Welcome to Vol 100 of The Spread!
The Spread is a weekly edit of the best stories and global news on Africa(ns) influencing mainstream culture.
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How to Enter: (1) Tap here to RSVP to our upcoming JAM 'Picnic in the Park' event (2) Invite your friends by sharing the link - the more, the merrier!
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Now, on to the real peel...
🔥 Trending Stories
- Labrum London Pays Homage to Africa in New Arsenal Away Kit via OkayAfrica

- The South Sudan Men's Basketball Team is Ready to Make its Olympic Debut via The Sporting News
- Three of African Music’s Hottest Rising Stars Team Up on “One Call” via UPROXX
- How An Igbo Man Came to Rule American Country Music via OkayAfrica
- Guess The City Unveiled as Africa's Top Cities for Quality Living in 2024? via IOL
- Kenyan Skincare Startup Raises 1.4M USD For Expansion into Global Markets such as USA via Kenyan Wall Street
- Check Out These Parisian Fine Dining Restaurants Influenced by African Cuisine and Heritage via bon appétit
⏳ Trivia Time
What Sierra Leonean musician, known as the "King of Bubu Music," gained international recognition for modernising the traditional Bubu style?
A) Emmerson Bockarie
B) Janka Nabay
C) Sorie Kondi
Scroll to the very bottom for the answer.
🧭 A Marmalade Guide To...

Ojude Oba Festival: Everything You Need to Know
Let's talk about the viral stunning photos by photographer Niyi Fagebmi. These photos are just the tip of the iceberg. But what lies beneath the surface of this eye-catching spectacle?
Join us as we peel back the layers of the Ojude Oba Festival, a celebration that's more than just a feast for the eyes. We'll uncover the beating heart of this event, exploring its mysterious origins, unforgettable highlights and the unique customs that have kept it alive for generations.
What We're...
📰 Reading: OkayAfrica's Article on the Rise of Nollywood Blockbusters. It also explores concerns about the future of cinema culture in Nigeria and the opportunities available for independent filmmakers, and a possible shift in how Nollywood content is consumed.
🎧 Listening to: Rema's Energy-filled 'OZEBA'. "The frenetic ‘Ozeba’ feels nostalgic for 2010s Afrobeats – and his flow feels similar to the rolling drums we hear in other tracks on ‘Heis’. While being unapologetically daring, Rema reminds the world that you can’t play with greatness." - NME
📺 Watching: Rema's Interview on Apple Music. Rema provided an in-depth explanation for his decision to switch up his musical style on his recently-released sophomore album, HEIS. He expressed concerns that Afrobeats is being diluted and losing its unique essence.
🎟️ Booking: JAM 'Picnic In The Park' - Marmalade members go free. Get ready for the ultimate summer picnic in London, where culture, community and celebration come together in a park near you!

👀 Eyeing: Dye Lab's Summer Edit. Check out their beautiful and colourful summer edit at their London pop up now open at 55 Curtain Street, Shoreditch, EC2A 3PT, opened from July 19th - August 10th.
👏 That's a wrap!
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Janka Nabay, often referred to as the "King of Bubu Music," was a Sierra Leonean musician who gained international recognition for his efforts in modernising and popularising Bubu music.
Bubu is a traditional music of Sierra Leone, originally played on bamboo horns. Nabay electrified this ancient style, incorporating modern instruments and electronic elements while maintaining its cultural essence. His unique blend of traditional and contemporary sounds brought Bubu music to a global audience.
Nabay's work not only preserved an important aspect of Sierra Leonean cultural heritage but also helped put the country's music on the international map. He released several albums and performed at various international festivals, spreading awareness of Bubu music and Sierra Leonean culture worldwide.