Entertainment – Deerichi: The Unpredictable Sound of Abuja
Introduction Based in Abuja, Deerichi (Dirichi Mark Eche-Ejikeme) is an artist from Anambra State, Nigeria, whose sound fearlessly blends Afro-fusion, Afro-swing, rap, and experimental elements. As both a performer and a sound engineer, he crafts music that is energetic, distinct, and deeply personal. About Me My name is Dirichi Mark Eche-Ejikeme, but you know me as Deerichi. I’m an artist from Anambra State, Nigeria, now based in Abuja. I started recording professionally in 2020 and have since developed a sound that blends Afro-fusion, Afro-swing, rap, and experimental elements. As both an artist and a sound engineer, I create music that is energetic, different, and deeply connected to my story. Musical Journey Music is what I breathe; it’s part of my everyday life. I used to rap on tables in boarding school just to stay connected to the art. My parents always surrounded me with music at home, and my dad’s encouragement—from me rapping Lil Wayne’s songs for him—fueled my passion. Music is like water to me—I can’t go a day without it. It’s not just what I do; it’s who I am. Signature Style My music is defined by a fearless blend of Afro-fusion, Afro-swing, rap, and experimental sounds. I don’t box myself into one lane; I create a sound that is unpredictable yet intentional, energetic yet soulful. What makes my style unique is the balance between hard-hitting rap flows, vibrant Afro rhythms, and melodies that stay with you. My signature is about pushing boundaries while staying authentic, giving listeners something they won’t hear anywhere else. Notable Achievements Began recording professionally in 2020, steadily building a unique sound. Released my debut EP, “At Midnight,” in September 2023, which reached #16 on the Top Alternative Albums chart in Nigeria and gained over 30,000 streams. Dropped the single “GBEDU” in 2025, a vibrant summer anthem praised for its global dance-floor energy. Performed live in front of an audience of over 1,000 people. Established a growing reputation in Abuja as a versatile independent artist and one of the city’s hardest rappers. My dual role as an artist and sound engineer has allowed me to hone a sound that sets me apart in Nigeria’s music scene. Existing Projects Don’t Leave (feat. Mikels_Alter) (2020) $iGNS (Two-Pack Single) (2024) At Midnight (EP) (2023) GBEDU (Single) (2025) Future Plans for My Brand God is the author of this story, so I’ll let Him keep writing. Influences and Inspirations I listen to all kinds of music, but my earliest influence was D’banj, who I still look up to. I’m also inspired by the creativity of Asake and the raw storytelling of Jeriq. Beyond artists, my greatest inspiration comes from my own life experiences. Everything I write is either a reflection of what I’ve lived through or a vision of the future I see for myself. I believe in honesty in music, so every song I make is rooted in truth. Discography Don’t Leave (feat. Mikels_Alter) [Single] (2020) At Midnight [EP] (2023) $iGNS [Two-Pack Single] (2024) GBEDU [Single] (2025) Upcoming Projects I can’t reveal much, but what I can promise is a continuous flow of “GBEDU”! Connect With Me Stay connected and follow my journey: Instagram – @deerichi X – @deerichi TikTok – @deerichi Threads – @deerichi YouTube – @deerichi Email (Bookings/Press): deerichibookings@gmail.com Listen HERE
Notchman Unveils “Udo Ga Achi” — A Soulful Afro Salad Anthem Exclusively on Hafrikplay
