We still don’t understand what has
happened, or what is about to happen - but
Kelly Hansome, who has placed several
allegations on the doorsteps of Kennis music,
is suddenly singing a new tune.
Sources at the label revealed that Kelly is
sober and apologetic, and making desperate
moves to reconcile with label bosses Keke
and D 1
On Tuesday, a post on Kelly’s Facebook status
read, ‘with respect to our new
understanding, I, Kelly Hansome, sincerely
apologise to Kennis music and Primetime and
Mr Kenny Ogungbe aka Baba Keke for any
comment, write up, publication or interview
by me, directly or indirectly, that may have
shown disrespect or put a hole on their
reputation and respectable status…’
Contacted, Kennis Music CEO, Kenny Ogungbe
said he has ‘no comments for now’.
A source at the label however said
representatives of both parties have been
meeting, and that Kelly is hoping to renew
his ties with the label.
Until recently, Kelly was signed to Kennis
music, where he released the hugely
successful ‘Maga Don Pay’. He walked out of
his contract with the label in 2009, claiming
he was no longer satisfied with the contract
conditions, and that the label was not
fulfilling its promise to him.
But time soon showed it wasn’t only Kennis
that Kelly had issues with - in just a few
months, he has attacked the Mo Hits Camp,
MI, Terry G and others. And he has promised
that his upcoming album, titled ‘Names of
Noisemakers’ will target everyone he has
issues with.
Saturday, June 19, 2010
KSB parties with turn around
KSB parties with turn around
9 hours ago
It was an evening of fun, music and dance
for Kenny Saint Brown ’s friends, fans and the
patrons of Red Lounge on Oregun Road in
Ikeja on 5th of June, 2010 when the veteran
gospel music singer brought her new brand
of kingdom music to the Lagos club scene.
The event was the launch of her new album,
“ Turn Around”, on which she featured some
of the hottest new artistes and producers on
the Nigerian music scene.
Kenny Saint Brown
It was an elated KSB who appeared on the
red carpet in front of cameras and
journalists, followed by fellow artistes, fans
and family to celebrate her latest birth.
“I feel so fulfilled today, to see this day as a
success,” KSB said on the red carpet,
practically bouncing around with excitement.
“ I feel like someone who has been pregnant
for about three years. It all started when I
was rebranding, I didn ’t have a line of the
album at that time. I was just following
instructions from God. I feel so blessed and
favoured for this new assignment. ”
She said this was the first step in pursuing
her new mission of bringing kingdom music
to the club scene in Nigeria. The red carpet
was swarming with new and upcoming
artistes, many of who were on the album
with her.
One person who stood out on the carpet was
legendary masked man, Lagbaja, who, to the
surprise of even KSB herself, was there to
support the gospel musician. On seeing him,
she quickly went across to give him a warm
welcome, before Lagbaja himself was
practically swallowed up by the waiting
paparazzi.
Inside the club, the evening started off with
performances by label_mates, Essence and
Jaywon, plus Afro hip hop crooner Danny
Young and a host of other acts, which were
all well received by the eager crowd at the
club.
Then on stage came the woman of the
moment, who started of with Alaye, a song
co_written with ID Cabasa.
Earlier she had said that this particular song
was one of the most challenging on her
album
9 hours ago
It was an evening of fun, music and dance
for Kenny Saint Brown ’s friends, fans and the
patrons of Red Lounge on Oregun Road in
Ikeja on 5th of June, 2010 when the veteran
gospel music singer brought her new brand
of kingdom music to the Lagos club scene.
The event was the launch of her new album,
“ Turn Around”, on which she featured some
of the hottest new artistes and producers on
the Nigerian music scene.
Kenny Saint Brown
It was an elated KSB who appeared on the
red carpet in front of cameras and
journalists, followed by fellow artistes, fans
and family to celebrate her latest birth.
“I feel so fulfilled today, to see this day as a
success,” KSB said on the red carpet,
practically bouncing around with excitement.
“ I feel like someone who has been pregnant
for about three years. It all started when I
was rebranding, I didn ’t have a line of the
album at that time. I was just following
instructions from God. I feel so blessed and
favoured for this new assignment. ”
She said this was the first step in pursuing
her new mission of bringing kingdom music
to the club scene in Nigeria. The red carpet
was swarming with new and upcoming
artistes, many of who were on the album
with her.
One person who stood out on the carpet was
legendary masked man, Lagbaja, who, to the
surprise of even KSB herself, was there to
support the gospel musician. On seeing him,
she quickly went across to give him a warm
welcome, before Lagbaja himself was
practically swallowed up by the waiting
paparazzi.
Inside the club, the evening started off with
performances by label_mates, Essence and
Jaywon, plus Afro hip hop crooner Danny
Young and a host of other acts, which were
all well received by the eager crowd at the
club.
Then on stage came the woman of the
moment, who started of with Alaye, a song
co_written with ID Cabasa.
Earlier she had said that this particular song
was one of the most challenging on her
album
MTV host Sasha,Naeto C,others
Sasha and naeto-C
Nigerian acts Sasha, Eldee and Naeto C are
guests of MTV this week. In South Africa to
support the national team, they will perform
with honcho eLDee, who will be going up
against South African acts like TK Zee, DJ Black
Coffee, DJ Switch, DJ Biz, DJ Vigi and VJ Fix.
MTV base Lounge kicked off on June 10,
2010 and will be rocking Latinova, in
Rosebank, Johannesburg, every Wednesday,
Thursday and Friday night until July 11.
Guest appearance at the lounge this week
was Sasha and Naeto C. Naeto C, the first
Nigerian rapper to ever win in the ‘Best New
comer’ at the MTV Africa Music Awards in
2008 has gone on to prove himself as an act
to court. His label mate Sasha is presently
working on her second studio album ‘Sasha
Speaks’.
Fela grabs three awards
The hit Broadway musical FELA! which
bagged 11 Tony awards
nomination few weeks ago, received three
Tony plagues for the Best Choreography,
Best Costume Design of a Musical and Best
Sound Design of a Musical category at the
award proper held yesterday (Sunday, June
13 2010) at Radio City Music Hall in New York
City.
La Cage aux Folles’ which also got 11 nods on
this year’s Tony awards nomination list,
putting it in a tie with the Bill T. Jones
directed FELA! , as well as ’Fences’ also
grabbed three Tony awards each.
The musical show, FELA! Chronicles the true
life story of Nigerian Afro beat maestro, Fela
Anikulapo_Kuti. His music, activism and
rascality were recapped in the play which
became the toast of New Yorkers and
Americans at large as the Eugene ‘O Neill
theatre turned a besieged ground since the
show premiered there.
Nigerian acts Sasha, Eldee and Naeto C are
guests of MTV this week. In South Africa to
support the national team, they will perform
with honcho eLDee, who will be going up
against South African acts like TK Zee, DJ Black
Coffee, DJ Switch, DJ Biz, DJ Vigi and VJ Fix.
MTV base Lounge kicked off on June 10,
2010 and will be rocking Latinova, in
Rosebank, Johannesburg, every Wednesday,
Thursday and Friday night until July 11.
Guest appearance at the lounge this week
was Sasha and Naeto C. Naeto C, the first
Nigerian rapper to ever win in the ‘Best New
comer’ at the MTV Africa Music Awards in
2008 has gone on to prove himself as an act
to court. His label mate Sasha is presently
working on her second studio album ‘Sasha
Speaks’.
Fela grabs three awards
The hit Broadway musical FELA! which
bagged 11 Tony awards
nomination few weeks ago, received three
Tony plagues for the Best Choreography,
Best Costume Design of a Musical and Best
Sound Design of a Musical category at the
award proper held yesterday (Sunday, June
13 2010) at Radio City Music Hall in New York
City.
La Cage aux Folles’ which also got 11 nods on
this year’s Tony awards nomination list,
putting it in a tie with the Bill T. Jones
directed FELA! , as well as ’Fences’ also
grabbed three Tony awards each.
The musical show, FELA! Chronicles the true
life story of Nigerian Afro beat maestro, Fela
Anikulapo_Kuti. His music, activism and
rascality were recapped in the play which
became the toast of New Yorkers and
Americans at large as the Eugene ‘O Neill
theatre turned a besieged ground since the
show premiered there.
KIDNEY PROBLEM:fashola to the rescue
Lanre Shakomended
He has prayed and is still praying. That his
wife will make it through this traumatic
phase. And now the solution seems nearer.
After two months of writing the Lagos State
government on the plight of his wife,
Premier Music A & R manager, Lanre Fakeye
a. k. a Shakomended has been referred to St
Nicholas Hospital Lagos to receive treatment
for his wife on the bill of the state. The
covering letter states that Tomilayo, his 27-
year-old wife, should be tested all over again.
“We spoke with the specialist, Dr Bamboye, at
St Nicholas last week and he has performed
all the necessary tests again so as to have
proper assessment of the situation at hand.
His report confirms that she needs an urgent
kidney transplant.
The medical report has been sent back to the
Government House, Alausa, for reaction
before the hospital can undertake the
surgery ” Lanre said.
People well familiar with government modus
operandi say that it could take another four
to six months before a go-ahead covering
cheque be sent to the hospital in favour of
Mrs Tomilayo Fakeye ’s surgery.
Not unaware of government bureaucracy
Lanre says, “I’m really praying that the whole
process will be fast tracked and that we
won ’t be caught up in the whole … My wife
needs urgent attention”. Apart from the cost
for the surgery which Governor Fashola will
foot, hopefully, Lanre still neds to make
about N2m available for medication after
surgery.
“I wish I could find a loan somewhere. She is
being managed by LUTH (Lagos University
Teaching Hospital) and so we visit there
every week ”.
Though thankful that his wife is not
bedridden, Lanre still has to take care of the
only fruit the union who will turn three later
in October. ‘I need to pick her (his daughter)
from school everyday. My little sister that
used to help out recently got married so I
have to do everything all by myself ”, he
resigned.
He has prayed and is still praying. That his
wife will make it through this traumatic
phase. And now the solution seems nearer.
After two months of writing the Lagos State
government on the plight of his wife,
Premier Music A & R manager, Lanre Fakeye
a. k. a Shakomended has been referred to St
Nicholas Hospital Lagos to receive treatment
for his wife on the bill of the state. The
covering letter states that Tomilayo, his 27-
year-old wife, should be tested all over again.
“We spoke with the specialist, Dr Bamboye, at
St Nicholas last week and he has performed
all the necessary tests again so as to have
proper assessment of the situation at hand.
His report confirms that she needs an urgent
kidney transplant.
The medical report has been sent back to the
Government House, Alausa, for reaction
before the hospital can undertake the
surgery ” Lanre said.
People well familiar with government modus
operandi say that it could take another four
to six months before a go-ahead covering
cheque be sent to the hospital in favour of
Mrs Tomilayo Fakeye ’s surgery.
Not unaware of government bureaucracy
Lanre says, “I’m really praying that the whole
process will be fast tracked and that we
won ’t be caught up in the whole … My wife
needs urgent attention”. Apart from the cost
for the surgery which Governor Fashola will
foot, hopefully, Lanre still neds to make
about N2m available for medication after
surgery.
“I wish I could find a loan somewhere. She is
being managed by LUTH (Lagos University
Teaching Hospital) and so we visit there
every week ”.
Though thankful that his wife is not
bedridden, Lanre still has to take care of the
only fruit the union who will turn three later
in October. ‘I need to pick her (his daughter)
from school everyday. My little sister that
used to help out recently got married so I
have to do everything all by myself ”, he
resigned.
Friday, June 18, 2010
Hurbert Bals bail out Nollywood director
Nigeria film director and graduate of
Nigeria ’s premiere film school, the National
Film Institute, Jos, Kenneth Gyang has been
selected to benefit from the Hubert Bals Fund
in Netherland for the production of his film
“ Confusion Na Wa”. He was once recognized
as the youngest film maker in Nigeria years
ago.
The film also has secured a distribution deal
for Netherlands, Belgium and Luxembourg.
Gyang who has continued to beef up his
profile partnered with the British
Broadcasting Corporation (BBC) as director
on “Wetin Dey”. Equally, he produced and
directed the “Finding Aisha” series for which
he won the Young Producer Award at the
last edition of The Future Awards.
Kenneth
The Hubert Bals Fund of the International
Film Festival Rotterdam (IFFR) selected 29
projects to be given grants for script
development, digital production, post-
production, distribution and workshops. In
its Spring 2010 selection, the Fund is said to
have provided 450,000 Euro for projects
from 22 countries.
Nigeria ’s premiere film school, the National
Film Institute, Jos, Kenneth Gyang has been
selected to benefit from the Hubert Bals Fund
in Netherland for the production of his film
“ Confusion Na Wa”. He was once recognized
as the youngest film maker in Nigeria years
ago.
The film also has secured a distribution deal
for Netherlands, Belgium and Luxembourg.
Gyang who has continued to beef up his
profile partnered with the British
Broadcasting Corporation (BBC) as director
on “Wetin Dey”. Equally, he produced and
directed the “Finding Aisha” series for which
he won the Young Producer Award at the
last edition of The Future Awards.
Kenneth
The Hubert Bals Fund of the International
Film Festival Rotterdam (IFFR) selected 29
projects to be given grants for script
development, digital production, post-
production, distribution and workshops. In
its Spring 2010 selection, the Fund is said to
have provided 450,000 Euro for projects
from 22 countries.
Ibekwe wins best film prize @ Ecrans Noire filmfest
Chike Ibekwe, whose project “Letter to the
Prof” is slated for the Babylon International
Assisted Funds, has continue to add more
feathers to his cap. The young Nigerian film
maker won the Best Film Prize award at the
just concluded 14th Ecrans Noire Film Festival
in Cameroun.
Ibekwe’s “Eternal” shared the Golden Screen
best film award with “An Unusual Woman”
by Abdoulaye Dao, a director from Burkina
Faso. His film was the only Nigerian film in
competition with other outstanding features
from France, Haiti, and other countries but it
came out tops.
“Eternal”, a 94 -minute film, tells the story of
two Nigerian soldier friends, and members
of the West African intervention force,
ECOMOG, Dozie and Chima on peace keeping
in Sierra Leone. Unfortunately, Chima is killed
in a car accident as they head to base after a
social event.
Ibekwe
A devastated Dozie finds himself
overwhelmed by the ghost of Chima after a
long and protracted mourning, a
symptomatic of a continued bond. Funding
for the film project was from France.
The film was selected and screened at Film
festival d ’armiens in France in 2008 and at
ZUMA Film festival in Nigeria in 2008.His
second film, Letter to the Professor features
Prof. Wole Soyinka, the first African Nobel
laureate in Literature.
Prof” is slated for the Babylon International
Assisted Funds, has continue to add more
feathers to his cap. The young Nigerian film
maker won the Best Film Prize award at the
just concluded 14th Ecrans Noire Film Festival
in Cameroun.
Ibekwe’s “Eternal” shared the Golden Screen
best film award with “An Unusual Woman”
by Abdoulaye Dao, a director from Burkina
Faso. His film was the only Nigerian film in
competition with other outstanding features
from France, Haiti, and other countries but it
came out tops.
“Eternal”, a 94 -minute film, tells the story of
two Nigerian soldier friends, and members
of the West African intervention force,
ECOMOG, Dozie and Chima on peace keeping
in Sierra Leone. Unfortunately, Chima is killed
in a car accident as they head to base after a
social event.
Ibekwe
A devastated Dozie finds himself
overwhelmed by the ghost of Chima after a
long and protracted mourning, a
symptomatic of a continued bond. Funding
for the film project was from France.
The film was selected and screened at Film
festival d ’armiens in France in 2008 and at
ZUMA Film festival in Nigeria in 2008.His
second film, Letter to the Professor features
Prof. Wole Soyinka, the first African Nobel
laureate in Literature.
Ejike,Hanks bags top govt job
Hank Anuku and Mr. Ejike Asiegbu
Call it a season of political appointments for
artistes and you may not be wrong.
Nollywood actors are beginning to take the
front seats in the scheme of things as they
join forces with the powers-that-be to steer
the ship of state.
Last week, embattled former national
president of the Actors Guild of Nigeria
(AGN), Mr. Ejike Asiegbu, was appointed a
Special Assistant on Entertainment to
Governor Theodor Orji of Abia State.
Asiegbu’s appointment came barely a month
after hunk actor, Hank Anuku was also
appointed a special adviser to the Delta State
Governor, Uduaghan, on Tourism and
Entertainment.
HVP gathered that the baritone voice actor’s
appointment took him by surprise.
Asiegbu, according a source, was sighted at
the celebrity hangout, O ’jez, in Surulere, last
weekend, where he was celebrating and
clinking glasses with his friends and well-
wishes over his new appointment.
Asiegbu is believed to have paid his dues in
the Nigerian entertainment industry. With a
thriving career spanning over two decades,
the University of Port-Harcourt, Theatre Arts
graduate has traversed television and stage
productions before berthing in Nollywood ’s
big screens as an actor.
Equally, Hank, HVP learnt was appointed
special adviser to Governor Uduaghan on
Tourism and Entertainment last month,
succeeding actor Richard Mofe Damijo who
was made the state ’s Commissioner for
Tourism. Notwithstanding his long absence
from the movie scene, this is a new dawn
for the actor.
By his new position, Hank’s lifestyle is sure
to receive a boost as he abandons his
hobby of riding power bike for his new
political appointment in addition to losing his
casual and gangster dress sense for a suit, T
Shirt and trousers with a pair of shoes to
match.
Asiegbu and Hank have come of age, joining
the likes of RMD, Okey Bakassi, Onyeka
Onwenu, Bongos Ikwe and many other
entertainers
Call it a season of political appointments for
artistes and you may not be wrong.
Nollywood actors are beginning to take the
front seats in the scheme of things as they
join forces with the powers-that-be to steer
the ship of state.
Last week, embattled former national
president of the Actors Guild of Nigeria
(AGN), Mr. Ejike Asiegbu, was appointed a
Special Assistant on Entertainment to
Governor Theodor Orji of Abia State.
Asiegbu’s appointment came barely a month
after hunk actor, Hank Anuku was also
appointed a special adviser to the Delta State
Governor, Uduaghan, on Tourism and
Entertainment.
HVP gathered that the baritone voice actor’s
appointment took him by surprise.
Asiegbu, according a source, was sighted at
the celebrity hangout, O ’jez, in Surulere, last
weekend, where he was celebrating and
clinking glasses with his friends and well-
wishes over his new appointment.
Asiegbu is believed to have paid his dues in
the Nigerian entertainment industry. With a
thriving career spanning over two decades,
the University of Port-Harcourt, Theatre Arts
graduate has traversed television and stage
productions before berthing in Nollywood ’s
big screens as an actor.
Equally, Hank, HVP learnt was appointed
special adviser to Governor Uduaghan on
Tourism and Entertainment last month,
succeeding actor Richard Mofe Damijo who
was made the state ’s Commissioner for
Tourism. Notwithstanding his long absence
from the movie scene, this is a new dawn
for the actor.
By his new position, Hank’s lifestyle is sure
to receive a boost as he abandons his
hobby of riding power bike for his new
political appointment in addition to losing his
casual and gangster dress sense for a suit, T
Shirt and trousers with a pair of shoes to
match.
Asiegbu and Hank have come of age, joining
the likes of RMD, Okey Bakassi, Onyeka
Onwenu, Bongos Ikwe and many other
entertainers
Mr Ibu is champion sports man
Worried by the agonizing treatment often
times meted to Africans who travel to
Europe and other parts of the world in
search of greener pastures, a migration
resource agency, Towncrier International,
based in Germany, has premiered a heart-
rendering movie chronicling the ugly trend
as a way of protesting against whites ’
insensitivity to the plight of African
immigrants.
“The Champion Sportsman” is the title of the
movie. It’s a movie of intrigues which aims
at enlightening people on the challenges of
African migrants. The film, which press
preview was held penutimate Wednesday, at
O ’jez Chinese Restaurant, in Surulere, by the
agency is an eye-opener for desperate
travellers who,overwhelmed by the desire to
travel, disregards the experiences of others
and embark on such trips.
Mr Ibu
Shot mainly in Berlin and Okigwe, Nigeria,
with the collaboration of German artists and
the German University of Art, Braunschweig,
The Champion Sportsman tells a gripping
story of Okoro, a Nigerian who “sells all his
properties, and with the proceeds, buys a
false passport with visa and travelled to
Berlin, Germany.
On arrival, his initial plan to stay only six
months and make as much money, get
subsumed by language problems, cultural
differences, racial psychologies, socio-
economic hardship as well as a deportation
process ”.
As he finds himself in a dilemma, Okoro must
decide whether to give up or confront the
Europe that is quickly becoming a boxing
ring for unprepared immigrants from Africa.
Featuring such Nollywood stars as John
Okafor (a.k.a Mr. Ibu), Patience Ozokwo,
Sandra Achums, and some German artistes,
The Champion Sportsman a 115- minutes film
in English, German, Igbo and pidgin, was shot
in July and August last year. The film reveals
the typical cliches of Europe in Africa which
cause immigrants to arrive in their desired
country unprepared to all obstacles. It
questions the typical European attitudes
towards
times meted to Africans who travel to
Europe and other parts of the world in
search of greener pastures, a migration
resource agency, Towncrier International,
based in Germany, has premiered a heart-
rendering movie chronicling the ugly trend
as a way of protesting against whites ’
insensitivity to the plight of African
immigrants.
