Celebrate Cheryl Cole's 30th birthday with these 30 facts

Cheryl Cole is celebrating her 30th birthday this Sunday. The glamorous singer is said to have pulled out all the stops to welcome in her third decade, having planned a lavish £50,000 party for her family friends.

"Awwww!!! Thank you all sooo much for my birthday wishes," tweeted bithday girl Cheryl to her near four million followers. "You are the sweetest!!!!!!"



Back in April the Fight for this Love singer revealed she was looking forward to turning 30.

"I was like I've had an incredible decade in this industry, with the highs and the lows," she said. "30 is a very empowering age for me. I feel the best I've ever felt."

As Cheryl parties the night away with cocktails and dancing, to mark her milestone birthday HELLO! Online has found 30 interesting facts about the nation's favourite Geordie.

BBA:‘I didn’t see my eviction coming’

Botswana’s representative, Motamma,became an unlucky victim to the BBA swapping system in the nomination process last week.

Diamonds head of house, Annabel who was up for eviction, saved herself and placed Motamma up for eviction.

Speaking about the eviction process, Motamma said it came as a surprise that she was replaced.

“It shocked me, she could not look at me. Last Friday night when we were chatting, she kept saying she does not regret her swap and that it’s nothing personal. Little did I know it was me.

*Motamma

“I hugged her when exiting the house, she could not look at me. It’s all a game and it could have happened to anyone. I didn’t see my eviction coming. It took me by surprise,”  Motamma  told  HVP on the telephone.

The bubbly Botswana’s housemate  said she enjoyed  the BBA experience.’ “It was a wonderful experience. I enjoyed myself in the house.”

“Life goes on, I had a wonderful experience. I am an opportunist going home with a smile and love to get into radio.”

Motamma is a scientific researcher,  and a teacher who holds a BSc  degree  in Agriculture. Interestingly, she’s still rolling the wheels of her education.

- See more at: http://www.vanguardngr.com/2013/06/bbai-didnt-see-my-eviction-coming/#sthash.7V1jk9QM.dpuf

Saka headlines Nite of A Thousand Laughs

Reigning comic actor, Hafiz Oyetoro, popularly known as Saka who is fast proving himself as an enigma in the nation’s entertainment industry,  is poised to take the centre stage as Opa Williams’ A Night of Thousand Laughs’ show berths in Lagos.

Opa Williams made this disclosure through his publicist, Media Image Managers, MIM.

For Opa, this year’s edition is bound to be a special one as the show which began in 1995, is marking its 18th anniversary on October 1, in Lagos.

Hafiz Oyetoro aka Saka

“At 18, a child has become an adult and as such has to evolve in character and attain self-reliance. Against this backdrop, this year’s edition of ‘Nite of A Thousand Laughs’ will take on a different shape and size because at 18, we have attained adulthood.

We have stayed on top for 18 years as the premier comedy brand and you know staying on top is the hardest part of the game. No comedy show in Nigeria is above 13 years of age at the moment, but we have been able to sustain our dominance for 18 years,” Opa said, adding, “While we celebrate, we should also be mindful of the fact that people who troop out to watch our shows yearly deserve to get more value for their money every time they come out. So this year, we will ensure the audience members laugh a thousand times as the brand’s name implies.”

Speaking further, Opa assured that unlike the previous editions, this year’s Nite of A Thousand Laughs’ promises to be different . “It will not be about some comedians and musicians climbing the stage and entertaining the audience.”We are introducing something unique this year that will make the audience truly laugh a thousand times. But  we are keeping that under the hat for now.”

With Saka making his debut at the show after the distinct roles he has played in movies, drama series, including his humorous advert campaigns for telecommunications company, Etisalat, and now, MTN, this year’s  Nite of A Thousand Laughs promises to be nothing less in terms of fun and grooving.

- See more at: http://www.vanguardngr.com/2013/06/saka-headlines-nite-of-a-thousand-laughs/#sthash.2eXzYOHJ.dpuf

I feel naked without a cap – Buchi

Buchi Atuonwu is a gospel reggae legend who once  combined his singing career with a lecturing job. In this interview with Showtime Celebrity , he shares his experiences as a gospel artiste and some of the challenges he has faced in the past.

You said you have been in the music industry for over 29 years. Was there any formal training before you delved into music?

I did some informal training. Training in the sense that, before I became a Christian, I was already playing reggae music and that served as a training for me. So, when I became a Christian, there arose a need for me to sing and I was already equipped with enough exposure to reggae music. I was a night club DJ at  ‘Floating Buka’ in Victoria Island, Lagos, a club that was in a ship along Marina.

Then, I used to play with Ras Kimono who was a DJ there too at that time. In fact, it was he ( Ras Kimono) who invited me over to come and play there with him. That was precisely between 1987 and 1988. Then, I was a postgraduate student at University of Lagos. Thereafter, I went for my doctorate degree in English Language in the same institution. I was also teaching in the Department.