Lagos, Nigeria – August 20, 2025 — Nigerian Afro-fusion artist Notchman makes a powerful statement with the release of “Udo Ga Achi”, a vibrant, deeply soulful anthem that blends Afrobeats, reggae, and dancehall into his signature style he calls “Afro Salad.” The track is available exclusively on Hafrikplay. A Song From the Soul With infectious melodies, heartfelt storytelling, and a magnetic chorus, “Udo Ga Achi” is more than a song — it’s a reflection of Notchman’s resilience, gratitude, and global vision. Written from a place of lived experience, the track carries the weight of struggle but shines with hope and celebration. “This song came from a deeper side of my soul,” Notchman shares. “It’s not just music — it’s a reflection of my journey, the battles I’ve fought, and the joy I feel when people say, ‘I’m proud of you.’” Building on a Legacy The release follows Notchman’s acclaimed “Afro Salad” EP (2024) and builds on a catalog of fan-favorite singles like “This Year,” “Higher,” “Ije,” and “Body & Soul.” With “Udo Ga Achi,” he continues to push Afro-fusion into new spaces, showing why fans — affectionately called Notchmaniacs — see him as a visionary artist shaping the sound of tomorrow. Why Hafrikplay? Hafrikplay is the home of authentic African music. By spotlighting editorial exclusives like “Udo Ga Achi,” the platform empowers artists like Notchman to connect with fans directly while building a global stage for Africa’s most innovative voices. 🎧 Stream “Udo Ga Achi” exclusively here:👉 Listen on Hafrikplay Connect with Notchman Instagram: @iamnotchman Twitter (X): @iam_notchman TikTok: @notchmaniacs Snapchat: @notchmaniacs Facebook: @notchman About Notchman Notchman (Chukwuemeka Agilo) is a Nigerian singer, songwriter, and performer celebrated for his innovative sound, rich storytelling, and genre-bending style he calls Afro Salad. With 17 years in the industry, his music draws influences from legends like Wizkid, Burna Boy, Damian Marley, and Tiwa Savage while staying rooted in his personal journey. From “Higher” EP to his latest masterpiece “Udo Ga Achi,” Notchman continues to inspire fans across Africa and beyond with music full of soul, gratitude, and global vision.
Nkà Ọgwụgwọ: The Art of Healing Festival – Celebrating African Art, Wellness, and Community
In a world that often moves too fast, Nkà Ọgwụgwọ: The Art of Healing Festival is a powerful reminder of the restorative beauty that lies in African culture, creativity, and community. This soulful gathering brought together artists, healers, and visionaries in a shared mission — to heal, uplift, and inspire. Held with a focus on African art, wellness practices, and community connection, the festival created a safe and vibrant space for participants to explore the deep intersection between cultural heritage and personal well-being. A Celebration of Culture and Care From immersive art exhibitions to guided wellness sessions, every part of Nkà Ọgwụgwọ was thoughtfully curated to honor African traditions while embracing contemporary expressions. Participants experienced: Visual and performance art inspired by African heritage. Wellness activities aimed at mental, emotional, and physical healing. Community dialogues addressing cultural preservation and creative empowerment. NAPPYESE’s Vision Behind this transformative experience is NAPPYESE, led by CEO Ese Otobo. With the brand’s ethos — BE. DO. GIVE — the festival aligns perfectly with their mission to uplift the next generation through culture, creativity, and care. Ese shared her gratitude to all who participated, collaborated, and supported the event’s vision, noting that this is just the beginning of a larger movement that redefines healing through African creativity. Access the Festival Media For those who couldn’t attend or want to relive the moments, you can explore the official press release and visual highlights here:🔗 Nkà Ọgwụgwọ Festival Press Release & Media Assets Why This Matters The Art of Healing Festival is more than an event — it’s a call to action for Africans and the diaspora to reconnect with the roots of their creativity and the collective power of community healing. In a time where wellness is becoming a global priority, this festival proves that African traditions hold timeless keys to well-being.