“The Champion Sportsman” is the title of the
movie. It’s a movie of intrigues which aims
at enlightening people on the challenges of
African migrants. The film, which press
preview was held penutimate Wednesday, at
O ’jez Chinese Restaurant, in Surulere, by the
agency is an eye-opener for desperate
travellers who,overwhelmed by the desire to
travel, disregards the experiences of others
and embark on such trips.
Mr Ibu
Shot mainly in Berlin and Okigwe, Nigeria,
with the collaboration of German artists and
the German University of Art, Braunschweig,
The Champion Sportsman tells a gripping
story of Okoro, a Nigerian who “sells all his
properties, and with the proceeds, buys a
false passport with visa and travelled to
Berlin, Germany.
On arrival, his initial plan to stay only six
months and make as much money, get
subsumed by language problems, cultural
differences, racial psychologies, socio-
economic hardship as well as a deportation
process ”.
As he finds himself in a dilemma, Okoro must
decide whether to give up or confront the
Europe that is quickly becoming a boxing
ring for unprepared immigrants from Africa.
Featuring such Nollywood stars as John
Okafor (a.k.a Mr. Ibu), Patience Ozokwo,
Sandra Achums, and some German artistes,
The Champion Sportsman a 115- minutes film
in English, German, Igbo and pidgin, was shot
in July and August last year. The film reveals
the typical cliches of Europe in Africa which
cause immigrants to arrive in their desired
country unprepared to all obstacles. It
questions the typical European attitudes
towards
Angelina returns to refugees
Angelina Jolie never
takes a day off.
She's gone straight from
filming to a charity trip.
This time, she returned to
Ecuador to visit with
refugees and check up
on their condition.
"I wanted to come back and meet with
vulnerable people and focus on violence
against women and unaccompanied minors,"
Jolie said.
Angie, who is a United Nations Goodwill
Ambassador, spent time at a daycare center
run by the Women's Federation of
Sucumbios and talked with families displaced
from conflict in Colombia eight years ago. "I
am so happy to be able to reconnect with
some familiar faces, refugees I had met with
during my 2002 trip," Jolie said.
takes a day off.
She's gone straight from
filming to a charity trip.
This time, she returned to
Ecuador to visit with
refugees and check up
on their condition.
"I wanted to come back and meet with
vulnerable people and focus on violence
against women and unaccompanied minors,"
Jolie said.
Angie, who is a United Nations Goodwill
Ambassador, spent time at a daycare center
run by the Women's Federation of
Sucumbios and talked with families displaced
from conflict in Colombia eight years ago. "I
am so happy to be able to reconnect with
some familiar faces, refugees I had met with
during my 2002 trip," Jolie said.
Justin Bieber to benefit oil spill victims
Justin Bieber is showing
his charitable side this
week by lending his
support to the BP oil spill
victims.
He's just one of many
celebrities who have
attached themselves to a telethon on
Monday to benefit victims of the Gulf of
Mexico oil spill.
Other stars who will appear on the special
two-hour edition of Larry King Live: Cameron
Diaz, Ted Danson, Lenny Kravitz, Randy
Jackson, Jenny McCarthy, Tim McGraw ,
Alyssa Milano, Robert Redford, Ian
Somerhalder, Melania and Ivanka Trump,
Victoria Principal, Edward James Olmos, Pete
Wentz , as well as a performance by Sting.
Justin Bieber Loves to Google Himself
Ryan Seacrest will host a special online
"Social Suite" for those viewers participating
via Facebook and Twitter.
his charitable side this
week by lending his
support to the BP oil spill
victims.
He's just one of many
celebrities who have
attached themselves to a telethon on
Monday to benefit victims of the Gulf of
Mexico oil spill.
Other stars who will appear on the special
two-hour edition of Larry King Live: Cameron
Diaz, Ted Danson, Lenny Kravitz, Randy
Jackson, Jenny McCarthy, Tim McGraw ,
Alyssa Milano, Robert Redford, Ian
Somerhalder, Melania and Ivanka Trump,
Victoria Principal, Edward James Olmos, Pete
Wentz , as well as a performance by Sting.
Justin Bieber Loves to Google Himself
Ryan Seacrest will host a special online
"Social Suite" for those viewers participating
via Facebook and Twitter.
AEG pays $ 1 million for Jackson Memorial
Taxpayers won't have to
shell out any money for
Michael Jackson's pricy
memorial last year!
According to TMZ, Michael
Jackson's estate and AEG
have agreed to pay the
City of Los Angeles $1 million to cover the
cost of the MJ memorial last year.
shell out any money for
Michael Jackson's pricy
memorial last year!
According to TMZ, Michael
Jackson's estate and AEG
have agreed to pay the
City of Los Angeles $1 million to cover the
cost of the MJ memorial last year.
Jesse James creeping so close to Sandra
Since everyone in
California hates Jesse
James' guts, he's going
to give Texas a shot.
According to Us
Magazine, James has
decided to permanently
move to Austin, Texas, where Sandra Bullock
also happens to own a home.
At a custody hearing today in Orange
County, his attorney John Schilling confirmed
that Jesse is permanently moving to Austin
"at the end of the month."
California hates Jesse
James' guts, he's going
to give Texas a shot.
According to Us
Magazine, James has
decided to permanently
move to Austin, Texas, where Sandra Bullock
also happens to own a home.
At a custody hearing today in Orange
County, his attorney John Schilling confirmed
that Jesse is permanently moving to Austin
"at the end of the month."
Eminem defends gay marriage
CONTROVERSIAL rapper EMINEM has
defended gay marriage.
The outspoken star, famed for his
homophobic lyrics, appears to have
had a change of heart in his old age.
Eminem, real name Marshall Mathers,
said: "I think if two people love each
other, then what the hell?
"I think everyone should have the
chance to be equally miserable."
He added: "I think I've calmed down a
bit. My overall look on things is a lot
more mature than it used to be."
Eminem has even agreed to alter his
anti-gay lyrics during his performance
at Wireless with D12 this summer to
prevent gay rights campaigners
protesting.
New album Recovery is released June
21.
defended gay marriage.
The outspoken star, famed for his
homophobic lyrics, appears to have
had a change of heart in his old age.
Eminem, real name Marshall Mathers,
said: "I think if two people love each
other, then what the hell?
"I think everyone should have the
chance to be equally miserable."
He added: "I think I've calmed down a
bit. My overall look on things is a lot
more mature than it used to be."
Eminem has even agreed to alter his
anti-gay lyrics during his performance
at Wireless with D12 this summer to
prevent gay rights campaigners
protesting.
New album Recovery is released June
21.
Megan's pout is not so Fox-y
MEGAN FOX showed off her cracking
figure as she hit the LA premiere for
new flick Jonah Hex.
The Hollywood star looked ravishing as
she stepped out in a daringly-low cut
blood red frock teamed with
skyscraper heels and a black clutch
bag.
But the Transformers actress was
snapped with an unfortunate
expression on her face, making her lips
look twice the size they normally are.
Not that anyone was focusing above
the neck.
figure as she hit the LA premiere for
new flick Jonah Hex.
The Hollywood star looked ravishing as
she stepped out in a daringly-low cut
blood red frock teamed with
skyscraper heels and a black clutch
bag.
But the Transformers actress was
snapped with an unfortunate
expression on her face, making her lips
look twice the size they normally are.
Not that anyone was focusing above
the neck.
Karen's caffeine buzz
DOCTOR Who star Karen Gillan looks
like a real honey in this bee-style
yellow and black striped top... and
that cup of coffee no doubt kept her
buzzing, too.
The flame-haired 5ft 11ins Scot is
known for her short skirts as kissogram
Amy Pond in the show.
And our picture proves she likes to
show off her legs in real life too.
Doctor Who is on at 6.40pm tonight on
BBC One.
like a real honey in this bee-style
yellow and black striped top... and
that cup of coffee no doubt kept her
buzzing, too.
The flame-haired 5ft 11ins Scot is
known for her short skirts as kissogram
Amy Pond in the show.
And our picture proves she likes to
show off her legs in real life too.
Doctor Who is on at 6.40pm tonight on
BBC One.
Marrisa banned Ads too sexy
A Guitar Hero advert starring MARISA
MILLER which was banned for being
too sexy has surfaced online.
The commercial, based on a scene
from TOM CRUISE film Risky Business,
never made it to air as telly bosses
deemed it too raunchy.
Fear not - we've got our mitts on it and
you can check it out below.
Marisa strums her guitar while dressed
in barely-there lingerie and ends up on
a couch kicking her heels into the air.
She also bangs the drums in a pink bra.
Her Victoria's Secret teammate HEIDI
KLUM filmed a similar ad but wore a
man's shirt which was considered
more appropriate for a TV audience.
We know which one we prefer.
MILLER which was banned for being
too sexy has surfaced online.
The commercial, based on a scene
from TOM CRUISE film Risky Business,
never made it to air as telly bosses
deemed it too raunchy.
Fear not - we've got our mitts on it and
you can check it out below.
Marisa strums her guitar while dressed
in barely-there lingerie and ends up on
a couch kicking her heels into the air.
She also bangs the drums in a pink bra.
Her Victoria's Secret teammate HEIDI
KLUM filmed a similar ad but wore a
man's shirt which was considered
more appropriate for a TV audience.
We know which one we prefer.
Is this what Butler saw?
SWORDSMAN GERARD BUTLER got
"reacquainted" with LINDSAY LOHAN
at a recent Hollywood bash.
The Scot and the wild child famously
locked lips at a shindig in Morocco a
few months back and the pair got up
close and personal at a do in Beverly
Hills last week.
An eyewitness said: "They arrived at
the party separately. When they saw
each other they got together and
embraced.
"As the afternoon wore on, they
became more and more friendly and
eventually one thing led to another
and they left together.
"Friends said
they went
off to a
hotel. They
were all
over each
other at the
party, really
not leaving
each other's
sides."
However,
there was no sign of actor Gerard when
Lohan hit the shops in LA on Thursday,
flashing the flesh in an odd backless
number.
Fellow countryman Butler is an
impressive womaniser. He's been
linked to some of Tinseltown's most
scorching women including JENNIFER
ANISTON, CAMERON DIAZ and JESSICA
SIMPSON.
What a Lord.
"reacquainted" with LINDSAY LOHAN
at a recent Hollywood bash.
The Scot and the wild child famously
locked lips at a shindig in Morocco a
few months back and the pair got up
close and personal at a do in Beverly
Hills last week.
An eyewitness said: "They arrived at
the party separately. When they saw
each other they got together and
embraced.
"As the afternoon wore on, they
became more and more friendly and
eventually one thing led to another
and they left together.
"Friends said
they went
off to a
hotel. They
were all
over each
other at the
party, really
not leaving
each other's
sides."
However,
there was no sign of actor Gerard when
Lohan hit the shops in LA on Thursday,
flashing the flesh in an odd backless
number.
Fellow countryman Butler is an
impressive womaniser. He's been
linked to some of Tinseltown's most
scorching women including JENNIFER
ANISTON, CAMERON DIAZ and JESSICA
SIMPSON.
What a Lord.
it's angel Doll-ight
PUSSYCAT Doll NICOLE SCHERZINGER is
the cat's whiskers as she opens her
wrappings ... to reveal a heavenly
topping.
The US singer,
31 - whose
sweetheart is
British
Formula 1
driver LEWIS
HAMILTON -
whipped up
an instant
treat with a
glimpse of her
tasty bikini on a modelling shoot.
Brit hero Lewis, 25, is top of the F1
leaderboard after a stunning win in
Canada last week.
We bet that's made his angel
delighted!
the cat's whiskers as she opens her
wrappings ... to reveal a heavenly
topping.
The US singer,
31 - whose
sweetheart is
British
Formula 1
driver LEWIS
HAMILTON -
whipped up
an instant
treat with a
glimpse of her
tasty bikini on a modelling shoot.
Brit hero Lewis, 25, is top of the F1
leaderboard after a stunning win in
Canada last week.
We bet that's made his angel
delighted!
Did a surgeon transform' er?
WHAT the Fox happened to Megan's
face?
The Transformers beauty turned up at a
movie premiere with utterly smooth,
mask-like features.
The 24-year-old's appearance sparked
speculation she has had Botox, while a
slight trout pout suggested collagen lip
jabs.
Fans were also stunned as the once-
curvy natural beauty's plunging
neckline showed off a rigid, gravity-
defying bust.
One red-carpet onlooker said: "Megan
looked gorgeous - everyone's jaws hit
the floor. But her boobs didn't look
natural."
The American once known for her girl-
next-door charm was in Los Angeles
for Thursday's premiere of her western
Jonah Hex.
A Hollywood source said: "Megan was
so naturally sexy - that's why she was
considered the best-looking woman
on Earth. But recently she's looked too
skinny, stiff and a little fake."
Transformers director MICHAEL BAY
ordered Megan to regain her curves for
this year's sequel after telling her she
was too skinny, leading to a furious
bust-up.
It has since been announced that she
will not appear in the third movie.
face?
The Transformers beauty turned up at a
movie premiere with utterly smooth,
mask-like features.
The 24-year-old's appearance sparked
speculation she has had Botox, while a
slight trout pout suggested collagen lip
jabs.
Fans were also stunned as the once-
curvy natural beauty's plunging
neckline showed off a rigid, gravity-
defying bust.
One red-carpet onlooker said: "Megan
looked gorgeous - everyone's jaws hit
the floor. But her boobs didn't look
natural."
The American once known for her girl-
next-door charm was in Los Angeles
for Thursday's premiere of her western
Jonah Hex.
A Hollywood source said: "Megan was
so naturally sexy - that's why she was
considered the best-looking woman
on Earth. But recently she's looked too
skinny, stiff and a little fake."
Transformers director MICHAEL BAY
ordered Megan to regain her curves for
this year's sequel after telling her she
was too skinny, leading to a furious
bust-up.
It has since been announced that she
will not appear in the third movie.
Cherry Perry looking Merry
KATY PERRY's Chapstick isn't the only
cherry fun she's got going on here.
The saucy singer, 25 - who always
looks like she gets her five a day - was
spotted in the plunging halterneck
dress at a photoshoot in Toronto.
Katy, engaged to RUSSELL BRAND, 35,
is in Canada for tomorrow's MMVA
music awards, where she's up for a
gong. That would be the cherry on the
cake.
cherry fun she's got going on here.
The saucy singer, 25 - who always
looks like she gets her five a day - was
spotted in the plunging halterneck
dress at a photoshoot in Toronto.
Katy, engaged to RUSSELL BRAND, 35,
is in Canada for tomorrow's MMVA
music awards, where she's up for a
gong. That would be the cherry on the
cake.
Gavin likes a Mone
GAVIN HENSON has had his first night
out since his split with CHARLOTTE
CHURCH.
He attended SIR RICHARD BRANSON's
pre-Wimbledon party and was on best
behaviour before leaving with new pal
MICHELLE MONE, founder of
undercrackers firm Ultimo.
The Cuprinol-tanned rugby hunk mixed
with stars including AMELLE BERRABAH,
and her SUGABABES bandmates JADE
EWEN and HEIDI RANGE, at London's
posh Kensington Roof Gardens.
Heidi did a MARILYN MONROE as her
dress blew up, while RUSSELL BRAND
and JONATHAN ROSS made a striking
entrance in Wossy's vintage car.
Gavin and Michelle - who met after
appearing in reality TV show 71
Degrees North - ducked out after just a
few Pimms.
He is getting over his split with singer
Charlotte by focusing on rugby and
their children DEXTER and RUBY.
Gavin said: "All I'm doing is training
early in the morning and spending the
rest of the day with my kids.
"I have land and animals - sheep, pigs,
chickens, dogs - and the kids love to
feed the animals."
out since his split with CHARLOTTE
CHURCH.
He attended SIR RICHARD BRANSON's
pre-Wimbledon party and was on best
behaviour before leaving with new pal
MICHELLE MONE, founder of
undercrackers firm Ultimo.
The Cuprinol-tanned rugby hunk mixed
with stars including AMELLE BERRABAH,
and her SUGABABES bandmates JADE
EWEN and HEIDI RANGE, at London's
posh Kensington Roof Gardens.
Heidi did a MARILYN MONROE as her
dress blew up, while RUSSELL BRAND
and JONATHAN ROSS made a striking
entrance in Wossy's vintage car.
Gavin and Michelle - who met after
appearing in reality TV show 71
Degrees North - ducked out after just a
few Pimms.
He is getting over his split with singer
Charlotte by focusing on rugby and
their children DEXTER and RUBY.
Gavin said: "All I'm doing is training
early in the morning and spending the
rest of the day with my kids.
"I have land and animals - sheep, pigs,
chickens, dogs - and the kids love to
feed the animals."
Nadine keeps it reel
NADINE COYLE celebrated her 25th
birthday with a good old-fashioned
Irish party.
The Girls Aloud singer snubbed
Hollywood glamour to mark the
occasion with sausage rolls and
karaoke in her own bar on Thursday.
Nadine was joined by mum LILLIAN
and dad NIALL in Nadine's Irish Mist in
Newport Beach, Los Angeles.
Guests knocked back pints of Guinness
and tequila shots and instead of
expensive champagne, her pals
necked bottles of £6 sparkling wine.
A reveller said: "It was a great craic -
just like a party at home. Everyone was
Irish dancing, there was karaoke and
certainly a lot of alcohol."
But with her American footballer
boyfriend JASON BELL on her arm,
Nadine still added a bit of glamour to
proceedings.
She wore a sexy black mini-dress and
her cake was in the shape of a Louis
Vuitton handbag.
birthday with a good old-fashioned
Irish party.
The Girls Aloud singer snubbed
Hollywood glamour to mark the
occasion with sausage rolls and
karaoke in her own bar on Thursday.
Nadine was joined by mum LILLIAN
and dad NIALL in Nadine's Irish Mist in
Newport Beach, Los Angeles.
Guests knocked back pints of Guinness
and tequila shots and instead of
expensive champagne, her pals
necked bottles of £6 sparkling wine.
A reveller said: "It was a great craic -
just like a party at home. Everyone was
Irish dancing, there was karaoke and
certainly a lot of alcohol."
But with her American footballer
boyfriend JASON BELL on her arm,
Nadine still added a bit of glamour to
proceedings.
She wore a sexy black mini-dress and
her cake was in the shape of a Louis
Vuitton handbag.
Eminem on Marriage
Eminem is a new man. Not only is he
toning down the violent rap lyrics in
his new album Recovery, he's
officially a supporter of gay marriages.
"I think if two people love each other,
then what the hell?" he told NY Times.
"I think that everyone should have the
chance to be equally miserable, if they
want."
"It’s the new tolerant me!" says the
rapper.
Em admits that his new album is much tamer than what we're
used to. "Shady still exists," he says.
"But I don’t think the subjects on this record call for, you know,
bring the chainsaws and axes out and murder everyone on this
record. There was so much stuff like that off the last record that I
felt like I was starting to run it into the ground. I think consciously I
went in a different direction with this record."
But he certainly doesn't regret anything he's said in the past.
"Anything I ’ve ever said, I certainly was feeling at the time," he tells
The Times. "But I think I’ve calmed down a bit. My overall look on
things is a lot more mature than it used to be."
Eminem has been sober for two years now and we're liking the
new Em.
toning down the violent rap lyrics in
his new album Recovery, he's
officially a supporter of gay marriages.
"I think if two people love each other,
then what the hell?" he told NY Times.
"I think that everyone should have the
chance to be equally miserable, if they
want."
"It’s the new tolerant me!" says the
rapper.
Em admits that his new album is much tamer than what we're
used to. "Shady still exists," he says.
"But I don’t think the subjects on this record call for, you know,
bring the chainsaws and axes out and murder everyone on this
record. There was so much stuff like that off the last record that I
felt like I was starting to run it into the ground. I think consciously I
went in a different direction with this record."
But he certainly doesn't regret anything he's said in the past.
"Anything I ’ve ever said, I certainly was feeling at the time," he tells
The Times. "But I think I’ve calmed down a bit. My overall look on
things is a lot more mature than it used to be."
Eminem has been sober for two years now and we're liking the
new Em.
Joe Jackson sues AEG
Joe Jackson is desperate for some
cash so he's going after AEG, the
company behind Michael Jackson's
This Is It concert.
Joe is accusing AEG of "unlawful
practice of corporate medicine,"
claiming they paid Dr. Conrad Murray
to give Michael the lethal dose of
propofol, which resulted in his death
last June.
Joe Jackson: Michael's Mom is Responsible for Her Death
The complaint states: "AEG hired, directed, controlled and
demanded Dr. Conrad Murray, a medical doctor, to medicate
Michael Jackson, provide Jackson with dangerous medical services
and to give Michael Jackson controlled substances and other drugs
without providing cardiopulmonary resuscitation equipment or
nursing assistance as it had promised in writing it would provide,"
He's also claiming that AEG failed to provide Dr. Murray with a
registered nurse and proper equipment, as stated in Michael's AEG
contract, "AEG shall provide Dr. Murray for his use during the term
with medical equipment requested by Dr. Murray to assist him in
performing the services as approved by AEG."
No word on how much Joe is suing AEG for, but he makes a good
point. We just hope the money goes to Michael's estate instead of
Joe's pocket.
cash so he's going after AEG, the
company behind Michael Jackson's
This Is It concert.
