Tony Tetuila Brings Back The Remedies

Several years have dragged by since we last heard of the defunct pop group, ‘The Remedies’. The group that held the Nigerian music scene by storm with hits like ‘Shako mo’, ‘Shade’ and ‘Jealousy’.

The group signed to Kennis Music back then which consisted of Tony Tetuila as the singer/dancer, Eedris Abdulkareem the rapper and Eddy Montana as the vocalist were at the top of their game when issues arising from ownership and royalties came up. Tony Tetuila was forced to leave and soon enough started a solo career.

He later released his debut work ‘Morning Time’ which spurned hit songs like ‘Omode meta’, ‘Morning time’ and ‘Omo pupa’.

Tony Tetuila during an exclusive interview with Nigerian Entertainment Today (NET) Tuesday, August 9, 2011 discussed bringing back the group on his new album and also gave his view about the revolution in music today.

SUNNYKISS: Tony lets meet you.

Tony Tetuila: My name is Tony Tetuila, the Golden boy of Africa…. My real names are Olanrewaju Anthony Awotoye and I’m from Kwara State. I’m an artiste, musician. What do I even sing? (smiles) Hip Hop with some African feel in it.

SUNNYKISS: Tony, you go way back as one of the pioneers of Hip Hop music in Nigeria. You are one of the major artistes who started the ‘Naija Hip Hop movement’. But today we have some good music and of course a few noise makers. Speaking of hits like; ‘Omode Meta N Sere’ and ‘You don Hit My Car’, how would you describe the development in the music industry today?

Tony Tetuila: It’s better now. It used to be good back then though. A lot of people are coming into the game. A lot of people are standing up, a lot of people are really supporting music generally, let’s talk about corporate bodies coming up to sign artistes for endorsement, which was not rampant then, but it’s a good thing. The face of entertainment has really changed, you know, the new school is really making things happen. This time around though, it’s not all about making sense anymore.

SUNNYKISS: Are you saying it’s all about the money now?

Tony Tetuila: Yes, that’s what I’m trying to say.

SUNNYKISS: Tony, I remember you and a whole of artistes back in the day, music used to be a thing of passion. It was about making more sense and not just about the money. So tell me, with every amount of bluntness, what is your view about some of the songs we have out in the market today?

Tony Tetuila: Well, I won’t say its rubbish and I won’t say the songs are not making sense.

SUNNYKISS: But you don’t like them?

Tony Tetuila: If you talk about the beats and what they are singing over it, I will say the beats, on point, but what they sing? I think it’s all about the swagger and how you deliver it now and since that’s what the people want, I’ll say they are doing well. (Laughs) But lyrically, I’m not really feeling some people, not all of them though. Some make sense for the love of music; others are in the game for the paper.

SUNNYKISS: So in a nutshell Tetuila, what you are saying is that, it’s not totally about good music anymore, it’s all about the money?

Tony Tetuila: Yeah, it’s the paper that counts, not the music.

SUNNYKISS: So talking about good music which you believe you can give us. What are you cooking right now?

Tony Tetuila: We just dropped the album now titled, ‘Made in Heaven’, featuring 2Face, 9ice, Ajasa, Durella, Ruggedman, Pasuma, members of my former group Remedies (Eedris Abdulkareem and Eddy) and some up-coming artistes on Tetuila Records. We thank God, the album is out now, but we are just trying to put it into the market first, before we do an album launch and the album listening party.

SUNNYKISS: And when will that be?

Tony Tetuila: Soon.

SUNNYKISS: Thank you Tony.

Tony Tetuila: Thank you for having me.

Chante Moore To Perform Live In Lagos, August 20

One of America’s respected vocalists, Chanté Moore is expected to perform at a charity concert in Lagos, Nigeria come Saturday, August 20, 2011, organizers have announced.

The charity concert which is organized in support of the True Health Foundation for the treatment of acute renal failure will take place at the Harbour Point, Victoria Island, Lagos.

Others announced to perform at the event are some of Nigeria’s chart topping acts which include pop sensation Wizkid and label boss Banky W.

Born to a gospel minister, Moore grew up singing in the church and has recorded and released seven albums since her 1992 debut.

‘Terry G Stole My Song’ – Danny Young Insists

The news going around town now is that self-proclaimed ‘Akpako Master’ and pop star Terry G has allegedly ‘stolen’ his colleague and client Danny Young‘s song and released it as his. Danny Young has come out to accuse the award wining singer/producer claiming Terry G stole his song and reproduced it as his.

Today, Danny Young who still sounded distraught and disappointed, told Nigerian Entertainment Today (NET) in a phone conversation that the story is true. ‘Yes it’s true and I’m getting tired of the whole thing, please speak with my management, they’ll give you all the details’.

And Danny Young’s manager who goes by the name Kay La La, narrated the whole story to NET in a phone conversation.

‘Danny Young had attended an event held at Elegushi beach, Lagos. He met up with reggae singer Rock Steady who was at the time recording his songs and told Young that he would like for him to be on his album. Days later, Rock Steady and Danny Young hooked up and Terry G’s studio where the former was recording. Terry G asked Danny Young to feature on a new song which also featured Rock Steady, they recorded and called it a day.

Weeks later Young visited Terry G and asked him to feature on a song his was recording titled ‘Eli Jah‘ for his upcoming album ‘Rebirth. They played the song in Young’s car and Terry G loved it. He readily wanted to feature on it but suggested he changed a few instrumentation. Being skeptical of the idea, Danny Young decided not to give him the song data. After repeated attempts to get Terry G on the track, Danny Young’s crew got tired of Terry G’s evasions and traveled to Jamaica then Dubai for shows only to see Terry G’s version of the song titled ‘Jah Hailo’ posted on the blogs on arriving Nigeria’.

Danny Young immediately recorded and released his own version and in the second verse is heard accusing Terry G of stealing his song.

Repeated attempts to talk to Terry G and his management proved abortive as phone calls placed through were not responded to. They were also yet to respond to SMS enquiries as at press time.

This wouldn’t be the first time Terry G is getting into messy waters with an artiste over rights infringement. He has, in recent past, been accused of unauthorised copying/sampling. And that’s just one aspect of the many controversies marring his otherwise brilliant career. Off-and-on altercations with the likes of Mallam Spicy, AY.Com, Side One and Kelly Hansome have also fuelled his image as a bad boy – something his management are now keen on washing off….

Moshito Gears Up For 2011 Music Festival

Moshito, one of South Africa’s music industry markets is set to host a music conference and exhibition from Wednesday, August 31, 2011.

According to event organizers, the festival will be broken down into series of events which will last for three days; featuring a conference, live music showcases, a mini-film festival themed around music and an exhibition of services and products in the music industry.

Another topic that will be looked into is the current digital music trends – both nationally and internationally – and a diverse range of skilled speakers drawn from the global music industry.

