Rick Ross to return to Nigeria

Maybach Music head honcho, Rick Ross would be making a return to Nigeria for a concert organized by Kilimanjaro and Storm 360. He was in Lagos for the MTV Africa Music Awards that took place on the 4th of December.

The show tagged Lagos Shut Down Concert also has M.I., Naeto C, Dr Sid, Ice Prince, YQ, WIzkid and Iyanya.

Kilimanjaro Entertainment, the outfit responsible for a number of top level concerts in the earlier part of the decade, with Boys 2 Men, Joe, Sean Paul being just some of the major talents they successfully delivered in major concerts return to the game with this show which is destined to be one of the best shows this season in Nigeria.

Jahbless’ album (Overground) drops Dec 23rd. Sneak Peek + Tracklist

1. Moving too fast
2. Bere mole ft. Reminisce
3. Tete lo bere
4. Rock da party ft. Svee
5. No one knows
6. Muzzing muzz (radio skit)
7. Joor (remix) ft. Iceprince, Reminisce, Durella, Ruggedman & Eldee
8. Layemi
9. Panya panya ft. Don Tom
10. Hangover ft. ID Cabasa
11. Di dada ft. Reminisce
12. The one ft. Banky W
13. Rock my world
14. Far away ft. J.O.H.N & Jospo
15. Waving drag

Fuji musician, Ayinde Barrister, is dead

FUJI music exponent, Alhaji (Dr) Sikiru Ayinde Balogun, popularly known as Barrister, is dead. He died on Thursday morning at St Mary’s Hospital, London, United Kingdom, after developing complications as a result of surgery he underwent recently to

extract excess fat from his body. He was 62. His death was confimed by one of his sons, Wale, popularly known as Barry Showkey, who spoke to the Nigerian Tribune from London.



About three months ago, Barrister was admitted to a German hospital where about 32kg of fat was extracted from his body. Before this, he had undergone surgery at an Indian hospital, but on his return to Nigeria, he developed some complications, and he travelled to Germany for further medical treatment.

While in Germany, news filtered through that Barrister had died. That news shook his fans and artistes who looked up to him for guidance, but he quickly came out to debunk the death rumour.

Barrister’s brand of music (Fuji), was initially believed to be for touts and bus drivers, but today, fans cut across all classes of the society, due to the modernisation of the music by Barrister and youthful artistes who now dominate the Fuji scene.

While Barrister was active on the music scene, there was great rivalry between him and Alhaji (‘General’) Ayinla Kollington, another veteran Fuji artiste.

Before becoming a full-time musician, Barrister was a soldier and he fought in the Nigerian Civil War. He so much cherished the memories of the war that he sang often about it in his albums.

In one of his albums, he sang that he feared nothing in life because he had been to the war front and nothing could be more terrible than that.

Also, Barrister loved his mother so much that he mentioned her struggles to bring him up in almost all his albums.

Barrister, also known as Alhaji Agba, touched the lives of his fans in one way or the other through his music.

His music is also very philosophical. In his lifetime, he was the subject of various rumours, innuendoes and distortions, but always came out stronger after each time.

Brief History
Alhaji Sikiru Ayinde Balogun was born in Lagos on February 9, 1948. After creating a genre of music, he named it Fuji, which he got from Mount Fuji, the Japanese Mountain of love. Fuji is a combination of the Were beat, Juju, Apala and traditional Yoruba praise poems.

Upon his discharge from the army, where he fought in the Nigerian civil war, Barrister formed his musical group, The Supreme Fuji Commanders.

He has his fan clubs spread across the country, especially in the northern part like Kano, Kaduna, Zaria, Jos, among other states.

Meanwhile Nigerians have started reacting to his death.
According to Yinka Ayefele, “the death of Sikiru Ayinde Barrister is still a shock to me. He was a great man and he created the Fuji music that is waxing stronger by the day. May God grant him eternal rest.

Former governor of Osun State, Prince Olagunsoye Oyinlola, described his death as a big loss to the country.

Oyinlola, in a statement, on Thursday, said, the death of Barrister had left the nation poorer, just as it had robbed the entertainment industry of one of its pillars.

The Oyo State governor, Chief Adebayo Alao-Akala, said the late Sikiru Ayinde would be missed for the message of his lyrics.
In a condolence message signed by his Special Adviser on Public Commu-nications, Dotun Oyelade, the governor said the deceased was a world class entertainer when he was alive.

Tha Suspect drops I Am Music.. The Producer Album

Capital Hill music producer/ recording artist Tha Suspect drops his debut cd I Am Music…the producer album on December 14th.

“It is called a Producer album because it show cases Tha Suspect much more as a producer than as vocalist and features a heavy collage of various artistes (notable and upcoming) of different sounds and styles with Tha suspect only on the hook on some of the songs”, says his management..

Tha Suspect produced Kel’s “The Investment album”, Rooftop Mcs “for my life”, Teeto Ceemos “oshamo” and more… Finally the musical Crase man is set to drop a collection of his own works.

Dem Don Dey Move, Tuaile, Mugu, I Go Make Am are some of the cuts that have been released as singles and songs like For My Life remix with Rooftop Mcs, Mike Anyasodo & Kefee, I No Send You with Wyclef Jean and various artistes which received a lot of rave reviews on the internet are some of the tracks that made the album.

Collaborating artistes include Blak Twang, Ill bliss, Pasuma Wonder, Timaya, Terry G, MI, Jaywon, Sasha, Muna(Munachi Abi), Vector, Shank, Zee and more.

I Am Music is an eclectic album and is to be distributed nationwide by Sammyvibes entertainment.

Tha Suspect and his Capital hill music family are to celebrate the album release on December 16th at club Volar by Vuitton, VI with fans, the featured artistes and other entertainment industry heads.

Also there will be an autograph signing session for fans on the December 18th at The Hub, Palms, Lekki, Lagos.

MI sells MI 2's distribution rights for N 20 million

For the first time, a Nigerian artiste came clean on the financial value of his album.

"This is not to prove any point, it's only to inspire someone that we are doing this. Mr Abhu can you step up please" said M.I, and with that intro, CEO Abhu ventures, a strong force in the Alaba 'conglomerate' presented a N20million cheque to M.I in exchange for distribution rights to his MI2 album through out West Africa.

Sasha, JMartins To Perform At The MAMAs

Here’s fresh news coming in – Nigerian rapper Sasha and singer-producer JMartins have joined the long list of performers at the third edition of the MTV Africa Music Awards coming up next weekend in Lagos.

Sasha, who has seen her career rise these past months, winning back-to-back awards and improving her live performance, is also a nominee for Best Female at the MAMAs. JMartins, widely known accross the continent for his debut hit ‘Good or Bad’, is one of the most promising talents on the continent right now. It is therefore not surprising, that both acts are joining bonafide superstars Rick Ross, 2face Idibia, Wande Coal and Fally Ipupa to light up this year’s MAMAs, alongside other performers.

Other newly announced performers include Sarkodie (Ghana), Diamond (Tanzania), Paul G (Angola), Barbara Kanam (DRC), The Parlotones (South Africa) and Radio&Weasel (Uganda).

MAMA 2010 is scheduled to hold at the new Expo Centre of Eko Hotel on Saturday December 11, 2010- and we have been told, by very reliable sources, that apart from hip hop rave Rick Ross, the organisers are also warming up to announce another major international headliner…Who will it be? We’ll keep you posted!