Joe is accusing AEG of "unlawful
practice of corporate medicine,"
claiming they paid Dr. Conrad Murray
to give Michael the lethal dose of
propofol, which resulted in his death
last June.
Joe Jackson: Michael's Mom is Responsible for Her Death
The complaint states: "AEG hired, directed, controlled and
demanded Dr. Conrad Murray, a medical doctor, to medicate
Michael Jackson, provide Jackson with dangerous medical services
and to give Michael Jackson controlled substances and other drugs
without providing cardiopulmonary resuscitation equipment or
nursing assistance as it had promised in writing it would provide,"
He's also claiming that AEG failed to provide Dr. Murray with a
registered nurse and proper equipment, as stated in Michael's AEG
contract, "AEG shall provide Dr. Murray for his use during the term
with medical equipment requested by Dr. Murray to assist him in
performing the services as approved by AEG."
No word on how much Joe is suing AEG for, but he makes a good
point. We just hope the money goes to Michael's estate instead of
Joe's pocket.
Hot in Cleveland breaks record
Betty White is good for business!
Her new sitcom Hot In Cleveland
on TV Land got off to an extraordinary
start for its premiere making network
history as the highest rated and most
watched telecast ever!
5 million viewers tuned in to watch
“ Hot in Cleveland,” revolves around
three fabulous best friends from LA –
novelist Melanie Moretti (Bertinelli),
eye-brow archer to the stars Joy Scroggs (Leeves) and former soap
star Victoria Chase (Malick) – who find their lives changed forever
when their plane, headed for Paris, makes an unexpected landing.
When the friends discover that they are hot in Cleveland, they
decide to stay. Starting over, they rent a house that happens to
come with a very feisty caretaker (White).
We'd watch anything Betty's in, she's so freaking adorable! Did you
tune in? What did you think of the show?
Her new sitcom Hot In Cleveland
on TV Land got off to an extraordinary
start for its premiere making network
history as the highest rated and most
watched telecast ever!
5 million viewers tuned in to watch
“ Hot in Cleveland,” revolves around
three fabulous best friends from LA –
novelist Melanie Moretti (Bertinelli),
eye-brow archer to the stars Joy Scroggs (Leeves) and former soap
star Victoria Chase (Malick) – who find their lives changed forever
when their plane, headed for Paris, makes an unexpected landing.
When the friends discover that they are hot in Cleveland, they
decide to stay. Starting over, they rent a house that happens to
come with a very feisty caretaker (White).
We'd watch anything Betty's in, she's so freaking adorable! Did you
tune in? What did you think of the show?
Sandra swears off men
Sandra Bullock has been through
such hell with Jesse James, that
sources say she’s sworn herself off
men completely.
According to Popeater.com, friends of
the actress fear she ’ll never be able to
fully open up to anyone again after the
way James broke her heart and ruined
their marriage.
Sandra Bullock Locks Lips With
Scarlett Johansson
A friend of Bullock’s tells them she’s always been a little wary of
men, but the past few months has scarred her for life.
"Sandy has always had trust issues with men. However, with
Jesse, she finally thought she had found the man who would
always have her back. Someone she could trust to protect her
heart. ” said a friend.
Sandra Bullock Jokes About Personal Life
“Sandy thought the relationship was so strong that she even
brought a child into their lives. After what Jess has done to her, I
doubt she will ever be able to fully trust a man again."
We can’t imagine how Sandra feels right now, but in a way, little
Louis is like a savior! She’s probably so happy she has him to share
her life with right now. And hopefully, in the future, she’ll be able to
trust someone again.
We’re sure there are plenty of men out there who would die to be
with someone like her!
such hell with Jesse James, that
sources say she’s sworn herself off
men completely.
According to Popeater.com, friends of
the actress fear she ’ll never be able to
fully open up to anyone again after the
way James broke her heart and ruined
their marriage.
Sandra Bullock Locks Lips With
Scarlett Johansson
A friend of Bullock’s tells them she’s always been a little wary of
men, but the past few months has scarred her for life.
"Sandy has always had trust issues with men. However, with
Jesse, she finally thought she had found the man who would
always have her back. Someone she could trust to protect her
heart. ” said a friend.
Sandra Bullock Jokes About Personal Life
“Sandy thought the relationship was so strong that she even
brought a child into their lives. After what Jess has done to her, I
doubt she will ever be able to fully trust a man again."
We can’t imagine how Sandra feels right now, but in a way, little
Louis is like a savior! She’s probably so happy she has him to share
her life with right now. And hopefully, in the future, she’ll be able to
trust someone again.
We’re sure there are plenty of men out there who would die to be
with someone like her!
GaGa's pricy Lollapallooza demands
Lady Gaga is such a huge star that
she pretty much gets what she wants!
She ’s set to perform at the upcoming
Lollapalooza Festival in Chicago, and
apparently her set alone cost the
production a pretty penny.
Lady Gaga Steals Her Sister's
Thunder
According to MTV, Gaga demanded a
massive stage for her performance
that takes place in August in Grant Park. Lollapalooza founder (Janes
Addiction frontman) Perry Farrell tells MTV, "I actually said, 'Who's
the chick with all the clothes, because this is my festival and she's
got [a lot of clothes racks]. We've got one rack. '”
Farrell continued, “But she had this sweet smile. And she was real
mischievous, so I liked her. She asked for a giant stage, so we
spent like $100,000 to give her a giant stage. We spent close to
$150,000 to house the production she's gonna do. And I say yeah,
let's do it."
she pretty much gets what she wants!
She ’s set to perform at the upcoming
Lollapalooza Festival in Chicago, and
apparently her set alone cost the
production a pretty penny.
Lady Gaga Steals Her Sister's
Thunder
According to MTV, Gaga demanded a
massive stage for her performance
that takes place in August in Grant Park. Lollapalooza founder (Janes
Addiction frontman) Perry Farrell tells MTV, "I actually said, 'Who's
the chick with all the clothes, because this is my festival and she's
got [a lot of clothes racks]. We've got one rack. '”
Farrell continued, “But she had this sweet smile. And she was real
mischievous, so I liked her. She asked for a giant stage, so we
spent like $100,000 to give her a giant stage. We spent close to
$150,000 to house the production she's gonna do. And I say yeah,
let's do it."
Lindsay Lohan test negative for alcohol
According to Lindsay Lohan's
attorney Shawn Chapman Holley, Lilo
was completely sober the night her
SCRAM bracelet went off.
"A urine test taken shortly after the
alert showed a negative result for
alcohol," Holley told People magazine.
The DA's office previously said the
alert was "an alcohol-related violation."
So what triggered the SCRAM bracelet
to go off? According to Lindsay’s parents, she spilled a drink on
herself. But according to reps at SCRAM, that's impossible.
Either way Lindsay had to post bail for the second time in a month
after her SCRAM went off and she still has to undergo random drug
and alcohol testing. Seems like this Lindsay drama is never ending!
More details coming soon...
attorney Shawn Chapman Holley, Lilo
was completely sober the night her
SCRAM bracelet went off.
"A urine test taken shortly after the
alert showed a negative result for
alcohol," Holley told People magazine.
The DA's office previously said the
alert was "an alcohol-related violation."
So what triggered the SCRAM bracelet
to go off? According to Lindsay’s parents, she spilled a drink on
herself. But according to reps at SCRAM, that's impossible.
Either way Lindsay had to post bail for the second time in a month
after her SCRAM went off and she still has to undergo random drug
and alcohol testing. Seems like this Lindsay drama is never ending!
More details coming soon...
Gary Coleman Cremated
Gary Coleman missed out on a
proper funeral, but he was finally
cremated yesterday.
Gary, who died of a brain
hemorrhage last month following a
fall at his home, was put to rest
during a quiet, simple proceeding at a
mortuary in Sandy, Salt Lake City.
Lawyer Robert Jeffs – who was
ordered to oversee Gary’s estate –
said: “The proceeding was conducted in accordance with Mr.
Coleman’s desires as expressed in his will that no funeral service,
wake or other ceremony memorialize his passing.”
As Hollyscoop previously reported, his former agent Victor Perillo
is making sure that Gary gets a proper memorial.
He said, “I’m planning a proper memorial for the industry to say
goodbye to one of the greatest child actors ever,” Perillo says. “I’m
planning it with NBC and Norman Lear and it will be something for
everyone. ”
Rest in peace Gary, you'll be missed!
proper funeral, but he was finally
cremated yesterday.
Gary, who died of a brain
hemorrhage last month following a
fall at his home, was put to rest
during a quiet, simple proceeding at a
mortuary in Sandy, Salt Lake City.
Lawyer Robert Jeffs – who was
ordered to oversee Gary’s estate –
said: “The proceeding was conducted in accordance with Mr.
Coleman’s desires as expressed in his will that no funeral service,
wake or other ceremony memorialize his passing.”
As Hollyscoop previously reported, his former agent Victor Perillo
is making sure that Gary gets a proper memorial.
He said, “I’m planning a proper memorial for the industry to say
goodbye to one of the greatest child actors ever,” Perillo says. “I’m
planning it with NBC and Norman Lear and it will be something for
everyone. ”
Rest in peace Gary, you'll be missed!
Resident Evil:After life
Milla Jovovich is back kicking ass in
Resident Evil: Afterlife.
This Paul W.S. Anderson-directed
fourth edition of the franchise
promises more action than ever, and,
in what seems to have become a
given nowadays, it ’s in 3D.
Here’s the plot according to
IMDb.com: In a world ravaged by a
virus infection, turning its victims into
the Undead, Alice (Jovovich), continues on her journey to find
survivors and lead them to safety. Her deadly battle with the
Umbrella Corporation reaches new heights, but Alice gets some
unexpected help from an old friend. A new lead that promises a
safe haven from the Undead takes them to Los Angeles, but when
they arrive the city is overrun by thousands of Undead - and Alice
and her comrades are about to step into a deadly trap.
The film is due out September 10th. Check out the trailer below:
Resident Evil: Afterlife.
This Paul W.S. Anderson-directed
fourth edition of the franchise
promises more action than ever, and,
in what seems to have become a
given nowadays, it ’s in 3D.
Here’s the plot according to
IMDb.com: In a world ravaged by a
virus infection, turning its victims into
the Undead, Alice (Jovovich), continues on her journey to find
survivors and lead them to safety. Her deadly battle with the
Umbrella Corporation reaches new heights, but Alice gets some
unexpected help from an old friend. A new lead that promises a
safe haven from the Undead takes them to Los Angeles, but when
they arrive the city is overrun by thousands of Undead - and Alice
and her comrades are about to step into a deadly trap.
The film is due out September 10th. Check out the trailer below:
America Ferrera is engaged!
Congrats to America Ferrera who is
engaged! The Ugly Betty star is
engaged to her longtime boyfriend
Ryan Piers Williams. Her rep
confirmed the happy news to People.
She looked absolutely dynamite at the
Edinburgh Film Festival screening of
The Illusionist in Scotland yesterday
and showed off her new sparkler.
Ugly Betty Gets Engaged
Ferrera, 26, first met Williams at USC when he cast her in his
student film. Is that adorable or what? Guess she can credit her
husband-to-be with really discovering her!
Congrats to America and her new fiancé!
engaged! The Ugly Betty star is
engaged to her longtime boyfriend
Ryan Piers Williams. Her rep
confirmed the happy news to People.
She looked absolutely dynamite at the
Edinburgh Film Festival screening of
The Illusionist in Scotland yesterday
and showed off her new sparkler.
Ugly Betty Gets Engaged
Ferrera, 26, first met Williams at USC when he cast her in his
student film. Is that adorable or what? Guess she can credit her
husband-to-be with really discovering her!
Congrats to America and her new fiancé!
Why i speak pidgin on radio-Smart Oshoko
Having listened to his pidgin English radio
programme, one would think Smart Oshoko can’t
speak Queen’s English. In this interview, Oshoko
who is a presenter and musician, spoke about his
experiences in tourism, art, culture and
broadcasting.
How I started Na so I see am
I didn’t not start the programme in 2007. The old
Daily Times and Lagos Weekend had severally
published my stories since the 1980s. There is
nothing really special about me. I am an ordinary
Nigerian, may be more Nigerian than most
Nigerians because of my vast interactions and
relationships with people from different ethnic
backgrounds in Nigeria.
As for my programme, Na So I See am which
comes up on Star FM 101.5 every Saturday from
3.30 pm and on MITV by 9.00 pm on Fridays, people love it
because they see their true reflections in it. It is about their culture,
their music, and their language. Pidgin English is the language of
the ordinary Nigerians who form majority of the population. So
Pidgin English, the language of ordinary people, is part of what
makes Na So I See am special. It is about our culture. It is about
people ’s identity.
About Na So I See am
We are not just praising any government. We are highlighting the
good works some of them are doing. Take Fashola of Lagos State
for instance. Who does not approve of, or extol Fashola ’s
government? However, I do criticize government when they are
wrong or are not performing. Some governors are doing well,
and Na So I See am is happy with them. Nevertheless, I am
naturally a very positive person. I look for the good in everything
or person I meet.
Focus of the programme
Some people think that the ordinary people are not important
when talking about development in a country. But this is a wrong
notion. The ordinary people are as important as the leaders. That
is why wise leaders stay close to the ordinary people and carry
them along in every important thing they do. Other leaders only
come close to these people only when it is election time, but that
is not a good strategy.
My own contribution to nation building is to help forge a friendly
and sustainable relationship between leaders and the grassroots
population. That is why I am inviting all the 36 governors in
Nigeria to come one after the other to Na So I see Am to speak to
the people in the language they can best understand. And that is
done in pidgin English. ”
My accent and background
When I speak, I want people to know I am an African. I don’t
speak like Oyinbo (white people). I don’t know how to pretend to
be what I am not. I am from Obalikwo in Bebilisang near the
Obudu Cattle Ranch.
Tourism and me
I am a tourist because I travel a lot. Often I travel to Niger
Republic, Libya and other West African countries. I see giraffes in
their Game Reserves right in the deserts. I see antelopes too.
During hot season when people are suffering from heat, in Obudu
my hometown, people always feel very cold. Ice blocks even fall
there. The Ranch is right in Obalikwo my village. Everyone who
loves nature and tourism should visit Obudu. It is a wonderful
place.
Place of birth
I was born in Kaduna. I grew up there too. I had my primary
education there. Kaduna people are quite friendly. Never mind the
religious crises around the area, which is usually instigated by
some politicians.
Languages spoken
I speak Hausa, Yoruba, Igala, Bishiri, and I am learning to speak
Igbo too. My wife is teaching me Igbo. She is from Cross River,
but she speaks Igbo fluently. When I go to Niger Republic, I
communicate with the local people in Hausa.
I compose the jingles, sing and produce them. It’s not about the
size or amount of noise a company makes. It’s about talent. It’s
about achieving results. I create new things each time my
programme is on air. And as a musician, my talent always rubs
off on my programme.
Vision
I want to use Na So I See am to put Nigeria on the world culture
and tourism map. My second aspiration is to get all state
governors in Nigeria to sit down with me on Na So I See am and
speak to the ordinary Nigerian people in Pidgin English.
programme, one would think Smart Oshoko can’t
speak Queen’s English. In this interview, Oshoko
who is a presenter and musician, spoke about his
experiences in tourism, art, culture and
broadcasting.
How I started Na so I see am
I didn’t not start the programme in 2007. The old
Daily Times and Lagos Weekend had severally
published my stories since the 1980s. There is
nothing really special about me. I am an ordinary
Nigerian, may be more Nigerian than most
Nigerians because of my vast interactions and
relationships with people from different ethnic
backgrounds in Nigeria.
As for my programme, Na So I See am which
comes up on Star FM 101.5 every Saturday from
3.30 pm and on MITV by 9.00 pm on Fridays, people love it
because they see their true reflections in it. It is about their culture,
their music, and their language. Pidgin English is the language of
the ordinary Nigerians who form majority of the population. So
Pidgin English, the language of ordinary people, is part of what
makes Na So I See am special. It is about our culture. It is about
people ’s identity.
About Na So I See am
We are not just praising any government. We are highlighting the
good works some of them are doing. Take Fashola of Lagos State
for instance. Who does not approve of, or extol Fashola ’s
government? However, I do criticize government when they are
wrong or are not performing. Some governors are doing well,
and Na So I See am is happy with them. Nevertheless, I am
naturally a very positive person. I look for the good in everything
or person I meet.
Focus of the programme
Some people think that the ordinary people are not important
when talking about development in a country. But this is a wrong
notion. The ordinary people are as important as the leaders. That
is why wise leaders stay close to the ordinary people and carry
them along in every important thing they do. Other leaders only
come close to these people only when it is election time, but that
is not a good strategy.
My own contribution to nation building is to help forge a friendly
and sustainable relationship between leaders and the grassroots
population. That is why I am inviting all the 36 governors in
Nigeria to come one after the other to Na So I see Am to speak to
the people in the language they can best understand. And that is
done in pidgin English. ”
My accent and background
When I speak, I want people to know I am an African. I don’t
speak like Oyinbo (white people). I don’t know how to pretend to
be what I am not. I am from Obalikwo in Bebilisang near the
Obudu Cattle Ranch.
Tourism and me
I am a tourist because I travel a lot. Often I travel to Niger
Republic, Libya and other West African countries. I see giraffes in
their Game Reserves right in the deserts. I see antelopes too.
During hot season when people are suffering from heat, in Obudu
my hometown, people always feel very cold. Ice blocks even fall
there. The Ranch is right in Obalikwo my village. Everyone who
loves nature and tourism should visit Obudu. It is a wonderful
place.
Place of birth
I was born in Kaduna. I grew up there too. I had my primary
education there. Kaduna people are quite friendly. Never mind the
religious crises around the area, which is usually instigated by
some politicians.
Languages spoken
I speak Hausa, Yoruba, Igala, Bishiri, and I am learning to speak
Igbo too. My wife is teaching me Igbo. She is from Cross River,
but she speaks Igbo fluently. When I go to Niger Republic, I
communicate with the local people in Hausa.
I compose the jingles, sing and produce them. It’s not about the
size or amount of noise a company makes. It’s about talent. It’s
about achieving results. I create new things each time my
programme is on air. And as a musician, my talent always rubs
off on my programme.
Vision
I want to use Na So I See am to put Nigeria on the world culture
and tourism map. My second aspiration is to get all state
governors in Nigeria to sit down with me on Na So I See am and
speak to the ordinary Nigerian people in Pidgin English.
Fans angry with Mercy Johnson
Movie buffs, especially mothers and wives are currently
pissed and thoroughly disappointed with Nollywood
actress, Mercy Johnson. And the reason for their
seething anger, we reliably gathered has to do with Miss
Johnson ’s new-found passion of garbing in skimpy
attires and deliberate flaunting of her boobs in movies
and social engagements.
In fact, one of these women that attended a recent
Nollywood wedding with her husband and two children,
told us she hurriedly left the venue with her family, the
moment Johnson ‘invaded’ with her near-nude attire.
“We thought her cleavages will pop out of her skimpy
attire that revealed so much from her upper region.
When my family and I could no longer bear the ugly
sight, we hurriedly and angrily left the very colourful
wedding. My kids that used to see her as their role
model immediately discarded her. How can she come to
a social event garbed like that, knowing very well that she’s also a
role model to several youths in the society, who equally look up
to her.
In fact, in my household, we’ve also stopped watching her
movies, because of the skimpy things she’s fond of donning.”
Also speaking, another angry female fan of the Kogi State-born
actress accused Johnson of deliberately donning skimpy attires
on/off locations without regard for the womenfolk. “Are
Genevieve, Omotola, Monalisa, Oge, Funke and the rest of them
not top actresses, did we ever see them donning skimpy attires or
overtly flaunting and exposing their boobs, why is Mercy
Johnson ’s case very different”, asked this bitter lady. Fuming
further, she raged: “We are tired of Johnson’s ways of dressing.
She’s not representing us well as a role model. Enough of this her
boobs flaunting and skimpy attires, it’s now very disgusting and
debasing us.”
Meanwhile, a recent sms from another pissed fan, pleaded with
the controversial and still single thespian to desist from disgracing
the womenfolk with her new-found passion for skimpy wears.
“ We are tired of Mercy Johnson’s new dress sense. If you watch
her in movies, meet her at events or even buy papers to read,
you keep seeing her flaunting her boobs and deliberately revealing
parts of her body. We are tired of her insulting our sensibilities. Is
she the only Nigerian actress?
Well, my family and I have started boycotting any film that
features her, in our home. My kids are even complaining and that
makes it more disturbing. Please, help us beg her to stop now. If
she wants to go nude, let her do that within the confines of her
bedroom, and not in movies, social events or the pages of
magazines. Some of us have husbands and we do not want them
to begin to think otherwise because of Mercy Johnson. Enough of
this her madness, ” lambasted this mother, who incidentally
reached us from Johnson’s State, Kogi. A mischievous guy, who
called from London, pointed out that Johnson might end up
baring -it-all in movies with the way she is currently going.“I will
be happy to see Mercy bare-it-all in movies, since that is what she
enjoys doing these days in movies and real life. ”
Painfully too, a top filmmaker that spoke with us on the condition
of anonymity pooh-poohed Johnson, for disgracing them with
her near-nude wears and constant exposure of her cleavages in
movies and events, within and outside Nollywood. “Mercy’s case
is giving us a big concern in Nollywood. We still cannot fathom
what she wants to achieve with this constant and irresponsible
exposures. When she joined Nollywood a few years ago, she was
not like this... Very shy and humble, stardom has completely
changed her. But is she the first or only female star in Nollywood?
