Welcome to Trickle Media’s Weekly Trend Report, your go-to source for the most captivating happenings in the entertainment sphere! This week, we’ve witnessed an exciting mix of nostalgia, resilience, glamour, and groundbreaking innovation. From iconic Nigerian Highlife making a powerful comeback and a Ghanaian influencer bravely facing a crisis, to a billionaire wedding stirring up controversy in Venice and a UK teacher using hip-hop to heal, the world of entertainment and lifestyle continues to evolve in fascinating ways. Plus, get ready to feel the magic as two powerhouse talents unite for a highly anticipated musical collaboration.
Bright Chimezie’s Hit Song To Be Remixed Thanks To Davido
In a heartwarming blast from the past, Nigerian Highlife icon Bright Chimezie has breathed new life into his four-decade-old classic, “Because of English.” This resurgence isn’t just about nostalgia; it’s a testament to the enduring power of his music and its poignant message. The track is known for its distinctive Zigima sound. It recently enjoyed a commercial revival after being sampled by Afrobeats superstar Davido. This comes on his hit single “With You” featuring Omah Lay, off his latest album, *5ive*. This collaboration has introduced Chimezie’s genius to a new generation, showcasing the timeless relevance of his artistry.
Beyond the sampling, Chimezie himself has released a stripped-back, acoustic version of “Because of English”. The version offers a fresh perspective on its powerful lyrics. The original, a witty social commentary on the colonial-era policing of language, now takes on an even deeper emotional resonance with raw, resonant strings replacing the familiar highlife bounce. It’s a musical protest, a cultural reckoning that champions indigenous languages and prompts listeners to reflect on identity and expression. Chimezie’s iconic line, “Because of English, my teacher punished me,” serves as a vivid memory and a wake-up call. It emphasizes that our native tongues are not merely tools but invaluable treasures.
This heartwarming move by Bright Chimezie serves as an inspiring example for other veteran artists. The move encourages them to revisit and reimagine their extensive catalogues. The renewed interest in “Because of English” highlights a growing trend in the Nigerian music scene. This trend is that of classic songs being sampled and reinterpreted by contemporary Afrobeats stars. The phenomenon bridges generational gaps and preserving musical legacies. Whether you’re a longtime fan or just discovering his work, this acoustic rendition is a powerful musical monologue. The phenomenon also comes as a mirror reflecting the importance of cultural heritage.
Ghanaian Influencer Sarah Lawson Loses Home in Terrifying Fire Incident
Ghanaian lifestyle influencer Sarah Lawson faced a terrifying ordeal this week. Her house caught fire. The unfortunate event happened in the early hours of Wednesday, June 25, 2025. The incident left her and her housemates shaken. Everyone were safe and no lives were lost. Lawson quickly took to social media, sharing emotional footage of the blaze and appealing for help. She provided real-time updates as firefighters from the Ghana National Fire Service (GNFS) bravely battled the flames.
The prompt response from the GNFS was crucial, preventing the fire from consuming the entire structure. The exact cause and full extent of the damage remain under investigation. Lawson’s follow-up videos reassured her worried fans about her and her neighbors’ well-being. She expressed immense gratitude for the swift intervention. This unfortunate event occurred just a day after another significant fire incident in Accra, near the National Lotteries office. The fire destroyed over 50 wooden structures and goods due to a faulty gas cylinder. It had no reported injuries or fatalities.
These back-to-back fire incidents have ignited renewed calls for enhanced fire safety measures across residential and commercial areas in Accra. Netizens have expressed overwhelming relief at Sarah Lawson’s safety. They also emphasized the critical need for regular maintenance of electrical systems and gas appliances. The viral videos of the fire at Lawson’s residence also showcased the heroic efforts of the fire personnel. These brave men brought the situation under control, serving as a stark reminder of the importance of preparedness.
Jeff Bezos and Lauren Sanchez Tie the Knot Amidst Protests
In a spectacle of opulence, Amazon founder Jeff Bezos and his fiancée Lauren Sanchez officially tied the knot on Friday. He wedded in a lavish ceremony held on a private island within Venice’s picturesque lagoon. The star-studded event included high-profile guests like entertainment icons, Kim and Khloe Kardashian, Oprah Winfrey, and Orlando Bloom. The event was designed to be an exclusive affair, shielded from the public eye and the sounds of local protests. The couple stayed at the luxurious 16th-century Aman hotel on the Grand Canal. They exchanged vows in a black-tie ceremony at a vast open-air amphitheater on the island of San Giorgio Maggiore.
