Partying MTV Africa @ 5

BY CHUKS NWANNE
All of a sudden, Tribeca Nite Club, Victoria Island, Lagos, has become the choice venue for most event organisers. Just few months after the opening, the club has already hosted major shows including Femi Kuti’s Grammy reception party, Mr. Nigeria contest, Beat FM party and numerous album launch gigs.
One wonders why the building has suddenly taken over top rated concerts in Lagos. Could it be for the location or the state of the art equipment, which the club boasts of? Well, the reason is best known to event organisers, who seem to be bent on staging their gigs there.
However, Tribeca club got more than it could handle recently, when MTV Networks Africa and LG Mobile teamed up to celebrate the fifth birthday of music channel, MTV Base.
The celebrity-studded show, which featured notable Nigerian artistes on stage, also witnessed the official launch of LG Chocolate phone series – BL40 and BL20.
By 8pm that evening, Adetokunbo Ademola Street was jam-packed with all sorts of vehicles ranging from SUVs to posh cars… just name it. The packing that night practically reduced the roads to single lane each; in fact, there was no parking space. Most guests had to make do with Bar Beach, but not without settling the area boys, who must have made enough cash that night just keeping watch over the cars.
From the main gate to the poolside where the performances held, the whole place was filled to capacity, yet hundreds of guests were still at the gate with their IVs, struggling to gain access into the venue. It got to the point that the organisers had to temporarily shut the gate in a bid to create more spaces in the already jam-packed venue; it was a night of ‘who is who’ in the country’s entertainment industry.

With frontline DJs such as Jimmy Jatt and DJ Humility on the console, you don’t expect anything less than the best. Regarded as the best in the country, both DJs surely gave good account of themselves.
The stage, which was constructed on top of the swimming pool, came under heavy performance from the likes of Mr. Capable Banky W, Eldee, Omawunmi, MI and Naeto C, who were specially contracted by MTV to thrill guests all through the night. Other entertainers at the party include DJ Zeez, Azadus, Kevin Chuwang Pam (Big Brother Africa), Mode 9, Djinee, Knight House, Sound Sultan, YQ, Jesse Jagz, Lamii, Kel, Kanayo O Kanayo, Dakore Egbuson, ID Ogungbe and other distinguished guests.
Though not a night of Long speech, the General Manager, LG Mobile Communication, Mr. Steve Koh, congratulated MTV Networks Africa for delivering high quality entertainment through its MTV base channel over the last five years.
Koh noted that the partnership between LG Mobile and MTV is part of efforts to enhance the visibility of LG Mobile as a trendy, hippy and fashionable brand, stressing that both brands have a lot in common and much more to deliver on the platform of this partnership.
“We at LG Mobile are very passionate about what we stand for as a brand — innovation, stylish design and reliability. The partnership between LG Mobile and MTV Networks Africa is pursuant to these values. There is no better place to restate these values than a place like this. This is gathering of stars, respected for their excellence in service and performance especially among the teeming population of Nigerians and people from all walks of life.”
According to the GM, “the Chocolate - BL40 and BL20 are precious mobile devices specially designed to accentuate your statement of class. We reckon that Nigerians, and indeed Africans, fans and friends of MTV and the array of stars here present, deserve a touch of class and the Chocolate phones from LG Mobile comes handy, on time and on this day to spice this celebration of achievement that has redefined entertainment in the past five years.”
A complete touch screen mobile device and fourth in the Black Label Series of mobile phones, Koh informed that, “the LG Chocolate BL40 phone has a 4.0 inch wide HD LCD screen with 800x345 pixel resolution to maximize visual experience. This allows combination of a range of natural colours, create sharper photos, make videos more true-to-life, games more natural and documents are more readable. With its 5mega pixel camera, the LG Chocolate BL20 combines state-of-the-art technology with beautiful designs features such as auto and flash that enable it deliver the highest performance.”
Banky W, Eldee, Omawunmi, MI and Naeto C were among the first set of Nigerians to own the sleek mobile phone; they got it free of charge at the event; though Banky W gave out his freely to one of his fans just few minutes after the presentation.


HOMEFRONT

MUSON Choir recreates St. John Passion
The MUSON choir accompanied by the MUSON Symphony Orchestra, will today recreate Johann Sebastian Bach’s St. John Passion. Scheduled to hold at the Agip Recital Hall of the MUSON Centre, Onikan, Lagos, the concert will kick off at 6pm, under the baton of Emeka Nwokedi.
In the cast for the the work that tells the story of the death of Jesus Christ, are seasoned artistes including Oguchi Egbunine, a fine tenor who plays the role of Evangelist linking other principal characters and the choir. Others are John-Paul Ochei (Bass) who acts Jesus; Taiwo Jayeola (Bass) playing the role of Peter and Uzo Emenanna (Bass) playing Pilate’s role.
Other soloists are Francesca Boyo (Soprano), Mary-Ann Agetu (Soprano), John Eclou/Stanley Okoli (Tenor) and Obinna Ifediora (Bass), while Tosin Ajayi, and Alaba Akinselure, will man the organ.


Black Night with Mode Men
All is set for this year’s edition of the Mode Men magazine’s anniversary show tagged Black Night. Now in it’s fourth edition, the show, which is conceived as a black carpet show, is billed for Saturday, April 3, at the Marque, Federal Palace Hotel, Victoria Island, with a special dinner for guests.
The event will be spiced with music performances, fashion show, comedy and a raffle draw, with proceeds from the auction going to charity.
According to the publisher of the bi-monthly lifestyle magazine that celebrates men and their achievement, Abubakar Tafewa Balewa, the celebration will not be only about eating and drinking as funds will be raised for charity purposes as part of its social responsibility.
“Nigeria being the most populous black nation in the world, we are iconic in the celebration of the African/Nigerian man. We also intend to use the occasion to raise funds for an orphanage in Lagos, as a way of our social responsibility.”
To be anchored by the duo of Leroy Owugah and Bimbo Akintola, notable among entertainers billed to grace the event are the King of comedy Ali Baba, Julius Agu, Basket Mouth and AY, J. Martins, Jesse Jagz, Jaywon, Femi Adeyinka, Silver Saddih, Lim Gizzy and Emco amongst others. Five top Nigerian fashion designers will also showcase their new collections on the runway at the event supported by Wisemen Apparel, Federal Palace Hotel and Cytech communications.
It would be recalled that last year’s edition of the show raised funds for the purchase of goods for Pacelli School for the Blind, Surulere, Lagos and Dooshima Education Foundation in Makurdi, Benue state.

Nigeria artistes back Yaw’s Private Lies
Top rated Nigerian artistes have thrown their weight behind broadcaster Steve Onu (Yaw), who will be staging a play, Private Lies, today at the MUSON Centre, Onikan, Lagos. The artistes are expected to spice up the event with performances.
Written by Tyrone E. Terrence and produced by Yaw, the four man casts will feature the popular broadcaster, Steve Onu and actor Jude Orhorha (Gbenro of the award winning sitcom, Fuji House of Commotion). It will also feature the duo of Sontonye Green and Kaybee Emokpaire, up coming acts, who were discovered during an auditioning for the play.
According to Yaw, a Theatre Arts graduate of the Lagos State University (LASU), the play is being staged as part of his efforts to revive live theatre in the country.
“Live theatre cannot die because it has been there for ages and will continue to live. Also, the message of the play is very vital to us as Nigerians, whih informed my choice of selecting it.”
With Emma Uduma as director, Private Lies is a story of love told via an intricate web of lies, hatred and betrayal. Two couples; Jeff and Barbara on one side, and Sam and Rose on the other, find themselves locked in a familiar but yet complicated situation that will see them sacrifice years of friendship as well as nuptial vows to satisfy their most pedestal passion.
The first show is expected to kick off at 4pm, with performances from Ruggedman, J Martins, Jaywon, Dagrin, Obiwon and General Pype. While the second show billed for 7pm will feature Ali Baba, Basket Mouth, Teju Babyface, Koffi, Owen Gee, Klint Da Drunk, Ay, Tee A, Seyi Law, Emeka Smith, 9ice, Banky W, Weird MC and MI.
For every ticket purchased, the audience will have the opportunity to shop at Sixth Sense between April 2 and 5, at a discount rate, while designer OUCH will be giving away lots of gifts for every VIP ticket. There will be free Power Horse drinks, while ten lucky guests will get return tickets to Abuja courtesy of DANA Air.

