Entertainment
Interesting Facts And Records Set On Shazam As It Turns 20 Years
Shazam turned 20 yesterday, and as of this week, it has officially surpassed 70 billion song recognitions.
A mainstay in popular culture, the platform has changed the way people engage with music by making song identification accessible to everyone. For more than 225 million global monthly users, to “Shazam” is to discover something new.
To mark the occasion, Shazam invites fans to take a trip down memory lane with a special playlist comprised of the most Shazamed song of each calendar year for the past 20 years. Featuring everything from Train’s “Hey, Soul Sister” to Sia’s “Cheap Thrills,” the playlist is a true reflection of the music fans across the globe actively searched for over the past two decades. Listen now exclusively on Apple Music.
Over the years, Shazam’s global charts have played a crucial role in helping to identify breaking new talent like Masked Wolf, who was one of Shazam’s 5 Artists to Watch in 2021 and ended up having the most Shazamed track globally that year with “Astronaut In The Ocean.”
“The fact that people all over the world took time out of their day to pull out their phone and Shazam my songs is a huge honour for me as an artist,” said Masked Wolf. “You know you’ve got something special if you see the Shazam stats moving.”
Shazam’s charts have also become a barometer for unexpected pop culture moments. Kate Bush’s 1985 song “Running Up That Hill” being featured in “Stranger Things” led to an all-time peak in Shazams of the singer, and the track took No. 1 on the Shazam Global Top 200 for 10 days. It ended up reaching the top of 25 national charts — more than any other song in 2022.
Keeping its finger on the pulse of music, Shazam has also played a key role in bringing local artists to a global audience. The longest-running global No. 1 song of 2021 was “Love Nwantiti [Remix]” by Nigerian artist CKay, which became the second song to ever surpass one million Shazams in a week.
“Shazam has played an impactful role in my career,” said CKay. “It allowed millions of people all over the world to discover me and my unique Nigerian sound. It made me a global sensation even before I started to perform all over the world. The story of CKay cannot be told without Shazam connecting me to the world.”
With its continued commitment to innovation over the past two decades, Shazam is pioneering new ways to bring fans closer to the music and artists they love with new tools like the concert discovery feature, which spotlights concert information and tickets on sale for shows nearby, simply by Shazaming a song, or by searching for it in the Shazam app or website.
While Shazam remains focused on the future of music discovery, today’s anniversary offers an opportunity to look back at the notable moments and milestones that make up its two-decade history.
Important Dates
- August 2002: Shazam launches as a text message service based in the UK. At the time, users could identify songs by dialing “2580” on their phone and holding it up as a song played. They were then sent an SMS message telling them the song title and the name of the artist.
- July 2008: Shazam launches on the brand-new App Store. Shazam later launched its Android version in October 2008.
- April 2015: Shazam becomes available on the first Apple Watch.
- September 2018: Shazam joins the Apple family.
- June 2021: Shazam surpasses 1 billion Shazams per month.
- May 2022: Shazam surpasses 2 billion lifetime installs.
- August 2022: Shazam celebrates 20 years of music discovery and hits 70 billion all-time Shazams.
Notable Firsts
- First-ever Shazamed song: “Jeepster” by T. Rex (April 19, 2002)1
- First Shazamed song on the iOS app: “How Am I Different” by Aimee Mann (July 10, 2008)
- First track to reach 1,000 Shazams: “Cleanin’ Out My Closet” by Eminem (September 2002)
- First track to reach one million Shazams: “TiK ToK” by Ke$ha (February 2010)
- First track to reach 10 million Shazams: “Somebody That I Used to Know” by Gotye feat. Kimbra (December 2012)
- First track to reach 20 million Shazams: “Prayer In C (Robin Schulz Radio Edit)” by Lilly Wood & The Prick and Robin Schulz (October 2015)
- First artist to hit 1 million Shazams: Lil Wayne (February 2009)
- First artist to hit 10 million Shazams: Lil Wayne (June 2011)
- First artist to hit 100 million Shazams: David Guetta (May 2015)
Fastest Tracks to Accumulate Shazams
- Fastest track to reach 1 million Shazams: “Butter” by BTS (nine days)
- Fastest track to reach 10 million Shazams: “Shape of You” by Ed Sheeran (87 days)
- Fastest track to reach 20 million Shazams: “Dance Monkey” by Tones And I (219 days)
Most Shazamed of All Time
- Drake is the most Shazamed artist of all time with over 350 million Shazams across songs the artist has led or featured on. “One Dance” is Drake’s most popular track at over 17 million Shazams.