Now in its eighth year, Moshito is an annual music conference and exhibition that takes place in South Africa. The event is a partnership between, primarily, the Department of Arts and Culture, and Moshito Music Conference and Exhibition.

Capital Femi Sings ‘In The Name Of Love’

As we all wait for Kennis Music‘s R&B prodigy Femi to release his debut work ‘Capital F.E.M.I, The Year of R’n’B‘ (which has been a very tiresome experience), he once again releases a single (hopefully the final) titled ‘In the name of love‘.

Produced by urban beat maker Tee-Y Mix, Femi takes advantage of the bassy beat to deliver yet another beautiful number. The trumpet filled beat picks up from where the synths stops. Femi knows his onions and isn’t afraid to show it.

Brilliant vocals as usual from Femi. But can we please have the album now?

Exclusive: D’banj, Ikechukwu Reconcile

It started as rumours and unsure speculation; but we can now confirm that D’banj and Ikechukwu have put the past behind them, settled their differences, and rekindled their once robust business and personal relationship.

We’re all familiar with the story of their quarrel, leading to media exchanges and eventual separation – with Ikechukwu going on his own to revive his World Famous Akademy (WFA) posse while Mo’Hits shut its doors on him and turned the lock.

But yesterday, several months after D’banj and Ikechukwu’s very public feud, fans were shocked to see both acts hit the stage together for an elaborate performance at the Sprite Triple Slam finale in Eko Hotel, Lagos on Sunday, August 7, 2011. It was a surprise performance, for Ikechukwu was not on the bill. Headliner D’banj was performing with Kay Switch, Bankuli and Wande Coal. The Mo’Hits stars kicked off their performance at 8pm taking fans way back into the early D’banj days on ‘Tongolo‘. At 8:15, Ikechukwu emerged from backstage, as the live band switched the sound and launched his song. He joined D’banj to perform ‘Critical‘, ‘Wind am well’ and some of his other Don Jazzy-produced hits, before tthe band switched again and focused on D’banj’s songs.

Ikechukwu remained on stage all through D’banj’s set and both acts hugged, shared jokes and displayed a new found friendship that makes it difficult to believe they were sworn ‘enemies’ just few months back.

A Mohits insider tells us ‘they’ve been talking’; adding that yesterday’s show is not the first time they’re performing together since their ‘exaggerated altercation’.

‘They were together in Abuja recently and they hit the stage together’, he says.

No word yet on whether ikechukwu will return to Mo’Hits.

Good Night Uncle Sam: A Tribute To Sam Loco Efe

I remember the day, in 1998, when I ran away from home to a village in Badagry, I had no idea what lay in store for me. All I wanted was not to be married. Later that evening, I saw a film cast and crew. Kate Henshaw-Nuttal, Basorge Tariah Jnr., Julius Awgu, Jude Orhorha and Francis Duru. It was a relief to see people I knew and that was when I heard Uncle Sam Loco Efe and Late aunty Christy Essien-Igbokwe were on the same set. They both played Kate’s parents in the movie.

I remember him asking what brought me out there, and I narrated my tale. He listened with the ears of a wise man, while he drank a beer and said to me, ‘my daughter, there are charlatans parading themselves as husbands, look well’. That was said as though he had known me all the while. He was truly a father. It was not just an honor to have gotten advice from a man who had proven to the world his versatility, both on stage and on screen, it was a blessing.

I ended up playing a role in the movie, and had the opportunity to work in the same project. It was too much for me at the time. I looked on in awe as he ‘chewed’ his lines, and proffered solutions when it looked as if tradition would find us wanting. He was the voice of reason when the villagers thought they would prove difficult, once they saw him and how his humility shone through, they would open their doors, bring stools, even offer us food.

As an actor, his ability to become the character came easy. He always had a new thing he brought with him. Watching him, you would be ready for a roller coaster ride. His journey from ‘Hotel de Jordan’ which was aired live in the then Bendel state, to Festac 77, he slowly broke generational ties and Nollywood was home.

How can I say all this and not mention his comedic side? His sense of humor made you forget pain, sorrow and anything that had the ability to bring tears of grief. The only tears allowed were tears of joy. He was the definition of natural humor.

A true African who believed in family values. If I could turn the hands of time, I would ask for just another piece of advice. And it’s sad that he’ll depart just when he was about to play my father in a new movie ‘Phone Swap’.

Good night Uncle Sam, and sleep well in the Lord.

Uche Jombo’s Movie ‘Damage’ Premieres In Grandstyle

It was a night of glamour on Sunday, July 31, 2011 as Nollywood stars and celebs turned out for the much-talked-about premiere of ‘Damage’, the movie produced by star actress Uche Jombo.

Held at The Silverbird Galleria, Victoria Island, Lagos, a huge number of celebs graced the red carpet before the movie commenced. They include: Omotola Jalade-Ekeinde, Kate Henshaw-Nuttal, Funke Akindele, Stella Damasus, Iyabo Ojo, Chidi Mokeme, Yole Edochie, Nse Ikpe-Item, Basorge Tariah Jnr, Osita Iheme, Tonto Dike, Paul of the Psquare duo, Omoni Oboli and a host of others.

‘Damage’ a thriller which stars Kalu Ikeagwu and Uche Jombo tells the story of a married couple who love each other but fight violently almost on a daily basis, which on the long run affects their marriage and children.

The movie will start showing in cinemas across the nation from August, 2011.

Ice Prince Releases ‘Super Star’ Video

Without a doubt, fans of fast rising rapper and 9 time nominee at The Headies Ice Prince will be pleased to see that Chocolate City has finally released the follow up video to his second single ‘Super star‘.

Directed by Big Brother Nigeria winner Katung, the video doesn’t describe the song at best but the clean cutaways and costumes will keep you glued to the screen whilw the four-minute clip lasts.

There’s nothing out of the ordinary as the video doesn’t capture any memorable moments and the pose of the lovely looking vixen isn’t explored fully enough. Also the energy of the song has been dampened but Ice Prince’s charm is the only reason you’ll have to play back after a try.

US Rapper Ludacris’ Trip To Nigeria Cancelled

Fans might have to wait a little while longer to see US rapper Ludacris as the Grammy Award winning artiste’s trip to Nigeria has been cancelled.

It was reported that the ATL rapper who co-runs his label Disturbing Tha Peace Records (DTP) with co-founder Chaka Zulu were to fly into Lagos to launch a TV reality show called ‘The African Superstar’. A poster circulating around had suggested that Luda had teamed up with media outfits Konnect Afrika and Xtrem Media to host a ‘Disturbing Tha Peace Wit’ Luda’ gig on Sunday, July 31, 2011. A press conference was to hold the next day.

But on the D-day, a press statement was released and circulated via E-mail. It stated that the rapper had unveiled ‘African Superstar’ from Dar Es Salaam in Tanzania. It reads:

‘We sincereley apologize for the inconvenience, but word reaching us from Tanzania just confirmed that Ludacris’ trip to Lagos has been postponed, due to complications with the flight/air traffic flight plan from Dar Es Salaam. The ‘Disturbing Tha Peace Wit’ Luda’-tagged party in Lagos will no longer take place as scheduled. A formal press release follows shortly’.

