REDMAN'S VIBEWORLD

RV IS BEING TRANSFORMED TO A WEBSITE.

2010-10-08T15:42:00.000-07:00

Dear Readers and Followers, I am sorry for not blogging for sometime now. I have been busy of late and I have always wanted to run a full fledged website. I know you might feel disappointed with my decision to stop this blog. I believe in doing things properly and I have decided to take my web writing a few notches higher. This blog will not be updated again. It has been left in the cyberspace graveyard. A professional and well managed website will arise from the ashes of REDMAN'S VIBEWORLD. Thanks for following this blog all the while. We will keep you informed when the new website is ready. Thanks.

Tolu Ihidero

Belinda (1984) by Grady Harrell { RV VIDEO FEATURE }.

2010-09-17T04:26:00.000-07:00

This song by Grady Harrell takes me back to my childhood.'Belinda' is a song that makes you want to hit the dance floor. This song inspired many Nigerian contemporary musicians. Eddy Ashiedu Brown of The Remedies sampled parts of this great song on one of the group's tracks.

I don't know why Grady was not successful as his contemporaries like Janet Jackson, New Edition and Jody Watley. Grady is from Los Angeles, California, and he has been a professional singer since he was 9 years old. His first album 'Mwana' was produced by Fred Wesley in 1984. 'Belinda' is one of the great songs on the album. Many Africans loved 'Belinda' because of the African feel of the song coupled with the African dancers in the video of the song. RV has a detailed story on Grady Harrell coming up. Enjoy this great video. Cheers.

BOB MARLEY'S FAMILY SUCCUMBS TO US COPYRIGHT LAW IN BITTER COURT CASE.

2010-09-16T04:08:00.000-07:00

The family of Reggae Music Icon, Robert Nesta Marley, have lost out in a bid to obtain the copyrights to some of his revered recordings. Rita Marley and her children had sued Universal Music Group ( UMG ) seeking millions of dollars for the company's alleged attempts to 'exploit' his recordings. They also accused UMG of not paying royalties to the Family's Fifty-Six Hope Road Music Company. However, in a comprehensive ruling in New York last Friday, Judge Denise Cote ruled that Bob Marley's recordings were 'works made for hire' as stated under US Copyright law. According to Cote- 'Each of the agreements provided that the sound recordings were the absolute property of Island Records. Whether Marley would have recorded his music even if he had not entered the recording agreements with Island is beside the point.' Island Records is a subsidiary of the Universal Music Group ( UMG ).

The albums at the centre of the dispute include 'Catch a Fire'(1973), 'Burnin' (1973), 'Natty Dread' (1974), 'Rastaman Vibration' (1976) and 'Exodus' (1977). The albums listed were recorded by Bob Marley and his band, The Wailers, and contain some of the Reggae Legend's greatest songs like 'I shot the sherrif', 'One love' and 'No Woman, No Cry'. Judge Cotes ruling has put an end to the bitter legal fight between UMG and the Marley Family. In another development, Rita Marley who lives in Ghana will be attending a memorial concert in honour of her husband. The concert which has been tagged 'A Bob Marley Celebration' will take place in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, USA on the 23rd of this month. RV has gathered that some of Bob Marley's children including Damian, Julian, Stephen and Cedella Marley will be performing at the event ahich will be held at the Benedum Centre for the Performing Arts in Pittsburgh. The money that is raised from the concert will be donated to the family's One Love Foundation. Bob Marley died of Cancer in 1981 at age 36. He has sold between 100-250 million albums all over the world.

Sources: cdinsight.com, modernghana.com, RV.
Where To Find Bob Marley Online: www.bobmarley.com

A MESSAGE FROM TOLU IHIDERO.

2010-09-15T03:43:00.000-07:00

I want to thank you all for taking the time to read and follow this blog. I am really amazed at the growth of REDMAN'S VIBEWORLD. Your consistent patronage has given me the motivation to continue with this project. I have had some positive feedback from readers in different parts of the world. Due to the traffic that this blog is receiving, we have decided to work harder to make your visit to REDMAN'S VIBEWORLD an unforgettable experience. We will be adding some new features to the blog like CD Reviews, Promoting upcoming musicians, writing articles about legendary Nigerian, African and world artists and also taking in and featuring guest bloggers. So here we go.

Are you a music lover? Can you write? You don't have to be a professional writer to be featured on this blog. We are looking for guest bloggers that want to make a name for themselves. If you have something to say about Nigerian artists or others matters relating to music, we will publish your article. Just write it and attach a photograph with it [ We can source for photographs too ] and mail it to us. The article should be in Microsoft Word and should not be too long. Your name will be credited as the author of the story or article. If the story is good, you will get paid for it. If you're an artist or musician, you can send a short biography to us along with links to your music online [ YOUTUBE videos, Myspace Page, Your personal website etc ]. We will promote you on the blog for FREE. We are all about Music and all that is associated with it.

Contact Us: tolukandi@yahoo.com, tolu.ihidero@gmail.com

Keep it locked on REDMAN'S VIBEWORLD. Our best is yet to come. Thanks.

PATTI LABELLE PLAYS FELA'S MOTHER ON BROADWAY MUSICAL.

2010-09-13T03:03:00.000-07:00

Funmilayo Anikulapo Kuti, the mother of Africa's legendary Afrobeat musician, Fela Anikulapo Kuti, will be resurrected once more on stage by Legendary American R&B singer, Patti Labelle. Labelle made up her mind about playing Funmilayo Kuti on FELA, a Broadway musical produced by rappers Will Smith and Jay-Z after attending the show. According to Labelle- 'I am both thrilled and honoured to be joining the cast of FELA on Broadway. Fela's mother, Funmilayo, was a strong, truly inspiring woman and I am so privileged to be able to pay tribute to her on the Broadway stage.'

Labelle, who is renowned for her passionate stage performances, wide vocal range and distinctive high octave belting will make her debut in the play tomorrow [ September 14, 2010 ] and she will stay with the production until it ends on January 2, 2011. Playing Funmilayo Kuti will not be difficult for Patti Labelle because she is an actress with a lot of experience. She featured in the NBC sitcom 'A Different World' as Adele Wayne {Mother of Dwayne} and also acted in her own sitcom 'Out All Night' as a former R&B star known as Chelsea Paige. So she is in familiar territory. FELA is directed and Choreographed by Bill T. Jones. The show stars Sahr Nguajah and Kevin Mambo who both play Fela Kuti alternatively, and also features Antibalas and other members of the New York City Afrobeat community under the directorial skills of Aaron Johnson.

