ALBUM: ODUMODUBLVCK – THE MACHINE IS COMING Your Essential Afrobeats Heatwave: Top 10 Tracks You Need Now Afrobeats is on fire right now, and if you’re looking to stay tapped into the pulse of the culture, your playlist needs these bangers ASAP. This week’s top 10 picks bring a perfect blend of chart-topping hits, emerging anthems, and deep grooves that showcase the genre’s ever-evolving sound – from the streets of Lagos and other hubs in Nigeria to global stages. Whether you’re chilling at home, catching a late-night vibe, or turning up with friends, these tracks will set the mood and keep your energy high. Expect infectious melodies, smooth vocals, and that unmistakable Afrobeats rhythm that moves your soul. Let’s get into the heat you need right now. Read on as we highlight – in detail – the top 10 Afrobeats tracks to add to your playlist this week: Contents Toggle Your Essential Afrobeats Heatwave: Top 10 Tracks You Need NowLEGOLAS – ODUMODUBLVCKPITY THIS BOY – ODUMODUBLVCK & VictonyWHY LOVE – AsakeGet Better – Zlatan & FOLAGiveaway – Ruger & ZlatanBaby (Is It A Crime) – RemaABEG – Erigga & Ajebo HustlersFree Of Charge – Joeboy & OlamideBe There Still – DavidoGUCCI BELT – Erigga LEGOLAS – ODUMODUBLVCK We’re kicking off this week’s playlist with a certified banger – LEGOLAS by Nigeria’s rap juggernaut, Odumodublvck. Coming fresh off his latest project, THE MACHINE IS COMING, this track is a bold reminder of why he’s one of the most exciting and unpredictable forces in the game right now. From the moment it drops, LEGOLAS delivers a surge of energy, fusing street grit, clever wordplay, and cinematic swagger into a sound that’s uniquely Odumodublvck. His signature flow is razor-sharp and confident, gliding over the high-powered beat like a warrior in motion – and that’s fitting, given that the track’s title nods to the legendary archer from Lord of the Rings. But make no mistake, this isn’t fantasy – this is raw, real, and ready to shake speakers. If you love hip-hop laced with cultural references, explosive production, and a whole lot of attitude, LEGOLAS deserves a top spot in your rotation. A standout from an already thrilling project, this one’s built to turn heads and break replay buttons. PITY THIS BOY – ODUMODUBLVCK & Victony Odumodublvck keeps the momentum rolling with PITY THIS BOY, a standout follow-up that dives even deeper into his signature style – a fearless fusion of gritty lyricism, raw emotion, and genre-defying soundscapes. Known for pushing boundaries, the Nigerian rap powerhouse once again shows why he’s not just making noise – he’s redefining what Nigerian rap sounds like in 2025. Joining him on this track is none other than Victony, who brings a contrasting flavor with his smooth, melodic vocals. Where Odumodublvck hits hard with sharp bars and relentless energy, Victony adds an emotional layer, balancing the track with soul and finesse. Their chemistry is undeniable, turning PITY THIS BOY into a sonic tug-of-war between vulnerability and bravado. Musically, the track blends hip-hop, Afrobeats, and alternative elements into a sound that feels both futuristic and grounded. The storytelling is vivid and powerful, touching on struggle, identity, and self-awareness – all while staying catchy enough to loop all day. PITY THIS BOY isn’t just a song – it’s a statement, a collaboration between two of Nigeria’s boldest voices in music today. Add it to your playlist, press play, and prepare to feel every word. WHY LOVE – Asake Coming in hot as the third track on this week’s playlist is none other than Asake, aka Mr. Money, with his brand-new single, WHY LOVE – and trust us, it’s everything. Fresh off the wave of his chart-topping album Lungu Boy, Asake dives back in with a track that’s both emotionally charged and sonically addictive. WHY LOVE sees Asake blending his signature Afrobeats-meets-Amapiano flair with deep, introspective lyrics about heartbreak, loyalty, and the confusion that sometimes comes with love. His delivery? Flawless as ever – rich, raw, and uniquely his. The beat rides with infectious rhythm and soulful undertones, creating a vibe that hits you right in the feels while still making you want to move. Fans are already obsessed, especially with the stunning visuals that accompany the release – featuring cinematic scenes and a striking muse that adds even more depth to the story. Asake proves once again why he’s not just riding the wave – he’s shaping