- “Dance Monkey” by Tones And I is the most Shazamed song ever with over 41 million Shazams.
- “Crazy” by Gnarls Barkley was the most Shazamed song using the “2580” text service.
Top Shazamed Songs by Genre
- Top Hip-Hop/Rap: “Can’t Hold Us” by Macklemore and Ryan Lewis feat. Ray Dalton
- Top Dance: “Prayer In C (Robin Schulz Radio Edit)” by Lilly Wood & The Prick and Robin Schulz
- Top R&B/Soul: “All of Me” by John Legend
- Top Latin: “Mi Gente” by J Balvin and Willy William
- Top Pop: “Let Her Go” by Passenger
- Top Alternative: “Dance Monkey” by Tones And I
- Top Singer/Songwriter: “Take Me to Church” by Hozier
Entertainment
DJ Lord OTB To Feature In Transit Live’s House Music Experience At Sandbox Beach Club
Award-winning Ghanaian DJ, DJ Lord OTB, is set to make his debut headline at a house music event dubbed ‘Transit Live’ on February 1st, 2025. The highly anticipated event will take place at the scenic Sandbox Beach Club, where DJ Lord OTB will join an elite lineup of international DJs for the second edition of Transit Live.
An amazing set with a strict house music feel is guaranteed by DJ Lord OTB, who is renowned for his impeccable mixes and ability to cut across genres. With a sunset-to-sunrise journey of music, wellness, and community, this edition of Transit Live promises to further enhance the experience following the inaugural event’s overwhelming success.
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What’s in Store at Transit Live:
- Yoga, Fitness & Wellness Activities: Start the night with calming and energizing sessions.
- Rejuvenating Massages: Stay refreshed throughout the event with all-night massage services.
- Live Percussion: Enjoy a cultural touch with performances from the traditional band, The Local Dimension.
- Curated DJ Sets: International and local DJs spinning the best in house music.
- Face & Body Art: Get creative and complete your festival look.
- Bonfire on the Beach: Gather around for warmth, vibes, and connection.
- A Welcoming Environment: A safe space for all to enjoy the ancestral healing power of music and dance.
- Special Surprises: Expect the unexpected as Transit Live delivers unique moments.
Whether you’re a lover of house music, a wellness enthusiast, or someone looking for a transformative experience, Transit Live is the place to be.
Date: February 1st, 2025
Venue: Sandbox Beach Club, Accra
Secure your tickets and come ready to find your flow at this one-of-a-kind event: https://tix.africa/
Entertainment
I’m Fully Focused On My Music This Year” – Empress Ghadafi
Entertainment
Mary Owusu Releases New Song Dubbed “Divine Selection”
Gospel sensation Mary Owusu makes a triumphant return to the music scene with her latest single, “Divine Selection”.
After a brief hiatus, during which she received a prestigious VGMA 2016 nomination for Best Gospel Song, Mary Owusu is back with a spirit-filled masterpiece that’s generating buzz among music lovers.
Produced by the talented Shar, “Divine Selection” is a must-listen.
Check it out below
Entertainment
Inpha Reblitive Joins Reggae Legends At 2024 Reggae Sting Concert
Rising Jamaican artist Inpha Reblitive is set to perform at the prestigious 2024 Reggae Sting Concert, sharing the stage with some of the biggest names in Reggae and Dancehall, including Tommy Lee, Jamal, Jamiel, Yaksta, Turbulance, and more. This marks a significant milestone in Inpha’s career, as he takes the stage at one of the most iconic events in Jamaican music history.