Rick Ross, Wande Coal others make MAMA ‘10 performance list

As the countdown begins to the 2010 MTV Africa Music Awards (MAMA), four more awesome artists have been added to the performer roster for Africa’s most exciting music event USA hip hop star Rick Ross, Kenya’s P-Unit, South Africa’s Jozi and Nigeria’s Wande Coal will join previously announced performers DJ Arafat (Ivory Coast), 2FACE (Nigeria), Daddy Owen (Kenya), Banky W (Nigeria), Fally Ipupa (DRC), Teargas (South Africa) and Cabo Snoop (Angola).

Visiting Africa for the first time to take part in the 11 December spectacular, US rapper Rick Ross has been described by the New York Times as “one of rap’s most potent and creative forces”.

The tattoo-loving, six-foot, larger-than-life rap figure first came to attention with “Hustlin”, his 2006 debut single. Influenced by artists like Luther Campbell and Notorious B.I.G, Ross, a.k.a. William Roberts, aimed to put Miami back in rap’s national spotlight and went on to do just that with his 2006 album “Port of Miami”, which went to number one on the Billboard album chart.

Similar acclaim followed for “Trilla” (2007) and “Deeper Than Rap” (2009), while his 2010 album release “Teflon Don”, which debuted at number two on the US Billboard 200, has garnered critical acclaim for its emotional depth, cinematic production, sleek, synth-heavy beats, and rich soundscapes.

Ross is nominated in the Best International category at the MAMA awards.

Making their first appearance at the MAMAs, Best Group contenders P-Unit are going head to head against Uganda’s Radio & Weasle, South Africa’s Teargas and multiple MAMA winners and Nigerian music phenomenon, P_Square.

As well as performing at the 2010 show, former MAMA winners Jozi are also nominated in the Artist of the Year category, where they are pitched against 2FACE, P_Square and Fally Ipupa. Wande Coal faces a tough race in the Best Anglophone category, where Ghana’s Sarkodie, Kenya’s Daddy Owen and South Africa’s Biz Nuz are also in the running.

The MTV Africa Music Awards with Airtel takes place on Saturday 11 December 2010

2 yrs after, Daniel Wilson returns to music

Twelve years after the release of his last album, acclaimed Original Bad Boy and the still one of the most influential musicians in the country, Daniel Wilson is back on the block.

The River state born musician who once held sway as the hottest dance hall reggae musician and melted so many a ladies heart with his very potent lyrical delivery has taken a break from his bakery business to do what he knows best how to.

In a message posted on his wall last Thursday being his birthday, the handsome tweeted thus “ Oh My God! It really is my birthday today! Wow!

You all know I planned to mark it with the release of a new album “Cool & Deadly”, first from me in twelve since I took a break to build the largest bread industry in Africa, Wilson’s Foods!

As you know, only Jehovah disposes our plans!

Well, the album is ready for airplay …in a few days but the album sleeve is now my profile picture. Enjoy! Half bread, as they say is..

Terry tha rapman drops new album

Terry tha Rapman... Whom has been the most relevant rap act this year has released his much is much anticipated album which he titled (BOYZ R NOT SMILIN) ...with hit singles like Sample RMX which earned him two HipHop World Awards nominations for the Best Rap Single (which he won) and Best Collaboration (won by Keffy). The same song was recently nominated for the Best Collaboration In A Music Video at the SMVA.

This album has been tagged the album of the year by industry greats with its second single titled (Boyz Don Hammer) sitting currently on the number one spot of the MTN Radio Top Ten Nigeria while the third single Ojoro which features Terry G is also already a street anthem.

Terry recently dropped another video which is the intro track of th album to the public this track is titled (BOYZ R NOT SMILIN) which also doubles has the name of the album. The video already has been receiving loads of good comments and has been well received by both the media and the general public.

The Boyz Don Hammer video is set to follow in a couple of weeks.

The album release party is also scheduled for the 13th of November at Club 10 (46, Saka Tinubu, VI)

MI – Undisputed Champion

Mr Incredible is back with the official single off his sophomore album MI2. I do believe that MI is UNDISPUTED!

What about you.

Listen to the track below

Vector and Overdose drop new albums

YSG rapper, Vector tha Viper has finally released his much anticipated debut album, ‘State of surprise'. The album, his debut, which was initially planned for a midyear release was released on October 31 with an official listening party held at Q Club off Allen Avenue in Ikeja, Lagos. Similarly, ‘Extreme Music' rapper, Overdose released his sophomore album, ‘Hustle or Die' on Friday October 27.

D’banj collaborates with Snoop Dog

Nigeria's MTV Europe Music Awards winning singer, D'Banj has recorded a track, "Mr. Endowed Remix" with American rapper, Snoop Dogg.

Although a verbal confirmation from Mo'Hits has not been made, the label boss, Don Jazzy, uploaded a cover art for the track on his twitter account, giving credence to the story. It however remains a debate if the new track will be released as single or fans will be made to wait till the full album drops.

Asa to release new album - Beautiful Imperfection

Nigerian soul singer Asa’s highly anticipated, Beautiful Imperfection is released in October – view the album art, tracklisting and preview video. The planned due date for the album is October 25, 2010. The pictures for her album were shot by award winning French fashion photographer and music video director, Jean Baptiste Mondino. He is popular for shooting videos for Madonna, Lenny Kravitz, Keziah Jones as well as Sting.

Find below, the complete tracklisting for the soon-to-be-released album:

1.Why Can’t We
2.Maybe
3.Be My Man
4.Preacher Man
5.Bimpé
6.The Way I Feel
7.OK OK
8.Dreamer Girl
9.Oré
10.Baby Gone
11.Broda Olé
12.Questions

ELDee Returns To Shooting Videos

The multi-talented Nigerian Hip-hop pioneer, eLDee, who is popular for his work as a singer, songwriter, rapper and music producer has decided to up the ante by going back behind the camera as a music video director.

eLDee’s decision to resume shooting videos has already started to yield dividends as he has been contracted to work with a handful of talents. Just last week, eLDee was on set as director for soul singer, Lami’s ‘Ere-Ife’, which he co-wrote and on which he also features. The video was shot at exclusive locations around Lagos.

A few weeks ago, he shot the video for Timi D Black One’s ‘Police’. Timi, an alumnus of eLDee’s Trybe Records, recently resurfaced from a long hiatus after completing his university education. Now a certified dentist (like another eLDee protégé, Dr. Sid of Mo’ Hits), Timi’s street banger is already getting a lot of airplay on radio. The video will see eLDee re-cementing his position as a talented video director in an industry that is flooded with lackluster videos.

In the past eLDee had directed and co-directed popular videos such as: ‘Plenty Nonsense’ for Trybesmen, ‘Carry Am Go’ for 2Shotz, ‘Emi Le Gan’ for Sasha, and ‘Don’t Stop’ for Dr Sid. He also directed ‘I Go Yarn’, ‘Im leaving’, ‘Champion’, and ‘Bosi Gbangba’ for himself.

eLDee has been busy shooting videos in the past few months. He directed seven videos off his Is It Your Money? album – ‘One Day’ -- A track which points out the continued failure of our Leaders and their successive governments; the club banger, ‘Ota Mi’ which has been released; ‘Respect me’, ‘Fly Away’, ‘Na You’, ‘You blow my mind’ and ‘Koleyewon’, which are yet-to-be-released. Other videos yet to be released that are shot by eLDee include ‘My guys dem’ where he features with Proto (The Nigerian half of the sensational group Chiddy Bang), and ‘Omo Naija’ where he features with Uk based Bigz, and the dynamic hip-hop duo of SAS.

