MUSICAL NEWS

MUSICAL
K-1 ESCAPES ASSASINATION
Close pals of Fuji King, Wasiu Ayinde were worried sick penultimate week, when words got round that the talented Fuji icon escaped robbery and assassination.So strong was the rumour that those who attempted reaching the Fuji king were shocked and confused as his two GSM lines were switched off. Information reaching us revealed that, he was actually on his way to Galaxy Television where he was expected to feature as Star guest on Gbenga Adewusi's popular programme “Bayowa Special” when he noticed that armed robbers were attacking vehicles ahead of his Navigator SUV. Sensing that he would be the next target, K-1, quickly abandoned his car and driver, made a quick dash into a nearby building where he was recognized. The driver, for the fear of his life also abandoned the car, which was left in the middle of the road. Being a branded car, (with 1 as his personalized number) passersby started concluding that the Fuji star might have been abducted or a target of assassination. We can exclusively reveal that K-1 De Ultimate, who was at Mike Adenuga's mum burial in Ijebu Igbo is hale and hearty still doing what he knows to do best. He told friends who came to visit him that God deserves all praises for giving him the idea that led to his escape. He also thanked his loyal fans for their concern and support all this while. Meanwhile, the Fuji star latest work, FLAVOUR is enjoying good airplay and sales have reached an all time high. A feat no other Fuji act can boast of.
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BOSE OLUBO AND MYSTERIOUS LOVER
Singer, actress, Bose Olubo whose romance with King Sunny Ade became subject of media mention weeks back is batting to uncover a mysterious caller who will not let her be. The caller who claims to be in love with her beeps her GSM phone as much as 100 times a day! Last week, he got bolder as he spoke with her claiming to have a job for her; he, the unknown caller gave her an appointment at the popular artists' hangout, Femina Café situated inside the premises of Lagos Television, Ikeja. After waiting for over one hour without him in sight, Bose called her supposed “lover boy” only to be informed that the number is a commercial call centre! Not one to waste her time, Bose quickly informed us about her plan to shot musical videos for four (4) upcoming artistes free! Her gesture she said is her way of encouraging talents and exposing her creative talent to the world. As per the bugging fan disturbing her phone, Bose has reported the case to V-mobile and left the rest to God.
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LITTLE FISH STUDIO RE-OPENS
September 9, is the special date set aside by young music promoter, producer and investor, Muri Ejalonibu for the grand re-opening of his renovated and updated multipurpose studio tucked in Anifowoshe, Ikeja. The studio, which now boasts of top of the range audio-visual production equipment and effects now wears new paints and looks ready for action. Muri, the man behind the wave-making entertainment house in an exclusive chat told us that he is now a Wiseman, all his things, even including his life are now “doubly” insured. “I am now very focused and ready to expand” the handsome dude revealed.
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ARA 'RETURNS' TO MUSON CENTRE
The Enigma of the African race, Ara, the female songster will be thrilling her teaming fans to her refined Afro-fusion king of music come September 22, 2005 at the Shell Hall, Muson Centre, Onikan, Lagos.
The multitalented singer and drummer, Ara who has not only taking her music beyond the shore of the country but register it into the hearts of Africa music lovers all over the world.
The event, which will feature other prominent artistes in the entertainment industry promises to be grand and enthralling.
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EARTHQUAKE CONSIDERS BREAK UP
For a group, which consider itself as the last group standing, after the exit of Remedies, Plantation Boys, X-Appeal, may join the bandwagon that is if they are not fairly treated. Their grudge is not with their label owner, Little Fish, no! They have problems with event organizers who don't mind the fact that Adex and Ice K are two individuals who are supposed to be paid doubly. The duo, are now considering Solo Careers in Unity hoping to rake in more money as individuals. I can only pray for them that the deal should work as planned
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THE STORY OF AJANTALA 1
A new Afro-centric sensational, who started his musical journey about 13 years now is set to release his age long album titled 'Which Way Forward' by the end of this month.
The 8-tracker maiden effort has tracks like: Suffer, Suffer, You know No Wetin I See, O Ti Suwa amongst others.
The Ogun State-Abeokuta born singer, Ajantala 1, as he prefers to be called is coming out with a chart-buster. The awestruck album, as foreseen by Ajantala 1 himself will make a big impact in the life of the listeners.
nollywoodgists asked him what motivates him into music and the tall and fair skinned 30-something years old said “I am motivated by the desire to have a better Nigeria. God inspired me to compose these songs and for the past 13 years, I have been doing it religiously,” he confessed
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BAYOWA IN AND OUT OF LONDON
Call him grassroots promoter; call him controversial, Gbenga Adewusi means so many things to so many people. He was spotted in London during the Bank Holiday don't ask me if Itunnu's dad was part of the carnival, I can only tell you that Bayowa was seen in company of Lords Promotions' boss, Olusegun Akinloye Okeowo in some corners in London.