One-on-one...with Anason

Orifayo Anasifayo (aka Anason) relocated to Lagos from Bauchi as result of the crisis in the state in 1991 to pursue his childhood dream — music. The reggae artiste from Ugboshi-Ele, Edo State, is set to launch his debut album titled Okada Man. He speaks with DANIEL ANAZIA.

How did you get into music?
Music runs in my family. My father is a musician, but not a professional. I have been in music for over 20 years. I was with the Police Band, Ikeja, Lagos, before I moved to Bauchi, however, I had to relocate as a result of the 1991 crisis in the state.

Why music?
Music is life, without it, life will be boring. Music rejuvenates soul and helps keep the spirit alive, especially philosophical ones such as reggae, afro-beat and highlife.

What’s your genre of music?
I play reggae with a fusion of afro-beat. At a time, I was doing highlife, but switched because of its deep philosophy and rhythms. It enables you pass messages to people and edifies the mind.

Why Reggae?
Reggae artistes are like prophets, they tell the future, using present happenings. Bob Marley, Peter Tosh, Lucky Dube and Majek Fashek others are still relevant to the society. Their music is evergreen because of their messages. The music enables one to think deep.

With your album, what messages are you trying to pass on?
The eight track-album is loaded with words of exhortation to both elders and youths. Parents should take care of the children, train them to be useful to themselves and the society and never to be a problem to anyone. Youths on the other hand, should listen to the elders and their parents, accept their godly counsels to become better persons in life. Okada man is one of such tracks. It talks about the safety of the riders; and why they don’t need to be reckless on the highway.

Influence
Bob Marley, Lucky Dube, Majek Fashek and Peter Tosh. The music of Fela Anikulapo-Kuti also gives me great inspiration.

Performance so far
Though, I am yet to feature in any big event, I strongly believe with my album launch, concerts and tours will come knocking for me.

When is the album hitting the shelf?
Hopefully July, when all would have been set.

How would you like to be remembered?
Like the Catholic Nun, Mother Theresa, I want to very close to the poor and down trodden.

What’s your philosophy of life?
Live for mankind.

Day Basket Mouth, Banky W, Eldee, MI others rocked O2 Arena

BY CHUKS NWANNE
You recall the prestigious O2 Arena in London? Yes, the same venue where the late King of Pop, Michael Jackson, had planned to stage his This Is It concert before his painful exit? That was where Nigeria’s comedy merchant, Bright Okpocha, otherwise known as Basket Mouth, staged the maiden edition of his comedy show, Lord Of The Ribs.
The Abia State native was not alone on the trip to the Queen’s territory; Mr. Capable, Banky W, Eldee, 116, JJC, Ice Prince and Jesse Jagz joined him in the concert that attracted hundreds of guests - mostly black - to the venue, which had in the past hosted concerts by superstars such as Madonna, Spice Girls, Kanye West, Elton John, Kylie Minogue, Britney Spears, Paul McCartney, Tom Jones, Celine Dion, Steve Wonder and others. Aside for the 500 spaces mandatorily reserved in case of emergency - in line with the agreement in the insurance policy he bought for the show — the 2500 capacity hall was filled to the brim.

The stage came alive with 116 Squad, who opened the show with their captivating performance, followed by the popular JJC group, before Big Boy crooner, Eldee took over the stage. Eldee was at his best, belting out songs from his repertoire, but it was his hit track, Bosi Gban Gba, that caught the fancy of the audience.
Hip-hop/R&B singer, Banky W gave good account of his rating as he rocked the large crowd with some of his popular tracks. Strong Thing, one of Banky’s latest works, is currently enjoying massive airplay on radio and TV stations across the country. No doubt, the returnee artiste has succeeded in winning the hearts of most young Nigerians, which is slightly different from the usual hip beat. His brand of music has earned him several awards within his short period of playing in the industry.
Rave of the moment, MI took over the big stage after Banky W. The black, short boy from the crisis-torn Jos led the audience through his usual interactive session with his unique rap lines. The petit rapper proved to whoever cares, that Nigeria could hold it’s ground even outside her shores. MI got several rounds of applause for his rap, which is not too far from Sage’s spoken word; both men sound alike in most cases.
Ice Prince and Jesse Jagz also got their slots to gig the audience, but comedian Basket Mouth was the center of attraction for the evening. The crowd went wild in excitement at the appearance of the dreadlocks-wearing comedian; of course, he was impressive. His jokes were fresh, most times painting a picture of the real life situations in the country.

To cap the colourful night, Basketmouth teamed up with MI, Banky W, Eldee the Don, Ice Prince and Jesse Jagz in a rap track that got him a standing ovation from the excited crowd. For the host comedian, who started his entertainment sojourn with rap music, it was a nostalgic moment that almost brought him to tears.
“After resting Basket Mouth Uncensored, starting bigger and upping the ante is the best way to start Lord of the Rib. The show was big, successful and profitable, which is very rare in the history of comedy show. The show meets every parameters one uses to measure successful shows. I thank God and my team for the success story,” the Globacom Ambassador boasts.




ONE-ON-ONE... with EL-BLAZE
CHRISTENED Lawrence Agbo at birth, but known as El-Blaze in the music industry, the Benue State native is a delight to talk with. El-Blaze, who holds a National Diploma in Accounting from the Nuhu Bamali Polytechnic, Zaria, began his romance with music at an early age, but cut his proverbial teeth in the industry, when he won talent hunt show, Public Delight Musical Show in Zaria. From there, his interest in music was bolstered. He tells DANIEL ANAZIA his plans for the future and his upcoming album.

How was growing up like?
It was fun, loving and memorable. I’m from a family of three, two boys and a girl, who we lost when she was eight years. My father is a farmer and my mother now late, was a petty trader. My brother and I are jolly good fellows; though sometimes, we disagree on some issues.

Why the name EL-BLAZE?
The word blaze means fire, brightness and brilliance. Looking at all these, I told myself, ‘Lawrence you are like fire, set the world aflame with your lyrics and beats through your style and shine like a diamond.’

How did you get into music?
I have always loved music from my childhood; I always loved watching musical videos. Basically, I started writing songs in my secondary school days. Every Friday, during free class periods and after school hours, I entertained my friends with my songs. I’ve been involved in some musical groups and I’m a member of my church choir.

What brand of music do you play?
I play hip-pop, R&B with native flavours.

Why native?
When I say native flavour, it doesn’t mean I don’t do songs in English. What I’m saying is, if you look at the Nigerian music industry now, you will see that those making waves now are artiste with native flavours in the style of music. Look at 9ice, Tuface Idibia, Nigga Raw, MC Loph, Sound Sultan and host of others, they have remained relevant and their songs still maintaining a place in the chart. One good thing about this is that, it has helped to bring out the originality and creativity in us.

Your track, The Guy is Mine, what’s it all about?
It’s about the fights among ladies over the male folks; I wrote the song after witnessing one of such fights sometime ago. It’s like an advice to them to desist from that show of shame.

What’s the title of your upcoming album?
No title yet, but it is a call to patriotism, change and unity among the people. It’s a 10-track album and I’m hoping to collaborate some top artiste. I’m currently discussing with my big brothers, Tuface, Blackface and Da Natives on the album. If things work out the way I expect, I hope to have Sound Sultan, Mode 9, Ruggedman and Jona Da Monarch.

Who are your Influences?
I’m fascinated by good lyrics and beats. Tuface Idibia inspires me more; each time I see him, I reassure myself of making it to the top someday.

Any major performance/concert so far?
I hope to be in some of the mega concerts like Star Trek, Star Mega Jamz, MTN Music Fiesta and others very soon. This is the main reason I’m working very hard for the album and with the right people.

What would you wan to be remembered for?
I want to be remembered as the guy that made impact in peoples’ lives, especially the youths.

