Artiste Hangout with Femi Makx

ISRAEL OLUWAFEMI MAKANJUOLA
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  • MUSIC INTERVIEWS
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The Artiste Hangout with Femi Makx is a culture focused podcast that examines music not merely as entertainment, but as a reflection of society. Hosted by music journalist Femi Makx, the podcast explores the stories, ideas, and social forces shaping today’s music and creative landscape. Through in depth conversations and thoughtful analysis, each episode situates music within broader discussions on identity, youth culture, power, creativity, and everyday life in contemporary society. The Artiste Hangout offers listeners clarity and context, helping them understand what the music reveals abou

  1. Grammys 2026: Nigeria Snubbed? Tyla Wins, Fela Honored & Trevor Noah Roasts Trump & Nicki

    FEB 2

    Grammys 2026: Nigeria Snubbed? Tyla Wins, Fela Honored & Trevor Noah Roasts Trump & Nicki

    Welcome to The Artiste Hangout with Femi Makx, Abuja’s pulse on music, culture, and creative hustle. In this episode, we break down the 68th Annual Grammys with a fresh Nigerian perspective, spotlighting wins, snubs, and historic moments that shook the global music scene. From Tyla’s back-to-back Best African Music Performance win to Fela Kuti receiving the first-ever Grammy Lifetime Achievement Award for an African artist, we unpack what these milestones mean for Naija, the diaspora, and the future of Afrobeats worldwide. We also dive into the political statements, show-stopping speeches, and comedy roasts that had the internet buzzing. Trevor Noah’s sharp jabs, Billie Eilish’s pro-immigrant stance, and Bad Bunny making history as the first Spanish-language Album of the Year winner – we cover it all. As your host, Femi Makx, award-winning podcaster and music culture commentator, I bring you the insights, context, and Abuja energy you can’t get anywhere else. For this episode, I experimented with AI to enhance research, script structure, and cultural context, making The Artiste Hangout one of the first African music podcasts actively integrating AI in creative production. The Artiste Hangout with Femi Makx has massive streams across major listening platforms like Spotify and Apple Podcasts, topping charts in major countries. Akwaaba to my Ghanaians too – we were top 3 in music interviews on Apple Podcasts in Ghana, and ranking high across other African countries as well. Whether you’re a music lover, industry insider, or just curious about Naija’s footprint at the Grammys, this episode breaks down the wins, snubs, and controversies with honesty, humor, and journalistic precision. Listen, subscribe, and join the conversation: Let’s debate, celebrate, and connect over the music shaping 2026. Follow Femi Makx on X @femi_makx and tag your thoughts with #ArtisteHangoutGrammys.

    5 min
  2. REAL, Vol. 1: Is Wizkid Tapping Into Asake’s Wave?

    JAN 23

    REAL, Vol. 1: Is Wizkid Tapping Into Asake’s Wave?

    10,000+ Streams. 116 Countries. One Global Sound. The Artiste Hangout with Femi Makx is officially trending across 116 countries on Spotify, with Nigeria leading the charge. This isn’t just a numbers game—it’s proof that African stories, sounds, and creative conversations are resonating worldwide. In this episode, we dive into one of the biggest Afrobeats moments of 2026. Global superstars Wizkid and Asake dropped their highly anticipated collaborative EP, REAL, Vol. 1, on January 23, 2026, and the culture hasn’t stopped talking. The four-track project fuses Wizkid’s signature Starboy melodies with Asake’s raw street spirituality, log drums, and amapiano-leaning energy. We break down the full EP experience, highlighting standout tracks like Turbulence, Jogodo, Iskolodo, and Alaye, while unpacking the production mastery led by Magicsticks with contributions from 4Tunes. The numbers tell a story on their own. REAL, Vol. 1 debuted at #1 on Apple Music Nigeria and the UK, making history as the first African EP to top the UK chart. It’s also hitting #1 across multiple African countries and climbing fast in the US, Canada, Germany, and beyond. But this conversation goes deeper than charts. Is Wizkid strategically aligning with Asake at the peak of his street dominance the same way he linked with Burna Boy during the 2020–2021 global breakout? Or is this just organic respect between two kings of different generations? We analyze patterns, intentions, and what this collaboration means for the future of Afrobeats as a global force. From Nigeria to the world, this episode captures the pulse of culture, music, and influence shaping Africa’s sound today. Tap in if you haven’t. Stay locked if you have. The Artiste Hangout with Femi Makx Conversations. Culture. Creatives shaping Africa’s future.

