Friday, April 30, 2010
One week after his death in an
auto-crash, Oladapo Olaitan
Olanipekun, popularly known as
Dagrin, will be buried today at
Ebony Private Vault, Atan
Cemetry, Yaba, Lagos.
According a burial arrangement
signed by the late musician’s
family and friends, the
interment will be followed by a
short visitation with the family
at their Meiran, Lagos home. The
artiste was admitted into
Intensive Care of the Lagos
University Teaching Hospital
(LUTH), Idi-Araba, Lagos after
sustaining severe injuries from
the auto accident.
The artiste was said to have
rammed his car into a stationary
truck opposite Alakara Police
Station, Mushin leaving the rear
side of the car in ruins. The
unfortunate incident according
to police sources, occurred in the
early hours of Thursday, April 15
around 2.30am. Although the
musician was said to be
returning from a visit to a
friend’s house, another
conflicting information from
reliable sources revealed
otherwise.
The controversy
Sources close to the musician,
who would not want their
names in print, revealed that the
late musician was in fact,
returning from a club.
Unconfirmed reports by another
source revealed that two bottles
of Hennessy, an expensive spirit
was found in the wreckage of
the car. But the manager to the
late artiste, Tunde, disclosed that
the musician had merely visited
friends and a few relations late
into the night and suffered a
“minor accident.”
Both observers said the latter’s
views were aimed at down-
playing the impact of the
accident on the artiste. Others
also said that the artiste should
have been flown abroad for
further treatment when his
situation became critical. Dagrin
was first rushed to T & S
Hospital in Mushin from where
he was transferred to LUTH.
Legacies
Although his first album
entitled: Still on the Matter went
unnoticed, he only started
getting recognition on
collaboration songs such as Efi
Mile by YQ. This earned him an
enviable place among Yoruba-
speaking hip hop artistes such
as Lord of Ajasa and 9ice. With
the arrival of his second album
entitled: C.E.O meaning Chief
Executive Omoita which
comprises hits such as Pon Pon
Pon, it was clear to all that he
had come to stay.
He has equally succeeded in
removing the borders between
English and Yoruba-speaking
lyrists. A critic noted “his use of
Yoruba to rap and sing Hip-hop
is so alluring that those who
don’t speak the language are at
least seduced by his flow and
rhymes.
Friday, April 30, 2010
Thursday, April 29, 2010
Amy's singing Mitch made in heaven
NOT even being in hospital could stop AMY WINEHOUSE
from singing with her old man.
The star, recovering from bruised ribs after a drunken fall, joined
cabbie MITCH at the Cahill Gallery in London's West End.
They sang classics September In The Rain and Fly Me To The
Moon and Mitch also did five songs from his debut album Rush Of
Love, out in June.
Amy's chest looked bigger than ever - it arrived at the venue
before she did.
from singing with her old man.
The star, recovering from bruised ribs after a drunken fall, joined
cabbie MITCH at the Cahill Gallery in London's West End.
They sang classics September In The Rain and Fly Me To The
Moon and Mitch also did five songs from his debut album Rush Of
Love, out in June.
Amy's chest looked bigger than ever - it arrived at the venue
before she did.
Paris had case on back
Her female pals dared not invade her camera space as she left Boa
restaurant in West Hollywood.
Wearing a leopard-print dress and furry coat, the single heiress
was heading to a nightclub which she was probably paid to visit.
Earlier in the day Paris had been Tweeting about her new clothing
collection.
She even posted a picture of herself and a designer 'at work',
below.
Looks suspiciously set-up to us.
restaurant in West Hollywood.
Wearing a leopard-print dress and furry coat, the single heiress
was heading to a nightclub which she was probably paid to visit.
Earlier in the day Paris had been Tweeting about her new clothing
collection.
She even posted a picture of herself and a designer 'at work',
below.
Looks suspiciously set-up to us.
Lindsay:I create art-not Porn
LINDSAY LOHAN is embroiled in a bitter Twitter row with
a member of the social networking site - who only has
five followers.
Adrian Sanderson antagonised Lindsay with cutting comments he
made about the actress' upcoming shoot with photographer pal
Tyler Shields.
The outspoken user advised: "Try to keep it classy, not more
softcore porn with some guy draped over you."
Lindsay responded in anger - despite Adrian's paltry network.
She wrote: "It's not soft core porn hunny, it's called ART."
The man also questioned Lindsay's motive for posing semi-naked
with a male model, speculating it could be a move by the Mean
Girls star to make ex-girlfriend SAMANTHA RONSON jealous.
He said: "Is this how you'll get back at Sam? A photoshoot with a
guy all over you?
"Try to keep some self respect! No trashy stuff!"
It seems Lindsay's dad isn't the only man intent on influencing her
life...
a member of the social networking site - who only has
five followers.
Adrian Sanderson antagonised Lindsay with cutting comments he
made about the actress' upcoming shoot with photographer pal
Tyler Shields.
The outspoken user advised: "Try to keep it classy, not more
softcore porn with some guy draped over you."
Lindsay responded in anger - despite Adrian's paltry network.
She wrote: "It's not soft core porn hunny, it's called ART."
The man also questioned Lindsay's motive for posing semi-naked
with a male model, speculating it could be a move by the Mean
Girls star to make ex-girlfriend SAMANTHA RONSON jealous.
He said: "Is this how you'll get back at Sam? A photoshoot with a
guy all over you?
"Try to keep some self respect! No trashy stuff!"
It seems Lindsay's dad isn't the only man intent on influencing her
life...
A Dark day for sexy Jennifer
HER new movie may have tanked Stateside, but JENNIFER
LOPEZ is still throwing on her finest clobber to promote it.
The singer/actress nailed the standard attire of a sexy high-
powered executive as she exited the Crillon Hotel in Paris.
J.Lo's French trip is the latest stop on her gruelling promo tour for
comeback film The Back-Up Plan, which fell well short of its US
box office target last weekend.
Not only is the Hollywood beauty hard at work plugging the rom-
com across the globe, she's also busy playing mum to her twin
tots EMME and MAX.
Now there's a star who really deserves a day of massage and
pampering.
LOPEZ is still throwing on her finest clobber to promote it.
The singer/actress nailed the standard attire of a sexy high-
powered executive as she exited the Crillon Hotel in Paris.
J.Lo's French trip is the latest stop on her gruelling promo tour for
comeback film The Back-Up Plan, which fell well short of its US
box office target last weekend.
Not only is the Hollywood beauty hard at work plugging the rom-
com across the globe, she's also busy playing mum to her twin
tots EMME and MAX.
Now there's a star who really deserves a day of massage and
pampering.
Jacko Backo
THE Jacko fan who moonwalked in a Darth Vader costume
on last year's Britain's Got Talent is back - this time as
BATMAN.
Darth Jackson was a hit
grooving to Thriller and
this year judges laughed
when he took to the
stage and announced his
name was "Bat Jackson".
Postal worker Philip
Farrugia, 37, made a tidy
sum dancing as the Star
Wars baddie on the
show's live tour after
appearing on the ITV1
series last year.
But the Brummie
decided to audition again - in a superhero outfit - as a tribute to
Michael Jackson, who died after last year's series.
A show source said last night: "This guy came on stage at
Birmingham and the judges thought they recognised him in spite
of his disguise.
"When he announced who he was the audience just fell about
laughing. But he provided some light relief as it had been a long
slog of a day."
The audition will be screened in the next few weeks.
Meanwhile, details emerged last night of an amazing stunt by
Stevie "The Regurgitator" Starr, - who freaked out judges by
swallowing and heaving up items on last Saturday's BGT show.
TV Biz has learned that in the 1980s he was seen gulping down a
mixed-up Rubik's Cube - then bringing it up SOLVED.
on last year's Britain's Got Talent is back - this time as
BATMAN.
Darth Jackson was a hit
grooving to Thriller and
this year judges laughed
when he took to the
stage and announced his
name was "Bat Jackson".
Postal worker Philip
Farrugia, 37, made a tidy
sum dancing as the Star
Wars baddie on the
show's live tour after
appearing on the ITV1
series last year.
But the Brummie
decided to audition again - in a superhero outfit - as a tribute to
Michael Jackson, who died after last year's series.
A show source said last night: "This guy came on stage at
Birmingham and the judges thought they recognised him in spite
of his disguise.
"When he announced who he was the audience just fell about
laughing. But he provided some light relief as it had been a long
slog of a day."
The audition will be screened in the next few weeks.
Meanwhile, details emerged last night of an amazing stunt by
Stevie "The Regurgitator" Starr, - who freaked out judges by
swallowing and heaving up items on last Saturday's BGT show.
TV Biz has learned that in the 1980s he was seen gulping down a
mixed-up Rubik's Cube - then bringing it up SOLVED.
Uppers and Downey
ACTOR Robert Downey Jnr has admitted making movies
while high on crack cocaine and heroin.
He said: "It used to be that you could throw me out of the back of
a party van on to the set, give me a tuna melt, and I could
function."
The Iron Man 2 star also explained in a magazine interview how he
was arrested in 1996 after a cocaine binge lasting at least two days
then bailed by his dealer's boyfriend in Malibu, California.
Downey, 45 - now clean - said he then went home and took
drugs he retrieved from a dustbin.
while high on crack cocaine and heroin.
He said: "It used to be that you could throw me out of the back of
a party van on to the set, give me a tuna melt, and I could
function."
The Iron Man 2 star also explained in a magazine interview how he
was arrested in 1996 after a cocaine binge lasting at least two days
then bailed by his dealer's boyfriend in Malibu, California.
Downey, 45 - now clean - said he then went home and took
drugs he retrieved from a dustbin.
Uppers and Downey
ACTOR Robert Downey Jnr has admitted making movies
while high on crack cocaine and heroin.
He said: "It used to be that you could throw me out of the back of
a party van on to the set, give me a tuna melt, and I could
function."
The Iron Man 2 star also explained in a magazine interview how he
was arrested in 1996 after a cocaine binge lasting at least two days
then bailed by his dealer's boyfriend in Malibu, California.
Downey, 45 - now clean - said he then went home and took
drugs he retrieved from a dustbin.
while high on crack cocaine and heroin.
He said: "It used to be that you could throw me out of the back of
a party van on to the set, give me a tuna melt, and I could
function."
The Iron Man 2 star also explained in a magazine interview how he
was arrested in 1996 after a cocaine binge lasting at least two days
then bailed by his dealer's boyfriend in Malibu, California.
Downey, 45 - now clean - said he then went home and took
drugs he retrieved from a dustbin.
Wednesday, April 28, 2010
Dr Drew offers Lindsay $1 Million to stay clean
April 28, 2010
Lindsay Lohan must really really
really need her drugs. Dr. Drew
Pinsky has reportedly offered the
troubled starlet $1 million to clean up
her act.
According to TMZ, the famous doctor
approached Lindsay to be on the
upcoming season of Celebrity Rehab,
but she refused.
Sources say Lindsay didn’t even think
twice about the offer because she doesn’t think she has a problem,
and she wants nothing to do with Dr. Drew, who has been
extremely vocal about what a mess she is.
And Lindsay’s not the only one who’s pretending she doesn’t have
substance abuse problems—we hear Heather Locklear brutally
rebuffed the offer as well.
Brooke Mueller’s people also shut down Dr. Drew, so now he’s
going after Charlie Sheen! Jenna Jameson’s people have also been
approached, but—yep, you guessed it—she doesn’t have a
“problem.”
We love it! He’s fearless! He’s the only one in Hollywood who has
the balls to stand up to these people. Keep trying Dr. Drew! Filming
starts on May10th, so he still has time to convince these celebs
they ’re all hot messes who need help!
Lindsay Lohan must really really
really need her drugs. Dr. Drew
Pinsky has reportedly offered the
troubled starlet $1 million to clean up
her act.
According to TMZ, the famous doctor
approached Lindsay to be on the
upcoming season of Celebrity Rehab,
but she refused.
Sources say Lindsay didn’t even think
twice about the offer because she doesn’t think she has a problem,
and she wants nothing to do with Dr. Drew, who has been
extremely vocal about what a mess she is.
And Lindsay’s not the only one who’s pretending she doesn’t have
substance abuse problems—we hear Heather Locklear brutally
rebuffed the offer as well.
Brooke Mueller’s people also shut down Dr. Drew, so now he’s
going after Charlie Sheen! Jenna Jameson’s people have also been
approached, but—yep, you guessed it—she doesn’t have a
“problem.”
We love it! He’s fearless! He’s the only one in Hollywood who has
the balls to stand up to these people. Keep trying Dr. Drew! Filming
starts on May10th, so he still has time to convince these celebs
they ’re all hot messes who need help!
Sandra Bullock secretly adopt son and files for divorce
April 28, 2010
Wow talk about being blindsided!
Sandra Bullock is the mother of a
three-month-old son, whom she
adopted back in January, and kept a
secret until now. And she's already
filed for divorce!
“Yes, I have filed for divorce,” the
actress, 45, tells People magazine.
“ I’m sad and I am scared.”
Speaking of her three-month-old son
Louis Bardo Bullock, Sandra added to People magazine, “It’s like
he’s always been a part of our lives. He’s perfect, I can’t even
describe him in any other way.”
Wow talk about being blindsided!
Sandra Bullock is the mother of a
three-month-old son, whom she
adopted back in January, and kept a
secret until now. And she's already
filed for divorce!
“Yes, I have filed for divorce,” the
actress, 45, tells People magazine.
“ I’m sad and I am scared.”
Speaking of her three-month-old son
Louis Bardo Bullock, Sandra added to People magazine, “It’s like
he’s always been a part of our lives. He’s perfect, I can’t even
describe him in any other way.”
Tuesday, April 27, 2010
Christina A-GaGa-Lera
CHRISTINA AGUILERA just can't escape the comparisons.
Eleven years ago, when she first hit the charts, she went head to
head with BRITNEY SPEARS. Now the mum-of-one is accused of
lifting her inspiration from LADY GAGA.
In this shot from the video to comeback single Not Myself
Tonight, Christina is surrounded - GaGa-style - by writhing blokes
inside a church.
To be fair, GaGa's got a long way to go to match Christina's
decade in the charts.
Eleven years ago, when she first hit the charts, she went head to
head with BRITNEY SPEARS. Now the mum-of-one is accused of
lifting her inspiration from LADY GAGA.
In this shot from the video to comeback single Not Myself
Tonight, Christina is surrounded - GaGa-style - by writhing blokes
inside a church.
To be fair, GaGa's got a long way to go to match Christina's
decade in the charts.
Pamela Anderson:Naked Dancing with the Star
Pamela Anderson must be really eager to show off
her buff Dancing With Stars bod, because she
apparently couldn't wait to strip down recently for a
crowd that included Fergie.
The crazy fun began when the former Baywatch
babe and some friends hit the music video shoot for
"Gettin' Over You," David Guetta's latest single with
Fergie, LMFAO and Chris Willis.
Ms. Anderson had jaws dropping when...
"She undressed as soon as she got there," a
source tells us. "The hysteria continued as she climbed
onto a ladder, wearing only lingerie. She practically
brought production to a halt. Everyone on set stopped
in awe."
We're told that after the video wrapped, the barely-dressed
bombshell and her friends headed over to her photographer BFF
David LaChapelle's studios. About a dozen party-goers,
including fellow DWTS-ers Cheryl Burke and Evan Lysacek and
publicist pal Avo Yermagyan, sipped Fortune vodka while
Anderson gave a surprise dance performance.
"By the end of the night, Pam was dancing around in nothing but
her birthday suit," our spy says. "Everyone was shocked, but
everyone was having fun."
Fingers crossed Pammy invites us to her next night out on the
her buff Dancing With Stars bod, because she
apparently couldn't wait to strip down recently for a
crowd that included Fergie.
The crazy fun began when the former Baywatch
babe and some friends hit the music video shoot for
"Gettin' Over You," David Guetta's latest single with
Fergie, LMFAO and Chris Willis.
Ms. Anderson had jaws dropping when...
"She undressed as soon as she got there," a
source tells us. "The hysteria continued as she climbed
onto a ladder, wearing only lingerie. She practically
brought production to a halt. Everyone on set stopped
in awe."
We're told that after the video wrapped, the barely-dressed
bombshell and her friends headed over to her photographer BFF
David LaChapelle's studios. About a dozen party-goers,
including fellow DWTS-ers Cheryl Burke and Evan Lysacek and
publicist pal Avo Yermagyan, sipped Fortune vodka while
Anderson gave a surprise dance performance.
"By the end of the night, Pam was dancing around in nothing but
her birthday suit," our spy says. "Everyone was shocked, but
everyone was having fun."
Fingers crossed Pammy invites us to her next night out on the
Huf Hefner think Robert Downey Jr.is a playboy
April 27, 2010
Hugh Hefner is a superhero in his
own right, so why not have Robert
Downey Jr. play him in a movie??
Hugh has been in talks to get his own
biopic about his life, and there ’s been a
lot of chatter about RDJ slipping on a
smoking jacket and slipper to play
him.
Hollyscoop caught up with Hef at the
Iron Man 2 premiere, and we asked
him about the rumor. Hugh told us
it’s a “definite possibility.”
As for how he feels about Downey taking on the role of the man
who created Playboy, Hefner says it ’s all about the script. “We need
a good screen play,” he explained.
But Hugh did admit Downey is a good choice. He said, “ I couldn’t
do better than Robert.”
But when it comes to superheroes, Hef still thinks he’s got it in the
bag. We asked him who he would be if he could choose one, and
he told us, “I think I want to be Hugh Hefner.”
Fair enough!
Hugh Hefner is a superhero in his
own right, so why not have Robert
Downey Jr. play him in a movie??
Hugh has been in talks to get his own
biopic about his life, and there ’s been a
lot of chatter about RDJ slipping on a
smoking jacket and slipper to play
him.
Hollyscoop caught up with Hef at the
Iron Man 2 premiere, and we asked
him about the rumor. Hugh told us
it’s a “definite possibility.”
As for how he feels about Downey taking on the role of the man
who created Playboy, Hefner says it ’s all about the script. “We need
a good screen play,” he explained.
But Hugh did admit Downey is a good choice. He said, “ I couldn’t
do better than Robert.”
But when it comes to superheroes, Hef still thinks he’s got it in the
bag. We asked him who he would be if he could choose one, and
he told us, “I think I want to be Hugh Hefner.”
Fair enough!
Matt Damon wife is Pregnant again
April 27, 2010
Congratulations to Matt Damon and
his wife Luciana, who are pregnant
with their third child! They are already
parents to Isabella, 3, and Gia, 21
months. Luciana has a daughter,
Alexia, 11, from a previous marriage.
His rep tells Usmagazine.com ,
"Everyone is excited."
Matt Damon: Marriage is
Ridiculous
We love how normal and almost un-Hollywood Matt and Luciana
are. They ’re so family oriented and so successful at the same time!
It just goes to show that you don’t have to be a total fame whore
to make headlines.
There’s no word right now on when Luciana is due, but we wish
her a safe and healthy pregnancy!