‘One Day’ is a part of eLDee’s continued fight and passion for social change in Nigeria. He has repeatedly put his weight behind pressure groups such as #LightupNigeria and #EnoughIsEnough.

eLDee, who was behind such hits as ‘Bosi gbangba’, ‘Big Boy’, and more recently, ‘You Know It’ by Goldie and ‘Ota mi’ by himself, is the founder of Trybesmen and Trybe Records. He is a consummate music producer, recording artiste, songwriter and a qualified architect. His solo career hits like ‘African Chiquito’, ‘I go yarn’, ‘Champion’, ‘Im leaving’, ‘Bosi gbangba’, and ‘Big boy’ have been aired on radio stations all over the world. His latest album ‘Is It Your Money?’ was released March 2010 and boasts of successful singles like ‘Ota Mi’, ‘You blow my Mind’, ‘Feel good music’ and ‘One Day’.

Iceprince drops " official" debut single

With M.I. supposedly quitting music, Chocolate city would be putting forward that debut effort from the ‘adopted’ Abaga brother – Panshak ‘Ice Prince’ Zamani. Ice prince finally released his debut single titled ‘Oleku’ featuring another fast rising singer, Brymo.

He started performance and rap while in secondary school, (Science Tutorial College, Jos). In 2002, he got together with a couple of his friends and formed a group called the Ecomog Squad. They had a few performances as a group and split a year later.

In 2004, he hooked up with M.I, Jesse Jagz, Ruby, Lindsey, Eve, Taz and together they became what is now ‘Loopy’.

Same year, ‘Extraordinary’ his what-could-be-said-to-be debut single hit the waves in Jos and it gradually made him known in and around Jos city.

He contested with artistes like Bez, Mocheddah, Blaise, Jimmy Flames at the Hennessy Artistry that held in Lagos all through September 2009 and was declared winner of the Hennessy Artistry 2009.

Before Oleku, there was ‘Rewind‘ and a studio leak featuring his manager with Rewind topping radio charts but failing to catch with fans. Oleku has been branded as his debut by the label..

Jay Martins Signs with Storm Records

Talented songwriter, producer and singer, Jay Martins has signed a deal with Storm records to manage him.

Seems like a nice move. What do you think?

Nigga Raw changes name, now Mr Raw Nwanne

Okechukwu Ukeja popularly known as Dat Nigga Raw has been forced to change his moniker. It is informed to be a rebranding process following numerous complaints by media personalities as many can’t say the N-word. The highly accented Igbo rapper would make a switch to Mr. Raw Nwanne.

“He change his name on the many complaints he gets by particularly the electronic media not being able to say the N-word”, a rep of his informed.

There are speculations that his next album that’s his third would be his last. The album is tentatively titled ‘End of Discussion’ with a single titled ‘O Chukwu (Na God)’ already on radio and TV.

P-Square are new Glo Ambassadors

Globacom on Tuesday in Lagos formally signed on hip hop sensation duo, Peter and Paul of P_Square as brand ambassadors at a breathtaking ceremony which also saw the contracts for other Glo ambassadors renewed.
The event, held at the Mike Adenuga Towers in Lagos, was another opportunity for the crop of Globacom ambassadors to reaffirm their commitment to the telecom icon for endorsing them and for taking such a commendable step to lift Nigeria’s entertainment industry to a higher pedestal.

P_Square, the newest addition to the classy list of Glo ambassadors, described the endorsement as a welcome recognition of the group’s contribution to the entertainment industry in Nigeria and indeed Africa, adding that this would spur the duo to greater achievements in the music industry.

Globacom’s Group Chief Operating Officer, Mr Mohamed Jameel said that the engagement of P_Square as brand ambassador and the renewal of the contract for others was a testimonial to the willingness of Globacom to always recognise the vast, shining talents that abound in the country.

“P_Square remains a well focused and popular music group and the youths of this country and this continent would find the group worthy of emulation. The choice of P_Square to join our brand ambassadors was therefore not misplaced. We have

carefully selected our crop of brand ambassadors and we believe they represent the very best in their chosen professions,” he disclosed.

“We have been actively projecting enterprising Nigerians who have excelled in their fields of endeavour. We are of the firm belief that their faces would help fire the aspirations and dreams of many youths to reach for their goals and rule their world”, Mr Jameel added.

He also said that the feedback from the public largely influenced the renewal of the contracts of the ambassadors as there has been wide acceptance and recognition for the step taken by Globacom to lift the status of Nigerian stars.

Stars whose contracts were renewed at the event included Ramsey Nouah, Desmond Elliot, Jim Iyke, Mike Ezuruonye, Nuhu Aliyu, Kate Henshaw-Nuttal and Ini Edo-Phillip Ehiagwina. Others were Uche Jombo, Monalisa Chinda, Funke Akindele, Nonso Diobi, Sanni Denja and Mohammed Yakubu.

Also on the bill were Pasuma Wonder, Original Stereoman (Ekwe), Ego Ogbaro, Sammie Okposo and ace comedian, Basketmouth.

Majek Fashek resurrects in movie

While a movie paying tributes to one of Nigeria’s greatest soccer stars, former captain of the Super Eagles, Austin Jay Jay Okocha is receiving finishing touches in New York, arrangement has reached its peak for the shooting of a bio-pic on Nigeria’s superstar reggae artiste Majek Fashek.

Majek described by his teeming fans as “a prophet and a poet” is one of Africa’s revered contemporary musical performers, rivalling compatriots Alpha Blondy and Lucky Dube in recognition and popularity around the world.

But like a candle in the wind, the reggae star has disappeared from the scene leaving in its stead, a permanent vacuum where a once blossoming musical career existed.The screenplay written by cerebral and easy-going film producer, Charles Novia is starring award winning actor, Francis Duru as Majek Fashek alongside Sam Dede, Stella Damasus and other top Hollywood actors.

According to Novia, the movie which he is shooting on 35mm and took about three years to finetune is presently at pre-production stage after which the casts will travel to New York, in October, to shoot the American scenes that make up more than half of the movie.

Duru, HVP gathered has been undergoing guitar lessons, character assimilation and extensive study of Majek for the past eight months to fit into the role.

“For the past three years, I have been working on the bio-pic on Majek Fashek. We are at the last stage of production after which we’d leave for New York to complete the shooting of the film in October. .”

“Whatever his travails and the public perceptions of him, Majek is remains world class material, who has promoted so much interest world wide with his genre of music.

Therefore, a movie on his life and career has to meet world standard.”

Terry Tha Rapman read to drop 2nd Album

Ladies and gentlemen, Terry Tha Rapman is set to release his highly anticipated second album - 'BOIZ ARE NOT SMILIN' and videos to push the August album release are strategically in the making.

Fans should expect videos for the lead single, "Boiz Don Hammer" and "Ojoro" featuring Terry G. Both videos are surrendered to the respected ingenuity of ace video director, Clarence Peters.

It may interest you to know that Terry's sophomore release is a generous assembly of creative talents like Sound Sultan, M.I, Kefee, Mode 9, Mo'Cheddah, Pherowshuz, Cartiair and of 'cause Terry G to mention a few. The collection of grand opuses was powered by seasoned producers like - Jay Sleek, XO and E-twins.

To drop the album with the most deserving buzz, proper release parties will be held in four different cities - Lagos, Abuja, Calabar and Owerri, says his manager, Ademola Adeyeni. "We won't only have parties in four cities, Terry will also be touring nine states including Rivers, Oyo, Abuja and his home city, Benue".