Onos, Keep Moving

BY CHUKS NWANNE
The publicity drive for official launch of her debut album, Keep Moving, was massive, especially online, where some lucky members of her facebook group won complementary invitation cards to the event. Everyone looked forward to the day; even the artiste had a sort of countdown to the show online.
To many, the venue of any launch and the quality of artistes on parade, to a large extent, give an insight to the strength of the host artiste. Little wonder Onos Bikawei opted for the prestigious Grand Ball Room, Eko Hotel & Suites for her launch, with notable artistes such Timi Dakolo and Eric (of Idols West Africa), Lara George, Sammie Okposo, Efe and others on parade. The expectation was high.
As at 4pm on the D-day, guests had started arriving one by one, group by group, with a special red carpet reception. Before long, the hall was full with friends, colleagues, celebrities and family members of the artistes, with her parents seated at a strategic part of the hall–– not too far from the stage, which was jam-packed with all sorts of musical instruments; it was a live show.
Her producer, Flo, alongside some notable artistes, including Sammie Okposo, who arrived the venue in the company of actress, Ufuoma Ejenobor, cornered another part of the hall to themselves. The likes of Timi Dakolo and Eric preferred strolling up and down in expectation, as guests awaited the appearance of Onos. The turnout was impressive.
The live band ensured there was no dull moment, until the anchormen; MC Abbey and Steve Onuh (Yaw of Wazobia FM) took charge of the stage. Abbey was at his best, reeling out jaw-dropping jokes, while Yaw, the broadcaster he is, kept him under control; the comedian touched almost every aspect of the country, even the ailing president formed part of his materials.

ONOS’s first appearance was greeted with rounds of applause and cheers from the audience. She made her way to the stage through the back door, clutching a microphone with both hands. Dramatically, she took time to exchange pleasantries with guests, shaking and waving hands to her fans. But to her parents, she gave hugs. You need not ask how happy the young lady was after months of working on the album; it was written all over her face.
Her stage performance was energetic, with the band backing up on instrumentation. From slow to fast beat, Onos held the gathering spellbound. “She’s different,” a guest observed. Yes, the difference is clear in her compositions and vocals strength. She was in full control of the band, keeping eye contact with her band members at every point.
Timi, Lara, Eric, Sammie Okposo, Efe and other raised the tempo of the night with their electrifying performance, but Onos’ Dance, one of the tracks in the new work, was the attraction; the reception was huge. The likes of Sammie and Flo, could not hold back too long as they were caught digging it live on stage with Onos, who treated the guests to the best of her music.
“Bringing out this album was very challenging,” Onos says. “I funded the whole project myself because I had no sponsor. There’s competition out there, so, to be on top of my game, I had to do something that people could easily relate to. If you listen to Dance, I started with English and at some point, switched to pidgin, before wrapping up in my local dialect. If you don’t listen to the words properly, you might not even know it’s a gospel track.”

TO make the best out of the album, Onos involved Flo and ID Cabassa, who also feature in one of the tracks, in the production.
“I spent sometime putting together this album because I wanted a quality production. I decided to work with tested hands to achieve desired result.”
On the choice of Cabassa, who is noted for making secular beats, Onos says, “it was deliberate; I wanted to achieve a mixture of sounds, so, I needed people who could interpret sounds in their own unique way; producers have their strengths, but If you know I D Cabassa, then you will understand that he doesn’t do just any job.”
To the Waffarian, the choice of Keep Moving as the title for the work featuring Lara George, Mike Aremu and others, is deliberate.
“When you have dreams, you have to be very passionate about it; you need to push for it. I settled for the title just to let people know that they should keep moving in realising their dreams.”
Though a gospel work, Onus observed that, “people tend to lay rules for artistes, but to me, it’s a form of expression. Gospel is about sending good messages. We might want to say the same thing, but we have different ways of doing just that. When you hear Keep Moving, it means don’t stop; live your dreams, do what God has called you to do and be the best the best that you can.”
As for inspiration, “different things inspire me to write songs. There is a song in the album titled I Don Tire to Dey Waka Waka; I wrote that song after producers had turned me down several times. Different events and situations inspire me to write my songs.”

Though Onos started singing in the church at the tender age of six, her professional career in music took off in 2006, when she started performing at events. By 2008, the French graduate from the Delta State University, recorded her first single, Dance, which is currently enjoying airplay on radio and TV stations across the country.
As for her debut album, which is already on music shelves, Onos is leaving that to the general public to judge.
“I don’t want to start blowing my trumpet now. So far, the response has been very fantastic and I am confident it will be something different. But it’s left for people to listen to it and make their comments.”






One-on-one with F-STINCT
Born Olufunmilayo Modupe George, the Microbiology graduate of the University of Agriculture Abeokuta, is out to make a mark with her gospel hip-hop, fused with rap, R&B, dancehall and a bit of highlife. Popularly called F-STINCT on the music scene, Funmi, who is currently working on her debut album, The Quest, speaks to DANIEL ANAZIA on her plans to pass the message of Jesus Christ to the young generation through her music.

How was it like growing up?
Growing up was fun because I have a close-knit family. I’m the first girl and second child in a family of five –– two girls and a boy. I’m a Lagosian, but was born in Ibadan . My formative years, was in the ancient town of Ibadan , though I proceeded to Abeokuta for my higher education.

How it did you get into music?
We are musically inclined in my family; everyone in the family has unique musical ability that stands him/her out. My dad, mum and siblings have natural music abilities. I started singing from a very tender age; I was involved in various musical groups both within and outside the church. While I was at UNAAB, I was a member of a four-man group, The Revelators. It was a gospel hip-hip group and we performed within and outside the campus.

What is your style of music?
I’m a hip-hop artiste; I do more of gospel hip-hop, R&B, and rap. I intend exploring a variety of other musical styles by infusing different beats and genres into my own style. The aim is to develop my creativity. When I say different beats, I mean highlife, dancehall and other beats, which I’m working on right now.

Any major concert/performance so far?
Not really mega events like The Experience, MTN Music Festival and others, but I’ve performed at the DJ Gosporella’s Mixtape, Combo Phonix Jamz, One-Stick Music Concert and so many church appearances.

Your upcoming album, The Quest, what is it all about?
Our society is filled with so much moral decadence, especially among the youths. I intend to reduce this through my kind of music by passing on the gospel of Jesus Christ to this generation in a way the youth will understand it. It is also a pursuit of an ambition. All these immoralities such as prostitution, armed robbery, drug trafficking… are geared towards the ‘get rich-quick’ syndrome, which is common among Nigerian youths today. Shortcut and straight-forwardness are two parallel lines that can never meet.

So, when is it hitting music shelves?
It’s going to be a 9-track work, but with lots of varieties. It will be in the market before the third quarter of the year. We are seriously working on it and when it finally comes, it’s going to be a bomb.

Who are your influences?
…The likes of Kirk Franklin, Cece Winnas and Cross Movement influence me a lot. Trigga, MC Loph, Willisino are my pals in the industry.

What would you want to be remembered for?
(Laughs), with the help of God, I hope to build a lasting career in music, especially in gospel genre. Through my message, I want to influence the youth positively. I also hope to set up a non-governmental organisation that will focus on the youths with unique talents, nurture and help bring them to limelight. I will like to have a standard gospel Nite Club, where Christians could hangout like we have in conventional clubs.




HOMEFRONT
From Left: Keffe, Bouqui, Omawunmi and Annie at the event

Keffe, Omawunmi, Bouqui, Anne shine in UK
Nigeria was on the spotlight last week in the UK – this time, in a positive news - as three of her female artistes outshined their counterparts from other African countries at the Women In Entertainment & Arts (WIEA) Awards, held at Marriott Hotel, 22 Hertsmere Rd, Canary Wharf, London.
Idols West Africa’s Omawunmi got the award for Best Singer, while Annie was presented with the Best Gospel award. Rapper Bouqui was declared Best Rap Artiste, while Branama Queen, Keffe, clinched the Best Musician award at the event organised to raise fund in support of the Kanu Heart Foundation and Breast Cancer Care.
In a brief online chat with Life magazine, Keffe, who’s yet to jet into the country, was full of joy.
“I feel great and I’m happy things are turning out for me this way. I dedicate the award to my fans all over the world; na who know me before,” she sings.
Organised by WIEA, the award was instituted to encourage African female artistes for their contribution to the entertainment industry. This year’s edition, which had the Super Eagles Captain, Kanu Nwanwo and other dignitaries in attendance, featured performances from Keffe, Bouqui, Omawunmi and others.