FELA which opened on Broadway in November 2009 tells the story of Fela Kuti as the target of 1000 soldiers who are hell bent on stopping his performances at his famous night club, Kalakuta Republic. Patti Labelle is also an accomplished singer-songwriter who was inducted into the Grammy Hall of Fame in 2003 due to her song 'Lady Marmalade'. She has reportedly sold 50 Million copies of her albums worldwide and has appeared on the Oprah Winfrey Show. If you're in the USA, you need to see this Tony Award-winning show about Fela Kuti. Fela is a freedom fighter who continues to inspire many Nigerians to demand for better governance in the oil rich nation.

Sources: theatremania.com, allhiphopnews.com, RV.
Where To Find Patti Labelle Online: www.pattilabelle.com

ASA IS BACK WITH ' BEAUTIFUL IMPERFECTION ' .

2010-09-12T05:10:00.000-07:00

There is something unique about Bukola Elemide A.K.A Asa. I became her fan in January 2008 after listening to her CD repeatedly for three days. I did some research about her on the internet and I was amazed by the number of websites that carried stories about this wonderful lady. Her first album, 'Asa' was a total package of living songs and the deft touches of Producer Cobhams Emmanuel Asuquo can be felt on the album. 'Jailer' and 'Fire On The Mountain' were the two outstanding songs on the album. They share a common theme of social injustice and oppression, and I'm not surprised that Bukola has remained a social crusader with her second album, 'Beautiful Imperfection'.

Asa has reinvented herself and she looks at life in a new way. She is also looking very womanly presently ( You need to see her recent pictures ) and it is clear she is projecting her sensual part to the world. Her new personal and physical consciousness can be felt through her new songs. 'Be My Man' is the first single from her new album and the song should be on the airwaves any minute from now. Apart from telling us that she is ready for love, I feel the Paris born singer is also using 'Be My Man' to dispel rumours that she is having a lesbian affair with her Manager, Janet Nwose. Other tracks on the album include 'Questions' { Asa is back to her usual social criticism on this joint }, 'Bimpe' { A cool song about a character the singer has lived with in her head }, 'Ok', 'Broda Ole' et al. The full album will hit the music stores next month.

I don't want to bore you with information about Asa's background but it should be noted that she was born in France [ Her father was working at the Nigerian High Commission in Paris when she was born ] and returned to Nigeria at age 2. As a lonely child, Asa embraced music and was influenced by the music of greats like Aretha Franklin, Bob Marley, King Sunny Ade and Ebenezer Obey. After she started to establish herself on the world music map, She jammed with the likes of Manu Dibango, Doctor L and Tony Allen. Bukola won the highly regarded Constantine Award in France in 2008 [ though she hardly speaks French as a language ] and has performed with John Legend, Snoop Dogg and Akon. She is still signed to Naive Music in France. Stay tuned to RV for more information when 'Beautiful Imperfection' finally comes out.

Sources: Hi Magazine, RV.
Where To Find Asa Online: www.myspace.com/asaofficial
Contact Us: tolukandi@yahoo.com

RIHANNA'S RED RAGE FOR SINGLE RELEASE!!!

2010-09-09T11:27:00.000-07:00

If you're still trying to figure out why Robyn Rihanna Renty danced like a slut in the video of her hit song 'Rude Boy', then you've just been hit by another daring act of sultriness by the Umbrella crooner. Rihanna's picture on the sleeve of the CD of her forthcoming single 'Only Girl ( in the world )' is really hot with a tinge of red. In the picture, the R&B diva is kneeling down almost nude with a piece of red cloth covering her reproductive organs. She spots a necklace and a bracelet on her arm. Her hair has been dyed red and she looks defiant in the picture. The tattoo on her bum can also be seen in the photograph. This PR strategy to boost sales of the single which will be released iTunes on September 21 is really smart. The sexy artwork will influence music lovers to buy the song.

On her official fansite, Rihanna Daily, the singer took time to talk about her new album 'Loud' that will hit the stores in November. ' I'm done recording the whole album. I made sure not to let you down with my music. You guys are always defending me, so now you've got some great songs to justify it.' She told her fans in a web chat. RV has also gathered that 'Only Girl ( in the world )' premiered on Ryan Seacrest's Radio Show in the US. I heard the song some hours ago and I feel it is going to be a club hit. It is really danceable and you're bound to get up and dance to the song. The chorus of the song goes thus-

' Want you to make me feel,
like I'm the only girl in the world
like I'm the only one that you'll ever love
like I'm the only one who knows your heart.'

The song was produced by the Norwegian hit making duo, Stargate, who were responsible for Rihanna's other singles like ' Hate that I love you', 'Please Don't Stop The Music' and 'Rude Boy'. Rihaanna who was born in St Michael, Barbados, has sold 5,563,000 album units in the United States of America as at July 23, 2010. Her wax figure was unveiled in Madame Tussauds at Washington DC late last month. She won awards for World's Best Selling Pop Female Artist and Female Entertainer of the Year at the World Music Awards in 2007.

Sources: billboard.com, metro.co.uk, sussexexpress.co.uk, RV.
Where To Find Rihanna Online: www.rihannanow.com

WILL TINIE TEMPAH BE THE STAR OF THE NIGHT @ THE 2010 MOBO AWARDS?

2010-09-09T04:54:00.000-07:00

Patrick Chukwuem Okogwu has never had it so good. Though his debut album 'Disc-Overy' will be released next month, he is already a force to be reckoned with on the UK Hip-Hop and Grime scene. All eyes will be on the South London rapper if he scoops home all the awards he has been nominated for towards the 15th MOBO Awards to be held at the Liverpool Echo Arena, Liverpool, United Kingdom on October 20, 2010. Okogwu, whose stage name is Tinie Tempah, has been nominated for 'Best Newcomer', 'Best UK Act', 'Best Song' and 'Best Video'. Tinie's breakout single 'Pass Out' ( The video of the song is on YOUTUBE ) debuted at #1 on the UK singles chart in March 2010. The song played a big part in securing Tinie Tempah his 4 nominations at the MOBO Awards. 'Pass Out' also reached Number 6 on the Irish Music Charts.

