability to evoke strong feelings and create lasting memories, the ‘Detty December Mix’ is destined to become a staple backdrop for festivities this holiday season. Afrobeat is infectious, so get ready to dance, sing along, and enjoy DJ Lord OTB’s musical spectacular.

Listen to ‘Detty December Mix’ across all platforms: https://tr.ee/IRvita04BC

Ghana’s female comedians lack confidence – Jacinta

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While one can count a good number of male comedians in Ghana, you can count the females on one hand and still have some fingers left.

And because comedy is male-dominated here, comedienne Jacinta reveals that females need a lot of confidence to break through.

According to the talented Jacinta, the reason the country can boast of few female comedians is because they lack confidence.

“It is presumed that comedy is for men and women are not cut for it so once you decide to be a comedian, you are seen in some way. I didn’t get it easy starting my career and I still get comments about why a beautiful girl like me has decided to ‘fool’.

“I was very passionate about comedy and never cared about whatever anyone said. I needed to break through and in doing that, I had to build my confidence and today I am proud of what I have become. I never allowed whatever anyone said to bring me down.

“You don’t have to listen to negative comments if you are focused on something,” she told the Graphic Showbiz in an interview.

Jacinta, who headlined her shows One Night Stand last year and Woman On Top in October this year, added that female comediennes can, however, up their game by starting with the small gigs and then move to the bigger ones when they build their self-esteem.

“I have featured a few females on my show a couple of times and what I realised is that they lacked self-confidence. Maybe, the stage was too much for them but they can start from the pubs, weddings and then move unto the main stage with time.

“When you are so confident, you can even turn a joke which is not too funny into a side-splitting one. The boldness with which you would coin your joke will make the fans fall for it”, she disclosed.

In addition to that, she also divulged that a lot of research needs to be done if one wants to succeed as a comedian. “Repeating jokes is not the best and to stay on top of your game, you need to research trending issues and get new jokes to always blow the minds of your audience. Light entertainment is not an easy task, especially if you want to be on top, “she said.

The graduate of the Pentecost University College who featured in Yvonne Nelson’s movies Heels and Sneakers and Selfie was born Jacinta Asi Ocansey. She has performed at top comedy shows in Ghana and Nigeria. These include Comedy Night with Buchi (Lagos), Shakara and the Gang (Lagos), Comedy Express, Girltalk, Laughline, Live Comedy Thursdays, Lord of the Ribs, Easter Comedy Show, DKB Live, DKB Point of View, Akwaaba UK Comedy Night, Comedy Bar, Silverbird Comedy Night, Corporate Comedy Series, MMC Live among others.

Some of the awards she has to her credit are Most Influential Student Comedian, Most Popular Student and Most Entertaining Student at the Ghana Tertiary Awards (2016).

Source: Graphic.com.gh

Samini, Black Sherif, Smallgod, Reggie Rockstone lead #PlayGhana initiative

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The Tourism, Arts and Culture Ministry in collaboration with the Creative Arts Agency and some stakeholders of the music industry on Thursday, launched the #PlayGhana initiative.

This initiative aims to promote Ghanaian music across the country ahead of the Christmas ‘detty December’ activities where there is an influx of diasporans spending their holidays in Ghana.

Speaking at the press briefing, The Director of the Creative Arts Agency, Gyankroma Akufo-Addo, noted that through the Christmas season, a time when the creative community shines, Ghanaian culture, including fashion, arts and food, travels to other parts of the world courtesy of diasporans. However, music always lags.

“Today marks the day that we are pledging to push Ghanaian music to the forefront of our audiences, starting at home. The Creative Arts Agency will collaborate with stakeholders and players of the music industry, film and broadcasting to review our local content regulations,” she noted.

Miss Akufo-Addo added that “both the Cultural Policy and the Broadcasting Bill must be amended and enforced. Our Nigerian cousins have implemented 70% local content law, within music, film and broadcasting, Ghana must do the same.”

Also at the #PlayGhana press briefing, musicians Smallgod, Samini, Reggie Rockstone and Black Sherif were present to help push the initiative.

Samini noted that it was high time Ghanaian music was given at the front seat stating that the consistent play of foreign music over local songs has greatly affected the promotion of the industry.

“We’ve always been advocating the fact that we need to hear more of our music when we are in our own territory. Because that’s what we see when we go to other territories. If you go to Kenya, for instance, you hear strictly East African music. Yes, of course, we have the Nigerian invasion, which is inevitable, which is not the competition here.”

