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As her eldest daughter prepares for what’s sure to be one of the defining tours of the year, Tina Knowles graced the 2025 Billboard Women in Music stage to accept the inaugural Mother of the Year honor at the YouTube Theater in Inglewood, California, on Saturday (March 29).
After beginning her acceptance speech praising all the other awardees — like Woman of the Year honoree Doechii, who gushed over Cowboy Carter on the red carpet before the show — Knowles took some time to reflect on her evolution as a mother, stressing that “there is no formal training class to prepare you for the most important job you’ll ever have in your life.” For Knowles, motherhood is all about committing to being the best you can be for your children each day.
“I want to thank my daughters, Solange, Beyoncé, Kelly [Rowland], [niece] Angie [Beyincé], and also Michelle [Williams], LaTavia [Roberson] and LeToya [Luckett],” she said to close her speech, name-dropping her “bonus” children in addition to her two daughters. “I got to mother you all in some way, and you believed in me early on to dress you and give love [and] creative input. Thank you, Mathew Knowles, who always fought for me, and I thank God Almighty for the privilege to be a mother. I’ll always say it’s the best job I’ve ever had. I dedicate this award to my amazing mother, Agnes, and all the mothers out there who have supported their kids in their dreams. Thank you.”
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Presented by Billboard editor-in-chief Hannah Karp during the final weekend of Women’s History Month, this year’s Mother of the Year award honors the ultimate 21st-century music matriarch. Tina Knowles, the mother of Grammy-winning, Billboard 200-topping music and cultural forces Beyoncé and Solange has been a key player behind the scenes of both of her daughters’ careers. In the early days of Destiny’s Child — and throughout their tenure as a group — Tina Knowles designed and crafted costumes for the R&B divas, cementing their singular Houston-indebted style. Her costume design also appeared in a slew of Beyoncé-led films, including Dreamgirls, Obsessed, Cadillac Records and Austin Powers in Goldmember.
In 2004, she and Beyoncé teamed up to launch House of Deréon, a clothing line named after Knowles’ own mother, Agnes Deréon. Twenty years later, the iconic mother-daughter duo would once again join forces for Cécred, an award-winning haircare line that brings Tina Knowles back to where it all started: the hair salon. Of course, she is also the grandmother of Grammy winner Blue Ivy, who recently starred in Disney’s box-office-topping Mufasa movie; rising fashion model Julez Smith; and twin siblings Rumi and Sir Carter.
Tina Knowles’ full Mother of the Year acceptance speech will be available here at 7 p.m. ET on Monday night (March 31).
Ye — formerly known as Kanye West — sat down (actually stood up) for an explosive interview with DJ Akademiks earlier this March. After making about “eight edits” at the request of West’s team, Ak premiered the interview during a live stream on Sunday (March 30). The Chicago native controlled the pace of the interview […]
It’s the end of March, and suddenly it’s already a quarter of the way through 2025. How did that happen? We’re not sure, but there’s been plenty of good music from Africa to get us through so far.
After collaborating with Nigerian superstar Burna Boy and renowned Ghanaian producer GuiltyBeatz, Jorja Smith gets (back) together with South African DJ/producers Major League Djz on the hypnotic Afro house banger “Come With Me.” And alté producer Genio Bambino has been helping rising Nigerian stars from DEELA to Moyoswlrd cultivate their sound — with the latter recently releasing her eclectic eight-track EP First Ep!c.
Not only that, but a couple of veterans return with new albums — particularly Ruger and Joeboy, both of whom have singles that made the cut this month — while now-reliable hitmakers Khaid and Young Jonn also put out new tracks worth hearing.
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We’ve highlighted 10 of our favorite new songs by African acts that have come out roughly within the last month. Check out our latest Fresh Picks, and enjoy some springtime tunes with our Spotify playlist below.
NSG, “A.L.Y.B.H.B.”
British Afroswing collective NSG knows we’re about to be outside bumping “A.L.Y.B.H.B.,” from its latest album The Big 6. The irresistible track’s singalong “hey, ho!” and titular “act like you’ve been here before!” chants, paired with LP producer 4Play’s groovy, sun-soaked rhythm, is sure to become the next go-to banger at day parties this spring and summer.
Efosa & Sparbz, “SKIN”
British-Nigerian singer-songwriter Efosa and his right-hand producer/manager Sparbz heat things up again on their latest sexy number “SKIN.” “Your waistline tells a story/ Whine on me till the night’s complete/ Lemme whisper in your ear/ ‘Baby, leave with me,’” Efosa croons in the second verse. His soothing voice draws listeners dangerously close, while Sparbz’s spine-chilling synth riffs heighten the erotic sensation.
Moyoswrld, Mofe. & Genio Bambino, “Pocket Money”
Alté artist Moyoswrld links with one of the scene’s most esteemed producers, Genio Bambino, and viral “Prince of Egypt” singer Mofe. on the kaleidoscopic “Pocket Money” cut from her latest EP First Ep!c. Moyoswlrd and Mofe. swap verses about being deep in their bag over Genio and Zamir’s frenetic production, characterized by laser beam-like synths and a booming bassline that makes listeners feel like they’re zooming through the track’s one-minute, 23-second runtime.