Tempah is also due to appear at the BT Digital Music Awards. He has been nominated in five award categories and he is tipped to win the awards on the night. He started getting some recognition when the video of his promotional single 'Wifey', produced by Flukes { Crazy Cousins } became an underground hit and subsequently secured the Channel U urban chart top spot for ten consecutive weeks in 2006. Tempah has performed with a lot of big time artists including Snoop Dogg at the 2010 Glastonbury Music Festival. He also supported Rihanna for four dates on her 10-date UK tour with Tinchy Stryder and Pixie Lott. The 21 year old rapper's album will be released by the Parlophone Music Label on October 4, 2010. The album will be in CD format and is available for digital download. RV wishes this cat with a Nigerian heritage the best in his music career. He has a bright future ahead of him.

Source: Yahoo Music, Wikipedia, RV.
Where To Find Tinie Tempah Online: www.tinietempah.com

PAUL I.K DAIRO'S EUROPEAN AMBITIONS.

2010-09-06T16:27:00.000-07:00

I wrote a piece about Paul I.K Dairo for AFRICA, St Patrick's Missions Magazine, back in 2007. I remember giving a hint in the write up that Paul Play was aiming for recognition after winning over both youths and pensioners alike in Nigeria. I've been proved right with the style and quality of Dairo's recent songs and videos. His videos are now of international standard and his recent songs makes you feel you're listening to Usher or Chris Brown. I don't want you to come to the hasty conclusion that Paul Dairo has sold out. He remains himself. It is just that Isaiah Kehinde Dairo's son rightly thinks he has something to offer to Europe and the wider world.

Paul Play 2nd R&B album will be released in the UK. He has already secured a publishing deal in Britain and he's looking forward to an international release because he believes his new album will not sell in Nigeria. Dairo arrived at this conclusion because his R&B songs have been widely accepted in Europe and North America. Many Record Label executives in Britain were awed with his talent and production skills after listening to his tracks. Paul Play has worked with Star View Entertainment in Britain and has written songs for Jimmy Cozier on the singer's album. Sincerely, Paul I.K Dairo is one artist that can compete with any American and British R&B musician. He should have made his move to Europe years ago.

According to Paul- 'My biggest regret is that I didn't give R&B a shot early enough. Most of the record executives I met abroad were asking me where I had been all the while.' Paul Dairo, who miraculously recovered from a strange Kidney problem after undergoing surgery in South Africa last year, proved cynics wrong when his 2005 album 'Hitsville' became a huge success. Before then, there was this belief that a 100% R&B album would not do well in Nigeria. With hot and blazing tracks like 'Angel of My life', 'Playground Anthem', 'Crazy', 'You and Me' and 'Forever', 'Hittsville' became an album everyone wanted to lay their hands on. No one was really surprised when Paul Play was the hero of the night at the 2007 Hip Hop World Awards. 'Hitsville' won Best R&B Album, Artist of The Year, Album of The Year and Record of The Year for 'Forever'.

Paul I.K Dairo started out as a Producer/Songwriter and back-up vocalist before he started singing. He produced and featured in Ruggedman's song 'What If'. Other production credits include Slam ( Ebibu Chineke ), Tony Tetuila, Sunny Neji, Mike Okri and Dr Fresh ( Album ). The graduate of Mechanical Engineering from the Yaba College of Technology is the most creative Nigerian artist in recent times. Paul Play oozes creativity in everything he does. His talent should not be confined to Nigeria. The world needs to drink from his cup of musical innovation. He has been in the industry for 10 ten years now and we all know what he can do. Do you know that a Myspace Page has been dedicated to Paul Dairo in Poland? This shows that music lovers in Europe are feeling him. We at RV believe it is time for Tricia's husband to take on the world. What do you think?

Sources: thenationonline.com, RV.
Where To Find Paul I.K Dairo online: www.myspace.com/paulfanclubpolska,
www.myspace.com/paulplay

Contact Us: tolukandi@yahoo.com

Paul Play : Forever { RV VIDEO FEATURE }

2010-09-06T09:37:00.000-07:00

Paul Babatunde Dairo is the son of the late Nigerian music legend, I.K Dairo, who remains the only African musician to be honoured by Queen Elizabeth II of Britain in the 60's. Just like his father, Paul has become an accomplished musician. He has been able to present an hybrid of Highlife, Juju, Hip-Hop, R&B, soul and reggae music genres to his fans in Nigeria and Internationally. I have been following Paul IK Dairo for some time now. He started out with groups like Le Griffe ( His Bother, Banji, and cousin, Henry Dairo, both of whom have passed away were members of this R&B group ), De Klan, Oxygen ( Paul still has ties to this group. Tony Tonero [ Died early this year ] and Slam were in the video of his song 'Mosorire' ) and Pure Heart Impression.

Paul Play Dairo has released a number of albums including 'Hitsville', 'Dairo Music Foundation Project' and 'Project II, 2 Ways 2 Play'. He has sold about 8 million copies of his CD's to date. Paul is also an introvert and we at RV are happy that he has not been involved in any scandal since his career started. What else can we expect from a gifted young man who was raised by father with strong christian values? Enjoy the video above. We also have a feature story on Paul Play for you. Happy viewing and reading.

EGO OGBARO FINALLY STEPS OUT OF LAGBAJA'S SHADOW WITH BRAND NEW SONGS.

2010-09-06T04:15:00.000-07:00

Ego Ogbaro's decision to pursue a solo career was met with some cynicism by fans of the masked one, Lagbaja. Over the years, Ego and her mentor had recorded songs that virtually became anthems of the Nigerian music audience. It got to a point that people started to read meaning into the close relationship between Bisade Ologunde [ Lagbaja ] and Ego Ogbaro [ Nee Iheanacho ]. If you've taken the time to look at the videos of Lagbaja's songs, you will discover that there is a real synergy between Bisade and Ego. Ego breathed life into Lagbaja's music with her strong vocals while Omo Baba Muko Muko ensured the instrumentation and other aspects of his music were taken care of. This synergy can be seen in these songs- 'Never Far Away', 'Anything For Me', 'Feyin E', and 'Konko Below'. I've realized that Ego's voice charmed and captivated us as Lagbaja's lead singer for the last decade and she's getting better daily.

Ego Ogbaro is from Imo State and she has an Ogun State- born mother and four siblings. She schooled in Aba and Lagos but could not finish her public administration course at the Lagos State University [ LASU ] because she had a flair for French. Ego proceeded to the Alliance Francaise and attended classes there to get her certificate in French Language. It is clear that music is her natural calling and she has done well in this regard. She started out by being a back up singer for her friends in the music industry. Along the way, she met Lagbaja and joined his band. At first, she did back up vocals as usual for the masked one alongside other female singers, but as time went on she became Lagbaja's prominent singer. Ego subsequently blew up and became more and more prominent as she amassed tons of fans across the continent.