it. WHY LOVE isn’t just another banger from Asake – it’s a bold, beautiful moment that deserves a permanent spot on your playlist. Don’t sleep on this one. Get Better – Zlatan & FOLA Taking the fourth spot on this week’s playlist is a powerful anthem of growth and resilience – Get Better by the ever-electric Zlatan, featuring rising talent FOLA. This is Zlatan’s first drop of 2025, and he’s kicking things off with a message: no matter the struggle, the goal is progress. Known for blending Afrobeats, Street Pop, and motivational grit, Zlatan brings his trademark energy, while FOLA steps in with a fresh and dynamic presence that balances the track perfectly. Their chemistry is undeniable – each verse feels like a push forward, a reminder to keep grinding, keep dreaming, and, well, get better. Produced by the ever-reliable Chechdaproducer, the beat is clean, bouncy, and uplifting – the kind of rhythm that makes you nod your head while reflecting on how far you’ve come. It’s smooth, it’s catchy, and it carries a message that hits home for anyone on a journey. Get Better isn’t just a vibe – it’s a motivational soundtrack for the year ahead. Add it to your playlist, turn the volume up, and let Zlatan and FOLA set the tone for your glow-up. Giveaway – Ruger & Zlatan Next up on the playlist is the highly anticipated Giveaway by Nigerian sensation Ruger, featuring the ever-dynamic Zlatan. This track marks a powerful comeback for Ruger, as it stands tall among the many highlights of his upcoming project, BlownBoy RU. Ruger continues to show why he’s one of the most versatile and exciting artists in the game, blending Afro-dancehall energy with undeniable street swagger. Giveaway is all about high-energy vibes – the kind of track that fills any room with an electric atmosphere. Ruger’s signature style is on full display, but it’s Zlatan’s fiery verse that adds an extra layer of intensity, bringing the chemistry between the two artists to a whole new level. Together, they’ve crafted an anthem that’ll have listeners moving from the first beat to the last. Behind the magic of this track is the incredibly talented Kukbeatz, who delivers an infectious, dancefloor-ready beat that perfectly complements the vocals. With hard-hitting percussion, catchy hooks, and vibrant melodies, the production of Giveaway is nothing short of a sonic masterpiece. Whether you’re already a fan of Ruger or just discovering his sound, Giveaway is a must-add to your playlist. With its flawless delivery and pulsating rhythm, it’s the perfect track to keep the energy high and the party going all week long. Baby (Is It A Crime) – Rema The sixth track on today’s playlist comes from the talented Nigerian singer-songwriter Rema, who is back with a smooth new release titled Baby (Is It a Crime). Following a string of successful tracks, this one adds to Rema’s growing collection of hits that have kept fans on their toes all year. Baby (Is It a Crime) is everything we love about Rema – catchy beats, smooth vocals, and heartfelt lyrics that tug at your emotions. From the moment the song starts, Rema’s signature style is clear: a seamless fusion of Afrobeats with contemporary sounds, creating a vibe that is as captivating as it is fresh. The track flows effortlessly, taking listeners on a melodic journey that highlights Rema’s natural ability to blend different genres and styles into something truly unique. This release is yet another testament to Rema’s artistic evolution and his undeniable influence in the music world. With every track, he proves just how much of a trendsetter he is, continuously pushing the envelope and redefining the Afrobeats sound. Whether you’re already a die-hard fan or just discovering Rema’s magic, Baby (Is It a Crime) is an unmissable track. ABEG – Erigga & Ajebo Hustlers Next up on the playlist is the explosive track ABEG from Nigerian rap heavyweight Erigga, featuring the talented Afro-Pop duo Ajebo Hustlers. This collaboration blends Erigga’s raw, streetwise lyricism with the smooth, melodic delivery of Ajebo Hustlers, creating an anthem that’s impossible to ignore. Known for his unapologetic storytelling, Erigga brings his signature Pidgin rap and street wisdom to the forefront, solidifying his place as one of Nigeria’s most consistent lyricists. He seamlessly weaves everyday experiences into powerful bars that hit home. On the other hand, Ajebo Hustlers, with their unique blend of Afro-Pop and street-conscious