Hafrikplay Partners with Creative Bloc Carnival 2025 as Media & Cultural Partner
Lagos, Nigeria – September 30, 2025 — Hafrikplay, Africa’s creator-first music streaming and distribution platform, has announced an official partnership with the Creative Bloc Carnival 2025 as the Media and Cultural Partner, reinforcing its commitment to elevating African creativity across music, art, and culture. The Creative Bloc Carnival, now in its 3rd edition, has become one of Lagos’ most vibrant festivals — a cultural playground where music, fashion, gaming, art, food, and lifestyle collide. This year’s edition will take place on Saturday, October 4, 2025, at the SystemSpecs Car Park, Oniru, Lagos, powered by some of Nigeria’s most exciting brands and creative forces. Hafrikplay’s Role: More Than Just Music As part of this partnership, Hafrikplay will: Curate the Official Creative Bloc Carnival Playlist, spotlighting both emerging and established artists from its ecosystem. Drive cross-platform promotion to amplify the event across streaming, digital media, and cultural communities. Sponsor an interactive trivia game at the carnival, rewarding fans and keeping audiences engaged in fun, creative ways. Document and highlight the event across Hafrikplay’s channels to give artists and creatives extended visibility beyond the festival day. This collaboration underscores Hafrikplay’s mission of empowering African creatives by providing platforms for discovery, storytelling, and long-term growth. From the Voices of the Leaders Omobosola Karimat Alaka, CEO & Co-Founder of Hafrikplay, shared: “At Hafrikplay, we believe creativity thrives when culture and community meet. Partnering with Creative Bloc Carnival is more than sponsorship — it’s about building spaces where African artists, designers, gamers, and storytellers can shine together. We’re not just soundtracking the carnival; we’re amplifying the voices of a generation.” JP Idama, Convener of Creative Bloc Carnival, added: “Creative Bloc has always been about breaking boundaries and giving every creative discipline a stage. Teaming up with Hafrikplay takes this vision further — bridging media, music, and culture to ensure that the talent we showcase doesn’t just perform, but is seen, heard, and remembered long after the carnival.” A Cultural Milestone With official sponsors including Peak, Sosa, Bigi, Confetti London, Chowlove, Mavin Records, Africa Comicade, and The Artist Commune, the 2025 edition promises to be the biggest yet. By adding Hafrikplay’s media and cultural influence to the mix, the festival will offer an immersive experience that blends sound, style, and storytelling in a way that resonates across Africa’s booming creative economy. Press & Media Inquiries Hafrikplay info@hafrikplay.com | hafrikplay@gmail.com Instagram: @hafrikplay Creative Bloc Carnival creativesbloc@gmail.com Instagram: @creativesbloc_carnival
Hafrikplay Partners with Dymond Worldwide Music as Official Media Partner for Wahala Fest 2025
Lagos, Nigeria – October 3, 2025 – This October, Lagos will once again take center stage in Africa’s creative calendar as Hafrikplay, the continent’s leading creator-first music streaming and distribution platform, partners with Dymond Music Worldwide as the Official Media Partner for Wahala Fest 2025 — an experience dedicated to celebrating African sound, talent, and cultural expression. Taking place on Saturday, October 11, 2025, at Bature Brewery, Lagos, Wahala Fest promises an electrifying fusion of music, art, and lifestyle — a showcase of the continent’s next generation of stars, performers, and visionaries. Music Meets Culture As the Media Partner, Hafrikplay will bring a new dimension to the festival experience by fusing digital storytelling with live performance. Through this collaboration, Hafrikplay will: •Curate the Official Wahala Fest 2025 Playlist, featuring performing artists and rising African creatives. •Deliver cross-platform promotion through its 100,000+ active-user ecosystem. •Sponsor trivia games and fan activations, rewarding attendees with Hafrikplay vouchers and exclusive giveaways. •Provide comprehensive event documentation and post-show media coverage across Hafrikplay’s app, website, and blog partners network. The partnership aims to amplify the voices of independent artists, empower creators, and give audiences a deeper connection to Africa’s evolving cultural landscape. Voices from the Partners Omobosola Karimat Alaka, CEO & Co-Founder of Hafrikplay, expressed excitement about the partnership: “Wahala Fest represents everything Hafrikplay believes in — creativity, connection, and culture. Partnering with Dymond Music Worldwide allows us to celebrate not just performances, but the stories and spirit of African artistry. We’re thrilled to help share this energy with audiences across the continent.” Anastasia Kostopoulos, CEO of Dymond Worldwide Music and convener of Wahala Fest, added: “Our mission with Wahala Fest has always been to give artists a global stage while keeping the essence of African creativity alive. Hafrikplay’s dedication to supporting independent talent