*Buchi

While I was doing all that, I continued with my DJ work. You can see, it was an odd combination. Yet, I continued until Jesus found me in 1992, when I moved over to the church from the club.

Would you say that the DJ work was borne out of passion or a source of livelihood for you?

No, it has nothing to do with pay. I was not paid then for the DJ work. It was borne out of passion. I was doing it for the passion I had for reggae music.

What do you mean by ‘when you became a Christian?’ What kind of formal training did you have before going into gospel reggae music?

The informal training I meant was my time as a DJ in that club and the club was a reggae club. I was not a born-again Christian then. And I am of the opinion that you are not a Christian until you are born again.

Why did you choose to sing gospel reggae?

I didn’t choose gospel muisc, gospel music chose me. I didn’t choose reggae as well; reggae did. Reggae chose me when I was young, it appealed to me greatly and I began to listen to reggae music. I had a wonderful romance with reggae music as a child and listened mostly to Jamaican music, and that shaped my sense of music. When Terracotta, Ras Kimono and Majek were making their album and I was a DJ in the club, I had already fallen in love with reggae music.

So, as you can see, reggae chose me very early. And then as I said, gospel chose me in the sense that Jesus found me and put a message in my mouth. My style of music is not gospel, there is no type of music called gospel. Gospel is the message of the music. But in terms of style, you can have reggae, pop, rock R n B among others. In terms of message, you can use your medium or style to speak of whatever you believe. I believe in gospel, so my message is strictly gospel. That’s how the combination came about.

Most reggae artistes we know in Nigeria speak Patois. Would you say that is one of the criteria for being a reggae musician?

Reggae is a culture; it has a language, history and style and when you practice reggae music, you cannot totally divest its culture. You cannot totally alienate the sound from its surrounding culture. That’s why you see most reggae artistes speaking Patois. Reggae was born in Africa but was raised in the Caribbeans. And so, the Jamaican and Caribbean Patois came with the language of the reggae music.

So, as you can see, you cannot totally move away from the language. I tried as much as possible to do that because I found a need to communicate my message to my people, knowing the importance of my message and that is the reason I have cut down the use of that language. It has a style. Most reggae artistes wear dreadlocks but I don’t wear dreadlocks – even when I was much younger.

What would you say has been the biggest challenge you have ever had while on stage?

I have relayed this story several times on how I was asked to leave the stage publicly because it was a crusade. It was a Christian crusade and when I began to play my music, the organizers began to complain, ‘who brought this person to this stage?’ And they told me to get off the stage but people were enjoying my music. They didn’t seem to listen to my music, they were listening to the beat. They were watching my dance steps; they were looking at the outward not the wordings.

*Buchi

Are you the cap wearing type?

I am a cap wearing fellow. It is something I love to do. I love the way it makes me feel. I feel naked without the cap. It is something I love doing, it brings me close to the people I want to reach. To me, what becomes of the ordinary man in the street matters  and not necessarily that of the high and mighty in the society.

I feel I am the man so I dress in the way they can freely relate to me without fear. I don’t want to look different for them to confide in me. I want to dress in a way they can access me and find me approachable.

Was music on your mind while growing up?

Yes, music was on my mind but being a musician was certainly not on my mind. I recalled that my greatest moments were the times I enjoyed this romance with music, when I would sit alone and sing to myself. I didn’t sing to entertain  people. I only sang for myself most often as a child.

Were you a smoker before now and how were you able to overcome the habit?

I don’t want to give you a cheap headline. But what I know is that, to stop any habit is very difficult especially when you allow that habit to eat deep into you. The easiest way to leave a habit is to receive Christ. I walked clean away from smoking. The last time I smoked was on 30th of December 1992. I never smoked again since then.

Aside music, what else do you do for a living?

I write. I recently published a book titled, “Ceasefire,” The book is a story of campus cultism because I was involved in it. It tells the story, not to indict anybody but it tells you everything that you need to know about campus cultism.I wrote the book not with the intention of exposing anybody, but with the intention of exposing the system. The greatest tragedy about cultism is that, the members and the initiates do not really understand the meaning and implications of the system.

People find themselves in trenches of war before they know what the war is all about. I also published a book called, “Behind the Songs” which is an anthology, a collection of poems and song lyrics. It also tells the inspiration behind the songs. Something inspired me to sing “It is Well” and  other soul-lifting songs.

How many albums do you have so far?

I have about five audio albums and  two video albums. My sixth album is due to be released soon. I  just came out of the studio last month. It is titled, “Over the years”. It’s a collection of songs that I have released and re-worked for today’s audience. There are some songs I have released some 15 to 20 years ago and I know they are evergreen. So, I need to do something on them because, some of them, I didn’t express myself the way I had wanted to. I need to rework them.