As part of strategy to open up Terry to the international market, his management, BlackHouse Incorporated, are presently tiding up arrangements to move the rapper through particular cities in the UK, Sweden, Spain and Cyprus.

The Megaphunk Records signed artiste can hardly wait as he looks forward to a wonderful outing with his sophomore. "I'm really looking forward to August. The album is finished. We're just waiting for the date to catch up with us. This is going to be a spectacular album", Tha Rapman says.

The Hip Hop World Award 2010 'Best Rap Single winner will do more than promote his sophomore album on his tours. Terry will also show off proper his fashion sense which has culminated in a clothing line powered by Marco Martinez. A few talks are also ongoing in the line of corporate endorsement, so don't be surprised when you spot the rap star on the next bill board.

Sauce Kid's African- American Album set for release

The Long Awaited Debut Album From Sauce Kid is finally ready and about to be available, Storm Records is proud to announce that Sauce Kid has completed his Opus and that the final master has been received for The album African-American, four years in the making this album attempts to show the many sides of Sauce Kid and enables fans and new listeners to connect with one of the most talented rappers of his generation.

Sauce Kid is a renowned MC with the ability to slay all types of beats, he is battle tested on the mixtape circuit and over the past few years has become a professional recording artist. He has been on many stages in America, UK. South Africa and Nigeria connecting with his audience and spreading the gospel as he went through the process to begin to establish himself as one of the key players in Nigeria’s emerging Hip Hop Aristocracy.

Storm is proud to make available officially here the full track listing for the album, with the album credits and also the various producers and talents that he has worked on.

While recording this album which is coming with almost 20 tracks Sauce has stayed busy and collaborated with several major artists such as Eldee, Ikechukwu, Naeto C, Sasha, and more on their projects and also has blessed many an underground emcee with his energy and talent.

Last year was set off by the underground banger with the Knighthouse Family where for all the world to see we caught Sauce in his element, and things only got hotter with the response to the massive Street Anthem Monkey Banana featuring his righthand man Ghetto P and General Pype.

Crack Ya Ribs Live in Abuja

Crack Ya Ribs - Julius D' Genius Agwu, Live in Abuja.
Date: August 1, 2010.
Venue: Congress Hall, Transcorp Hilton, Abuja.
Two shows: 1st show - N3, 000. 2nd Show - N5, 000. VIP - N10, 000
For ticket booking and enquiries - 08033188985
Be there!

Hollywood stars storm Lagos for Ije

Nollywood is about to witness a revolution in film making as multiple awards winning , Ije premieres on July 31, in Lagos.

Produced and directed by Nigerian international filmmaker, Chineze Anyaene, founder of Xandria Productions, the movie stars Nigerian screen goddesses Omotola Jalada-Ekeinde and Genevieve Nnaji. Also in the movie are Nollywood star Clem Ohameze alongside international stars like Odalys Garcia, Jeff Swarthout and Ulrich Que.


The movie will also be premiered in the UK, United States and other European countries between now and next year. Immediately after the Lagos premiere, Ije (The Journey), will make its round in local cinemas across the country.

Since its production, the movie shot on 35mm, has made headway, winning several awards and being nominated or chosen as official selections in many film festivals around the globe. The awards include, Excellence in Filmmaking and Best Editing.

The nominations are for Best Director, Best Cinematography, Best Feature Film and Best Feature Film Screenplay.

The star-studded film has made appearances and received accolades at film festivals such as Swansea Bay International Film Festival with Festival Patron Catherine Zeta-Jones and Festival Vice President Michael Sheen; International Youth Film Festival with Patron Sir Anthony Hopkins and the highly regarded Boston International Film Festival that holds in Boston, MA.

With AMC Theaters (the largest chain of movie theatres in the US) as one of its sponsors, the Boston film feast draws a large following, and it also has many other influential sponsors that include BET, A&E Television, Bravo TV, AMC TV, Microsoft, American Express and JVC among others.

Parading top notch production values, Hollywood collaboration and the use of 35 mm film, Ije is already poised on setting the world on fire while spotlighting Nigerian artistry and talent. The international stars that featured in Ije would be arriving the country any moment from now, ahead of the July 31 premiere of the film.

In a statement by the producer, the stars alongside Omotola and Genevieve will be meeting with the local media on July 30, before the red carpet which comes up the next day.

Ije is a melodic and beautiful score through rich visuals in Los Angeles and flashbacks on location in Jos, Nigeria.

Movie on Dagrin underway

A film based on the life and times of the late rapper, Dagrin is underway. Titled ‘Ghetto Dreams’, the film will chronicle the growing years of Dagrin, his struggles, rise to fame as well as his untimely exit.

Renowned director, Lancelot Imasuen , HVP learnt has been drafted as the director of the film which is being produced by Stingomania Entertainment.
Also a foundation, is said to have been set up in memory of the late rapper, The Dagrin Memorial Project.

Amongst other things, the foundation will ensure that the family Dagrin left behind is catered for and the loss is made more bearable for his family in a tangible measurable manner, in addition to providing a lasting structure and means to encourage upcoming and budding entertainment stars.

Uti Nwachwukwu releases new single

Uti Nwachukwu, Big Brother Africa 3 contestant is now a musician. He recently released his new single titled "Go Down".

General Pype's Champion sets a new record with Supersport on DSTV

Nigerian artist, General Pype, has done something that's never been done before. His massive hit song 'Champion' is now the official theme song of Super Sports - The channel of champions. A deal which is said to be one of the first of its kind done by a locally based Nigerian artist for international release.

General Pype is the emerging Dancehall Champion of the African Urban Scene and this song is now on rotation on BBC 1 extra and has also been on heavy rotation all over Nigeria and Africa. He's elated about this deal as it will promote his brand of music to an even larger audience.

In the meantime General Pype's Debut Album has a tentative release date for October 1, Champion and the remix are available on itunes, yahoo, amazon.com and all major media stores so please get your copy and support quality Music from the heart of Africa; Nigeria.

B.o.u.q.u.i recalls Redefinition album

Like crisis-hit manufacturer, Toyota, that’s recalled over 10million of their cars globally since last September, Nigeria’s international rap gospel act, B.o.u.q.u.i has withdrawn the rest of her sophomore albums in circulation.


The album recalled last month was released only four months ago (March). It is titled Redefinition. And unlike Toyota that recalled its cars for defects bothering on safety, Bouqui’s recall is simply because she’s not pleased with the CD packaging. Redefinition was released while the singer was on tour outside the country and the sleeve was designed by someone simply identified as Flammy. It was also marketed by Iyke The Don.

While Flammy works out a new design, word has it that by the time the reworked units hit the market, it would not be just with a new jacket. The rapper, we hear, is toying with mixing the CD content with some joints from her debut album which she feels weren’t well exposed. At the end of the day, Redefinition just might be re-christened too.

2Shotz heats up the scene

Umu Nnam Records Don and long time coming rapper, 2Shotz Orioha is about to flare the already heated video revolution going on. Next Tuesday, in Lagos, the cast and crew for I am William, his latest single, will hit location for its shoot.

The video will be the second off his expected 5th album with his first titled Oyoyo released last November. While Oyoyo was a 2-man video featuring singer YQ, I am William is tipped to be a star-studded one judging from the line up of celebs penciled to grace the shoot. The video will be directed by popular music video director, DJ Tee while the song was produced by rapper M.I. The 14-track album will be released soon.

MTN Project Fame returns

All is ready for the third season of MTN Project Fame West Africa. The highly popular talent competition which has enchanted millions of West Africans begins on the 12th of July, 2010 and ends in October.