Repeated efforts to reach the phone number that accompanied the mail prove abortive as it kept hanging up.

Ice Prince, 2Face, Darey, Dr. SID Lead The Headies Nominees List

The nominees for the annual urban music awards The Headies awards (formerly known as HipHopWorld Awards) have been announced and Chocolate City rapper Ice Prince tops the list with an amazing nine nominations. The Chocolate City act is closely followed by pop star 2face Idibia who is up for seven nominations.

Ice Prince was nominated for ‘Song of the year’, ‘Producer of the year‘, ‘Best Rap Single‘ for ‘Oleku‘ and ‘She and my Swagga‘, ‘Lyricist on the roll‘, ‘Best Collabo‘ for ‘Oleku‘ and ‘Joor Oh Remix‘, ‘Next Rated‘ and ‘Best street hop‘ for ‘Joor Oh Remix‘. He shares three of his nominations with rapper Ruggedman and pop singer Jah Bless.

Other artistes with multiple nominations include rapper turned singer Dr. SID and R&B singer Darey with six nods each; rapper M.I (5); D’banj and new kids on the block Wizkid and oLamide score four (4) nominations each.

Also this year, a ’Best Conscious Music category‘ has been added while the ‘Best Reggae Artiste’ category has been pulled off.

The nominations were announced via the official website www.theheadies.com, and on the Beat 99.9 FM today, Tuesday, August 2, 2011.

Check the full list below…

ALBUM OF THE YEAR

Best album (solo or group) in year under review, that meets judges’ requirements of excellence (in realms as: songwriting, production, rendition and promotion) and acceptability (sales, popularity)

MI2 – M.I

Back From The Future – Sound Sultan

Turning Point – Dr Sid

Beautiful Imperfection – Asa

Unstoppable Int’l Edition – 2Face

ARTISTE OF THE YEAR

Most critically and commercially adjudged artiste in the year under review. Overall most successful artiste for the year under review.

Darey

M.I

D’banj

2face

Duncan Mighty

SONG OF THE YEAR

Most popular song from an album in the year under review. Decided by voting

Oleku – Ice Prince Ft. BrymO

Only Me – 2Face

Give It To Me – D’Prince ft. D’banj

Pop Something – Dr Sid ft. D’banj

Fimile – Kas

RECORDING OF THE YEAR

Best single recording (On-air only or released) by artiste or group in year under review. Originality and production very essential

The Way You Are – Darey

God Hand – Eva

Rain Drops – 2face

Be My Man – Asa

PRODUCER OF THE YEAR

The individual responsible for producing the most acclaimed songs/album in the year under review. His CV for the year includes top-notch tracks and production credits no one can fault.

Don Jazzy – ‘Over the Moon’ by Dr Sid, Mr Endowed, Pop Something

Samklef – Don’t Dull, Kilode, Jonzing World, Noni

J Sleek – Only Me, 2010

Jesse Jagz – Oleku, Jargo

Cobhams – The Way you Are, There Is A Cry

BEST MUSIC VIDEO (AWARD GOES TO DIRECTOR)

Best conceptualised, best edited, best picture, best directed and most exciting video in year under review as voted by fans and decided by the jury.

Patrick Elis – Holla At Your Boy

Clarence Peters – You Know It (Goldie)

Gini – Ko Ma Roll (Mo’Cheddah)

Mex – Pop Off Selecta (Dipp)

DJ Tee – Eni Duro (Olamide)

BEST R ‘N’ B SINGLE

Best R&B single in year under review (by single individual or group)

Only Me – 2Face

The Way You Are – Darey

I Gat Money – Femi Ft. Eedris

For A Minute – Waje

Oyi – Flavour

BEST POP SINGLE

Best pop single in year under review (by single individual or group)

Give It To Me – D’Prince

Pop Something – Dr. Sid

Holler At Ur Boy – Wizkid

Endowed – D’banj

Fimile – Kas

BEST R ‘N’ B/ POP ALBUM

Best R&B or pop album in year under review (by single individual or group)

Turning Point – Dr Sid

Beautiful Perfection – Asa

Back To The Future – Sound Sultan

Double Dare – Darey

Unstoppable Int’l Edition – 2Face

BEST RAP SINGLE

Best single released on-air recording of a rap song

Oleku – Ic Prince

Ten Over Ten – Naeto C

Boys Are Not Smiling – Terry Tha Rapman

Eni Duro – Olamide

She and My Swagga – Ruggedman feat Ice Prince

BEST RAP ALBUM

Best album by a rap artiste or group in year under review

Untouchable – Ruggedman

MI2 – M.I

I Am William – 2Shotz

African American – Sauce Kid

Boys Are Not Smiling – Terry Tha Rapman

LYRICIST ON THE ROLL

Rap Artiste with best lyrical depth and performance on a single song or album

Modenine – Rhyme Tight

Ice Prince – Oleku

MI – Undisputed

Terry Tha Rapman – Boys Are Not Smiling

Vector – Get Down

BEST COLLABO

Best R&B, Pop or hip hop collaborative track (including cameos) in year under review

You Know it – Goldie ft Eldee

Facebook Love – Essence ft Jaywon

Joor Oh (Remix) – Jahbless ft. Ruggedman, Ice Prince, Durella, Reminisce & Eldee

Number One – M.I ft. Flavour

Oleku – Ice Prince ft. Brymo

BEST VOCAL PERFORMANCE (MALE)

Single male artiste with most outstanding vocal performance on a single song or album

Darey – The Way You Are

Bez – More You

Femi – Money Money Money

Timi Dakolo – There Is A Cry

BEST VOCAL PERFORMANCE (FEMALE)

Single female act with most outstanding vocal performance on a single song or album

Waje – For A Minute

Tiwa Savage – Kele Kele Love

Eva – God Hand

Ego – Fall In Love

AFRICAN ARTIST OF THE YEAR

None Nigerian category

Cabo Snoop (Angola) – Windeck

R2Bees (Ghana) – Kiss Your Hand

Liquid Deep (South Africa) – Fairytale

Freshly Ground (South Africa) – Waka Waka

V.I.P (Ghana) – Away

BEST STREET HOP

The most popular street-hop single in year under review

Noni – Samklef

Joor Oh (Remix) – Jahbless ft. Ruggedman, Ice Prince, Durella, Reminisce & Eldee

Eni Duro – Olamide

Kabakaba – Konga

Owusagi – Wizboyy

NEXT RATED

Most promising upcoming officially unreleased act in the year under review

Ice Prince – Oleku

Wizkid – Holler At Your Boy

Olamide – Eni Duro

Tiwa Savage – Kele Kele Love

HIPHOP WORLD REVELATION OF THE YEAR

Best New artiste in the year under review

Dr. Sid

Mo’Cheddah

Jesse Jagz

YQ

Lynxxx

BEST CONSCIOUS SONG OF THE YEAR

Best positive message oriented and social corrective songs that meet judges requirements in areas of composition, production, concept and acceptability.