- See more at: http://www.vanguardngr.com/2013/06/i-feel-naked-without-a-cap-buchi/#sthash.jsK6PqEm.dpuf

Muna Part Ways with Management Company RMG

…Sets up Own Record Label, ‘No Koncience’

JUNE 30, 2013 

Rapper Munachi Abi says she has parted ways with Ayo Shonaiya’s management label RMG, according to TheNET.

In an interview with Charles Mgbolu ofThe Vanguard, the beauty queen turned rapper disclosed that her reason for leaving RMG was because she ‘needed to become a little bit more independent’.

“I needed to become a little bit more independent and you know one needs to grow. I have learnt how to handle things on my own and become responsible.

“It was something I needed to do because one cannot continue to be under someone’s wings forever. There comes a time when you have to spread you own wings and fly”, she explained.

She also took time to explain that her past altercation with Modenine was not the cause for her split with RMG. “I left RMG because I needed to start up my own thing; there was nothing more to it. I have no issues whatsoever with RMG”, Muna added.

Muna also revealed that she has launched her own record label ‘No Koncience‘ where she released her new single ‘No tomorrow‘. Her debut album tentatively titled ‘The Goddess, The Hustler’ will be released shortly.

I don’t have a daughter out of wedlock – Benita Nzeribe - 

Benita Nzeribe started out as a teen star in Nollywood and later grew into adulthood long before the industry started experiencing the boom it now enjoys. Though quick to say she got into the industry by accident, the light-complexioned beau has carved a niche for herself. That is why her endorsement as Ambassador for two separate institutions is not a surprise. In this interview, she talks about her career, endorsements and refutes  the rumour making the rounds that she has a love child.

It seems your love for acting has vanished ?

How do you mean ? I’m still and will remain an actress.

But you’ve been away  from the big screen for some time now. What have you been up to ?

I was really not away . One thing about entertainment is that no one ever leaves it . I have been around and I’m active. I do jobs that come my way but I am a very patient person and not swayed at all . I have not been away from the big screen. I just have a different project and responsibility on my shoulders and I’m moving on by the grace of God .

What are some of those projects you’re currently handling ?

As you very well know,  I am a UN Peace Ambassador and as such stand for world peace . Ambassadors work towards peace from the grassroots. Personally, I am more convinced than ever before that there should be peace in the inner mind of every human being created by God. Sadly, not every human being has been able to discover that inner mind and access the peace that is much needed for  its growth and development for success .

World peace is still a tall order in our world today.  However, nothing is impossible with God . I shall continue to call on Him for strength and direction as I pursue this awesome assignment. World peace must be achieved to an impressive  percentage .

Benita Nzeribe

Secondly, as the Air Safety Ambassador of Nigeria which was bestowed on me by the Nigerian Airspace Management Agency (NAMA), there is also a job to do . The aviation sector has recorded huge achievements under this present administration . Furthermore, I will be on location in less than two weeks from now  for the shoot of their international classic  TV commercial, It’s a big project; I can tell you that .

Also, I am presently recording the Malta Guinness Low Sugar Game show with Emeka Enyiocha as my co- presenter . It’s hitting the screen soon and I can tell you, it’s going to be a great show . I will be on location immediately after the NAMA TVC and thereafter, I will embark on an official trip out of the country as NAMA Ambassador .

How did you secure all these deals?

Well, let’s say that it’s God at work and the fruits of my labour  as an actress

On the UN Ambassadorship, I was called upon to come and receive it. The fact that I grew from a teenager to an adult in Nollywood and have contributed to the growth of the industry and written my name in gold opened those doors for me .

So you must be swimming in money now ?.

Swimming in money? Hmm. Well, I have always believed in sacrifice first before reaping, and that has worked out well for me. God has been putting smiles on my face little by little. I must appreciate Him for that. But swimming in money? Not yet.

So what was growing up like for you?

Growing up was fun because I have disciplined parents. I went to a Convent school and I think that explains how I came about my disciplined self.

Could you share  with us some  of those boring experiences  you had while growing?

All I can remember  is that all the partying that has to do with teens was never part of my experience. But I guess, it helped me to keep disciplined till date.

Do you regret not being allowed to enjoy your childhood days?

I don’t feel like I missed out at all. In fact, it’s rare to see me in a night club because I have been fashioned that way. It’s not like I’m saying it’s wrong to party, everyone should just do whatever makes them happy.

Since you attended a Convent school, how did you come about acting?

My getting into acting was never planned. My debut role in ‘Beyond Our Dreams’ was just meant to be.

So, acting was an accidental thing for you. What were you doing before acting?

*Benita at an event

I was in school then. So, my girlfriend and I came to Lagos for holidays in my elder brother’s house, Hon.Chuma Nzeribe. One day,  we decided to just stroll around for sight seeing and we stumbled on  an audition for a soap. We wanted to just see what they were up to and why so many people gathered there. It was curiosity and one thing led to another. I was called upon to be tried because they were actually searching for that character of a female lead. I was auditioned and the rest is history.