    7 min
  3. Wizkid-Seun Kuti Feud vs. Nigeria’s Real Struggles

    JAN 23

    Wizkid-Seun Kuti Feud vs. Nigeria’s Real Struggles

    The Artiste Hangout with Femi Makx has officially crossed 10,000 streams and downloads on Spotify, trending in 116 countries worldwide, with Nigeria leading the global conversation. What started in Naija is now echoing across the world, powered by culture, honest conversations, and real stories from creatives shaping Africa’s future. In this episode, we break down the viral Wizkid and Seun Kuti feud that dominated Nigerian social media in January 2026. From fan culture and legacy debates to the weight of Fela Anikulapo-Kuti’s revolutionary impact, we go beyond the noise to unpack what truly happened, what was said, and why it sparked such intense reactions online. But this conversation does not stop at celebrity drama. We examine how high-profile music feuds distract Nigerian youths from urgent economic, political, and security challenges. With rising unemployment, inflation pressures, insecurity, and the road to the 2027 elections already taking shape, this episode asks the hard question: Are we paying attention to the right things as a generation? Featuring factual analysis, cultural context, and grounded insights, this episode connects music, activism, youth responsibility, and national priorities. It is a must-listen for audiences in Abuja, Lagos, Nigeria at large, and the global African diaspora who care about where the culture is going and what it should stand for. This is more than trending topics. This is about legacy, accountability, and the future of Nigeria. From Nigeria to the world, we are just getting started. Tap in if you haven’t. Stay locked if you have. Wizkid vs Seun Kuti explained Fela Kuti’s legacy and cultural ownership Celebrity influence and youth distraction Nigeria’s economic and political realities Afrobeats, activism, and generational conflict Social media, fan culture, and accountability #TheArtisteHangout #FemiMakx #Wizkid #SeunKuti #FelaKuti #NaijaRealTalk #AfrobeatsCulture #NigerianYouth #AfricanPodcast #SpotifyTrending

    5 min
  4. “Papaoutai” by Stromae Afro Soul: Why This Viral AI Remix Is Everywhere

    JAN 15

    “Papaoutai” by Stromae Afro Soul: Why This Viral AI Remix Is Everywhere

    Why is Stromae’s Papaoutai Afro Soul remix suddenly everywhere on TikTok, Instagram Reels, and Spotify in January 2026? In this episode of Artiste Hangout with Femi Makx, we dive into the viral phenomenon transforming a 2013 classic into a global Afro Soul sensation. The remix, credited to Chill77, mikeeysmind, and Unjaps (released late 2025), has racked up over 14 million Spotify streams and climbing charts worldwide. By replacing Stromae’s electronic original with African percussion, soulful vocals, choir layers, and Afrobeat rhythms, this version has become the go-to soundtrack for dances, travel vlogs, aesthetic edits, and emotional reels. We break down: • The story behind “Papaoutai” – Stromae’s tribute to his father lost in the 1994 Rwandan genocide and the haunting question, “Papa, où t’es?” (Dad, where are you?). • Why the Afro Soul twist hits differently – blending sorrow and groove, creating powerful contrasts in lighthearted viral content. • The AI remix debate – is this musical evolution fair to the original, or a new frontier for global sounds? • The virality factor – why the remix is dominating feeds in Abuja, Lagos, West Africa, and beyond. Whether you’re vibing nonstop or just curious, this episode explains the cultural resonance, emotional depth, and viral mechanics making this remix the sound of early 2026. 🎧 Listen now on Spotify: Search “Papaoutai (Afro Soul)” by Chill77 / mikeeysmind / Unjaps. 💬 Join the conversation: Do you prefer the remix or the original? Which viral video made you discover it? Comment, share, and subscribe for more insights into trending music. Hashtags: #Papaoutai #AfroSoul #Stromae #ViralMusic2026 #NaijaVibes

    8 min
  5. Sporty x Burna Boy “FOR EVERYBODY” & the Cultural Strategy of 2026

    JAN 15

    Sporty x Burna Boy “FOR EVERYBODY” & the Cultural Strategy of 2026

    In this episode of Artiste Hangout with Femi Makx, I deliver a detailed cultural and industry breakdown of Burna Boy’s highly anticipated 2026 debut single, “For Everybody”, a strategic collaboration with Sporty Group, owners of SportyTV and SportyBet, scheduled for release on January 16, 2026. Drawing on independent editorial judgment supported by AI-assisted research tools, the episode examines what this release represents beyond music. From the timing and messaging to the wider cultural strategy behind the rollout, the conversation explores how “For Everybody” is positioned to travel across global charts, digital platforms, and football culture. The episode also analyzes the visual direction of the record, including its football-centric video featuring international players such as Eduardo Camavinga, Éder Militão, Nico Williams, Iñaki Williams, and others, and what this signals about audience targeting, global reach, and brand alignment. Beyond the record itself, this episode interrogates Burna Boy’s ambassador relationship with Sporty Group and what it says about African artistes navigating global sport, media, and betting ecosystems. It is a broader discussion about ownership, influence, and the evolving intersection of music, culture, and commerce. From projected streaming performance to long-term implications for Afrobeats’ global positioning and Burna Boy’s post-No Sign of Weakness era, this episode offers a clear-headed, contextual analysis of power, strategy, and cultural intent.