Kelvyn Boy, “Break It”
Ghanaian Afropop star Kelvyn Boy is getting the baddies to “Break It” down for him on this sensual dancefloor-filler. If your name is Ayisha, Kilisha, Amina, Abena, Maria or Monica, you better “go down (break it)” to Anel Worldwide’s bouncy beat, like Kelvyn Boy calls them out to do on the chorus.
Major League DJz feat. Jorja Smith, “Come With Me”
Jorja Smith is no stranger to collaborating with African musicians, from showing off her chemistry with Burna Boy on the sensual “Gum Body” from his 2018 album African Giant and the sweltering 2019 single “Be Honest” to linking with GuiltyBeatz on the slinky “All Of This” in 2021 (which South African DJ/producers like Major League Djz remixed).
So it comes as no surprise that the soulful English singer reunited with Major League Djz on “Come With Me.” The amapiano ambassadors trade their signature sound for an Afro house-focused approach, while Smith anchors the buoyant track with her comforting, resonant vocals. “We knew we wanted to step into the electronic space in a way that still felt authentic to who we are, and this track was the perfect balance,” Major League Djz says in a press release, adding that the duo had “been wanting to work with Jorja on an original track for a while and now the timing feels perfect.”
Khaid, “FOR YOU”
Still young, Khaid has cornered the market in super-melodic Afropop with a string of extremely catchy singles over the past few years, and “FOR YOU” adds to that lineage with a breezy paean to a lover who remains just out of reach. The song’s video seems to position it as one designed to showcase, or kick off, a dance craze — but the young singer’s vocals are just as enticing, hopefully heralding a new full project from him.
Ruger, “Toro (A Colors Show)”
The “Asiwaju” hitmaker’s voice is one of the most distinctive on the scene right now, with his almost understated delivery sometimes overshadowing his lyricism. But here it’s the overall melodies that shine through, similar to some of his bigger singles, as he leans into the laid-back vibe to croon over the hook rather than delving too deep into the topic of a broken relationship.
Zlatan feat. FOLA, “Get Better”
A contemplative cut that is almost a prayer over the understated production, the track centers largely on FOLA’s plaintive hook, which buffers Zlatan’s more aspirational and energetic verses. The two blend voices effortlessly near the end, and produce another step forward in each of their respective careers.
Joeboy, “Taxi Driver”
Joeboy’s latest album, Viva Lavida, picks up where his 2023 effort Body & Soul left off, showcasing the Nigerian singer’s silky smooth voice and layered vocal production. This track is a standout on what is generally another great album from him, with features from the legend Olamide and rising voice Qing Madi, among others, and this one layers a classic Afrobeats drum pattern with a plodding groove, letting his voice lead the charge.
Young Jonn, “Only Fans”
At this point, the super-producer has fully made the successful transition to leading artist, with his 2024 Jiggy Forever album pulling together the long string of bangers he’s released into one cohesive place last year. “Only Fans” now continues that streak with an almost luxurious new hit, more in the pocket than some of his more uptempo songs like “Sharpally” and “Xtra Cool,” but one that serves as a deserved victory lap given the past decade of Jonn’s work. Performing as an artist now, in addition to his lauded production, he’s here to stay.
Winning Global Force at the 2025 Women in Music event? That’s just like JENNIE. Surrounded by some of the industry’s most acclaimed female artists and executives, the BLACKPINK star accepted this year’s international honor on stage at Los Angeles’ YouTube Theater Saturday (March 29), giving special shoutouts to her bandmates, Woman of the Year Doechii and more.
Confessing that she was feeling “really nervous right now,” the Idol star — looking glamorous in a sparkling deep red gown — breathlessly gave her acceptance speech as passionate fans in the crowd screamed with excitement for her. “This is so special,” she said. “I’m inspired by all the women in this room and around the globe who continue to break barriers and make their mark on the world stage. This award is a tribute to every woman who dares to dream, create and shape the world with her vision,” JENNIE continued. “Women are such a powerful force, and when we come together, we uplift each other every step of the way.
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“I’m so lucky and fortunate to work with so many talented people in my career—singers, songwriters, producers,” she added. “Doechii, I love you, and Kali (Uchis), I love you. I had these amazing women be on my album, and words cannot express how thankful I am.”
JENNIE also gave shoutouts to her team, label, and of course, “my BLACKPINK girls — without them, this journey would’ve never happened.”
Several other women were also honored at Saturday’s show, including Songwriter of the Year Gracie Abrams, Group of the Year aespa and Impact Award-winner Tyla. Of her prize, JENNIE told Billboard on the red carpet before the ceremony that “to be honored as Global Force is just so special.”