If You Ask Me – Omawumi

Wild Wild West – M.I

Only Me – 2Face

There Is A Cry – Timi Dakolo

One Day – eLDee Tha Don

HEADIES HALL OF FAME

Special recognition for excellence and outstanding impact to the entertainment industry.

Kelly Rowland Goes Topless On Vibe Cover

US pop star Kelly Rowland has covered the August/September issue of the popular urban journal Vibe Magazine. This is by far her most revealing appearance in print as Kelly down the years had been an almost direct opposite of her former band mate Beyonce.

In this ‘Juice’ edition of Vibe, Kelly speaks about everything from the Knowles in her life to sextoy shopping…

Rowland’s career has blossomed this past few months especially with her ‘Motivation‘ single which features Lil’ Wayne – with pundits saying her long-deserved international success may finally be around the corner.

The edition which will also run an alternate cover with the late singer Amy Winehouse will be released in August 2011.

Gulder Ultimate Search Season 8 To Feature 30 Contestants

The eighth edition of the popular Nigerian TV reality show Gulder Ultimate Search is set to kick off as organizers of the yearly show Nigerian Breweries Plc, makers of Gulder Beer announced on Tuesday, July 26, 2011.

Speaking at the Lagos Brewery Bar, Yusuf Ayeni, Corporate Affairs Adviser, stated that the GUS concept was created to promote the brand’s values of confidence, discernment, focus, courage, determination and success.

Ayeni revealed that this year’s edition which is designed to ‘stretch man to the very limit of his endurance’ will be held at the Egbetua Quarter, Ososo Mountains in Akoko Edo in Edo State.

He also stated that GUS8 will feature 30 contestants battling for the ultimate prize as opposed to the previous editions that had 10 and 12 contestants. Participants as usual will be selected through rigorous physical screening exercises which will be held in four different locations – Lagos, Owerri, Benin and Abuja. The increase in the number of contestants is to make this year’s edition more exciting and engaging both to the audience and the participants.

The winner of the competition, according to him, would smile home with the sum of N7 million, a brand new jeep worth N10 million as well as N500,000 wardrobe allowance; while the first runner up will go home with N2.5 million.

The second runner up gets N1 million, followed by the third runner up who gets N800,000. The fourth, fifth and sixth finalists get N750,000, 700,000 and N650,000 respectively. The seventh, eight, ninth and 10thfinalists will also get N650, 000 N600,000, N550,000 and N500,000 respectively.

The other 20 participants will get N150,000 each. Furthermore, a special prize of N1 million would be awarded to the last woman standing in the competition.

According to him, the success of GUS has led to other mass market brands in the country to adopt the reality TV programmes as a marketing platform to communicate their brand essence and values especially to the youth market segment.

Wizkid, Mo’Cheddah, Fally Ipupa To Perform At Big Brother Amplified Finale

The popular TV reality show Big Brother Amplified comes to an end this weekend as the much awaited grand finale takes place on July 31, 2011. M-Net, organizers of BBA have announced that African acts Wizkid, Mo’Cheddah, Fally Ipupa will grace the stage to perform some of their hit songs. Other acts on the list are South Africa’s Professor, Speedy and Tanzania’s Cpwaa.

Joining them on stage at the Big Brother house will be all the previously evicted housemates from this seasons show including the Brother Amplified dance crew. The finale which will last for just two hours will see only two winners emerge.

‘We’re going all out to amplify the finale. In addition to these great performers, there’s going to be one really magic moment when it becomes clear to the final housemates that this year, there are two prizes. We know, our audiences know but the housemates competing for the big prize don’t know this as yet – and I can only imagine their shock and delight when they find out that there are TWO prizes of USD 200 000’, M-Net Africa Managing Director Biola Alabi tells us.

The top seven housemates competing for this year’s big prize are – Hanni (Ethiopia), Karen (Nigeria), Lomwe (Malawi), Luclay (South Africa), Sharon O (Uganda), Vina (Nigeria) and Wendall (Zimbabwe).

2face Opens Up On Use Of Marijuana To Relax

When it comes to drugs, I can say I drink Panadol sometimes when I have headache. Or I can take Vitamin C.
Marijuana? Yes, I have tried it before. I tried it and I felt ire.


I don’t want to even start encouraging anybody or talking about that. But I am just being truthful. I have done it before.
Cocaine, heroin? I have never taken tried those ones.Never, ever, ever.


I have never taken marijuana to go onstage. It was just for relaxation purpose. But like I said, I don’t even want to go there.
So, let’s leave that. I just knew marijuana wasn’t for me. So I stopped. Because it makes me feel I am in another world.
I stopped using it a couple of years ago. I wouldn’t say it was difficult stopping it. It wasn’t too difficult.
It was just craziness that introduced me to marijuana. You know how youthful energy used to push one into things like that. In those days; I listened to songs like Rolling down the Street Smoking.
All those songs can influence, if you want to be influenced. It is not for me to advise musicians not to write or sing about drugs.
One thing about art is that you cannot hide reality from it. You cannot hide the truth from it. It is just like movies as well. You are depicting reality the way you see it from your perspective.
So if you say they should not show guns in movies, they should not show the bad guys, you are distorting reality. You must present things the way they are. It’s the same thing with music.
Sometimes you want to paint a picture of reality. You can’t run away from that. So you say some of these things. It’s basically left for kids to hear it, for them to feel it and then resist it and they get stronger.
Because, sometimes the kid you are hiding something from, the day he would discover that thing, it would be worse than the one who has seeing it since.
The thing is just to bring up your kids the right way. Not letting them fear, but let them see the truth, the reality and make their choices by themselves.

Project Fame Season 4 Set To Roll

It’s the season of music talent hunts again, guys!

Glo Naija Sings has already kicked off auditions in South-West Nigeria, as the Idols-type competition enters year three.

Nigerian Idol, running into it’s second year, is also warming up to roll tape again.

And we can now confirm, authoritatively, that the fourth edition of MTN Project Fame West Africa, is around the corner. Sources close to the producers Ultima Studios tell us ‘all is set’ for the show’s fourth season.

Auditions will begin in a few weeks, an insider tells us. And this year, when the Academy opens, the location will be around Lekki-Ajah, on the outskirts of Lagos – where the new Ultima Studios is being built. The Omole studio was gulped by fire last year, during season 3.

No details yet on what shape this year’s shape will take. But as usual, it is expected that auditions will hold pan West Africa.

Who’s hosting this year? Any addition/subtraction to the Judges line up or Academy? Find out here, soon…

Singer Slam Quits Music

He’s been a member of the rested pop group Oxygen. He’s been signed to Kennis music, where he scored minor hits and delivered chart-topping videos. He’s lived and schooled and performed in England, where he lived for many years, before finally returning home.