melodies, bring a more laid-back vibe to the track, making the hard-hitting message of ABEG even more impactful with their signature style. ABEG stands out from Erigga’s seventh studio album, G.O.A.T., a 13-track project that has already made waves. With guest features from Phyno, Bella Shmurda, Kashcpt, and more, this album is shaping up to be one of the year’s most anticipated releases. Leading up to the album, Erigga dropped two singles – Up Iweka with Phyno and DSC with Kashcpt – that further fueled excitement for this drop. If you’re a fan of street rap, Afro-Pop, or just good music in general, ABEG is a must-listen that will definitely have you hitting repeat. Free Of Charge – Joeboy & Olamide The eighth track on today’s playlist comes from Joeboy, the renowned Afrobeats singer and songwriter, who is back with a sensational new release titled Free Of Charge, featuring none other than the legendary Olamide. This track is a standout from Joeboy’s recently dropped album, Viva Lavida, and it’s sure to become a fan favorite. Joeboy effortlessly blends his signature smooth vocals with Olamide’s dynamic rap delivery, creating a sound that is both catchy and infectious. The vibrant production, combined with relatable lyrics and memorable melodies, makes this track the perfect blend of both artists’ unique styles. Olamide’s energetic verse adds a whole new layer to the track, elevating it and making this collaboration an absolute must-listen. With Free Of Charge, Joeboy continues to solidify his place as one of Afrobeats’ leading voices. Whether you’re a longtime fan or just discovering his music, this track is an essential addition to your playlist – smooth, vibrant, and unforgettable! Be There Still – Davido Next up on the playlist is a groundbreaking track from Nigerian Grammy-nominated and award-winning Afrobeats icon, Davido. His latest single, Be There Still, is setting the music scene on fire and is a standout from his highly anticipated album, 5IVE. This track is a clear testament to why Davido remains one of the most dominant figures in the Afrobeats genre. Be There Still is an exhilarating fusion of pulsating beats, heartfelt lyrics, and Davido’s signature vocal delivery. The track is an immediate fan favorite, further cementing his place at the top of the charts. With its infectious rhythm, captivating storytelling, and seamless blend of contemporary Afrobeats and melodic elements, this song is designed to keep listeners hooked from start to finish. Whether you’re an old fan or just discovering Davido’s music, Be There Still is more than just a song – it’s an experience. From the mesmerizing beats to the powerful storytelling, this track promises to stay on repeat and dominate the airwaves for a long time to come. GUCCI BELT – Erigga We are wrapping up this week’s playlist with a fresh banger from the renowned Nigerian rapper, Erigga. Known for his raw lyricism and street-savvy storytelling, Erigga is back with GUCCI BELT, a track that’s set to take over the airwaves and add some serious fire to your playlist. GUCCI BELT is the second track off his highly anticipated studio album G.O.A.T, a 13-track masterpiece that cements Erigga’s reputation as one of Nigeria’s finest rap voices. The album showcases his signature style – a perfect blend of hard-hitting bars and catchy beats – capturing his authenticity and unwavering commitment to his craft. With its infectious rhythm and relatable lyrics, GUCCI BELT is bound to resonate with fans of real rap and compelling storytelling. Whether you’re vibing to the track’s punchy beat or nodding along to Erigga’s sharp verses, this is a song you’ll keep on repeating. Don’t miss out on this fire release from the King of the South. Stream, share, and enjoy GUCCI BELT – the perfect track to end today’s playlist with a bang! Read More: From the Trenches to the Top Charts: How Afrobeats Street Pop is Taking Over Tags: AfrobeatsAfropopAjebo HustlersAsakeDavidoEriggaFolaJoeboynigeriaODUMODUBLVCKOlamideRemaRugerVictonyZlatan