While Bezos expressed his enchantment with Venice, describing it as an “impossible” city, not everyone shared his celebratory mood. Protesters gathered, projecting a stark message “No Kings, No Bezos” onto the St. Mark’s Campanile tower. They highlighted growing concerns about Venice’s sustainability. Activists argue that the fragile city is struggling under the weight of excessive tourism and depopulation. In addition, the protesters claim locals are being priced out by soaring rents. The stark contrast between the billionaire’s lavish celebrations and the city’s ongoing challenges sparked a broader conversation about economic disparity. Furthermore, the protest brough fort the impact of tourism on historic sites.
Details of the extravagant wedding revealed a culinary experience crafted by Michelin-starred chef Fabrizio Mellino. The cake was by French pastry chef Cedric Grolet. Sanchez is now using the name Lauren Sanchez Bezos on Instagram. She shared a photo in her flowing white dress and Bezos in black tie, though without revealing the location. The event, underscored the sheer scale of the celebration with complete with serenades from Matteo Bocelli. However, it also inadvertently brought to light the underlying tensions within Venice. It forced a moment of reflection on the future of this iconic, yet vulnerable, city.
Hip-Hop Healing: UK Teacher Uses Rap, Entertainment and Art to Help Students Cope
In an innovative approach to student well-being, James Bennett, a teacher at Holy Trinity Catholic School in Small Heath, Birmingham, is leveraging the power of hip-hop and street art to help pupils navigate grief and anxiety. His lunchtime initiative, “Hip-Hop Healing,” provides a unique and engaging outlet for students to express themselves. This happens by recording raps and designing graffiti art. Mr. Bennett notes that elements of hip-hop have proven to be most effective in connecting with and supporting his students. This move creates a “safe space” for them to process their emotions.
The club has already made a profound impact on students like 14-year-old Sam. Sam found solace in the program after the recent loss of his mother. He shares a passion for music with Mr. Bennett and collaborated with him on a rap. He remarks that the teacher helped him “get through the thing with my mum”. Sam also revealed that the collaboration helped him “turn his hurt into something he enjoyed. ” Another student, Rosanna, credits “Hip-Hop Healing” with helping her “develop as a person” and “grow”. She revealed it enables her to “look at life in a different perspective” and “change the way I perceive things.”
Mr. Bennett, who has previously advocated for incorporating hip-hop into the national curriculum, emphasizes that the program is fundamentally about “healing, writing it, getting it out and doing it to music.” While hip-hop serves as the primary starting point, students are also introduced to mindfulness and meditation techniques, further equipping them with tools to shift their mindset from negative to positive. This inspiring initiative demonstrates how creative and culturally relevant methods can provide vital support for young people facing emotional challenges, proving that learning can truly transcend traditional boundaries.
Entertainment Icons, DJ Zinhle and Thabsie Unite for “Kusazokhanya”: A Friendship Forged in Music
Get ready to feel the magic as two entertainment powerhouse talents. Award-winning DJ Zinhle and soulful songbird Thabsie (Bathabise Biyela), will release their highly anticipated single, “Kusazokhanya” soon. This collaboration is more than just a musical venture; it’s a testament to a deep-rooted friendship that has flourished over years of mutual support and shared dreams. Fans have long admired their individual successes. Their combined artistry will deliver something truly special: music.
Both artists bring impressive résumés to the table. Thabsie, celebrated for her powerfully soulful vocals and hits like “Ngiyaz’fela Ngawe” and “African Queen,” has cultivated a loyal fanbase through her versatile blend of neo-soul, R&B, and Afropop, securing collaborations with industry heavyweights such as Kwesta and JR. DJ Zinhle, on the other hand, has consistently dominated the DJ scene with her chart-topping hits and a reputation for producing infectious tracks that ignite any party. Together, they represent a formidable force, blending their unique sounds and energies to create something truly fresh.
The excitement surrounding “Kusazokhanya” reached a fever pitch after the duo announced the upcoming single on their social media, sharing a striking black and white photoshoot that hints at a visually stunning music video. Thabsie’s caption, “Bestie’d so hard you create magic together ✨ New song: Kusazokhanya by Dj Zinhle x Thabsie coming soon 🔥,” perfectly encapsulates the spirit of their collaboration. Fans are already raving about the song’s uplifting lyrics and the undeniable chemistry between the two artists, with many commenting on their uncanny resemblance in the promotional material. While the release date remains under wraps, the anticipation for this heartwarming musical synergy is soaring.
Final Words
As we wrap up this week’s trend report, it’s clear that the entertainment and lifestyle sphere is a dynamic tapestry woven with surprising comebacks, moments of profound resilience, dazzling spectacles, and impactful innovation. From the enduring power of music to bridge generations and the urgent need for community safety, to the nuanced conversations sparked by celebrity events and the transformative potential of creative education, these stories remind us of the diverse ways in which culture and entertainment continues to shape our lives. The synergy of friendship in music also highlights how personal connections can create powerful new artistic expressions. We look forward to seeing how these stories continue to unfold and what new entertainment trends will emerge next.