“That’s not the complaint here. That’s not the target here. What we’re talking about is that, especially for the fact that we have beyond the return, which has become like an asset to Ghana, should anybody travel here and listen to 70% foreign music and 30% Ghanaian music, then what music have we sold to those who returned,” Samini added.

The ‘My Own’ hitmaker stated that Ghanaian music is underrepresented on streaming platforms explaining that continuously feeding the public foreign music has introduced them to other singers rather than the country’s own.

“It has to be a deliberate approach. It has to be strategic and deliberate, without malice to any other force or any other group. Let’s make sure ours is ours, and let’s make it appealing to the masses,” he added.

Also speaking at the event, Black Sherif stated that they are not apportioning blame to anyone but rather hoping for a united front to push Ghanaian music.

“You know, this is not a blame game. We are not blaming DJs. We are not blaming artists. We are not blaming consumers. It’s a step in the right direction for us all, our music and our culture. So play Ghana. Blessings.”

Meanwhile, Smallgod stated that this was not to stoke competition with anyone or country but a project to garner support for the music industry.

He hoped that every stakeholder and the general public support the agenda.

“We’re not saying don’t play other music, you could play other music but let the people feel Ghana and feel us,” Smallgod added.

By: Nasiba Yakubu  

Jocom Golden Hotel hosts maiden edition of prestigious Upper East Youth Excellence Awards

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A night of glitz, glamour, and celebration took place at the Jocom Golden Hotel as it played host to the highly anticipated maiden edition of the Upper East Youth Excellence Awards . The event, held on December 9th, aimed to recognize the outstanding achievements of young individuals in the region and inspire a future generation of leaders.

The prestigious awards ceremony showcased the remarkable talent, hard work, and commitment displayed by young people across various fields, ranging from academics to entrepreneurship, arts to sports, and community service to innovation. The evening brought together a diverse group of extraordinary individuals who have made significant contributions to the Upper East region and have become role models for their peers.

With the theme “Recognizing Achievements and Inspiring the Future,” the event provided a platform to acknowledge the accomplishments of these exceptional individuals and propel them towards even greater success. The Upper East Youth Excellence Awards aimed to not only honor their achievements but also inspire others to follow in their footsteps.

The event kicked off with a mesmerizing red carpet entrance, where the nominated youth walked proudly, exuding confidence and anticipation. The atmosphere was filled with excitement, as guests mingled and exchanged congratulations, sharing stories of inspiration and motivation.

Once the ceremony began, the crowd was captivated by the heartfelt speeches given by esteemed guests and dignitaries who commended the young achievers for their relentless pursuit of excellence. The keynote address emphasized the importance of recognizing and nurturing talent, highlighting that the Upper East region has immense potential waiting to be unleashed.

Throughout the evening, the award winners were announced one by one, each taking the stage to graciously accept their well-deserved accolades. The room erupted with applause and cheers as the names of these outstanding individuals were called out. Their stories of determination and perseverance resonated with the audience, inspiring them to believe in their own abilities and potentials.

In addition to the individual awards, special recognition was given to organizations that have created opportunities and platforms for the youth in the region. These organizations were applauded for their efforts in supporting and nurturing young talents, and their commitment to empowering the next generation.

As the night progressed, performances by talented young artists showcased the vibrant arts and cultural scene in the Upper East region, adding an element of entertainment and joy to the event.

The significance of the Upper East Youth Excellence Awards extended beyond just one evening of celebration. The event served as a catalyst for growth, fostering a sense of unity and pride among the youth of the region. It encouraged them to dream bigger, work harder, and strive for excellence in their respective endeavors.

Another highlight of the night was when the organizers of this prestigious scheme awarded the winner with the highest votes a 43 inches digital television in fulfillment of their goal of investing in awardees.

Others winners went home with Plaques, citations and many more.

Reality show “GH Queens” season II returns with all-new cast

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Ghana’s number 1 reality TV show, “GH Queens”, season two will be returning to screens on December 15, with an all-new cast.

The new season was officially premiered at an exclusive screening party held at Ilona restaurant in Accra on Wednesday – which saw the show’s star-studded cast, Ghanaian celebrities, socialites, and influencers in attendance.

“GH Queens” follows the fabulous, glamorous, and fast-paced lives of four relentless and ambitious women in Ghana’s entertainment industry. The show gives an exclusive glimpse into the lives of Efia Odo, Mona 4 Real, Michy Diamond, and Cookie as they navigate life in the spotlight.