Congratulations to Matt Damon and
his wife Luciana, who are pregnant
with their third child! They are already
parents to Isabella, 3, and Gia, 21
months. Luciana has a daughter,
Alexia, 11, from a previous marriage.
His rep tells Usmagazine.com ,
"Everyone is excited."
Matt Damon: Marriage is
Ridiculous
We love how normal and almost un-Hollywood Matt and Luciana
are. They ’re so family oriented and so successful at the same time!
It just goes to show that you don’t have to be a total fame whore
to make headlines.
There’s no word right now on when Luciana is due, but we wish
her a safe and healthy pregnancy!
Saturday, April 24, 2010
Why i disappeared, Bright Chimezie speaks
For more than a decade he held Nigerians spellbound with Zigima
sound his genre of music. His breath taking performances on
stage also endeared him to the crowd where ever he performed.
A very creative musician Bright Chimezie was able to infuse
comedy into his songs. Songs like Respect Africa, Okro soup and
Oyibo Mentality propelled him to national stardom.
And just when Nigerians were getting used to having him around,
he disappeared from Omole, Lagos home.
Nobody could tell his whereabout. Today we serve you hot,
Bright Chimezie as was uncovered by our Entertainment Editor,
Ogbonna Amadi.
The story is better told Nna Ochie (grandfather) as Bright is better
known by close associates.
Enjoy
It’s nice to see you.
I’m delighted to see you as well.
And Lagos…?
I miss the razzmatazz.
Are you alive?
Not just alive, bubbling with life and efizzi.
Where have you been? Lagosians and Nigerians have been
looking for you.
My brother, I did a tactical and diplomatical withdrawal. You know
I play Zigima music. So, there comes a time you withdraw. I have
been in Zigma sanctuary located in the Eastern part of the country.
Really, it was a very difficult decision.
So, after seven years, I said it’s high time to come back to Lagos
and show myself to the people.
On a more serious note, you left at the peak of your career. What
went wrong?
Nothing went wrong. No.1, you see, apart from playing good
music, I ’m also a family man. So, for over 10 to 13 years, I was
here, raising the family.
At a point, they didn’t know where I come from. I’ll take off from
here, go to the East and mount shows and come back. As an
ambassador of African culture and tradition, at a point in time, I
said look, I needed to take my kids home. Let them know where I
come from, speak my language and know my culture. That ’s
exactly what happened. So, for seven years, they’ve gotten that.
My two sons speak Igbo language fluently.
My wife I met here in Lagos knows home. My other four kids
understand, and the East is very happy with me. So, I felt this
time around, April, I would be back to Lagos to get in touch with
my fans here and tell them that Zigma is still very active.
When B&H and some other big companies left, it affected many of
you who were not professional musicians. The emergence of
studio recording artistes was said to have also forced you to
withdraw.
Now, let me tell you something. I play a unique brand of music
which is Zigima. People that come for my music, come for me
and those don ’t that patronize music, don’t. It has nothing to do
with the economic situation. I have just told you the truth. By
2003, my kids were about to enter secondary school and if I had
allowed them to start here (in Lagos), they would ’ve taken up here
as their first home. And I sell the African culture and tradition all
over the world, as an ambassador. So, I had to leave back to the
East to groom my family. That I have done.
Why didn’t you let them go with their mother?
No, no, no. I couldn’t have done it because I married a very, very
young woman. If I had left my wife to go and do that, you know
I ’m ochie,(elder, professional), she couldn’t have survived it. So, I
needed to go there with her. It’s not about being jealous.
She just couldn’t have done it the way I did. I couldn’t have
allowed my wife to go to the village all alone with four kids, and a
young girl. If I had stayed back, people would have said, ‘Okoro
Junior carry him wife go dump for village.’ That would have been
the gossip. Already, before I left the East, there was a powerful
base I had created. So, by the time I relocated, yes, it was quite
difficult but I was able to juggle it all together.
I love my wife and couldn’t have asked her to go alone, and she’s
the only wife I have. She is very supportive. I named her Oyiridia
because people say she looks very much like Bright Chimezie. So
that ’s exactly what happened.
I’m not trying to say there wasn’t low turn in whatever (the
showbiz) but this is the basic reason. Having completed training
the kids, they speak their language and understand where they
come from, I feel accomplished. So, here I am now.
There’s been a downturn in high life and live patronage when
compared with today’s kind of music. What has been your
experience?
I don’t believe that. Zigima sound which I’ve been courting for the
past 27 years is very unique, and without sounding immodest, I
have a very powerful reputation to maintain here in Nigeria and
Africa in general. Yes, for most of the guys …Originality…. Most of
these Hip Hop chaps don’t play wedding ceremonies. They’re not
even holding the industry.
For instance, when I was in school, we used to dance to the
Wilson Hot Chocolate and stuffs like that but when we became
matured, we played the African stuff. As for me, I have told you
exactly why I left. I needed close to 10 years to sort myself and
my background because to be a cultural ambassador ….
But then, you weren’t even playing shows. Did it also mean that
you shouldn’t play shows in Lagos?
I didn’t want my music dead. Remember, for artistes all over the
world who want to stand the test of time, you throttle. You move
out and come back again forcefully. I stand here to tell you that I
have one of the strongest bands in Africa. I mean 16-man solid
band that can strike anywhere, anytime.
You should know also that I’ve never done any kind of business
apart from music. Actually, the Hip Hop boys have flooded
everywhere but then, the African music market is there. People
still patronise us. For instance, my latest job, by the time I got into
this hotel, they started playing. How they got the job, I don ’t
know. So, those are the things.
How did you survive in the East without playing the big shows in
Lagos?
Do you know I played for the Queen in 2003 when she came to
this country? It was in Abuja and apart from that, I did a lot of
shows in Abuja from my hometown – Zigima sanctuary. Straight
into Abuja and other places. Lagos is like home for me.
I have a lot of fans. I don’t have to scratch in Lagos. It’s a place I
come to forcefully and do shows. Just like I’m back now and I’m
going to do great shows here.
You think youths would still like your music when it’s been long
they heard from you?
I’ve been here for the past 3 days. It’s difficult to walk along the
streets. So, the market is there for me. Hip Hop has done nothing.
In fact, they don ’t scratch me.
What’s the impact of Hip Hop music on High Life, especially live
playing?
I need to stay here maybe for a couple of weeks to really
understand what you ’re talking about. But you know I’m a live
musician and without sounding immodest, I hardly talk to the
press. Zigima is an extension of High Life. So, probably, when I
stay here for a week or more, I might understand exactly what
you ’re talking about.
But all over the East, and Abuja, they appreciate the brand of
music I play. That is nothing but the truth. Maybe, we ’ll test our
powers here too.
So, what was it like living in the East for seven years?
I’ll tell you. I used what I call the Zigima strategy and it really
worked out for me When I moved into the East, my boys were
coming all the way from Lagos to come and back me up. At a
point, I got new boys, trained them, taught them the Zigima
language.
They got it. I debuted way back in the 80s. The name, music and
fans are there. So with this latest technology, phones. People were
still getting in touch with me to come and do one show or the
other. It wasn ’t just about weddings or burials. Influential people
in the society invite me to come and play for them and I go.
In the last 7 years, how has the industry done?
We’ve done good and we’ve also done bad. If you look at what is
giving the boys big dough, it’s lyrically zero. They are rhythm and
the rhythm comes from the computer. I don’t know what they
call the beat and stuffs like that. Apart from that, there’s nothing
for the kids to pick up in the song.
Probably, this is due to the nature of one’s leaving the scene and
not being there for them. All you hear is the rhythm. Probably,
‘ Baby I want to dine with you this night,’ or ‘I want you to kiss
me!’, and stuffs like that. Apart from that, there’s nothing more.
Zigima sound is a natural philosophy.
It’s been close to 30 years now and I’ve tried as much as possible
to enshrine myself in the hearts of men, and not just ordinarily.
There ’s a natural philosophy that flows with the Zigima brand. So,
positively rhythm, negatively, empty lyrics.
What are the implications?
The danger is that people will soon be marooned. There is no
authenticity. If you call me up now, I set up here and I power
sound with all my instrumentalists playing. I ’m not sure these
young boys have this kind of firepower. So, what do you get?
You get the ice-cream kind of music.
Most of the people that patronise them have their jobs but when
you look at it inwardly, there ’s nothing there. So, I don’t know
where we’re heading to. If you go to Ghana, in as much as the
Hip Hop thing has affected them, there’s musical direction .
Even in the US. But in Nigeria here, a chap will just come with his
laptop. He creates a beat and by the time you know it, he ’s there.
At a point, I blame the press, sorry to say. Any garbage that
comes out, you promote. You hate to promote the culture of our
land.
You don’t appreciate what you have. You want to sound like the
oyibos (Whites) and where does it lead us? So, most of us that
have got the rhythm, we hold it tenaciously and we serve people
that want it, even if they are just 200. They ’ve been sustaining us.
But some people feel that they have to wear the African fabric.
How long do you think you can sustain this?
Who are the younger generation? Where are they from? Where
you ’re from, the language you speak, the kind of food you eat, the
people you associate with matter a lot. For me, these are the
issues. You have to project where you come from.
I was in Austria couple of months back. Right from the airport,
they gave my respect because of my dressing. One thing the
oyibo man hates is trying to copy him. It makes you look stupid.
In 2005, I was in Venezuela, all the way from my little village.
They appreciated the music. They looked at me, the dressing,
even the language. I told them ‘look, you better call an interpreter
because some of the songs are in Igbo language. But the rhythm
of the language is fun for them. So, all this Hip Hop thing they ’re
doing here will stay here. When they get out there, they will look
like fools.
And it is we, the authentic Africans that look real to the outside
world. Often times, we don ’t even bother with what happens
here, because most of the guys here are marooned. Their focus is
very dangerous, probably because of the little proceeds that come
from it.
In those days, when Respect Africa came out, I never bothered
about royalties or anything. What I had in mind was to permeate,
stamp my feet on the sands of time, do music. But most of these
guys doing this thing with laptops are thinking of Hummer Jeeps
and stuffs like that. That is not where paradise is located. Paradise
is inwardly.
For instance, I may not be very, very rich but I have an rich inner
life. I ’m very comfortable in my skin, and that’s exactly what
matters. So, our people need what I call Zigimatical re-orientation
for them to know what is happening.
Their content are empty.
In seven years, how many albums have you released?
Zigima music is not a brand … In 7 years, I worked on ‘Because of
English’, packaged it, the video and audio and I’m out to promote
it just like I did Ogbono Soup. ‘In the year 1974, I travelled to
oyibo man country, Ala beke…. I use humour to get the message
across to the people. That’s why they like me. I didn’t stay away
from recording. I did Because of English which I am here in
Lagos now to promote.
You spent 7 years on it…?
Definitely. Seven solid years working on that brand of music. It’s
not Hip Hop. Look, you have about five guys doing the guitars.
You have horns men and you ’ve to arrange this music. It’s not
something you just push into the studio and come out.
It’s music from the theatre world. Have you heard Because of
English before in the entire world? But call any of these Hip Hop
guys and play their music. I will help you to know where they ’re
coming from and exactly who they copied.
These are the things. I released Respect Africa in 1984. It was later
in 1987 that I came out with ‘Life of Yesterday’ and I was forced to
do that because I had wanted to wait for sometime. Rogers said
then with four tracks, it ’s not enough for you to jump on the
road.
You know you’re a live artiste. After that, I had ‘Oyibo Mentality’ in
1989. By 1990, I did the chart buster. Ogbono soup. Then 1995, I
did life na teacher, then Prophet Chukwuma – my experience in
2001. By 2003, I left to be a good family man to my wife and five
children.
I thank God I was able to balance that equation and remaining the
industry, even though I was out of Lagos. So, even if you give
me N50 billion now, I can ’t release everyday because some of my
colleagues did it. I don’t know where they are. I’m sorry. I’m not
just playing music …. It’s a calling.
How’s your relationship with Rogers these 25 years?
Number 1, I’m not materialistic. I believe in an Igbo adage that
says O nweghi Ife ka ndu (nothing is bigger than life). And Rogers
happens to know me in and out. When we started, I told him,
‘ Look, I’m a messenger. I have a brand called Zigima music’.
I want the money but more importantly the documentation of my
message because when I leave here, that is what speaks for me.
So, for the past 20 years, he has been doing that for me. Proper
documentation, good production and I think he respects my
talent. He appreciates my dressing and I don ’t joke with anybody
that appreciates what I have come to this world to do. So, this is
just the secret.
And how do you both tackle piracy?
Piracy is cancerous. In fact, I don’t know where Nigeria is headed
to. Can you imagine that Respect Africa sold millions? Somebody
saw me on Victoria Island and said, ‘Bright Chimezie, by now, I
know you’re flying a helicopter. I said, well, if it’s the spiritual
helicopter, you’re right but if it’s the physical one you’re referring
to, you’re wrong. I have no helicopter. He said, ‘but your album
sold millions’. I said, talk to the pirates.
Rogers tried as much as possible to tackle them but he couldn’t do
much as an individual. I think the cabals are capitalising on the fact
that musicians (especially we, the older ones), pay little or no
attention to the lack of structures.
So, they are feeding fat on us. You know, when playing ‘Respect
Africa’ at a show somewhere in Abuja, a guy came to spray me
on stage. And after the performance, he came to meet me and
said, ‘look Bright Chimezie, I made good money with your first
album’. I asked, ‘how?’ He said ‘na we dey sell am’.
It came short of saying ‘1 pirated your music’. So that’s the thing.
That was a song I sang in 1984. Imagine what would have
happened to me today if not for such thing.
How do you handle women who bother you?
Women have natural liking for me. They don’t bother me,
honestly speaking.
How do you handle women who like you?
I try as much as possible to be very friendly but when it comes to
matters of ‘bring down your zip’ I’m a hard man there, you
know.
Is it that you’re the best of husbands?
No, I can’t be the best of husbands. I can tell you now that I’m
very faithful to my wife. I have beautiful sisters and a mother too.
What was it like going back home?
Though we come from Umuahia town, but if I had dropped there
I wouldn ’t have accomplished my mission because the town is
still like Lagos. I wanted a Zigimatical base and I wanted the kids to
know the exact environment I ’m from.
It was a very difficult task but God saw me through.
Your plans for Lagos.
To promote the ‘Because of English’ album and to link up with my
fans and the corporate bodies that appreciate Zigima music. To let
them know I ’m fully back.
sound his genre of music. His breath taking performances on
stage also endeared him to the crowd where ever he performed.
A very creative musician Bright Chimezie was able to infuse
comedy into his songs. Songs like Respect Africa, Okro soup and
Oyibo Mentality propelled him to national stardom.
And just when Nigerians were getting used to having him around,
he disappeared from Omole, Lagos home.
Nobody could tell his whereabout. Today we serve you hot,
Bright Chimezie as was uncovered by our Entertainment Editor,
Ogbonna Amadi.
The story is better told Nna Ochie (grandfather) as Bright is better
known by close associates.
Enjoy
It’s nice to see you.
I’m delighted to see you as well.
And Lagos…?
I miss the razzmatazz.
Are you alive?
Not just alive, bubbling with life and efizzi.
Where have you been? Lagosians and Nigerians have been
looking for you.
My brother, I did a tactical and diplomatical withdrawal. You know
I play Zigima music. So, there comes a time you withdraw. I have
been in Zigma sanctuary located in the Eastern part of the country.
Really, it was a very difficult decision.
So, after seven years, I said it’s high time to come back to Lagos
and show myself to the people.
On a more serious note, you left at the peak of your career. What
went wrong?
Nothing went wrong. No.1, you see, apart from playing good
music, I ’m also a family man. So, for over 10 to 13 years, I was
here, raising the family.
At a point, they didn’t know where I come from. I’ll take off from
here, go to the East and mount shows and come back. As an
ambassador of African culture and tradition, at a point in time, I
said look, I needed to take my kids home. Let them know where I
come from, speak my language and know my culture. That ’s
exactly what happened. So, for seven years, they’ve gotten that.
My two sons speak Igbo language fluently.
My wife I met here in Lagos knows home. My other four kids
understand, and the East is very happy with me. So, I felt this
time around, April, I would be back to Lagos to get in touch with
my fans here and tell them that Zigma is still very active.
When B&H and some other big companies left, it affected many of
you who were not professional musicians. The emergence of
studio recording artistes was said to have also forced you to
withdraw.
Now, let me tell you something. I play a unique brand of music
which is Zigima. People that come for my music, come for me
and those don ’t that patronize music, don’t. It has nothing to do
with the economic situation. I have just told you the truth. By
2003, my kids were about to enter secondary school and if I had
allowed them to start here (in Lagos), they would ’ve taken up here
as their first home. And I sell the African culture and tradition all
over the world, as an ambassador. So, I had to leave back to the
East to groom my family. That I have done.
Why didn’t you let them go with their mother?
No, no, no. I couldn’t have done it because I married a very, very
young woman. If I had left my wife to go and do that, you know
I ’m ochie,(elder, professional), she couldn’t have survived it. So, I
needed to go there with her. It’s not about being jealous.
She just couldn’t have done it the way I did. I couldn’t have
allowed my wife to go to the village all alone with four kids, and a
young girl. If I had stayed back, people would have said, ‘Okoro
Junior carry him wife go dump for village.’ That would have been
the gossip. Already, before I left the East, there was a powerful
base I had created. So, by the time I relocated, yes, it was quite
difficult but I was able to juggle it all together.
I love my wife and couldn’t have asked her to go alone, and she’s
the only wife I have. She is very supportive. I named her Oyiridia
because people say she looks very much like Bright Chimezie. So
that ’s exactly what happened.
I’m not trying to say there wasn’t low turn in whatever (the
showbiz) but this is the basic reason. Having completed training
the kids, they speak their language and understand where they
come from, I feel accomplished. So, here I am now.
There’s been a downturn in high life and live patronage when
compared with today’s kind of music. What has been your
experience?
I don’t believe that. Zigima sound which I’ve been courting for the
past 27 years is very unique, and without sounding immodest, I
have a very powerful reputation to maintain here in Nigeria and
Africa in general. Yes, for most of the guys …Originality…. Most of
these Hip Hop chaps don’t play wedding ceremonies. They’re not
even holding the industry.
For instance, when I was in school, we used to dance to the
Wilson Hot Chocolate and stuffs like that but when we became
matured, we played the African stuff. As for me, I have told you
exactly why I left. I needed close to 10 years to sort myself and
my background because to be a cultural ambassador ….
But then, you weren’t even playing shows. Did it also mean that
you shouldn’t play shows in Lagos?
I didn’t want my music dead. Remember, for artistes all over the
world who want to stand the test of time, you throttle. You move
out and come back again forcefully. I stand here to tell you that I
have one of the strongest bands in Africa. I mean 16-man solid
band that can strike anywhere, anytime.
You should know also that I’ve never done any kind of business
apart from music. Actually, the Hip Hop boys have flooded
everywhere but then, the African music market is there. People
still patronise us. For instance, my latest job, by the time I got into
this hotel, they started playing. How they got the job, I don ’t
know. So, those are the things.