Soundcity in early preparation for SMVA 2010
Nigeria’s foremost lifestyle, music and entertainment TV channel, Soundcity, has commenced preparation for this year’s edition of Soundcity Music Video Award (SMVA). Billed for October 1 (Independence Day), at the new Exhibition Hall, Eko Hotel & Suites, Victoria Island, Lagos, the ceremony is being organized as part of activities to mark the country’s Golden Jubilee.
Billed to open at 6pm, with a special red carpet reception, dovetailing into the awards proper, the award will also feature Winners Concert, expected to last into the early hours of the previous day.
“We are committed to the recognition of the efforts of artistes, video producers and directors, whose strengths and abilities have been able to put Nigerian and African music videos on a global pedestal, helping the Soundcity channel maintain our reputation of adding value to life with the power of music,” said Tajuddeen Adepetu, Executive Producer of SMVA, and Chief Executive Officer of Consolidated Media Associates, Soundcity’s parent body.
He continues: “As you very well know, Soundcity is the 24-hour urban lifestyle channel, dedicated all the time with music videos, lifestyle content and interactive programming that is influenced by the viewers; and it is Nigeria’s premier medium that represents a repertoire of encompassing music videos - as far as it is music and it is good to someone’s eyes as it is to the ears”.
Activities kick-starting the 2010 edition of the Soundcity Music Video Awards are to be announced soon.

D’banj partners Mouka on Koko mattress
Foam-manufacturing company, Mouka has entered into partnership with D’banj; the two brands entered a commercial arrangement to leverage on each other.
Under the arrangement, Mouka is expected to produce beautifully branded Koko mattresses with Dbanj’s hit tracks written all over it. The company, on its part, promised that the mattress would come with all the trappings of the Mouka brand behind it, which include quality and durability.
Speaking after the ceremony, Adebajo described the arrangement as a win-win partnership, adding that Mouka will bring its time tested technological base into play.
“D’banj is a role model and a businessman who has focus and a vision for tomorrow. He’s an upwardly mobile figure in the entertainment industry that will find Mouka’s years and wealth of experience beneficial.
Dbanj revealed he had waited for long before the deal pulled through, commending Mouka for their support and understanding.
“The idea of producing Koko mattress came as I was researching on ways of reaching the youths in the country and letting them know that they can become anything they choose to be in life. I remember when I was in secondary school; I used to change my mattress every term. That was how the idea came to me before I approached Mouka for partnership.”
Dbanj said, “a good rest on Koko mattress after a hard day at school, will ensure that students wake up fresh the next day and I have Mouka to thank for that.”

Nneka goes to Jazzhole
MOBO Award winner, Nneka Eguna, will on Friday, March 12, perform live at the Jazzhole, 168 Awolowo Road, Ikoyi, Lagos. Billed to start at 7pm with N5000 gate fee, the evening will see Nneka entertain the gathering with her full band; for sure, Nneka is a live artiste.
In February 2008, the Germany-based-Nigerian-artiste, released a follow-up to her debut album, No Longer at Ease, a title she borrowed from a novel of the same name by Chinua Achebe and reflects the lyrical content of the record. Most of the songs are political, talking about the plight of the Niger Delta and the corruption in Nneka’s homeland. The songs are a mixture of soul, hip-hop and reggae.
However, the lead single from the work, Heartbeat, became her first song to break into the German Top 50. By September 2009, the song entered the UK Singles Chart at number 20, while the following months saw the Anambra State native tours France, Italy and Portugal; she also supported Lenny Kravitz on his French tour in April 2009.
Nneka got three nominations at the 2009 Channel O Music Video Awards, though she lost all. But the big one came when she was awarded Best African Act at the 2009 MOBO Awards.
For those, who plan to attend, expect Nneka’s usual yabis; maybe, not too far from what she displayed at the Ion International Film Festival held last year in Port Harcourt–– she said it as it is!

BY CHUKS NWANNE
Though he’s making his mark in journalism working as an entertainment reporter with The Sun newspapers for years and now with the National Life on the same beat, music making is another side of Tony Ogaga Erhariefe, which many do not know about. In fact, he actually started out a musical artist before delving into journalism. Today, Ogaga, as he’s fondly called in the entertainment industry, is gradually retracing his steps back to his first love, even as he remains a journalist.

OGAGA developed special interest in music at a very tender age after listening to the New Edition’s Candy Girl. For him, if the group, which was made up teenagers, could come up with that album, then he too can. Luckily, he had an elder brother, Ese, whom he describes as his greatest musical influence.
“Though he has no album to his credit, he always sang with me at home those days; I’ve always wanted to sing like him.”
Teaming up with the likes of Justice Atigogo, Yomi, Lilian and Ola in Festac Town, Lagos, Ogaga started Gold Feet, an Afro-Pop music group. Though they had the dreams of becoming recording stars someday, the group failed in its effort to come up with quality recordings.
After Gold Feet went into limbo, Ogaga hooked up with his elder brother, Eduvie (Lord Flash), who’s now a Dominican Priest, and they started another group, Fire and Fury, around early 90s.
“That was the age of the reel to reel recording; software was still a long way off then. We recorded tracks such as Boat of Love, When She Says No, Party Night, Are You Ready etc.”
The group later re-branded into Heart & Soul, with R&B singer, Steve Ferguson and Thompson Okonobi, popularly called Tommy Smart, joining. They spent long hours rehearsing their songs, but the dream was short lived as they all got admission into school and faced their individual academic pursuit.
Ogaga was at the University of Benin between 1992 and 1996, where he studied Linguistics, before heading for Nasarawa State for his National Youth Service. It was after his NYSC that it dawned on him that of all Heart & Souls members; he was the only one still willing to pursue the dream.
“It was heart breaking,” he frowns. “We did everything together, shared our dreams together, and they abandoned me halfway. I was particularly mad at my elder brother (Lord Flash); he’d always done everything for me.”

AFTER a brief stint with a group led by African Prince (Victor Iketubosun), Ogaga went solo again, with the aim of recording his works someday. As at that time, his elder brother had joined the seminary school.
“For a couple of years, I was just drifting. Then in 2001, I did my first R&B recording, Giant In U, at Strong Towers Studio. The job was produced by Joe Ojas, who later emerged Best Producer AMEN Awards 2002,” he recalls.
It was while working on his second track that Ogaga met Rabbi of the now defunct Def O Clan, who co produced his track Bandits in Uniform, alongside Remi. The track focused on corrupt security officials but the amateur video shot on camcorder by DXF, was equally controversial. “Within its first week on air, the song got to number 4 on Emma Ogosi’s MBI Top 10 Countdown. However, due to its controversial message, most TV and radio stations did not air it and it was later withdrawn from circulation.”
With his song out of circulation, Ogaga withdrew from music and joined The Sun newspapers in 2002 as a reporter, but later moved to National Life in 2007 as the Deputy Showbiz Editor.

AFTER a long break from music, the journalist/musician has completed work on his debut album, which he tentatively entitled Shakara. The 20 tracker Afro-pop work has songs such as Bandits In Uniform (remix), Giant In U, Party Tyme, Kiribumbum, Wahala De, Allah Na Gode, Ya Kpe Obaro, But Why, Baby Wuye, No Fear and others. Aside from Giant In U, which was produced by the duo of George Nathaniel and Forster Zeeno; Remi produced all other tracks, with Ogaga co-producing.
“For me, music is purely a passion; I’m not into it because I want to make money. I see music as a veritable tool of expressing my innermost feelings and ideology. Most of my songs are either motivational or touching on social issues. I use my music as a tool in preaching about the need to discover oneself and one’s potentials. I tried running away from music, but something keeps bringing me back. I’ve finally accepted my fate knowing that my future would not be complete unless as a singer.”
Meanwhile, The Down Syndrome Association of Nigeria (DSAN) has endorsed Tony Ogaga’a Giant In U as its theme song. In a letter addressed to the artiste signed by the group’s Media & Publicity Officer, Kanu Ahaoma, the group says, “we are glad to inform you that your song, Giant in U, has been adopted as the theme song for DSAN. We find the lyrics inspiring hence our decision to identify with it. Henceforth, the track would be performed at all DSAAN events both locally and internationally.”