After getting married on the 10th of October 2009 to her long time term love, Niyi Ogbaro, at the Archbishop Vining Memorial Church in Lagos, Ego resumed work immediately in the studios as she continued recording towards the release of her debut album. The album which will be released before the year runs out was produced by Cobhams Asuquo [ Cobhams is the blind but highly creative guy behind Asa's self titled album 'Asa' ] and co-produced by Nathaniel Bassey. Let me let you in to a fact. Ego Ogabaro's new material is really good and she will be giving the likes of TY Bello, Lara George and Yinka Davies a run for their money [ That is if she has not already done so as Lagbaja's sidekick ]. Her first single off her album is 'Fall in Love'. The video of the song was shot in New York and it was directed by Kemi Adetiba of K'Alpha Innovations. Eldee Tha Don made a cameo appearance in the video. It is available for viewing on Google's YOUTUBE. Other songs on the new album include 'I believe', 'Bianulu', and 'Palava'. The album is a fusion of soul, jazz, afrobeat and R&B. I have this belief that Ego Ogabaro can become another pop legend like Onyeka Onwenu. She's got what it takes to be an icon like the Elegant Stallion. The title of one of Ego's new songs 'Bia Nulu' might be a testament to this.

Source: www.goodlife.com.ng, RV
Contact Us: tolukandi@yahoo.com

UPDATE ON ALHAJI SIKIRU AYINDE BARRISTER'S CONDITION.

2010-09-01T17:35:00.000-07:00

Contrary to rumours that Alhaji Sikiru Ayinde Barrister is dead, RV has gathered that the ailing Fuji Musician who is popularly known as Alhaji Agba is alive. Barrister was flown to Germany late last month for a corrective surgery on his ribs due to a defect that occurred during an operation he had in India earlier on. Reports coming in state that due to the defect that was sustained in India, Barrister lost some weight and his condition worsened. He had to go to Germany to correct the crack in his ribs. According to Alhaji Lati Alagbada, the CEO of Lati Alagbada and Sons, [ The Label manages Alhaji Agba ], Barrister's operation in Germany was successful. Lati Alagbada also said the Fuji icon will be back in Nigeria in two weeks time. RV has been monitoring the progress of Alhaji Sikiru Ayinde Barrister's treatment following the series of illnesses that have kept him bedridden. We've also called on Nigerians and the Fuji Musicians Association of Nigeria [ FUMAN ] to raise awareness about Barrister's condition with a view to getting the Federal Government to come to his aid.

Source: PM News.

Contact Us: tolukandi@yahoo.com

AKON SET TO HEADLINE 7UP'S 50TH ANNIVERSARY CELEBRATION CONCERT IN NIGERIA.

2010-09-01T16:03:00.000-07:00

Music lovers in Nigeria are in for a swell time come October 16, 2010. This is because Seven Up Bottling Company PLC will be staging a big indoor concert about two weeks after Nigeria clocks 50 years as an Independent Commonwealth country, with Senegalese-American artist Akon as the headline act. At an interactive session with the media held at Eko Hotel and Suites, Lagos, Faysal El-Khalil, Chairman of the soft drinks company said- 'Seven Bottling Company is planning an anniversary event tagged ''7UP Future Is Green Bash'' on October 16 2010, that will feature Akon and big Nigerian stars.' Akon, whose real name is Aliaune Thiam was born in St Louis, grew up in Senegal and returned later on to the United States with his family when he was seven. He is a Rapper, Singer-Songwriter, Record Producer, Businessman and Philanthropist.

Founder of two Record Labels, Konvict Muzik and Kon Live Distribution, Akon won the Favourite Soul/R&B Male Artist Plaque at the American Music Awards in 2007. He has confirmed that that he is working on a reality show to be known as 'My Brother's Keeper'. The show will feature Akon's two nearly identical brothers going to different places in Atlanta, Georgia, posing as their famous sibling and fooling people that they are the music star. Akon has maintained that people have mistaken his brothers for him many times in Atlanta. This case of mistaken identity will serve as the theme of the reality show. The Seven Up Bottling Company PLC is the Independent manufacturer and distributor of the well known and widely consumed brand of soft drinks in Nigeria- Pepsi, 7UP, Mirinda, Mountain Dew and Teem. The company has nine manufacturing plants in Nigeria with headquarters in Beirut, Lebanon.

Sources: 234next.com, sevenup.org, RV.

DOMINO: DID SHAWN ANTOINE IVY REALLY STEAL SNOOP DOGG'S STYLE?

2010-08-30T10:34:00.000-07:00

I remember that look on Yinka Agbabiaka's face back in 1994. We were students of Ijebu-Ode Grammar School, Ijebu-Ode, Ogun State, at that time. Like other teenage Nigerian boys, we were fans of American Hip-Hop artistes and rappers. Yinka was humming Domino's 'Ghetto Jam'to himself in class that day. I looked at him and smiled. Yinka looked up and met my gaze. 'Domino is really good, Tolu.'he said. I agreed with him absolutely. I had spent the previous holiday watching music videos in Lagos and Domino's videos stood out. His music was infectious and he had this laid back way of delivering his rhymes. It is 2010 and I'm wondering why Domino did not blow up like other LA Rappers.

Lets look at how Shawn Antoine Ivy started out as a Rapper and Singer. From RV's research, it has been discovered that two rival LA Gangs, the Bloods and the Crips, did the unthinkable by collaborating on a music project in 1993. The album titled 'Banging on Wax' featured members from the two notorious gangs and it was produced by Ron 'Ronnie Ron' Philips and rapper Tweedy Bird LOC. Though the album was recorded in two weeks, it turned out to be an underground hit with over 400,000 copies sold. Domino was one of the rappers on the album [ Domino performed under the stage name, Genuine Draft, on the LP ] alongside gang members like Sin Loc, Blue Ragg, Red Rag and Lil' Stretch. Domino's track was the first song on 'Banging On Wax' and he caught the ears of Hip-Hop afficionados with his style. The St Louis, Missouri, born artist could rap and sing at the same time. This unique ability set him apart from his contemporaries.