HafrikPlay x Gwariloaded: Partnership to Take Arewa Music & Afrokalugu Global
Two influential platforms unite to elevate Northern Nigeria’s sound and give Arewa creatives the global stage they’ve long deserved. In a bold and culture-forward move, HafrikPlay, Africa’s leading music streaming platform championing indigenous sounds, announces a groundbreaking partnership with Gwariloaded.com.ng, the North’s most trusted digital source for music and entertainment. This alliance marks a pivotal step toward global recognition of Arewa music and its dynamic fusion genre, Afrokalugu. From street cyphers in Kano to digital cyphers in Kaduna, Northern Nigeria’s creative engine has long been undercelebrated—despite housing some of Africa’s most prolific talents. Together, HafrikPlay and Gwariloaded are changing the narrative. “The future of African music is incomplete without Arewa,” says Abolaji Alaka, COO of HafrikPlay. “Afrokalugu is the sound of legacy evolving—where ancient percussion meets modern ambition. This partnership gives Northern creators not just visibility, but viability.” Why Afrokalugu Matters Now Afrokalugu, a rhythmic evolution of Hausa, Kanuri, and Fulani sounds, represents the new cultural wave of Northern Nigeria—a genre rich in storytelling, harmony, and grit. It reflects both the heritage and hustle of a region brimming with talent yet often excluded from mainstream music pipelines. With over 94 million people across the North East and North West zones, and a creative base estimated at 1.3 million youth and professionals, the Arewa region is not a niche—it’s a cultural superpower waiting to be exported. This partnership aims to do just that—responsibly and impactfully. A Blueprint for Discovery, Inclusion, and Monetization Through this partnership, HafrikPlay and Gwariloaded will: Launch an Arewa x Afrokalugu Channel on HafrikPlay featuring curated playlists, artist spotlights, and editorial series Introduce Monthly “Northern Radar” Breakout Features to highlight fast-rising talents across Arewa states Host Pan-Arewa Creator Bootcamps with industry training, mentorship, and marketing support Distribute Artist Royalties Directly, giving creators fairer control over their music and earnings “Gwariloaded was built as a bridge—between the streets, the culture, and the future,” says Musa Shuaibu, COO of Gwariloaded.com.ng. “This partnership with HafrikPlay creates real infrastructure for Northern artists—not just to be heard, but to be valued.” Why This Matters to the Creative Economy HafrikPlay currently boasts over 50,000 active users, a strong editorial engine, and integration with regional discovery partners like RADARCharts and LyricsBaze. Gwariloaded.com.ng reaches over 1 million monthly users across Arewa, influencing both youth culture and entertainment trends. Combined, their reach and relevance position this partnership as a catalyst for socio-creative inclusion. The collaboration addresses three urgent industry gaps: Cultural Equity – Bringing Arewa stories and sounds to national and international audiences Creative Infrastructure – Building consistent systems for artist discovery, branding, and monetization Regional Empowerment – Unlocking the economic potential of Northern Nigeria’s youth through creative technology The Future Is Northern, and It’s Now In a continent bursting with sonic exports, Afrokalugu might just be the next big wave. With strategic collaboration and cultural fidelity, HafrikPlay and Gwariloaded are paving the way—not just for a genre, but for a generation. PRESS CONTACTS HafrikPlay info@hafrikplay.com | www.hafrikplay.com Gwariloaded.com.ng Gwariloaded@gmail.com | www.gwariloaded.com.ng
Telman Drops Soul-Baring Single “On a Low” — Exclusively on Hafrikplay
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Telman Drops Soul-Baring Single “On a Low” — Exclusively on Hafrikplay [Lagos, Nigeria – August 6, 2025] — Rising Nigerian rap talent Telman makes an unforgettable return with his new single “On a Low”, a gripping anthem of sacrifice, struggle, and unshakable ambition — available exclusively on Hafrikplay. With raw vulnerability and lyrical grit, “On a Low” peels back the curtain on Telman’s journey — from growing up in hardship to dealing with loss, pressure, and the fire that keeps him going. The track blends emotionally-charged Drill and melodic rap, with Telman baring his soul over a moody beat that feels both cinematic and street-rooted. “This song is my truth,” Telman shares. “It’s about the quiet battle behind the grind — how I keep pushing, even when there’s nothing left in the tank.” Exclusively premiered on Hafrikplay, this release marks a key milestone in Telman’s evolution as a global rap force. Following the massive success of “Awesome God” and international recognition on platforms like BBC Radio and Cosoro Radio UK, “On a Low” cements his place as a voice for the new wave of African storytellers. Why Hafrikplay? Hafrikplay continues to champion authentic African music with purpose. By spotlighting exclusive editorial features, the platform gives emerging and independent artists like Telman a premium stage to connect with fans across the continent and beyond. Stream “On a Low” exclusively here: 👉 Telman – ON A LOW Connect with Telman: Instagram | TikTok | X: [@telmanmusic] EPK/Press Kit: [http://radarcharts.net/telman] About Telman: Telman is a Nigerian-born rapper, songwriter, and performer known for his introspective lyrics, genre-blending sound, and global outlook. With influences ranging from Stormzy to Nasty C, and a catalog that spans Afro-fusion, Drill, and melodic rap, Telman continues to push the boundaries of African hip-hop. For media inquiries, interviews, or bookings: mailradarcharts@gmail.com mailtheradarman@gmail.com