How did you survive in the East without playing the big shows in
Lagos?
Do you know I played for the Queen in 2003 when she came to
this country? It was in Abuja and apart from that, I did a lot of
shows in Abuja from my hometown – Zigima sanctuary. Straight
into Abuja and other places. Lagos is like home for me.
I have a lot of fans. I don’t have to scratch in Lagos. It’s a place I
come to forcefully and do shows. Just like I’m back now and I’m
going to do great shows here.
You think youths would still like your music when it’s been long
they heard from you?
I’ve been here for the past 3 days. It’s difficult to walk along the
streets. So, the market is there for me. Hip Hop has done nothing.
In fact, they don ’t scratch me.
What’s the impact of Hip Hop music on High Life, especially live
playing?
I need to stay here maybe for a couple of weeks to really
understand what you ’re talking about. But you know I’m a live
musician and without sounding immodest, I hardly talk to the
press. Zigima is an extension of High Life. So, probably, when I
stay here for a week or more, I might understand exactly what
you ’re talking about.
But all over the East, and Abuja, they appreciate the brand of
music I play. That is nothing but the truth. Maybe, we ’ll test our
powers here too.
So, what was it like living in the East for seven years?
I’ll tell you. I used what I call the Zigima strategy and it really
worked out for me When I moved into the East, my boys were
coming all the way from Lagos to come and back me up. At a
point, I got new boys, trained them, taught them the Zigima
language.
They got it. I debuted way back in the 80s. The name, music and
fans are there. So with this latest technology, phones. People were
still getting in touch with me to come and do one show or the
other. It wasn ’t just about weddings or burials. Influential people
in the society invite me to come and play for them and I go.
In the last 7 years, how has the industry done?
We’ve done good and we’ve also done bad. If you look at what is
giving the boys big dough, it’s lyrically zero. They are rhythm and
the rhythm comes from the computer. I don’t know what they
call the beat and stuffs like that. Apart from that, there’s nothing
for the kids to pick up in the song.
Probably, this is due to the nature of one’s leaving the scene and
not being there for them. All you hear is the rhythm. Probably,
‘ Baby I want to dine with you this night,’ or ‘I want you to kiss
me!’, and stuffs like that. Apart from that, there’s nothing more.
Zigima sound is a natural philosophy.
It’s been close to 30 years now and I’ve tried as much as possible
to enshrine myself in the hearts of men, and not just ordinarily.
There ’s a natural philosophy that flows with the Zigima brand. So,
positively rhythm, negatively, empty lyrics.
What are the implications?
The danger is that people will soon be marooned. There is no
authenticity. If you call me up now, I set up here and I power
sound with all my instrumentalists playing. I ’m not sure these
young boys have this kind of firepower. So, what do you get?
You get the ice-cream kind of music.
Most of the people that patronise them have their jobs but when
you look at it inwardly, there ’s nothing there. So, I don’t know
where we’re heading to. If you go to Ghana, in as much as the
Hip Hop thing has affected them, there’s musical direction .
Even in the US. But in Nigeria here, a chap will just come with his
laptop. He creates a beat and by the time you know it, he ’s there.
At a point, I blame the press, sorry to say. Any garbage that
comes out, you promote. You hate to promote the culture of our
land.
You don’t appreciate what you have. You want to sound like the
oyibos (Whites) and where does it lead us? So, most of us that
have got the rhythm, we hold it tenaciously and we serve people
that want it, even if they are just 200. They ’ve been sustaining us.
But some people feel that they have to wear the African fabric.
How long do you think you can sustain this?
Who are the younger generation? Where are they from? Where
you ’re from, the language you speak, the kind of food you eat, the
people you associate with matter a lot. For me, these are the
issues. You have to project where you come from.
I was in Austria couple of months back. Right from the airport,
they gave my respect because of my dressing. One thing the
oyibo man hates is trying to copy him. It makes you look stupid.
In 2005, I was in Venezuela, all the way from my little village.
They appreciated the music. They looked at me, the dressing,
even the language. I told them ‘look, you better call an interpreter
because some of the songs are in Igbo language. But the rhythm
of the language is fun for them. So, all this Hip Hop thing they ’re
doing here will stay here. When they get out there, they will look
like fools.
And it is we, the authentic Africans that look real to the outside
world. Often times, we don ’t even bother with what happens
here, because most of the guys here are marooned. Their focus is
very dangerous, probably because of the little proceeds that come
from it.
In those days, when Respect Africa came out, I never bothered
about royalties or anything. What I had in mind was to permeate,
stamp my feet on the sands of time, do music. But most of these
guys doing this thing with laptops are thinking of Hummer Jeeps
and stuffs like that. That is not where paradise is located. Paradise
is inwardly.
For instance, I may not be very, very rich but I have an rich inner
life. I ’m very comfortable in my skin, and that’s exactly what
matters. So, our people need what I call Zigimatical re-orientation
for them to know what is happening.
Their content are empty.
In seven years, how many albums have you released?
Zigima music is not a brand … In 7 years, I worked on ‘Because of
English’, packaged it, the video and audio and I’m out to promote
it just like I did Ogbono Soup. ‘In the year 1974, I travelled to
oyibo man country, Ala beke…. I use humour to get the message
across to the people. That’s why they like me. I didn’t stay away
from recording. I did Because of English which I am here in
Lagos now to promote.
You spent 7 years on it…?
Definitely. Seven solid years working on that brand of music. It’s
not Hip Hop. Look, you have about five guys doing the guitars.
You have horns men and you ’ve to arrange this music. It’s not
something you just push into the studio and come out.
It’s music from the theatre world. Have you heard Because of
English before in the entire world? But call any of these Hip Hop
guys and play their music. I will help you to know where they ’re
coming from and exactly who they copied.
These are the things. I released Respect Africa in 1984. It was later
in 1987 that I came out with ‘Life of Yesterday’ and I was forced to
do that because I had wanted to wait for sometime. Rogers said
then with four tracks, it ’s not enough for you to jump on the
road.
You know you’re a live artiste. After that, I had ‘Oyibo Mentality’ in
1989. By 1990, I did the chart buster. Ogbono soup. Then 1995, I
did life na teacher, then Prophet Chukwuma – my experience in
2001. By 2003, I left to be a good family man to my wife and five
children.
I thank God I was able to balance that equation and remaining the
industry, even though I was out of Lagos. So, even if you give
me N50 billion now, I can ’t release everyday because some of my
colleagues did it. I don’t know where they are. I’m sorry. I’m not
just playing music …. It’s a calling.
How’s your relationship with Rogers these 25 years?
Number 1, I’m not materialistic. I believe in an Igbo adage that
says O nweghi Ife ka ndu (nothing is bigger than life). And Rogers
happens to know me in and out. When we started, I told him,
‘ Look, I’m a messenger. I have a brand called Zigima music’.
I want the money but more importantly the documentation of my
message because when I leave here, that is what speaks for me.
So, for the past 20 years, he has been doing that for me. Proper
documentation, good production and I think he respects my
talent. He appreciates my dressing and I don ’t joke with anybody
that appreciates what I have come to this world to do. So, this is
just the secret.
And how do you both tackle piracy?
Piracy is cancerous. In fact, I don’t know where Nigeria is headed
to. Can you imagine that Respect Africa sold millions? Somebody
saw me on Victoria Island and said, ‘Bright Chimezie, by now, I
know you’re flying a helicopter. I said, well, if it’s the spiritual
helicopter, you’re right but if it’s the physical one you’re referring
to, you’re wrong. I have no helicopter. He said, ‘but your album
sold millions’. I said, talk to the pirates.
Rogers tried as much as possible to tackle them but he couldn’t do
much as an individual. I think the cabals are capitalising on the fact
that musicians (especially we, the older ones), pay little or no
attention to the lack of structures.
So, they are feeding fat on us. You know, when playing ‘Respect
Africa’ at a show somewhere in Abuja, a guy came to spray me
on stage. And after the performance, he came to meet me and
said, ‘look Bright Chimezie, I made good money with your first
album’. I asked, ‘how?’ He said ‘na we dey sell am’.
It came short of saying ‘1 pirated your music’. So that’s the thing.
That was a song I sang in 1984. Imagine what would have
happened to me today if not for such thing.
How do you handle women who bother you?
Women have natural liking for me. They don’t bother me,
honestly speaking.
How do you handle women who like you?
I try as much as possible to be very friendly but when it comes to
matters of ‘bring down your zip’ I’m a hard man there, you
know.
Is it that you’re the best of husbands?
No, I can’t be the best of husbands. I can tell you now that I’m
very faithful to my wife. I have beautiful sisters and a mother too.
What was it like going back home?
Though we come from Umuahia town, but if I had dropped there
I wouldn ’t have accomplished my mission because the town is
still like Lagos. I wanted a Zigimatical base and I wanted the kids to
know the exact environment I ’m from.
It was a very difficult task but God saw me through.
Your plans for Lagos.
To promote the ‘Because of English’ album and to link up with my
fans and the corporate bodies that appreciate Zigima music. To let
them know I ’m fully back.
Seun Kuti @ The New Africa Shrine
Saturday the New Afika’s shrine comes alive when Seun
Anikulapo Kuti and Fela’s Egypt 80 Band mount the stage to
perform.
The
show,
which
holds
almost
regularly at the same venue has come to further stamp Seun as a
true representative of his late father Fela, kicks off at 10pm.
But next week, Afro beat followers will miss their darling as
arrangements have been made for him to perform with the Egypt
80 Band at D ’ Yard’, a new celebrity hangout recently opened at
Lawanson Bus Stop as part of activities to celebrate May Day on
Saturday.
Seun Kuti, who recently performed at the Lagos Black Heritage
Festival, will thrill the audience with new tracks from his yet to be
released second album.
As usual, Seun assured Afro Beat fans that there will be plenty of
yabis and gbedus for every one.
“ All they need do is come have fun as usual”, Seun told
Showtime during the week.
Anikulapo Kuti and Fela’s Egypt 80 Band mount the stage to
perform.
The
show,
which
holds
almost
regularly at the same venue has come to further stamp Seun as a
true representative of his late father Fela, kicks off at 10pm.
But next week, Afro beat followers will miss their darling as
arrangements have been made for him to perform with the Egypt
80 Band at D ’ Yard’, a new celebrity hangout recently opened at
Lawanson Bus Stop as part of activities to celebrate May Day on
Saturday.
Seun Kuti, who recently performed at the Lagos Black Heritage
Festival, will thrill the audience with new tracks from his yet to be
released second album.
As usual, Seun assured Afro Beat fans that there will be plenty of
yabis and gbedus for every one.
“ All they need do is come have fun as usual”, Seun told
Showtime during the week.
Opa repackages Night 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.
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.
GUS Celebrity Showdown:Bob,The' Chairman' Bow Out
For viewers of the on-going Gulder Ultimate Search (GUS)
Celebrity Showdown, the reality TV show from the stable of the
Nigerian Breweries Plc, is simply nothing short of sheer
entertainment and fun.
Coming on the heels of these is the tremendous increase in
viewership as Nigerians now look forward to Sunday night every
week. Like the very popular Mirror in the Sun soap that ran on
NTA network in the 80s, viewers are now getting addicted to the
GUS Celebrity Showdown on select television channels if the
messages on scroll during the programme are anything to go by.
The latest gist of the GUS Celebrity Showdown is the eviction
of the “Chairman” (being a popular and ex-anchor for the
regular GUS) Bob-Manuel Udokwu. Bob who has always
given the celebrity hunters insight as an experienced hand on
what to do, or what to expect and what not to expect from
each designated assignment, is now the fallen hero.
The last task was for the contestants to drag three bags full of
puzzles into their given baskets, after which they will arrange
them. According to the anchor, Genevieve Nnaji, no winner
would emerge, however a loser was required. Princess, for
the first time, finished first in her task. Bob finished last, hence
his eviction. Bob makes it the number two person to be
evicted from the GUS Celebrity Showdown.
As an ex-anchor of the regular GUS reality show, one would have
expected Bob-manuel Udokwu to go all the way to the finals. His
eviction was a big surprise to fellow contestants who looked up to
him for advice, having been there before, though as an anchor
person.
Chioma, who, by the way, shares a more agreeable bond with
Bob, registered the greatest shock. She couldn ’t just believe it, as
Genevieve asked Bob to go break his calabash and leave the camp
immediately.
Bob took his eviction rather philosophically, preferring not to
bemoan his fate but move on with his life. “I don’t like to look over
my shoulders. I prefer to look ahead and focus on the future” he
said, after smashing his calabash.
Celebrity Showdown, the reality TV show from the stable of the
Nigerian Breweries Plc, is simply nothing short of sheer
entertainment and fun.
Coming on the heels of these is the tremendous increase in
viewership as Nigerians now look forward to Sunday night every
week. Like the very popular Mirror in the Sun soap that ran on
NTA network in the 80s, viewers are now getting addicted to the
GUS Celebrity Showdown on select television channels if the
messages on scroll during the programme are anything to go by.
The latest gist of the GUS Celebrity Showdown is the eviction
of the “Chairman” (being a popular and ex-anchor for the
regular GUS) Bob-Manuel Udokwu. Bob who has always
given the celebrity hunters insight as an experienced hand on
what to do, or what to expect and what not to expect from
each designated assignment, is now the fallen hero.
The last task was for the contestants to drag three bags full of
puzzles into their given baskets, after which they will arrange
them. According to the anchor, Genevieve Nnaji, no winner
would emerge, however a loser was required. Princess, for
the first time, finished first in her task. Bob finished last, hence
his eviction. Bob makes it the number two person to be
evicted from the GUS Celebrity Showdown.
As an ex-anchor of the regular GUS reality show, one would have
expected Bob-manuel Udokwu to go all the way to the finals. His
eviction was a big surprise to fellow contestants who looked up to
him for advice, having been there before, though as an anchor
person.
Chioma, who, by the way, shares a more agreeable bond with
Bob, registered the greatest shock. She couldn ’t just believe it, as
Genevieve asked Bob to go break his calabash and leave the camp
immediately.
Bob took his eviction rather philosophically, preferring not to
bemoan his fate but move on with his life. “I don’t like to look over
my shoulders. I prefer to look ahead and focus on the future” he
said, after smashing his calabash.
D'Banj ,P-Square,Terry G others on parade
The koko master, D’banj, and another popular member of the Mo
Hits crew Wande Coal, Kora Award winning singing twins P-
Square, Bracket, Timaya and Obesere are some of the artistes to
thrill Nigerians in this year ’s edition of Star Trek, the music concert
tour sponsored by Star, Nigeria’s favourite lager brand.
The list also includes rave of the moment, Banky W, Terry G,MI,
Sound Sultan, Djinee, KAS, Black Tribe, KC Presh and Jukebox, the
2010 winners of Star Quest, the music talent show concluded
early April.
The Trek is slated to begin Friday, April 30th to end Saturday May
29th. As usual, Star would be taking these top of the bill stars to 10
cities around the country.
The cities include Ikotun in Lagos, Ilesha in Osun State, Awka in
Anambra State, Kwale in Delta State and Ikom in Cross River
State.Other cities are Okigwe in Imo State, Lafia in Nasarawa State,
Abakaliki in Ebonyi State, Yola in Adamawa State and Kaduna, the
Kaduna state capital.
This was disclosed at a media conference held in Lagos on
Thursday. According to Sampson Oloche, Senior Brand Manager,
Star, as usual, the brand will be spreading the Star brightness and
friendship to different parts of the country.
The brand, he said, has put together the biggest assemblage of
Nigerian musicians on any single concert tour in Nigeria. He
enjoined the brand ’s teeming consumers in the selected towns to
turn out in large numbers to welcome the Stars who are poised to
thrill them as we “Share the Brighter Life” with Star.
Star Trek is a music tour that showcases the best Nigerian music
Stars and is aimed at enlivening the social atmosphere in Nigeria
and to demonstrate STAR ’s core values of fun, brightness,
sociability and celebration.
“Star Trek is designed reward our loyal consumers. Therefore, we
have made entry to the concerts very easy. The consumer can be
part of Star Trek by paying a token fee of N200.00 only.
Consumers are therefore enjoined to turn out en masse for this
musical jamboree ” Oloche said..
STAR and music have remained a perfect fit and StarR promises
to continue to spread brightness around Nigeria by sponsoring
musical events of this nature.
Hits crew Wande Coal, Kora Award winning singing twins P-
Square, Bracket, Timaya and Obesere are some of the artistes to
thrill Nigerians in this year ’s edition of Star Trek, the music concert
tour sponsored by Star, Nigeria’s favourite lager brand.
The list also includes rave of the moment, Banky W, Terry G,MI,
Sound Sultan, Djinee, KAS, Black Tribe, KC Presh and Jukebox, the
2010 winners of Star Quest, the music talent show concluded
early April.
The Trek is slated to begin Friday, April 30th to end Saturday May
29th. As usual, Star would be taking these top of the bill stars to 10
cities around the country.
The cities include Ikotun in Lagos, Ilesha in Osun State, Awka in
Anambra State, Kwale in Delta State and Ikom in Cross River
State.Other cities are Okigwe in Imo State, Lafia in Nasarawa State,
Abakaliki in Ebonyi State, Yola in Adamawa State and Kaduna, the
Kaduna state capital.
This was disclosed at a media conference held in Lagos on
Thursday. According to Sampson Oloche, Senior Brand Manager,
Star, as usual, the brand will be spreading the Star brightness and
friendship to different parts of the country.
The brand, he said, has put together the biggest assemblage of
Nigerian musicians on any single concert tour in Nigeria. He
enjoined the brand ’s teeming consumers in the selected towns to
turn out in large numbers to welcome the Stars who are poised to
thrill them as we “Share the Brighter Life” with Star.
Star Trek is a music tour that showcases the best Nigerian music
Stars and is aimed at enlivening the social atmosphere in Nigeria
and to demonstrate STAR ’s core values of fun, brightness,
sociability and celebration.
“Star Trek is designed reward our loyal consumers. Therefore, we
have made entry to the concerts very easy. The consumer can be
part of Star Trek by paying a token fee of N200.00 only.
Consumers are therefore enjoined to turn out en masse for this
musical jamboree ” Oloche said..
STAR and music have remained a perfect fit and StarR promises
to continue to spread brightness around Nigeria by sponsoring
musical events of this nature.
Genevieve,Majid Michael sparkle in Bursting out
Top actress Genevieve Nnaji and Ghanaian actor, Majid Michale
have come together again to feature as love birds in one of the
latest releases from the popular Royal Arts Academy, this time in
Bursting Out, a movie produced by Emem Isong and jointly
directly by Desmond Elliot and Daniel Adenimokun.
Bursting Out, StarSpot learnt is about a single woman, Zara
Williams, played by Genevieve, on the lookout for love until she
meets a mysterious rider, played by Majid. The movie is still
receiving some finishing touches.
have come together again to feature as love birds in one of the
latest releases from the popular Royal Arts Academy, this time in
Bursting Out, a movie produced by Emem Isong and jointly
directly by Desmond Elliot and Daniel Adenimokun.