Did I hear you say another Val jam? Don't worry at least Adewusi is back in town; call his GSM he will surely tackle your curiosity.
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KEKE & D-ONE AT IT AGAIN!
These two pals will never fail to amaze me, just few days after joining their wives in the States to do a little bit of “nannies”, they were spotted during the London Carnival doing what they both know best “Coverage”. The Carnival no doubt will be a background to uplift their highly publicised independence day Concert which they boast will be the biggest so far put together in the city of London, I join million of their fans in wishing them a visa haggle free time at the British Embassy.
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KENNY RHODA DOWN BUT NOT OUT
Television fans of entertainment anchorperson of Island based super screen television were happy when the saw a new “refreshing” Kenny Rhoda on air last week. Kenny who has frequent London in the past months was down with fever hence her inability to be up and doing. I am sure after taking this and that, the restless and talkative Kenny who is currently in hot romance with a light-skinned Island big boy is back on her feet.
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PASUMA SNEAKS IN AND OUT
Fuji rave, Wasiu Alabi pasuma quietly sneaked in and out of Nigeria penultimate week to be part of some private engagements. While in town, he was at the burial party of Afeezco films boss' father, not only that, the Prince of Fuji music also rocked at the popular hotel in Ajah, Alesh Hotel to the delight of his fans. He has since returned to Dublin via London where he has lines of engagement to attend to. Remember us O, when you get to your paradise!

AFRICAN CHINA TOURS EUROPE
the multiple award winner and the king of Ghetto raga, African China may have been wining and dinning with the international artistes in Europe by the time you finish reading this.
The new sensation in the music industry, Chinagorom Onouha, will be performing in Germany, Holland, Italy and other prominent places in Europe.
Let's all wish him safe journey and hope he comes back with Obodo lady.
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AFTERMATH OF MAINTAIN'S FALLOUT
Tolu Goes Back to Senator-Dad
Olu now an Attaché
Big Bamo Opens Pub
Big Bamo, the architect turned music promoter who was the backbone behind the singing duo, Tolu and Olu popularly referred to as Maintain has repositioned with the recent opening of a pub in a highbrow area in Lagos.
For those who have not heard, Maintain has become extinct and the members have all moved on with their private lives. The latest gist in town about the award winning Maintain group's separation is that, Tolu has now hearkened to the voice of his Senator dad who has repeatedly informed him to find something else to do. Reason is that the old man does not see anything the sickle cell aneamic has benefited so far from his incursion into music some six years back. Though, Tolu, obviously carried away by the fleeting fame that came with his membership of Maintain was not too disposed to his father's earlier warning to leave music and seek greener pastures, has now seen reasons with his dad. For Olu, the egotistic half of the group who carved a larger than life image for himself at the height of the group's popularity despite his not-too-rosy background, we learnt, has attached himself to some up and coming music acts for 'small-small show' just to get by. Bamo's makeshift tavern, on the other hand, is beginning to enjoy reasonable patronage, all thanks to his wife who spiced up the hostelry with the Ofada rice she sells to customers.
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O.J. Dynamite is a name that should easily strike a chord in your min. The reason is because, the shy and down-to-earth showbiz guru has been operating in the entertainment environment for ages. If you have been a dedicated follower of the Grand Slam, one of the brains behind that concept is what we are talking about here.
This single and still searching lover of good things of life whose first single about three years ago was one of the top ten is coming out with something different.
I bet, it's gonna to be a bang.
He recently led MICHAEL ALONGE into his world on this and that.
Excerpts…

ABOUT HIM
He's known in the entertainment industry as O.J. Dynamic but his real name is Olawole James Akala. He's an upwardly mobile dude who has done quite well for himself.
EDUCATIONAL BACKGROUND
O.J. Dynamic started his education like every other student. He went to primary school and later moved to Eko Boys High School, Lagos. Afterwards, he jetted out of the country to study Business Administration. He later read Sound Engineering in west London. That was in 1990.
INCURSION INTO MUSIC
Shortly after he completed his Sound Engineering degree programme, he went into business. This he did for a while before returning to the country. He worked briefly in a computer centre in Lagos as an accounts and administrative manager. However, O.J. wouldn't want to talk much about this company for reasons best known to him,
he entered into music after his resignation from the computer centre. He made some impressive achievement as a Disc Jockey, DJ in virtually all the notable events in Lagos then.