    4 min
  6. Nights in the sun by Odeal & Wizkid Full Breakdown on Artiste Hangout

    JAN 13

    Nights in the sun by Odeal & Wizkid Full Breakdown on Artiste Hangout

    Odeal ft. Wizkid “Nights In The Sun” official music video just dropped! Artiste Hangout with Femi Makx reacts live—full breakdown of cinematic visuals, Bon la vida hook, Wizkid feature vibes, lyrics meaning & why it’s heating up Afrobeats playlists in 2026. Stream now & join the convo!

    5 min
  7. “Folded” by Kehlani: Vocal Spotlight & Why It’s Dominating Charts

    JAN 7

    “Folded” by Kehlani: Vocal Spotlight & Why It’s Dominating Charts

    In this must-listen premiere episode of the year, Femi delivers a solo deep-dive into Kehlani’s monumental hit “Folded” – the soulful anthem that exploded in June 2025 and continues to dominate in 2026. Peaking at No. 6 on the Billboard Hot 100 (Kehlani’s highest-charting solo single and her first Top 10 entry), earning Grammy nominations for Best R&B Song and Best R&B Performance, and igniting the star-studded Homage Pack with vocal legends like Brandy, Toni Braxton, JoJo, Mario, Ne-Yo, and Tank – “Folded” is a cultural force. Femi expertly unpacks the track’s emotional depth (reclaiming peace amid toxic cycles while embracing vulnerability), Kehlani’s elite vocal mastery – including breathy control, layered harmonies, and those iconic second-chorus riffs and runs that sparked endless viral challenges – plus the flawless production, stripped-back a cappella version, and its role in teasing Kehlani’s anticipated spring 2026 album. Essential for music lovers, aspiring vocalists, producers, and industry insiders searching for: Kehlani Folded breakdown, Kehlani Folded meaning explained, Kehlani riffs and runs analysis, Folded vocal techniques, Kehlani Homage Pack reactions, Billboard Hot 100 hits 2026, R&B song analysis, or in-depth music storytelling. 🎙️ Hosted by Femi Makx – Journalist | Media Personality | Broadcast Producer | Jollof Radio Team Choice Award Winner in Recognition of Outstanding Performance in Podcasting 📲 Stream now on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, YouTube, Amazon Music, and all major platforms 💬 Comment your favorite “Folded” moment or Homage Pack standout below! #Kehlani #Folded #KehlaniFolded #VocalBreakdown #RiffsAndRuns #MusicPodcast #ArtisteHangout #FemiMakx #RNBMusic #2026Music #BillboardHits #GrammyNoms

    4 min
  8. Shallipopi Auracle Album Review and Predictions

    12/03/2025

    Shallipopi Auracle Album Review and Predictions

    On this episode of The Artiste Hangout Podcast with Femi Makx, we dive into Shallipopi’s highly anticipated Auracle album. We discuss possible challenges including oversaturation, repeated formulas, album bloat, feature-heavy tracks, and shallow songwriting. Then we explore the exciting potential with standout songs, the Laho series, and collaborations with Burna Boy, Rauw Alejandro, and Gunna. We predict how Auracle could impact Shallipopi’s career, expand his global reach, and shape the Nigerian and international music scene in 2025. The podcast episode cover image was generated by AI for illustrative purposes only. It is not intended to replicate or replace the original Auracle album cover, and any quotes or references fall under fair use.

    7 min
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Trailer

4.9
out of 5
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About

The Artiste Hangout with Femi Makx is a culture focused podcast that examines music not merely as entertainment, but as a reflection of society. Hosted by music journalist Femi Makx, the podcast explores the stories, ideas, and social forces shaping today’s music and creative landscape. Through in depth conversations and thoughtful analysis, each episode situates music within broader discussions on identity, youth culture, power, creativity, and everyday life in contemporary society. The Artiste Hangout offers listeners clarity and context, helping them understand what the music reveals abou

Information

  • Creator
    ISRAEL OLUWAFEMI MAKANJUOLA
  • Years Active
    2021 - 2026
  • Episodes
    73
  • Rating
    Explicit
  • Copyright
    © ISRAEL OLUWAFEMI MAKANJUOLA
  • Show Website
    Artiste Hangout with Femi Makx

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