Bursting Out, StarSpot learnt is about a single woman, Zara
Williams, played by Genevieve, on the lookout for love until she
meets a mysterious rider, played by Majid. The movie is still
receiving some finishing touches.
Omoni Oboli throws Birthday bash in New York
Nollywood’s star-actors and actresses these days are preferring
to travel outside the shores of this country to throw their
birthday bashes. And one of those who are buying into the trend
is Omoni Oboli.
She’s billed to storm the city of New York, today, Saturday, April
24 through Sunday, April 25, for her birthday celebration.
And of course, it’s one moment most of
her fans and well-wishers based in the
United States are waiting to express their
love for their screen idol.
Oboli, a fast rising act, who recently got
accolades for her lead role in the Kunle
Afolayan ’s award winning movie ‘Figurine’
translated to Araromire in Yoruba
language, last year hosted her fans to a
bash, at her VGC residence.
The party, holding at Opia Lounge, 130E.
57th Street, New York, source said, will witness the launch of
Oboli ’s new clothing line called Omoni Oboli.
DJ Zimo, and stand-up comedian Jedi are, among the entertainers
expected to grace the occasion which will be attended by friends,
and well-wishers of the actress. Happy birthday to you!
Sorry! Madu Chikwendu
Notable film maker, Madu Chikwendu nearly had his
waist broken recently. But thank God, he did not sustain any
serious injury.
Chikwendu unexpectedly fell off from his chair during the
unveiling ceremony of the Association of Core Nollywood
Producers, held recently in Lagos.
He was one of the movers and shakers of the movie industry
invited to the high table to join the likes of Gabriel Okoye alias Igwe
Gabosky, Ejike Asiegbu and Alex Eyengho as members of the
Board of Trustees of the newly formed association.
But unknown to the reputed film maker that the chair that was
meant for him to sit on, was not in good shape. The moment he
made to sit on the plastic chair, it broke into piece, and before
Chikwendu could shout help, he was already on the floor.
Though, Chikwendu was immediately rescued by his colleagues
who rushed in, and lifted him up. He did not sustain any injury,
but he was embarrassed somehow. Next time, there will be need
for him to take precaution whenever he wants to take a sit.
to travel outside the shores of this country to throw their
birthday bashes. And one of those who are buying into the trend
is Omoni Oboli.
She’s billed to storm the city of New York, today, Saturday, April
24 through Sunday, April 25, for her birthday celebration.
And of course, it’s one moment most of
her fans and well-wishers based in the
United States are waiting to express their
love for their screen idol.
Oboli, a fast rising act, who recently got
accolades for her lead role in the Kunle
Afolayan ’s award winning movie ‘Figurine’
translated to Araromire in Yoruba
language, last year hosted her fans to a
bash, at her VGC residence.
The party, holding at Opia Lounge, 130E.
57th Street, New York, source said, will witness the launch of
Oboli ’s new clothing line called Omoni Oboli.
DJ Zimo, and stand-up comedian Jedi are, among the entertainers
expected to grace the occasion which will be attended by friends,
and well-wishers of the actress. Happy birthday to you!
Sorry! Madu Chikwendu
Notable film maker, Madu Chikwendu nearly had his
waist broken recently. But thank God, he did not sustain any
serious injury.
Chikwendu unexpectedly fell off from his chair during the
unveiling ceremony of the Association of Core Nollywood
Producers, held recently in Lagos.
He was one of the movers and shakers of the movie industry
invited to the high table to join the likes of Gabriel Okoye alias Igwe
Gabosky, Ejike Asiegbu and Alex Eyengho as members of the
Board of Trustees of the newly formed association.
But unknown to the reputed film maker that the chair that was
meant for him to sit on, was not in good shape. The moment he
made to sit on the plastic chair, it broke into piece, and before
Chikwendu could shout help, he was already on the floor.
Though, Chikwendu was immediately rescued by his colleagues
who rushed in, and lifted him up. He did not sustain any injury,
but he was embarrassed somehow. Next time, there will be need
for him to take precaution whenever he wants to take a sit.
Royal Root bags 4 nomination @ Monte Carlo Telfest
Royal Roots Communications Network Limited, last week, with My
Mom & I, garnered four nominations when the nominees for the
50th edition of the Monte Carlo International Television Festival
were released.
The nominations were in Best Television Drama, International
Producer, Debbie and Greg Odutayo; Best Actor, Gbenga
Windapo; while the duo of Ufuoma Ejenobor and Aramide
Okegbenro were both nominated for best actress.
The winners in each category will be announced at the Festival’s
prestigious Golden Nymph Award ceremony on
Thursday 10th June 2010. An international jury representing all
creative aspects of television will select the winners and in each
category, four Gold Nymphs will be awarded to the Best
International Producer, Best European Producer, Best Actor and
Best Actress.
Speaking to our correspondent, Greg Odutayo, Executive
Producer of Royal Roots Communications Network Limited, noted
that the recent nominations are a further attestation to the top
class quality of company ’s productions, adding that his outfit will
continue to push out jobs that can compete with like productions
from any part of the world.
“Of course, we give God the glory. It is a further attestation to the
high quality of our productions. International best practice has
always been our watchword. We go to great extent to ensure that
we our works can hold their own against any other production
from any part of the world, ” said Greg Odutayo.
“This goes to show that it was not a flash in the pan when Edge of
Paradise first was nominated during the 47th edition of the same
awards. But then, it is also a challenge to us. It means we can ’t
afford a drop in standard. We must continue to improve,” he
concluded.
The festival has continued to be the foremost and serious creative
event covering all genres of television programming like no other
of its kind worldwide. The award ceremony comes up between
6th and 10th of June, 2010.
Mom & I, garnered four nominations when the nominees for the
50th edition of the Monte Carlo International Television Festival
were released.
The nominations were in Best Television Drama, International
Producer, Debbie and Greg Odutayo; Best Actor, Gbenga
Windapo; while the duo of Ufuoma Ejenobor and Aramide
Okegbenro were both nominated for best actress.
The winners in each category will be announced at the Festival’s
prestigious Golden Nymph Award ceremony on
Thursday 10th June 2010. An international jury representing all
creative aspects of television will select the winners and in each
category, four Gold Nymphs will be awarded to the Best
International Producer, Best European Producer, Best Actor and
Best Actress.
Speaking to our correspondent, Greg Odutayo, Executive
Producer of Royal Roots Communications Network Limited, noted
that the recent nominations are a further attestation to the top
class quality of company ’s productions, adding that his outfit will
continue to push out jobs that can compete with like productions
from any part of the world.
“Of course, we give God the glory. It is a further attestation to the
high quality of our productions. International best practice has
always been our watchword. We go to great extent to ensure that
we our works can hold their own against any other production
from any part of the world, ” said Greg Odutayo.
“This goes to show that it was not a flash in the pan when Edge of
Paradise first was nominated during the 47th edition of the same
awards. But then, it is also a challenge to us. It means we can ’t
afford a drop in standard. We must continue to improve,” he
concluded.
The festival has continued to be the foremost and serious creative
event covering all genres of television programming like no other
of its kind worldwide. The award ceremony comes up between
6th and 10th of June, 2010.
4 yrs after J.T Tom West's death,producer opens up
Until recently, not many people could reckon with the producer of
that film that led to the accident that claimed the life of one of
Nollywood star-actors, J.T. Tom West, some four years ago.
Tom-West was involved in a fatal auto-accident, while he was
returning from a location after a late night film shooting with two
of his colleagues.
The producer of that film that never saw the light of the day was
Mr. Michael Ofuonye, in collaboration with his UK partner, Teddy
Sir Moris. He recently relived memories of the circumstances that
led to the death of that talented actor turned dancer and singer.
Ofuonye, speaking for the first time in
four years said Tom West died as a
result of internal bleeding, contrary to
media reports that he was shot dead,
as they were alleged to be shooting the
movie with live bullets.
Recounting that ugly incident, Ofuonye
said he lost millions of naira as a result
of that tragic incident.
Ofuonye, who is now working with a
private television station, MCL, based
in Aba, Abia State, regretted that even
though he was made to contribute for
the burial rites of Tom -West, the
production that led to the unfortunate
incident did not see the light of the day.
Worse still, rather than recouping the millions of naira he invested
in the production, having hired XX camera from CNN, another
heartless producer, according to him, cashed in on the incident
that disrupted the production to make a fortune out of his
abandoned project by stealing the title of that movie, “Why?” to
produce a similar movie.
“The millions of naira I invested into the production went down
the drain, and, as if that was not enough, someone else shot a
movie with the same title, ‘Why?” The movie sold out, and people
were wondering what happened to my own movie. Tom West
wasn ’t in that movie. I went to the censors board to register a
complain, all to no avail,”said Ofuonye, who was in Lagos,
recently where HVP ran into him.
Frustrated, however, Ofuonye said he joined the movie industry
mainly to inspire a positive change, especially in the area of
improving the picture quality of our movies. As he narrated, “I
discovered that our picture quality then was very poor and
couldn ’t make any international film festival.”
He expressed disappointment in his colleagues, saying they could
not bring him out of his dilemma. However, after that incident
which took a toll on him, Ofuonye has moved on with his
production, shooting two movies, “Angel of Light” and
“Comrade”, in quick succession.
The movies, according to him, were taken to international film
festivals such as the Berlin Film Festival. Unfortunately, as he
lamented, the films, especially ‘Comrade” until now, has not
secured approval from the censors board.
that film that led to the accident that claimed the life of one of
Nollywood star-actors, J.T. Tom West, some four years ago.
Tom-West was involved in a fatal auto-accident, while he was
returning from a location after a late night film shooting with two
of his colleagues.
The producer of that film that never saw the light of the day was
Mr. Michael Ofuonye, in collaboration with his UK partner, Teddy
Sir Moris. He recently relived memories of the circumstances that
led to the death of that talented actor turned dancer and singer.
Ofuonye, speaking for the first time in
four years said Tom West died as a
result of internal bleeding, contrary to
media reports that he was shot dead,
as they were alleged to be shooting the
movie with live bullets.
Recounting that ugly incident, Ofuonye
said he lost millions of naira as a result
of that tragic incident.
Ofuonye, who is now working with a
private television station, MCL, based
in Aba, Abia State, regretted that even
though he was made to contribute for
the burial rites of Tom -West, the
production that led to the unfortunate
incident did not see the light of the day.
Worse still, rather than recouping the millions of naira he invested
in the production, having hired XX camera from CNN, another
heartless producer, according to him, cashed in on the incident
that disrupted the production to make a fortune out of his
abandoned project by stealing the title of that movie, “Why?” to
produce a similar movie.
“The millions of naira I invested into the production went down
the drain, and, as if that was not enough, someone else shot a
movie with the same title, ‘Why?” The movie sold out, and people
were wondering what happened to my own movie. Tom West
wasn ’t in that movie. I went to the censors board to register a
complain, all to no avail,”said Ofuonye, who was in Lagos,
recently where HVP ran into him.
Frustrated, however, Ofuonye said he joined the movie industry
mainly to inspire a positive change, especially in the area of
improving the picture quality of our movies. As he narrated, “I
discovered that our picture quality then was very poor and
couldn ’t make any international film festival.”
He expressed disappointment in his colleagues, saying they could
not bring him out of his dilemma. However, after that incident
which took a toll on him, Ofuonye has moved on with his
production, shooting two movies, “Angel of Light” and
“Comrade”, in quick succession.
The movies, according to him, were taken to international film
festivals such as the Berlin Film Festival. Unfortunately, as he
lamented, the films, especially ‘Comrade” until now, has not
secured approval from the censors board.
Rising Hip-Hop Star,Dagrin is Dead
Friday, April 23, 2010
Popular Nigerian hip-hop star Dagrin , born Olayitan Olanipekun
Oladapo, is dead. The rising act who has been dubbed Nigeria’s
50Cents died from complications arising from injuries he
sustained in a ghastly motor accident last week Wednesday when
he ran into a stationary truck around 3am at Mushin in Lagos.
Sources say he died yesterday at the Lagos University Teaching
Hospital, LUTH.
The singer of Pon Pon Pon hit single, already getting massive
airplay, last known stage appearance was at the Kennis Easter
Music fiesta in Lagos where he had an outstanding performance.
According to an earlier Vanguard report: ” ?After surviving a
terrible accident involving a truck last week Wednesday, which
left him unconscious, rapper Da Grin has been hospitalised and
operated upon at a Lagos hospital. According to on-line
entertainment journal, netng.com, a source close to the rapper
who claimed to have been in the car at the time of the accident
had initially said there was only a brief argument after a truck
driver lost control and damaged the fender of Dagrin’s Nissan
Maxima. However, other inside sources have squealed on the
gravity of the accident and its aftermath on the rapper.
The report said that
Dagrin was in a
very bad shape; in
critical condition
with doctors
working round the
clock to save his
life”, said the source
as at press time, last
Thursday.
He was operated
upon at the Lagos
University Teaching Hospital (last Week Wednesday).
He was said to have been returning home from an assignment,
and he had called home severally to tell them not to lock the gate;
that he was coming home.
The manager and close family sources allegedly confirmed to NET
that the rapper was left unconscious after running into the truck,
and was left hanging between life and death before he was
rescued by policemen on patrol.
The policemen reportedly called his manager after finding his
number on Dagrin’s ‘last dialled’ list. He was initially taken to Tai
Solarin private hospital in Mushin, before his minders moved him
to LUTH.
The rapper is believed to have sustained numerous injuries,
especially in the chest, jaws and head.
His manager confirmed he had an operation same day at LUTH
and has been under intensive care.
The doctors say he’s improving but they have to keep him in ICU
until his condition stabilises.
He hasn’t been able to open his eyes or speak since yesterday(last
week thursday). I believe they’ll move him from ICU to the ward
once he comes round’, his manager was quoted to have said.
However, Dagrin could not make it as reports yesterday
comfirmed that the rapper has passed on.
The youngman will be remembered for his swagger, creative rap
style, grass to grace back street tales, indigenous lyrics laced with
humour on rich dance-able beats.
As at press time over 700 fans have written their condolences
while some, in disbelief, still wish the lyricist a quick recovery on
his Facebook wall . A few excerpts:
Eugene Ronny: “Dagrin where are you? Please come out and tell
the world that you are not dead.”
Bhellow Harrordhale: “RIP Da’grin”
Michael Rooney: ” You will be healed, also I’ll pray for you”
Femi Daniel: “IT’S A LIE”
Emmanule Kingsley Oprah:” Dagrin, as long as the Lord liveth…
you shall live to sing more songs —-of praise..”
Hodun Olagokun: “Orun ree oo Akogun, omo naija… miss u die-
Rest in peace”
Amodu Iyanda: “Why Dagrin?”
DaBishop Dread: “Too early, God!!!”
Opeyemi Oluwatibi, “Olaitan Oladepo….It’s painful”
Aruma Cole:” Rest in peace bro… I will miss you more than my
wife in dis life bro”
Dagrin’s Biography
Dagrin, real name Olayitan Olanipekun Oladapo hailed from
Abeokuta, Ogun State. He attended Good Shepherd Nursery and
Primary School and Egbado College.
He released his first but little known album under Leo
Entertainment about 3years ago before his current album, CEO on
his own label, MOSOFUNYIN Entertainment that has been
generally acknowledged as successful.
Before his death, he had become the most sought out lyricist for
collabos by both old and upcoming artists. There are a few
collabos to his credit – with Dark Poet, So Sick, T Frizzle,
Omawumi, Lala, Bigiano, Owen Gee, YQ, Kenny St. Brown, 9ice,
Teeblaq, General Pype and many others.
Popular Nigerian hip-hop star Dagrin , born Olayitan Olanipekun
Oladapo, is dead. The rising act who has been dubbed Nigeria’s
50Cents died from complications arising from injuries he
sustained in a ghastly motor accident last week Wednesday when
he ran into a stationary truck around 3am at Mushin in Lagos.
Sources say he died yesterday at the Lagos University Teaching
Hospital, LUTH.
The singer of Pon Pon Pon hit single, already getting massive
airplay, last known stage appearance was at the Kennis Easter
Music fiesta in Lagos where he had an outstanding performance.
According to an earlier Vanguard report: ” ?After surviving a
terrible accident involving a truck last week Wednesday, which
left him unconscious, rapper Da Grin has been hospitalised and
operated upon at a Lagos hospital. According to on-line
entertainment journal, netng.com, a source close to the rapper
who claimed to have been in the car at the time of the accident
had initially said there was only a brief argument after a truck
driver lost control and damaged the fender of Dagrin’s Nissan
Maxima. However, other inside sources have squealed on the
gravity of the accident and its aftermath on the rapper.
The report said that
Dagrin was in a
very bad shape; in
critical condition
with doctors
working round the
clock to save his
life”, said the source
as at press time, last
Thursday.
He was operated
upon at the Lagos
University Teaching Hospital (last Week Wednesday).
He was said to have been returning home from an assignment,
and he had called home severally to tell them not to lock the gate;
that he was coming home.
The manager and close family sources allegedly confirmed to NET
that the rapper was left unconscious after running into the truck,
and was left hanging between life and death before he was
rescued by policemen on patrol.
The policemen reportedly called his manager after finding his
number on Dagrin’s ‘last dialled’ list. He was initially taken to Tai
Solarin private hospital in Mushin, before his minders moved him
to LUTH.
The rapper is believed to have sustained numerous injuries,
especially in the chest, jaws and head.
His manager confirmed he had an operation same day at LUTH
and has been under intensive care.
The doctors say he’s improving but they have to keep him in ICU
until his condition stabilises.
He hasn’t been able to open his eyes or speak since yesterday(last
week thursday). I believe they’ll move him from ICU to the ward
once he comes round’, his manager was quoted to have said.
However, Dagrin could not make it as reports yesterday
comfirmed that the rapper has passed on.
The youngman will be remembered for his swagger, creative rap
style, grass to grace back street tales, indigenous lyrics laced with
humour on rich dance-able beats.
As at press time over 700 fans have written their condolences
while some, in disbelief, still wish the lyricist a quick recovery on
his Facebook wall . A few excerpts:
Eugene Ronny: “Dagrin where are you? Please come out and tell
the world that you are not dead.”
Bhellow Harrordhale: “RIP Da’grin”
Michael Rooney: ” You will be healed, also I’ll pray for you”
Femi Daniel: “IT’S A LIE”
Emmanule Kingsley Oprah:” Dagrin, as long as the Lord liveth…
you shall live to sing more songs —-of praise..”
Hodun Olagokun: “Orun ree oo Akogun, omo naija… miss u die-
Rest in peace”
Amodu Iyanda: “Why Dagrin?”
DaBishop Dread: “Too early, God!!!”
Opeyemi Oluwatibi, “Olaitan Oladepo….It’s painful”
Aruma Cole:” Rest in peace bro… I will miss you more than my
wife in dis life bro”
Dagrin’s Biography
Dagrin, real name Olayitan Olanipekun Oladapo hailed from
Abeokuta, Ogun State. He attended Good Shepherd Nursery and
Primary School and Egbado College.