But, since moving back home few years back to pick up his music career where he left it, things have not exactly been rosy for singer-songwriter Slam. And, after a failed album, and a couple of unsuccessful single releases, the soft-spoken singer has taken up employment in a Lagos-based PR firm.

Looks like the singer would like to keep this on the low, but our investigations reveal the singer works at the company, Synthesis Communications as a Business Development/Market Strategy executive. His name and office are listed on their official website. We could not immediately confirm for how long he’s been working there.

On the website, the company says of Slam: ‘Ensures 360 marketing strategy and innovations Co-ordinates brand management activations co-ordinates business trend analysis and market survey. Brief CV: B.Eng. Petrochemical Engineering, MBA (Marketing–Stratford, UK) CCNA (Computer Certification). Over 4 Years experience.’ There’s no mention of his music history.

Other members of the defunct Oxygen include Paul IK Dairo, B-Swave and the deceased Tony Tonero.

2Face Idibia And Kanu Nwankwo Launch Football Talent Search

2face Idibia, Deepak Srivastava and Kanu Nwankwo at the Launch of Airtel Rising Stars

Telecommunication company Airtel has joined hands with Nigerian football star Kanu Nwankwo and African music icon 2face Idibia to launch a talent program called ‘Airtel Rising Stars’. The event which was held in Lagos, was attended by sport practitioners, students, youths from football academy, and journalists.

The program will focus on identifying the upcoming football talents who are under the age of seventeen in the grassroots and will unveil them on the national stage by providing a platform for them to show their skills.

The talent hunt is open to both boys and girls and will be carried out in format of regional and national tournaments and will take place in South Africa under the supervision of the Sport Science Institute of South Africa.

‘The Airtel rising stars program is designed to provide a structured platform for scouts, coaches, football authorities and other partners to tap into a vast pool of upcoming talent, courtesy of the program and build strong soccer talent feeder systems for our league and national teams’, Chief Operating Officer and Executive Director, Airtel Nigeria, Mr. Deepak Srivastava says.

Some of the dignitaries at the event included the Director General of the National Sports Commission, Dr. Patrick Ekeji, Chief Operating Officer, Airtel Nigeria,

Deepak Srivastava, Presidents of the Youth Sports Federation (YSFON), Alhaji Babatunde Ojulari, President of Nigerian School Sports Federation (NSSF), Umar Ibrahim, and Secretary General of All Nigeria Confederation of Principals of Secondary Schools (ANCOPSS), Alhaji Laheem Saheed Olusegun.

Others included the Chief Marketing Officer of Airtel Nigeria, George Andah, Chief Sales Officer, Airtel, Inusa Bello, Director, Public Relations & Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) and the Education Secretary of Ajeromi Ifelodun Local Government, Ajegunle, Lagos.

The registration forms will be available from Airtel offices in the several cities and towns.

Amber Rose Exclusive: ‘I’m From West Africa’

So the controversial Amber Rose had a nice chat with Beat FM 99.9‘s Olisa Adibua this morning, during the station’s Morning Rush belt. No she’s not in town; not coming for the Music Meets Runway event (which STILL HOLDS TOMORROW July 9), and she speaks on this and more, over the phone….

Hello Amber, what’s up with you?

Hey what’s up?! I’m so excited that everyone got in contact with my actual team. I’m really excited; I’m on radio in Nigeria right now.

So let’s know what going on in your life right now, we know there was lack of communication between your people and the organizers. There were a lot of people looking forward to seeing you in Lagos, Nigeria on Saturday, how do you feel and what do you have to say to them?

It is very unfortunate; it happens a lot in all different cities where people try to get an entertainer. Basically, the people that tried to get me to come to Nigeria just got in touch with the wrong people. It was just a big mistake but no one’s fault and I’m just happy that everyone is in touch with my actual team now. So I won’t be able to make it this weekend because I didn’t know about it but I will be coming to Nigeria pretty soon, we are working it all out right now and hopefully I’ll be there in the next two months.

Even though you aren’t going to be there, do you have anything to say about the show?

I really wish I could be there, but I hope everyone one has a wonderful time and everything goes well. Men, it’s just really sad because I know if I was there, I would enjoy it but maybe you know next time, maybe next year.

What are you up to? What projects are you involved in?

I have done one movie right now; I just finished another movie like two months ago. I also have my own reality show coming out, my own makeup line, I have another job with BET. So I’m a very very busy girl and I’ve been doing a lot of fun things. I’ve been through a lot of unfortunate events and right now I just want to be a role model for a lot of young girls.

What’s the thing with you and Wiz Khalifa? Is it true; are you guys seeing each other or is it something that has been made up? Give us the low down and if it’s true, how did you guys hook up?

Oh yea, Wiz and I are so very much in love. He’s a very positive person, he’s a great guy. We actually met on Twitter; we would send each other direct messages and we became friends. After being friends for two months we started dating.

A little birdie tells me that you are from Cape Verde which is not too far from Nigeria so it means you are West African aren’t you?

Well, I’m American, I was born in Philadelphia. I’m an American girl but my family is from Cape Verde, and yes I am West African and I can’t wait to visit the continent and show you guys you make me feel I’m really home.

Thanks very much Amber, we wish you luck with all your endeavours and look forward to seeing you very soon in your homecoming to Nigeria and West Africa.

Yes, I’ll be there soon, definitely. Thanks so much for the support out there, I really appreciate it.

Dr. SID Releases Video To ‘Bamijo’ Ft M.I, Ikechukwu and eLDee da Don

Mo’Hits rapper turned singer Dr. SID is really having it good. A successful switch from from the hiphop genre to pop found him winning over more fans than he ever thought he would have as a rapper. Coupled with being on the Mo’Hits ‘ team, the dentist has really got it going.

‘Bamijo’, the newest single off his album ‘Turning point‘ LP is yet another pop feel. No doubt it’s a syrupy tune and with Nigerian favourites like M.I, Ikechukwu (who I am surprised to see here considering the failed relationship with the Mo’Hits camp) and seasoned musician eLDee da Don.

Directed by noon other than Sesan Ogundairo (the man behind virtually all the Mo’Hits’ videos), ‘Bamijo’ comes alive with every verse. Colourful and catchy, the dance routines are well carried out, each performer brings his own persona out. The branded wears and after effects are also on point. This is well above average.