In December 1993, Domino came out with his debut album 'Domino'{ Outburst/Def Jam Records } and the world celebrated the birth of a new rapper. The album had a jazzy feel with thudding beats that brought the dance halls down. Listening to tracks like 'Ghetto Jam' and 'Long Beach Thang' makes you feel that the music is actually being recorded live in your listening space. Domino's songs also had good videos with beautiful ladies that made good eye candy. Have you seen the videos of 'Sweet Potato Pie' and 'Physical Funk'? You're bound to appreciate the fact that men cannot do without women. All the songs on Domino's first album were good and Gilliam [ The composer of most of the songs ] deserves some praise. Domino followed up with other albums 'Physical Funk' [ 1996, Outburst/Def Jam ]and D-freaked it [ 2001/Slipdisc ]. These two albums were not as successful as his first release and Domino gradually faded out of the music scene.

The reason given for Domino's musical demise is that West Coast Rap music fans felt that he stole Snoop Dogg's style. Snoop Dogg was just blossoming when Domino released his first album. This led to Domino's initial followers abandoning him for Snoop Dogg who was being promoted by Dr Dre and Death Row Records. The questions that comes to mind is this: Did Domino really steal Snoop Dogg's style? Or is he a victim of the politics and power play in the American Music industry? Having listened to Domino's songs, I don't think he sounds like Snoop Dogg. Afterall, every genre of music has more than five artists recording at the same time. To me, Snoop was more gangster than Domino. Domino's songs were mainly about having a good time, appreciating women and hanging with the guys in the hood. Snoop on the other hand glorified the gangster lifestyle on his early albums. Domino could have been pushed out of the scene due to the fact that powerful commercial interests on the West Coast Rap Scene might have perceived him as a threat to Snoop's rise in the Long Beach area. The fact that Snoop Dogg and Domino are both members of the Crips gang has not shaken this theory. So what really led to Domino's fall from grace to grass? This is the million dollar question that RV wants to answer as time goes on. No one can dispute the fact that Domino is a rapper that knows his onions. Maybe when he comes out with a new album, we'll get to know the truth behind his absence from the scene for so long.

Sources: RV, allmusic.com, Wikipedia

Domino - Sweet Potato Pie [ RV VIDEO FEATURE ].

2010-08-30T05:39:00.000-07:00

Domino was one of the Rap Artists that kept my love for Hip-Hop alive in the 90's. This handsome guy was just too good on the mic. He also had this penchant of featuring beautiful black women in his videos. I'm really impressed with the array of delicious black sisters in the 'Sweet Potato Pie' video above. Shawn Antoine Ivy [ Domino ] was one of the forerunners who spread the message of G-funk before Snoop Dogg and Warren G popularized it. There has always been this notion that Domino stole the Dogg Father's style, and that this was why his career did not last long. I believe Domino's style was slightly different from Snoop Doggy Dogg's delivery. The beats of Domino's songs including 'Long Beach Thang', 'Tales From the Hood' [ Featuring Chill ] 'Ghetto Jam' [ This banging track opened and ended 98% of Campus Shows in Nigeria in the 90's ] and 'Diggady Domino' were really good. The solid beats which keep me nodding were crafted by DJ Battlecat. The Rap Industry needs guys like Domino back on the scene. We have a story on Domino on this page. Relax and Enjoy this video.

Contact Us: tolukandi@yahoo.com

MELISSA BELL: A MOTHER'S LOVE FOR HER GIFTED DAUGHTER.

2010-08-26T01:58:00.000-07:00

Sometimes, it is not easy to watch those that came years after us in a particular career or profession hit the limelight before our eyes. The pain could even be deeper if the person is close or related to us. We all have the tendency to be a bit envious when others are doing better than us. However, it is human nature to feel insecure if we perceive others are doing better than us. This brings us to the admirable behaviour of Melissa Bell towards her Award winning daughter and 2008 X-Factor winner, Alexandra Burke.

Melissa Bell, a Londoner of Jamaican ancestry is a former member of the Grammy winning R&B act, Soul II Soul. She was one of the group's singers alongside Caron Wheeler, Doreen Waddell, Lamya Al-Mugheiry and Rose Windross. She left Soul II Soul in 1997 to form and front another group, Soul Explosion. The group has been in existence since 1999. You can watch videos of Melissa performing with Soul Explosion on YOUTUBE. The crux of this article is how she has refused Alexandra Burke's offer to donate one of her kidneys to her in a bid to save her life. Melissa is suffering from kidney failure and she has been on dialysis for about 18 months while waiting for a kidney on the NHS. Bell's family have a history of diabetes and her children Aaron, David, Sheneice and Alexandra could come down with the condition in the future.

Melissa is remarkable as she gives her reasons for not accepting Alexandra's Kidney. According to her- 'I need a new kidney. Alex offered me hers and was very serious about it, but if you take a kidney from a woman who hasn't had babies, you take away her chance of raising a family. That's more than robbery. It is downright wicked.' Melissa knows the consequences of taking her daughter's kidney and she wants Alex to savour the joy of holding a baby in her arms. She has accepted to take a kidney from David, her eldest son. David has just finished writing his final exams at Hertfordshire University and he is willing to help his mother out. After Alexandra triumphed at the X-Factor finals in 2008, stories popped up in the mainstream media about a rift between her and Melissa. The grapevine hinted that Melissa was jealous of her daughter's success. Alex's mum snapped back- 'What type of mum is jealous of her daughter? She doesn't have the millions yet, but when she does she'll look after me.'

Alexandra Burke who celebrated her 22nd birthday yesterday with a work trip to Ireland [ Burke's new song 'Start With You' comes out in the country this week ] will surely be able to take care of her mother very soon. This is because her career is on the rise. Her debut album 'Overcome' ( Syco Music, 2009 ) sold 132,000 copies in its first week of release. Four songs on the album, 'Hallelujah', 'Bad Boys', 'Broken Heels' and 'All Night Long' are very popular and have done well on the UK and Irish Singles Charts. 'Overcome' was also certified platinum in the United Kingdom and has been nominated for Best Album 2010 at the Urban Music Awards. You need to buy a copy of 'Overcome' to get my drift. Alexandra has a £1 Million contract with Simon Cowell's Syco Records [ A subsidiary of Sony BMG ] for winning the X-Factor. She has already received a £150,000 cash advance while the remaining money has been allocated to recording and marketing costs. RV is proud to associate with Melissa Bell and her wonderful daughter, Alexandra Burke [ Burke has been romantically linked with English Rugby player Danny Cipriani recently ]. They have set a good example as to how a Mother-Daughter relationship should be like irrespective of fame and media hype.