Reggae Sting, often referred to as “the greatest one-night Reggae and Dancehall show on earth,” has been a cultural cornerstone since its founding in 1984 by Isaiah Laing under Supreme Promotions. Established during a time when Dancehall lacked a major stage in Jamaica, Laing’s vision was to create an event that could unite communities and showcase the heartbeat of Jamaica’s cultural identity through music. Over the years, the event has launched the careers of countless superstars, including Shabba Ranks, Buju Banton, Vybz Kartel, Bounty Killer, and Sizzla, while also hosting international icons such as Busta Rhymes and Maxi Priest.
For Inpha Reblitive, the opportunity to perform on the Sting stage alongside a lineup of Reggae legends is a testament to his rising status in the industry. Known for his innovative fusion of Dancehall and modern influences, Inpha is rapidly becoming a voice for a new generation of Jamaican artists. Fans attending Reggae Sting 2024 can expect a performance that highlights his creativity, passion, and commitment to pushing the boundaries of the genre.
This year’s event marks a return to its legendary home at Jamworld in Portmore, a venue synonymous with the golden moments of Reggae Sting’s storied history. After undergoing renovations, Jamworld is once again ready to welcome thousands of music fans to experience the unmatched energy and cultural vibrancy of Sting.
As Reggae Sting prepares for the future, the event is undergoing an exciting transformation. The Sting team has also embraced technology, introducing a revamped ticketing platform, a new online music distribution division, and a dedicated streaming network to enhance the experience for fans around the world.
Inpha Reblitive’s performance at Reggae Sting 2024 is set to be a highlight of the event, further cementing the show’s reputation as a launchpad for rising stars and a celebration of Jamaica’s unparalleled musical heritage.
Entertainment
Rising Star Kaset Takes Dancehall By Storm
In the vibrant world of dancehall music, a new star is shining bright. Meet Kaset,Ghanaian sensation who’s taking the industry by storm with her unique sound and captivating stage presence.
Born and raised in Ghana, Kaset grew up surrounded by the rhythms and beats of dancehall. She began writing her own lyrics and experimenting with music production in Ghana. After honing her craft and performing at local shows, Kaset released her debut single “Chosen One” in 2023, which quickly gained traction on social media and music streaming platforms.
Kaset’s music is a fusion of traditional dancehall with modern electronic and hip-hop elements. Her lyrics often focus on themes of empowerment, self-love, and social justice. With her powerful vocals and energetic live performances, Kaset is quickly becoming a fan favorite among dancehall enthusiasts.
In addition to her music, Kaset is also making waves with her striking visuals and bold fashion sense. Her music videos and social media posts often feature vibrant colors, eclectic styles, and a blend of Jamaican and African cultural influences.
Kaset is poised to take the dancehall world by storm. Keep an eye out for this rising star, as she’s sure to ignite the music scene with her unique talent and infectious energy.
Stream Kaset songs here:
https://www.boomplay.com/share/music/130933727?srModel=COPYLINK&srList=IOS
Entertainment
Amos K Returns With The 2nd Chapter of His Groundbreaking EP Series
That’s the mantra versatile Ghanaian Rapper and Producer, Amos K is standing on as he officially releases the second instalment of his successful extended play (EP), “Tell Them, We Are Coming.”
“Tell Them, We Are Coming 2” just like the first one is a five-song project that highlights grim persistence, rebellion against tradition, and breaking of convention, a recurring theme in Amos K’s projects. On the opening track, the skilled rapper returns from the underworld as a “Zombie” – a song where he talks about putting in the work and letting rationality prevail over emotions. There’s no fear in his voice, he raps boldly in two verses disbanded by a melodious hook.
Any rapper eyeing the Best Rap Song of the Year award must buckle up because they have nothing on track two of the project. Crafty word smith Nii Black joins Amos K on “Nothing On Me” as they deliver the best rap song of the year.
The rappity-rap record produced by Kel Beats and 85 Savage is pure flames and hardcore rap for over three minutes. Legend has it that the “booth turned into a furnace” during the recording session. Ride on into the middle track as “Stallion” featuring S.I.N District duo Boi Mack and Spoonz follows. The Hip-Hop track, produced by Bxndit, is a three-verse open mic session where all three artistes take turns to spaz and tell personal stories of pain, struggles, and eventual triumphs.