2 Shotz Introduces The Umunnamu Group With ‘Superman Dead’

After five studio albums which has kept him in the music scene since he first debuted with ‘Pirated Copy‘ in 2004, 2Shotz has the all right to define himself as the meaning of longevity. His last album ‘I Am William‘, might not be his strongest effort but it does manage to seal his claim.
Ready to move on with his carrier, the rapper has signed on to his Umunamu label, two new acts Olstar and Mad Blayze. And just like any outfit, he plans to take over the scene one song after the other.
Their joint effort ‘Superman Dead‘ is not a bad effort too. A mid-tempo bumpy tune, the Umunamu group do justice in their own way to the track. With subsequent releases, will shall know how potent they are. For now we enjoy…

D’banj’s Prancing, Wizkid’s Album, Karen’s Breasts…

‘What if I told you that D’Banj and Don Jazzy have been signed to Kanye West’s record label?’
‘Who doesn’t know? You are making it sound as if it was told to you exclusively. Every living thing within a 100 mile radius of planet earth knows by now, so stop making it sound like breaking news. Psewww.’
‘But have you seen the video of the signing ceremony, if one can call it that? Did you notice that Kanye had not had his bath? It did look very unprofessional, didn’t it? I mean, Kanye and his people looked like they were still wearing what they wore to bed the previous night, right?’
‘What does it matter what they wore and what they looked like? The important thing is that they have now signed our guys to one of the biggest hip hop outfits in the US. A lot of artistes would have given their left kidney to be signed by Kanye, even if it meant he was going to come to the contract signing ceremony butt naked. Hater oshi!’
‘Whatever. At least you can’t say that you didn’t see D’banj prancing about like a festive drumstick …rather childish really. Doing that annoying ‘I’m D’Banj, or Skibanj skit is burdensome, isn’t it? And he did look like he was getting on Kanye’s nerves, right? I thought I also heard the people in the room laughing, you know, like people laugh at circus monkeys or something…you did get that feeling too, right?
‘What nonsense feeling? It’s people like you that that spoil this country! Instead of being happy for the young men, you are spewing nonsense. Did you not see as Kanye was moving his head to the song? Sit down there and be hating o; the boys are hammering big time. They have Bentleys now and you have what? Answer me now, what do you have?! Nonsense.’
‘Ehn, man shall not live by Bentleys alone. And it was the beat Kanye was moving to, for as we know, D’Banj can’t sing.’
‘Did he tell you he was singer? He’s an entertainer, period! Why can’t an artiste be appreciated for what he is, rather than for what you people think he should be?!’
‘Perhaps that explains Wizkid’s album then…’
‘What’s wrong with Wizkid’s album?’
‘I didn’t say anything was wrong with it…just that he might also be an entertainer because he certainly can’t sing.’
‘Of course Wizkid can sing! What’s wrong with you?! He may have got some assistance from auto tune…well, maybe a lot of assistance, actually, but that’s hardly a crime? Besides, he’s barely out of his teens, what do you want from him, a musical cure for cancer? What were you doing with your life at his age?’
‘I am unimportant in this equation, and nothing you say can change my opinion that it is an album of choruses. A few lines make up a verse or something and then chorus takes over and ‘ye ye ye ye’ follows, 1000x. That annoying ‘ye ye ye ye’ thing, present everywhere! I’m sure he learnt it from Banky, you know, that his ‘Yaga yaga eh eh’ stuff. It’s an EME thing, isn’t it? What do you think Skales’ would be, ‘Ye ye yaga yaga’, right?
‘You are impossible to satisfy! Anyway, the young man has successfully launched his album and career…you will go grey hating on his success. Stay there. See your mouth like ‘ye ye ye ye’
‘Oh, where you at the album launch? I hear it was a slightly classier version of a high school prom. I was told that parents came to drop their wards and the mothers had this kind of exchange:  ‘Ah Brenda’s mummy, you too brought Brenda?’ ‘Yes o, I see you brought Yvette too’.
‘Surely, you jest. Did you not see that bigwigs from the entertainment industry represented at the launch? You didn’t see the pictures on different blogs, right? I’m done with this conversation!’ I’m better off watching Big Brother.’
‘Oh, that reminds me: is the Nigerian guy still in the house?’
‘What Nigerian guy? There are two Nigerians in the house and they are both ladies.’
‘Really? I could have sworn that the yellow one with the husky voice, biabia and chicken legs was a guy!’
‘Karen is a lady. Okay, maybe not a lady in the generic sense but I think it is rather disingenuous of you to call her a guy, seeing that she does posses a rather prominent pair of boobs.’
‘Ah ah, I see why you’ve been watching BBA. But they are not hers; she bought them for £4,000, I’m told. Please let’s keep things in perspective.’
‘If she bought them, they belong to her, period. And she will buy more when she wins the prize. You, on the other hand, can only dream of that kind of money. Sad for you.’
‘Win fire! You think they would let her win? It’s amazing how naive you can be. You really don’t know how these things work.’
‘Stay there and be headstrong like plank nailed to a wall. I am done.’
‘Planking!’
‘What?’
‘Planking! Have you too been doing it?’
‘Are you serious? Do you really think that I will engage in such idiocy?! Do not attach my name to such a ridiculous act, please!’
‘I don’t think this issue deserves all this grammar you are blowing…if you don’t want to plank, don’t. But don’t say it’s idiotic just because you don’t appreciate it. That, is what is ridiculous my friend.’

Born Richard Evans Eyimofe Damijo into a polygamous family of 18 children on Tuesday, July 6, 1961 in Warri, the Urhobo–Aladja bound iconic actor-turned-politician started his early days in the Niger Delta. ‘Okan so so Ajanaku’ like the Yorubas would put it, he was the only child of his mother and even if Larry King never saw him grow, you’ll agree to the amount of pressure he must have gone through while growing up, worth being televised. Sometimes the loneliness of not having someone to watch his back when bullied during his days at Warri’s Midwest College, Sapele’s Anglican Grammar School, Okpara Waterside in the defunct Bendel State (the present Delta State) and even during his A-Levels at St. Patrick College in Asaba, the age where some still get bullied in school. Those who take your lunch money and still make you labour for them.
Perhaps it was his irresistible look and amazing charm that marked his hard-to-admit-but-true experience at a young age of 19. Experiences that remain a part of his life till this day. During his years at the University of Benin, his girlfriend got pregnant and like any desperate average young man, he talked her into an abortion which he later found out she never had. And just as he was starting to believe it couldn’t get worse than that, he got another shocker while he was about to launch out to go serve his motherland in the NYSC after graduating in 1983 with a First Class from his father informing him that his new girlfriend was pregnant too. At the age of 19, he already had two children out of wedlock.
He began his professional Nollywood career with ‘Ripples’, a TV soap opera, after the successful completion of his NYSC service in Bauchi State. His first lead role was in ‘The Last Omen’, even though many believe his fame arose in the classic soap opera, ‘Checkmate’ where he played Segun Kadiri alongside iconic stars like Liz Benson and Segun Arinze. However, his years at the university back in ’82 witnessed a great theatrical success with him playing Emeka, a lead character in the drama ‘Echoes of Wrath’, which recorded his break into on-screen significance and the drama later won the NTA National Annual Drama Competition.
RMD also had a stint with Concord Newspaper as a reporter after which he got married to a foremost journalist and publisher, late MEE Mofe – Damijo who founded Classique Magazine. The amazing career woman, amiable talk-show host, mother and philanthropist, MEE (May Ellen Ezekiel) died on Saturday, March 23, 1996. And according to RMD, she remained the great woman who polished him and helped his troubled career, even though many claimed he married her back then for her money. At a point, RMD started Mister Magazine exclusively on men, but this was soon rested and he later returned to acting and public relations.
Returning to academics in 1997, RMD went on to study law at the University of Lagos and graduated in 2004, the same year he innovated the Made in Warri Show.
And in 1999, RMD found love again three years after the death of MEE (May Ellen Ezekiel) Mofe-Damijo in the arms of former AIT presenter, Jumobi Adegbesan.
And on Thursday, January 6, 2011 the couple celebrated their 10th year wedding anniversary.
Before his appointment as the Commissioner for Culture and Tourism, the position which he still holds till date in Delta State, he was the Special Adviser to the Governor on Entertainment by the state government in 2009.
The father of 6 has featured in over 40 Nollywood movies, which include; When God Says Yes with Pete Edochie and Stella Damascus-Aboderin, The Legend with Kate Henshaw-Nuttal, Danger Signal with Desmond Elliot, Critical Decision with Genevieve Nnaji and Stephanie Okereke, Bridge-Stone with Liz Benson and Zack Orji, Indecent Girl with Ini Edo, Indecent Act with Rita Dominic and Critical Assignment with international star, Hakeem Kae-Kazim (Hotel Rwanda 2004).
Hon. Richard Mofe-Damijo without doubts is an example of an average Nigerian man who looked life in the eyeball and dared against all odds. Judging from where he stands today, RMD is a true Made Man. Amongst his many achievements is the historical commendable credit of bagging the Best Actor prize at the maiden edition Africa Movie Academy Awards in 2005.
Happy 50th Birthday, Richard