Sources: Evening Standard ( London ), Wikipedia, mrpaparazzi.com, RV.
Where To Find Alexandra Burke Online: twitter.com/alexandramusic, www.alexandraburkeofficial.com

NAUGHTY BY NATURE IS BACK TO ROCK THE HIP-HOP MUSIC SCENE.

2010-08-25T04:45:00.000-07:00

If you're one of those who keep dropping comments on YOUTUBE about the wack rappers whose music are being forced into our ears by the radio stations, it is time to sheathe your sword and relax. This is because Naughty By Nature is back on the Hip-Hop scene with an album that will be released in December 2010. Naughty By Nature was formed in 1989 in East Orange, New Jersey, USA. After building up a strong reputation on the underground hip-hop scene with their ghetto style brand of music, Treach [ Anthony Crisis ], Vin Rock [ Vincent Brown ] and DJ Kay Gee [ Keir Gist ] came out with their 1991 self titled album 'Naughty By Nature' which announced their talent to the world. One of their songs 'O.P.P' became an anthem to rap fans all over the globe. The song was No 6 on the Billboard Hot 100 and was chosen as one of the top 100 rap singles of all time in 1998 by The Source Magazine.

Mentored by Queen Latifah [ She was already an established Hip-Hop Star in the early 90's ] and spurred on by the number of fans they had, Naughty By Nature continued to churn out hit after hit. The group blessed us with banging tracks like 'Hip Hip Hooray', 'Uptown Anthem', 'Jamboree', 'Everything's Gonna Be Alright', etc. Treach became an actor along the way and he was in the movie 'Juice'[ 1992 ] alongside Tupac Shakur. Treach's friendship with 2pac started after they met on the set of the movie. Naughty By Nature's song 'Mourn You Till I Join You' is dedicated to the rap legend. Treach also appeared in the films 'Jason's Lyric' and 'Who's The Man'. DJ Kay Gee has also worked with R&B groups like Zhane and Next. Naughty By Nature won a Grammy Award in 1996 with 'Poverty's Paradise' which was chosen as the Best Rap Album.

What delights us at RV is that the group's new album is ready. We've gathered that Naughty by Nature have signed a new distribution deal with with their erstwhile label, Tommy Boy Records, to release an EP through the group's Illtown Records. The EP has two tracks 'Get to know Me Better' and 'I gotta lotta' from their new album titled 'Anthem Inc'. The two fresh tracks mentioned are available for download through itunes and other digital retailers. Naughty By Nature as a group has evolved over the years and are still around to make great music. Treach sums up my feelings with his spot on comment- 'Some of the artists out there lost their love for it as they get older in the game. They don't have that hunger and the fight anymore. So they feel they can't keep up. In my book it is like this: Keep doing it until you know you're wack. Good music is good music. If you keep throwing it at 'em and keep feeding the people, they gonna appreciate and respect it.' A check on the group's website reveals that the site is under construction. This goes to show that Vin Rock, Treach and DJ Kay Gee are working behind the scenes to update their gateway to the world. RV will keep you informed about fresh developments concerning Naughty By Nature's new album.

Sources: boombox.com, Wikipedia, RV

Contact Us: tolukandi@yahoo.com

SIKIRU AYINDE BARRISTER'S RECOVERY CONCERT AND FUMAN'S AWAKENING.

2010-08-22T01:53:00.000-07:00

RV has gathered that a Recovery Concert is being organised with the aim of raising funds for the treatment of Fuji Music Legend, Alhaji Sikiru Ayinde Barrister. Sources say the Recovery Concert would take place in Lagos and Ibadan [ Barrister has a large fan base in the two dynamic cities ] where his ardent listeners will have the opportunity of supporting him as he goes through this tough period of his life and career. The event which has received the blessings of Barrister's friend and fellow Fuji exponent, General Kollington Ayinla, and the leadership of the Fuji Musicians Association of Nigeria [ FUMAN ] will take place as soon as possible because funds are needed for Barrister's treatment. The sponsors of the concert and other associated events will be revealed to the public in two weeks time. The event will take place at the end of the Muslim Ramadan period.

Another interesting development is the decision of members of the Fuji Musicians Association of Nigeria [ FUMAN ] to open a Recovery Bank Account for Alhaji Agba. FUMAN members have also agreed to contribute 1000 Naira [ £5 ] each to the account. This gesture goes to show that the association has woken up to its responsibility in ensuring that Sikiru Ayinde Barrister recovers from the sickness that has kept him bedridden for some time now. However, RV thinks FUMAN needs to do more. The Association needs to approach the Presidency in Abuja for support because Barrister is a national hero who fought in the Civil War to keep Nigeria together. RV will keep readers informed about fresh developments concerning Alhaji Agba's sickness and attempts to ensure that he does not die needlessly.

Sources: www.tribune.com.ng, RV.

P-SQUARE SEALS $2M GLOBACOM ENDORSEMENT DEAL.

2010-08-22T00:52:00.000-07:00

If you can remember, we announced the intention of one of Nigeria's foremost telecommunication companies, Globacom, to sign R&B and African Hip-Hop duo, P-Square, as Brand Ambassadors some weeks ago. We are glad to let you know that the deal has been signed, sealed and delivered. Paul and Peter Okoye were signed as the latest Glo Ambassadors at a colourful ceremony last Tuesday at the Mike Adenuga Towers in Lagos, Nigeria. According to Golobacom's Group Chief Operating Officer, Mr Mohammed Jameel-

'P-Square remains a well focused and popular music group and the youths of this country and the continent find the group worthy of emulation. The choice of P-Square to join our brand ambassadors was therefore not misplaced. We have carefully selected our crop of brand ambassadors and we believe they represent the very best in their chosen professions. We have been actively projecting enterprising Nigerians who have excelled in their fields of endeavour. We are of the firm belief that their faces would help fire the aspirations and dreams of many youths to reach for their goals and rule their world.'

P-Square described the endorsement as a welcome recognition of the group's contribution to the entertainment industry in Nigeria and Africa. The duo also believes that their role as Globacom Ambassadors will inspire them to achieve more as artists. Our sources say the P-Square-Globacom deal is worth $2 Million Dollars. Peter and Paul Okoye are from Ifite Dunu, Anambra State, Nigeria. Their best selling album 'Game Over' [ 2005 ] has sold 8 million copies worldwide. P-Square won the Video of The Year @ the 2008 Channel O Music Awards with the video of their hit track, 'Do Me'. RV felicitates with P-Square on their mouthwatering deal with Globacom.

Sources: nigeriafilms.com, RV, Wikipedia.