I heard you wanted to be a Reverend Sister?

That’s not true. I just went to a Convent school because my father believed there is more discipline and a better quality of education there. I didn’t attend the school because I was aspiring to be a Reverend Sister.

So, weren’t your parents disappointed that you chose acting after  the discipline and values instilled in you at the Convent school?

There was nothing to feel disappointed about. It’s a profession just like every other one. My parents are educated so they understood that I was doing my job. I have my limits as an African woman.

What are your limits?

I can never go naked!

I overheard you calling someone ‘Daddy’ on the phone?

Ha! that was my father in the Lord, my pastor.

So, who is the lucky man?

Soon, you will find out.

Does that mean there’s a man in your life?

I’m sure you don’t expect me to have a woman in my life. Well, it’s not yet ripe to talk about that for now. But I’ll surely inform you at the right time.

How’s your daughter doing?

My daughter? Which daughter? Where is the daughter and from whom? This is really funny, and the first time ever a journalist will be asking me about a daughter. I have none for now but will definitely get one once I’m married. Don’t be in a hurry.

But we learnt that you’re a single mother

Wow! I’m not, please. That’s definitely not true. Why would I hide my blood from anyone if I had a daughter? Children are blessings from God so I would flaunt her to the world if I did. Relax, I will soon get there by God’s Grace. People saying that should take a chill pill and wait.

‘All I Wanted Was Your Waist’ – Iyanya Replies Yvonne Nelson

 JUNE 30, 2013 - 

In what seemed like a calculated marketing ploy, Iyanya has replied Yvonne Nelson’s open hearted interview with Bella Naija a week back, where she confessed to have “really loved him”.

In the interview, the actress who is also a movie producer said: “We dated for 7 to 8 months. We had something and I thought it was special, like he was a wonderful guy…”

As part of media coverage for his and Emma Nyra's recently concluded tour of the UK, Iyanya in a freestyle session on the Tim Westwood show revealed that he hadn’t loved Yvonne Nelson like she loved him.

While freestyling his ‘Kukere’ and ‘Your Waist’ songs, he had said: “Yvonne Nelson, I lost your medicine. Yvonne Nelson, I have your medicine. She called that she’s coming over and I ride her like a jangolova. All I want is your waist, no emotions, no tears, no letters, no love, no nothing. All I want is your waist, she ain’t even know it. She brought emotions.

Photographer Sues Tuface, Annie over Wedding Pictures

JUNE 30, 2013 - 

Abuja-based photographer, Emmanuel Okolo alongside his studio, Papilonmexy have filed a suit against pop musician, TuFace, his wife, Annie Idibia and their manager, Anthonio Anifite over photographs allegedly taken at the traditional wedding of the musician and his wife in Akwa Ibom State.

Okolo is asking for six reliefs, two of which include N100 million in general damages and N20million in exemplary damages, according to the Vanguard.

In the writ of summons, Okolo and his studio claimed they were contracted by TuFace’s wife through a third party, identified as Ms Chineze Anyaene to take photo shots at the traditional wedding held in Eket, Akwa Ibom State on March, 2013.

The plaintiff said, he was reluctant at the beginning since the offer was coming through a third party, but later accepted after he was convinced that the offer was actually with the blessing of the first defendant.

Annie Idibia was said to have later contacted the photographer after the wedding and demanded for the printing of 10 of the high resolution pictures taken.

At the resumed hearing of the case Friday, neither TuFace nor his wife was represented in court. Justice Mohammed Idris of the Federal High Court sitting in Lagos has fixed October 16, 2013 for the commencement of trial.

Dr Sid Buys out a Cinema Hall to Watch ‘Man of Steel’ with 200 Fans

JUNE 30, 2013

To say thank you to his fans who have been supporting him for the years he’s been singing, Mavin Doctor, Dr Sid bought 200 movie tickets for 200 lucky fans to watch ‘Man of Steel’ with him on Saturday June 22, 2013. Now this is what we call fan-love.

Being an avid fan of the ‘superman’ movie franchise, Dr. Sid wanted to be one of the first people to see it, but along with his fans reported Bella Naija. This gesture of fan-love was done in partnership with Tripican.com, an online discounted movie ticketing website.

Read what Dr Sid had to say in a quick interview with Bella Naija:

“So last week, I hung out with 200 of my fans and friends at the Genesis Deluxe Cinemas, at the Palms for a private screening of the new Superman Movie “Man of Steel”.  I am a big movie fan and I wanted to share a movie experience with some of the most important people to me.

My fans have made me who I am; they have supported me for 10 years now. So this is one of my little ways of showing that I appreciate them all. I had a lot of fun at the cinema plus the movie was amazing.

I want to say a big thank you to all the ticket winners that came through and my Mavin fam – Don Jazzy, Tiwa Savage, Altims, Babyfresh, Tega, Bizzle, Otoide, not forgetting Tunde Ednut.”