Ara Tells Us Her Marriage Is Over!

Ara and her husband at their wedding ceremony in 2009

It’s over; all over between drummer girl Ara and her prince charming Nurudeen!
The lovebirds, who made us joyous as they told their love story shortly before tying the knot in June 2009, have been separated since January this year. And Ara, who announced the separation this week, says there’s no going back.
Sources say the marriage is in the process of annulment, and that both parties ‘have moved on’.
‘Ara is back in Ajao estate with her family‘ one insider tells us. ‘While her former husband has also started another life‘.
Our source says the reason for the break, is ‘complicated’. ‘But I believe any man that treats his wife the way he treated her, is not ready to make that marriage work‘.
In a statement issued by BlackHouse Media, on behalf of the musician, Ara says  ‘We’ve been separated since January‘, the musician says. ‘But because I do not want rumours to start flying, and I think, out of respect, all my friends and fans need to know what’s happening to me, I think it’s right to set the records straight once and for all on this. We’re no longer together and we’re both happy. We’ve both moved on‘.
‘I’m single again. But I will not be searching for now‘.
‘I’ve taken this decision very painfully; and it’s particularly a tough and sensitive time for me and my son. And I plead with my friends and fans to put us in their prayers at this period‘.
Ara got married to Nurudeen, a Lagos Prince on June 4, 2009 at the Oshodi/Isolo registry in Lagos. The pair had been dating for a while and had just returned from the US where they hibernated after Ara ‘escaped’ from her controversial Atunda Records deal.
They have a baby together.

Mo’Hits Searches for First Lady

Koko Mansion Winner, Bolanle Okhiria

The second season of Koko Mansion will kick off in a matter of months.
But unlike the debut edition of the reality show which sought to find ‘the ideal Nigerian woman’, this time, Mo’Hits Records, owners of the property, say they’re altering the concept.
‘This time around, we’re searching for the first Lady of Mohits‘, D’banj said at a recent news conference.
One insider tells us plans for Koko Mansion 2 have reach advanced stages; although not much has been concluded.
One thing is sure though: the show will not run on cable platform HiTV. We’re told Mohits and HITV are yet to resolve issues arising from Koko Mansion in 2009.
Bolanle Okhiria, aa Lagos-based presenter and actress won that edition. Part of the issues observers have raised: she never became D’banj’s date for a year as was promised on the show promo; she never got a Chris Aire diamond ring; never got the convertible car that was promised (Okhiria drives a 2007 Model Mitsubishi Outlander 4WD); and only featured as an extra, in Dbanj’s ‘Fall in love‘ video with Genevieve Nnaji as the star of the video.
We’re told the organisers would be looking at preventing a recurrence of this, as the show enters a second season…

Rapper Bow Wow Announces He’s a Dad!

After stalling for sometime, US rapper Bow Wow has come out in the open to announce that he now has a daughter!
In the late hours of Wednesday, July 7, 2011, the rapper explained that he had held back the announcement because he was somewhat ‘nervous’ about how his numerous fans would feel about him.
In a letter released by the rapper, he stated in it that his daughter is ‘the illest thing of my life’. He also wrote in his letter that he would definitely be keeping his daughter out of the eyes of the public and paparazzi, explaining that he just wants her to live a ‘normal life’.
Read the full, unedited letter below…
‘Let me start off by saying i love my fans. With out yall i wudda been left the game. For the past 3 years i been batteling life. Even thought about taking my own. I felt like as a kid i did everything and saw everything too fast which spoiled my adult years. I felt as if i had no purpose to live(Thinking selfishly) until god gave me the illest gift of my life. No lambo, no blk card nuffn ammounts to my lil girl. I waited so long to tell yall the truth because i was nervous on how yall would look at me. Yall know everyone makes a big deal out of everything i do. I wanted to be 1st n let yall know the real. My lil girl is getting BIG fast. i love every minute of it. She inspires me to go harder.Even made me treat my mother better, its like it made me into a man over night. Never been a fan of posting pix of my daughter. Reason is because i want my boo boo to have everything i didnt. Want her to be able to cheerlead with her lil friends with out some a–hole sticking his camera all in my lil girl face. I know how fame is. I missed out on so much that i now know how important it is to cherish and have those things in your life. Yes! I change diapers. Aint as bad as i thought hahaha. I want her to live with me so bad. Jus us 2. Thats my dream man but fellas yall know how it go. Baby gotta stay with they momma and all dat bull. I hate that! So i have to fly 5 hrs away to see her. I find myself going into my i phone book jus lookn at pix of her. Sometimes i tear up cuz i just cant believe it brotha be emotional. All in all im good. This is my 1st. I know all my fans gone support me and ride for her like yall been doin my whole career. To the ones that say ‘Im heart broken how can he do that to us’ well i do have a life thats not all about movies or making albums. Im 24 now. I cant wait 4eva. Im happy and if your a fan then ud be happy too cuz yall gone be with me every step of the way. The bs that comes with having a baby momma is expected. So i neva trip. Jus gotta suck it up keep chin high and try not let her get the best of my feelings by playin them stupid games. Ima stay positive and keep maintaining long as i got yall i cant lose. I love yall. And shai shai daddy love u too! Wizzle!!!!’
-  Boweezy, Cash Money/Young Money.
Born Shad Gregory Moss, the 24-year-old has released six studio albums and is gearing up for the release of his seventh, ‘Underrated’.