He released his first but little known album under Leo
Entertainment about 3years ago before his current album, CEO on
his own label, MOSOFUNYIN Entertainment that has been
generally acknowledged as successful.
Before his death, he had become the most sought out lyricist for
collabos by both old and upcoming artists. There are a few
collabos to his credit – with Dark Poet, So Sick, T Frizzle,
Omawumi, Lala, Bigiano, Owen Gee, YQ, Kenny St. Brown, 9ice,
Teeblaq, General Pype and many others.
Friday, April 23, 2010
Margaret Murray-Bruce speaks on Family Secret
At 83, an age most mothers walk with sticks or rely on their
children or grand children to move around, matriarch of the
Murray-Bruce clan, Mama Margaret Murray-Bruce, walks around
unaided.
In fact, Mama still has the strength to resume at her 2nd floor
office on TOS Benson Avenue. She does this with relish.In her
words, “it’s God who gives me the strength to do what I do every
day.”
In fact, Mama does more than that. In what has become more of
a ritual, she dutifully waits upon her children, (Monday-Friday) at
lunch time. As long as the children are in Lagos, they converge at
her home to eat from Mama ’s pot.
This is one tradition that has helped cement the bond that holds
together the Bruces. The lunch time date also provides a platform
for Mama to settle any rift or squabble between the siblings. And
once Mama takes a decision, nobody disputes.
Conducted with the kind assistance of one of her daughters, Mrs
Joy Jonah, who often interjected to fill in with some information,
this is the story of the making of the Bruces ’ Empire as told by the
only one who knows the secrets, Mrs Margaret Murray- Bruce .
Enjoy.
How do you get on? Where do you draw your strength?
It’s from God. I’m not a lazy person.
A lazy person can’t raise 12 successful kids. How did you do it?.
I persevered. It was rough but with patience, you overcome. I
didn ’t have so many things back then and I didn’t mind. My main
concern was to have my children fed very well and look healthy.
That ’s all. It was not about me but them and their fathers.
You never picked up any paid job?
Never. I was always at home. So, that whenever they returned
from school, I would be there to welcome them.
You had domestic staff …
Yes. In the beginning, maybe, one or two of them.
But you did not allow anyone to enter your kitchen…
I did the cooking myself.
How did you meet Papa?
Please, don’t drag me into that now.
You don’t want to go down memory lane?
Not all.
What kind of a husband was he?
Very nice, very caring, very considerate, helpful and very
disciplined. He would always say to us, ‘hard work does not kill
anybody’.
Did it cross your mind while you were a house-wife to pick up a
job?
None, I never thought about that because my children were not of
age.
I remember as a child, (Daughter cuts in ….) Mama used to sew.
And from sewing, she was able to help all of us. Mama made
clothes for her daughters to save money instead of paying tailors.
There was a time, Mama and Papa went to England.
Mama did a course where she learnt to sew and cook. So, she
was trained in the UK. We happened to be helping out. Aunty
Philomena and myself used to help her with the buttons. All our
clothes were made by Mama. We never had anything ready-
made in our house. She (Mama) was the seamstress, the designer
in-the-house. We had the prettiest clothes ever made by any
designer.
What was your greatest moment with him (Papa)?
Well, I missed him a lot but there’s nothing I can do about that. I
just pray that one day, we will all be together to part no more.
How did you cope after Papa’s demise?
Well, they (the children) were all grown up. I wasn’t scared. I
knew I had grown up children around me that would look after
me. And I did things myself at the same time.
(Jonas Caught in) Mama ran her home by herself, nobody did that
for her. And we involved her more in a bid to help her look
forward to the next day. We told her that Papa had a job to do for
us, and that she had to continue that job, which is to be there for
us always.
What is Mama’s job in the Domino group?
I go to the supermarket to check on things and supervise the
staff.. I ’ve done that this morning before coming here. I do that
every other morning when I’m not very busy at home.
Are you on salary?
I’m never in want. Let’s put it that way. I’m okay. I don’t need a
salary.
Have you ever fired any of your staff ?
I could suggest that any staff who’s found wanting should be
fired. We don’t have a place for lazy people.
What was it like in the beginning when the kids were small and
you didn ’t have so much to fend for them?
I had a lot of patience. I reprimand them whenever they go
wrong and I let it go. I correct them whenever they do things
that were not right. But I tried to be with them all the time to make
sure they possess good behaviour. That ’s how it’s been till today.
(Daughter Mrs Jonas caught in again…) And for us, the daughters,
Mama used to teach us how to walk like grown-up ladies. She
would ask us to put a book on our head and then walk upright.
She taught us table manners: how to use a knife and a fork and
eat properly. She even taught us how to eat with our mouths
closed.
Mama: When I go to the supermarket or come to the office and I
see a girl chewing gum, I would tell her “spit it out. You’re not
here to chew. When you’re on break , you can chew as much as
you like, not when you’re on duty. Keep your mouth closed”
What do you think of the dress-sense nowadays?
I think I don’t belong to this generation when I see the type of
clothes they wear. I like some kind of dresses , while I don’t
approve of others. The clothes are just odd and, it’s an eyesore to
see men wearing earrings, plaiting their hair and so on. You
wonder whether they are real men, boys or girls. I like people the
way they were before, not today.
What kind of kids did you have, when they were growing up?
Ben was the most troublesome amongst my children. His dad
had a song for him: Ben, Ben, you are troublesome, you are
worrisome, you are tiresome, you are everything (laughter)
How do you feel today with the success they have made so far?
Well, I feel happy knowing that with hard work, they have
succeeded in whatever they ’re doing and I’m happy for all of
them. I still pray for them to have strength and courage to keep
going and help others. Be an inspiration to other children to also
learn to succeed like them.
Why have you kept a relationship with old acquaintances and
those who were Papa ’s friends?
I’m very happy with them. They’re like my family and every
Christmas they give me the biggest Christmas card. I don’t want
to stay anywhere else. I’ll miss them. Anybody who was close to
Papa is close to Mama and we continue to nurture it.
It’s like doing things in his memory because he was a good man.
My greatest friend here is a boy who is deaf and dumb and
another one with just one hand. The MD, Michael Murray Bruce,
employed him. He was a beggar and he (Michael) made sure he
stopped being a beggar. Even with his one arm, he works for the
company.
You take people you don’t know off the streets?
But they’re one of us. They’re my children.
Do you exercise?
What exercise can I do at this age? (laughter). I can lift my feet and
arms up little at a time, though. How much exercise can you do
with arthritis? But I can still cook.
What’s this lunch tradition the family has?
My daughters are at home right now; they’re doing the cooking.
Sometimes, I do it myself. I enjoy cooking for the family.
And then you, preside over a bunch of parents at lunch. Do they
come with the grandchildren?
(Jonas caught-in:) When we’re at home, we become the children.
The grandchildren have their section. We’re still Mama’s children.
Mama: I have one (a grandchild) who has invited herself to lunch
this afternoon. I got her phone call before I got here. So, I just told
my girls to ‘increase (food) by one’.
They need to give a notice before coming over…?
(Mrs Jonah cuts) We have a particular number that comes
everyday to lunch. So, if you have more people who indicate
interest to come, you have to tell Mama so she can make
provision. That way, she doesn ’t cook for too many. But
normally, the table has at least four people with her every lunch
time- Monday to Friday.
How long have you been living in your house?
That house? 1971.
You’ve never left there to spend weekends with any of the
children…?
Oh, I do. I stay with Ben, Michael, Philomena…I only spend the
night and come back the following day.
Less than a week?
The house will suffer. Who will run the house? I have to be here
to make sure things are well.
Do you have dogs?
Yes, we do.
What was the neighbourhood like in those days?
We had less people around us before. Now, we see more cars
and more people because of the e-centre. The street also used to
have a taxi park then. There ’re also cases of armed robbery these
days; people stealing cars. The noise of generators which we
never had in those days. It was more peaceful.
Where did you learn to speak Pidgin so well. Waterside?
I think so (laughter)
What was Guy like?
He has a terrible temper but otherwise, he’s very quiet, very nice
and very caring.
And Mrs Jonas…?
She was very quiet as a child but with the type of workers she’s
got, she has to be strong with them, otherwise the company will
collapse.
There was a time the company went through difficult times and a
lot of outlets were shut down. How did you feel?
I didn ’t feel anything. I knew we’d come out of it.
But a lot of workers were laid off.
A lot of people were laid off, yes. But they were cases of stealing.
They stole the place dry. Some even built houses from their loots
but the funny part of it all, is those who built houses from their ill-
gotten wealth are dead. Papa God dealt with them. Like the
Archbishop said, “don’t do anything to them (cheats). God says,
‘Vengeance is mine’ and God dealt with them”.
What did Papa tell you in the last minutes?
He knew everything was okay. He had got Michael to take over
the reins of the company and he knew everything would be okay.
He didn ’t worry.
What was it like for you at that moment?
Ha! Don’t let’s talk about that. It’s not easy. The first few months
were rough but I got over it with prayers. I was never lonely. I
kept myself busy. No time to think. I kept travelling too. All the
grandchildren were there, taking turns to be with Mama all the
time.
Make a comparison between today’s Nigeria and yesteryear
Nigeria when you raised your children?
I say to myself, ‘I don’t belong to this generation anymore’. The
past was very nice and peaceful. I enjoyed the past, but not now.
No lights, no water, bad roads, eroding family values, mothers
had more time for their children then but today, you ’ll find that
they (mothers) are very busy. And I’ve been attacked by armed
robbers twice in the house.
Funny enough, the second time they came, this was two years
ago in my house here, I wasn ’t afraid. I don’t know how. They
pointed a gun at me in my bedroom at 9 o’clock in the night.
What did you tell them?
When they came to me, they said, ‘where’s the gold? Where’s the
money? Mother of Ben Bruce, where is Ben Bruce?’ I didn’t answer
them. ‘You want the money. You want the gold? Open my
wardrobe. Take what you want. That’s why you’re here’, I told
them.
You didn’t pray for them?
Pray for them? Why should I? But a miracle happened. There was
a car at the entrance of the house that kept horning.
They (the thieves) got worried. They said to me, ‘are you
expecting anybody?’ I said, ‘No’. I should have said, ‘Yes’.
They ran away because the car never stopped horning and it has
never happened before. Apparently, the car was going to the next
house and was horning for them to open their gate. But I was not
scared. I don ’t know why. While they were looting, I was just
praying for all my staff who lay down on the floor. They told me
to lie down, I said, ‘I’m too old to lie down, sorry’.
Were they young boys?
Young boys with military machine gun.
How many were they?
About five of them. They got all my staff including the guards to
lie down in my bedroom. My steward later said to me, ‘Mama, so
you were not afraid?’ You know, when they first came in, my first
thought was, ‘is this day my last day on earth?’Then something
came over me and the fear just went away. They were talking
and I was answering them. They took Papa ’s double barrel gun
with all the cartridges. They even asked me, ‘anymore guns?’ I
said, ‘No. The owner of this gun is dead. You can take it if you
want. Take whatever you want, if it will make you happy’.
Where did the first robbery take place?
We were living in Mushin then. It was about 8 o’clock. It was Ben
who opened the door for them. He was only about 9 to 10 years
old. They got in with their guns. They lined us up and took Papa
to the bedroom asking, ‘where’s your safe?’.
We don’t keep safe in the house. But if you are good, God is with
you. The next door neighbour heard the commotion. Normally,
he goes out every night but that night, he did not go out. He was
sitting at the corridor with the lights put out.
They (the thieves) didn’t know somebody was there. So he sent
his son to call the police. Their driver (the thieves’) outside sensed
trouble. I think they make signs that they only understand. They
were in the house for 15minutes and rushed out.
We didn’t know what was happening. We only saw them rush
out and quickly leave the vicinity. They had just stolen the car they
drove in. They abandoned the car and took the same double-
barrel gun from the room and abandoned it in the car.
The police recovered it and brought it back. But this time, it’s gone
forever. These young boys have taken it.
And that was the end …
I saw one of them (the young thieves) about two weeks later in
the neighbourhood. The thief who pointed a gun at me. He was
wearing the same shirt he wore during the robbery. I know God
is with me because I haven ’t harmed anybody. Why will I be
afraid?
What encouragement do you have for people striving to become
successful.
You have to be prayerful. Get close to God but you have to be
good as well. Have patience. With prayers, you ’ll conquer.
children or grand children to move around, matriarch of the
Murray-Bruce clan, Mama Margaret Murray-Bruce, walks around
unaided.
In fact, Mama still has the strength to resume at her 2nd floor
office on TOS Benson Avenue. She does this with relish.In her
words, “it’s God who gives me the strength to do what I do every
day.”
In fact, Mama does more than that. In what has become more of
a ritual, she dutifully waits upon her children, (Monday-Friday) at
lunch time. As long as the children are in Lagos, they converge at
her home to eat from Mama ’s pot.
This is one tradition that has helped cement the bond that holds
together the Bruces. The lunch time date also provides a platform
for Mama to settle any rift or squabble between the siblings. And
once Mama takes a decision, nobody disputes.
Conducted with the kind assistance of one of her daughters, Mrs
Joy Jonah, who often interjected to fill in with some information,
this is the story of the making of the Bruces ’ Empire as told by the
only one who knows the secrets, Mrs Margaret Murray- Bruce .
Enjoy.
How do you get on? Where do you draw your strength?
It’s from God. I’m not a lazy person.
A lazy person can’t raise 12 successful kids. How did you do it?.
I persevered. It was rough but with patience, you overcome. I
didn ’t have so many things back then and I didn’t mind. My main
concern was to have my children fed very well and look healthy.
That ’s all. It was not about me but them and their fathers.
You never picked up any paid job?
Never. I was always at home. So, that whenever they returned
from school, I would be there to welcome them.
You had domestic staff …
Yes. In the beginning, maybe, one or two of them.
But you did not allow anyone to enter your kitchen…
I did the cooking myself.
How did you meet Papa?
Please, don’t drag me into that now.
You don’t want to go down memory lane?
Not all.
What kind of a husband was he?
Very nice, very caring, very considerate, helpful and very
disciplined. He would always say to us, ‘hard work does not kill
anybody’.
Did it cross your mind while you were a house-wife to pick up a
job?
None, I never thought about that because my children were not of
age.
I remember as a child, (Daughter cuts in ….) Mama used to sew.
And from sewing, she was able to help all of us. Mama made
clothes for her daughters to save money instead of paying tailors.
There was a time, Mama and Papa went to England.
Mama did a course where she learnt to sew and cook. So, she
was trained in the UK. We happened to be helping out. Aunty
Philomena and myself used to help her with the buttons. All our
clothes were made by Mama. We never had anything ready-
made in our house. She (Mama) was the seamstress, the designer
in-the-house. We had the prettiest clothes ever made by any
designer.
What was your greatest moment with him (Papa)?
Well, I missed him a lot but there’s nothing I can do about that. I
just pray that one day, we will all be together to part no more.
How did you cope after Papa’s demise?
Well, they (the children) were all grown up. I wasn’t scared. I
knew I had grown up children around me that would look after
me. And I did things myself at the same time.
(Jonas Caught in) Mama ran her home by herself, nobody did that
for her. And we involved her more in a bid to help her look
forward to the next day. We told her that Papa had a job to do for
us, and that she had to continue that job, which is to be there for
us always.
What is Mama’s job in the Domino group?
I go to the supermarket to check on things and supervise the
staff.. I ’ve done that this morning before coming here. I do that
every other morning when I’m not very busy at home.
Are you on salary?
I’m never in want. Let’s put it that way. I’m okay. I don’t need a
salary.
Have you ever fired any of your staff ?
I could suggest that any staff who’s found wanting should be
fired. We don’t have a place for lazy people.
What was it like in the beginning when the kids were small and
you didn ’t have so much to fend for them?
I had a lot of patience. I reprimand them whenever they go
wrong and I let it go. I correct them whenever they do things
that were not right. But I tried to be with them all the time to make
sure they possess good behaviour. That ’s how it’s been till today.
(Daughter Mrs Jonas caught in again…) And for us, the daughters,
Mama used to teach us how to walk like grown-up ladies. She
would ask us to put a book on our head and then walk upright.
She taught us table manners: how to use a knife and a fork and
eat properly. She even taught us how to eat with our mouths
closed.
Mama: When I go to the supermarket or come to the office and I
see a girl chewing gum, I would tell her “spit it out. You’re not
here to chew. When you’re on break , you can chew as much as
you like, not when you’re on duty. Keep your mouth closed”
What do you think of the dress-sense nowadays?
I think I don’t belong to this generation when I see the type of
clothes they wear. I like some kind of dresses , while I don’t
approve of others. The clothes are just odd and, it’s an eyesore to
see men wearing earrings, plaiting their hair and so on. You
wonder whether they are real men, boys or girls. I like people the
way they were before, not today.
What kind of kids did you have, when they were growing up?
Ben was the most troublesome amongst my children. His dad
had a song for him: Ben, Ben, you are troublesome, you are
worrisome, you are tiresome, you are everything (laughter)
How do you feel today with the success they have made so far?
Well, I feel happy knowing that with hard work, they have
succeeded in whatever they ’re doing and I’m happy for all of
them. I still pray for them to have strength and courage to keep
going and help others. Be an inspiration to other children to also
learn to succeed like them.
Why have you kept a relationship with old acquaintances and
those who were Papa ’s friends?
I’m very happy with them. They’re like my family and every
Christmas they give me the biggest Christmas card. I don’t want
to stay anywhere else. I’ll miss them. Anybody who was close to
Papa is close to Mama and we continue to nurture it.
It’s like doing things in his memory because he was a good man.
My greatest friend here is a boy who is deaf and dumb and
another one with just one hand. The MD, Michael Murray Bruce,
employed him. He was a beggar and he (Michael) made sure he
stopped being a beggar. Even with his one arm, he works for the
company.
You take people you don’t know off the streets?
But they’re one of us. They’re my children.
Do you exercise?
What exercise can I do at this age? (laughter). I can lift my feet and
arms up little at a time, though. How much exercise can you do
with arthritis? But I can still cook.
What’s this lunch tradition the family has?
My daughters are at home right now; they’re doing the cooking.
Sometimes, I do it myself. I enjoy cooking for the family.
And then you, preside over a bunch of parents at lunch. Do they
come with the grandchildren?
(Jonas caught-in:) When we’re at home, we become the children.
The grandchildren have their section. We’re still Mama’s children.
Mama: I have one (a grandchild) who has invited herself to lunch
this afternoon. I got her phone call before I got here. So, I just told
my girls to ‘increase (food) by one’.
They need to give a notice before coming over…?
(Mrs Jonah cuts) We have a particular number that comes
everyday to lunch. So, if you have more people who indicate
interest to come, you have to tell Mama so she can make
provision. That way, she doesn ’t cook for too many. But
normally, the table has at least four people with her every lunch
time- Monday to Friday.
How long have you been living in your house?
That house? 1971.
You’ve never left there to spend weekends with any of the
children…?
Oh, I do. I stay with Ben, Michael, Philomena…I only spend the
night and come back the following day.