Munachi Abii: I Like a True Gentleman

…'One who doesn’t sag his pants'

 JUNE 30, 2013 - 

In an interview about her life, relationship and career and love for Dubai, rapper Munachi Abii, known as Muna for short, has revealed what she finds attractive in a man.

According to Muna: “I find it hot when a guy wears Tom Ford cologne, dresses good, looks good and doesn’t sag his pants. I like a true gentleman,” she told Bella Naija’s Onos O.

She also discussed the lesson she’s learnt from her altercation with fellow rappper Mode Nine. “The whole experience taught me that there’s a lot of learning that needs to go on between individuals.

“First of all, temper and tantrums – everyone needs to learn to control their temper, myself and Mode Nine included. Secondly, friendship and respect is important. I have respect for Mode Nine and he has respect for me.”

Asked who she was dating, she said: “The people that know, know and it’s not like I’m hiding who I’m dating, it’s just that I’m very private about my relationship. If you know, it’s all well and good. If you don’t, it’s still all well and good.” She did reveal though that “he’s very funny.”

Michael Jackson Abused Over Two Dozen Boys – FBI Secret File

| JUNE 30, 2013 -

Late king of pop, Michael Jackson is said to have been obsessed with child porn and paid $35 million in “hush money” to at least two dozen young boys he sexually abused over 15 years, many of whom were the sons of friends.

A 'Secret FBI file’ suggests the King of Pop groomed and molested children from at least 1989.

The damning files claim the deceased popstar was a 'pedophile' who watched porn while assaulting a boy, molested a famous child star, fondled a child’s genitals in his private cinema and groped another child whose mother wasn’t ‘bothered’ by it, according to the Daily Mail.

Although the Jackson family lawyers keep insisting the star has only paid off the family of Jordan Chandler, 13, who he allegedly abused in 1993, however a sleuth hired by Anthony Pellicano – a celebrity private eye Jackson allegedly hired to make the pedophilia claims go away – has claimed Jackson was a ‘serial child predator’ who paid out scores of children he allegedly abused at his Neverland Ranch, continues the Daily Mail.

Only recently did Jackson’s former child friend Wade Robson revealed he was abused by Jackson. Australian-born Robson, a dancer and choreographer, recently launched a major lawsuit against the Jackson estate, saying he was regularly molested at Neverland in the 1990s, reports the Daily Mail.

The FBI secret file is said to contain documents naming 17 boys that included a European boy and the sons of a screenwriter. “The sleuth said at least three boys were paid to stay silent, with the family of a famous film actor given about $596,300 not to talk to the media.”

Also it is being said that a Neverland maid was allegedly paid $2 million after accusing her boss of molesting her son, while another woman who knew her son was being assaulted ‘turned a blind eye to it because if it didn’t bother him, it didn’t bother her’.

We Are Sensitising People Against Trafficking In Persons’ 

United Nations Goodwill Ambassador, MI popularly referred to as ‘the Chairman’ is one of the most inspiring hip-hop artistes in Nigeria. The talented rapper, who has been engaged in nationwide campaign against trafficking in persons and smuggling of migrants, spoke with UCHE UDUMA about his latest song, ‘the Chairman,’ Chocolate City label’s operation in Kenya among other issues

How has it been working as United Nation’s Ambassador since 2012?

It is a great honour to be selected as a United Nations ambassador but there are still a lot of works for me to do. We are just getting started, the first part, I have spent more on orientation. I have learnt a lot and amassed lots of experience on the issue. Right now, the real work is starting off.

What are the issues we have with trafficking in person and smuggling of migrants?

It is a very serious issue, basically the problem of illegal migration is what most young people indulge in now, may be someone can tell his friends that he has an uncle that takes people to Europe and within three to four days you will be there. Only for you to go half way and be left stranded with no other option than to resort to crime, which will leave you exposed to xenophobic armed forces that hate Nigerians and want to kill them.

The women could be raped and shot; it is a very horrendous experience. Most people who survive it have same story of regrets. We are trying to sensitise people not to lose their lives. If you want to travel abroad, there are proper ways to go about it. Most importantly, if you want to secure your future, you need to work here in Nigeria and invest in Nigeria; you don’t need to go outside. These are some of the messages we are trying to pass across.

Your latest song ‘the chairman’ has been the rave of the moment, can you tell us about the song?

When people hear the song, they will say, why is MI bragging. I am not, the reason why I wrote the song is because everywhere I go, people call me chairman. I did an album titled ‘the chairman,’ I wrote the songs to enable people know how I got to where I am today because I know that a lot of young people are looking up to me. And I just want them to know that if you do what I did, you will get to where you are aiming at.

There was a rumour that your song, ‘The Chairman’ was meant to counter a song by Olamide, which says a certain chairman should take things easy and calm down?

It is so, so untrue I was chatting with Olamide last week (He brings out his phone to show the chat) you can see it for yourself, we were talking about doing music in Nigeria. So there is no beef between us, I do not have any beef with him. Olamide is such an exciting and vibrant young artist that I will personally fight anybody who tries to get at him.

