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Deankelly Talks Ukulu, Sound Identity & His Musical Journey

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Editor’s Note:

With a refreshing sound that blends Afro-highlife and smooth rhythms, Deankelly is shaping his own musical path in the Nigerian music scene. Fresh off the release of his new single “Ukulu,” we caught up with the artist to talk sound, creative process, and the journey so far. What followed was a lively conversation filled with honest look reflections, confident energy, and a glimpse of what’s coming next.

🎧 Listen while you read:

🎵The Sound of Now

Xclusivstars Nigeria: Your new song “Ukulu” just dropped—congrats! How are you feeling right now?

Deankelly: I feel ecstatic, it’s been in my drive for so long and I’m happy the world gets to listen to it now haha.

Xclusivstars Nigeria: What was the inspiration behind this particular track?

Deankelly: I wanted to do some type of Afro highlife fusion and my producer sent a beat that was barely finished and we came up with this infectious record. Like some of my records I drew inspiration from what most Nigerians would call “Lamba”. I just wanted to create an infectious summer vibe to make ladies feel beautiful and dance.

Xclusivstars Nigeria: How long did it take to put “Ukulu” together—from idea to release?

Deankelly: I can’t really recall but one thing I will say is that I started writing this record on September 2023 or even before that lol. I just checked my iPhone notes app now and saw that it said last edited September 2023, that is wildddd haha.

Xclusivstars Nigeria: What kind of message or vibe were you aiming to give your fans with this one?

Deankelly: Have fun, dance, feel beautiful, and to my guys—if you see ukulu go meet am tell am your mind no fear.

🎤 Looking Back on the Journey

Xclusivstars Nigeria: Take us back to the beginning—how did your journey into music start?

Deankelly: Started with me downloading music from the internet and wanting to make music people would download on the internet. I’ve always loved music as a kid and I wanted to create and leave my mark on this earth as a great musician.

Xclusivstars Nigeria: What were some key moments or milestones that brought you to this point?

Deankelly: There are a lot but I can remember performing at SXSW in Austin, TX and that was a surreal moment seeing foreigners get hypnotised by the sounds I created in my bedroom. It was great to see and witness.

Xclusivstars Nigeria: What challenges have you faced, and how did you overcome them?

Deankelly: Finding genuine and like-minded people who see what I am trying to achieve with my music.

Xclusivstars Nigeria: How would you describe your sound to someone hearing your music for the first time?

Deankelly: African, bright, groovy, and sonically appealing.

Xclusivstars Nigeria: Which artists or genres have influenced your music the most?

Deankelly: Wande Coal, 2Baba, T-Pain, Post Malone, Rihanna, Burna Boy.

Xclusivstars Nigeria: Are there any upcoming performances, videos, or collaborations you’re excited about?

Deankelly: Oh definitely, there are a lot of stuffs coming up BUT follow me on socials to get the gist first.
@deankelly_4eva

Wrap-Up:

From writing songs in his notes app to performing on global stages, Deankelly’s story is one of sound, soul, and steady growth. With “Ukulu” already spinning on repeat, the only way for this rising star is up—and we’ll be watching.

🎶 Still vibing with this interview?

Don’t miss the song we’ve been talking about.

 🎧 Play Ukulu on Audiomack

🎧 Stream Ukulu on Spotify 

 

 

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Stanley Nwabali Saves the Day as Super Eagles Beat Egypt on Penalties to Claim AFCON Bronze

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Stanley Nwabali - Instagram

Nigeria’s Super Eagles secured the AFCON bronze medal with a 4–2 penalty shootout win over Egypt after a goalless draw at the Stade Mohammed V on Saturday. The victory was defined by goalkeeper Stanley Nwabali, whose key saves in the shootout handed Nigeria the medal.

Photo Credit – Instagram

The match was tight from the start, with both teams defending effectively. Nigeria, still recovering from their semi-final loss to Morocco, struggled to break down Egypt’s compact formation. Egypt, led by Mohamed Salah, had occasional moments of threat but could not convert their chances. Nigeria thought they had scored twice, with Akor Adams heading in and substitute Ademola Lookman finishing in the second half, but both goals were ruled out after VAR and offside decisions. The game ended 0‑0 after 90 minutes.