Less than a week?
The house will suffer. Who will run the house? I have to be here
to make sure things are well.
Do you have dogs?
Yes, we do.
What was the neighbourhood like in those days?
We had less people around us before. Now, we see more cars
and more people because of the e-centre. The street also used to
have a taxi park then. There ’re also cases of armed robbery these
days; people stealing cars. The noise of generators which we
never had in those days. It was more peaceful.
Where did you learn to speak Pidgin so well. Waterside?
I think so (laughter)
What was Guy like?
He has a terrible temper but otherwise, he’s very quiet, very nice
and very caring.
And Mrs Jonas…?
She was very quiet as a child but with the type of workers she’s
got, she has to be strong with them, otherwise the company will
collapse.
There was a time the company went through difficult times and a
lot of outlets were shut down. How did you feel?
I didn ’t feel anything. I knew we’d come out of it.
But a lot of workers were laid off.
A lot of people were laid off, yes. But they were cases of stealing.
They stole the place dry. Some even built houses from their loots
but the funny part of it all, is those who built houses from their ill-
gotten wealth are dead. Papa God dealt with them. Like the
Archbishop said, “don’t do anything to them (cheats). God says,
‘Vengeance is mine’ and God dealt with them”.
What did Papa tell you in the last minutes?
He knew everything was okay. He had got Michael to take over
the reins of the company and he knew everything would be okay.
He didn ’t worry.
What was it like for you at that moment?
Ha! Don’t let’s talk about that. It’s not easy. The first few months
were rough but I got over it with prayers. I was never lonely. I
kept myself busy. No time to think. I kept travelling too. All the
grandchildren were there, taking turns to be with Mama all the
time.
Make a comparison between today’s Nigeria and yesteryear
Nigeria when you raised your children?
I say to myself, ‘I don’t belong to this generation anymore’. The
past was very nice and peaceful. I enjoyed the past, but not now.
No lights, no water, bad roads, eroding family values, mothers
had more time for their children then but today, you ’ll find that
they (mothers) are very busy. And I’ve been attacked by armed
robbers twice in the house.
Funny enough, the second time they came, this was two years
ago in my house here, I wasn ’t afraid. I don’t know how. They
pointed a gun at me in my bedroom at 9 o’clock in the night.
What did you tell them?
When they came to me, they said, ‘where’s the gold? Where’s the
money? Mother of Ben Bruce, where is Ben Bruce?’ I didn’t answer
them. ‘You want the money. You want the gold? Open my
wardrobe. Take what you want. That’s why you’re here’, I told
them.
You didn’t pray for them?
Pray for them? Why should I? But a miracle happened. There was
a car at the entrance of the house that kept horning.
They (the thieves) got worried. They said to me, ‘are you
expecting anybody?’ I said, ‘No’. I should have said, ‘Yes’.
They ran away because the car never stopped horning and it has
never happened before. Apparently, the car was going to the next
house and was horning for them to open their gate. But I was not
scared. I don ’t know why. While they were looting, I was just
praying for all my staff who lay down on the floor. They told me
to lie down, I said, ‘I’m too old to lie down, sorry’.
Were they young boys?
Young boys with military machine gun.
How many were they?
About five of them. They got all my staff including the guards to
lie down in my bedroom. My steward later said to me, ‘Mama, so
you were not afraid?’ You know, when they first came in, my first
thought was, ‘is this day my last day on earth?’Then something
came over me and the fear just went away. They were talking
and I was answering them. They took Papa ’s double barrel gun
with all the cartridges. They even asked me, ‘anymore guns?’ I
said, ‘No. The owner of this gun is dead. You can take it if you
want. Take whatever you want, if it will make you happy’.
Where did the first robbery take place?
We were living in Mushin then. It was about 8 o’clock. It was Ben
who opened the door for them. He was only about 9 to 10 years
old. They got in with their guns. They lined us up and took Papa
to the bedroom asking, ‘where’s your safe?’.
We don’t keep safe in the house. But if you are good, God is with
you. The next door neighbour heard the commotion. Normally,
he goes out every night but that night, he did not go out. He was
sitting at the corridor with the lights put out.
They (the thieves) didn’t know somebody was there. So he sent
his son to call the police. Their driver (the thieves’) outside sensed
trouble. I think they make signs that they only understand. They
were in the house for 15minutes and rushed out.
We didn’t know what was happening. We only saw them rush
out and quickly leave the vicinity. They had just stolen the car they
drove in. They abandoned the car and took the same double-
barrel gun from the room and abandoned it in the car.
The police recovered it and brought it back. But this time, it’s gone
forever. These young boys have taken it.
And that was the end …
I saw one of them (the young thieves) about two weeks later in
the neighbourhood. The thief who pointed a gun at me. He was
wearing the same shirt he wore during the robbery. I know God
is with me because I haven ’t harmed anybody. Why will I be
afraid?
What encouragement do you have for people striving to become
successful.
You have to be prayerful. Get close to God but you have to be
good as well. Have patience. With prayers, you ’ll conquer.
How Afolayan Scoops AMAA prizes
Nigeria, last Saturday night, in the oil rich Bayelsa State, reclaimed
her lost glory as the “Lion Heart of Film Making in Africa” when the
country carted away 13 out of the 24 main prizes at this year’s
Africa Movie Academy Awards.
Nigeria’s victory was led by actor-cum-director, Kunle Afolayan.
He, alone, won five trophies, including Heart of Africa Award for
Best Film from Nigeria, Best Picture, Achievement in
Cinematography, Achievement in Visual Effect, and Best
Performance by an Actor in a Leading Role, which was won by
Ramsey Nouah to put the nation in the lead.
Unfortunately, Afolayan, whose “The
Figurine”film received nine
nominations, did not win the coveted
Best Director award, as he lost the
same to his Ghanaian counterpart,
Shirley Frimong-Manso.
Besides Afolayan’s victory, other big
winners from Nigeria were Femi
Odugbemi whose “Bariga Boys”film
won Best Documentary award, “The
Child” directed by Izu Chukwu won
two awards: AMAA Achievement in
Editing and AMA Achievement in Make-
Up. ”
Others were “The Tenant” which won
the Best Screen play, “Soul Diaspora” by Odera Ozoka won the
Best Film by African film maker in Diaspora and AMAA
Achievement in Art Direction which was won by “Fulani.” Nigeria’s
Chelsea Eze of “Silent Scandal” and Rahema Nanfuka of Ugandan
“Imani” jointly won the Most Promising Actress of the Year.
Judging from the outcome of this year’s AMAA, it was obvious
that Nigerian film makers, following the defeat they suffered in the
hands of Kenya, South Africa, and Ugandan counterparts during
last year ’s edition, was out this year to stamp its authority on the
African film making landscape.
Afoloyan, in one of his acceptance speeches, confirmed this claim
when he said, “Nigeria is set to harvest even more awards in
future. We have many stories in the pipeline.”
Ahead of the award night, the feeling was that the battle would be
between Nollywood and Ghallywood of Ghana, which many
perceived to be an emerging force in African film making sector.
But Ghana was far away from Nigeria, carting away only seven
awards in less fancied categories, except in Best Performance won
by an actress in a leading role. It was jointly won by pretty, Jackie
Appiah, Lydia Forson and Naa Ashorkor Mensah_Doku for their
roles in Shirley Frimpong Manso ’s ‘Perfect Picture’.
The three competed with Nigeria’s Stephanie Okereke (Nnenda),
Akofa Edjeani Asiedu (I sing of a well), Flora Suya (Season of a life)
and Bimbo Akintola (Freedom in Chains).
Also, this year ushered Malawi on screen with lots of fanfare.
Though, the country managed to win just one out of eight
nominations, it was not lost on pundits that this Southern African
nation has arrived to claim her share in the African film industry.
Malawian director Charles Shemu Joyah’s “Season of a Life” was a
strong contender for the Best Screenplay, Best Original
Soundtrack, Best Performance by an Actress in a Supporting Role,
Best Performance by an Actress in a Leading Role and Best
Director.
Sylvia Tapiwa Gwaza won the Performance Award by an Actress
in a Supporting Role, wrestling it from strong Ghanaian and
Nigerian competitors Doris Sakitey (A Sting in a Tale), Funlola
Aoifeyebi_Raini (The Figurine) and Yvonne Nelson (Heart of Men).
Unlike last year, when Kenya won the major awards, leaving
Nigeria with less important ones, the country lost the grip this
year, winning only one award, (Most Promising Actor) while
sharing, ‘Best Performance by A Child Actor” with Nigeria’s Tobe
Oboli of ‘The Figurine.”
However, South Africa, which had only one nomination, went
home with one award- Best Short Film, whereas Uganda shared
Most Promising Actress award with Nigeria ’s Chelsea Eze of Silent
Scandal.
All the same, this year’s entries, despite the odds, according to the
8-man panel of judges, was an improvement on the previous
entries received in the last six editions of the continental film
festival.
The African Movie Academy Awards (AMAA) is held annually to
honour distinguished actors and actresses, directors and writers
in the African movie industry. This year ’s event, held amidst blitz
and glamour, in Yenogoa, pulled hordes of celebrities in and
around the African continent. AMAA is comparable to America’s
Academy Awards in terms of its class, glamour and importance
in African film making.
Full list of AMAA 2010 Winners
* Best Documentary Film- Bariga Boys, Nigeria
* Best Short Film- The Abbys Boys, South Africa
* Best Animation- Honyan ’s Shoe, Egypt
* Best Film by an African in the Diaspora: Soul Diaspora, USA/
Nigeria
* Best Film in an African Language: Imani, Uganda
* Heart of Africa Award for Best Film from Nigeria: Araromire/
The Figurine
* AMAA Achievement in Sound: I sing of a well, Ghana
* AMAA Achievement in Editing: The Child, Nigeria
* AMAA Achievement in Art Direction: Fulani, Nigeria
* AMAA Achievement in Make Up: The Child, Nigeria
* AMAA Achievement in Costume:
I sing of a Well, Ghana
* AMAA Achievement in Visual Effect: Araromire/The Figurine,
Nigeria
* Best Original Soundtrack: A sting in a Tale, Ghana
* Best Performance by a Child Actor: Teddy Onyango and Bill
Oloo —Togetherness Supreme, Kenya
* Most Promising Actress: Chelsea Eze—Silent Scandal,Nigeria/
Rahema Nanfuka—Imani, Uganda
* Most Promising Actor: Wilson Maina—Togetherness Supreme,
Kenya
* Best Performance by an Actor in a Supporting Role: Adjatey
Anang —The Perfect Picture, Ghana
* Best Performance by an Actress in a Supporting Role: Tapiwa
Gwaza —Seasons of a Life, Malawi
* Best Performance by an Actress in a Leading Role: Jackie
Appiah, Lydia Farson, Naa Ashoku Mensa_Doku —The Perfect
Picture, Ghana
* Best Performance by an Actor in a Leading Role: Ramsey
Nouah —The Figurine, Nigeria
* Best Screenplay: The Tenant, Nigeria
* AMAA Achievement in Cinematography: Araromire/The
Figurine, Nigeria
* Best Picture: Araromire/The Figurine, Nigeria
* Best Director: Kunle Afolayan —Araromire/The Figurine,
Nigeria.
her lost glory as the “Lion Heart of Film Making in Africa” when the
country carted away 13 out of the 24 main prizes at this year’s
Africa Movie Academy Awards.
Nigeria’s victory was led by actor-cum-director, Kunle Afolayan.
He, alone, won five trophies, including Heart of Africa Award for
Best Film from Nigeria, Best Picture, Achievement in
Cinematography, Achievement in Visual Effect, and Best
Performance by an Actor in a Leading Role, which was won by
Ramsey Nouah to put the nation in the lead.
Unfortunately, Afolayan, whose “The
Figurine”film received nine
nominations, did not win the coveted
Best Director award, as he lost the
same to his Ghanaian counterpart,
Shirley Frimong-Manso.
Besides Afolayan’s victory, other big
winners from Nigeria were Femi
Odugbemi whose “Bariga Boys”film
won Best Documentary award, “The
Child” directed by Izu Chukwu won
two awards: AMAA Achievement in
Editing and AMA Achievement in Make-
Up. ”
Others were “The Tenant” which won
the Best Screen play, “Soul Diaspora” by Odera Ozoka won the
Best Film by African film maker in Diaspora and AMAA
Achievement in Art Direction which was won by “Fulani.” Nigeria’s
Chelsea Eze of “Silent Scandal” and Rahema Nanfuka of Ugandan
“Imani” jointly won the Most Promising Actress of the Year.
Judging from the outcome of this year’s AMAA, it was obvious
that Nigerian film makers, following the defeat they suffered in the
hands of Kenya, South Africa, and Ugandan counterparts during
last year ’s edition, was out this year to stamp its authority on the
African film making landscape.
Afoloyan, in one of his acceptance speeches, confirmed this claim
when he said, “Nigeria is set to harvest even more awards in
future. We have many stories in the pipeline.”
Ahead of the award night, the feeling was that the battle would be
between Nollywood and Ghallywood of Ghana, which many
perceived to be an emerging force in African film making sector.
But Ghana was far away from Nigeria, carting away only seven
awards in less fancied categories, except in Best Performance won
by an actress in a leading role. It was jointly won by pretty, Jackie
Appiah, Lydia Forson and Naa Ashorkor Mensah_Doku for their
roles in Shirley Frimpong Manso ’s ‘Perfect Picture’.
The three competed with Nigeria’s Stephanie Okereke (Nnenda),
Akofa Edjeani Asiedu (I sing of a well), Flora Suya (Season of a life)
and Bimbo Akintola (Freedom in Chains).
Also, this year ushered Malawi on screen with lots of fanfare.
Though, the country managed to win just one out of eight
nominations, it was not lost on pundits that this Southern African
nation has arrived to claim her share in the African film industry.
Malawian director Charles Shemu Joyah’s “Season of a Life” was a
strong contender for the Best Screenplay, Best Original
Soundtrack, Best Performance by an Actress in a Supporting Role,
Best Performance by an Actress in a Leading Role and Best
Director.
Sylvia Tapiwa Gwaza won the Performance Award by an Actress
in a Supporting Role, wrestling it from strong Ghanaian and
Nigerian competitors Doris Sakitey (A Sting in a Tale), Funlola
Aoifeyebi_Raini (The Figurine) and Yvonne Nelson (Heart of Men).
Unlike last year, when Kenya won the major awards, leaving
Nigeria with less important ones, the country lost the grip this
year, winning only one award, (Most Promising Actor) while
sharing, ‘Best Performance by A Child Actor” with Nigeria’s Tobe
Oboli of ‘The Figurine.”
However, South Africa, which had only one nomination, went
home with one award- Best Short Film, whereas Uganda shared
Most Promising Actress award with Nigeria ’s Chelsea Eze of Silent
Scandal.
All the same, this year’s entries, despite the odds, according to the
8-man panel of judges, was an improvement on the previous
entries received in the last six editions of the continental film
festival.
The African Movie Academy Awards (AMAA) is held annually to
honour distinguished actors and actresses, directors and writers
in the African movie industry. This year ’s event, held amidst blitz
and glamour, in Yenogoa, pulled hordes of celebrities in and
around the African continent. AMAA is comparable to America’s
Academy Awards in terms of its class, glamour and importance
in African film making.
Full list of AMAA 2010 Winners
* Best Documentary Film- Bariga Boys, Nigeria
* Best Short Film- The Abbys Boys, South Africa
* Best Animation- Honyan ’s Shoe, Egypt
* Best Film by an African in the Diaspora: Soul Diaspora, USA/
Nigeria
* Best Film in an African Language: Imani, Uganda
* Heart of Africa Award for Best Film from Nigeria: Araromire/
The Figurine
* AMAA Achievement in Sound: I sing of a well, Ghana
* AMAA Achievement in Editing: The Child, Nigeria
* AMAA Achievement in Art Direction: Fulani, Nigeria
* AMAA Achievement in Make Up: The Child, Nigeria
* AMAA Achievement in Costume:
I sing of a Well, Ghana
* AMAA Achievement in Visual Effect: Araromire/The Figurine,
Nigeria
* Best Original Soundtrack: A sting in a Tale, Ghana
* Best Performance by a Child Actor: Teddy Onyango and Bill
Oloo —Togetherness Supreme, Kenya
* Most Promising Actress: Chelsea Eze—Silent Scandal,Nigeria/
Rahema Nanfuka—Imani, Uganda
* Most Promising Actor: Wilson Maina—Togetherness Supreme,
Kenya
* Best Performance by an Actor in a Supporting Role: Adjatey
Anang —The Perfect Picture, Ghana
* Best Performance by an Actress in a Supporting Role: Tapiwa
Gwaza —Seasons of a Life, Malawi
* Best Performance by an Actress in a Leading Role: Jackie
Appiah, Lydia Farson, Naa Ashoku Mensa_Doku —The Perfect
Picture, Ghana
* Best Performance by an Actor in a Leading Role: Ramsey
Nouah —The Figurine, Nigeria
* Best Screenplay: The Tenant, Nigeria
* AMAA Achievement in Cinematography: Araromire/The
Figurine, Nigeria
* Best Picture: Araromire/The Figurine, Nigeria
* Best Director: Kunle Afolayan —Araromire/The Figurine,
Nigeria.
Str Quest:How Juke Box beat them all
It was meant to be a night of fun and celebration and it lived up to
expectation especially given the brand behind the programme.
It was the finals of Star Quest, the hugely popular music talent
hunt sponsored by Star lager beer and, given the huge
followership of the programme on television across Africa and
beyond, expectations were high as to which of the three
remaining bands would win the coveted prize of N7.5m recording
contract, N3.6m cash, a brand new mini van, one year
guaranteed.
Accommodation in Lagos and appearances in all Star lager
organised events in 2010, including the popular 10-city music
concert tour called Star Trek as well as the prestigious international
music concert Star Mega Jam later in the year. At the end, it was
Juke Box, which was the viewing voters ’ choice.
They won the competition beating to the second and third
positions, Ace Vibes and Sapphire Blue on a night that brought to
the fore, Nigeria ’s abundant music talents. They were part of the
lucky 36 chosen from a multitude of music talents which attended
auditioning across the nation.
They are led by Eghosa Frank whose performance on the drums
is a delight to watch, any day any time. Other members include
enigmatic Joshua Itietie, also a unique piece in this band, with a
special skill of rapping with the lead guitar way beyond
imagination; Ogun State born, Agunpopo Josephine Olamide
blessed with a powerful voice, and fine-looking Wilson Emeka are
vocalists of international standard with good dancing skills.
The gentle Epanty Gregory plays the keyboard with a flourish
while Asindi Sam is a wonder to watch on the bass guitar.
Jukebox takes over from The Pulse Band, which won the
competition last year and has been ruling the airwaves with their
song “So Tey” whose remix was done with Busta Rhymes.
According to their lead singer, Juke Box is a self-motivated and
pleasurable band with the sole aim of becoming the best!
expectation especially given the brand behind the programme.