A single mum identified as Oluchukwu Odo has been taken into custody in Enugu State for allegedly killing her twin sister and daughter in the process. Although our correspondent could not reach the Enugu State Police Command spokesperson, Daniel Ndukwe, as of the time of filing this report, our correspondent gathered on Thursday, that the horrific incident occurred at the family’s home in Umuidenyi, Aji, Enugu Ezike, Igbo Eze North Local Government Area in the wee hours of Wednesday. However, a policeman at the Divisional Police Headquarters in Ogrute, where she is currently being held, told our correspondent on the condition of anonymity because he was not permitted to speak with the media on the matter that they were trying to understand what led to this tragic incident. However, he said, “We will do everything in our power to ensure that justice is served.” Although details leading up to the tragedy are still sketchy, family sources reported that Oluchukwu’s twin sister had visited their parents’ home with her daughter when the incident occurred. Our correspondent learnt that in a fit of rage, Oluchukwu allegedly attacked her sister and daughter with a heavy object, killing them instantly. “I was in my house when I heard the woman screaming and running towards my door. When I opened the door, I saw her covered in blood and begging for help,” a neighbour told PUNCH Media on the condition of anonymity. But Oluchukwu’s rampage did not end there. PUNCH Metro gathered that she then turned on her mother, stabbing her several times in the breast with a kitchen knife. The mother managed to escape and run to a neighbour’s house, screaming for help, the source further revealed. Another source who gave her name as Mama said the swift response of the Aji Neighbourhood Watch group ensured that Oluchukwu was quickly apprehended. “She was chased down and caught in another village, bringing an end to her violent spree,” she said. As she was being taken away, Mama said Oluchukwu started showing signs of remorse, seemingly struggling to come to terms with her actions. “I don’t know what came over me,” she was quoted to have said, her voice laced with regret and confusion. “She is a single mother of a girl and I guess she was stressed and frustrated,” Mama indicated. PUNCH Metro learnt that the police had since taken Oluchukwu into custody, and an investigation into the incident was underway. The community is still reeling from the tragedy, with many left to wonder what could have driven Oluchukwu to commit such a heinous act. As the family mourns the loss of their loved ones, they are also left to pick up the pieces and try to make sense of the senseless violence that has torn their lives apart. Meanwhile, efforts by our correspondent to speak with the state police spokesman, Daniel Ndukwe, were unsuccessful as he did not take his calls or respond to a text message seeking his comment as of the time of filing this report.

Sickle Cell Disease is a genetic blood disorder that affects hemoglobin, causing red blood cells to become rigid and sickle-shaped. These abnormal cells can block blood flow and lead to various complications, including an increased risk of infections. The spleen, which plays a crucial role in filtering bacteria and supporting immune function, is often impaired in individuals with SCD, making them more susceptible to bacterial and viral infections. Understanding these risks and implementing effective prevention strategies is essential for managing the disease and improving quality of life. Why are individuals with SCD more susceptible to infections? One of the most critical complications of SCD is functional asplenia, a condition in which the spleen is either damaged or non-functional. The spleen is responsible for filtering out bacteria, particularly encapsulated bacteria such as Streptococcus pneumoniae, Haemophilus influenzae, and Neisseria meningitidis. When the spleen does not function properly, individuals with SCD are at a higher risk of serious infections, including pneumonia, meningitis, sepsis, and osteomyelitis. Additionally, chronic inflammation, hemolysis (the breakdown of red blood cells), and poor circulation can further weaken the immune system, making it harder for the body to fight infections effectively. Common infections in SCD patients Bacterial infections are a major concern for individuals with SCD. Streptococcus pneumoniae and Haemophilus influenzae can cause pneumonia and meningitis, which are life-threatening without immediate medical intervention. Salmonella and Staphylococcus aureus are common causes of osteomyelitis, while bloodstream infections (sepsis) can develop rapidly and require urgent antibiotic treatment. Viral infections also pose significant risks. Influenza and other respiratory viruses can lead to severe respiratory complications, including acute chest