aligns perfectly with that vision. Together, we’re not just hosting an event — we’re building a movement.” About Wahala Fest Founded and powered by Dymond Worldwide Music, Wahala Fest is one of Nigeria’s fastest-growing cultural festivals, spotlighting diverse African genres — from Afrobeats and hip-hop to street pop, dancehall, and alternative music. Each edition blends music, art, and lifestyle, creating an open, immersive environment for creatives and fans alike. About Hafrikplay Hafrikplay is a Pan-African music streaming and distribution platform redefining discovery for underground and independent artists. With over 100,000 active users and partnerships with brands like MTN, MoMo, PalmPay, and Kuda, Hafrikplay is leading Africa’s creator economy by ensuring artists are visible, valued, and fairly compensated. Through strategic media collaborations and innovative campaigns, Hafrikplay connects Africa’s cultural talent with global audiences — shaping the continent’s creative future. Event Details Date: Saturday, October 11, 2025 Venue: Bature Brewery, Lagos Time: 4PM till late Experience the heartbeat of African creativity — where rhythm meets revolution. Media & Press Contacts: Hafrikplay info@hafrikplay.com | hafrikplay@gmail.com Instagram: @hafrikplay Dymond Music Worldwide / Wahala Fest dymondworldwidemusic@gmail.com Instagram: @dymondworldwidemusic Get ready for the chaos, the culture, and the creativity. #WahalaFest2025 #Hafrikplay #DymondWorldwideMusic #WeAreTheCreatives
Starlife: The Rise of Afrobeats’ Next Soulful Storyteller
Introduction – $tarlife, born Victor Starlife, is an emerging Afrobeats artist dedicated to blending soulful melodies, vibrant rhythms, and authentic lifestyle stories. His unique sound connects Nigeria’s cultural roots directly to the global stage. About Me I am $tarlife, an artist focused on Afrobeat. I blend the warmth of Nigerian rhythms with a modern, global feel, using soulful melodies and vibrant grooves to tell authentic stories of love, life, and self-discovery. Musical Journey Born and raised in Abuja, my musical journey began at home; my father was a choir master, and church harmonies shaped my first taste of rhythm. As a teenager, I started performing and songwriting, blending my passion for soulful hooks with the vibrant pulse of Afrobeats. Influenced by icons like Wizkid and Burna Boy, I set out to craft a sound that is both deeply rooted and globally resonant. Signature Style $tarlife’s signature style is a fusion of smooth Afrobeats grooves, soulful melodies, and heartfelt lyrics. My music blends the warmth of Nigerian rhythms with modern global sounds, creating tracks that make people dance while still telling authentic stories of love, life, and self-discovery. Notable Achievements My talent was recognized early: in high school, I earned Best Artist for my musical talent and stage presence, and was also recognized as Best Fashion Designer. These early accolades showcase the versatility and passion that now drive my career as one of Afrobeats’ emerging voices. I also have a single, “Grind,” with over 15,000 plays on Spotify. Existing Projects and Future Plans for My Brand My existing discography includes the single “Grind” (with over 15k streams). I am currently gearing up for my debut EP, “SUPERNOVA.” Beyond the EP, my future plans include: Releasing visually striking music videos and live sessions. Collaborating with both established and emerging Afrobeats artists. Taking my music international, performing at festivals and tours across Africa and beyond. Influences and Inspirations I draw deep inspiration from my Nigerian roots and the global Afrobeats movement. My father, a choir master, gave me an early foundation in melody and harmony. Artists like Wizkid and Burna Boy shaped my vision, showing me how to blend authentic African rhythms with modern sounds that resonate worldwide. Discography My current discography includes the single “Grind,” which has garnered over 15,000 plays on Spotify. Upcoming Projects I am gearing up for the highly anticipated release of my debut EP, “SUPERNOVA.” This project fuses irresistible Afrobeats grooves with soulful melodies and heartfelt storytelling, showcasing my versatility through love-inspired anthems, vibrant dance tracks, and introspective songs. Connect With Me Join me on this artistic journey! Instagram: @starlifegram TikTok: @starlifexo Email: starlifexo@gmail.com Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/share/17XDQ1sjqm/?mibextid=wwXIfr Twitter: https://x.com/starlifeszn?s=21&t=3AqlHUvO6oDbqSkK_ePIBw Website (Spotify link): https://open.spotify.com/artist/5JGYjfAnlx7TqjA24VGQ7D?si=QB33oATSRAuixHQn72Bodg Listen HERE
Underground to Unstoppable: BTEN’s ‘Omo Ologo’ Concert Ignites Sagamu