The competition which has had two previously successful seasons is once again poised to take raw talents and mould them into music stars. After general auditions, 15 talented individuals will be taken to the Performance Academy where they would be taught how to write songs and perform from the very top professionals of the music industry.

According to the owners of the Project Fame franchise in West Africa, Ultima Limited, “Project Fame West Africa is not just looking for contestants with good voices. All students selected for the Performance Academy will be able to sing, perform and play musical instruments or write their own songs.”

Testaments to the refining abilities of PFWA are Iyanya Mbuk and Mike Anyasodo who both won the 1st season and second season respectively. Today they are among Nigeria’s most talented and professional singers with Iyanya releasing his critically acclaimed debut album My Story last year and Mike dropping three new singles that have all been met with positive reviews.

Eedris begs NB Plc

Finally the ghost of the controversial 2004 edition of the star studded Nigerian Breweries PLC sponsored Star Mega Jams concerts was put to rest Sunday, at the La Cachette Restaurant venue of the album launch of the musical group, The Pulse.

The musician at the centre of the controversy that trailed the cancelled concert, Eedris Abdulkareem chose the album launch venue to apologise to some management staff of the Iganmu, Lagos based brewing company for his unwarranted outbursts and embarrassing posture that caused millions of Nigerians the opportunity to see the much hyped America superstar rap artiste, 50 Cents perform.

And for the first since the former member of the defunct Remedies group began his petty war against the brewing giants, Eedris who had consistently denied ever reaching agreements with Town Criers, the event company that handled the botched concert over performance fees, agreed publicly that he was paid N3million.

Accompanied by the boss of Kennis Music, Kenny Ogungbe, the very humbled musician who became a cult hero with his hit song Jaga Jaga apologised to a stunned audience while also thanking NP PLC for giving his career a lift when he needed it most.

Although no statement has been made by NB PLC, an excited official of the company however told Showtime that “the move was the right thing to do. I’m sure the management will forgive him. That explains why he was allowed to perform on our platform tonight”.

Our reporter recalled that Eedris had been banished from performing on the platform of any concerts organised by the brewing company.

The action followed his unruly conduct at the 2004 edition of the company’s sponsored Star Mega Jams concert.
Apart from composing a song against the brewing giants, he also went further to lampoon 50 Cents in far away South Africa, accusing the American of calling Nigerians Monkeys, a claim many knew was false.

In addition, he denied ever reaching agreement with the event companies over his performance fee claiming that he had asked to be treated on the same platform with the visiting American.

Now that apologies have been tendered did, I hear someone say let the music play Nigerian Breweries?

Wonder Woman, Omawumi leads the 2010 NEA nomination list!

The Producers of the NEA Awards are pleased to announce the Nominees for the Fifth Annual NEA Awards scheduled for Saturday, September 18th, 2010 at 5:30pm at the BMCC Tribeca Performing Art Center.

This year’s nomination list is considered the most intriguing in the history of the show. The producers of the show also expanded this years’ category list to include non-traditional entertainment segments like Radio and TV personalities, Reality shows and Fashion. The producers of the show recognize the continued popularity and successes of these segments and want to make sure that these groups are recognized as part of the Nigeria Entertainment community.
West Africa Idol runner-up Omawumi leads this year’s pack with five nominations for her debut album Wonder Woman. Four of the nominations were for her debut album and one for her feature on the late Dagrin’s song “Thank God”. Dagrin came in second with four nominations along with Tuface and new comer Kefee. The late Dagrin received nominations for Best Album for “C.E.O”, Hottest Single “Kondo”, Best Rap Act and Best Collaboration with Vocals for “Thank God” with Omawumi.

This year’s Best Album category is the most intriguing category in the music segment of the nomination category. For the first time, the category has different genres of music including Rap, Hip Hop, Soul and Pop/R&B- M2M by Wande Coal, Dagrin’s CEO, Omawumi’s Wonder Woman and Tuface’s Unstoppable are all nominated for the Best Album award.

The Best Actress in a Film/Short Story will be one of the most highly competitive categories this year. The nominees for the category include veteran actresses Nse Etim for her role in Reloaded, Ini Edo for Native Son, Genevieve Nnaji for Silent Scandal, Stephanie Okereke for Nneda and Omotola Jolade for Deepest dreams.
Voting begins on July 9th, 2010 at www.nigeriaentawards.com (see complete list below) and ends August 31st, 2010. Winners will be announced at the Award ceremony.
AWARD CATEGORY:

BEST ALBUM OF THE YEAR
Mushin 2 Mohits – Wande Coal
CEO- Da Grin
Wonder Woman-Omawumi
Unstoppable-Tuface

HOTTEST SINGLE OF THE YEAR
Kondo- Da Grin
Kokoroko – Kefee ft. timaya
Omoba- D Prince
Free Madness- Terry G
Bad- Wande Coal

BEST NEW ACT OF THE YEAR
Jaywon
D’Prince
Jesse Jagz
Lami
Omawumi

GOSPEL ARTIST OF THE YEAR
KSB
Kefee
Bouqui
Lara George
Kore

INDIGENOUS ARTIST OF THE YEAR
ASA
Nneka
9ice
Pasuma
Jesse King

BEST POP/R&B ARTIST OF THE YEAR
Banky W
Wande Coal
Chuddy K
Omawumi
P Square

BEST RAP ACT OF THE YEAR
Jesse Jagz
Modenine
M.I.
Da’Grin
Naeto C

BEST SOUL/NEO SOUL ACT OF THE YEAR
Tuface
Lami
EVA
Nneka
Toba Gold

BEST COLLABORATION WITH VOCALS
Born Champion- Pype ft. Dagrin, Vector, Naeto C, Sasha & GT
Kokoroko – Kefee ft Timaya
E No Easy P Square ft J Martins
Nobody- Tuface ft M.I.
Thank God- DaGrin ft Omawumi

BEST INTERNATIONAL ARTIST
Wale
Keno
JJC
Kas
Moeazy

MUSIC PRODUCER OF THE YEAR
Don Jazzy
So Sick
J. Sleek
Dokta Frabz
Cobhams

BEST INTERNATIONAL PRODUCER OF THE YEAR
Kid Konnect
Dogmites
JJC
Mictunes

BEST MALE MUSIC VIDEO OF THE YEAR (ARTIST & DIRECTOR)
One day- eLDee/eLDee
Fall in love- Dbanj/Sesan
Implication- Tuface/unknown
Lagos Party- Banky/Kemi Adetiba
E no easy- P Square ft. J. Martins/Jude Okoye

BEST FEMALE MUSIC VIDEO OF THE YEAR (ARTIST & DIRECTOR)
You know it- Goldie/Clarence Peters
Today na today- Omawumi/Kemi Adetiba
If u want me- mocheddah/Clarence Peters
Know- Lami/Brandon
Kokoroko – Kefee ft. Timaya/Wudland

BEST ACTOR IN A FILM/SHORT STORY
Ramsey Noauh – Guilty Pleasure
Jim Iyke – The Shepherd / Dream Maker
Femi Adebayo/ Ifederu
Desmond Elliot – Before the light
Kayode Akinbayo/ Bi a ti ko

BEST ACTRESS IN A FILM/SHORT STORY
Nse Etim – Reloaded
Ini Edo – Native son
Genevieve Nnaji- Silent Scandal
Stephanie Okereke-Nnenda
Omotola Jolade – Deepest of dreams