On “Tell Them, We Are Coming 2” there is “Bad Boy 2.” The themes of rebellion, unconventional, and preaching against conformist behaviors heighten in the second edition of the self-produced record. Amos K taps Yung Demi, Nana OT, and Dess, who all bring different perspectives of being a “Bad Boy.” That hook could not be changed.
But does the rapper regret being a “Bad Boy,” find out on the final track as he sends a reflective letter to his younger self on “13-Year-Old-Me.” The song was produced by the rapper and Kel Beats. Amos K has refined his craft over the years, and “Tell Them, We Are Coming 2” presents a more mature Amos K with a better perspective and sound.
All the songs were mastered by Emunah except track 3, which was mastered by Dab Beatz.
The versatile Amos K mixed every song on the EP. listen here
Entertainment
Rison Jeneral And Strongman Bring The Heat On Christmas Banger “Chilling Sorr”
Ghanaian Afrobeat sensation Rison Jeneral has teamed up with rapper Strongman on a sizzling hot Christmas banger titled ‘Chilling Sorr’.
The highly anticipated collaboration is set to take the music scene by storm, and it’s already generating a lot of buzz.
The song, which masterfully blends the energetic vibes of Afrobeat with the infectious rhythms of Amapiano, is a game-changer.
Rison Jeneral’s smooth vocals and Strongman’s rap lyrics come together in perfect harmony, creating a truly unforgettable listening experience.
Rison Jeneral, who has been making waves in the music industry, has already racked up an impressive list of accolades. In 2022, he took home three prestigious awards at the Wassaman Entertainment and Business Awards, including:
Best Collaboration of the Year
Best Music Video of the Year
Best Afropop Song of the Year
Strongman, on the other hand, is currently riding high on the success of his recent wins at the TGMA 2024, where he was crowned the Best Rapper of the Year. This latest collaboration with Rision Jeneral is sure to take over the industry as the number one song.
With ‘Chilling Sorr’, Rison Jeneral and Strongman are set to bring the heat this Christmas season. Mark your calendars, as the song is set to be officially released on December 13th.
Entertainment
SM Militant (Natty Lee & Joint 77) Fire Shots At Shatta Wale On Bra Desmond’s New Track
The Ghanaian music scene is abuzz with the latest release from Bra Desmond, featuring SM Militants, Natty Lee and Joint 77. The song, which has been making waves online, has sparked controversy due to some perceived jabs thrown at dancehall king, Shatta Wale.
In the song, Natty Lee and Joint 77, formerly members of Shatta Wale’s SM Militants group, appear to take subtle shots at their former boss. The lyrics, which have been widely interpreted as a diss, have set tongues wagging among music fans.
While neither Natty Lee nor Joint 77 has publicly confirmed the lyrics are aimed at Shatta Wale, the timing and content of the song have led many to speculate about a possible beef between the parties involved.
Bra Desmond’s song has undoubtedly sparked a lively debate in the Ghanaian music industry, with fans eagerly awaiting a response from Shatta Wale.
Check the song below
Entertainment
The Basketball Africa League Is Coming To Ghana!
Entertainment
Kobby Brown Set To Release Global Hit “Shock” Featuring Ahenfo
Talented Ghanaian recording and performing artiste, Kobby Brown, is gearing up to captivate music enthusiasts with her latest creation – a fusion of highlife titled ‘Shock’ on December 5th featuring talented Ghanaian high-life star, Ahenfo on this beautiful song.
The release of this masterpiece “Shock” is eagerly awaited by music lovers and industry insiders alike. It is a moment that promises to be a milestone in Kobby Brown’s career, and fans are already counting down the days until they can experience this exciting new track and was produced by Sky Beatz Classic.
As Kobby Brown continues to push the boundaries of Afrobeat and high-life and amapiano. ‘Shock’ is sure to make waves, resonating with audiences across the globe. This fusion of cultures and genres represents a new chapter in Kobby Brown’s artistic journey, and it’s bound to be a chapter worth remembering.
Stay tuned for the release of ‘Shock’ on December 5th and get ready to immerse yourself in a musical adventure like no other, courtesy of the multifaceted talent, Kobby Brown.
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