His music is change
BY ABOSEDE MUSARI
Though an upcoming artiste, Moses Paul, otherwise known as MO, could simply be described as a gospel singer with different flavour. He’s in love with soft rock, just as he’s attracted to hip-hop and other genres of music. In fact, he describes himself as unconventional.
With two albums to his credit, while work on the third is on going, MO prefers touching people’s lives, singing about love and life, rather than the usual songs about Jesus.
“About 20 to 25 years ago, gospel singing was only about Jesus, but we can actually sing about life, love, and giving; God is all of these. I’ve always believed that the gospel means good news, not only about Jesus.”
He continues: “If you sing about love and bring healing to homes, that’s good news. Whatever it is that can put smiles on people’s faces is good news. I’m a gospel artist not because I sing about Jesus but because I sing about love, life and change,” he says.
Mo’s unconventional view about gospel singing began during his days as a choirboy in church; he joined the group at 10, but later took over five years later. It was in the group that he learnt the basics of singing.
For sure, Mo didn’t like the usual way songs were rendered, so, he decided to change the style.
“I took over the choir and brought in people, who thought they could not sing because my idea of singing is different.”
Professionally, Mo started singing eight years ago when he released his first solo effort, Make A Difference, followed by Shakabula. The works are a fusion of soft rock, hip-hop, rap and dance hall.
For the third album, Be The Change, the gospel singer is working with some notable Nigerian artistes including the self-styled Area Fada.
“I’m working it at the moment and I’m bringing Charley Boy, Samsong and others on board. I opted for Charley Boy because I like his kind of person; he represents change. I’m for change, Jesus is about change.”
The geographer turned musician also has a dream for Nigeria.
“I want to see a N100 shop, where products will be sold for N100. I want to see people buying their houses at young age. I want to see corruption dead. I want to make a difference in the music world with quality and excellent works. I want to see Nigeria being able to use music as a tool to make a change.”





HOMEFRONT
BY CHUKS NWANNE

Blacktribe denies feud with Faze
Though it’s yet to get to the public domain, there are feelers that the long-standing relationship between the Kolomental crooner Faze and hip-hop group, Blacktribe, has gone sour.
This is not unconnected with a verse in one of the lyrics in the group’s (Blacktribe) new album, Addicted. The track, which is rumoured to be causing controversy in Festac Town -- where the acts reside -- is titled Wondale featuring 2Face Idibia.
In a bid to put things straight, Young Chief, a member of the Blackribe, has finally opened up on the matter.
“We don’t have any problem with Faze; the concept of the song is for everybody to dance and be happy. The verse that is currently causing this controversy is where I sang; “why you dey stand alone, abi your name na Faze? We don’t want any maga wey go dull the place!”
Asked why he described Faze in such context, Young Chief claims that, “Faze is reputed for doing his things alone, moreover, his first solo effort was titled Faze Alone, while the second one was titled Independent. So, since the lady in the video had decided to stand out from the crowd, I described her as Faze. With all due to respect to Faze,” he concludes.

Soforte partners Sony Music on distribution
Sony Music UK has entered into an agreement with a Nigerian automated distribution company, SoForte Entertainment Distribution. According to the terms, Sony has been authorised by the outfit, to make available whenever there is a demand for Nigeria music anywhere in the world.
The working relationship between the two outfits for international retail distribution was sealed few days back at the corporate office of Sony Music in the UK. The relationship covers international standard packaging for labels and artistes working with Soforte Distribution. Sony on its part would ensure product supply to its partner retail stores worldwide, as long as demands come from them.
According to Gbenga George, CEO of Soforte, this is the beginning of the dream Soforte has for the industry in line with its blueprint.
“Nigerians living abroad can go into any major or minor media retail store anywhere in the world to request for their favourite Nigerian artistes’ works from the stable of Soforte. The standard of works in Nigeria of today is of international quality, and that should reflect in the quality of our CD/DVD packaging.”
Meanwhile, the company plans to roll out an advance distribution technology system this year, which promises to take the industry to a whole new level. This involves the introduction of an automated CD/DVD vending machine, which is similar to the ATM machine. These machines would be deployed at strategic places around the country to make CD/DVD purchase easier for consumers. The good thing about the initiative is that it guarantees original CD/DVD, as well as royalty payment to artistes and labels.

Kingsley (KC-Presh) is engaged
It all started like a rumour, but it has finally been confirmed that Kingsley of the music group, KC-Presh, has finally engaged his new heartthrob, Cynthia Ijeoma Oduah.
Gist has it that the Sokoribob singer proposed to Ijeoma -- a former VJ with Nigezie -- earlier this month, while both lover were on a trip to Dubai.
“Ijeoma is the only one for me,” Kingsley confirmed when contacted.
It was later discovered that the musician actually planned the trip as a way of creating a special experience for his bride to be. He finally proposed while they were on a balloon ride, gliding across the Dubai skyline.
Ijeoma first said, “Its a lie!” Then few seconds latter, she responded, “yes!”
Both lovers had dinner together and latter lodged at the seven-star Burj Al Arab, Jumeirah. They have already completed their official family introduction, with a brand new car for Ijeoma as an engagement gift.

Lara George, Timi, Efe and Eric for Keep Moving launch
Lara George, Efe, Timi Dakolo and Eric of Idol West Africa, will be performing today at the official launch of Onos Bikawei’s debut album, Keep Moving.
Billed to hold at the Grand Ball Room, Eko Hotel, Victoria Island, Lagos, the event, which will be anchored by the duo of Steve Onu (Yaw of Wazobia FM) and Mc Abbey, will open with a special red carpet reception/cocktail at 4pm, while the event proper starts at 5pm.
“I’m happy that at lat, we are coming up with album. But the most important thing is that the product is worth the efforts. I thank all the people that worked on this album and also my fans that have waited so long for this album to come. Keep Moving is finally here,” she said.
Meanwhile, some of the tracks in the album, such as Dance, are already on air in most radio and TV stations across the country.

Arrested by music

BY GODSWILL ODEKU
HER name may not ring a bell, but Ekwutosi (Ekwy) Daniella Alinta is gradually stepping into the music industry with her recently released single, Ashawo.
The single is already making waves in the eastern part of the country.
Performed with the group, First Base, the track is laced with goods lyrics and melody.
Born 25 years ago, as second child and only girl to the late Esom Alintah, former Secretary General of African Business Roundtable (ABR) and a Camerounian mother, her initial plan was to pursue a career in either Medicine or Law, but she ended up studying Media Productions at the American Intercontinental University, London.
“When I was younger, I wanted to be a doctor. I just wanted to help people from my impressionable age; not myself but other people because there are always less privileged people out there. On the other hand, I wanted to follow my mum’s footstep and become a lawyer, reach out to people and do amazing things,” she says.
All that changed when Ekwy, as she’s fondly called in the industry, finished her studies at the Gordonstoun High School, UK.
“I discovered I just wanted to do something in the entertainment industry; I wanted to reach out to people but in a completely different way,” she enthuses.
She saw herself drifting into more of entertainment. During her high school days in the UK, she even had a stint in ballet and later moved to dance proper, where she participated in dance festivals in the UK.
“I wasn’t necessarily a hero, but it was the only thing I wanted to do. I don’t like seeing people in pains, so, I thought that, though I want to help people, I wouldn’t be able to separate my actual life from my work.”

A LOVER of R&B, jazz, rap and rock music, Ekwy says her songs are not all local genres. “It’s a mixture. I do a fusion of different genres of music because I like a lot of them, so, I can’t really say my songs are purely Nigerian. I love hip-hop; oldies and I have a rock song in my collection. But I particularly like my single because it represents my country and I’m very proud to be here.”
On the challenges of pursuing her passion, the returnee artiste says, “the fact that my father is no longer around to support me is a major challenge. I’m so sure he would have been proud of what I’m doing. However, every moment, the turnout of events prove to me that I can do this, not just proving to people.”

EKWY is in the group of Nigerians, who are excited at the developments in the country’s entertainment industry. She, however, appeals to government to create more enabling environment for players.
“It’s absolutely fantastic now; more young ones are doing something positive with their lives. I think it’s a good development that needs to be encouraged. I believe that if these young ones are supported, they will end up becoming successful, not just to themselves, but also to the nation at large.”
To fellow upcoming acts, she says, “no matter what happens, just keep being you; keep believing in yourself, praying that everything would work out. I don’t believe because something negative happened, then you must change; you need to start seeing the world in a different way.”