Fivemics and BrymO Dish Out ‘Five Blessings’

Stanley Ikegbulam better known to the Hip-hop community as Fivemics or 5mics has been around the Hip-hop scene longer than you might know. His 2005 single ‘Gemini‘ with veteran MC Modenine was an anthem back then and it was expected of him to take it up another notch with a follow up single, a record deal or something enterprising.
Sadly, he has not been able to hit the mark – I’ll say he has been unlucky because, after a fast listen of an average 5mic song, you’ll reckon with why he picked up his moniker (5Mics in Hip-hop grammar means ‘A Classic’).
Now with M.et.al Management (the management company responsible for Kel, Wizkid, Skales, Slim T), the Abuja born rapper is looking forward to bigger things, little wonder he calls on the Choc City ‘hook killer’, BrymO to finish up this up-tempo single. 5Mics does sound a little bit like fellow emcee Jesse Jagz, but he holds his own with simplified lyrics to entertain his average listener…Thumbs up.

Christy Essien Igbokwe: A Tribute To Nigeria’s Lady Of Songs

Here is how I remember Christy Essien Igbokwe: I’m seated on the floor of my father’s sitting room, close to the television set. It’s the early 80’s. ‘Seun Rere’ comes on and I remember the rumours that that came with its popularity: the singer had won a major international award with the song. Part of the price was a limousine; a long white limousine which she used to shoot the video for the song. I can’t remember if I had seen a Nigerian music video before that. I immediately became fascinated with this woman who got an international award and a long car just because she sang a song. A few years later, I would come to know her as ‘Apena’ Jegede Shokoya’s wife, in the popular NTA comedy series, The New Masquerade.
Over the years I have come to follow her career through music, advocacy, politics and administration. You could probably fault her for many things, but passion will not be one of them. Realising her first album at 16, she went on to many successes, including becoming the first female President of the Performing Musicians Association of Nigeria (PMAN). Her passion for the things she held dearly showed through her music, including tracks like ‘Hear the Children Crying’ ‘It’s Time’ and ‘Akwa Ibom Mi’. Looking through her body of work, it is interesting to note that she shared that rare quality that her generation of Nigerian artistes seemed to posses effortlessly: the ability to sing in many Nigerian Languages. She sang in Yoruba, Ibo and her native Ibibio and was a crossover artiste in the true sense of the word.
Sadly, like many of her contemporaries, her musical career seems to have plummeted along with the demise of record labels in Nigeria. Somehow, her generation of Nigerian artistes did not make the transition to what currently obtains in the Nigerian music scene. Probably because they started their careers being signed to proper record labels, even international ones, it was hard to survive in the unstructured industry that came up after the likes of Polygram, Ivory, Emi, Tabansi etc had gone under.
At 51, Christy Essien Igbokwe could have stayed with us a while longer. I actually was a bit shocked to find out that she was ‘merely’ fifty-one. However much longer we would have wanted her to be around, decisions concerning who lives and who leaves for the great beyond her out of our mortal hands. Let us be grateful for her immense contributions to our national heritage; let us find solace in the music she brought forth with dignity and passion. Let us not be too sad that we have lost her at a relatively young age; let us be grateful that we ever had her at all.
Rest in Peace, dear Lady of Songs…

Wake The Sleeping Prophetess!

Sitting in her conference room with a few other colleagues the other day, nothing warned us, at least not me, that it would be Lady Christy’s last interaction with the press and hence the public. Date was November 2nd, 2010 and it was nine days to her 50th birthday.
The purpose was simple and defined: the journey so far and the future in view. Received by her husband who manages her affairs and runs the family company, the celebrant walked in dazzling in a red Kaftan, head tie and her signature red lipstick. And the atmosphere changed almost instantly.
There’s always been this spiritual side to Christy either as Essien or Essien-Igbokwe. On this particular day, she wore it like gloves. Apart from speaking on her thirty-one-year-old marriage, thirty-four-year-old music and movie career, her all male children, PMAN – which she formed and remains only female president of in history, her awards and her ‘hey-days’ of fame; Christy spoke freely, perhaps for the first time, of how she interacted with angels and heavenly bodies without inhibition.
And even though she made it sound as simple, effortless and natural as possible, she reminded us quite subtly of her ‘extra-terrestrial powers’ and capabilities. She was a pleasant and queer being. If before that day I had ever nursed an evil thought towards Christy, I would have stooped to my knees, confessing and begging for forgiveness. Yes, the atmosphere was that intense, and spooky if I must say.
Starting out early in life on her own, she held on to her late mother’s prophecy of greatness. Her fearless teenage years, as she narrated in that interview, later graduated to being mystical as angels gave her songs and album titles, which spurned hits after hits with a limousine parked in her residence till date, as part of her trophies. Her name has been around for so long that we argued her age right before her that last day.
It is impossible to think or believe that Christy had no premonition of her death and that she would surrender to death in sickness. It is easier to believe that it was a spiritual battle and her angels were running other errands when the evil one snuffed life out of her. Or could it be that spiritually gifted Christy decided to walk through the valley of death out of her own volition? It would be even more believable to hear that Uduak Essien prophesied her own death and perhaps much more prior to her taking ill or while on her sick bed. Is Christy Uduak Essien Igbokwe really gone?
She loved to laugh. And she did a lot. Whether as the wife of Jegede Shokoya (a cantankerous role she played for many years in ‘New Masquerade‘, a famous early TV soap in Nigeria) or when on stage as Nigeria’s lady of songs; Christy’s life spoke of real life struggles and sermonized women and children. Now that she is no more, and with the romance-crazed generation we have today, who will preach to our children. Nje omo mi a seun rere bi?

NETPod: Fivemics and BrymO Dish Out ‘Five Blessings’ » Darey ‘Not Performing’ At Music Meets Runway

R&B star Darey ‘will not be co-hosting’ the  the forthcoming ‘Music Meets Runway’ fashion show which is coming up in a matter of days. This was announced by his publicists BlackHouse Media on Thursday June 30.
In a widely-circulated statement, Darey says he’s shocked to see his name being advertised as one of the lead performers at the fashion show holding on Thursday, 30, 2011.
‘We do not only find news reports and releases from the organisers mischievous; but also misleading and unprofessional. And we’d like the general public to know that Darey is not in anyway, directly or remotely involved with this event’, the statement reads.
‘Our Lawyers are already in touch with them, hoping they will correct this misinformation, with the clear stand that if this is not done, we will be willing to pursue legal means available to us…’
The fashion event, which sources say will go on as scheduled, despite the unfortunate situation with host Amber Rose’s nude pictures leaking online yesterday, is a fashion show, interspersed with music interludes concert style.
Music meets Runway is sponsored by Samsung and MTN. There are reports Banky W, who recently signed up as an ambassador with Samsung has been engaged to co-host and also perform.