She should watch it before it backfires on her... ”
pissed and thoroughly disappointed with Nollywood
actress, Mercy Johnson. And the reason for their
seething anger, we reliably gathered has to do with Miss
Johnson ’s new-found passion of garbing in skimpy
attires and deliberate flaunting of her boobs in movies
and social engagements.
In fact, one of these women that attended a recent
Nollywood wedding with her husband and two children,
told us she hurriedly left the venue with her family, the
moment Johnson ‘invaded’ with her near-nude attire.
“We thought her cleavages will pop out of her skimpy
attire that revealed so much from her upper region.
When my family and I could no longer bear the ugly
sight, we hurriedly and angrily left the very colourful
wedding. My kids that used to see her as their role
model immediately discarded her. How can she come to
a social event garbed like that, knowing very well that she’s also a
role model to several youths in the society, who equally look up
to her.
In fact, in my household, we’ve also stopped watching her
movies, because of the skimpy things she’s fond of donning.”
Also speaking, another angry female fan of the Kogi State-born
actress accused Johnson of deliberately donning skimpy attires
on/off locations without regard for the womenfolk. “Are
Genevieve, Omotola, Monalisa, Oge, Funke and the rest of them
not top actresses, did we ever see them donning skimpy attires or
overtly flaunting and exposing their boobs, why is Mercy
Johnson ’s case very different”, asked this bitter lady. Fuming
further, she raged: “We are tired of Johnson’s ways of dressing.
She’s not representing us well as a role model. Enough of this her
boobs flaunting and skimpy attires, it’s now very disgusting and
debasing us.”
Meanwhile, a recent sms from another pissed fan, pleaded with
the controversial and still single thespian to desist from disgracing
the womenfolk with her new-found passion for skimpy wears.
“ We are tired of Mercy Johnson’s new dress sense. If you watch
her in movies, meet her at events or even buy papers to read,
you keep seeing her flaunting her boobs and deliberately revealing
parts of her body. We are tired of her insulting our sensibilities. Is
she the only Nigerian actress?
Well, my family and I have started boycotting any film that
features her, in our home. My kids are even complaining and that
makes it more disturbing. Please, help us beg her to stop now. If
she wants to go nude, let her do that within the confines of her
bedroom, and not in movies, social events or the pages of
magazines. Some of us have husbands and we do not want them
to begin to think otherwise because of Mercy Johnson. Enough of
this her madness, ” lambasted this mother, who incidentally
reached us from Johnson’s State, Kogi. A mischievous guy, who
called from London, pointed out that Johnson might end up
baring -it-all in movies with the way she is currently going.“I will
be happy to see Mercy bare-it-all in movies, since that is what she
enjoys doing these days in movies and real life. ”
Painfully too, a top filmmaker that spoke with us on the condition
of anonymity pooh-poohed Johnson, for disgracing them with
her near-nude wears and constant exposure of her cleavages in
movies and events, within and outside Nollywood. “Mercy’s case
is giving us a big concern in Nollywood. We still cannot fathom
what she wants to achieve with this constant and irresponsible
exposures. When she joined Nollywood a few years ago, she was
not like this... Very shy and humble, stardom has completely
changed her. But is she the first or only female star in Nollywood?
She should watch it before it backfires on her... ”
FITS in search of future instrumentalist/vocalist
A brand new and totally different kind of TV reality
contest, Fortune Instrumentalists Talent Show (FITS),
which is designed to allow established instrumentalists
assisted by professionals in the music industry train and
mentor budding talents to enable them harness their
potentials in mastering the performance, production and
marketing of their output in a 30-day intense training
camp, has berthed.
According to the prime movers and initiators, the idea of
FITS, came out of their review of the Nigerian
entertainment scene and the reality shows thereof,
which seems to always emphasize singing and dancing
abilities. “The advent of computer aided music is limiting
the need for professional development of instruments
playing abilities. FITS is conceived to bridge the gap by
promoting the role of instruments playing ability in
entertainment.
At FITS, individuals showcase their abilities in a national project
where youths from all regions are given a life time opportunity to
live out their dreams. All musical instruments, used and played in
any part of Nigeria are considered for qualification and eventual
selection of any potential participant. Vocalists are allowed to
participate to compliment the efforts of the instrumentalists. ”
Continuing, the organizers further explained that every season, a
female and a male musician with demonstrated instrument
playing abilities will be selected to act as the Queen and King of a
Groove that will be created in a natural setting for camping the
selected participants.
Shedding more light on the selection process, the organizers
disclosed that they are eight regional selection centres across the
country, to allow ease of access to the contestants. With a token
entry fee that is payable into any Afribank , a participant is given a
pass code to login into FITS registration portal to complete the
entry form. “Entry is open to anyone that can play an instrument
or with good vocals.” Selection centres for the forthcoming reality
show are: Lagos, Ibadan, Benin, Enugu, Abuja, Kaduna, Port-
Harcourt and Calabar.
Three female and three male contestants will be selected from
each venue to make up the 48 contestants that will head for FITS
Groove located in a remote natural setting “The camp is a typical
African village setting where there is a King and Queen whose
business in the camp is to mentor the 48 finalists that will
eventually make it. The training diet will enable them improve on
their skills as they are further tested and reduced in numbers to 36
contestants, after one week. ”
While at the camp, individual contestants will be engaged in
competition with a view to selecting the best hands on each type
of instrument. The Judges will be drawn from the best in the
music industry in Nigeria.
N6m and a record deal worth N5m with a prominent record
label, will be taken home by the overall winner. While N3m and
N1.5m, will be shared between the first and second runners up,
respectively. There will be lots of consolation prizes for the other
contestants.
contest, Fortune Instrumentalists Talent Show (FITS),
which is designed to allow established instrumentalists
assisted by professionals in the music industry train and
mentor budding talents to enable them harness their
potentials in mastering the performance, production and
marketing of their output in a 30-day intense training
camp, has berthed.
According to the prime movers and initiators, the idea of
FITS, came out of their review of the Nigerian
entertainment scene and the reality shows thereof,
which seems to always emphasize singing and dancing
abilities. “The advent of computer aided music is limiting
the need for professional development of instruments
playing abilities. FITS is conceived to bridge the gap by
promoting the role of instruments playing ability in
entertainment.
At FITS, individuals showcase their abilities in a national project
where youths from all regions are given a life time opportunity to
live out their dreams. All musical instruments, used and played in
any part of Nigeria are considered for qualification and eventual
selection of any potential participant. Vocalists are allowed to
participate to compliment the efforts of the instrumentalists. ”
Continuing, the organizers further explained that every season, a
female and a male musician with demonstrated instrument
playing abilities will be selected to act as the Queen and King of a
Groove that will be created in a natural setting for camping the
selected participants.
Shedding more light on the selection process, the organizers
disclosed that they are eight regional selection centres across the
country, to allow ease of access to the contestants. With a token
entry fee that is payable into any Afribank , a participant is given a
pass code to login into FITS registration portal to complete the
entry form. “Entry is open to anyone that can play an instrument
or with good vocals.” Selection centres for the forthcoming reality
show are: Lagos, Ibadan, Benin, Enugu, Abuja, Kaduna, Port-
Harcourt and Calabar.
Three female and three male contestants will be selected from
each venue to make up the 48 contestants that will head for FITS
Groove located in a remote natural setting “The camp is a typical
African village setting where there is a King and Queen whose
business in the camp is to mentor the 48 finalists that will
eventually make it. The training diet will enable them improve on
their skills as they are further tested and reduced in numbers to 36
contestants, after one week. ”
While at the camp, individual contestants will be engaged in
competition with a view to selecting the best hands on each type
of instrument. The Judges will be drawn from the best in the
music industry in Nigeria.
N6m and a record deal worth N5m with a prominent record
label, will be taken home by the overall winner. While N3m and
N1.5m, will be shared between the first and second runners up,
respectively. There will be lots of consolation prizes for the other
contestants.
Tony Allen rides afrobeat to fame on Broadway
Some decades ago, world music fans discovered
the searing, danceable power of a sound called
Afrobeat, championed by the late charismatic
Nigerian singer, Fela Anikulapo-Kuti.
Thirteen years after his death, the superstar from
the South-West Nigeria and his music are
undergoing a revival, with a hit Broadway show,
FELA!, album re-issues and even an upcoming
film.
This makes it the perfect time to get close and
personal with drummer Tony Allen, the man who
fueled Fela ’s furious rhythmic fire and put the beat
in Afrobeat.
Allen, who played with Fela for 15 years, was on a
brief U.S. tour that stopped Tuesday at the Middle
East. He led a band that covered material from his
heated, new Secret Agent. Speaking on telephone from New York,
the 69-year-old Allen, who has lived in Paris for more than two
decades, wondered why it took so long for the mainstream to
discover Fela.
“Why not before?,” Allen asked, adding that he’s happy that the
music and his longtime compadre are finally getting their due.
“ Afrobeat is becoming more popular, but it’s still not full yet.
Musicians who are too young to know who Fela was have been
exposed to the style and are just catching up with it. I ’m hoping it
will grow.”
Allen, with his trademark double beats on the bass drum, has
long been doing his part to grow Afrobeat, starting with Fela ’s
electrifying Afrika 70 band in the late ’60s.
Fela charged much of his music with jagged political barbs, often
aimed at the Nigerian government.
His lyrics landed him in jail on many occasions. Allen, too, was
jailed, but he has focused more sharply on the music than on
righting wrongs. That ’s one reason his hard-driving, horn-
punctuated Afrobeat still sounds as James Brown-funky and
urgent as ever. Allen also mixes in African highlife and American
jazz - no surprise given that jazz drummers were an early
influence.
“I did my homework with Art Blakey and Max Roach,” Allen said.
“And I tried to discover what I could do with a trap drum kit.
When you’re from Africa, people always think that you play the
conga drums or whatever. From day one, I wanted to prove that
I could play African music on trap drums. I took my time, but I
was myself. And that ’s when Fela met me.”
It was a fateful meeting. “Some people say I created Afrobeat,”
Allen said. “No, it was in conjunction with Fela. I had to find a way
to play what Fela wanted. It was a challenge to myself. We were
meant to meet each other. ”
FELA! relays the true story of the legendary Nigerian musician Fela
Anikulapo- Kuti, whose soulful Afrobeat rhythms ignited a
generation.
Inspired by his mother, Funmilayo Ransome-Kuti, a civil rights
champion, Fela defied a corrupt and oppressive military
government and devoted his life and music to the struggle for
freedom and human dignity. FELA! is a triumphant tale of courage,
passion and love, featuring Fela Kuti ’s captivating music and the
visionary direction and choreography of Tony-Award winner Bill
T. Jones.
the searing, danceable power of a sound called
Afrobeat, championed by the late charismatic
Nigerian singer, Fela Anikulapo-Kuti.
Thirteen years after his death, the superstar from
the South-West Nigeria and his music are
undergoing a revival, with a hit Broadway show,
FELA!, album re-issues and even an upcoming
film.
This makes it the perfect time to get close and
personal with drummer Tony Allen, the man who
fueled Fela ’s furious rhythmic fire and put the beat
in Afrobeat.
Allen, who played with Fela for 15 years, was on a
brief U.S. tour that stopped Tuesday at the Middle
East. He led a band that covered material from his
heated, new Secret Agent. Speaking on telephone from New York,
the 69-year-old Allen, who has lived in Paris for more than two
decades, wondered why it took so long for the mainstream to
discover Fela.
“Why not before?,” Allen asked, adding that he’s happy that the
music and his longtime compadre are finally getting their due.
“ Afrobeat is becoming more popular, but it’s still not full yet.
Musicians who are too young to know who Fela was have been
exposed to the style and are just catching up with it. I ’m hoping it
will grow.”
Allen, with his trademark double beats on the bass drum, has
long been doing his part to grow Afrobeat, starting with Fela ’s
electrifying Afrika 70 band in the late ’60s.
Fela charged much of his music with jagged political barbs, often
aimed at the Nigerian government.
His lyrics landed him in jail on many occasions. Allen, too, was
jailed, but he has focused more sharply on the music than on
righting wrongs. That ’s one reason his hard-driving, horn-
punctuated Afrobeat still sounds as James Brown-funky and
urgent as ever. Allen also mixes in African highlife and American
jazz - no surprise given that jazz drummers were an early
influence.
“I did my homework with Art Blakey and Max Roach,” Allen said.
“And I tried to discover what I could do with a trap drum kit.
When you’re from Africa, people always think that you play the
conga drums or whatever. From day one, I wanted to prove that
I could play African music on trap drums. I took my time, but I
was myself. And that ’s when Fela met me.”
It was a fateful meeting. “Some people say I created Afrobeat,”
Allen said. “No, it was in conjunction with Fela. I had to find a way
to play what Fela wanted. It was a challenge to myself. We were
meant to meet each other. ”
FELA! relays the true story of the legendary Nigerian musician Fela
Anikulapo- Kuti, whose soulful Afrobeat rhythms ignited a
generation.
Inspired by his mother, Funmilayo Ransome-Kuti, a civil rights
champion, Fela defied a corrupt and oppressive military
government and devoted his life and music to the struggle for
freedom and human dignity. FELA! is a triumphant tale of courage,
passion and love, featuring Fela Kuti ’s captivating music and the
visionary direction and choreography of Tony-Award winner Bill
T. Jones.
Thursday, June 17, 2010
Oprah's Big Giveaway to her staff
Oprah is easily the
world's most generous
boss!
The media mogul always
showers her staff with
gifts, luxury vacations
and bonuses. And this
year is no different.
Oprah reportedly gave each employee at her
"O" magazine an iPad and $10,000 to mark
the publication's 10th anniversary. WOW!
A spokesperson for Winfrey says, "As a
thank you for their hard work and
dedication, Oprah Winfrey surprised the
staff of O, The Oprah Magazine, with an
Apple iPad and a check for $10,000, to
commemorate the magazine's 10th
anniversary."
Damn, how do we get a job with O? This isn't
the first time she's handed out luxury gifts
either.
She once flew her entire staff, and family
members, to Europe for an all expenses
cruise in the Mediterranean.
Must be nice to know O!
world's most generous
boss!
The media mogul always
showers her staff with
gifts, luxury vacations
and bonuses. And this
year is no different.
Oprah reportedly gave each employee at her
"O" magazine an iPad and $10,000 to mark
the publication's 10th anniversary. WOW!
A spokesperson for Winfrey says, "As a
thank you for their hard work and
dedication, Oprah Winfrey surprised the
staff of O, The Oprah Magazine, with an
Apple iPad and a check for $10,000, to
commemorate the magazine's 10th
anniversary."
Damn, how do we get a job with O? This isn't
the first time she's handed out luxury gifts
either.
She once flew her entire staff, and family
members, to Europe for an all expenses
cruise in the Mediterranean.
Must be nice to know O!
Cops called on Dina Lohan
The Lohan's seem to
make trouble wherever
they go. But this time it
had nothing to do with
Lindsay, and everything
to do with ice cream.
Dina Lohan walked into
Marvel ice cream shop in East Meadow, New
York, on Wednesday to buy her son Cody an
Ice Cream cake for his birthday.
Lindsay's Next Stop: Celebrity Apprentice?
“The shop assistant said, ‘Do you have I.D.?’”
Dina tells Radaronline. “Next minute he
grabbed my arm and took my card and held
it hostage and wouldn’t give me the cake!
Apparently if you have the magical Black
Card, which is similar to a Black AmEx, you
get free ice cream for 75 years. And of
course Dina went in trying to cash in on the
free goods.
"Next minute, four cop cars showed up,
there’s a police helicopter over head and this
guy makes it seem to the cops that I’m trying
to use a stolen credit card -- and for what?
Over a free ice cream?!” Dina "accidentally"
tried to use her daughter Ali's credit card
instead of hers.
"When Ali gets back, I’m going to bring her in
everyday to this store -- and you can print
that,” she told Radar.
Who needs a Black AmEx when you have a
Black ice cream card?
make trouble wherever
they go. But this time it
had nothing to do with
Lindsay, and everything
to do with ice cream.
Dina Lohan walked into
Marvel ice cream shop in East Meadow, New
York, on Wednesday to buy her son Cody an
Ice Cream cake for his birthday.
Lindsay's Next Stop: Celebrity Apprentice?
“The shop assistant said, ‘Do you have I.D.?’”
Dina tells Radaronline. “Next minute he
grabbed my arm and took my card and held
it hostage and wouldn’t give me the cake!
Apparently if you have the magical Black
Card, which is similar to a Black AmEx, you
get free ice cream for 75 years. And of
course Dina went in trying to cash in on the
free goods.
"Next minute, four cop cars showed up,
there’s a police helicopter over head and this
guy makes it seem to the cops that I’m trying
to use a stolen credit card -- and for what?
Over a free ice cream?!” Dina "accidentally"
tried to use her daughter Ali's credit card
instead of hers.
"When Ali gets back, I’m going to bring her in
everyday to this store -- and you can print
that,” she told Radar.
Who needs a Black AmEx when you have a
Black ice cream card?
Diane Kruger almost killed Sharon Stone
The headline says it all.
Diane Kruger really did
almost kill Sharon Stone!
Diane almost ran over
Sharon with an electronic
two-wheeled self-
balancing vehicle once at
a charity event, but luckily Sharon was a few
inches off.
Sharon Stone: Meryl Streep Looks Like an
Unmade Bed
She explained: "I was at this auction last year
for amfAR - a foundation for AIDS research -
and Sharon Stone was hosting. Josh and I
were supposed to auction off a Segway. And
for some reason I decided to get on it,
wearing really high heels. I was totally off
balance, and I nearly killed Sharon Stone.
"I'm not kidding. I ran over the train of her
dress, and she stumbled and almost fell off
the stage. Josh had to pull me off. I could see
the headlines, 'Diane Kruger kills Sharon
Stone'."
That would have been an interesting week!
From amfAR to the hospital to a funeral.
Phew, luckily Sharon's dress was the only
one hurt in the incident.
Diane Kruger really did
almost kill Sharon Stone!
Diane almost ran over
Sharon with an electronic
two-wheeled self-
balancing vehicle once at
a charity event, but luckily Sharon was a few
inches off.
Sharon Stone: Meryl Streep Looks Like an
Unmade Bed
She explained: "I was at this auction last year
for amfAR - a foundation for AIDS research -
and Sharon Stone was hosting. Josh and I
were supposed to auction off a Segway. And
for some reason I decided to get on it,
wearing really high heels. I was totally off
balance, and I nearly killed Sharon Stone.
"I'm not kidding. I ran over the train of her
dress, and she stumbled and almost fell off
the stage. Josh had to pull me off. I could see
the headlines, 'Diane Kruger kills Sharon
Stone'."
That would have been an interesting week!
From amfAR to the hospital to a funeral.
Phew, luckily Sharon's dress was the only
one hurt in the incident.
Eva Longoria ready for a baby
Eva Longoria and Tony
Parker may be the next
hot celebrity parents!
At the Gillette Fusion
Ultimate Summer Job
event Tuesday in NYC,
Tony told Us Magazine,
"We're thinking about it. Pretty soon. She's
got one more year with Desperate
Housewives, so we'll see what happens."
He also said that not only would Eva be a
"great" mom, but he thinks he would be a
natural dad. "I'd be great. I love kids," he
said.
Parker may be the next
hot celebrity parents!
At the Gillette Fusion
Ultimate Summer Job
event Tuesday in NYC,
Tony told Us Magazine,
"We're thinking about it. Pretty soon. She's
got one more year with Desperate
Housewives, so we'll see what happens."
He also said that not only would Eva be a
"great" mom, but he thinks he would be a
natural dad. "I'd be great. I love kids," he
said.
Camron Diaz:I travel for Cock
We love how outspoken
Cameron Diaz is. She'll
say what's on her mind
whenever she wants and
never apologizes for it.
Cameron is featured in
the new issue of Playboy
magazine. No, she's not naked, but there's an
awesome interview with her inside the
mag--cause you know, we only read Playboy
for the articles.
In the issue Cam talks about how she "travels
for cock," on her current dating situation and
how she loves rough sex. Check out the
hilarious interview below...
On traveling for love: "Oh gosh, I can't even
count how many times I've gotten on a
plane for love. It's not unusual in this
business; my lifestyle demands it. I'm always
traveling for [whispers] cock. You've got to
go where it is."
On whether she is dating Alex Rodriguez:
"No, no, no. I've been in relationships since I
was 16 years old. In the past three years I've
made a conscious decision not to be in a
relationship for as long as I want. I've stayed
away from all the traps out there for me to
just fall into something that will potentially
lead me down the same road...I want to have
a relationship with myself right now."
On her famous booty: "My booty has been
on hiatus from film but certainly not from
everyday life, where it doesn't stop moving.
It's in constant sway and has a mind of its
own. On camera, though, there just hasn't
been an opportunity for it to assert itself
lately."
On primal sex: "I'm primal on an animalistic
level, kind of like, 'Bonk me over the head,
throw me over your shoulder. You man, me
woman.' Not everybody has the right kind
of primal thing for me...I love physical
contact. I have to be touching my lover, like,
always. It's not optional."