BEST FILM (DIRECTOR)
The Figurine by Kunle Afolayan
Guilty Pleasure – Daniel Adenimokan and Desmond Elliot
Nnenda – Izu Ojukwu
Silent Scandal -T.K. Falope
Behind a Smile -by Frank Rajah Arase

BEST ACTRESS IN TV SERIES/REALITY/GAME SHOW
Genevieve Nnaji/Gulder Ultimate Searchr-Celebrity edition
Bimbo Akintola/Circle of 3
Kate Henshaw Nuttal/Circle of 3
Damilola Adegbite/Tinsel
Funlola Aofiyebi-Raimi/Tinsel

BEST ACTOR IN TV SERIES/REALITY/GAME SHOW
Frank Edohor- who wants to be a millionaire
Kayode Peters- Flat Mates
Gideon Okeke/Tinsel

BEST ON SCREEN PERSONALITY (PEOPLE’S CHOICE AWARD)
Denrele
Ill
Andre blaze
Dorisha brick George
Adaure Achumba

BEST TV SERIES/REALITY SHOW/GAME SHOW
Half Sisters
Circle 3
Tinsel
Star quest
Gulder Ultimate search

INTERNATIONAL EVENT OF THE YEAR (TO A PROMOTER)
Thisday Music Festival
UK Naija Carnival
Arise Fashion Week New York
Ovation Red Carol
Miss Nigeria in America

BEST WORLD DJ
DJ DeeMoney
DJ MightyMike
DJ Vinny
DJ Stramborrella
DJ Ike
DJ Xclusive

BEST RADIO PERSONALITY
Rhythm 93.7- Ik (Wild Child)
99.9 beat fm- Toolz
Top Radio- Tosyn Buknor
Beat FM- Olisa Adibua
Inspiratiom fm- Dan foster

BEST COMEDIAN
Seyi Law
Wale Gate
Jedi
AY
I Go Die

FASHION DESIGNER OF THE YEAR
Deola sagoe
Alvins
Momo couture
Adebayo jones
Ouch!

ENTERTAINMENT PERSONALITY OF THE YEAR
Nduka Obiagbena
Cecil Hammond
Keke and D1
Dele Momodu
Obi Asika

MOST PROMISING ACT TO WATCH
Chuddy K
D’Prince
Eva
Femi Adeyinka
Mo’Cheddah

CONTACTS:
NEA New York Office Tel: (856) 506-5700; (347) 200-2509
NEA Nigeria Office Tel: 234 805 373 4776
e-mail: info@nigeriaentawards.com;
web: www.nigeriaentawards.com

Omotola Jalade Ekeinde set to release second album

Five years after kicking off her music career with the debut album ‘Gba’, Nollywood star, Omotola Jalade-Ekeinde, is now getting ready to release her second album.

The 31 year-old mother-of-four, who is signed on to Now Muzik, is rounding up works on the tentatively titled ‘Feel Alright’ album scheduled for an October release date.

It would be recalled that her debut titled ‘Gba’ album was released on the Sound Factory imprint on October 2, 2005. The new album has as some of its tracks ‘through the barren land’, ‘get busy’ and the already released ‘Feel Alright’, and features the likes of Harrisong, Paul Play, Mode 9, amongst many others.

Naeto C set to release Sophomore album.

Naeto C is getting ready to release his eagerly anticipated sophomore album titled Super C Season. He's currently in the studio putting finishing touches to it.
Watch out for it!

Pastor Odukoya's new wife pregnant

The General Overseer of Fountain of Life Church, Pastor Taiwo Odukoya is inching towards fatherhood again. His newly wedded South African wife, Rosemary Simangele Zulu Odukoya is pregnant. Sources say she's in second trimester and the pastor is said to be ecstatic over being a father again. The two got married January 5th 2010.

Miss Nigeria Pageant returns

The Miss Nigeria Pageant is coming back - after a six-year hiatus. And for the first time in the history of the pageant, it will be activated in three continents; Africa, Europe and North America.

Chief executive officer, and creative director of the pageant, Nike Oshinowo-Soleye, disclosed this at a media parley which held at Federal Palace Hotel, Lagos, some days ago. According to her, that the new ‘Miss Nigeria Pageant' will once again showcase positive attributes of the Nigerian woman, namely - elegance, poise, talent, intelligence and as well as beauty.

The last pageant held in 2004.
Hope it's finally here to stay.

Kelly Hansome apologises to Kennis Music

We still don’t understand what has happened, or what is about to happen – but Kelly Hansome, who has placed several allegations on the doorsteps of Kennis music, is suddenly singing a new tune.

Sources at the label revealed that Kelly is sober and apologetic, and making desperate moves to reconcile with label bosses Keke and D 1

On Tuesday, a post on Kelly’s Facebook status read, ‘with respect to our new understanding, I, Kelly Hansome, sincerely apologise to Kennis music and Primetime and Mr Kenny Ogungbe aka Baba Keke for any comment, write up, publication or interview by me, directly or indirectly, that may have shown disrespect or put a hole on their reputation and respectable status…’

Contacted, Kennis Music CEO, Kenny Ogungbe said he has ‘no comments for now’.

A source at the label however said representatives of both parties have been meeting, and that Kelly is hoping to renew his ties with the label.

Until recently, Kelly was signed to Kennis music, where he released the hugely successful ‘Maga Don Pay’. He walked out of his contract with the label in 2009, claiming he was no longer satisfied with the contract conditions, and that the label was not fulfilling its promise to him.

But time soon showed it wasn’t only Kennis that Kelly had issues with – in just a few months, he has attacked the Mo Hits Camp, MI, Terry G and others. And he has promised that his upcoming album, titled ‘Names of Noisemakers’ will target everyone he has issues with.

Olu Maintain set to wed Wendy Ajakaiye

Yahoozee crooner, Olumide Adegbulu, popularly known as Olu Maintain is set to wed his gorgeous girlfriend, London based Wendy Ajakaiye. The wedding, which will take place in London and Nigeria, is scheduled for the last quarter of the year.

Ashionye puts to bed

Beautiful singer, Ashionye, is now a proud mama. She was delivered of a baby boy 2 days ago 9th June, at a Lagos hospital.

Mother and child are said to be doing great.

Ashionye got married to her record label (Orangutan Records) owner, Carl Raccah last year.

Emeka Ike wins Gulder Ultimate Search

Actor Emeka Ike is the ultimate man as he won the celebrity edition of the Gulder Ultimate search.

The last three celebrities standing were Darey, Daddy Showkey and Emeka Ike.

Emeka Ike received the sum of N7.5M cash prize over the weekend at a ceremony he attended with his wife.

The comedian, Princess who was also a contestant was on hand to crack the ribs of those present.

We learnt that Darey and Emeka were on the same spot digging for the treasure but Darey yielded to the director’s advise to back out after Emeka Ike was getting violent.

Emeka eventually dug to the treasure alone and found it.

Tunde of Styl- Plus Weds

Tunde Akinsanmi, a member of the popular RnB group Styl Plus is officially off the singles market.

Tunde got married to Joke Ige, on May 22nd 2010 at St James Catholic Church, Ijan, Ekiti State.

The couple met in February of 2009. We wish them the best in married life.