Early this year, one of Chocolate City’s artistes, Jesse Jags pulled away from the record label, and recently Brymo said he will be pulling out too, do you see that as a threat to the record label?

Jesse’s case is unique because Jesse has worked very well for the label, he has done very well and Jesse did not leave chocolate city, he was released by Chocolate City to do a project that he wanted to do. The difference is that the information came from Jesse and not from Chocolate City, so everyone assumed that there was a problem. He has a project that he felt will be best for him at that period.

Now Brymo’s case is a little bit different because as much as he wants to leave Chocolate City, he has a contract he must fulfill. So, the situations are different and personally, I don’t think anybody leaving or staying is a threat to a record label.  But I would just say that it is not a good idea for anybody to leave a contract, to be released is a different thing but to leave a contract, I do not think is a good idea, because there are very negative and serious implications to that.

So is chocolate city going to sue, if Brymo leaves his contract?

Like I said he has not left, these are legal stuffs and I should not even be talking about it. Somebody tweeting, saying that he has left the contract does not mean he has left the contract.

Chocolate city recently extended its operation to Kenya, can you tell us about the Kenyan version?

Yes we were in Kenya; we went to Kenya to extend our family. The family is growing well, we already have a fantastic artist called Vicroria Kimani, we may be looking at one or two more partnerships and we are excited about what Kenya offers, because it is such a beautiful place with great music, people with vibrant music and culture, we are just happy to be part of them.

So can you compare the music industry in Kenya with what we have in Nigeria?

The difference is that Nigeria music industry is a little faster than that of Kenya, but their music and their culture is so rich that we have a lot to learn from them too. So it is a good balance and I think the African story is one of unique cultures coming together to groove. We are going to learn from them and they are going to learn from us as well. So they are different but there is a whole lot of learning for the two countries.

How would you describe your kind of music?

I am a hip-hop artist and rapper. I am trying to make positive music; I call it Hip-Hope. I try to preach the message of hope. And let young people know that if they keep trying, they will make it.

So how has the X-factor experience been?

X factor experience has been wonderful, very great.

What were your early musical influences?

Panam Percy Paul, Ron Kenoly, Bob fits and any gospel music but along the line I fell in love with rap music. But the fact still remains that earlier in life, it was gospel music. 

What would your fans be surprised to know about you?

My fans will be surprised to know that I am a good basketball player. People always laugh and remark that ‘short man like you?’ But I play basketball very well.

What is your typical day like?

There is no typical day in this business at all. Every day is different, every day I have to do something different. Some days, I will be at the back of UN car granting interview to one of the best reporters in Nigeria, another day I will be on board a flight to Kenya yet at other times I will be at home or in the studio. So there is no typical day’s routine.

What’s your favorite fashion piece?

It should be my watch, I really like my wrist watch.

What’s the most expensive fashion piece you have?

I don’t know, maybe a pair of shoe or something but I have some jeans that are pretty expensive. I bought some like a thousand dollars.

What message do you have for your fans out there?

Just be positive, work hard and trust in God.

-

Hemp photos: Tonto Dikeh risks 15-year jail term

JUNE 29, 2013  

Tonto Dikeh

The National Drug Law Enforcement Agency on Friday said controversial Nigerian actress, Tonto Dikeh, risks a minimum of 15 years in jail for encouraging the consumption of hemp.

Dikeh had on Friday posted photographs of a wrap of hemp and grains of the weed formed into the letters, ‘Happy birthday POKO.’

She also posted a photograph of herself and added the inscription, ‘Mi smoke ganja mi smoke weed while my hatez smoke ma gossip.’

Her picture is a close-up of her face that seemed to depict her in a high state.

When Saturday PUNCH contacted NDLEA for comments, its spokesman, Mr. Mitchell Ofoyeju, said the matter would be investigated.

He said the matter had been referred to the appropriate department of the agency.

Ofoyeju said, “Our attention has been drawn to the post quite frankly and I can tell you that action will be taken on it. The law is clear and NDLEA has been very clear on the issue. No one is permitted to sell, use, cultivate or encourage the use of Indian hemp in Nigeria. The weed is one of the banned narcotics in the country.

“NDLEA Act Section 14 (b) states that any person who conspires with, aids, abets, counsels, attempts to commit or is an accessory to any act or offence referred to in this act shall be guilty of an offence under this act and liable on conviction to be sentenced to imprisonment for a term not less than 15 years and not exceeding 25 years.

“Investigation has not started as of now but definitely, a step has to be taken on the matter. Ignorance of the law is not an excuse; so, it is obvious that the actress stands the risk of 15 years jail term. The appropriate department is meeting on the issue for necessary action.”

The NDLEA spokesman, however, declined to give any hint on particular steps the agency would take in its investigation, citing reasons bearing on ethics.

