Entertainment
Qing Madi steps into Spotify EQUAL Africa spotlight
Global streaming giant, Spotify, announced today that Nigerian sensation singer, Qing Madi has joined its EQUAL Africa music programme. Since her arrival on the Nigerian music scene, the multi-talented songwriter and entertainer has captivated fans with her craft, and this month, she is being recognised as Spotify’s EQUAL Africa ambassador for June.
For Qing Madi, born Chimamanda Pearl Chukwuma, music has been her only calling and her artistic genius was evident when she launched her career. at the early age of seven. At 16, she delivered, See Finish, a record that highlighted her abilities and has made her a rising star to watch.
Heavily influenced by her cultural background and the lyrical arrangements of Kendrick Lamar, the versatile Nigerian prodigy is shaping the future of music with her unique genre-bending fusion of Afrobeats, Pop, Soul and R&B.
She took the Nigerian music industry by storm when ‘See Finish’ went viral on social media and caught the attention of listeners. While Qing Madi is currently working on her debut EP, she released a follow-up single Why which further showcased her genre-blending ability as she combined smooth R&B vocal texture, Dancehall cadence, and Afrobeats melodies and lyrics to create an infectious song.
Qing Madi joins other Nigerian artists, Tiwa Savage, Ayra Starr, Asa, and FAVE as part of EQUAL Africa, which aims to spotlight and amplify the voices of talented female artists making waves in the music scene. In addition, it amplifies their music by exposing their catalogue to global listenership.
“We are proud to welcome Qing Madi to the EQUAL programme, and we’re so excited to see how her talent continues to take her from strength to strength. We hope by shining a light on talent like hers, we can inspire a new generation of creators,” says Spotify’s head of music for sub-Saharan Africa, Phiona Okumu.
Qing Madi says “As a female in the male dominated industry, I have to work a million times harder to be seen and heard. Being part of the Equal programme is an opportunity as a female to be visible globally and to grow my fanbase.”
With more young female stars like Ayra Starr, FAVE, Ria Sean, and Bloody Civilian breaking into the mainstream, Qing Madi is positioned to be the next young female talent to take her music to a bigger audience and Spotify is set to assist her in her goal through its EQUAL Africa Program.
Check out Qing Madi’s single Why on the EQUAL Africa playlist, and get to know more about her with our artist Q&A below:
- What is that one surprising thing your fans might not know about you?
That I am bilingual. I speak Spanish and Igbo as someone that was born, bred and raised in Nigeria. More so, I am currently learning Mandarin. One more thing, I am obsessed with learning to the point where I do it unintentionally.
- When did you realise that making music was in your destiny and what is your WHY for pursuing this craft?
Music for me wasn’t just a talent or an ability that I had. Not something that I was able to do, it was a life I wanted to live. A feeling that I wanted to express. Music is my shallow thoughts spoken loudly. It is my comfortable and confident space as a teenager. I knew it was my destiny from the first time I climbed on stage and held the microphone at seven years old. Something about being in charge of millions of people and being heard.
My why is easy. Growing up antisocial, it has been hard to justify my feelings and emotions, and music was a safe haven for me, and I believe so many people are still seeking theirs. As a 16-year old teenager, I want to be who they listen to when they seek peace.
- Which African songs or artists did you grow up listening to?
Tiwa Savage, Davido, Burna Boy and Wande Coal.
- To someone who has never heard your music, how would you describe the sound, tone, and style?
Afro, R&B, and a limitless sense of emotion.
- Any advice for someone dreading following their dreams?
Deafen your ears to the crowd and begin. Nothing begins unless you just start.
Management of Ghanaian dancehall artiste Shatta Wale, born Charles Nii Armah Mensah, has confirmed plans to take legal action against broadcaster and musician Blakk Rasta over comments they describe as defamatory.
In a press release issued on Monday January 19 2026, Shatta Wale’s management announced that the artiste has instructed his lawyers to file a defamation lawsuit following a series of public statements which they consider false and damaging to his reputation.
The statement noted that Shatta Wale respects freedom of expression and the role of the media in public discussion. |
However management stressed that free speech comes with responsibility and requires accuracy fairness and professionalism especially when discussing a person’s character and integrity.
According to the management the decision to go to court was taken after careful consideration.
They explained that the legal action is meant to protect the artiste’s personal and professional image and to reinforce the need for responsible broadcasting in Ghana’s media space.
Management also indicated that since the matter is now before the courts Shatta Wale will not address the issue through the media.
They expressed confidence in the judicial process and believe the courts are the right place to resolve the matter.
The statement assured fans business partners and the general public that Shatta Wale remains focused on his music ongoing projects and positive contributions to the entertainment industry.
By: Jacob Aggrey
The Christmas festivities were nothing short of fun and excitement, especially for patrons of Dodi World in Akosombo in the Eastern Region.
A major highlight was a memorable voyage aboard the famous MV Dodi Princess II, a 150-capacity pleasure boat, which sailed to the scenic Dodi Island, an 84-hectare natural haven.
Among the patrons was a vibrant social group known as ‘Weekend Day Out’, which brings together individuals from diverse backgrounds and workplaces to interact, share ideas and enjoy memorable leisure experiences.
On December 26, the group joined hundreds of other fun lovers to fill the vessel to capacity for what many described as an experience of a lifetime.
The over five-hour journey from Dodi World through to Dodi Island was electrifying. Patrons enjoyed breath-taking rare views of the island’s rich natural scenery and wildlife before returning onboard for the cruise back to the starting point.
The atmosphere was further enlivened by music from DJs and a live band, complemented by an array of drinks and grilled meals, ensuring both young and old had something to cheer about throughout the voyage.
For members of the Weekend Day Out group, the trip served as a joyful reunion with friends after a year of professional commitments, while also providing an opportunity to plan future adventures in the coming year.
Speaking after the event, one of the patrons, Ms Gloria Yaa Baby, said although she had embarked on the voyage several times, the most recent experience was particularly breathtaking and memorable.
“This one was different, with more people and interactive sessions. It gave me many reasons to return and experience the fun again with the Weekend Day Out group,” she stated.
With another exciting adventure scheduled for March this year, she encouraged Ghanaians to make time out of their busy schedules to relax, unwind and enjoy life.
By Spectator Reporter
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