HipHop World Awards 2010 winners

ALBUM OF THE YEAR
Best album (solo or group) in year under review, that meets judges’ requirements of excellence (in every realms: songwriting, production, rendition and promotion) and acceptability (sales, popularity)
MUSHIN 2 MO’HITS
Artiste: WANDE COAL
Producer(s): Don Jazzy
Record Label: Mo’Hits Records


ARTISTE OF THE YEAR
Most critically and commercially adjudged artiste in the year under review Overall most successful artiste for the year under review
WANDE COAL
Real Name(s): OJOSHIPE WANDE JNR.
Album Title: Mushin 2 Mo’Hits
Record Label: Mo’Hits Records



SONG OF THE YEAR
Most popular song from an album in year under review. Decided by voting
“YORI YORI”
Artiste: BRACKET
Album: Least Expected
Producer: Dekumzy
Record Label Ape Planet



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
“HEAVEN PLEASE”
Album – TIMI (Unreleased)
Artiste – Timi Dakolo
Producer – Cobhams Asuquo
Record Label – (Unreleased



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
Album/Song Title – “Banana”, “U Bad”
Artiste(s) – Wande Coal



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.
CLARENCE PETERS
Music Video Title – “Finest”
Artiste – Knight House Ft. Sauce Kid & Teeto



BEST R ‘N’ B SINGLE
Best R&B single in year under review (by single individual or group)
“STRONG TING”
Artiste(s) – Banky W
Producer – Cobhams Asuquo



BEST POP SINGLE
Best pop single in year under review (by single individual
U BAD”
Artiste(s) – Wande Coal
Producer – Don Jazzy



BEST R ‘N’ B/ POP ALBUM
Best R&B or pop album in year under review (by single individual or group)
MUSHIN 2 MO’HITS
Artiste- Wande Coal
Producer(s) - Don Jazzy
Record Label- Mo Hits Records


BEST RAP SINGLE
Best single released on-air recording of a rap song
“SAMPLE Remix”
Artiste(s) – Terry Tha Rapman Ft. Stereo Man & Pherowshuz
Producer – Pherowshuz


BEST RAP ALBUM
Best album by a rap artiste or group in year under review
CEO
Artiste – Dagrin
Producer(s) – Sossick, T-Frizzle, Dokta Frabz, Sarz
Record Label - Missofunyin Entertainment



LYRICIST ON THE ROLL
Rap Artiste with best lyrical depth and performance on a single song or album
MODENINE
Song Title – Bad Man
Album Title – Da Vinci Mode (Not released in year under review)
Record Label – Red Eye Music


BEST COLLABO
Best R&B, Pop or hip hop collaborative track (including cameos) in year under review
“KOKOROKO”
Artistes – Kefee Ft. Timaya
Producer – K Solo


BEST VOCAL PERFORMANCE (MALE)
Single male artiste with most outstanding vocal performance on a single song or album
DARE ART ALADE
Song Title - “NO STARS”
Producer- Cobhams


BEST VOCAL PERFORMANCE (FEMALE)
Single female act with most outstanding vocal performance on a single song or album
LARA GEORGE
Song Title - “KEEPER OF MY DREAMS”
Producer – Wole Oni


BEST STREET HOP
The most popular street-hop single in year under review
“FREE MADNESS Pt. 2”
Artiste(s) – Terry G


NEXT RATED
Most promising upcoming officially unreleased act in the year under review
SKUKI
Song Title – “BANGER”

HIPHOP WORLD REVELATION OF THE YEAR
Best New artiste in the year under review
WANDE COAL
Real Name(s): OJOSHIPE WANDE JNR.
Album Title: Mushin 2 Mo’Hits

Record Label: Mo’Hits Record

2face - Unstopable Album Release

2Face Idibia releases his new Album ‘The Unstoppable International Edition‘ Released on (May 21, 2010) in Nigeria. The album will also be available for purchase in some retail stores in certain regions around the world starting this week(so you may want to look up the album in your local retail stores wherever you are).

The retail price in Nigeria is ₦1000 and you get value for your money because it is a quality enhanced CD packaged in a unique jewel case which includes ring tones, bonus videos and wall papers.

Here is 2face’s 2nd official single which is expected hit radio today. Also expect its video which was directed by Clarence Peters to be out soon.
Conscious track that promotes humility, love and unity. Tune!!!

Dbanj is 'Endowed'

Dbanj has released a new single, 'Endowed', off his forthcoming album of the same name. Following the release of the video for 'Fall In Love', the entertainer extraordinaire has upped the ante with this new single. The single has an obvious international sound to it, and comes on the heels of reports of a new distribution deal with an international label.

Don Jazzy shows us his versatility and authority on the beat-box while D’banj advances his story as an Entertainer to now being ‘Endowed‘


Download the song here : http://www.sendspace.com/file/5mdps3

Muma is the Woman in Question

After an impressive outing at this year’s inaugural edition of the Gulder Ultimate Search Celebrity showdown, Afro singer, Muma Gee, has immediately returned to her musical career.

Her new work, Woman in Question, had been completed and launched at the Niteshift Coliseum, Ikeja, Lagos, before her involvement in the Celebrity GUS show.

On Monday, May 3, 2010, after she was officially evicted from the show, she instructed her marketer, Iyke De Don, to start pushing out units of her new album into the market.

Each unit, beautifully packaged in a yellow CD jacket, contains an 18_track audio CD and a five_track Video CD.
Some of the songs are Accra Boy featuring VIP of Ghana, “Girl Power” featuring Frenzy and also produced by him, “Joli” which Terry G produced and also featured in. “Scream” was produced by Cobhams Asuquo and “African Woman” is a collabo with Batman Samini of Ghana.

The album is actively themed to reflect the African Woman and her position in the society and her immediate family. Woman in Question is released under Muma’s label, Mgee Records. The singer plans to embark on an African tour after the new release.

AliBaba, 2face, KSA in Aligations 2010

Grandfather of Nigerian comedy business, Ali Baba, is planning a showdown to mark his 20 years on stage as a comedian.

The CEO of Alibaba Hiccupuray 3rd (Incorporated), Alleluya Atuyota Akporobomeriere who is more popular by his stage name, unveiled to press men at his Lagos residence the ‘luxury event’ tagged Aligations 2010.

The A-class event targeted at captains of industries and high net worth individuals will feature grand house performance by Juju King- Sunny Ade, Dan Maraya Jos and iconic pop R & B all-time favourite, 2Face. He said, “we needed to celebrate it (his twentieth years on stage) big and bring on board the likes of King Sunny Ade and Don Maraya Jos to show that your age doesn’t have to reduce your quality of performance.”

King Sunny Ade expressed his thrill on the project. “I was happy to be called to be a part of it (Aligations 2010). To perform for those who knew me when I was Sunny Ade and then King Sunny Ade, they should come and see us (together with his band) perform from a new angle.” 2face who was absent because of a performance engagement in Ibadan was said to have sent word that he would be paying tribute to fast-rising hip hop act who passed on recently, Da grin.

It is promised to be a fine evening with a good mix of good music, comedy and executive dining.

The 3-course buffet-and-champagne 4-hour event is expected to begin by six in the evening of June 13th at the Civic Centre, Victoria Island, Lagos. Part of the guests expected at the event include veteran comedian, Baba Sala, past presidents, comedy kingpins and serving governors.

The event is tagged ‘Aligations 2010’ because the evening is devoted to demystifying cultural myths that have been passed on from generation to generation. “We’re going to celebrate comedy, the Nigerian entertainment industry, the future and the past; especially the people who kept the scene alive for the younger ones”, AliBaba concluded.

M.I and P-Square nominated for the 2010 BET Hip Hop awards AWARDS

Nigerian superstars, M.I and P-Square were nominated for the 2010 BET Awards. During the press conference which was organised today, M.I and P-Square were nominated under the Best International Act category.