Dikeh’s post has expectedly drawn mixed reactions from readers, with many of them voicing concern for the way she is living her life.

KCEE’s Limpopo tops chart

JUNE 29, 2013 

Hip-hop artiste, Kcee

Hip-hop artiste, Kcee, scored his first ever victory at the top of the MTV Base Official Naija Top 10 with his catchy hit, ‘Limpopo’.   The chart-topping singer joins VJ Ehis in the Top 10 studio to talk about his art and dissect the week’s chart and music news.

Further down the chart, former number one, Davido, sees his hit ‘Gobe’ slip to number two after two weeks at the top.

 This week’s highest climbers include Wande Cole – up three places to number four with ‘The Kick’; Iyanya, whose ‘Sexy Mama’ moves up two places to number three; and D’Prince, whose ‘Goody Bag’ jumps two places from number nine to number seven.  2Face’s ‘Dance Floor’ slips one place to number nine, but sticking firm at number six is WizKid with ‘Azonto’, as Flavour’s ‘Chinny Baby’, retains its number 10 position.

2face, Ice Prince Compete For Best Int’l Act In Bet Awards -

As the Black Entertainment Television BET Awards holds in Los Angeles, California in the United States on Sunday, musicians from Africa are eager on who grabs the Best International Act award.

The award which will be hosted by ace comedian, Chris Tucker will have great performances from American pop diva, Mariah Carey, Nicky Minaj, Ciara and Soul singer, Eryka Badu.

Already leading in the African nominees’ category is award winning Nigerian star artiste, Tu Face Idibia , who will slug it out with another Nigerian and emerging star rapper, Ice Prince.

Competing with the duo are R2bees from Ghana, Radio and Weasel from Uganda, Donald from South Africa and Toya Delazy from South Africa.

Ice Prince is already in the States. He was spotted early in the week posing with an American rapper inNew York City.     

Beyonce is up for a tight contest with Rihana, Alicia Keys Tamar Braxton and Elle Varner in the Best Female R&B/ Pop category.  

For the male R&B / Pop, Chris Brown, Usher, Justin Timberlake, Bruno Mars and Migue jostles for the star award.

2Chains is the favourite to win the Best male hip hop category over Justin Timberlake, Kendrick Lamar. Others star awards are in the female hip hop, the Best Collabo and Best Video Director. 

Video of the Year Award have the largest nominees and they are 2Chainz Feat Drake – No Lie, A$ap Rocky Feat Drake, 2Chainz, Kendrick Lamar – Problems, Drake – Started From The Bottom, Lil Wayne Feat Drake – HYFR, Kendrick Lamar Feat Drake – Poetic Justice, Macklemore & Ryan Lewis Feat Wanz – Thrift Shop, Miguel – Adorn, Rihanna – Diamonds, Justin Timberlake Feat Jay Z – Suit & Tie, Kanye West Feat Big Sean, Pusha T, 2Chainz – Mercy.

There are other awards outside music which are best actor and actress, sportsman and others.

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Wizkid stirs a storm over new Porsche

JUNE 29, 2013 

Wizkid's Porsche Panamera

Barely two weeks after crashing his Porsche Panamera, Wizkid aka Star Boy, has replaced the car with an exact replica. The car costs about N15m. It is uncertain whether Wizkid insured the car but whichever way, fans are not happy about the development.

While expressed concern about his spending habits, others spoke bitterly that he could use the money to save the life of OJB Jezreel, a man who discovered his talent. However, a few congratulated him on his acquisition.

Some comments posted by fans on a popular blog:

“… and OJB is dying!”; “I hope this boy has a financial consultant/advisor. I hope he is doing better things with his money, if not”

“So Wizkid can afford to buy a new Porsche worth 15m and OJB whom he started his career with is there with limited time to live…what is wrong with Nigerian celebs??? 1M from 15 celebs isn’t too much. D’banj to me is the worst celeb in 9ja history so far that guy is a stingy peacock never heard he donated to anything in his life…pls i urge 9ja celebs 15 of you can save a live don’t wait to sing a tribute song.”

“So Wizzy has spare money 2 immediately replace a car but can’t donate as little as 100k to save OJB’s life. Hmmmmmm, anyways it’s ur money, can’t tell u hw 2 spend it but remember God is watching.”

“Instead of him to give the money to OJB! These artistes are all heartless and useless and only care about themselves. A porsche costs 10 million. OJB needs 15 Million. Whizkid, you’re such a hapless, useless, sorry ass kid.”