TERRY THA RAPMAN'S ORDEAL IN THE HANDS OF LAGOS STATE POLICEMEN.

2010-08-10T10:47:00.000-07:00

While most of us were either about to sleep or were enduring the night shift at work, depending on which part of the world we live in, Terry Terhamba Madaki A.K.A Terry Tha Rapman's unfortunate encounter with men of the Lagos State Police Command was just starting. The incident took place last week Thursday in the Ikeja area of Lagos, Nigeria. After engaging in some promotional work with his Manager and having a couple of meetings with him in the Allen Avenue district of Ikeja earlier in the day, Terry also visited his friend who owned an events company to arrange some shows. Around 11pm that Fateful night, Terry Madaki crossed paths with the Men In Black.

As the Nassarawa/Benue indigene tried to get a cab on Toyin Street, a commercial bus packed with Policemen stopped nearby and the cops started pushing people into the vehicle. Terry, who claimed he was not dressed suspiciously or drunk, was not initially approached by the marauding officers. However, the rapper was soon ordered to join the other unlucky victims in the bus at gunpoint. He resisted and was shoved into the bus while one of the policemen quickly sat on his laps as a measure of stopping him from jumping out of the vehicle. Terry's efforts to find out what he had done wrong was rebuffed by the Sergeant in charge of the raid. The Sergeant barked at him to shut up and told him he would know his offence when he got to the Police Station. The Aquarian kept his cool due to the weapons the policemen brandished.

Terry Tha Rapman was locked up in a cell at the Station along with the others. The Rapper however used his initiative and sent text messages to his friends with his BlackBerry, telling them where he was and what he was going through. One of his friends got in touch with the Lagos State Police Commissioner who promptly called the Area Commander of the Police Station where Terry was locked up. The Area Commander swung into action and Terry was brought out of his cell within minutes. The Area Commander identified the gifted Rapper and said he'd gotten a call from Abuja that he had been arrested against his will. The Commander apologised profusely and gave orders that the Sergeant that led the operation should be locked up. Police officers at the Station were surprised and they asked Terry Madaki if he was the son of a Governor. The Rapper told them he was an artist. The officers apologised and took him home in a Patrol Van. Terry's encounter with the Police lasted for two hours.

Terry refused to press charges against the Lagos State Police Command, though he strongly believes the policemen should have queried him before roughing him up at 11pm. Funny enough, two songs on Terry's new album 'Boiz Don Hammer' [ The album will be dropping this month and the video of the title track 'Boiz Don Hammer' will be shot by Clarence Peters ] addressed the type of police harassment he faced last week. Terry Madaki started rapping as far back as 1991 when he was in secondary school. His fame as a Hip-Hop artist grew in Kaduna where he spent almost twenty years. This was due to his featuring on a weekly radio show called 'Rap Attack' where he free-styled and played his demo tapes. He is an alumnus of the Federal Government College, Kaduna and he holds a Diploma in Mass Communications from the Federal Polytechnic in the state. He was a member of the Rap Collective SWATROOT [ Think of Wu Tang Clan and Boot Camp Clik ] which hade Mode 9, Rule Clean, DJ El Dee et al as members. Terry's first album was 'Tha Manifestation' which was released by Payback Tyme Records. He is also featured on the 'Lagos Story Plenti' CD. Terry Tha Rapman is an artist to watch out for. He still has a lot to offer the World Music Industry.

Sources: www.modernghanaweb.com, http://cnenigeria.com/terry/index.htm
Where To Find Terry Tha Rapman Online: www.myspace.com/terrytharapman, www.paybacktymerecords.com

Contact us: tolukandi@yahoo.com

WALAKOLOMBO by Alex Zitto [ RV VIDEO FEATURE ]

2010-08-08T09:09:00.000-07:00

This song takes me way back to when I was a kid in Nigeria. Those were the days when the likes of Alex Zitto, Alex Okorigwe [ Alex O ], Daniel Wilson, Blackky [ Edward Inyang ], Oritz Wiliki, Evi Edna Ogholi and Cecilia Omohinmi were holding us captive with their great music. However, Alex Zitto was phenomenal and different in his approach to music. 'Walakolombo' was a nice track that rocked Lagos Night Clubs and Parties. The video of the song was also good with all those lovely ladies and their smiles. Alex Zitto is half-Nigerian and Half-Ghanaian and he was discovered by Chief Ebenezer Obey who employed him as a Bassist in his band.

After winning the Lekki Music Competition in 1988 with his song 'Tickle Me', Zitto became a favourite of Nigerian music lovers. He went on to record his first album also titled 'Tickle Me' with the music label, Polygram International. His second album, 'Walakolombo' increased his popularity and he started performing at many concerts. In the mid 90's, Alex Zitto emigrated to the United States of America. He lives in Minnesota and he is the founder and president of TIYGGI Inc, a sophisticated recording studio. TIYGGI means 'Talent Is Your God Given Investment'. We've heard that Alex Zitto is planning to return to the Nigerian Music scene with his new album which he is still working on. RV cannot wait for this gifted brother to serenade us once again with his romantic songs. Meanwhile, Enjoy the video above.

Where To Get Alex Zitto Online: www.tiyggi.com

DR SIKIRU AYINDE BARRISTER: A FUJI MUSIC ICON'S FIGHT FOR LIFE.

2010-08-08T04:48:00.000-07:00

On the 28th of July 2010, rumours hovered around Nigeria that Fuji Music icon, Alhaji Sikiru Ayinde Barrister, popularly known as Alhaji Agba, had passed away. The news spread like wild fire and many of his fans in Europe and North America worked the phones to verify if the depressing story was true. In a matter of hours, Barrister's family issued a press statement refuting the story and evidence that the musician was alive was presented to the media. The legend was indeed still with us as he tried to recuperate on a hospital bed in a private hospital in Surulere, Lagos.

However, it is clear that unless urgent steps are taken by Nigerians and the Federal Government to see that Barrister receives first class treatment, Alhaji Agba might soon be lowered into his grave. RV's investigation has lifted the cover off a pot of information that will make you cry. According to our sources, Barry Wonder has been in and out of hospitals in the last three years. He is said to be suffering from a heart condition due to his weight and other related complications. After being flown to a respected hospital in India where he was operated upon without his sickness abating, Barrister is back in Nigeria to continue his battle to be healthy again. We've received information that Barrister left the Indian hospital because the bills were accumulating while his health was not improving. It is important to note that Barrister denied reports that he had visited Prophet Temitope Joshua's Synagogue Church of All Nations for succour in 2008. Sikiru Ayinde Barrister said he remained a Muslim and would not let his faith down by seeking healing in a church.

