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Meghan Markle returns to Instagram, Olamides “Carpe Diem” writes history, reaches 200 million streams on Spotify, Le Bron James makes more NBA history. Stay informed with our Rave News Summarywhich summarizes five of the hottest global news stories you need to stay informed, saving you time and energy. Consider it your daily news fix.
1. Meghan Markle returns to Instagram
Meghan Markle, Duchess of Sussex, is kicking off 2025 by returning to Instagram with a new video. pic.twitter.com/Ur5Gj94Mrg
— Popbasis (@PopBase) January 1, 2025
Meghan Markle has officially returned to Instagram after a year-long hiatus, launching a new account under the name @meghan. This marks her first independent social media presence since she closed her personal account before getting married Prince Harry in 2018 and ceasing posts on their joint account, @sussexroyal, in 2020. The Duchess of Sussex, who now lives in Montecito, California, shared an intimate first post: a candid video filmed by Prince Harry on a local beach. The clip shows Meghan barefoot as she happily runs towards the water and draws ‘2025’ in the sand, signaling a new start for her online presence.
According to sources, Meghan’s return to Instagram is in line with her and Harry’s commitment to promoting safer online spaces for young people and families. With over 100,000 followers before any content was posted, the account quickly gained popularity, reflecting the audience’s enthusiasm. Her profile photo, a stark black-and-white photo of the Duchess, replaces an earlier placeholder with pink flowers. Although the account is yet to be verified, its authenticity has been confirmed.
2. Olamide’s “Carpe Diem” makes history, reaches 200 million streams on Spotify
🚨YEARSOLD RECORDS:@Olamide‘Carpe Diem’ became the first ever album by a Nigerian rapper to reach 200 MILLION streams on Spotify. pic.twitter.com/3YT0S4XLL9
— 𝗔𝗟𝗕𝗨𝗠 𝗧𝗔𝗟𝗞𝗦 📀 (@AlbumTalksHQ) December 30, 2024
Nigerian rap sensation, Olamide has made history as his 2020 album “Carpe Diem” surpasses 200 million streams on Spotify, becoming the first album by a Nigerian rapper to reach this milestone. Released on October 8, 2020, the album’s enduring appeal highlights Olamide’s unique sound that combines Yoruba musical elements with contemporary hip-hop and Afrobeats. With hit songs and collaborations with stars such as Fireboy DML And Grandma lay, “Carpe Diem” continues to resonate with fans around the world.
This groundbreaking achievement underlines Olamide’s influence and the growing prominence of Nigerian music on the world stage. In addition to his individual success, it is a testament to the rise of Afrobeats and the international embrace of African artistry. Olamide’s triumph with “Carpe Diem” not only elevates his legacy but also inspires future Nigerian artists to reach even greater heights.
3. SZA says new songs and mixes for “LANA” will be released in January
I just found out that all the updated mixes and new songs will be added on January 6th when the label returns from vacation. Sorry they can’t do it sooner 🥹. I wanted to keep you all informed ❤️ Thank you for your patience ❤️
— SZA (@sza) December 30, 2024
Fans of SZA have something to look forward to in the new year, as the R&B superstar confirmed on Monday, December 30, 2024, that updated mixes and new songs for “SOS Deluxe: LANA” will be released on January 6. On Twitter, SZA explained the brief delay, attributing it to her label’s vacation. Previously released in December 2024, the deluxe version of her chart-topping album “SOS” includes collaborations with big names such as Kendrick LamarLil Yachty, Phoebe BridgersAnd Don Toliverwith the project capturing the No. 1 spot on the Billboard 200 for the eleventh non-consecutive week.
The announcement comes after minor delays in LANA’s rollout, including SZA’s decision to rework the mixes post-release. Fans have been eagerly speculating about the upcoming updates, fueled by teasers of unreleased songs such as ‘Take you’, ‘PSA’, And “Open arms.” With 2025 shaping up to be a milestone year for SZA, including her acting debut in the Keke Palmer-led comedy ‘One of those days’, the artist continues to cement her place as a multi-hyphenate powerhouse.
4. Tems’ ‘Love Me Jeje’ Tops Rolling Stone’s Top 40 Afropop Songs of 2024
Rolling Stone’s Top 10 Afropop Songs of 2024 🌍
1️⃣ Tems – Love me Jeje
2️⃣ Rema – Ozeba
3️⃣ Tyla, Gunna and Skillibeng – Jumping
4️⃣ Aya Nakamura & Ayra Starr – Hypé
5️⃣ TitoM, Yuppe, Burna Boy & SNE, Tshwala Bam (Remix)
6️⃣Tiakola – Psychological
7️⃣ Bensoul & Bien – Extra busy… pic.twitter.com/cHhiWI2qZW– 49th. (@the49thstreet) December 30, 2024
Nigerian artist Tams has claimed the top spot with her hit on Rolling Stone’s long-awaited list of the Top 40 Afropop Songs of 2024 “Love me Jeje.” Described by curator Mankaprr Conteh as “sweet and sunny,” the song is a modern reinterpretation of Seyi Sodimu’s Classic from 1997, imbued with Tems’ characteristic emotional lyrics and powerful vocals. The card also features another Nigerian sensation, Remawhose trendy and exciting hit “Ozeba” secured the number two position. by Ayra Starr ‘Love Story of Lagos’, at number eight adds to Nigerian dominance in the top ten.
A total of thirteen Nigerian artists made the list, showcasing the global impact of Afrobeats and the country’s rich musical offering. Highlights include from Asake collaboration with Travis Scott on “Active” at number 11, from Sarz “Happiness” with Asake and Gunna at number 14, and Tiwa Savages reflective “Forgiveness” at number 28. The list, compiled by an international panel of music experts, celebrates the genre’s growing influence, highlighting diversity, regional representation and unique artistry.
5. LeBron James is making more NBA history
Tonight: LeBron will be the FIRST player to play a game in the NBA as a teenager and as a 40-year-old.
And he plays the Cavs… 🤯🐐 pic.twitter.com/91nC12UHLV
— Legion Hoops (@LegionHoops) January 1, 2025
LeBron James once again etched his name in NBA history, becoming the first player to enter the league as a teenager and over 40. The milestone came on December 30, just after James turned 40, during the 122-110 win over the Los Angeles Lakers. loss to the Cleveland Cavaliers at Crypto.com Arena. Despite the loss, James had a solid performance with 23 points, further highlighting his longevity and excellence in his 22nd NBA season, a record he shares with Vince Carter. Widely celebrated as one of basketball’s greatest players, James also holds the title of the NBA’s all-time leading scorer, a feat he achieved in 2023.
James’ storied career, which began as an 18-year-old in 2003, includes four NBA championships, four MVP awards and countless moments of brilliance. Meanwhile, the Cavaliers were led by Jarrett Allens With a 27-point effort, they recorded their eighth straight win and maintained their position atop the Eastern Conference. Elsewhere in the competition is Giannis Antetokounmpo powered the Milwaukee Bucks to a comeback win against the Indiana Pacers, while Shai Gilgeous-Alexander’s A 40-point game extended the Oklahoma City Thunder’s winning streak to 12.
Featured image: @diary.of.a.duchess/Instagram
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