“OJB is dying u re busy buying car worth 15mil……na waaa and i heard he was instrumental to ur success …..dis boys no get conscience walahi”

“Operation I must drive a Porsche. But it’s so insensitive coming at a time like this, isn’t it? OJB has less than 8 weeks to live. *smh”

Celebrity baby mamas, daddies

JUNE 29, 2013  

Bisi Ibidapo-Obe
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In the last few months, there has been a negative trend on the Nigerian entertainment scene. Various artistes have been in the news over paternity or maternity issues. Celebrities are often times mentors to lots of people without knowing it. These people tend to emulate their lifestyles, whether they are acceptable or not. It is for this reason celebs are always advised to get their acts together because they never know who is watching. Saturday Beats highlights some of the acts that have been in the news over baby mama/daddy drama in the industry

Bisi Ibidapo-Obe

The paternity tussle between actress, Bisi Ibidapo-Obe, and former House of Representatives member, Dino Melaye, was a trending issue for months. While the actress stuck to her gun that the lawmaker was the father of her child, the married lawmaker with three kids denied the claims. The issue of DNA came up but when the pictures of her baby girl surfaced on the Internet, people made judgments in their mind. The baby girl is some months old now while her mother has since found love and obviously moved on with her life.

Liz Da Silva

Just few weeks ago, various news portals reported that the up and coming sexy actress, Liz Da Silva, who held her baby shower in May in Lagos, is not sure who is responsible for her pregnancy. At least three men were said to have been intimately involved with her, but the actress allegedly doesn’t know who the father of the child is. News about her dilemma is slowly simmering down and she is fast adjusting to being a single mother. During the week, the screen diva did her child dedication.

Laide Bakare

The light-skinned actress welcomed her baby boy into the world on May 3 in New York. Not too long after, her estranged first husband, Olumide Okunfulure, claimed to be the ‘baby-daddy’. The twist in this story is that Laide Bakare is married to another man, Tunde Oriowo, but her first husband, Okunfulure, is claiming he was still married to her when she got pregnant and quit their marriage without letting him know. However, the actress, few days ago, named her son ‘Oriowo’. Some days ago, she also hit back at her former husband, saying she was fully aware that her baby was the result of her liaison with her new man.

P-square

Just a few weeks after welcoming his first new born baby in Atlanta, Paul Okoye, the other half of the singing duo, P-Square, had another baby delivered for him in a London hospital by a former beauty pageant contestant, Elshama Benson. However, Paul has refused to claim paternal responsibility for the baby boy. Although the new mother had been in touch with the singer, he had not been forthcoming beyond telling her that he wants a DNA test to ascertain paternity. Elshama claims she never slept with any man except Paul, adding that she lost her virginity to him when she was 17 years old. Hard to believe, Elshama was a close friend to Anita, the other woman who gave birth to Paul’s first son.

Elton John and David Furnish celebrate Matthew Morrison's engagement at ball

Sir Elton John and David Furnish welcomed celebrity guests to their annual legendary White Tie and Tiara Ball on Thursday night in London.

The star-studded guestlist included A-listers Uma Thurman, Elizabeth Hurley, Samantha Barks and boyfriend David Gandy, Matthew Morrison and Chris Martin.

A highlight of the evening was when hosts Elton and David announced Glee star Matthew Morrison's engagement to his model girlfriend of two years, Renee Puente.

Elton and Coldplay singer Chris Martin then took to the stage to serenade the happy couple with a duet ofYour Song which fitted neatly with the theme of the night, "Love".

Matthew looked dapper as usual in a tailored suit and bow tie, while Renee kept her look classic opting for a dark, embroidered gown that lent all attention to her diamond engagement ring.

Uma followed suit and looked classically elegant in a black floor-length gown that flaunted her incredible figure. Elizabeth Hurley, a close friend of Elton, dazzled in a berry-coloured gown with a high slit that revealed her toned legs.

Samantha Barks and her model boyfriend David Gandy turned heads as they arrived looking just as glamorous. The Les Miserables actress stole the limelight with her white silk, plunging gown that showed off her ruby red necklace.

Other celebrities who attended included Eva Herzigova, Natalie Imbruglia, Freida Pinto, Jerry Hall.

Guests enjoyed a cocktail reception in the beautiful gardens before moving on to dinner in a marquee, and happily danced the night away around a heart-shaped bar.

The Old Windsor estate was decked out with red velvet beating hearts displays, adorned with unique Chopard jewels and watches.

The newly-engaged couple, Matthew and Renee, were all smiles and fit in perfectly with the loving theme.

"Renee is definitely the one," said Matthew, speaking previously in an exclusive interview with HELLO! Online.

"When I first met her, it was definitely one of those things. She walked into the room and took my breath away, she's gorgeous."

Matthew, 34, and Renee, 26, are currently in England to promote the Glee actor's new album Where It All Began. The charismatic actor is clearly set on Renee and is said to be completely loved-up with his fiancé.

"It's funny," he said. "You date your whole life and you definitely know what you want and what you don't want from going through the ringer."

The couple are often spotted around Los Angeles but try and keep a low-profile. "I'm kind of a homebody," he said. "We love cooking together. We're also really into horses.

"I think there is nothing more romantic than going on a horseback ride with the person you love and just enjoying the beautiful animals and scenery."