Early Beginnings: Abeokuta’s Musical Prodigy Babatunde Joseph Omolaja, better known as BTEN, embodies the classic rise of an underground talent turned hometown star. The Afro-fusion artist’s journey began over a decade ago in Abeokuta, where he started singing at the tender age of 10. Those early years saw BTEN honing his craft independently, blending hip-hop and R&B influences into what he calls a “Hyper Realistic” sound uniquely his own. During his university days at Olabisi Onabanjo University in Ogun State, BTEN was already recording music and had released three projects (the latest being The Beast In Me in 2022). Through it all, he remained unsigned to any major label, relying on a grassroots following built through local shows and authentic engagement with his community. This organic, community-driven growth has been key to BTEN’s rise , from open-mic events in Abeokuta to headlining concerts in Ogun State, marking him as one of the region’s fastest-rising stars poised for the spotlight. Independence Day in Sagamu: A Concert for the Community BTEN (center, in white) and fellow performers energize the Sagamu crowd with a dynamic stage show. Sagamu’s Akarigbo Hall was packed wall-to-wall on the night of October 1, 2025, as fans poured in to witness their hometown hero live in concert. Billed as the “Omo Ologo” concert – a name meaning “glorious child” in Yoruba – the event doubled as a celebration of Nigeria’s Independence Day and a triumphant homecoming for BTEN. Over a thousand fans filled the venue, waving Nigerian flags and chanting BTEN’s name in anticipation of a night to remember. When the lights dimmed and the first beat dropped, the atmosphere became electric: BTEN burst onto the stage to deafening cheers, delivering a high-energy performance and belting out hit after hit to the delight of the crowd. The setlist spanned his genre-blending catalog, from soulful R&B ballads to bass-thumping Afrobeats, each song punctuated by BTEN’s charismatic stage presence and heartfelt anecdotes about his journey. It wasn’t just a concert – it felt like a cultural moment for Sagamu, uniting people across generations in pride for one of their own. Highlights of the “Omo Ologo” Concert: A Sold-Out Crowd: Over 1,000 enthusiastic fans packed into Akarigbo Hall, turning the venue into a sea of lights and energy as Sagamu celebrated Nigeria’s 65th Independence Day with BTEN. Star-Studded Guest Performers: BTEN was joined by a lineup of fellow rising stars. Guest artists like Mr Bee and T Famous, along with some of Ogun State’s finest creatives, hit the stage to support the homegrown talent. Their surprise appearances and collab performances amplified the night’s excitement and sense of unity. Interactive Fan Experiences: This concert was as much about the fans as the artist. Attendees enjoyed a glamorous red carpet pre-show, posed for photos, and participated in fun trivia games that tested their knowledge of BTEN’s lyrics and Nigerian music culture. Laughter and cheers filled the hall even before the main act, setting a festive mood. BTEN’s Electrifying Performance: The star of the show delivered in style. Backed by a live band and energetic dancers, BTEN gave an electrifying performance, mixing his well-known tracks with fresh unreleased material. He belted out song after song with palpable passion, often pausing to let the audience sing the choruses back to him. In one emotional moment, BTEN thanked the crowd for believing in him since his humble beginnings, bringing many in the audience to happy tears. Community Vibes & Unity: The entire night felt like a community block party elevated to concert scale. Friends, family, and even local dignitaries were spotted in the crowd. Whether it was youths dancing or elders nodding along, everyone was swept up in the music. The concert truly became “a celebration of music, entertainment, and community,” reminding all in attendance of “the power of talent and perseverance” when an artist stays true to his roots. Hafrikplay’s Amplified Support & Documentary Release Behind the scenes, BTEN’s independent success has been amplified by forward-thinking platforms that believe in grassroots talent. Hafrikplay, a pan-African music streaming startup, served as the official sponsor of the “Omo Ologo” concert – and they didn’t stop at just writing a check. “At Hafrikplay, we’re more than sponsors , we’re curating the official playlist, powering trivia games, producing a documentary, and covering the red carpet,” the company COO, Abolaji Talib Alaka explained in the lead-up to the show. Indeed, Hafrikplay’s team was on-ground all evening, ensuring fans stayed engaged and every magical moment was captured on camera. Working alongside local media partner The Crave Pod on the red carpet, they helped shine a spotlight on not only BTEN but also the vibrant Sagamu creative scene. “Because artists like BTEN deserve to be seen, supported, and celebrated,” Hafrikplay noted, underscoring its mission to uplift emerging African acts. This hands-on approach aligns perfectly with Hafrikplay’s ethos as a platform “created to give upcoming artists the spotlight they deserve”– BTEN being a prime example. The result of this partnership is a full concert documentary that brings the “Omo Ologo” experience to the screen. Filmed in partnership with production house MillionDollar Ideas Ltd and edited to encapsulate the night’s energy, the documentary offers an intimate look at BTEN’s journey and