O.J. AS AN ACTOR
The entertainment thing seems to revolve round his destiny as young O.J. then was part of the popular T.V. soap known as Village Headmaster, back in the days. He actually played some roles, which, of course earned him some respect amongst his peers.
LIKE FATHER LIKE SON
Would you ever believe that, this tall and soft-spoken O.J.'s dad was the renowned Chief Afilaka in the soap, the Village Headmaster? Little wonder, Olawole James was able to make an outstanding performance. Inborn thing you would say.
VIEW ABOUT ENTERTAINMENT INDUSTRY IN NIGERIA
“We have a bunch of talented people here than any other part of Africa but the major problem we have is the economy depreciation which, of course has affected every area of professionalism” the above words were spoken from the man about town himself, O.J. Dynamite.
WHAT THEN CAN WE DO TO BE ON TOP?
“Nothing! Absolutely nothing except the economy is back to the basis” he said. Then again he stressed further that, the royalties meant for every musician should be paid in due course. “Even the Holy book, The Bible also says that a labourer is worthy of his wages, why then will I work and I won't eat from the sweat of my labour? All these are checked and balanced in those days as you would be given a bus to move your band around and all that but these days the reverse is the case. Promoter or marketer won't even mind a musician buying a car for him,” O.J. Dynamite said bitterly.
COMPARISON BETWEEN HARUNA ISHOLA, 2FACE AND OTHERS
He said it's very hard to find the very best and the very best, according to his word, is not yet born. “There is no how you can compare the money Haruna Ishola of blessed memory had to what 2Face or all these hip-hop artistes have these days. How many of them have a recording studio? He asked rhetorically, but all they are just enjoying is fame, glamour couple with the sophisticated communication gadgets we have around us now.” He reiterated. But the likes of 2Face etc are all living big these days, now, FAME interjected. How many of them could afford such a large studio Haruna Ishola had then. He was actually the owner of Phonodisc Records, which released Chris Okotie then before he became a pastor and now presidential aspirant. Nigeria's artistes are supposed to be multi-millionaire but all of us are just living a hard life wearing a borrowed robe.
PIRACY IS GOVERNMENT INVENTED SYNDROME
O.J. Dynamite put the blame of piracy in Nigeria on the Government. He said if the economy is in balancing order, the issue of piracy would have been non-consequential. “If an artiste releases his work excessively, the piracy virus would not have come in because, there is no how fake will not be different from the original. But, matter gets worse when an artiste has not even released an album outside and you have been seeing his work conspicuously displayed by the pirates” he exploded.
BUT THERE IS PIRACY EVERYWHERE?
Yes, you are right, but it's so enormous here than there. You know Nigeria is over 120 million, so if an artiste can sell 20 million, I think it's a good deal but a lot of things are wrong here, we don't have buying and reading culture, we prefer to rent than to acquire.
WHAT HE IS BUSY WITH AT THE MOMENT
O.J. is at present busy with his second album, which is still on the pipeline, he said he wants to touch life, reach out to people and also enjoy the pecks that come with it.

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STORM RECORDS RECORDS DARE, JAZZMAN OLOFIN, OTHERS
Triple treat of musical explosion as the CDs of these three talented musicians, namely Dare Art-Alade of Project Fame, Raise the roof jazzman Olofin and Lanre Dabiri [elDee of Trybe records fame] stormed the market a few weeks ago from the stable of Storm Records Ltd. These three works are billed to hit the market same day.
The recording studio of note has been gathering steam for the three albums' launch with the release of a promotional CD for radio and DJs titled The Takeover. This unique work features first single of the Dare's As I Am [Escalade] elDee African Chquito [remix] and Jazzman Olofin's Shake Sumthing, as well as Eko, a popular song of the music acts.
According to their General Manager, Tola Odunsi on the triple release, he said “ we are launching with the three hottest artistes of this generation simultaneously because we want to beat others to it.
Also, Dare Art-Alade, the heir apparent to the late musician Art-Alade says this about his new work “My music basically is me. The entire album expresses places I have been to and experiences I've gathered over the last ten years. I want to create good quality music that is filled with ideas and emotions”. He stated.
Jazzman Olofin's work, Restless, his maiden effort with the Storm Records features a mix of club bangers, African grooves and mellow moves and guest performances from Blackky, Ruggedman, and the ace comedian Julius Agwu.
“To have Julius Agwu opening my song, that's a first for him as well as me. This album really brings out who I am and I feel fulfilled on this project.” Words from Jazzman.