“GH Queens is not just another show, it’s a passion project that aims to shed light on the untold stories of women in the Ghanaian entertainment industry,” Ayebea “BZ” Darko, creator and executive producer of the show, said.

She added that the show will introduce these incredible women who are often judged based on their social media and blogs in a very candid never-seen-before way. To her, there is so much more to these women than meets the eye.

This season will also be seeing some new faces including makeup artist and influencer, Elizabeth Bigah and Nigerian-Dominican radio presenter/stylist, Deja Lee.

“GH Queens” shows every Friday at 21:30 GMT on Akwaaba Magic and Showmax.

“She didn’t have my permission” – Mark Angel finally speaks out about Emanuella’s viral dance video

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Popular Nigerian skitmaker, Mark Angel has reacted to the viral video of child comedienne, Emmanuella Samuel, rocking an inappropriate bodycon gown which stirred reactions online.

In the video, Emmanuella can also be seen showing off her curves while dancing and walking. The outfit also exposes the majority of her backside.

Some netizens criticised her outfit, claiming that it was inappropriate and revealing for a 13-year-old.

Reacting to this, Mark Angel issued a disclaimer disclosing that he never gave his consent to the said video.

According to him, Emmanuella rocked her elder sister’s gown and posted it on WhatsApp. However, he considered the adult a family friend who should have done the right thing and called their attention to the clip because Emanuella posted it without understanding the consequences.

The elderly comedian took responsibility for Emanuella’s actions and sincerely apologised for the discomfort it caused.

His statement read in part: “Emanuella wore her Elder sister’s Slit Gown and posted it on her WhatsApp story without our knowledge, one of our close family friends who is hungry for views immediately downloaded the video and Reposted it on her own TikTok account and that’s how the video went viral, please this was a mistake and I am taking steps to make sure this doesn’t happen again”

I won’t change my lyrics because some people can’t understand – M.anifest

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Award-winning rap icon M.anifest has clarified that he will not simplify his lyrics just because some classes of people claim not to understand him.

According to him, he will continue to play with words and challenge the brains of people with his lyrics because that is what he stands for.

Speaking in an interview on Hitz FM, the “God MC” Rapper compared his music to mining indicating that surface mining does not give miners the best gold but rather digging deep does.

“So this thing about big English, I use, I’m in the business of words so I’m not going to limit what I say. I’m just going to come and say Baby wine your waist.

I’m not going to limit it. My lyrics are understandable but you can also dig deeper for more. In life, the most precious things are found deeper in the earth. Mining is not done on the surface, when you want the precious minerals you dig deep,” he said.

Video: Nana Ama McBrown Causes a Stir with no-makeup

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Ghanaian actress and TV host Nana Ama McBrown has set social media ablaze with her no-makeup video as she enjoyed a large size of green apple in the video.

McBrown was captured at the second edition of the Onua Ghana Power Walk that was held on December 1, 2023.

The walk started from the forecourt of the premises of Media General Group through some principal streets in Accra, and ended at where it started.

However, an Onua TV cameraman strangely zoomed in to take the face of McBrown, while she was enjoying her apple.

All the spots on her face were shown, though McBrown wore makeup, it wasn’t professionally done.

Watch video below;

@onuatv_fm Empress @iamamamcbrowngh ♬ original sound – Onua TV

‘My heart was the most played this year’ – DJ Cuppy

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Nigerian female disc jockey, Florence Otedola, better known as DJ Cuppy, has reminisced on her broken romantic relationship with British ex-fiancé, Ryan Taylor.

It can be recalled that the relationship between DJ Cuppy and the British boxer was always a topic of discussion online until their sudden split a few months after being engaged.

After breaking off their engagement, Ryan made a jest announcement on Instagram, stating he left all his ex-girlfriends due to their driving skills.

However, in a post via her X handle on Thursday, Cuppy said people do not really need to check Spotify’s annual chart for the most-played songs this year because it was her heart.

She wrote: “Meanwhile, you don’t have to check Spotify; my heart was the most played this year.”

Earlier at an event, in the video making the rounds online, DJ Cuppy said there is power in uncertainties and failure, stressing that even the biggest and most successful women experience failure.

She noted that her life has been unpredictable despite being from a privileged background.

Cuppy recounted how a jewelry line she established at age 28 failed, almost failed at Oxford University, and failed in her relationship with British boxer, Ryan Taylor.

Mynigeria.com

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