It was the finals of Star Quest, the hugely popular music talent
hunt sponsored by Star lager beer and, given the huge
followership of the programme on television across Africa and
beyond, expectations were high as to which of the three
remaining bands would win the coveted prize of N7.5m recording
contract, N3.6m cash, a brand new mini van, one year
guaranteed.
Accommodation in Lagos and appearances in all Star lager
organised events in 2010, including the popular 10-city music
concert tour called Star Trek as well as the prestigious international
music concert Star Mega Jam later in the year. At the end, it was
Juke Box, which was the viewing voters ’ choice.
They won the competition beating to the second and third
positions, Ace Vibes and Sapphire Blue on a night that brought to
the fore, Nigeria ’s abundant music talents. They were part of the
lucky 36 chosen from a multitude of music talents which attended
auditioning across the nation.
They are led by Eghosa Frank whose performance on the drums
is a delight to watch, any day any time. Other members include
enigmatic Joshua Itietie, also a unique piece in this band, with a
special skill of rapping with the lead guitar way beyond
imagination; Ogun State born, Agunpopo Josephine Olamide
blessed with a powerful voice, and fine-looking Wilson Emeka are
vocalists of international standard with good dancing skills.
The gentle Epanty Gregory plays the keyboard with a flourish
while Asindi Sam is a wonder to watch on the bass guitar.
Jukebox takes over from The Pulse Band, which won the
competition last year and has been ruling the airwaves with their
song “So Tey” whose remix was done with Busta Rhymes.
According to their lead singer, Juke Box is a self-motivated and
pleasurable band with the sole aim of becoming the best!
Police nab Terry G
Wave making Hip hop musician, Terry G, was last Tuesday
picked up for questioning by men of the Oduduwa police
department. The act followed a petition sent to the Lagos Sate
Police Commissioner by a certain G.T. Emiko, alleging that the
musician defaulted on a musical performance contact after
receiving a N500, 000 fee. In addition, he also alleged to have
collected money for five return tickets for his travel party.
Terry-G
The money was allegedly paid directly to the producer himself by
Cyril Emiko, son of Surveyor G.T Emiko for special guest
appearance at Cyril ’s graduation party which held on the 29th of
January this year.
The party was publicised all over the campus. Hotel rooms were
allegedly booked and vehicles made available to convey the artiste
and his crew when he arrived. Cyril was disappointed and aghast
when the artiste refused to show up without reason and has
received no refund (as at press time).
First, it was a furious father who called up Dele Abiodun, president
of Performing Musicians Association of Nigeria (PMAN), this week,
to complain.
Unfortunately, Terry G is not a member of PMAN and the
aggrieved father, Surveyor Emiko, who sponsored the party with
the sum of N750, 000, threatened to get the police involved and
possibly go to court over the loss. Police spokesman, Mr. Frank
Mba, who confirmed our story, said the police department had
received a petition from the aggrieved party and on the strength
of the letter invited Terry G to the office for questioning.
“To be honest with you, the young man didn’t deny the allegation.
Instead, he pledged on paper to repay every penny that he
received from the aggrieved party ”, Mr. Mba affirmed.
Was Terry G detained our reporter sought to know?
“No, he was not,” the police spokesman said.
“In civil matters like this, we try to avoid a situation where either
party is detained, especially when a gentleman agreement is
reached. Since Terry G was remorseful enough, we decided to
give him a chance to redeem his image ”
In our March edition of Showtime, we had reported how the
young man accorded with production credits for hits like ‘Aiye Po
gan’, ‘Pass me your love‘ and Free me now (which he sang), was
accused of fleeing with the sum of N500, 000, being payment for
his performance at a graduation party at the University of Benin.
picked up for questioning by men of the Oduduwa police
department. The act followed a petition sent to the Lagos Sate
Police Commissioner by a certain G.T. Emiko, alleging that the
musician defaulted on a musical performance contact after
receiving a N500, 000 fee. In addition, he also alleged to have
collected money for five return tickets for his travel party.
Terry-G
The money was allegedly paid directly to the producer himself by
Cyril Emiko, son of Surveyor G.T Emiko for special guest
appearance at Cyril ’s graduation party which held on the 29th of
January this year.
The party was publicised all over the campus. Hotel rooms were
allegedly booked and vehicles made available to convey the artiste
and his crew when he arrived. Cyril was disappointed and aghast
when the artiste refused to show up without reason and has
received no refund (as at press time).
First, it was a furious father who called up Dele Abiodun, president
of Performing Musicians Association of Nigeria (PMAN), this week,
to complain.
Unfortunately, Terry G is not a member of PMAN and the
aggrieved father, Surveyor Emiko, who sponsored the party with
the sum of N750, 000, threatened to get the police involved and
possibly go to court over the loss. Police spokesman, Mr. Frank
Mba, who confirmed our story, said the police department had
received a petition from the aggrieved party and on the strength
of the letter invited Terry G to the office for questioning.
“To be honest with you, the young man didn’t deny the allegation.
Instead, he pledged on paper to repay every penny that he
received from the aggrieved party ”, Mr. Mba affirmed.
Was Terry G detained our reporter sought to know?
“No, he was not,” the police spokesman said.
“In civil matters like this, we try to avoid a situation where either
party is detained, especially when a gentleman agreement is
reached. Since Terry G was remorseful enough, we decided to
give him a chance to redeem his image ”
In our March edition of Showtime, we had reported how the
young man accorded with production credits for hits like ‘Aiye Po
gan’, ‘Pass me your love‘ and Free me now (which he sang), was
accused of fleeing with the sum of N500, 000, being payment for
his performance at a graduation party at the University of Benin.
D'C Row tours UK,US
Adedah Omohwo Martin a.ka. D’Crow, whose debut album, The
Truth, hit record shelves sometime in March this year has
embarked on promotional tours around the United Kingdom and
United States.
According to his spokesman, Nasir
Onucheyo, the fresh debutante whose
lead single ‘My Birthday’ is enjoying
impressive rotation on Nigerian Tv and
radio stations, ‘is taking his promotion
a step further and will play a few gigs
in Dublin, London, New York and New
Jersey before returning to the country. ’
D’Crow’s 12-track album provides an
insight into his lyrical ability but also
features acts like C-mion, Timi, OJB
Jezreel and Mo Cheddar on different
tracks with production imprints of
industry giants like ID Cabassa, K-Solo,
OJB Jezreel and Blazon. His lead single
features K-Solo.
Truth, hit record shelves sometime in March this year has
embarked on promotional tours around the United Kingdom and
United States.
According to his spokesman, Nasir
Onucheyo, the fresh debutante whose
lead single ‘My Birthday’ is enjoying
impressive rotation on Nigerian Tv and
radio stations, ‘is taking his promotion
a step further and will play a few gigs
in Dublin, London, New York and New
Jersey before returning to the country. ’
D’Crow’s 12-track album provides an
insight into his lyrical ability but also
features acts like C-mion, Timi, OJB
Jezreel and Mo Cheddar on different
tracks with production imprints of
industry giants like ID Cabassa, K-Solo,
OJB Jezreel and Blazon. His lead single
features K-Solo.
Banky w,MI rocks @ Coca-Cola Concert
The disco light and other special lighting
apparatus made the ambience an electrifying
sight last Saturday night when the big names in
Nigerian music stormed OceanView Water
Front Garden at Victoria Island in Lagos for
Coca-Cola FWC 2010 VIP celebration concert.
The concert tagged “Celebration”, according to
the Strategic Marketing Manager (Colas), Coca-
Cola Nigeria Limited, Wangi Mba-Uzoukwu, was
aimed at celebrating the numerous consumers
of Coca-Cola brand as well as ushering in the
2010 World Cup.
According to her, “It became imperative for
Coca-Cola to organise a concert of this
magnitude to underscore the fact that FIFA
World Cup will be played on the African soil for the very first time.
The celebration concert is also aimed at celebrating the qualification
of the Super Eagles as well as spurring them to perform creditably
in South Africa. ”
She disclosed that apart from being FIFA official partner, Coca-
Cola is also the official sponsor of Nigerian football teams, saying
fans will have the opportunity to watch matches live in South
Africa through celebration dance promos that will reward loyal
customers across the country.
apparatus made the ambience an electrifying
sight last Saturday night when the big names in
Nigerian music stormed OceanView Water
Front Garden at Victoria Island in Lagos for
Coca-Cola FWC 2010 VIP celebration concert.
The concert tagged “Celebration”, according to
the Strategic Marketing Manager (Colas), Coca-
Cola Nigeria Limited, Wangi Mba-Uzoukwu, was
aimed at celebrating the numerous consumers
of Coca-Cola brand as well as ushering in the
2010 World Cup.
According to her, “It became imperative for
Coca-Cola to organise a concert of this
magnitude to underscore the fact that FIFA
World Cup will be played on the African soil for the very first time.
The celebration concert is also aimed at celebrating the qualification
of the Super Eagles as well as spurring them to perform creditably
in South Africa. ”
She disclosed that apart from being FIFA official partner, Coca-
Cola is also the official sponsor of Nigerian football teams, saying
fans will have the opportunity to watch matches live in South
Africa through celebration dance promos that will reward loyal
customers across the country.
Bouqui on Worldwide Rotation
‘A prophet has no honour in his own land’ is perhaps the
appropriate quote that summarizes the story of gospel rap queen,
Bouqui. Between stepping into the commercial rap game in 2005
with chart topping Mo le jo and discovering gospel or ministry,
like she puts it, to be her main stay, the ‘Radical Act of Praise (RAP)
progenitor has refused to take a break.
Born Bukola Folayan, the University of Ife graduate
is fast becoming the most travelled and performing
Nigerian artiste outside the country. Maybe, not at
the very popular gigs but the RAP minister runs an
enviable back to back itinerary that takes her from
church to concerts and colleges throughout the UK
and US and practically every other day of the week.
In this year alone, since she travelled after her
birthday in February, she ’s performed in Chicago,
Washington D.C, Maryland, Baltimore, California,
Indianapolis, Dover, Brooklyn, New York, among
others, all in the United States. At present, she ’s in
the U.K where she’s scheduled to grace platforms across East
London, Woolich, University of Hull, Central London and Plaistow
between now and mid May.
When accused of abandoning home (Nigeria), the minister said,
‘ I’ve come to realise that I’m the only gospel rapper in the world. I
mean other Christian acts sing and maybe rap a little, but I’m the
first and only known one that raps as a major, and I think this is
why there ’s a great demand on what I do, especially in this part of
the world (UK and US).
The rapper says her greatest thrill about what she does is the lives
touched and the great platform she ’s been able to access. “The
kind of pastors and international artistes I now rub shoulders with
is something that can ’t compare with anything else. There’s no
leverage bigger than watching lives change.”
appropriate quote that summarizes the story of gospel rap queen,
Bouqui. Between stepping into the commercial rap game in 2005
with chart topping Mo le jo and discovering gospel or ministry,
like she puts it, to be her main stay, the ‘Radical Act of Praise (RAP)
progenitor has refused to take a break.
Born Bukola Folayan, the University of Ife graduate
is fast becoming the most travelled and performing
Nigerian artiste outside the country. Maybe, not at
the very popular gigs but the RAP minister runs an
enviable back to back itinerary that takes her from
church to concerts and colleges throughout the UK
and US and practically every other day of the week.
In this year alone, since she travelled after her
birthday in February, she ’s performed in Chicago,
Washington D.C, Maryland, Baltimore, California,
Indianapolis, Dover, Brooklyn, New York, among
others, all in the United States. At present, she ’s in
the U.K where she’s scheduled to grace platforms across East
London, Woolich, University of Hull, Central London and Plaistow
between now and mid May.
When accused of abandoning home (Nigeria), the minister said,
‘ I’ve come to realise that I’m the only gospel rapper in the world. I
mean other Christian acts sing and maybe rap a little, but I’m the
first and only known one that raps as a major, and I think this is
why there ’s a great demand on what I do, especially in this part of
the world (UK and US).
The rapper says her greatest thrill about what she does is the lives
touched and the great platform she ’s been able to access. “The
kind of pastors and international artistes I now rub shoulders with
is something that can ’t compare with anything else. There’s no
leverage bigger than watching lives change.”
Da Happy Guy ready to rock the airwave
Friday, April 23, 2010
Nigerian-born Ogbuadike O. Sampson better
known as a Happy Guy (DHG), who’s currently
making waves in Spain, where he resides, with his
special brand of highlife/ hip-hop music recently
breezed into town to promote his latest album.
The Anambra State born crooner said the 15
tracker is entitled Ecclesiastes 4:14. Speaking on his
earliest romance with music, he disclosed that he
had always had a strong passion for music,
having been listening to greats like: Oliver de
Coque , Osita Osadebe and even foreign
musicians like, James Brown and Michael Jackson.
Further going down memory lane DHG, said his
professional music career began in 2004, in Zurich,
Switzerland, when he released his debut album
entitled “Hard to Live In” with the hit track “No More War/Sorrows
of Wars,” which was amazingly received by both Nigerians and
the Swiss.
Following a successful debut outing in Switzerland, DHG relocated
to Spain to further consolidate on his then burgeoning music
career and other personal endeavours. And so far, he has been
working tirelessly to bring a new dimension, style and definition
into his music, especially with his latest offering, which is
gradually penetrating the airwaves.
“DHG’s style, unlike other highlife-hip-hop artistes is more didactic,
teaches morals, inspirational and a little bit parochial, which makes
him a rare element among the rest.” The recently released album
with the hit track Adjibor, featuring Solar De Coque (son of late
Oliver De Coque), is already topping charts in Spain and other
parts of Europe. The development made a leading Spanish music
magazine to recently describe DHG as an icon of European hip-
hop music.
“As Da Happy Guy, I’m poised to putting succour on the faces of
people who listen to my music. My philosophy isn’t just to make
music, preach peace and all that, but to also put into practice what
I sing that was why I recently paid a courtesy visit to an
orphanage in Lagos, and donated food items, clothing materials
and cash. Also in February 2010, I took a trip to Jos, Plateau State
to donate relief materials to victims of the recent January 17,
crisis.”
DHG posited that he’s fully back in Nigeria to promote his new
album and also collaborate with few Nigerian artistes. Among
those he’s currently working with is former Bracket’s member,
Bistop, and their new single is on the way.
Nigerian-born Ogbuadike O. Sampson better
known as a Happy Guy (DHG), who’s currently
making waves in Spain, where he resides, with his
special brand of highlife/ hip-hop music recently
breezed into town to promote his latest album.
The Anambra State born crooner said the 15
tracker is entitled Ecclesiastes 4:14. Speaking on his
earliest romance with music, he disclosed that he
had always had a strong passion for music,
having been listening to greats like: Oliver de
Coque , Osita Osadebe and even foreign
musicians like, James Brown and Michael Jackson.
Further going down memory lane DHG, said his
professional music career began in 2004, in Zurich,
Switzerland, when he released his debut album
entitled “Hard to Live In” with the hit track “No More War/Sorrows
of Wars,” which was amazingly received by both Nigerians and
the Swiss.
Following a successful debut outing in Switzerland, DHG relocated
to Spain to further consolidate on his then burgeoning music
career and other personal endeavours. And so far, he has been
working tirelessly to bring a new dimension, style and definition
into his music, especially with his latest offering, which is
gradually penetrating the airwaves.
“DHG’s style, unlike other highlife-hip-hop artistes is more didactic,
teaches morals, inspirational and a little bit parochial, which makes
him a rare element among the rest.” The recently released album
with the hit track Adjibor, featuring Solar De Coque (son of late
Oliver De Coque), is already topping charts in Spain and other
parts of Europe. The development made a leading Spanish music
magazine to recently describe DHG as an icon of European hip-
hop music.
“As Da Happy Guy, I’m poised to putting succour on the faces of
people who listen to my music. My philosophy isn’t just to make
music, preach peace and all that, but to also put into practice what
I sing that was why I recently paid a courtesy visit to an
orphanage in Lagos, and donated food items, clothing materials
and cash. Also in February 2010, I took a trip to Jos, Plateau State
to donate relief materials to victims of the recent January 17,
crisis.”
DHG posited that he’s fully back in Nigeria to promote his new
album and also collaborate with few Nigerian artistes. Among
those he’s currently working with is former Bracket’s member,
Bistop, and their new single is on the way.
I never dreamt of becoming a singer-Yinka Ayefele
Friday, April 23, 2010
The story of popular musician, Yinka Ayefele is that
of resilience, courage and lots of guts. He is no
doubt one of the most celebrated musicians of all
time who has not allowed his misfortune in an
auto accident to weigh him down into self-pity.
Rather than resort to fate, the juju-gospel singer
has used his talents to put smiles on people’s faces
with his music.
As a celebrity, he is not immuned against scandals
or allegations. Recently Ayefele came under heavy
attacks concerning his success as a musician.
While some alleged that he is a ritualist, others say
he is a drug peddler, among others but the
handsome artiste spoke to Daily Sun about all this
allegations and more. Excerpt:
Background
I hail from Ekiti State where I had my primary and secondary
education. I was unable to attend of higher institution as I would
have loved to. I came to Ibadan and joined Uncle Toyin Ajagun’s
Juju band as a guitarist. I was also a member of the Boys Brigade
before I eventually joined the Federal Radio Corporation of Nigeria
(FRSC) at Ibadan. I was among the first set of artistes that
introduced musical jingles in Nigeria.
How I started playing music
It was after my accident. I was a broadcaster with the FRCN,
Ibadan national station, as a free-lance presenter. After I had the
accident from which I sustained spinal cord injury, I had the
support of both the electronic and print media. From there I
produced an album in my name, Yinka Ayefele. The first album
was Bitter Experience and it opened the way for me to become a
musician.
Expectations
I really wanted to return to broadcasting, but little did I know that I
would become a professional musician. Eventually when I
discovered that music is more profitable, I decided to remain in it
and I’m enjoying it.
My kind of music
My music can be described as Gospel Tungba music. It is my
own way of preaching the gospel. Although people say that
music may be both secular and gospel, there is no way one
would hear the beat, my percussion, lyrics and not be forced to
listen to the message in the music. Muslims and Christians alike
listen to my music. It is my way of preaching the gospel.
Fulfilment
Music has been extremely fulfilling to me. It has succeeded in
exposing the real Yinka Ayefele. I was in broadcasting in Ibadan
but only people around Ibadan knew me. But music exposed me,
not only in Nigeria but also beyond Nigeria.
Composition
When it comes to composition, I do not want to sound
monotonous so I have people who work for me and help
compositions. Some of them include Uncle Laye Adis, a musician
too, my younger brother and Kayode Emmanuel, a guitarist who
always give me songs. So it is not only my efforts.
Albums
Up till date, I have 15 which did very well in the market. My
marketer can testify to that and my listeners too can. Even people
out there can testify to this. My music is everywhere and it has
made a lot of impacts.
Sacrifice
My greatest sacrifice is the restriction that comes with the fame. I
cannot go to any public place or even a supermarket to shop for
my wife or anybody. It has always been from my car, to my
office, to the studio and back to my house. So I’m very restricted.