WHILE not using her music to pursue any agenda, Ekwy called on the society to rise against inhuman practices against women, especially widows. She recalls what happened after her father’s demise. “Everything we had were taken away from us when my father died. I couldn’t believe that when a person dies, instead of thinking of how to bury him and take care of the people he left behind, the first thing they think of is how to mess up his name and take away what does not belong to them. I really can’t believe such things still happen in this era.”






One-on-one with Collabo Master
BORN Adebayo Durojaiye Samuel, as the last in a family of three, Deebee, as he’s popularly called, launched into the industry with Collabo. The artiste, who is currently working on his new album, speaks to TOYIN KOMOLAFE on his life as a musician.

How did you get into music?
I started when I was young. In fact, music, for me, actually started from the church to the street. In all, God has always been my inspiration.

Breakthrough
I never saw it coming, I just believe this is my time. So, let me shine.

Role model
I like some artistes but I don’t have a role model. I don’t imitate anybody; I sound like myself. However, I like D’banj and 9ice; I like their kind of music.

Challenges so far?
Going to radio stations is really a big challenge to me, but I think we are really doing fine now. Piracy is another major problem musicians face in the country. But… all the same, we are trying to make ends meet.

How do you cope with your female fans?
I am a friendly and cool type, though with crazy songs. I handle my female fans with maturity. There has not been any embarrassing moment from any of them for now.

What are you working on right now?
Be expecting something tighter than Collabo. Get Down is surely going to hit the market soon.

Message to your fans
I love you all. Keep buying my songs; so that money will continue rolling in. To up-coming artistes, like I said, time is turn by turn. Keep working and one-day, your time will surely come.




HOMEFRONT

Onos serves Keep Moving
After months of fine-tuning her songs day and night in the studio, gospel artiste, Onos Bikawei, will today launch her debut album, Keep Moving. Billed to hold at the Grand Ball Room, Eko Hotel & Suite, Victoria Island, Lagos, the event, which kicks off at 3.30pm, will be anchored by the duo of Steve Onu (Yaw of Wazobia FM) and Mc Abbey.
Aside from Onos who will be performing some of her songs live on stage, the evening, which will begin with a special red carpet reception/cocktail, will also feature special appearances by some artistes such as Timi Dakolo and Eric (both of Idol West Africa), Efe, Jay lyricist and others.
“I’m happy that at lat, we are coming up with album. But the most important thing is that the product is worth the efforts. I thank all the people that worked on this album and also my fans that have waited so long for this album to come. Keep Moving is finally here,” she said.
Meanwhile, some of the tracks in the album, such as Dance, are already on air in most radio and TV stations across the country.

D’Banj bags title in Abia State
Few weeks after he was decorated as the Are Makun of Shagamu, Ogun State, Koko Master, D’Banj, added another feather to his cap last weekend when he was conferred with Chief Oluoma 1 of Abayi Amaugwu, an autonomous community in Osisioma Ngwa L.G.A, Abia State.
According to a close source, receiving the title was never part of D’Banj’s plan when he jetted into the state for a Valentines gig.
“We just went for a Valentines’ show in Abia last weekend, there was no plan for a chieftaincy title. He was surprised himself,” the source revealed.
But to show his full acceptance of the title, D’Banj posted on his Twitter page the following Monday:
“Oluoma 1 of Abayi Amaugwu autonomous community in Abia state. New feather added to my cap. Igbo Kwenu!”


Between Kel and Capital Hill Record
Don’t be surprised if you wake up one day and hear that rapper Kel, dumped Capital Hill Records, a platform with which she launched into the industry. According to rumours making the rounds, the relationship between Kel and the record label seems to have hit brick walls.
Reports coming from both camps have it that the rapper whose debut album, The Investment, was released just last year, is about putting an end to her relationship with the label; a deal that is supposed to elapse by March 2011. Kel wants to leave immediately, but the label insists that the fast rising rapper must settle her debt before leaving.
“We produced her album, shot her videos and have promoted her ever since. She owes the label about N10 million and we have communicated this to her. We have also withdrawn her videos from TV as we cannot continue to promote her when she doesn’t want to be with us anymore,” the label claimed.

Stand Up Nigeria Valentine’s special
Afrotainment Productions organiser of the monthly comedy show, Stand Up Nigeria, has revealed plans to stage the Valentine’s Day edition of the show this month.
Scheduled for February 27, at the MUSON Centre, Onikan, Lagos, the show will be hosted by comedian Lapacious Bose, making her the second female comedian to anchor the show (after Princess) noted for parading frontline comedians.
As a way of shearing love, guests stand the chance of buying one ticket and getting another free when purchasing before the event.
“Since this is the month of love, we’ve decided to give lovers the opportunity to have a fun filled show by giving out extra ticket. The project was initiated a year ago with the aim of showcasing Nigerian comedy talents as well as celebrate Nigerians, who have made significant impact in their chosen fields,” the producer of the show, Bunmi Davies said.
The list Nigerians celebrated on the Stand Up Nigeria comedy stage include Stella Damasus, Lagbaja, Julius Agwu, Jimmy Jatt, Joke Silva, Amaka Igwe, Femi Sowoolu,

From Boston, Show Stopper arrives

STORIES BY CHUKS NWANNE
He launched into the country’s entertainment industry in 2006 when he released his debut album, I Don Taya; the work successfully registered his name on the long list of Nigerian returnee artistes, who have come to indentify with the industry at home.
Three years after, Duncan O. Onyemuwa Jnr, is back with a follow up to his first effort. Entitled Show Stopper, Duncan Daniel, as he’s fondly called in the industry, is optimistic that the 18-track album would easily find its way into music charts in the country.
A fusion of different music genres like Pop, Rock and R&B, the album, which will be officially released today, has tracks such as Show Stopper (the title), Stolen Identity, Like This, Medicine Man, I’ve Found You, My Head O, Come and Go, I Wanna Know, Falling and Decide. Others include Complicated, Take it Off, I don’t Care, Telling Me Lies, Live Again, To the Top and It’s Over.
To ensure the new work has bits of Nigerian flavour, Duncan, a graduate of the Berkeley College of Music, Boston, USA, who started writing music and playing piano from the age of 11, collaborated with some notable home-based artistes such as rap stars MI and Mode 9, Mark Gee, Johnson & Griot, Felyne and others. However, all songs were written and mixed by the multi-instrumentalist himself.
HINTING on the new work, which is expected to hit music shelves around the country from tomorrow, Duncan says, “I decided to release the work on Valentine’s Day as my little way of showing love to my compatriots. The album is so much fun; it will surely make you sing, cry and dance with attitude. As the name goes, the album is truly a ‘Show Stopper.”
On his choice of Nigerian artistes featured in some of the tracks, Duncan informs, “aside the fact that some of them are people I’ve known for some time now, I also wanted to show love and respect to my roots by including some prominent Nigerian artistes in the work; I could have worked with foreign acts, but promoting my culture is very important to me.”

SONGWRITER and music producer, Duncan has performed in Boston, Lagos, London, Atlanta and others, where he thrilled with his blend of pop, rock and R&B. He had in the past, worked with notable record labels and production outfits such as Tuck Tyght Records, Rolladice Records, Grafton Records and others.
“What makes you an artiste is the ability to not only sing, but at least handle one or two musical instrument. For me, playing music is not accidental; I had to study it formally in school,” says the acoustics guitar specialist.




HOME FRONT

Keffe fetes less privileged, artistes on her Day
Aqua 27, Victoria Island, Lagos, was recently awash with top Nigerian artistes, family members, friends and fans of Keffe Obareki, as the Branama Queen marked her Birthday on February 5, 2010.
The party, which saw the Delta State native perform her latest single, Sapele Water live on stage, attracted notable artistes such as Tuface Idibia, Sammy Okposo, Yaw, Koffi, Alariwo, Princess, Tony Tetuila, Onos, Azeezat, DJ Humility, MC Abbey, Ramsey Noah, Davina…the list was soo long.
According to the celebrant, the birthday bash, which lasted into the early hours of the following day, was organized as a means of saying “thank you to all my friends and fans that have been a pillar of support during my trying times. I wanted to appreciate all my friends in the media for your support, may God reward all of you,” she said.
Meanwhile, as a way of giving back to the society, Keffe had earlier visited Living Fountain Orphanage, Lagos, where she entertained the kids with her songs, as well as donate materials for the upkeeps of the less privilege children in the home.
“This is a time to show love; there’s no better time than on my Birthday.”