syndrome. Parvovirus B19 can cause aplastic crisis, a condition where red blood cell production temporarily stops, leading to severe anemia. Fungal infections may occur in individuals with SCD who require frequent hospitalization or catheterization, particularly those caused by Candida species. Prevention strategies Given the increased risk of infections, individuals with SCD must adopt multiple prevention strategies, including vaccinations, prophylactic medications, and lifestyle adjustments. Vaccinations play a crucial role in protecting individuals with SCD from life-threatening infections. Essential vaccines include pneumococcal vaccines (PCV13 and PPSV23) to help prevent pneumonia and bloodstream infections, the Haemophilus influenzae type B (Hib) vaccine to prevent meningitis and respiratory infections, and meningococcal vaccines to protect against Neisseria meningitidis, which can cause bacterial meningitis and sepsis. Additionally, an annual influenza vaccine reduces the risk of severe respiratory illness, while the hepatitis B vaccine protects against liver infections that could be worsened by chronic hemolysis. The COVID-19 vaccine is also recommended to prevent severe illness and complications from the virus. To prevent bacterial infections, particularly in young children, daily prophylactic antibiotics such as penicillin are recommended until at least age five to reduce the risk of pneumococcal infections. For individuals allergic to penicillin, alternative antibiotics like erythromycin may be prescribed. Recognising the early signs of infection is crucial for timely medical intervention. Parents, caregivers, and individuals with SCD should be vigilant for symptoms such as fever, chills or shaking, difficulty breathing, severe fatigue or weakness, and bone or joint pain. Any fever over 101°F (38.3°C) requires immediate medical attention, as infections can progress rapidly in individuals with SCD. Maintaining adequate hydration and proper nutrition also plays a vital role in strengthening the immune system. Drinking sufficient fluids helps prevent dehydration, which can trigger pain crises and worsen overall health. A well-balanced diet rich in vitamins and minerals, particularly iron (if not contraindicated), vitamin D, and folic acid, supports red blood cell production and immune function. Practising good hygiene reduces the risk of infections. Frequent handwashing with soap and water, avoiding close contact with sick individuals, wearing masks in crowded or high-risk environments, and keeping wounds clean and covered are all essential habits to adopt. Regular medical check-ups are necessary for monitoring health and preventing complications. Routine visits with a hematologist or primary care provider should include blood tests to assess hemoglobin levels and organ function, liver and kidney function tests to detect early signs of organ damage, and chest X-rays or lung function tests to monitor for acute chest syndrome or pneumonia. Certain environmental and lifestyle factors can increase the risk of infections and complications. It is important to avoid extreme temperatures, as cold weather can trigger pain crises and infections, while excessive heat can cause dehydration. Limiting exposure to sick individuals, especially in crowded or poorly ventilated areas, is also crucial. Proper wound care is essential, as any cuts, scrapes, or sores should be cleaned and monitored to prevent infections. Conclusion Individuals with SCD face a significantly higher risk of infections due to compromised immune function and spleen dysfunction. However, through proactive prevention strategies such as vaccinations, prophylactic antibiotics, early medical intervention, good hygiene, and proper nutrition, the risk of severe infections can be significantly reduced. Healthcare providers, caregivers, and individuals with SCD must work together to ensure these strategies are effectively implemented, improving overall health outcomes and quality of life. By staying informed and vigilant, those with SCD can better manage their condition and reduce their vulnerability to infections. Until next time. If you would like to get in touch with me about Sickle cell, do so, via my email address; [email protected].  And do checkout my blog:     https://www.dailylivingwithsicklecell.com/    My book on Sickle Cell – HOW TO LIVE WITH SICKLE CELL and my other books are available for purchase on www.amazon.com.