the Sagamu community that nurtured his rise. From backstage preparations and candid fan interviews to the on-stage fireworks, viewers get to relive every highlight. The documentary is now available exclusively on HafrikTV, Hafrikplay’s new video streaming platform, allowing a wider audience to feel the magic of that Independence Day concert. For BTEN, this is yet another milestone – a chance for his story to inspire others beyond the concert hall. As BTEN’s momentum continues to build, one thing is clear: his bond with his home state remains at the heart of his artistry. In an era when many chase quick fame, BTEN’s steady, community-rooted climb is a refreshing reminder of the power of authenticity and local support. Ogun State has a new musical ambassador, and his name is BTEN, a once-underground kid from
Hafrikplay Powers the Soundtrack of Fashion at the Open Mall Fashion Show 2025
Lagos, Nigeria – September 23, 2025 – The worlds of music and fashion will collide in Lagos this September as Hafrikplay, Africa’s creator-first music streaming and distribution platform, partners with Starr & Glenn to deliver the Open Mall Fashion Show (OMF) 2025. The event, powered by Foremade Nigeria, will take place on Saturday, 27th September 2025, at the iconic Lagos City Mall, Onikan. Billed as an open cultural experience for fashion enthusiasts and music lovers, the Open Mall Fashion Show is one of the most anticipated creative showcases of the year. With 12 elite Nigerian designers gracing the runway, including award-winning fashion houses Azach, De ExquisiteMo Luxe, and House of Triniks, the event promises to redefine the intersection of style, sound, and storytelling. Hafrikplay’s Involvement: Music as the Pulse of Fashion As the Official Music Partner, Hafrikplay will infuse the event with vibrant African rhythms and spotlight the next generation of music stars. The runway segments will be underscored by live Afrobeat performances curated by Hafrikplay, ensuring every designer showcase is elevated by the perfect soundtrack. In addition, Hafrikplay will extend its cultural influence into the exhibition area, collaborating with the Muson Music School live band to provide a soulful, interactive experience for attendees exploring fashion displays and lifestyle exhibitions. This partnership aligns seamlessly with Hafrikplay’s mission to empower independent African creatives by bridging music and culture. Through the event, emerging and established artists in Hafrikplay’s ecosystem will gain valuable exposure to fashion audiences, media partners, and brand stakeholders. “Hafrikplay is more than just a streaming and distribution platform; it is a cultural hub where music, fashion, and creativity intersect. Our involvement in the Open Mall Fashion Show is a testament to our commitment to creating meaningful spaces where African creatives can thrive and tell their stories to the world.” — Abolaji Alaka, COO of Hafrikplay Fashion Meets Technology This year’s Open Mall Fashion Show is powered by Foremade Nigeria, a new-age digital sales platform built for SMEs and users alike. By combining Foremade’s vision of empowering small businesses with Hafrikplay’s artist-first approach to music, OMF 2025 represents a bold step in showcasing how technology, commerce, and creativity can come together to uplift African industries. The event will utilize both the ground floor and first floor of Lagos City Mall. The ground floor runway stage will host designer showcases and music performances, while the upper floor exhibition area will feature tables for SMEs, lifestyle brands, and fashion innovators to connect with the public. Partners & Media Visibility The Open Mall Fashion Show 2025 is produced by Starr & Glenn and supported by an impressive lineup of partners, including Hafrikplay, AIT, SpiceTV, and AFD Magazine. This collaboration guarantees wide media coverage across television, fashion media, print, and digital platforms. Hafrikplay will further amplify this visibility by curating exclusive OMF playlists, streaming artist highlights, and spotlighting designers through its app and blog — giving the event an afterlife that extends beyond a single day. “The Open Mall Fashion Show is more than a runway; it is a cultural statement. We are proud to partner with Hafrikplay and Foremade Nigeria to deliver an experience where African fashion, music, and commerce meet to inspire the next generation.” — Akadidi Harrison, CEO & Founder of Starr & Glenn A Cultural Convergence By uniting music, fashion, and digital media, the Open Mall Fashion Show 2025 is more than just an event — it is a cultural statement. For Hafrikplay, the partnership underscores its role as a bridge-builder between industries, positioning African music at the heart of fashion’s creative expression. As Lagos prepares to welcome thousands of fashion lovers, shoppers, and music enthusiasts to the City Mall on September 27, Hafrikplay stands ready to deliver the soundtrack of Africa’s cultural renaissance. For Press Inquiries: Hafrikplay: hafrikplay@gmail.com| info@hafrikplay.com Starr & Glenn: starrandglenn@gmail.com