Nigezie in Colour Of Love gig
As part of activities to mark this year’s St Valentine’s Day, music TV channel, Nigezie is partnering MTN Nigeria for a special party tagged Colour Of Love. Billed to hold today, starting from 6pm, the show will hold at Let’s Go Bowling, The Palms Shopping Complex, Lekki, Lagos.
To make the event worth the while, organisers have contracted some notable Nigerian artistes, who are expected to thrill the gathering. The list includes 4kasibe crooner DJ Zeez, Durella, Dagrin, M.I, G-Exploits, Inyanya, Ruggedman, YQ, Mike, GT Tha Guitarman and MTN Project Fame All-Stars.
Meanwhile, some lucky guests stand the chance of winning BlackBerry phones and other gift items, courtesy of MTN. To be part of the gig, guests were expected to email their names and phone numbers to love@nigezie.tv, for official invitation cards.

H-MAN returns with Love Nwantinti
He appeared earlier in the industry with the track Ndoli Ndoli, but went low months later. After weeks of working on his beats in the studio, pop sensation H-Man, is back with a new single, Love Nwantinti.
Already, the video of the new track shot and directed by Clarence Peters, is enjoying airplay in some TV station across the country.
According to the singer, “I was off the scene in order to repackage; change my sound and looks, and come out with a fresh and more soothing sound and image that suits my craft,” he said.
Though he has relocated from his Lagos base to Abuja, H-Man is not worried about making in-road with his new work. With the backing of his new management company, Blarque Brotha Entertainment, H-Man is confident of taking his music to a greater height this time.


Valentine Diamond Ball2
Nollywood stars, Omotola Jalade-Ekeinde and Zack Orji, alongside their spouses, will be special guests at a Valentine’s Day show for couples tagged Diamond Ball 2. The event, which is organised by Black Butterfly Events Company, will hold at theWelcome Center & Hotels, Int’l Airport Road, Lagos.
According to Glory Adeyemi, a member of the organizing committee, “the event is a social networking platform for couples. And also an initiative for providing support, creating awareness and mobilising action for health and social causes relating to women in particular and children.”
Aside the usual music, dance and comedy, this year’s edition will also feature a special celebrity couple appearances with a raffle draw that would see some guests smile home with prizes such as return tickets from Dana Air, relaxer kits from Venus, hair extensions from X-pression, a weekend stay over at Travel House, beauty products from House of Tara, love chairs from Modern Home Makers and lots more.
Tola Olamiju, a consultant for the event, informed that proceeds generated from the events would be used to help raise fund

Jedi... in G-Pikin Project

STORIES BY CHUKS NWANNE
THOUGH he had been in the entertainment industry right from his days at the Lagos State University (LASU), his big break came on the day he got just five minutes out of comedian Gbenga Adeyinka’s slot, to entertain viewers during a programme. Five minutes seems so small to make an impact, but for Jedi Ayo, that short period was a big turn-around in his life as an entertainer.
Today, Jedi fondly known as ‘the well-fed comedian of the Federal Republic,’ has risen through the ranks to be one of the frontline comedians in the country, with his personal shows to speak for it. Aside his comedy, Jedi’s fashion sense seems to be working for him; his dressing has earned him several jobs from corporate organisation.
Having made his mark in comedy, the Microbiology graduate has branched into another field –– music. His 12-track debut album, G-Pikin Project (God’s Pikin), which he described as a testimony of God’s grace in his life, is expected to hit music shelves around the country this month, with an official release party underway.
“I just thought I should do something that represents me as a child of God; I’m not ashamed to say that I’m a child of God because I have a personal relationship with him. For four years now, I’ve been working on this album; it’s like a Degree programme. And it’s with great joy that I bring it out to the public,” he says at a media parley held recently in Lagos.
The work features songs such as Proudly Nigerian, Dance and Jehovah, which has been on air across the country for quite some time now.
“Jehovah was the first track I did on the album in 2006, but we ended up not putting it in the album. After we did the remix of the song, which is actually the one playing on air right now, my producer (Flo) decided we remove the old Jehovah due to the popularity of the remix.”

Call it a gospel album; Jedi is not bothered at all. For the comedian, singing of God’s glory gives him satisfaction.
“If you say I’m a gospel artistes, it’s ok. But there’s also a love song called Kolo; I believe that as a child of God, I can express myself in love because I will definitely get married someday.”
Jedi also dedicated one of the tracts to Nigeria, urging other artistes to always see something good about the country, especially in their music.
“People are always bringing out songs that don’t say good things about Nigeria. We always complain about this and that, but we forget that some things are changing for the better in the country. Who would have thought of a blackberry phone coming to Nigeria today? In fact, there was a time we had to queue to make call at NITEL, but today, almost everybody owns a mobile phone; that’s a good news about Nigeria. Yes, we have a Farouk, who wanted to blow American plane, but does that make all of us bad? No!”
Are you condemning artistes that take on topical issues affecting the country?
“In the midst of the issues, we should also look at the positive side of this country; that’s what I did. I’m not saying that people shouldn’t complain about issues in Nigeria, but there are things that are working here, too. Of course, music is a platform with which information can be passed across to the whole world. Countries such as America have issues, but hardly can you hear such issues in their music.”
Asked if he’s leaving comedy for music, the comedian says, “I’m happy that today in Nigeria if you mention 20 comedians, my name must come up. So, I am not leaving comedy for music because I’m not successful; I’m rather exploring other talents. Music is something that I’ve always wanted to do and this is the right time for it. I will always do my comedy.”




HOME FRONT

Valentine show @ the Coliseum
The Niteshift Coliseum, a leading celebrity hangout in Lagos will host a Special Valentine Night on Sunday, February 14, at The Coliseum Arena, located at Opebi, Ikeja, Lagos. A statement from the outfit says, this year’s Valentine’s Day has been designed to be special for the club’s patrons and other couples.
“Guests will experience special touch synonymous with the club. There will be special R&B, Disco segment and other side attractions,” the club’s Guv’nor, Mr. Ken-Caleb Olumese boasts.
Though the list has not been made public, there are indications that some top Nigerian artistes will feature at the event. The show will also feature a raffle draw, with lots of prizes for grabs.
The show, which will kick off from 8pm till dawn is strictly by invitation.

Mo’ Hits targets 4 albums this year
Though it was recently reported that cracks were begining to emerge in the fold of the Mo’ Hits artistes, the producer of the label, Don Jazzy, has informed that the outfit would be releasing at least four albums this year. Jazzy, who according to media reports, has mended fence with his artistes, Wande Coal after a disagreement over royalties, informed that the albums will come from actor Justus Esiri’s son, Dr. Sid; one time Storm 360 artiste, Ikechukwu; D’prince and Koko Master, D’banj. According to an insider, Dr. SID’s Turning Point will be the first to hit music shelves. It would be recalled that he recently abandoned his trademark rapping, to experiment on just singing, which he intends to make public in his yet-to-be-released work. Already, one of the singles from the album is on air. Rap artiste, Ikechukwu, who just buried his dad, will follow with The Alliance. There have been speculations that owing to the death of the rapper’s dad, the album might be put on hold. But it has been confirmed that the work will be released as planned.
Surprisingly, D’banj’s younger brother, K-Switch, seems to be the artiste with less visibility in the Mo Hits family; he has no single album to his credit since joining the team. We are waiting!