Other acts in the category include-
Kojo Antwi (Ghana)
Chipmunk (UK)
Dizzee Rascal (UK)
Estelle (UK)
Hip Hop Pantsula (HHP) (South Africa)
K'NAAN (Somalia)
Corinne Bailey Rae (UK)
Sade (UK)

Other Nigerian-born acts nominated at the for the awards include soul singer Laura Izibor and rapper Wale. Jay-Z leads the nominations list with a sum of 5 nominations. 2010 BET Awards is scheduled to take place on Sunday, June 27, 2010 at the Shrine Auditorium, L.A

Ajasa relocates to 3rd Avenue

'Move on, we must’, that’s the slogan that drives Yoruba rapper, Lord of Ajasa, at the moment. After suffering a deal gone sour with the marketer of his sophomore album, Tjoe, the rapper has refused to be deterred from releasing commercial music as he last week released 3rd Avenue- his third body of works.

The Yoruba lyricist who stole the hearts of Nigerians with his first famous release, O ti ya, way back has managed to stay put in the music game by dropping single after single and album after album.

His latest release is a 13-tracker which boasts lots of cameos with special appearances by Pasuma, Klever Jay, Dagrin, YQ, Suspect, Isolate, Reminese and producer K-Solo who produced all the tracks except three.

3rd Avenue is marketed by Chilla Entertainment, an Alaba based distributor and the deal this time is royalty-based, the rapper squealed. ‘Nobody’s buying album rights anymore. Now everybody’s going on royalties. We agree on how many copies to print, they sell and I get paid based on sales”, he said.

On the marketing cum payment disagreements the second album attracted with Marketer Tjoe and the legal scuttle between them, the rapper said, ‘it has not been settled.

I still have the contract with him so I can fight him anytime. He even asked to market my new album but I refused. I just have to move on’.

His second album, Second Turning by the Right, released in May 2008, was made popular by his collabo with 9ice on the track titled, Le fenu so.

The song won him two nominations in the Best Rap Album and Best Collabo categories at last year’s Hip Hop World Awards. 3rd Avenue parades tracks like Aye Kan, Igboro, Its Ok, Nigbatawa, Movin On and Virus. The album is now available in stores and streets nationwide.

Globacom dumps Daddy Showkey, Ego?

There were strong indications that foremost indigenous Telecommunication company GLO may have dispensed with the services of Ghetto soldier, Daddy Showkey and Ego as the company’s Ambassadors.

Sources said Ego who was signed on at the peak of her career as Lagbaja’s lead vocalist, especially when she won her way into the hearts of many through the song, Never Far Away.was dropped because after she left Lagbaja to go solo, Glo expected her to come out with her own hit album.

Unfortunately she failed to achieve this up till dates.

Daddy Showkey’s ‘offence’ we gathered was that he requested for an increase in payment, a move which didn’t go down well with the management. To sum up the story, the duo was let off the hooks because, they were no longer in touch with Glo’s customers through their career and therefore dumped.

Kelly Rowland records world cup theme song with Tuface

“In addition to other Word Cup theme songs like K Naan’s Wavin’ Flag, FreshlyGround and Colombian superstar Shakira’s Time for Africa, U2 and the Soweto Gospel Choir’s Pride and Keri Hilson and Akon’s Oh Africa, Kelly Rowland who is presently in South Africa has recorded a song with Tuface and several other African artistes.

“This track titled ‘Everywhere You Go’ isn’t from Kelly Rowland’s new LP but the theme song for the 2010 FIFA World Cup. It was produced by Steve Morales and features a host of African artists including 2Face, Awadi, Chameleone, Crotale, Jozi, Kwesta, Rola, Samini, Slikour and Zuluboy.”

Olaitan 'DaGrin' Olaonipekun has passed away. Official press release..

We regret to announce the passing of our son, friend, partner and brother Mr. Olaitan Oladapo Olaonipekun A.K.A. Dagrin.

He died at 6:00pm on Thursday April 22 – exactly eight days after he was involved in a ghastly accident in front of Alakara Police station, off Agege motor road, Mushin, Lagos.

He survived a serious head injury, as a result of the crash.

He was initially admitted at Tai Solarin Hospital, Baba Olosha Bus stop, Mushin before he was transferred to the Lagos University Teaching Hospital (LUTH) Idi Araba where Doctors made serious efforts to save his life. He was admitted at the Intensive Care Unit and operated upon, and later moved to the private wing of the hospital.

Doctors worked day and night; we fasted and prayed, but all efforts to save his life proved abortive. We lost him on Thursday April 22, 2010 at 6:00PM.

Dagrin, 26, was a recording artiste, songwriter, rapper and performer. He was signed to his own label Missofunyin Entertainment and managed by Edlyne Records.

Burial arrangements will be announced by his family soonest.

While we pray the Almighty God grant him eternal rest, we wish to thank his numerous fans and supporters, as well as the media for their unflinching support at this trying period.

We ask that you please continue to pray for his family, especially his parents and siblings. And please only the details contained in this release –jointly issued by his parents and management - should be considered as fact.

BlackHouse Media
On behalf of the family

Opa repackages a nite of 1000 laughs

As Nigeria prepares to celebrate her 50 years as an independent country, the Chief Executive Officer of the Virgin Leisure Organisation, producers of foremost comedy events, Night of a Thousand Laughs, Mr. Opa William, has unfolded plans by his company to join the nation in the celebration.

Night of a Thousand Laughs was established 15 years ago, and to celebrate the anniversary, Virgin Leisure Organisation is unfolding a three-tier plan called the 15/50 project.

In the words of Mr. Williams, “As a first step toward implementing the project, we are embarking on what we call the Backward Integration plan (BIP).

The BIP plan comes in the form of a Comedy Challenge programme where new talents will be discovered to replace ageing practitioners.

We have been doing the same thing for years and there is need to reinvent and repackage so as to take the industry to greater heights.

This according to Mr. Williams, to further develop the industry and take it to a new level.

We don’t want the comedy industry to suffer the same fate that has befallen football; where the same old players are being recycled every time.

Comedy Challenge will be held in the following cities of the federation: Lagos, Abuja, Ibadan, Benin, Calabar, Owerri and Port Harcourt.

The Comedy Challenge, Mr. Williams revealed, will be hosted by a very young and talented professional dancer, Mr.Effiong Edet Anthony. Mr. Antony, a member of the National Troupe, was trained at the University of Ibadan and the Obafemi Awolowo University.

The grand final holds in Lagos with the winner smiling home with a brand-new car and an automatic ticket to feature in the Night of A thousand Laughs.

While throwing light on his organisation’s plan to discover new talents through the Comedy Challenge, Mr. stressed the need for the industry to expand.

“There are so many of our youth who need the experience and we want to give them the chance to explore their talents.

That’s how we discovered the likes of BasketMouth, Gandoki, TA, Teju Baby Face, AY, Victor Osuagwu, Gbenga Adeyinka and I Go Dye.”

Mr. Williams also explained the other projects that form part of the 15/50 project saying, “activities that will be part of our anniversary programme have been divided into the Regular Night of a Thousand Laughs and the Jubilee edition.”

The Regular Night of a thousand laughs holds in Kaduna, Ibadan, Calabar, Jos and will future all our regular comedians and musicians.

But the Jubilee edition which holds between September 30 and October 1-2 in Abuja and Lagos will have on stage, only the best of comedians and musicians. The three tier package is supported by telecom giants MTN, DAAR Communications and HiTV.