Cameron Diaz is. She'll
say what's on her mind
whenever she wants and
never apologizes for it.
Cameron is featured in
the new issue of Playboy
magazine. No, she's not naked, but there's an
awesome interview with her inside the
mag--cause you know, we only read Playboy
for the articles.
In the issue Cam talks about how she "travels
for cock," on her current dating situation and
how she loves rough sex. Check out the
hilarious interview below...
On traveling for love: "Oh gosh, I can't even
count how many times I've gotten on a
plane for love. It's not unusual in this
business; my lifestyle demands it. I'm always
traveling for [whispers] cock. You've got to
go where it is."
On whether she is dating Alex Rodriguez:
"No, no, no. I've been in relationships since I
was 16 years old. In the past three years I've
made a conscious decision not to be in a
relationship for as long as I want. I've stayed
away from all the traps out there for me to
just fall into something that will potentially
lead me down the same road...I want to have
a relationship with myself right now."
On her famous booty: "My booty has been
on hiatus from film but certainly not from
everyday life, where it doesn't stop moving.
It's in constant sway and has a mind of its
own. On camera, though, there just hasn't
been an opportunity for it to assert itself
lately."
On primal sex: "I'm primal on an animalistic
level, kind of like, 'Bonk me over the head,
throw me over your shoulder. You man, me
woman.' Not everybody has the right kind
of primal thing for me...I love physical
contact. I have to be touching my lover, like,
always. It's not optional."
Tiger and Elin Reunite
Elin Nordegren seems
like she despises her
husband Tiger Woods,
and has been taking off
any chance she can, just
to get away from him.
But now we hear a
reunion may be in the works. Elin has
reportedly returned from Shanghai, China
and is back at home in Orlando. And
according to RadarOnline.com, she’s
considering flying out to California to see
Tiger compete in the U.S. Open at Pebble
Beach this week.
like she despises her
husband Tiger Woods,
and has been taking off
any chance she can, just
to get away from him.
But now we hear a
reunion may be in the works. Elin has
reportedly returned from Shanghai, China
and is back at home in Orlando. And
according to RadarOnline.com, she’s
considering flying out to California to see
Tiger compete in the U.S. Open at Pebble
Beach this week.
Britney Spears discover new music act
After Britney Spears
tweeted about her
favorite summer song
“When She Turns 18,” by
musical artist Christian
TV, we just had to find
out who he was!
Britney tweeted last week, "Sitting with
Jason [Trawick]. He just played me my
favorite new song of the summer, 'When She
Turns 18.'"
15 Most Profitable Female Tours Ever
We were expecting some Christian singer,
but he’s quite the opposite! He’s the newest
artist to be signed to Universal Motown, and
his debut album can be expected later this
year.
“I love to surprise people,” he says. “I love
that sense of mystery that just the name
Christian TV evokes. Just when you think I
might bring you something one way, I’ll
change it up. I’ve put a lot of hard work into
this just to be in this position, but I also
know just getting signed is only the first
step. I do feel I’m surrounded now by a
great label. A bulletproof team, but we still
have a long way to go in getting the
attention of the audience I want to capture.
Of getting them into true Christian TV mode. I
want to change pop music. People are ready
for something new. Who would be in this
thing and not want to make history. I’m
ready.”
So keep your eyes out for this newcomer.
We already agree with Brit that “When She
Turns 18” screams summer 2010. Check out
the video below!
tweeted about her
favorite summer song
“When She Turns 18,” by
musical artist Christian
TV, we just had to find
out who he was!
Britney tweeted last week, "Sitting with
Jason [Trawick]. He just played me my
favorite new song of the summer, 'When She
Turns 18.'"
15 Most Profitable Female Tours Ever
We were expecting some Christian singer,
but he’s quite the opposite! He’s the newest
artist to be signed to Universal Motown, and
his debut album can be expected later this
year.
“I love to surprise people,” he says. “I love
that sense of mystery that just the name
Christian TV evokes. Just when you think I
might bring you something one way, I’ll
change it up. I’ve put a lot of hard work into
this just to be in this position, but I also
know just getting signed is only the first
step. I do feel I’m surrounded now by a
great label. A bulletproof team, but we still
have a long way to go in getting the
attention of the audience I want to capture.
Of getting them into true Christian TV mode. I
want to change pop music. People are ready
for something new. Who would be in this
thing and not want to make history. I’m
ready.”
So keep your eyes out for this newcomer.
We already agree with Brit that “When She
Turns 18” screams summer 2010. Check out
the video below!
Christina on the basketball
FORGET the World Cup - all CHRISTINA
AGUILERA'S interested in is the NBA
Finals.
So much so, the raunchy babe belted
out a rousing rendition of the Star
Spangled Banner before the LA Lakers'
encounter with Boston Celtics.
Christina - whose new album Bionic is
tipped to top the charts this weekend -
wisely opted for a more conservative
look at the sporting occasion, donning
a little black dress and leopard-print
Louboutin heels.
The Dirrty
star
proved
she's
equally
competent delivering an a capella
version of the US national anthem as
she is singing her saucy pop
compositions.
Recent Hawaii holidaymaker MEGAN
FOX was among the A-list spectators
who watched the Lakers run out 89-67
winners in game six of the finals.
The movie beauty and on/off
boyfriend BRIAN AUSTIN GREEN kept a
low profile, wearing ripped jeans and
trackie bums, respectively, and
baseball caps.
Shame she's no longer in her bikini...
AGUILERA'S interested in is the NBA
Finals.
So much so, the raunchy babe belted
out a rousing rendition of the Star
Spangled Banner before the LA Lakers'
encounter with Boston Celtics.
Christina - whose new album Bionic is
tipped to top the charts this weekend -
wisely opted for a more conservative
look at the sporting occasion, donning
a little black dress and leopard-print
Louboutin heels.
The Dirrty
star
proved
she's
equally
competent delivering an a capella
version of the US national anthem as
she is singing her saucy pop
compositions.
Recent Hawaii holidaymaker MEGAN
FOX was among the A-list spectators
who watched the Lakers run out 89-67
winners in game six of the finals.
The movie beauty and on/off
boyfriend BRIAN AUSTIN GREEN kept a
low profile, wearing ripped jeans and
trackie bums, respectively, and
baseball caps.
Shame she's no longer in her bikini...
Wednesday, June 16, 2010
Chris Klein busted with DUI
American Pie actor Chris
Klein, aka Katie Holmes'
ex, has been arrested for
driving under the
influence.
Chris was taken into
custody after failing a
sobriety test early this morning.
A police report claims he was “observed
weaving from number three lane into the
second and number four lane westbound US
101 at Woodman Ave." Party in the valley!
This isn't the first time he's gotten drunk and
gotten behind the wheel. In 2004 he was
arrested in San Diego for driving under the
influence. He was charged with two-
misdemeanor counts- exceeding the blood-
alcohol limit in California by more than
double.
You'd think he would have learned his
lesson the last time, but nope. He's now
facing 4 days in jail. Don't drop the soap
Chris!
Klein, aka Katie Holmes'
ex, has been arrested for
driving under the
influence.
Chris was taken into
custody after failing a
sobriety test early this morning.
A police report claims he was “observed
weaving from number three lane into the
second and number four lane westbound US
101 at Woodman Ave." Party in the valley!
This isn't the first time he's gotten drunk and
gotten behind the wheel. In 2004 he was
arrested in San Diego for driving under the
influence. He was charged with two-
misdemeanor counts- exceeding the blood-
alcohol limit in California by more than
double.
You'd think he would have learned his
lesson the last time, but nope. He's now
facing 4 days in jail. Don't drop the soap
Chris!
Kate Gosselin got her own dating show
Jon who? Kate Gosselin
is on fire! Not only does
she have her own show,
Kate Plus 8, on TLC, she's
getting her own dating
show.
“Kate’s working on a deal
to do a new reality dating series on ABC,” an
insider reveals to Life & Style.
is on fire! Not only does
she have her own show,
Kate Plus 8, on TLC, she's
getting her own dating
show.
“Kate’s working on a deal
to do a new reality dating series on ABC,” an
insider reveals to Life & Style.
Top 10 Tv show One-liners
Some television shows
are remembered for their
finales. Others for that
one amazing season that
kept viewers reeled in.
And some shows have
those one-liners we’ll
never forget!
Whether the catch phrase was delivered with
such great inflection by the character, or
repeated so much that it’s burned in our
minds forever, these ten one-liners are just
as famous as the shows they were a part of!
10. “Yada, yada, yada” from Seinfeld:
George’s girlfriend infamously used the
phrase often, leading him to believe she was
omitting important information from her
stories. But after forcing her to fill in the
details, he discovered more than he wants to
know. This episode was nominated for an
Emmy.
9. “Lucy! I'm Home!” from I Love Lucy: Ricki
uttered those words every time he walked
through the door, usually to find Lucy up to
her antics.
8. “Ayyyy” from Happy Days: Fonzie owned
this catch phrase, and always accompanied it
with both thumbs up. This was a greeting or
a statement of positive affirmation.
7. “Oh my God, she's fashion roadkill!” from
Sex and the City: Stanford Blatch nearly lost
his lunch after watching Carrie fall flat on her
face on the runway. In true Carrie fashion,
though, she got up and showed those
skinny models who was boss.
6. “Did I do that?” from Family Matters:
Everything Steve Urkel did was annoying,
but the most skin-crawling phrase of his was
“Did I do that?” And almost every single
time….yes he did do that!
5. “Oh my God! They killed Kenny” from
South Park: Poor Kenny McCormick has more
lives than a cat. The hooded character is, to
this day, killed off at some point during
almost every single episode, to which Stan
and Kyle exclaim, “Oh my God! They killed
Kenny! You bastards!”
4. “How rude!” from Full House: This one-
liner was made popular by Stephanie Tanner,
played by Jodie Sweetin, who used the
phrase any chance she could get, especially
when responding to her two sisters.
3. “D’oh” from The Simpsons: Homer
Simpson uses the phrase when he’s done
something stupid, hurts himself, or is
anticipating backlash for something he’s
done. And if you know Homer, you’re aware
he’s not the sharpest tool in the shed.
2. “How you doin?’” from Friends: Joey
made this pick-up line relevant, and what’s
sad is we’re sure there are plenty of men
who try using it on the ladies. But like with
Joey, we’re sure no girl has ever fallen for it!
1. "What’choo talkin''bout Willis?" from
Diff'rent Strokes: The late Gary Coleman
uttered the classic line often, directed
towards his brother, played by Todd Bridges.
It’ll never get old to hear that catch phrase!
are remembered for their
finales. Others for that
one amazing season that
kept viewers reeled in.
And some shows have
those one-liners we’ll
never forget!
Whether the catch phrase was delivered with
such great inflection by the character, or
repeated so much that it’s burned in our
minds forever, these ten one-liners are just
as famous as the shows they were a part of!
10. “Yada, yada, yada” from Seinfeld:
George’s girlfriend infamously used the
phrase often, leading him to believe she was
omitting important information from her
stories. But after forcing her to fill in the
details, he discovered more than he wants to
know. This episode was nominated for an
Emmy.
9. “Lucy! I'm Home!” from I Love Lucy: Ricki
uttered those words every time he walked
through the door, usually to find Lucy up to
her antics.
8. “Ayyyy” from Happy Days: Fonzie owned
this catch phrase, and always accompanied it
with both thumbs up. This was a greeting or
a statement of positive affirmation.
7. “Oh my God, she's fashion roadkill!” from
Sex and the City: Stanford Blatch nearly lost
his lunch after watching Carrie fall flat on her
face on the runway. In true Carrie fashion,
though, she got up and showed those
skinny models who was boss.
6. “Did I do that?” from Family Matters:
Everything Steve Urkel did was annoying,
but the most skin-crawling phrase of his was
“Did I do that?” And almost every single
time….yes he did do that!
5. “Oh my God! They killed Kenny” from
South Park: Poor Kenny McCormick has more
lives than a cat. The hooded character is, to
this day, killed off at some point during
almost every single episode, to which Stan
and Kyle exclaim, “Oh my God! They killed
Kenny! You bastards!”
4. “How rude!” from Full House: This one-
liner was made popular by Stephanie Tanner,
played by Jodie Sweetin, who used the
phrase any chance she could get, especially
when responding to her two sisters.
3. “D’oh” from The Simpsons: Homer
Simpson uses the phrase when he’s done
something stupid, hurts himself, or is
anticipating backlash for something he’s
done. And if you know Homer, you’re aware
he’s not the sharpest tool in the shed.
2. “How you doin?’” from Friends: Joey
made this pick-up line relevant, and what’s
sad is we’re sure there are plenty of men
who try using it on the ladies. But like with
Joey, we’re sure no girl has ever fallen for it!
1. "What’choo talkin''bout Willis?" from
Diff'rent Strokes: The late Gary Coleman
uttered the classic line often, directed
towards his brother, played by Todd Bridges.
It’ll never get old to hear that catch phrase!
Rihanna's next album to compared to Thriller
Rihanna has got some
big shoes to fill. She’s
currently working on her
next album, and Def Jam
has some big
expectations for the
project.
Label president Bu Thiam recently did a blog
for Vibe magazine in which he talked about
how he’s pushing Rihanna to create a
masterpiece.
Thiam says he’s trying to get Rihanna not to
filter her music. “Rihanna is coming along
incredibly,” he said. “I’m trying to push her
to where every song will be a hit from 1 to
12. I’m talking about NO album fillers. Our bar
for this album is Michael Jackson’s Thriller.”
He seems to have created a dream team to
help make that a reality. He added, “We got
smashes from Stargate, Ester Dean, Mel & Mus
and Rock City. We’re definitely going in with
Ne-Yo, The-Dream and other writers and
producers that have always been a part of
her creative process since day one. She’s
great to work with and very hands on with
every song that’s being written and
produced. She has visual concepts for just
about every song. It’s already giving me the
feel of a timeless album, and right now is her
time.”
There’s hardly a Rihanna song we don’t like,
so we’re sure the next album will be
amazing. But even so, Thriller is untouchable!
big shoes to fill. She’s
currently working on her
next album, and Def Jam
has some big
expectations for the
project.
Label president Bu Thiam recently did a blog
for Vibe magazine in which he talked about
how he’s pushing Rihanna to create a
masterpiece.
Thiam says he’s trying to get Rihanna not to
filter her music. “Rihanna is coming along
incredibly,” he said. “I’m trying to push her
to where every song will be a hit from 1 to
12. I’m talking about NO album fillers. Our bar
for this album is Michael Jackson’s Thriller.”
He seems to have created a dream team to
help make that a reality. He added, “We got
smashes from Stargate, Ester Dean, Mel & Mus
and Rock City. We’re definitely going in with
Ne-Yo, The-Dream and other writers and
producers that have always been a part of
her creative process since day one. She’s
great to work with and very hands on with
every song that’s being written and
produced. She has visual concepts for just
about every song. It’s already giving me the
feel of a timeless album, and right now is her
time.”
There’s hardly a Rihanna song we don’t like,
so we’re sure the next album will be
amazing. But even so, Thriller is untouchable!
Fela's biography tops Tony award
The biography of Afrobeat legend, the late
Fela Anikulapo-Kuti, and "La Cage aux Folles,"
were the dominant nominees at Sunday's
star-laden 2010 Tony Awards.
"Fela!" - the innovative Afrobeat biography
of the superstar, and "La Cage aux Folles" - a
revival of the classic Jerry Herman-Harvey
Fierstein musical - had 11 nominations, the
Associated Press reports.
They were followed by the revival of
August Wilson's "Fences," with 10
nominations and the musical "Memphis,"
with eight.
The ceremony, from Radio City Music Hall
and telecast on CBS, begans at 8 pm EDT
(1am on Monday Nigerian time) and was
hosted by Sean Hayes, who is up for leading
actor in a musical.
The musical is for his portrayal of Chuck
Baxter, the insecure company man who
lends out his bachelor apartment for
extramarital, romantic dalliances by its
executives, in a revival of "Promises,
Promises."
Fela Anikulapo-Kuti, and "La Cage aux Folles,"
were the dominant nominees at Sunday's
star-laden 2010 Tony Awards.
"Fela!" - the innovative Afrobeat biography
of the superstar, and "La Cage aux Folles" - a
revival of the classic Jerry Herman-Harvey
Fierstein musical - had 11 nominations, the
Associated Press reports.
They were followed by the revival of
August Wilson's "Fences," with 10
nominations and the musical "Memphis,"
with eight.
The ceremony, from Radio City Music Hall
and telecast on CBS, begans at 8 pm EDT
(1am on Monday Nigerian time) and was
hosted by Sean Hayes, who is up for leading
actor in a musical.
The musical is for his portrayal of Chuck
Baxter, the insecure company man who
lends out his bachelor apartment for
extramarital, romantic dalliances by its
executives, in a revival of "Promises,
Promises."
Lagbaja to release four videos
Veiled musician, Lagbaja has been quiet for
sometime now, with many even insinuating
that he may have left everything behind to
settle down in the US. But, as e-Punch
discovered early this week, the masked man
has been busy working on new materials:
songs, videos, and other music-related stuff.
And, with plans to unleash them soon, we
shouldn't be too surprised to see him
shouting out loud by mid-year.
A source close to the band tells us Lagbaja
will release four new videos in the coming
weeks; all at the same time. "The videos are
ready. We're just waiting for the right time
to release them,'' said our source.
Apart from Bling Bling panda which we
gather is one of the videos to expect, it's
uncertain what the other tracks are.
sometime now, with many even insinuating
that he may have left everything behind to
settle down in the US. But, as e-Punch
discovered early this week, the masked man
has been busy working on new materials:
songs, videos, and other music-related stuff.
And, with plans to unleash them soon, we
shouldn't be too surprised to see him
shouting out loud by mid-year.
A source close to the band tells us Lagbaja
will release four new videos in the coming
weeks; all at the same time. "The videos are
ready. We're just waiting for the right time
to release them,'' said our source.
Apart from Bling Bling panda which we
gather is one of the videos to expect, it's
uncertain what the other tracks are.
Kylie Minogue:I play a part in GaGa's sucess
Kylie Minogue is one of
our all-time favorite
artists. She been ruling
the dance-pop music
scene since the 80s, and
feels she’s had a big
influence on one current
artist in particular: Lady
Gaga!
It’s like everyone wants a piece of the Fame
Monster, including the already-famous!
Minogue told Blackbook magazine in a new
interview that she sees herself in Lady Gaga.
Kylie Minogue Strips for Breast Cancer
"I think there's an element of me in her, but
you'd also have to add into that mix other
women,” Kylie explained.
Kylie says her genre on music has become a
lot more popular in recent years, which is
why artists like Gaga have become so
successful. She added, "It's all part of a chain.
In as much as dance music has gone
mainstream, I'd love to think that I've played
a part in that."
Kylie may never be “Gaga” to us, but we still
love her. Her 11th studio album Aphrodite is
coming out next month—not an easy feat
for an artist!
Kylie said of the upcoming album, "Aphrodite
is the goddess of love, and as far as the
music goes, there's a feeling of euphoria on
this one.”
Stay tuned for more on the upcoming
album…and hopefully tour!
our all-time favorite
artists. She been ruling
the dance-pop music
scene since the 80s, and
feels she’s had a big
influence on one current
artist in particular: Lady
Gaga!
It’s like everyone wants a piece of the Fame
Monster, including the already-famous!
Minogue told Blackbook magazine in a new
interview that she sees herself in Lady Gaga.
Kylie Minogue Strips for Breast Cancer
"I think there's an element of me in her, but
you'd also have to add into that mix other
women,” Kylie explained.
Kylie says her genre on music has become a
lot more popular in recent years, which is
why artists like Gaga have become so
successful. She added, "It's all part of a chain.
In as much as dance music has gone
mainstream, I'd love to think that I've played
a part in that."
Kylie may never be “Gaga” to us, but we still
love her. Her 11th studio album Aphrodite is
coming out next month—not an easy feat
for an artist!
Kylie said of the upcoming album, "Aphrodite
is the goddess of love, and as far as the
music goes, there's a feeling of euphoria on
this one.”
Stay tuned for more on the upcoming
album…and hopefully tour!
Centurion Trailer
Centurion trailer was just
released.
The movie is about a
splinter group of Roman
soldiers who fight for
their lives behind enemy
lines after their legion is
decimated in a devastating guerrilla attack
The movie stars Michael Fassbender, Dominic
West, Olga Kurylenko, Noel Clarke, David
Morrissey.
The movie opens in theaters on August 27,
2010.
released.
The movie is about a
splinter group of Roman
soldiers who fight for
their lives behind enemy
lines after their legion is
decimated in a devastating guerrilla attack
The movie stars Michael Fassbender, Dominic
West, Olga Kurylenko, Noel Clarke, David
Morrissey.
The movie opens in theaters on August 27,
2010.
Tuesday, June 15, 2010
Centurion Trailer
Centurion trailer was just
released.
The movie is about a
splinter group of Roman
soldiers who fight for
their lives behind enemy
lines after their legion is
decimated in a devastating guerrilla attack
The movie stars Michael Fassbender, Dominic
West, Olga Kurylenko, Noel Clarke, David
Morrissey.
The movie opens in theaters on August 27,
2010.
released.