Photo Credit – Instagram

The bronze medal match went straight to penalties. Salah stepped up first, only for Nwabali to save the shot. Moments later, Omar Marmoush also saw his attempt stopped by the Nigerian goalkeeper. These two saves gave Nigeria the advantage. Akor Adams, Moses Simon, Alex Iwobi, and Lookman calmly converted their penalties, securing a 4–2 victory.

Nwabali’s performance combined quick reflexes and calm under pressure, earning him the Man of the Match award. His saves not only prevented goals but also allowed his teammates to take their penalties with confidence.

Stanley Nwabali – Instagram

For Nigeria, this bronze medal marks their ninth in AFCON history, extending their record as one of Africa’s most successful teams. It also allowed the squad to finish the tournament positively after missing the final, showing resilience and determination.

After the match, Nwabali credited preparation and careful study of opponents as key to his performance. His contribution highlights how a goalkeeper can influence a tournament, not just in a single moment, but through consistent, decisive actions.

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Teyana Taylor Wins Her First Golden Globes and Delivers an Emotional Speech

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Photo: Getty images

Teyana Taylor won a Golden Globes Award at the 2026 Golden Globes Awards held on January 11, 2026 in Beverly Hills, California. She got the award for Best Supporting Actress in a Motion Picture for her role in One Battle After Another.

Taylor was emotional when her name was called. When asked later about her reasons for being teary, she said she didn’t think she would but was happy about her victory.

Teyana Taylor: Getty images

In her acceptance speech at Global Globes Awards 2026, Taylor thanked those who supported her. She praised her family, and her close friends. She acknowledged director Paul Thomas Anderson for his great vision and for believing in her.

Taylor’s message drew attention across the media and sparked discussions about diversity and visibility. She has shown how talent can make one famous in the entertainment space. Her performance in the movie was praised for standing out against a competitive field of

Teyana Taylor: Instagram

nominees.

Her message to young girls read

“To my brown sisters and little brown girls watching tonight, our softness is not a liability. Our depth is not too much. Our light does not need permission to shine. We belong in every room we walk into. Our voices matter and our dreams deserve space.”

Overall, Teyana Taylor’s Golden Globes victory reinforces her message of empowerment, perseverance, and representation. Her win highlighted the importance of diverse voices in Hollywood.

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Wunmi Mosaku Reveals Her Pregnancy at the Golden Globes

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Photo: Getty images

At the 2026 Golden Globe Awards, actress Wunmi Mosaku openly announced her second pregnancy. The moment became memorable because of the way she chose to share the news at one of the film’s biggest nights.

Mosaku arrived at the ceremony celebrating her film Sinners, which received seven nominations. She wore a yellow gown by Matthew Reisman Collection, similar to Mihlali Ndamase Chartereuse gown. The vibrant colour reflected the Yoruba phrase “Iya ni Wúrà,” meaning “mother is golden,” in her culture.

Wunmi Mosaku: Getty images

Mosaku shared her pregnancy news through her red-carpet appearance and a personal essay published in Vogue. In that piece, she explained that in her culture, pregnancy announcements are traditionally kept private.

She acknowledged that speculation about her appearance had already begun during awards season, with people questioning changes in her figure. To address this, she chose the Golden Globes as the moment to stop hiding her bump and “enjoy and embrace the moment. Her decision shows a desire to be real.

Mosaku spoke publicly about broader issues surrounding pregnancy and maternal health, especially for Black women. In her essay, she highlighted the emotional complexity that often accompanies pregnancy for Black mothers. She wrote that peace often comes only after medical reassurance.

Photo: Instagram

Mosaku, who welcomed her first child less than a year ago, also spoke frankly about the challenges of pregnancy. She shared that being visibly pregnant on the red carpet was a huge relief, allowing her the move freely without concealment.

Mosaku is launching a new clothing line called Iyadé, meaning “mother has arrived” in Yoruba. It is inspired by her own experiences and aims to honour the changing bodies of mothers.

Her pregnancy reveal at the Golden Globes was how she wants to show understanding toward motherhood. It brought attention to her success. It also reflects real‑world experiences of Black women.

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