Pharrell Williams appointed UNESCO Goodwill Ambassador for Arts and Education, Tams‘ album at No. 2 on Billboard’s Best R&B Albums of 2024 list, acts Inter Miami Leo Campana to New England Revolution for a record $2.5 million. Stay informed with our Rave News Summarywhich summarizes five of the hottest global news stories you need to stay informed, saving you time and energy. Consider it your daily news fix.
1. Pharrell Williams appointed UNESCO Goodwill Ambassador for Arts and Education
Relive the nomination moment!🌟
Look like @Pharrell accepts his appointment as @UNESCO Goodwill ambassador for arts education and entrepreneurship.
His powerful words are a testament to our shared mission of advertising #Education & #Culture worldwide.
👉https://t.co/apKub5W5G1 pic.twitter.com/eVfiXsTBGB
— UNESCO 🏛️ #Education #Sciences #Culture 🇺🇳 (@UNESCO) December 20, 2024
Super producer and fashion designer Pharrell Williams has been named a UNESCO Goodwill Ambassador for Artistic Education and Entrepreneurship. The announcement was made at a ceremony on December 17 at UNESCO headquarters in Paris. Williams, best known for world hits such as “Cheerful,” will use its platform to advocate for UNESCO’s key initiatives, including preserving indigenous cultures, improving education and health care for women, raising awareness about genocide prevention and protecting cultural heritage.
In his acceptance speech, Williams emphasized the importance of unity and equality and expressed his commitment to them “equalizing opportunities for marginalized communities.” UNESCO highlighted Williams’ potential as a mentor and role model for young creators, especially in Africa, where the organization supports the growth of cultural industries. His appointment underlines the United States’ renewed commitment to UNESCO following its takeover under President last year Joe Bidenafter a period of absence during the Trump administration.
2. Tems’ album ranks No. 2 on Billboard’s Best R&B Albums of 2024 list
Billboard ranks Tems’ “Born In The Wild” as the second-best R&B album of 2024.
— Celebrating her artistry and impact in the genre 💿✨🕊️ pic.twitter.com/UrAgEehkdq
— tems 𝖘z𝖓 (@temsszn) December 19, 2024
Nigerian sensation Temilade Openiyi, better known as Tems, has made history again with her debut album ‘Born in the wild’ which ranked No. 2 on Billboard’s prestigious list of Best R&B Albums of 2024. Released on December 18, the list celebrates the best contributions to the R&B genre, with Tems standing out as the only African artist featured. Billboard praised her debut as a project that “transcends the Afrobeats genre,” highlighting her ability to bridge cultures with soulful melodies and poignant stories.
“Born in the Wild” marked a breakthrough year for Tems, debuting at No. 5 on the Billboard Top R&B Albums chart, her highest placement to date. The album’s success also earned her three Grammy nominations, including Best Global Music Album and Best R&B Song for “Burning.” With songs like “Love Me Jeje” and “Do it right,” the project showcases her growth as an artist navigating the global spotlight. Billboard described her work as a “dazzling” exploration of purpose and artistry, cementing her place as one of the most influential voices in contemporary R&B.
3. South Africa: Cyan Boujee opens up about alleged physical abuse by her ex-boyfriend
Popular South African social media influencer and DJ, Cyan Boujeereal name Honor Zumahas shared a deeply emotional account of an alleged physical attack by her ex-boyfriend. In a candid YouTube video, Cyan opened up about the traumatic incident, revealing bruises and scars from the attack. She said the assault took place at her home after she returned exhausted from a trip to Tanzania. She explained how her ex-boyfriend allegedly waited until she was alone and asleep before unleashing a violent attack, which included biting her face and body. Despite her attempts to escape, the attack continued outside, with bystanders recording the incident rather than intervening.
Cyan described the trauma she endured, expressed fear for her safety and how her ex-boyfriend’s parents allegedly tried to bribe her after his arrest. The influencer revealed that signs of abuse were visible earlier in their relationship, citing threats he made regarding her association with DJ Maphorisa. Cyan broke down in tears, adding that the experience has scarred her emotionally, impacting her ability to trust or form new relationships.
4. Lil Wayne reportedly abused emergency pandemic loans
How wealthy musicians billed American taxpayers for luxury hotels, shopping trips and multimillion-dollar bonuses https://t.co/uujC9O5Dfh
— Business Insider (@BusinessInsider) December 18, 2024
Lil Waynethe five-time Grammy-winning rapper, is facing backlash after a Business Insider report claims he misused $8.9 million in pandemic relief funds from the Shuttered Venue Operators Grant (SVOG). The funds were intended to support arts organizations during COVID-19 and reportedly covered $1.3 million in private flights, $460,000 in apparel and $175,000 for a music festival to promote Wayne’s GKUA cannabis brand. In addition, significant payouts were made to Wayne’s former managers, Cortes Bryant And Mack Mainea total of over $3.8 million.
Other artists involved include Chris Brown And Rae Sremmurd. Brown reportedly received $10 million, with $5.1 million going directly to him and $80,000 spent on his 33rd birthday party. Rae Sremmurd’s tour group reportedly secured $7.7 million in relief funds. The revelations have sparked criticism as the SVOG was intended to help distressed venues and artists, rather than fund a luxury lifestyle.
5. Inter Miami trades Leo Campana to New England Revolution for a record $2.5 million
.@NERvolution adds a striker to their front line in Leo Campana. 🇪🇨
🗞️: https://t.co/4kg2sVEi6S pic.twitter.com/WdoR7tP4ZP
— Major League Football (@MLS) December 19, 2024
Inter Miami has parted ways with backup striker Leo Campana and traded him to the New England Revolution for a record $2.5 million in General Allocation Money (GAM), the clubs announced Thursday. The deal marks a new milestone for domestic MLS trade fees, with Miami receiving $2 million of the fee in 2025 and $500,000 in 2026. The Herons have also secured international roster slots for 2025 and 2026, as well as a sell-on percentage for any future transfer. involving the Ecuadorian striker. Additionally, Miami could earn up to $750,000 in GAM based on Campana’s performance with his new team.
Campana, who joined Inter Miami in 2023, scored 31 goals in 100 appearances in all competitions during his tenure at the club. His departure gives Miami more financial and roster flexibility as they look to rebuild following their exit from the first round of the MLS Cup Playoff. Meanwhile, the Revolution, who struggled with goals last season, are strengthening their attack with the proven striker. Sports director of Revolution Curt Onalfo described Campana as one “proven goalscorer” and an essential addition to the team’s attacking strategy.
Featured image: AB+DM Studio
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