For elDee, the hit maker behind Trybe Records and a key collaborator on tracks with his fellow Storm artistes, it's been a Long Time Coming since the public first got a taste of his unique brand of hip-hop with a Naija twist.
elDee says, “the music I have created is not exactly mainstream hip-hop, it's a redefinition of hip-hop from an African perspective. With this CD, I hope to be able to open people up to the sound of Afro hip-hop scene worldwide,” he stressed.
Other artistes whose works are due for release before the end of the year include Dede Mabiaku, hip-hop queen Sasha, folk soul princess Nkiru, rising star GT etc.
Meanwhile, Storm Records, the music and events team behind Storm 45, the live monthly music showcase at Club 11:45 and the award-winning duo, Junior & Pretty is coming back with a bang this August. Watch out!
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VICTOR OLADOKUN HOSTS MUSICAL CONCERT @ EKO SUITES
One of the pillars behind wave-making American based Christian Broadcasting Network, CBN and one of the presenters of Turning Point, Victor Oladokun, has made a profound influence on the gospel scene in the country through a well-packaged gospel musical concert/CD launch of the work entitled Cry of Africa.
The event, which held at the prestigious Expo Centre, Eko Hotel and Suites on Sunday July 24, 2005, at 3:00 pm., which was tagged an evening of 'soul lifting and soul inspiring music for the family and all lovers of good music' was worth the while for the guests.
According to the organizers of the event, top rated gospel singers from both United States of America and Nigeria gave superlative performance to the crème-de-la-crème of the society who graced the gospel event.
Artistes who were on the list are Lionel Paterson, Jamine Price, De Envoys, Cobhams and Oyeka Onwenu. Others included Mike Aremu, Dare Art Alade, Asa, Modele, Euphoria Worship Team and Peacemakers.
Stand up comedian Teju Baby Face was on hand to crack the ribs of guests with jokes, while Cool FM's Dan Foster also added pep to the event.
One of the organizers of the event who spoke to us informed that, the concert was just one of the modest ways to rekindle the fire of the gospel in the people, because music, according to him, has the power to drive the message of salvation faster than anything else.
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CHARLEY BOY CELEBRATES PMAN'S 21ST ANNIVERSARY
His royal punkness and the Gbagada weird lord, Charles Oputa, popularly addressed as Charly Boy, the president of Performing Musician Association of Nigeria is set to celebrate 21st anniversary of the association next month.
The man of the people who is leaving no stone unturned, Charley Boy, will role out the party galore with newness football match on August 14 between the Actors Guild of Nigeria AGN and PMAN. The stakeholders forum and media dinner will, before the football friendly, hold at the Eko Hotel and Suites.
The two-week-long event will also feature prominent players in the industry on Thursday, September 1, 2005, as they will be honoured for their immense contributions to the growth of the industry. After this, the event will be rounded off with a gala nite and dinner affair at the Eko Hotel and Suites on August 4, 2005.
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WHEN FRIENDS AND FANS GATHERED FOR ROLLING DOLLAR @ 78
Last Month, it was celebration galore as friends and die-hard-fans of the Agidigbo music exponent, Fatai Rolling Dollars teemed to felicitate with the music man at 78.
The veteran musician who performed wonderfully with his band to the admiration of the guests proved that he's still hale and hearty. Other music acts who joined in the celebration include, Koffi Idowu, Twin-X etc, while Itu Baba Ita, the ace comedian was on hand to reel out rib cracking jokes.
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CHECK THIS OUT!
What could this be? Is he meditating, conducting, or receiving inspiration from Jah?. Whichever way, it's all part of action plan and artistic traits to give the best to his fans. This is the Ochonma, the Sofly Sofly crooner whose maiden effort dazzled all and sundry few years back in his best element. This is how far showbiz has gone.
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WHEN FUNKE WAS CEE CEE LUTHER
Saying it's a pathetic story is like stating the obvious. Of course, everybody knows the story of Funke. This picture of the Celine Dion sing-alike, then as Cee Cee Luther shows clearly what future would have held for her if the devil has not knocked on her door. Funke, who reverted to a native name after the failed attempt to adopt an English name that has bearing with Celine Dion, the international songstress because of media attack is now a shadow of her old self.
Today, the once-upon-a-time promising artiste who used to shine like the flash of an eagle is now a dancer in a cage. Are we all going to allow this girl rot away like a withered flower? I think that question needs an answer.
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BETWEEN FRAN KUBOYE AND DAUGHTER'S CAR
The multi-talented entertainer, Fran Kuboye seems to be enjoying the prize of fatherhood these days.Ever since her leggy queen's daughter Tamilore jetted out of the country, the bassist, Fran, has been sighted in his daughter's car, which the Queen Afrik pageant gave to her. Anyway, the man, despite the hearsays, does not give a hoot about it. Abi now.