The movie is about a
splinter group of Roman
soldiers who fight for
their lives behind enemy
lines after their legion is
decimated in a devastating guerrilla attack
The movie stars Michael Fassbender, Dominic
West, Olga Kurylenko, Noel Clarke, David
Morrissey.
The movie opens in theaters on August 27,
2010.
Cameron Diaz reveals truth about Alex Rodriquez
Cameron Diaz has been
spotted on several
occasions in recent
months with Yankee
player Alex Rodriguez.
But are they actually a
couple? In the new issue
of Playboy, Diaz tells all.
Cam was spotted leaving A-Rod’s New York
City apartment last month, and the two have
shared numerous romantic dinners, leading
the public to believe she was the slugger’s
new leading lady.
Cameron Diaz and Alex Rodriguez Have
Sleepovers
But she tells the magazine, "No, no, no,"
when asked if they're an item.
Cameron Diaz is Dating Alex Rodriguez
Diaz continues, "I've been in relationships
since I was 16-years old. In the past three
years I’ve made a conscious decision not to
be in a relationship for as long as I want. I've
stayed away from all the traps out there for
me to just fall into something that will
potentially lead me down the same road ... I
want to have a relationship with myself right
now."
Cam says she’s pretty open when it comes to
guys who want to date her, which we’re
sure there are a lot of! "I never shut down
any man who’s willing to ask me out unless
he’s a total douche bag," Diaz says. "It takes a
lot for a guy to ask out a girl like me – not
because I think I'm superspecial or anything.
It’s just that I think men are intimidated, and
it’s a lot to get involved with. It’s not
uncomplicated."
She says she's "had really successful
relationships, even though they’ve lasted
only a certain amount of time. I’m okay with
that. With some of the relationships that
have drawn public interest, I feel as though
I’ve evolved, learned and become better
equipped. I don’t feel I need to make it
different for the outside world that’s looking
in and judging it.”
As for her ex Justin Timberlake, Cameron
says the rumors about them flirting on-set
are ridiculous. "We're adults," she tells the
mag. "Of course, we could work together. It’s
been three years since we broke up. It's all
done ... We're friends; he's really talented and
funny, and we're good at being funny
together. A great dynamic we have is that
we love laughing together ... he's so
hilarious."
We’re sure it’s harmless, but it can’t be easy
for Jessica Biel to watch! That’s one movie
she won’t be seeing in the theater!
spotted on several
occasions in recent
months with Yankee
player Alex Rodriguez.
But are they actually a
couple? In the new issue
of Playboy, Diaz tells all.
Cam was spotted leaving A-Rod’s New York
City apartment last month, and the two have
shared numerous romantic dinners, leading
the public to believe she was the slugger’s
new leading lady.
Cameron Diaz and Alex Rodriguez Have
Sleepovers
But she tells the magazine, "No, no, no,"
when asked if they're an item.
Cameron Diaz is Dating Alex Rodriguez
Diaz continues, "I've been in relationships
since I was 16-years old. In the past three
years I’ve made a conscious decision not to
be in a relationship for as long as I want. I've
stayed away from all the traps out there for
me to just fall into something that will
potentially lead me down the same road ... I
want to have a relationship with myself right
now."
Cam says she’s pretty open when it comes to
guys who want to date her, which we’re
sure there are a lot of! "I never shut down
any man who’s willing to ask me out unless
he’s a total douche bag," Diaz says. "It takes a
lot for a guy to ask out a girl like me – not
because I think I'm superspecial or anything.
It’s just that I think men are intimidated, and
it’s a lot to get involved with. It’s not
uncomplicated."
She says she's "had really successful
relationships, even though they’ve lasted
only a certain amount of time. I’m okay with
that. With some of the relationships that
have drawn public interest, I feel as though
I’ve evolved, learned and become better
equipped. I don’t feel I need to make it
different for the outside world that’s looking
in and judging it.”
As for her ex Justin Timberlake, Cameron
says the rumors about them flirting on-set
are ridiculous. "We're adults," she tells the
mag. "Of course, we could work together. It’s
been three years since we broke up. It's all
done ... We're friends; he's really talented and
funny, and we're good at being funny
together. A great dynamic we have is that
we love laughing together ... he's so
hilarious."
We’re sure it’s harmless, but it can’t be easy
for Jessica Biel to watch! That’s one movie
she won’t be seeing in the theater!
Monday, June 14, 2010
Heidi and Involved in cheating scandal
This Heidi Montag-
Spencer Pratt situation is
getting out of control.
This time last year, they
were so far up their own
asses, they couldn’t see
past it, or the bright
lights of the paparazzi
cameras that they hired to follow their every
move.
Now, they’re allegedly “splitting up,” and
accusing each other of having affairs.
According to RadarOnline.com, Heidi has
hired a private investigator to keep an eye
on Spencer.
Spencer Pratt situation is
getting out of control.
This time last year, they
were so far up their own
asses, they couldn’t see
past it, or the bright
lights of the paparazzi
cameras that they hired to follow their every
move.
Now, they’re allegedly “splitting up,” and
accusing each other of having affairs.
According to RadarOnline.com, Heidi has
hired a private investigator to keep an eye
on Spencer.
Tiger Woods Fathered secrete love child
Just when we thought all
the Tiger Woods rumors
and speculation were
quieting down, an
explosive new story
comes out of the U.K.!
According to The Sun,
Woods has a secret love child! A source tells
the publication, “Theresa Rogers reportedly
gave birth to a girl in 2003 and demanded
£2million for her silence.”
the Tiger Woods rumors
and speculation were
quieting down, an
explosive new story
comes out of the U.K.!
According to The Sun,
Woods has a secret love child! A source tells
the publication, “Theresa Rogers reportedly
gave birth to a girl in 2003 and demanded
£2million for her silence.”
Larry King Getting Replaced
Larry King is awesome at what he does, but
he's also ancient, and all good things have to
eventually come to an end.
Between a divorce and his wife's possible
suicide attempt, 77 year-old Larry is
reportedly ready to retire. And British TV
personality Piers Morgan is ready to take
over his job.
Suicide Note Found at Larry King's Home
According to the New York Post, the
“America’s Got Talent” and “Britain’s Got
Talent” judge is in talks with CNN for a
“possible panel show.”
He's reportedly going to host an 8PM slot, or
as a replacement for Larry himself on “Larry
King Live.”
“We aren’t commenting on the Piers Morgan
speculation, but we are talking to many
people about the 8 PM hour,” the rep told
Access Hollywood.
Larry's ratings are down 43% so it sounds
like this whole Piers rumor couldn't have
come at a better time. Do you think it's time
for Larry to retire? Or does he still have a
few years in him?
he's also ancient, and all good things have to
eventually come to an end.
Between a divorce and his wife's possible
suicide attempt, 77 year-old Larry is
reportedly ready to retire. And British TV
personality Piers Morgan is ready to take
over his job.
Suicide Note Found at Larry King's Home
According to the New York Post, the
“America’s Got Talent” and “Britain’s Got
Talent” judge is in talks with CNN for a
“possible panel show.”
He's reportedly going to host an 8PM slot, or
as a replacement for Larry himself on “Larry
King Live.”
“We aren’t commenting on the Piers Morgan
speculation, but we are talking to many
people about the 8 PM hour,” the rep told
Access Hollywood.
Larry's ratings are down 43% so it sounds
like this whole Piers rumor couldn't have
come at a better time. Do you think it's time
for Larry to retire? Or does he still have a
few years in him?
Christiano show off Armani Emporium in Ads
Cristiano Ronaldo and
his sexy assets are
featured in the latest Fall/
Winter 2010-2011 ad
campaign for Emporio
Armani Underwear and
Armani Jeans.
The ads will be seen on billboards and in
magazines starting June 13.
Top 10 Reasons Why Girls Should Watch the
World Cup
The sexy pics of Ronaldo's hefty package
were shot in Madrid and a short film will also
be released sometime in September. It will be
an online commercial of Ronaldo showing
off the Armani clothes.
Let's be honest, we don't really care for the
clothes, it's his abs we all care to see.
Cristiano Ronaldo: From Kim Kardashian to
Russian Model
Meanwhile, Ronaldo's rumored girlfriend,
Russian supermodel Irina Shayk has also
landed a lucrative Armani Exchange
campaign.
If you guys recall, Ronaldo and Shayk were
spotted on a boat together for five days in
Corsica last month.
his sexy assets are
featured in the latest Fall/
Winter 2010-2011 ad
campaign for Emporio
Armani Underwear and
Armani Jeans.
The ads will be seen on billboards and in
magazines starting June 13.
Top 10 Reasons Why Girls Should Watch the
World Cup
The sexy pics of Ronaldo's hefty package
were shot in Madrid and a short film will also
be released sometime in September. It will be
an online commercial of Ronaldo showing
off the Armani clothes.
Let's be honest, we don't really care for the
clothes, it's his abs we all care to see.
Cristiano Ronaldo: From Kim Kardashian to
Russian Model
Meanwhile, Ronaldo's rumored girlfriend,
Russian supermodel Irina Shayk has also
landed a lucrative Armani Exchange
campaign.
If you guys recall, Ronaldo and Shayk were
spotted on a boat together for five days in
Corsica last month.
Sunday, June 13, 2010
Vivian Ejike in private storm
She made a mark with her Silent Scandal and
now, movie producer and writer, Vivian
Ejike, is set to do it all over again with a
blockbuster, Private Storm.
Financed by Ejike, an ex-banker turned
movie producer, the flick has a mixture of
leading thespians drawn from both
Nollywood and the emerging Ghana film
industry known as Gollywood.
Top among the stars in the movie, which
centres on domestic violence and abuse, are
the duo of Ramsey Noah and Omotola
Jalade-Ekeinde. Faces like those of Ngozi
Ezeonu, Ufuoma Ejenabor, John Dumelo and
a host of others are also in the movie.
Shot and directed on choice locations within
and outside the Lagos metropolis by the
duo of Lancelot Imasuen and Ikechukwu
Onyeka, Ejike said the movie will be a
generational change for Nollywood when
eventually released.
"In fact, A Private Storm is a movie that is
bound to take you on a roller coaster ride of
emotions. It will make you laugh, cry, sad,
mad, happy, love, hate, and then.... You'll
want to love all over again," said Ejike.
Life and Beat gathered that Ejike and her
crew intend to storm some major
international film festivals with this movie
this year.
now, movie producer and writer, Vivian
Ejike, is set to do it all over again with a
blockbuster, Private Storm.
Financed by Ejike, an ex-banker turned
movie producer, the flick has a mixture of
leading thespians drawn from both
Nollywood and the emerging Ghana film
industry known as Gollywood.
Top among the stars in the movie, which
centres on domestic violence and abuse, are
the duo of Ramsey Noah and Omotola
Jalade-Ekeinde. Faces like those of Ngozi
Ezeonu, Ufuoma Ejenabor, John Dumelo and
a host of others are also in the movie.
Shot and directed on choice locations within
and outside the Lagos metropolis by the
duo of Lancelot Imasuen and Ikechukwu
Onyeka, Ejike said the movie will be a
generational change for Nollywood when
eventually released.
"In fact, A Private Storm is a movie that is
bound to take you on a roller coaster ride of
emotions. It will make you laugh, cry, sad,
mad, happy, love, hate, and then.... You'll
want to love all over again," said Ejike.
Life and Beat gathered that Ejike and her
crew intend to storm some major
international film festivals with this movie
this year.
Banky gets it wrong
Banky W is gradually climbing the
entertainment ladder.
Not only is his fine looks working for him,
his vocal chords and stage craft are aiding
him as well. As such, he now anchors
society events. He was the anchor at an
event held in Lagos recently, but our Mr.
Capable was anything but capable that
evening.
Not only did he waste too much time on
stage, many people felt that Banky was not
at his best as the anchor. To make matters
worse, Banky chose to 'thrill' the crowd
with his performances.
The crowd tolerated his first song, but there
was no applause when he finished singing.
It was obvious that people wanted him to
do his thing and get the show rolling again.
But Banky, obviously thinking that another
performance would ginger the crowd to
accept him, begged the guests to allow him
perform the second time.
Boy! That was a mistake! Thunderous shout
of no! no! no! rented the air.
Banky, using his 'powers' as the
anchorman, still did his song, but again, he
flopped. The crowd booed him.
However, our bloke did not allow that to
discourage him, for he still carried on with
his duties all through the event.
entertainment ladder.
Not only is his fine looks working for him,
his vocal chords and stage craft are aiding
him as well. As such, he now anchors
society events. He was the anchor at an
event held in Lagos recently, but our Mr.
Capable was anything but capable that
evening.
Not only did he waste too much time on
stage, many people felt that Banky was not
at his best as the anchor. To make matters
worse, Banky chose to 'thrill' the crowd
with his performances.
The crowd tolerated his first song, but there
was no applause when he finished singing.
It was obvious that people wanted him to
do his thing and get the show rolling again.
But Banky, obviously thinking that another
performance would ginger the crowd to
accept him, begged the guests to allow him
perform the second time.
Boy! That was a mistake! Thunderous shout
of no! no! no! rented the air.
Banky, using his 'powers' as the
anchorman, still did his song, but again, he
flopped. The crowd booed him.
However, our bloke did not allow that to
discourage him, for he still carried on with
his duties all through the event.
Kc,Ebube in reunion
Kingsely Okonkwo a.k.a. KC, of the KC Presh
group, got married recently.
The engagement and traditional marriage
was the talk of the town as a lot of money
was said to have been spent during the two
events.
But while the marriage was talked about, his
past relationship with actress, Ebube
Nwagbo, made more than enough
headlines. It was reported all over the news
media that the handsome dude had
dumped Ebube and went for the other
lovely chic.
Some people even alleged that the actress
turned to God when she could not bear the
heartbreak anymore and had to relocate to
the US because she could not face what she
considered a shame.
But lovely Ebube was sighted in Lagos
recently at an event. And guess who she sat
with all through the show. KC!
And before you ask, his new wife was not
anywhere in sight. Rather, it was his
partner, Presh, and his brother, Emy, who
were there with them.
The two chatted endlessly like the friends
they have always been.
group, got married recently.
The engagement and traditional marriage
was the talk of the town as a lot of money
was said to have been spent during the two
events.
But while the marriage was talked about, his
past relationship with actress, Ebube
Nwagbo, made more than enough
headlines. It was reported all over the news
media that the handsome dude had
dumped Ebube and went for the other
lovely chic.
Some people even alleged that the actress
turned to God when she could not bear the
heartbreak anymore and had to relocate to
the US because she could not face what she
considered a shame.
But lovely Ebube was sighted in Lagos
recently at an event. And guess who she sat
with all through the show. KC!
And before you ask, his new wife was not
anywhere in sight. Rather, it was his
partner, Presh, and his brother, Emy, who
were there with them.
The two chatted endlessly like the friends
they have always been.
Onwuka exhibits in Uk
My work is a marriage of beauty and decay.
My perception of the world is that it is like a
great
stage, with phenomenon of qualities or
attributes that range from beauty to decay.
My art tries to fuse these qualities together
by transmuting the viewer's observation
back and forth between extremes."
These are the words of Nyemike Onwuka, a
Nigerian painter who held an exhibition at
the Arc Gallery, London, last week.
Tagged 'Elegant Urban Decay', it is the first
in a series of exhibitions aimed at
celebrating Nigeria's 50th Independence
anniversary.
A report says the works draw extensively
from the "binary relationship/duality of
beauty and decomposition, a realm of
inspiration the artist is very eager to
reflect."
Among other recent engagements, Onwuka
participated at Bonham and Butterfields'
Africa Now auction, which held in New York
in March.
Women feature prominently in the artist's
works and, within the current collection,
they are used to create a disjunction
between the attractive subjects and artistic
techniques that are not conventionally
associated with beauty.
"Onwuka's traditionally beautiful and
elegant feminine bodies are juxtaposed
with a certain brashness and rusticity of
bushstrokes, and in parts, the burnishing of
the painted image to reveal the canvas
underneath," the report adds.
My perception of the world is that it is like a
great
stage, with phenomenon of qualities or
attributes that range from beauty to decay.
My art tries to fuse these qualities together
by transmuting the viewer's observation
back and forth between extremes."
These are the words of Nyemike Onwuka, a
Nigerian painter who held an exhibition at
the Arc Gallery, London, last week.
Tagged 'Elegant Urban Decay', it is the first
in a series of exhibitions aimed at
celebrating Nigeria's 50th Independence
anniversary.
A report says the works draw extensively
from the "binary relationship/duality of
beauty and decomposition, a realm of
inspiration the artist is very eager to
reflect."
Among other recent engagements, Onwuka
participated at Bonham and Butterfields'
Africa Now auction, which held in New York
in March.
Women feature prominently in the artist's
works and, within the current collection,
they are used to create a disjunction
between the attractive subjects and artistic
techniques that are not conventionally
associated with beauty.
"Onwuka's traditionally beautiful and
elegant feminine bodies are juxtaposed
with a certain brashness and rusticity of
bushstrokes, and in parts, the burnishing of
the painted image to reveal the canvas
underneath," the report adds.
From potter to pot shot
RUPERT GRINT turns gunman in our
exclusive clip from his latest movie.
The Harry Potter star becomes the
unwitting apprentice of an assassin in
the star-studded British comedy Wild
Target.
Click below to see clip.
BILL NIGHY is a ruthless killer who lives
with his domineering mum.
When he is hired to kill a beautiful
thief, played by EMILY BLUNT, he
spares her life and ends up being the
target of his original client.
In the process he gains two hangers-on
who believe he is nothing more
dangerous than a private eye.
Wild Target, released on June 18, also
stars MARTIN FREEMAN, RUPERT
EVERETT and Rab C. Nesbitt star GREGOR
FISHER.
exclusive clip from his latest movie.
The Harry Potter star becomes the
unwitting apprentice of an assassin in
the star-studded British comedy Wild
Target.
Click below to see clip.
BILL NIGHY is a ruthless killer who lives
with his domineering mum.
When he is hired to kill a beautiful
thief, played by EMILY BLUNT, he
spares her life and ends up being the
target of his original client.
In the process he gains two hangers-on
who believe he is nothing more
dangerous than a private eye.
Wild Target, released on June 18, also
stars MARTIN FREEMAN, RUPERT
EVERETT and Rab C. Nesbitt star GREGOR
FISHER.
Bey double
BEYONCÉ lookalike Rachael White
poses with the US pop superstar -
before she had a nose job to look like
her idol.
The housemate, 23, met Beyoncé
backstage when she went with her
mum Michelle to a gig in 2007.
poses with the US pop superstar -
before she had a nose job to look like
her idol.
The housemate, 23, met Beyoncé
backstage when she went with her
mum Michelle to a gig in 2007.
Corin's tragic husband agony
BIG Brother contestant Corin Forshaw
became a lesbian after the tragic
death of her husband, her mum
revealed yesterday.
Corin, 29, started dating a woman
when she realised no man could
replace hubby Alex Hayden.
He was crushed to death under a tipper
truck at the age of 28 - three months
after the couple had wed on a sun-
kissed beach in Jamaica.
Alex had been given just 20 minutes
instruction in how to drive the truck on
a building site in Stoke-on-Trent.
When the lorry toppled over he was
thrown out and the load landed on
him, killing him instantly.
The site foreman was later fined
£5,000 for failing to ensure the health
and safety of a worker.
Corin's mum Sandra, 65, said her
daughter has never fully recovered
from the tragedy.
She dated other men in the years
after losing Alex but found none of
them compared to the sweetheart
she met aged 18.
Three years ago she shocked her pals
by starting a gay relationship with
Rachel Haddow, 30, who is now
treated as "a member of the family".
Sandra, of Manchester, said: "Corin
and Alex were perfect for each other.
His death was a terrible event for all of
us and it changed Corin's life.
"She was only 18 when she met him in
a pub and he was five years older. I'd
never seen her so happy, she was head
over heels in love.
"They lived together for seven years
before they decided to get married.
"She looked beautiful on her wedding
day in an elegant white dress and her
blonde hair in ringlets.
"It was hard to accept that just a few
months later Alex was dead."
Corin was visiting her mum on the day
Alex died and a friend knocked on the
door to say she should call the police
as there had been accident.
Sandra said: "She was completely
devastated - we all were. Alex was a
huge part of all our lives. It was so
cruel.
"They were incredibly happy and had
been thinking about the next step,
which was starting a family.
"Everything changed for her from that
day, she struggled with her grief but
didn't open up very much, she was
more concerned about everyone else."
Sandra added: "She did date other men
after Alex had died but she couldn't
settle, no one could compete with him.
It was a complete shock to me when
she did find a new partner and told me
it was she not a he.
"But Rachel is a lovely girl and we've
welcomed her into the family. It was a
big surprise because Corin had never
mentioned liking women before."
Corin got over her grief by attempting
to get on the show.
Her mum said: "It gave her something
to focus all her energies on, and she's
twice been close to getting in before
she was finally picked this year.
"She knows Alex would be thrilled for
her and she will be thinking of him
when she's in the house."
became a lesbian after the tragic
death of her husband, her mum
revealed yesterday.
Corin, 29, started dating a woman
when she realised no man could
replace hubby Alex Hayden.
He was crushed to death under a tipper
truck at the age of 28 - three months
after the couple had wed on a sun-
kissed beach in Jamaica.
Alex had been given just 20 minutes
instruction in how to drive the truck on
a building site in Stoke-on-Trent.