Challenges
The greatest challenge for me is piracy. Seeing the way people are
accepting my music, one would think that Yinka Ayefele is a multi-
millionaire. But the way my music is seen is not the way I am
reaping from it. Piracy has really affected my music. Fans who
buy these pirated copies of my music do not mind, since they
contain my music and picture. To me, that is the greatest
problem. Another problem I am faced with, especially when I go
for performances here in Nigeria, is the Oraisasor Urchins. They
always ask for financial settlements and after settling a group,
another would insist that they are the right group to be settled.
Attitude
If you are close to me, you will realize that I am not snobbish. I
am very friendly and down to earth with everybody. Like I told
my band members, no one calls me chairman. We are all
colleagues and so I do not want such preferences. I only have the
opportunity of being successful musically but there are other
musicians who are better than me.
Allegations
People who have said that I am a ritualist or that I have used my
spinal cord to attain success are all enemies of progress. Those
are all rumours. I can never negotiate any part of my body for
success of any kind and anybody who knows well about spinal
cord injury would know that it comes with regular and persistent
pain. I am very lucky to be able to make use of the upper part of
my body.
I don’t know who is behind those rumours but maybe they say
those things about me because they want to make money.
Recently, a soft sell magazine published my picture on its cover.
They featured many names but why was I singled out with my
picture? As a matter of fact, I have sued them already to the tune
of N1 billion. Also, when I traveled to America there was a rumour
that I was jailed for drugs.
When I eventually returned, the same people that peddled the
rumour celebrated me. It is very unprofessional. They are only
out to deceive people. It has become a part of us in this part of the
world. People could just insinuate something, work on it and then
spread it. But this is the prize to pay for being successful.
Music, then and now.
I think the Nigerian music industry of today has really improved.
Today our music from days past is referred to as old school. If
you listen to contemporary music, you would notice the
improvements. Everybody is working hard to bring out
something different. We can play like the western countries but
they can never play like us.
The Whites cannot play the Bata or the talking drum but we can
play their keyboard or any other musical instrument they have.
Nigeria has the largest number of musicians in Africa. There are
lots of hidden stars here, even students. If you listen to the demos
made by some young students, you would understand and
appreciate the potentials we have in Nigeria. But here, artistes are
not properly celebrated. When I was in LA, USA, a store was
locked up because an artiste came in to shop.
Financial gains
I cannot say that I have attained my financial fulfillment. I am still
working hard to get there. Though no one can be contented with
any amount of money but I am very comfortable.
Lessons learnt
I have learnt a lot of lessons. I have learnt to endure a lot of things
because in dealing with people, you must encounter different
kinds of people from different backgrounds and perspectives.
Successors
I don’t have anybody that I am grooming but there are a lot of
people who are bringing themselves up to be like me. In the next
five years, I don’t know where I will be because I did not know I
would be here today.
The story of popular musician, Yinka Ayefele is that
of resilience, courage and lots of guts. He is no
doubt one of the most celebrated musicians of all
time who has not allowed his misfortune in an
auto accident to weigh him down into self-pity.
Rather than resort to fate, the juju-gospel singer
has used his talents to put smiles on people’s faces
with his music.
As a celebrity, he is not immuned against scandals
or allegations. Recently Ayefele came under heavy
attacks concerning his success as a musician.
While some alleged that he is a ritualist, others say
he is a drug peddler, among others but the
handsome artiste spoke to Daily Sun about all this
allegations and more. Excerpt:
Background
I hail from Ekiti State where I had my primary and secondary
education. I was unable to attend of higher institution as I would
have loved to. I came to Ibadan and joined Uncle Toyin Ajagun’s
Juju band as a guitarist. I was also a member of the Boys Brigade
before I eventually joined the Federal Radio Corporation of Nigeria
(FRSC) at Ibadan. I was among the first set of artistes that
introduced musical jingles in Nigeria.
How I started playing music
It was after my accident. I was a broadcaster with the FRCN,
Ibadan national station, as a free-lance presenter. After I had the
accident from which I sustained spinal cord injury, I had the
support of both the electronic and print media. From there I
produced an album in my name, Yinka Ayefele. The first album
was Bitter Experience and it opened the way for me to become a
musician.
Expectations
I really wanted to return to broadcasting, but little did I know that I
would become a professional musician. Eventually when I
discovered that music is more profitable, I decided to remain in it
and I’m enjoying it.
My kind of music
My music can be described as Gospel Tungba music. It is my
own way of preaching the gospel. Although people say that
music may be both secular and gospel, there is no way one
would hear the beat, my percussion, lyrics and not be forced to
listen to the message in the music. Muslims and Christians alike
listen to my music. It is my way of preaching the gospel.
Fulfilment
Music has been extremely fulfilling to me. It has succeeded in
exposing the real Yinka Ayefele. I was in broadcasting in Ibadan
but only people around Ibadan knew me. But music exposed me,
not only in Nigeria but also beyond Nigeria.
Composition
When it comes to composition, I do not want to sound
monotonous so I have people who work for me and help
compositions. Some of them include Uncle Laye Adis, a musician
too, my younger brother and Kayode Emmanuel, a guitarist who
always give me songs. So it is not only my efforts.
Albums
Up till date, I have 15 which did very well in the market. My
marketer can testify to that and my listeners too can. Even people
out there can testify to this. My music is everywhere and it has
made a lot of impacts.
Sacrifice
My greatest sacrifice is the restriction that comes with the fame. I
cannot go to any public place or even a supermarket to shop for
my wife or anybody. It has always been from my car, to my
office, to the studio and back to my house. So I’m very restricted.
Challenges
The greatest challenge for me is piracy. Seeing the way people are
accepting my music, one would think that Yinka Ayefele is a multi-
millionaire. But the way my music is seen is not the way I am
reaping from it. Piracy has really affected my music. Fans who
buy these pirated copies of my music do not mind, since they
contain my music and picture. To me, that is the greatest
problem. Another problem I am faced with, especially when I go
for performances here in Nigeria, is the Oraisasor Urchins. They
always ask for financial settlements and after settling a group,
another would insist that they are the right group to be settled.
Attitude
If you are close to me, you will realize that I am not snobbish. I
am very friendly and down to earth with everybody. Like I told
my band members, no one calls me chairman. We are all
colleagues and so I do not want such preferences. I only have the
opportunity of being successful musically but there are other
musicians who are better than me.
Allegations
People who have said that I am a ritualist or that I have used my
spinal cord to attain success are all enemies of progress. Those
are all rumours. I can never negotiate any part of my body for
success of any kind and anybody who knows well about spinal
cord injury would know that it comes with regular and persistent
pain. I am very lucky to be able to make use of the upper part of
my body.
I don’t know who is behind those rumours but maybe they say
those things about me because they want to make money.
Recently, a soft sell magazine published my picture on its cover.
They featured many names but why was I singled out with my
picture? As a matter of fact, I have sued them already to the tune
of N1 billion. Also, when I traveled to America there was a rumour
that I was jailed for drugs.
When I eventually returned, the same people that peddled the
rumour celebrated me. It is very unprofessional. They are only
out to deceive people. It has become a part of us in this part of the
world. People could just insinuate something, work on it and then
spread it. But this is the prize to pay for being successful.
Music, then and now.
I think the Nigerian music industry of today has really improved.
Today our music from days past is referred to as old school. If
you listen to contemporary music, you would notice the
improvements. Everybody is working hard to bring out
something different. We can play like the western countries but
they can never play like us.
The Whites cannot play the Bata or the talking drum but we can
play their keyboard or any other musical instrument they have.
Nigeria has the largest number of musicians in Africa. There are
lots of hidden stars here, even students. If you listen to the demos
made by some young students, you would understand and
appreciate the potentials we have in Nigeria. But here, artistes are
not properly celebrated. When I was in LA, USA, a store was
locked up because an artiste came in to shop.
Financial gains
I cannot say that I have attained my financial fulfillment. I am still
working hard to get there. Though no one can be contented with
any amount of money but I am very comfortable.
Lessons learnt
I have learnt a lot of lessons. I have learnt to endure a lot of things
because in dealing with people, you must encounter different
kinds of people from different backgrounds and perspectives.
Successors
I don’t have anybody that I am grooming but there are a lot of
people who are bringing themselves up to be like me. In the next
five years, I don’t know where I will be because I did not know I
would be here today.
J-Martins,Martins,Bracket,Others Unite for Flavour
Friday, April 23, 2010
Rave entertainers like: Bracket, Nigga Raw, JMartins,
MC Loph and a host of others recently stormed
Enugu State for N’Abania exponent, Chinedu Okoli,
popularly known as Flavour, and thrilled at the
formal launch of his new album, Uplifted.
The event which, held at the Villa Toscana Hotels
Enugu, was well-attended. The N’abania crooner
kick started the event by wowing his teeming fans
with hit tracks like; Oyi (Cold), Alcohol and the
remix of Bob Marley’s popular number, “My
woman is Gone’’.
The album release party was a long night as all the
big artistes on parade took their turns to thrill the
audience with performances that kept them
rocking and asking for more till the wee hours of
the following morning.
Uplifted, is an 18-tracker-effort, a follow-up to the successful
N’abania album and also featured a remix of the controversial
track, ‘Ashawo.’
Flavour who produced most of the tracks with the help of his
colleagues such as: M-Jay, Jay-Stunt and Lord Cornel said he was
grateful to God that at last, the album has finally hit the market.
He thanked his fans for their support, insisting that he had them in
mind when writing most of the tracks.
Rave entertainers like: Bracket, Nigga Raw, JMartins,
MC Loph and a host of others recently stormed
Enugu State for N’Abania exponent, Chinedu Okoli,
popularly known as Flavour, and thrilled at the
formal launch of his new album, Uplifted.
The event which, held at the Villa Toscana Hotels
Enugu, was well-attended. The N’abania crooner
kick started the event by wowing his teeming fans
with hit tracks like; Oyi (Cold), Alcohol and the
remix of Bob Marley’s popular number, “My
woman is Gone’’.
The album release party was a long night as all the
big artistes on parade took their turns to thrill the
audience with performances that kept them
rocking and asking for more till the wee hours of
the following morning.
Uplifted, is an 18-tracker-effort, a follow-up to the successful
N’abania album and also featured a remix of the controversial
track, ‘Ashawo.’
Flavour who produced most of the tracks with the help of his
colleagues such as: M-Jay, Jay-Stunt and Lord Cornel said he was
grateful to God that at last, the album has finally hit the market.
He thanked his fans for their support, insisting that he had them in
mind when writing most of the tracks.
Tiger's Mistress Want another 15 minutes
April 22, 2010
Tiger Woods’ number one gal pal
on the side has just cashed in…again.
Rachel Uchitel has just landed her
very own TV show.
As Hollyscoop previously reported,
she ’s been getting hit up by
numerous production companies
around town to star in her own
show.
Elin's Summer Plans: Renovate
and Divorce
TMZ adds that the working title of the show is called Romancing
Rachel, with the premise being about Rachel finding a decent guy to
date in the wake of the Tiger scandal. The show will follow her hunt
for true love. Excuse us while we barf.
Rachel reportedly pitched the idea to E!, VH1, Oxygen and Lifetime.
Lifetime and E! have passed, but VH1 and Oxygen are still
considering.
Tiger Parties Hard With Elin Gone
We’re shocked E! would turn up their nose at Uchitel, yet they gave
the green light to Pretty Wild. Apparently Rachel has producer Scott
Jeffress on her side, who brought us Jersey Shore, The Bachelor,
and other reality show gems.
This has trainwreck written all over it. We love the sense of
entitlement that comes with being a celebrity mistress these days—
Rachel’s probably under the impression she deserves a reality
show.
Tiger Woods’ number one gal pal
on the side has just cashed in…again.
Rachel Uchitel has just landed her
very own TV show.
As Hollyscoop previously reported,
she ’s been getting hit up by
numerous production companies
around town to star in her own
show.
Elin's Summer Plans: Renovate
and Divorce
TMZ adds that the working title of the show is called Romancing
Rachel, with the premise being about Rachel finding a decent guy to
date in the wake of the Tiger scandal. The show will follow her hunt
for true love. Excuse us while we barf.
Rachel reportedly pitched the idea to E!, VH1, Oxygen and Lifetime.
Lifetime and E! have passed, but VH1 and Oxygen are still
considering.
Tiger Parties Hard With Elin Gone
We’re shocked E! would turn up their nose at Uchitel, yet they gave
the green light to Pretty Wild. Apparently Rachel has producer Scott
Jeffress on her side, who brought us Jersey Shore, The Bachelor,
and other reality show gems.
This has trainwreck written all over it. We love the sense of
entitlement that comes with being a celebrity mistress these days—
Rachel’s probably under the impression she deserves a reality
show.
Dj Am Makes Cameo in Iron Man 2
April 22, 2010
As morbid as it is, it’s pretty cool to
see performances in movies from
people who have passed away. It ’s a
nice way to see the person’s work live
on even after death.
Heath Ledger was celebrated in his
final rose before his passing in The
Imaginarum of Doctor Parnassus, and
now DJ AM is getting the same
treatment.
Iron Man 2 to be Shown in IMAX
The late celebrity DJ is featured in the upcoming Iron Man, which
comes out in theaters May 7th. He filmed the scene in the film just
two months before he overdosed and died at his NYC apartment.
At first, director Jon Favreau wasn ’t sure about keeping the cameo
in the final cut.
He told the LA Times, “We tried to make it respectful, and for
people who know him, they’ll get a kick out of it and for people
who don’t, it will sort of slide by without much notice.”
As morbid as it is, it’s pretty cool to
see performances in movies from
people who have passed away. It ’s a
nice way to see the person’s work live
on even after death.
Heath Ledger was celebrated in his
final rose before his passing in The
Imaginarum of Doctor Parnassus, and
now DJ AM is getting the same
treatment.
Iron Man 2 to be Shown in IMAX
The late celebrity DJ is featured in the upcoming Iron Man, which
comes out in theaters May 7th. He filmed the scene in the film just
two months before he overdosed and died at his NYC apartment.
At first, director Jon Favreau wasn ’t sure about keeping the cameo
in the final cut.
He told the LA Times, “We tried to make it respectful, and for
people who know him, they’ll get a kick out of it and for people
who don’t, it will sort of slide by without much notice.”
Naomi Campbell Attacks Reporter Over Diamond
April 22, 2010
Naomi Campbell lost her temper
once again. Are we really surprised?
An ABC news reporter was asking
Campbell some questions and she
managed to get angry and walk out
on the interview, not before pushing
the camera.
Naomi Campbell is
"Embarrassed" About Her Past
The reporter was asking her questions on the allegations that
Campbell was given a "blood diamond" by the deposed African
despot Charles Taylor.
"I didn't receive a diamond and I'm not going to speak about that,"
Campbell told the ABC News reporter.
Naomi Campbell Escapes Charges After Assault
To Naomi's defense, the reporter was a bit pushy and kept pushing
the subject and with her temper, it was only obvious that things
were gonna get ugly.
Naomi Campbell lost her temper
once again. Are we really surprised?
An ABC news reporter was asking
Campbell some questions and she
managed to get angry and walk out
on the interview, not before pushing
the camera.
Naomi Campbell is
"Embarrassed" About Her Past
The reporter was asking her questions on the allegations that
Campbell was given a "blood diamond" by the deposed African
despot Charles Taylor.
"I didn't receive a diamond and I'm not going to speak about that,"
Campbell told the ABC News reporter.
Naomi Campbell Escapes Charges After Assault
To Naomi's defense, the reporter was a bit pushy and kept pushing
the subject and with her temper, it was only obvious that things
were gonna get ugly.
kate Gosselin to Dance Dirty with Hoff
April 22, 2010
If you thought Kate Gosselin getting
kicked off Dancing With the Stars
meant she was going to disappear
back to Pennsylvania, you were
wrong!
The mom of eight is reportedly
scanning Hollywood bachelors at the
moment in hopes of finding a new
man.
According to Popeater, Kate has her
eye on two guys in particular, and we almost thought this was a
late April Fools joke. The two top picks are Jeff Goldblum and
David Hasselhoff.
Obama and Kate Gosselin Sleeping Under the Same Roof
A friend of the mom of eight says, "Kate is serious about going
Hollywood and thinks dating a celebrity is a great idea. When Kate
sees how Tom Cruise changed Katie Holmes life, it became clear
that she needed to do the same.
Kate Gosselin Slams Jon Gosselin
Obviously, she knows she's not yet ready to date a George
Clooney, but she thinks she would be the perfect partner for a Jeff
Goldblum or someone like David Hasselhoff."
Yeah, the Hoff is a real good choice since he screams father figure.
Did Kate happen to miss that drunken burger session caught on
tape last year? Sadly, the only person desperate enough to date her
to get more press is her ex-husband Jon Gosselin.
If you thought Kate Gosselin getting
kicked off Dancing With the Stars
meant she was going to disappear
back to Pennsylvania, you were
wrong!
The mom of eight is reportedly
scanning Hollywood bachelors at the
moment in hopes of finding a new
man.
According to Popeater, Kate has her
eye on two guys in particular, and we almost thought this was a
late April Fools joke. The two top picks are Jeff Goldblum and
David Hasselhoff.
Obama and Kate Gosselin Sleeping Under the Same Roof
A friend of the mom of eight says, "Kate is serious about going
Hollywood and thinks dating a celebrity is a great idea. When Kate
sees how Tom Cruise changed Katie Holmes life, it became clear
that she needed to do the same.
Kate Gosselin Slams Jon Gosselin
Obviously, she knows she's not yet ready to date a George
Clooney, but she thinks she would be the perfect partner for a Jeff
Goldblum or someone like David Hasselhoff."
Yeah, the Hoff is a real good choice since he screams father figure.
Did Kate happen to miss that drunken burger session caught on
tape last year? Sadly, the only person desperate enough to date her
to get more press is her ex-husband Jon Gosselin.
Sunday, April 18, 2010
Jay-Z and Beyonce perform 'Forever Young' @ Coachella 2010
April 17,
2010
Jay-Z had a
special guest
on stage last
night as he
performed
at the
Coachella
Music
Festival. His
wife
Beyonce graced her presence
on stage and they performed
“ Forever Young” together.
Beyonce was watching HOVA on
stage from the sidelines when
he called her out to help him
finish off his set.
B was standing with the
Governators wife, Maria Shriver.
Odd grouping.
Other celebs that have been
spotted at Coachella so far are:
Katy Perry, Taryn Manning, John
Mayer, Kelly Osbourne, Lindsay
Lohan and many more...
2010
Jay-Z had a
special guest
on stage last
night as he
performed
at the
Coachella
Music
Festival. His
wife
Beyonce graced her presence
on stage and they performed
“ Forever Young” together.
Beyonce was watching HOVA on
stage from the sidelines when
he called her out to help him
finish off his set.
B was standing with the
Governators wife, Maria Shriver.
Odd grouping.
Other celebs that have been
spotted at Coachella so far are:
Katy Perry, Taryn Manning, John
Mayer, Kelly Osbourne, Lindsay
Lohan and many more...
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