She also spoke about how meaningful it’s been to step into her solo era while her BLACKPINK bandmates also pursue their own independent projects. JENNIE’s debut album, Ruby — featuring the Doechii-assisted “ExtraL” and “Damn Right” with Uchis and Donald Glover — arrived March 7 and debuted at No. 7 on the Billboard 200. ROSÉ, LISA and JISOO have also dropped solo music in the past year-plus since the girl group has been on break.
“We talk about this all the time,” said the “Mantra” singer. “It’s amazing how we’re all doing our own thing. We have each other’s backs no matter what, and that’s such a special feeling. I miss them.”
JENNIE won’t have to miss her bandmates for long, though, as the foursome is set to reunite this summer for a global tour and is currently working on new music.
You can watch the 2025 Billboard Women in Music ceremony here starting at 7 p.m. ET on Monday (March 31) and on VIZIO TVs and the VIZIO app.
GloRilla absolutely dominated 2024 as she cemented her status as one of the premier rappers in the game today. Following her massive year, Glo was honored with the Powerhouse Award at the Billboard Women in Music 2025 ceremony in Los Angeles on Saturday (March 29). Draped in a sleek black tux, the Memphis native was […]
With Monday (March 31) marking the annual International Transgender Day of Visibility, pop superstar Madonna took a moment to celebrate the community with a post to her social media. Sharing a series of photos from a fundraising fashion show she attended over the weekend to her Instagram account — including a photo with trans model […]
TAMLA Records, the Nashville-based reprise of the storied label founded by Motown Records icon Berry Gordy, is announcing its official re-launch. Having set the goal “to redefine the Christian music landscape,” TAMLA operates under the Motown Gospel/Capitol Christian Music Group banner and is helmed by Walter Thomas, senior vp for Motown Gospel & TAMLA.
“Our mission is to champion, uplift and inspire new generation cutting-edge artists,” Thomas tells Billboard, “by providing a platform to connect their music with fans around the world through innovation and culture. TAMLA is the new home of positive music.”
It was initially announced in 2023 that TAMLA — Gordy’s late ‘50s precursor to Motown — would be revamped as a “mainstream imprint specializing in positive R&B and hip-hop music.” The first partner signed then to the reimagined TAMLA was Thomas “Tillie” Mann and his label Encouragement Music. However, the early 2024 reorganization of Universal Music Group delayed TAMLA’s formal relaunch.
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Also working alongside Thomas at TAMLA will be Rodney “Darkchild” Jerkins. The Grammy Award-winning songwriter/producer has partnered with TAMLA to sign and develop emerging talent under his imprint, EVOLVE Music Group.
Rodney Jerkins / Credit: Andre St. Louis
“The history of TAMLA is very important,” Jerkins tells Billboard. “People need to know what TAMLA meant then but more importantly what it will mean now. To have the chance to help continue the legacy of what the great Berry Gordy started is what really prompted my decision to partner with TAMLA. We have a great opportunity to find new artists that can help continue its rich legacy.”
“I want to help bring to the world some cutting-edge Christian and gospel music,” added Jerkins. “I’ve always felt it should co-exist with mainstream. So my goal with Walter and Brad [O’Donnell, president of Capitol Christian Music Group] is to discover talent that we feel could do just that.”
In addition to the aforementioned Encouragement Music and its artist EmanuelDaProphet, TAMLA’s current roster now includes Childlike CiCi, Jordan L’Oreal and Lee Vasi. The label has also entered into a partnership with AMG Music Group (Anderson Music Group). Thomas’ label team at TAMLA includes senior director of A&R Alex Dollar, senior director of marketing Justin Tomlinson, director of A&R Justin Pearson and project manager, marketing Brianna Dowd.
“Right now, more than ever, I think we all need hope,” says Thomas. “And this music gives a lot of hope and uplift. It isn’t front tier in a lot of people’s minds because it’s religion-based. But if they can get past religion-based and get caught up in the whole messages that this music gives, people will connect more.”
“The more opportunities and platforms that these artists get on, I think people will want to hear it,” continues Thomas. “They just don’t know that it’s out. The main goal right now is to position these artists to be front and center so they can work in general market settings as well.”
This week, it was especially fitting that American Idol airs on Sundays. On the March 30 episode of the show, teenage contestant — and aspiring preacher — Canaan James Hill took the judges to church with his audition for the show, leaving Lionel Richie in particular stunned. Before diving into a soulful rendition of Earnest […]
Miley Cyrus has released the first song and visual from her upcoming album Something Beautiful, unleashing the cinematic “Prelude” on Monday morning (March 31). As indicated by its title, “Prelude” finds the pop star setting up the themes of her May 30-slated LP. As bright shots of shadows dancing over flowers flash in and out […]
One of Kurt Cobain‘s most iconic instruments is about to go on display for the first time in Europe. The Royal College of Music London announced that its “Kurt Cobain Unplugged” exhibit — which opens on June 3 and runs through Nov. 18 — will feature the late Nirvana singer’s rare Martin D-18E guitar, which […]