When the lorry toppled over he was
thrown out and the load landed on
him, killing him instantly.
The site foreman was later fined
£5,000 for failing to ensure the health
and safety of a worker.
Corin's mum Sandra, 65, said her
daughter has never fully recovered
from the tragedy.
She dated other men in the years
after losing Alex but found none of
them compared to the sweetheart
she met aged 18.
Three years ago she shocked her pals
by starting a gay relationship with
Rachel Haddow, 30, who is now
treated as "a member of the family".
Sandra, of Manchester, said: "Corin
and Alex were perfect for each other.
His death was a terrible event for all of
us and it changed Corin's life.
"She was only 18 when she met him in
a pub and he was five years older. I'd
never seen her so happy, she was head
over heels in love.
"They lived together for seven years
before they decided to get married.
"She looked beautiful on her wedding
day in an elegant white dress and her
blonde hair in ringlets.
"It was hard to accept that just a few
months later Alex was dead."
Corin was visiting her mum on the day
Alex died and a friend knocked on the
door to say she should call the police
as there had been accident.
Sandra said: "She was completely
devastated - we all were. Alex was a
huge part of all our lives. It was so
cruel.
"They were incredibly happy and had
been thinking about the next step,
which was starting a family.
"Everything changed for her from that
day, she struggled with her grief but
didn't open up very much, she was
more concerned about everyone else."
Sandra added: "She did date other men
after Alex had died but she couldn't
settle, no one could compete with him.
It was a complete shock to me when
she did find a new partner and told me
it was she not a he.
"But Rachel is a lovely girl and we've
welcomed her into the family. It was a
big surprise because Corin had never
mentioned liking women before."
Corin got over her grief by attempting
to get on the show.
Her mum said: "It gave her something
to focus all her energies on, and she's
twice been close to getting in before
she was finally picked this year.
"She knows Alex would be thrilled for
her and she will be thinking of him
when she's in the house."
How will I throw
STUFFED Whitney Houston looks like
she's Whit to burst as she tucks into
an ice cream - just before a jolting
thrill-ride on a rollercoaster.
The How Will I Know star, 46, must
have struggled to keep her food down
after scoffing a wrap and popcorn with
a pal at Copenhagen's Tivoli Gardens.
Her Denmark show was blasted after
she seemed to struggle singing.
Maybe she was Waiting To Exhale.
she's Whit to burst as she tucks into
an ice cream - just before a jolting
thrill-ride on a rollercoaster.
The How Will I Know star, 46, must
have struggled to keep her food down
after scoffing a wrap and popcorn with
a pal at Copenhagen's Tivoli Gardens.
Her Denmark show was blasted after
she seemed to struggle singing.
Maybe she was Waiting To Exhale.
Paris get some fringe benefits
PARIS HILTON got the Latin look at as
she closed the Sao Paulo Fashion
Week in a sexy fringed dress.
The Triton outfit looked like a Samba
number from Dancing with The Stars
but it went down well with the 29-
year-old, who blew kisses at the
audience at the packed show.
And after the show, Paris Tweeted:
"Rocked the Runway! So much fun! The
show went amazing! All the models
looked hot as can be and the clothes
were to die for gorgeous! Fun!"
The leggy celeb also showed off her
brown pins in a tiny white minidress.
she closed the Sao Paulo Fashion
Week in a sexy fringed dress.
The Triton outfit looked like a Samba
number from Dancing with The Stars
but it went down well with the 29-
year-old, who blew kisses at the
audience at the packed show.
And after the show, Paris Tweeted:
"Rocked the Runway! So much fun! The
show went amazing! All the models
looked hot as can be and the clothes
were to die for gorgeous! Fun!"
The leggy celeb also showed off her
brown pins in a tiny white minidress.
Jodie attacked teen over pic
HOLLYWOOD actress JODIE FOSTER has
been accused of attacking a teenage
fan who tried to take her picture.
The fiercely private Panic Room star
allegedly snapped when the lad, 17,
approached her at a shopping centre.
The boy's dad claimed 47-year-old
Jodie left her own sons, aged eight and
11, shocked by her behaviour in Los
Angeles.
He said: "Jodie pushed him leaving
scratches and bruises on his arm. She
came after my son and said, 'Do you
even have a mother, you slime ball?'
"Jodie's son came over and apologised.
Her kids were really embarrassed."
The youngster has complained to cops
about the alleged incident.
A spokesman for the star said he was a
paparazzo, adding: "He tailed Jodie,
had a large camera bag and 1,000mm
telephoto lens. His behaviour was
inappropriate."
been accused of attacking a teenage
fan who tried to take her picture.
The fiercely private Panic Room star
allegedly snapped when the lad, 17,
approached her at a shopping centre.
The boy's dad claimed 47-year-old
Jodie left her own sons, aged eight and
11, shocked by her behaviour in Los
Angeles.
He said: "Jodie pushed him leaving
scratches and bruises on his arm. She
came after my son and said, 'Do you
even have a mother, you slime ball?'
"Jodie's son came over and apologised.
Her kids were really embarrassed."
The youngster has complained to cops
about the alleged incident.
A spokesman for the star said he was a
paparazzo, adding: "He tailed Jodie,
had a large camera bag and 1,000mm
telephoto lens. His behaviour was
inappropriate."
Lindsay Lohan is growin
LINDSAY LOHAN looks the picture of
health after loading up on grub.
The Herbie Fully Loaded star, 23, was
criticised last year after she was
snapped in a bikini with stick-thin legs.
But yesterday LiLo - who has battled
booze and drug addiction - showed a
few pounds can make her look a
million dollars as she shopped in
Hollywood.
She Tweeted: "Red Bull and Waters
and Work - my new bff's hehe -
everyone should try it! It's more fun -
you'll see."
The star even appears to have added a
few pounds since she was pictured,
just last week, at the MTV Movie
Awards.
health after loading up on grub.
The Herbie Fully Loaded star, 23, was
criticised last year after she was
snapped in a bikini with stick-thin legs.
But yesterday LiLo - who has battled
booze and drug addiction - showed a
few pounds can make her look a
million dollars as she shopped in
Hollywood.
She Tweeted: "Red Bull and Waters
and Work - my new bff's hehe -
everyone should try it! It's more fun -
you'll see."
The star even appears to have added a
few pounds since she was pictured,
just last week, at the MTV Movie
Awards.
Topless Xtina's a Bionic Woman
ANOTHER bizarre promo picture from
CHRISTINA AGUILERA has landed.
The singer's comeback has drawn the
obvious comparisons to LADY GAGA -
due to an increasingly outrageous
array of outfits.
For recent single Not Myself Tonight,
Xtina enjoyed lesbian romps, dressed
as a cat and covered her naked body in
gold chains.
Now she's posed topless in an odd
swimming costume and scuba-diving
goggles to promote new album Bionic.
What's next?
CHRISTINA AGUILERA has landed.
The singer's comeback has drawn the
obvious comparisons to LADY GAGA -
due to an increasingly outrageous
array of outfits.
For recent single Not Myself Tonight,
Xtina enjoyed lesbian romps, dressed
as a cat and covered her naked body in
gold chains.
Now she's posed topless in an odd
swimming costume and scuba-diving
goggles to promote new album Bionic.
What's next?
GaGa's pucker face
IF LADY GAGA gets so upset at her
photo being taken, she shouldn't
wear a bikini in public.
The singer stuck up the finger to
snappers at the New York Mets and San
Diego Padres baseball game yesterday.
If she was that bothered she could
have sat in her luxury box at New
York's Citi Field Stadium.
Instead she kissed her female pal in
full view of everyone. And there was
no point her having that big jacket
since she didn't bother wearing it.
She only gets away with antics like
these because she's got talent.
photo being taken, she shouldn't
wear a bikini in public.
The singer stuck up the finger to
snappers at the New York Mets and San
Diego Padres baseball game yesterday.
If she was that bothered she could
have sat in her luxury box at New
York's Citi Field Stadium.
Instead she kissed her female pal in
full view of everyone. And there was
no point her having that big jacket
since she didn't bother wearing it.
She only gets away with antics like
these because she's got talent.
Pete Deportey
JUNKIE rocker PETE DOHERTY has been
sent packing after trying to enter
America.
Potty Pete, 31 - who has a string of
drug convictions - flew into New York
for a gig with JOHN LENNON's son
SEAN.
The LIBERTINES singer was hoping
customs officials would turn a blind
eye to his wild past - but was put back
on a flight to London just hours later.
Doherty told pals he wanted to crack
the States despite its strict ban on drug
offenders. One said: "He thought he
could get away with it. He was wrong."
Sean, 34, spoke of his sadness at
Doherty not joining him for Thursday's
show. A fan said: "He stressed it wasn't
Pete's fault."
sent packing after trying to enter
America.
Potty Pete, 31 - who has a string of
drug convictions - flew into New York
for a gig with JOHN LENNON's son
SEAN.
The LIBERTINES singer was hoping
customs officials would turn a blind
eye to his wild past - but was put back
on a flight to London just hours later.
Doherty told pals he wanted to crack
the States despite its strict ban on drug
offenders. One said: "He thought he
could get away with it. He was wrong."
Sean, 34, spoke of his sadness at
Doherty not joining him for Thursday's
show. A fan said: "He stressed it wasn't
Pete's fault."
Why I Left Infinity-Kore
The name Kehinde Akinbode
would hardly ring a bell. Maybe
the name K ’ore could, but Infinity
will surely and readily will. It’s
the name of the five man gospel
group whose hit album Olori Oko
ruled the airwaves in 2006 and
even subsequently. They were
the toast of most gospel music
lovers in Nigeria and abroad.
Churches also courted them to
bring in the crowd.
But alas, while the group basks in its
success and lapped up its newfound
fame and fortune, the lead vocalist of
the group, Kehinde Akinbode who has
some of the hit songs in the album,
Olori Oko and Aye o le to his credit
called it quits with the group. Recently,
Sunday Sun caught up with the young
man who is in his late twenties. He has
since moved on with his own music
and re-branded as K ’ore.
In this interview, he answered the
question that has most been thrown at
him since his exit from Infinity: Why
he left. He also opened up on his
humble beginnings, his musical career
which he considers his calling, fame,
women, money and his Christian faith.
Excerpts :
Born in Ajegunle, raised in Mushin
My family had been middle class all
along. My dad used to work for
Leventis Motors. He was brilliant at his
work and he traveled abroad for
training. He worked in different states
in Nigeria, as a mechanical engineer. I
was born in Ajegunle. We moved from
there to Isolo, and because it was quite
close to Mushin, my mum didn ’t allow
us to go out because she didn’t want
me to mix with the wrong crowd.
Until I was 11 or 12, my playmates
were just my sisters. I have three
sisters; a twin sister, an elder sister and
a younger one. Then I could tie
wrapper very well like a woman. In
fact my mother almost turned me into
a sissy. My dad was not always around.
In fact Jesus has done a lot for me,
because this was how I was saved from
that trap. I ’m a guy, I needed to ride a
bicycle, play football, do what other
guys are doing, but my mum was just
loving me all the while. She didn ’t
know any better.
Mum didn’t allow me to ride bicycle
Or even play football but she allowed
me to attend church.
However there was a fellowship just
behind our house, and though she
wouldn ’t allow me go and play
football and ride bicycle, she was okay
with me going to the church. We were
nominal Christians all the while. We
weren ’t going to church often, so I
became the first person that would
really become a serious Christian in the
family. In the sense of being born-
again at least. I remember my mum
came to look for me in the church, then
my sisters started following me, and
gave their lives there too with my
mum. Then they also started attending
the fellowship, and we started
attending church.
Subsequently, I became a member of
the choir. I was about twelve then and
I wrote songs and took lead roles in
the choir until my family moved to
Agege where my father has his house.
Then I changed school and became a
leader in the school’s fellowship.
When we started out and people
asked us for our album, we asked
ourselves if we were that good.
At that time we were thinking of doing
something to make the fellowship
more vibrant, because we were losing
young people to secular clubs. So we
started a group we called All for Christ
because we were four. However, a
friend later told us that name wasn ’t
original enough because it readily
reminds you of All for One, the R and B
sensation of the eighties. That we
should think of something else. So we
thought of different names and came
up with Infinity. That was how the
group came to be. From the excos of
the fellowship in school.
That was how we started getting
invitations from outside the school,
and people would ask us for our
album. At that point we began asking
ourselves if we were that good,
because we never saw ourselves as
good enough to do an album. We were
just having fun. The four of us, and
another person joined us. And at some
point we started adjusting to the vision
and Infinity ’s Olori Oko album was
launched in 2006, it became a hit and
the rest is history.
We couldn’t afford to translate the
first idea we had for Olori Oko
video. As a team what we did was sit
down and critique several musical
videos, because we wanted ours to be
the best. So we ’ll sit and play the songs
over and over, because we wanted
something very grand. The first idea
that came was like a Zulu movie,
depicting war, with the lord of the
army coming in.
An African man tall and regal, but that
was going to cost us a lot, and we
didn ’t have the money. So we thought
of how to streamline and still pass
across the message. Then Sunny
suggested we did a drum thing and
ideas started flowing. And we thought
Dayo Liadi whom we had met
previously could do the dance. So it
became a subjective idea, whereas
what we thought initially was to
literally depict a war scene, and a war
hero coming on the scene.
Before then, we had a few stints with
arts practitioners like Mr. Wale
Macaulay, grandson of Herbert
Macaulay. It was actually on the set of
his play, The Rape of Gidiolu, that we
met Dayo. It was a socio-political
drama and we handled the music
aspect while Dayo handled the dance.
We were camped on Snake Island for
the production for a month, after
which we did a presentation at the
National Arts Theatre, and it was
beautiful. For us, it was a taste of the
arts and the experience remains
memorable for me.
When I left Infinity
Some people said I was crazy, but I was
convinced it was the next thing for me
to do.
I was convinced it was the next thing
to do, we had been together for
eleven years. Having been together for
that long, we had set out to achieve
certain things, and I ’m the kind of
person that likes to take stock of what
I ’ve done. For example, after you’ve
gone I will take stock of things that I
did in the course of the day.
I do that a lot and I was convinced it
was the next thing to do. It wasn ’t easy
for me, because it was at a time the
group was at it ’s peak. We were
enjoying a lot of favour and goodwill.
We were traveling. We just came back
from the UK, things were rosy and
good. ill date I ’ve heard people say, I
was either really just courageous
obeying God or simply crazy to have
done what I did at that time.
It’s not true that I left the group
because the others were distracted
by the opposite sex.
If I may throw this back to you, if
perhaps there was any truth in that, do
you think I would be the one
spreading that about? Would it be my
job to squeal on them? Of course, you
would expect me to call them, and talk
to them. Even if I would leave on that
basis, it shouldn ’t be me spreading the
story. And I would say categorically
that my leaving the team was not on
that basis. I attribute all that to yellow
journalism.
I love them and I miss them. Oh God, I
miss them sometimes!
But for now we need to give space so
that people can differentiate Kenny
K ’ore from Infinity.
For now, I don’t perform with the
group. No, because that would be
confusing people. If you say you ’ve
left, let people see that you left,
instead of hanging around with them.
I ’m sure sometime in the future, we
may be doing things together but for
now, a lot of people are yet to accept
that I left, so we need to give that
space for people to really know that
this is Kenny K ’ore, and that is Infinity.
They’ve recorded an album but it’s not
out yet. I think they are shooting the
video. They ’ve been doing some
promo on Radio.
On my part, I’ve been promoting my
album titled Eledumare, that’s the one
that has Yannibo. I don’t know if you’re
familiar with folktales of the tortoise.
The tortoise will be a metaphor for a
greedy, sly, cunning and evil person.
Usually they say behind every great
man, there is a great woman. Behind
every bad man too, there is a bad
woman. So the tortoise has a wife and
usually in folklore, his wife ’s name is
Yannibo . So the idea came from there.
Basically she is the everyday woman,
who likes a guy who unfortunately is
married, and she didn ’t know how to
deal with that. And she wanted to
force the guy into a relationship.
The idea behind Yannibo is to erase
the notion that men can ’t resist
seduction.
The idea is not to paint women as
Yannibo , as bad people. I wanted to
fight the idea that almost every
woman out there has. That men cannot
resist seduction. The belief is that even
with the best of us, the pastors, “make
the woman just shake body, e go fall”.
Though there is a level of truth in that,
but we need to fight that kind of
thinking. Our generation is formed by
ideas. And how do you fight an idea?
You fight it with another idea usually a
better one. What I ’m trying to do with
that song is that I want every man that
listens to that song to be able to say
“ Yes, I can do it! I will not yield to
temptation, I’ll be faithful to my wife”.
I’m normal like every other guy
The thing is I’m a very normal guy,
which means every normal weakness
that the average guy has, I have them
too. I ’m so like that. However I love
God, and I see that people perceive me
like that, “This one is a child of God”,
and that matters to me a lot. We don’t
have that a lot anymore. Our
generation is moving towards the
precipice, everyday our musical videos
are always about sex.
If they’re not about sex, it’s about
money, about greed, it’s about lust,
everything negative, everything anti-
Christ, anti-good nature and character.
It ’s out of character, out of custom, out
of tradition, it’s just crazy. The fact that
our government, music censors board
or whatever is allowing this
outrageous trend. is bad.
So if you have one guy, a lady out
there who can still be an embodiment
of light, embodiment of what we used
to be in terms of culture, respect,
character, in terms of everything that is
scriptural, why would you want to
trade that off for momentary pleasure
of sleeping around. It just doesn ’t
make sense to me.
I once lied to wriggle out of
temptation
At a time I was in a relationship with a
very good friend of mine. I think I still
care about her but we just realized
that we couldn ’t go on and we
amicably settled to just remain friends.
But while I was in a relationship with
her, I was in the UK and I met this lady.
She was very beautiful, and then we
went to this eatery which also doubles
as a library. It overlooks the city of
London. We sat at a table, we got
books, tea and small chops, and we
were talking. That moment was like a
dream come true for me.
It was a picture perfect scene but I was
already committed to someone. And
that dampened the whole atmosphere.
So while I and this lady were together,
I felt there was chemistry, and I didn ’t
like it, because I felt it was wrong. I
had somebody back here at home, that
I was committed to. So while I was
talking to the lady, I just said, “Ah! I
miss my girlfriend”, whereas it was a
lie. The last thing on my mind at that
time was missing her. I wasn ’t missing
her ; infact I was wishing she wasn’t in
my life(laughter). But I needed to do
that at that moment, and the magic
disappeared because I brought in my
girlfriend, and I felt bad.
Naturally she was already warming up
to it but of course now knowing that I
was attached, any self respecting lady
will ease out, which was what
happened. I saw all that and didn ’t like
it, but in the long run, I can sit with you
and talk about it and I ’m proud I was
able to do the right thing. That was
why I sang in Yannibo. You look at me
like I am cruel, but I ’m not an ordinary
man, I fear the Lord, I have a wife and a
son. I ’m going to do what is right,
though it seems so hard. Then I go, ‘so
hard baby’ like it’s painful.
Why I’m into music
We sang Olori Oko mainly in English
and Yoruba, then we spoke in tongues
a lot. Speaking in tongues is a
deliberate thing that I decided to do in
most of my projects because Jude said
in the Bible, “Building up yourselves
on your most holy faith, praying in the
Holy Ghost ”. Speaking in tongues is a
Christian reality, it is one of our most
holy faith, when we pray. I felt like we
should flaunt it. These other guys they
flaunt bling, bling, they even tell us
they smoke igbo. They show girls that
are shaking their backsides in their
videos. What are we proud of?
Americans flaunt their heritage
(culture). I ’m a Christian ; is there
anything in my heritage as a Christian
that I can just flaunt, and be proud of?
That’s why I do what I do.
Music is not what I’m doing to make a
name or just to put food on my table.
It ’s something I’m doing to make a
mark in my generation, so I have to do
research. I won ’t just get a catchy
phrase and just put a rhythm together
and put beats together, no. People still
refer to people like Bob Marley , Fela,
Ebenezer Obey, and Sunny Ade. Their
music is still relevant today. If it was
just something they were just
lackadaisical about, their songs won’t
be evergreen. They would have passed
with time.
There is a song I have, I got the lyrics,
the rhythm, melody in a dream. I woke
up, took my recorder and took
everything, however you still need to
work. Sometimes I want to say
something in Yoruba, I don ’t want to
use the Lagos dialect but the very deep
ones, so I consult with my mum or
other elderly persons. My mum is from
Ogbomoso in Oyo State while my dad
is from Abeokuta in Ogun State.
I chose the name K’ore because it
speaks to my destiny
K’ore simply means ‘Ku
orire’(Congratulations). I wanted
something artistic, something very
African that is meaningful and can
speak over my life, because I believe
there is something in a name.
Oftentimes people don ’t realize this
when they call themselves funny
names. Those names answer over their
lives. Call it my bias, but I ’m convinced
there’s something in a name. I thought
about several names, there’s one I love
so much, Theodore-it means lover of
God, but I decided against it because it
isn ’t African. and I wanted a name that
will reflect my heritage. I’m proudly
African, I’m proudly Nigerian, and I
want to flaunt it. So K’ore is a
shortened form of Ku orire. It’s a name
that is speaking over my life and
speaking over my destiny.