Jim Iyke in fresh palava
Publicist of the actor turned rapper, Jim Iyke, recently disclosed that an Abuja-based lady was trying to blackmail him by speaking to the press on how he allegedly beat her up and tried to strangle her. The statement, which was made available to the press, claimed that the ‘desperate’ lady, who goes by the nickname, Tutu, has threatened to scandalise Jim’s name in the media and on the Internet, for walking out on her and refusing the pregnancy “ she was trying to force on him... She is said to have fabricated lies and documents that our client tried to strangle her; we are denying the accusation and are ready to defend Jim with all we’ve got. Yes, Jim had a thing to do with her, but he never physically attacked her. Her ploy is to make Jim run back to her.” The lady in question, Hauwa Tutupie Sherrif has come out to say that she knew Jim would claim she was trying to blackmail him, but she has many evidence including a medical reports to support her claims. Meanwhile, indications have emerged that Tutu had dated four music stars and they’ve all dumped her.
“She is obsessed with stars and wants to use them to achieve her selfish aim. Our client refused to be so used,” Jim’s publicist insists.


Stingomania MVP Camp produces 19 videos in 10 days
Stingomania Records has made history. Between January 17 and 27, after a 10-day Musical Video Production Camp (MVP Camp) with their artistes. The outfit succeeded in coming out with 19 new music videos within such short period.
t The shooting, which took place at an exclusive location in Lekki, produced videos for Trybson’s songs such as Dudukoko, Alepo, Stingo Girl, Koto and Reasons for Trybson. Video of Kolo and Kainje, by Big Brother Nigeria’s Aydu Amah, were part of the newly shot works. Love Wan Tin Tin by EMX, 2ICE as Nice by Baba Nee, Pay the Money, Overnight, In my life and Ko Ye Mi O by Ovis Tee are also inclusive. Eazy Lizy’s Show your Logo, with levelz’s Shimpaka and Obesere’s Wind E, also saw the light of the day through the initiative.
Speaking on the project, the CEO of the record label, Ope Banwo said, “solving the problem of high cost video production was a life or death problem for the record. We had to choose between spending over N20m on videos for our artistes or watch the label go quietly into oblivion; both options we definitely could not afford. So, we had to come up with the concept of the MVP camp.”


Valentine groove with Storm, Samsung
STORM 360, a leading entertainment company in partnership with Samsung Mobile, will host a special valentine concert on Feb 13 at the Landmark Village Lekki, Lagos.
Billed to perform at the event is the award winning Naeto C. The suave ‘tastemaker’, as he is fondly called, will be previewing selected tracks from his new album Super C Season and songs from his debut album. The list of performers also includes 2009 Channel O Best Female Artiste in Africa, Sasha, Sauce Kid, GT Da Guitarman, General Pype and YQ. Olomi crooner, Tosin Martins, Banky W and Timi Dakolo and J Martins are also lined up for the event.
According to Peter Lee, Director, Samsung Mobile Nigeria: “We are proud to have partnered with Storm for this event. They not only have a good stable of artists but also good event handling. And of course, we know them to be one of the top Tv production companies in this part of Africa. Samsung is building strong partnerships with Nigeria companies to invest in long-term relationships.
“We know that Nigerians would much prefer home grown talent. What better way than to use good homegrown brands like Storm, especially with world-class talent such as Naeto C, Sasha, Banky W and so many others.

With Asa, the big band rules the stage

Recently, news went round that the singer, and easily Nigeria’s currently most globally accepted young artiste, Asa, had been arrested abroad. The gist was everywhere, even on some gossip websites run by unknown reporters, that the Bibanke crooner had been nabbed by the London police in Heathrow Airport for allegedly being in possession of substance suspected to be marijuana. But in a swift reaction, Asa cleared the air from her Lagos home in a telephone conversation with a reporter with one of the growing online magazines. In case you are still nursing some kind of doubts, Asa was live on stage in Lagos just a few days after the rumour. As usual, she was at her best… as reported by ANOTE AJELUOROU


When Chams.net last Friday put Asa, Nigeria’s music export to the world, on stage at Cora Reef in Ikoyi, Lagos, as part of stepping up its campaign for Naira.com, an online business outfit, it thrilled the guests to an exciting time on a rare live musical performance.
Although miming to hooks and recorded beats has become standard practice of hiphop music live prersentation globally, the Nigerian variant is usually suspect. First, sound engineers are yet to master how to fine-tune the complex of musical instruments to give the desired sound output. So, what comes across is usually flat, distorted sound that generally undermines the prowess of an artist and the quality of his music.
Even at the Chams.net show, such poor technical depth in sound engineering showed glaringly in the performance versions the audience was treated to. Dipo and Bez had opened the show with what appeared good showmanship and skills. But sound treatment or engineering, which should have heightened the musicality of their efforts fell short.
It was however rescued for Asa by her French crew that took over the stage management. No doubt, the audience was somewhat peeved that over a whooping hour was spent trying to piece together instruments that had just been used by fellow artistes. Indeed, Asa perhaps, ought to have advised her French crew to set up the instruments before the show started proper rather than having to break the proceeding, and subject the audience to such tedious wait. She would also have greatly enriched the performance of Dipo and Bez, who were to herald her.
Musical instruments (the sort used in modern shows) are foreign contraptions; it would take those who made them that extra input to set right.
By the time the French were through with their weird sound-testing mechanics -- the wide difference in mastery of technicality of sound production between local and imported professionals, was glaring.

Before Asa took the stage, two promising talents had thrilled the audience. Specialising in the R&B and soul genres of music, Dipo and Bez brought a certain spice of their own that was altogether compelling. When first act Dipo stepped up to the microphone spotting a black jacket, he came across as some sort of uninspiring preacher or comedian who would grope around for his jokes.
But when he started with ‘Waka waka’, then followed by ‘Love divine’, and having to explain the reasons behind his lyrics, it was clear Asa already has a musical clone. Dipo’s lyrical delivery was superb but it was also an extension of the Asa mould of soul music, which he was trying to give his own interpretation. This is not to deny him a measure of originality or good measure of talent.
‘Malo’, which is a fusion of local dialect with English is quintessentially Dipo’s. If he were to make it his signature song, Dipo would just have announced himself as a soul singer worth listening to. Of credit to him also just like Asa is the big band essemble, which he jointly shares with Bez, who was to later introduce the band members to the audience. So, Dipo also rocked on the Green Carpet at the Cora Reef.
Bez, too, showed his stuff, which was not unlike America’s soul singer John Legend. While Legend is a dexterous pianist, Bez seems an immensely gifted guitarist. And, he’s got lots of stage theatrics too, which are enhanced by his hat and rimmed glasses, which he intermittently adjusts as he strums away at his guitar. ‘More you’, ‘Jazz for Mary’, ‘Stop pretending’ and ‘Crazy’ are a few of his lyrics he soulfully vocal delivery for the audience’s enjoyment that night.

When Asa started her performance well into the night, the irritation of having to wait for over an hour for mere instruments to be reset for thinned out. The sound quality was so great there was no difference between it and having to listen to Asa’s CD on a home theatre music system.
Asa’s stagecraft showed the depth of an artiste’s commitment to her art and reverence to her its audience -- not just in her singing but also the quality of instrumentation. And, art is art only when meticulousness and thoroughness meet. In Asa, these virtues were not wanting as she rocked in the Green Carpet at the open garden. The small stage, however, restricted the artistes’ movement. Diasppointingly, though the ‘big men and women’ that was the audience did not feel moved enough by Asa’s superb delivery to stand to their feet and dance!
It was clear from her show, that Asa had also missed the Lagos audience for whom she duly apologised and promised frequent appearances in future. She also alluded to a drug-related rumour about her; assuring that it was all false. In fact, her presence at the show, was a confirmation of the fallacy of the report possibly designed to tarnish her image.
Asa did all the usual stuffs and more. She performed ‘Iya, a song she said she first tried on her guitar when she first got one to work with. It talks about pain and suffering stressing that the two are part of human experiences. Already a soulful singer, the vocal timbre she gave to the song emotionally taxed her audience.
In spite of her huge talent and success as a solo artiste, Asa is also a believer in other talents or acts. She was to invite two female soul singers -- Omolara and Ibiyemi -- to share stage with her on the ‘Iya’ song; their drawn out adlibbing roused interest of the audience powerfully. In the duo resides a prodigious vocal power, which would yet find anchor as they mature in their performances.
Jeremiah Gyang, in spite of the sectarian crisis in his Jos home state, still found inner strength to perform along Asa, perhaps as a form of defiance to those who seek to destroy the human spirit consumed as they are in beastly rage!