Three things convinced me that music
is my calling
One, because one is gifted . Two, being
passionate about it, and three because
you have the know-how. God will not
call you into an area in which you ’re
not gifted, or passionate about. If
someone ’s trying to find his area of
calling, the first thing he’ll be told is to
first find his area of passion, his gifts,
and to develop himself in that area.
And one wouldn ’t have strayed too far
from that calling. For me I’ve noticed
that I was gifted in this area. In fact, if I
had counsel earlier, I wouldn ’t have
done science. I could have just stayed
in the arts, because I can paint, write,
and of course play music.
Gospel is gift, it’s sacrifice…but there
should be a balance
I think whatever you are doing, the
motive should be beyond money. Even
if it ’s secular music and especially
when it’s gospel, it should definitely
not just be about you because gospel is
gift. It ’s sacrifice, it’s a ministry, but
there should be a balance. Oftentimes I
come to a point that I ’m thinking, any
form of extreme is bad, whether to the
left wing or the right wing. The Bible
itself is a book of balance such that
Jesus would say “do this, but do not
leave this undone”. Such that they
would say, do not muzzle the ox that
threads the corn, don ’t put money
ahead.
He said “seek ye first the kingdom…”.
Then He said after seeking the
kingdom, “all of these things would be
added to you”. He knows you need
them. That’s the point I want most of
our pastors and churches to realize.
When we put ministry first, like I ’m
doing, Paul said “I’ve ministered unto
you spiritual things, now you minister
to me …” You look at me, listened to
my project, looked at my life, see
where I may need help. Don ’t make
me ask you to do it, because I will not
charge you, I will minister to you
spiritual things.
The reason why we have issues now
with gospel artistes and churches on
charging fees or not is because a lot of
gospel artistes have realized that it ’s a
jungle out there, nobody cares. You
will spend money to do quality
production. I ’ve spent over N3.5
million and I’m still spending on my
project. You spend money to put
yourself on TV, do a great video,
promote videos but guess what
happens these days? I dare say
churches are not inviting you, because
you are anointed .
They are inviting you because you’re
the happening thing. You’re the rave
of the moment. If you come to church,
more people will troop after you, and
come. All of that costs money but then
you do it. And then they give you an
envelope containing N10,000,
N20,000 or N30,000. That ’s ridiculous .
You’re not singing any less than the
secular artiste. Infact, in most cases, the
gospel artistes are better vocally.
The average lifespan of a secular
album ranges from four to six months
whereas that of a gospel album ranges
between six to ten years and more.
Midnight Crew ’s Igwe is still selling,
Infinity’s Olori Oko is still selling, and I
think Asa is an evergreen. She will sell
forever. A lot of all these swagger,
ginger, just name them, their lifespan
is between four and six months. At the
end of the day when we look at it , one
is perhaps better than these guys, yet
they are raking in money in their
millions. And the church doesn ’t seem
to understand that. Gospel music is a
strong tool of evangelism. If you play it
down, you ’re pulling down the
salvation and the sanity in a lot of
churches.
Many of the secular artistes that are
singing dirty songs today were church
people, but I don ’t blame them in a
way, because when they were in the
church nobody reckoned with them.
But now, they do one hit track and
they are buying houses in Lekki, they
are riding Bentley, living large. My
project(album) was given to about
three secular labels and they were like
men …if this guy was only secular. I’d
probably be in money by now, getting
endorsements, maybe I ’ll get a Bentley
or something close. It’ll come in Jesus
name, it usually does. I’m not saying all
these, because I feel sorry for myself.
I ’m saying this, because it’s an issue
that should be addressed. In any case,
I ’ve always known that even if they
don’t do it, if you’re faithful to God
who called you, He will be faithful to
you.
Of course I miss having a ride
especially in Lagos
How it has been since I left Infinity? If
you ’re talking about shows, yes I still
have shows but can’t compare with
when I was with the group. I’m not
even trying to compare, I’m convinced
it was the next thing for me to do and I
have my peace. God has been faithful.
I gave out my car, a BMW Coupe but do
you know my prayer everyday,? Father
have your way, just have your way
with me. Even if it ’s going to be hard
for me, help me to obey you. I love God
more than my reputation. When the
scripture says, “the life I live, I live in
Christ, the life I have is not my own”,
I’ve often noticed in my life that
anytime I have a strong sense of God in
it, for whatever I might lose, I get
peace of mind.
Of course I miss having a ride
especially in Lagos but it ’s ok. I can live
with myself. I feel I obeyed God. You
know there was something God
wanted me to do, and I never did it?
And it still haunts me till today. I still
had that car then. God told me to drop
the car, enter a molue, carry Infinity CD
and just share my testimony, no
preaching. But I was too shy to do that
and it haunts me. Anytime God asks me
to do something and I don ’t, I lose my
peace.
would hardly ring a bell. Maybe
the name K ’ore could, but Infinity
will surely and readily will. It’s
the name of the five man gospel
group whose hit album Olori Oko
ruled the airwaves in 2006 and
even subsequently. They were
the toast of most gospel music
lovers in Nigeria and abroad.
Churches also courted them to
bring in the crowd.
But alas, while the group basks in its
success and lapped up its newfound
fame and fortune, the lead vocalist of
the group, Kehinde Akinbode who has
some of the hit songs in the album,
Olori Oko and Aye o le to his credit
called it quits with the group. Recently,
Sunday Sun caught up with the young
man who is in his late twenties. He has
since moved on with his own music
and re-branded as K ’ore.
In this interview, he answered the
question that has most been thrown at
him since his exit from Infinity: Why
he left. He also opened up on his
humble beginnings, his musical career
which he considers his calling, fame,
women, money and his Christian faith.
Excerpts :
Born in Ajegunle, raised in Mushin
My family had been middle class all
along. My dad used to work for
Leventis Motors. He was brilliant at his
work and he traveled abroad for
training. He worked in different states
in Nigeria, as a mechanical engineer. I
was born in Ajegunle. We moved from
there to Isolo, and because it was quite
close to Mushin, my mum didn ’t allow
us to go out because she didn’t want
me to mix with the wrong crowd.
Until I was 11 or 12, my playmates
were just my sisters. I have three
sisters; a twin sister, an elder sister and
a younger one. Then I could tie
wrapper very well like a woman. In
fact my mother almost turned me into
a sissy. My dad was not always around.
In fact Jesus has done a lot for me,
because this was how I was saved from
that trap. I ’m a guy, I needed to ride a
bicycle, play football, do what other
guys are doing, but my mum was just
loving me all the while. She didn ’t
know any better.
Mum didn’t allow me to ride bicycle
Or even play football but she allowed
me to attend church.
However there was a fellowship just
behind our house, and though she
wouldn ’t allow me go and play
football and ride bicycle, she was okay
with me going to the church. We were
nominal Christians all the while. We
weren ’t going to church often, so I
became the first person that would
really become a serious Christian in the
family. In the sense of being born-
again at least. I remember my mum
came to look for me in the church, then
my sisters started following me, and
gave their lives there too with my
mum. Then they also started attending
the fellowship, and we started
attending church.
Subsequently, I became a member of
the choir. I was about twelve then and
I wrote songs and took lead roles in
the choir until my family moved to
Agege where my father has his house.
Then I changed school and became a
leader in the school’s fellowship.
When we started out and people
asked us for our album, we asked
ourselves if we were that good.
At that time we were thinking of doing
something to make the fellowship
more vibrant, because we were losing
young people to secular clubs. So we
started a group we called All for Christ
because we were four. However, a
friend later told us that name wasn ’t
original enough because it readily
reminds you of All for One, the R and B
sensation of the eighties. That we
should think of something else. So we
thought of different names and came
up with Infinity. That was how the
group came to be. From the excos of
the fellowship in school.
That was how we started getting
invitations from outside the school,
and people would ask us for our
album. At that point we began asking
ourselves if we were that good,
because we never saw ourselves as
good enough to do an album. We were
just having fun. The four of us, and
another person joined us. And at some
point we started adjusting to the vision
and Infinity ’s Olori Oko album was
launched in 2006, it became a hit and
the rest is history.
We couldn’t afford to translate the
first idea we had for Olori Oko
video. As a team what we did was sit
down and critique several musical
videos, because we wanted ours to be
the best. So we ’ll sit and play the songs
over and over, because we wanted
something very grand. The first idea
that came was like a Zulu movie,
depicting war, with the lord of the
army coming in.
An African man tall and regal, but that
was going to cost us a lot, and we
didn ’t have the money. So we thought
of how to streamline and still pass
across the message. Then Sunny
suggested we did a drum thing and
ideas started flowing. And we thought
Dayo Liadi whom we had met
previously could do the dance. So it
became a subjective idea, whereas
what we thought initially was to
literally depict a war scene, and a war
hero coming on the scene.
Before then, we had a few stints with
arts practitioners like Mr. Wale
Macaulay, grandson of Herbert
Macaulay. It was actually on the set of
his play, The Rape of Gidiolu, that we
met Dayo. It was a socio-political
drama and we handled the music
aspect while Dayo handled the dance.
We were camped on Snake Island for
the production for a month, after
which we did a presentation at the
National Arts Theatre, and it was
beautiful. For us, it was a taste of the
arts and the experience remains
memorable for me.
When I left Infinity
Some people said I was crazy, but I was
convinced it was the next thing for me
to do.
I was convinced it was the next thing
to do, we had been together for
eleven years. Having been together for
that long, we had set out to achieve
certain things, and I ’m the kind of
person that likes to take stock of what
I ’ve done. For example, after you’ve
gone I will take stock of things that I
did in the course of the day.
I do that a lot and I was convinced it
was the next thing to do. It wasn ’t easy
for me, because it was at a time the
group was at it ’s peak. We were
enjoying a lot of favour and goodwill.
We were traveling. We just came back
from the UK, things were rosy and
good. ill date I ’ve heard people say, I
was either really just courageous
obeying God or simply crazy to have
done what I did at that time.
It’s not true that I left the group
because the others were distracted
by the opposite sex.
If I may throw this back to you, if
perhaps there was any truth in that, do
you think I would be the one
spreading that about? Would it be my
job to squeal on them? Of course, you
would expect me to call them, and talk
to them. Even if I would leave on that
basis, it shouldn ’t be me spreading the
story. And I would say categorically
that my leaving the team was not on
that basis. I attribute all that to yellow
journalism.
I love them and I miss them. Oh God, I
miss them sometimes!
But for now we need to give space so
that people can differentiate Kenny
K ’ore from Infinity.
For now, I don’t perform with the
group. No, because that would be
confusing people. If you say you ’ve
left, let people see that you left,
instead of hanging around with them.
I ’m sure sometime in the future, we
may be doing things together but for
now, a lot of people are yet to accept
that I left, so we need to give that
space for people to really know that
this is Kenny K ’ore, and that is Infinity.
They’ve recorded an album but it’s not
out yet. I think they are shooting the
video. They ’ve been doing some
promo on Radio.
On my part, I’ve been promoting my
album titled Eledumare, that’s the one
that has Yannibo. I don’t know if you’re
familiar with folktales of the tortoise.
The tortoise will be a metaphor for a
greedy, sly, cunning and evil person.
Usually they say behind every great
man, there is a great woman. Behind
every bad man too, there is a bad
woman. So the tortoise has a wife and
usually in folklore, his wife ’s name is
Yannibo . So the idea came from there.
Basically she is the everyday woman,
who likes a guy who unfortunately is
married, and she didn ’t know how to
deal with that. And she wanted to
force the guy into a relationship.
The idea behind Yannibo is to erase
the notion that men can ’t resist
seduction.
The idea is not to paint women as
Yannibo , as bad people. I wanted to
fight the idea that almost every
woman out there has. That men cannot
resist seduction. The belief is that even
with the best of us, the pastors, “make
the woman just shake body, e go fall”.
Though there is a level of truth in that,
but we need to fight that kind of
thinking. Our generation is formed by
ideas. And how do you fight an idea?
You fight it with another idea usually a
better one. What I ’m trying to do with
that song is that I want every man that
listens to that song to be able to say
“ Yes, I can do it! I will not yield to
temptation, I’ll be faithful to my wife”.
I’m normal like every other guy
The thing is I’m a very normal guy,
which means every normal weakness
that the average guy has, I have them
too. I ’m so like that. However I love
God, and I see that people perceive me
like that, “This one is a child of God”,
and that matters to me a lot. We don’t
have that a lot anymore. Our
generation is moving towards the
precipice, everyday our musical videos
are always about sex.
If they’re not about sex, it’s about
money, about greed, it’s about lust,
everything negative, everything anti-
Christ, anti-good nature and character.
It ’s out of character, out of custom, out
of tradition, it’s just crazy. The fact that
our government, music censors board
or whatever is allowing this
outrageous trend. is bad.
So if you have one guy, a lady out
there who can still be an embodiment
of light, embodiment of what we used
to be in terms of culture, respect,
character, in terms of everything that is
scriptural, why would you want to
trade that off for momentary pleasure
of sleeping around. It just doesn ’t
make sense to me.
I once lied to wriggle out of
temptation
At a time I was in a relationship with a
very good friend of mine. I think I still
care about her but we just realized
that we couldn ’t go on and we
amicably settled to just remain friends.
But while I was in a relationship with
her, I was in the UK and I met this lady.
She was very beautiful, and then we
went to this eatery which also doubles
as a library. It overlooks the city of
London. We sat at a table, we got
books, tea and small chops, and we
were talking. That moment was like a
dream come true for me.
It was a picture perfect scene but I was
already committed to someone. And
that dampened the whole atmosphere.
So while I and this lady were together,
I felt there was chemistry, and I didn ’t
like it, because I felt it was wrong. I
had somebody back here at home, that
I was committed to. So while I was
talking to the lady, I just said, “Ah! I
miss my girlfriend”, whereas it was a
lie. The last thing on my mind at that
time was missing her. I wasn ’t missing
her ; infact I was wishing she wasn’t in
my life(laughter). But I needed to do
that at that moment, and the magic
disappeared because I brought in my
girlfriend, and I felt bad.
Naturally she was already warming up
to it but of course now knowing that I
was attached, any self respecting lady
will ease out, which was what
happened. I saw all that and didn ’t like
it, but in the long run, I can sit with you
and talk about it and I ’m proud I was
able to do the right thing. That was
why I sang in Yannibo. You look at me
like I am cruel, but I ’m not an ordinary
man, I fear the Lord, I have a wife and a
son. I ’m going to do what is right,
though it seems so hard. Then I go, ‘so
hard baby’ like it’s painful.
Why I’m into music
We sang Olori Oko mainly in English
and Yoruba, then we spoke in tongues
a lot. Speaking in tongues is a
deliberate thing that I decided to do in
most of my projects because Jude said
in the Bible, “Building up yourselves
on your most holy faith, praying in the
Holy Ghost ”. Speaking in tongues is a
Christian reality, it is one of our most
holy faith, when we pray. I felt like we
should flaunt it. These other guys they
flaunt bling, bling, they even tell us
they smoke igbo. They show girls that
are shaking their backsides in their
videos. What are we proud of?
Americans flaunt their heritage
(culture). I ’m a Christian ; is there
anything in my heritage as a Christian
that I can just flaunt, and be proud of?
That’s why I do what I do.
Music is not what I’m doing to make a
name or just to put food on my table.
It ’s something I’m doing to make a
mark in my generation, so I have to do
research. I won ’t just get a catchy
phrase and just put a rhythm together
and put beats together, no. People still
refer to people like Bob Marley , Fela,
Ebenezer Obey, and Sunny Ade. Their
music is still relevant today. If it was
just something they were just
lackadaisical about, their songs won’t
be evergreen. They would have passed
with time.
There is a song I have, I got the lyrics,
the rhythm, melody in a dream. I woke
up, took my recorder and took
everything, however you still need to
work. Sometimes I want to say
something in Yoruba, I don ’t want to
use the Lagos dialect but the very deep
ones, so I consult with my mum or
other elderly persons. My mum is from
Ogbomoso in Oyo State while my dad
is from Abeokuta in Ogun State.
I chose the name K’ore because it
speaks to my destiny
K’ore simply means ‘Ku
orire’(Congratulations). I wanted
something artistic, something very
African that is meaningful and can
speak over my life, because I believe
there is something in a name.
Oftentimes people don ’t realize this
when they call themselves funny
names. Those names answer over their
lives. Call it my bias, but I ’m convinced
there’s something in a name. I thought
about several names, there’s one I love
so much, Theodore-it means lover of
God, but I decided against it because it
isn ’t African. and I wanted a name that
will reflect my heritage. I’m proudly
African, I’m proudly Nigerian, and I
want to flaunt it. So K’ore is a
shortened form of Ku orire. It’s a name
that is speaking over my life and
speaking over my destiny.
Three things convinced me that music
is my calling
One, because one is gifted . Two, being
passionate about it, and three because
you have the know-how. God will not
call you into an area in which you ’re
not gifted, or passionate about. If
someone ’s trying to find his area of
calling, the first thing he’ll be told is to
first find his area of passion, his gifts,
and to develop himself in that area.
And one wouldn ’t have strayed too far
from that calling. For me I’ve noticed
that I was gifted in this area. In fact, if I
had counsel earlier, I wouldn ’t have
done science. I could have just stayed
in the arts, because I can paint, write,
and of course play music.
Gospel is gift, it’s sacrifice…but there
should be a balance
I think whatever you are doing, the
motive should be beyond money. Even
if it ’s secular music and especially
when it’s gospel, it should definitely
not just be about you because gospel is
gift. It ’s sacrifice, it’s a ministry, but
there should be a balance. Oftentimes I
come to a point that I ’m thinking, any
form of extreme is bad, whether to the
left wing or the right wing. The Bible
itself is a book of balance such that
Jesus would say “do this, but do not
leave this undone”. Such that they
would say, do not muzzle the ox that
threads the corn, don ’t put money
ahead.
He said “seek ye first the kingdom…”.
Then He said after seeking the
kingdom, “all of these things would be
added to you”. He knows you need
them. That’s the point I want most of
our pastors and churches to realize.
When we put ministry first, like I ’m
doing, Paul said “I’ve ministered unto
you spiritual things, now you minister
to me …” You look at me, listened to
my project, looked at my life, see
where I may need help. Don ’t make
me ask you to do it, because I will not
charge you, I will minister to you
spiritual things.
The reason why we have issues now
with gospel artistes and churches on
charging fees or not is because a lot of
gospel artistes have realized that it ’s a
jungle out there, nobody cares. You
will spend money to do quality
production. I ’ve spent over N3.5
million and I’m still spending on my
project. You spend money to put
yourself on TV, do a great video,
promote videos but guess what
happens these days? I dare say
churches are not inviting you, because
you are anointed .
They are inviting you because you’re
the happening thing. You’re the rave
of the moment. If you come to church,
more people will troop after you, and
come. All of that costs money but then
you do it. And then they give you an
envelope containing N10,000,
N20,000 or N30,000. That ’s ridiculous .
You’re not singing any less than the
secular artiste. Infact, in most cases, the
gospel artistes are better vocally.
The average lifespan of a secular
album ranges from four to six months
whereas that of a gospel album ranges
between six to ten years and more.
Midnight Crew ’s Igwe is still selling,
Infinity’s Olori Oko is still selling, and I
think Asa is an evergreen. She will sell
forever. A lot of all these swagger,
ginger, just name them, their lifespan
is between four and six months. At the
end of the day when we look at it , one
is perhaps better than these guys, yet
they are raking in money in their
millions. And the church doesn ’t seem
to understand that. Gospel music is a
strong tool of evangelism. If you play it
down, you ’re pulling down the
salvation and the sanity in a lot of
churches.
Many of the secular artistes that are
singing dirty songs today were church
people, but I don ’t blame them in a
way, because when they were in the
church nobody reckoned with them.
But now, they do one hit track and
they are buying houses in Lekki, they
are riding Bentley, living large. My
project(album) was given to about
three secular labels and they were like
men …if this guy was only secular. I’d
probably be in money by now, getting
endorsements, maybe I ’ll get a Bentley
or something close. It’ll come in Jesus
name, it usually does. I’m not saying all
these, because I feel sorry for myself.
I ’m saying this, because it’s an issue
that should be addressed. In any case,
I ’ve always known that even if they
don’t do it, if you’re faithful to God
who called you, He will be faithful to
you.
Of course I miss having a ride
especially in Lagos
How it has been since I left Infinity? If
you ’re talking about shows, yes I still
have shows but can’t compare with
when I was with the group. I’m not
even trying to compare, I’m convinced
it was the next thing for me to do and I
have my peace. God has been faithful.
I gave out my car, a BMW Coupe but do
you know my prayer everyday,? Father
have your way, just have your way
with me. Even if it ’s going to be hard
for me, help me to obey you. I love God
more than my reputation. When the
scripture says, “the life I live, I live in
Christ, the life I have is not my own”,
I’ve often noticed in my life that
anytime I have a strong sense of God in
it, for whatever I might lose, I get
peace of mind.
Of course I miss having a ride
especially in Lagos but it ’s ok. I can live
with myself. I feel I obeyed God. You
know there was something God
wanted me to do, and I never did it?
And it still haunts me till today. I still
had that car then. God told me to drop
the car, enter a molue, carry Infinity CD
and just share my testimony, no
preaching. But I was too shy to do that
and it haunts me. Anytime God asks me
to do something and I don ’t, I lose my
peace.
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