So what is Barrister's current state of health? According to our trusted sources, the Fuji exponent's condition is not really improving. Barry Wonder cannot sit or stand up without assistance from people. He also finds it difficult to recognize visitors who have been allowed access to him. Until recently, Barrister found it difficult to defecate but the situation has been arrested by the doctors treating him. Barrister's ailment has elements of hypertension and diabetes. He is said to have developed hypertension after his house was gutted by fire in 1996. Shortly after, his weight led to his being diabetic. RV has confirmed that Barrister sustained a leg injury in 1968 while he was serving as a soldier in the Nigerian Army during the civil war. The injury has troubled the Fuji star since then and the pains he feels has aggravated his bad state of health. Barrister has not featured on the Nigerian Music scene in recent times, and has only been able to perform while seated in the few live shows he honoured.

Though there are plans to fly him abroad for the second time for proper treatment, RV feels it is time for Nigerians and especially the Federal Government to rise to the occasion and ensure Barrister does not die unnecessarily. Alhaji Sikiru Ayinde Barrister is an ex-soldier who fought to make sure Nigeria remained one during the civil war ( July 6, 1967-January 15, 1970 ). He sustained his leg injury which has contributed to his present predicament as a serviceman. This is why President Goodluck Jonathan should intervene in this matter. Barrister is a National Hero and should be treated as such. It won't be out of place if the Presidency funds his treatment abroad and makes sure he is flown out immediately. The Fuji Musicians Association of Nigeria ( FUMAN ) should go beyond asking for prayers from Nigerians and start a fundraising campaign to help one of their own. Nigerians at home and in diaspora can also write to Newspapers and Magazines calling for the FG's Intervention on this issue, and also help raise cash for Alhaji Agba's treatment. RV wishes Dr Sikiru Ayinde Barrister a quick recovery and more years of thrilling us with his brand of Fuji Music.

Sources: www.naijarules.com, nigeriafilms.com, artistdirect.com
Contact Us: tolukandi@yahoo.com

T.W.O LEGIT: A DYNAMIC COUPLE'S NEW ALBUM.

2010-08-06T04:37:00.000-07:00

They are one of Nigeria's most admired couples and they've made their marriage a model for single ladies and guys. We started seeing glimpses of their greatness when they were part of the Charly Boy Show in the 90's, but they have raised the stakes in recent years by becoming noted musicians. Now to the gist of the day. RV has gathered that this lovely couple have come out with a new album. Tunde and Wunmi Obe [ As if you don't know who we are talking about already ] released their 5th studio album 'T.W.O Legit' on the 3rd of August 2010 at the Protea Hotels in Lagos. The couple told the media during the launch that the album was inspired by rumours that they were done with music and had embraced Television careers for good.

'T.W.O Legit' was produced by a string of big names in the Nigerian Music Industry. The golden list includes Sean Keyz, Abel Davey, Foster Zeeno, ID Cabasa, Puffy T and Rymzo. The LP is hybrid in nature with dance tracks, thanksgiving songs and family friendly songs in the offing. Watch out for 'Believe In Me'. The track is going to be a classic and our sources say the video of the song is hot. The album's marketing and distribution is being coordinated by Alec's Entertainment and a copy of the CD is being sold for 1000 Naira. Tunde and Wunmi Obe have three children and they are graduates of Lagos State University and the University of Lagos respectively. Wunmi's dad is the late Olu Aboderin, founder of Nigeria's widely read The Punch Newspapers.

Sources: 234Next.com, nigeriafilms.com, RV.

SPICE UP YOUR LIFE WITH AYO OGUNMAKIN'S MUSIC.

2010-08-04T03:53:00.000-07:00

I love checking out music videos on YOUTUBE, and I can remember that I stumbled upon a couple of her videos in 2008. I did not really give all my attention to the videos and I soon forgot about Ayo and her music. However, after writing the piece about Nneka Egbuna's rise on the world music stage and her subsequent collaboration with Nas, I recalled my encounter with Ayo. The memories flooded back because Ayo and Nneka are mixed race Nigerians and they both have links with Germany. If you think Nneka Egbuna is amazing, you need to listen to the music of Ayo Ogunmakin. While Nneka is consolidating her position as Africa's Queen of Contemporary Hip-Soul music, Ayo is working her way up gradually as a versatile soul musician.

Joy Olasunmibo Ogunmakin was born on the 14th of September 1980 in Frenchen near Cologne, Germany. 'Ayo' is the Yoruba translation of her first name, Joy. Her father is Nigerian while her mother is from Romania. Ayo lived briefly for a while in Nigeria with her parents as a baby. She had a turbulent childhood as her mother suffered from drug addiction, went to jail, and her parents later divorced. After spending time in care homes and with foster parents, she returned to live with her father and that was when her musical career started. Her father worked as a DJ and had albums of greats like Fela Kuti, Jimmy Cliff and Bob Marley. Ayo naturally developed a love for music and subsequently recorded her first demo tape. She was then allowed by her father to drop out of school and pursue her music interests.

Ayo worked on her voice before releasing her debut album 'Joyful' in 2006. The album achieved Double-Platinum status in France, Platinum in Germany and Poland, and Gold Status in Greece, Italy and Switzerland. The album which was released in the US by Interscope Records in 2007 sold 500,000 copies in France alone, with an extra 750,000 copies snapped up by music lovers worldwide. Her second album 'Gravity At Last' [ 2008 ] was recorded in the Bahamas with Jay Newland as the Producer once again. 'Gravity At Last' is more introspective with some experimentation with the instrumentals. Ayo has two children with her partner, the Afro-German reggae singer Patrice. They live with their kids in Manhattan, New York City.

Ayo Ogunmakin is highly valued in the Western world. On the 4th of February 2009, Jacques Hintzy, President of UNICEF France, announced that she had been chosen as a Patron of UNICEF to promote the right to education for children worldwide. She has performed with Kenneth 'Babyface' Edmonds, Omar and Cody Chesnutt. A documentary about Ayo's life and her musical journey titled 'Ayo Joy', is being produced by 'Slingshots Music' [ Owned by her Music Manager, Fatou Sow ]and will be released later this year or early 2011. She is also working on a third album which will be out in the stores next year. Ayo and Patrice Plan to build a house in Jamaica. RV will keep you informed about the strides Ayo is taking to make the world feel her vibes.

Sources: www.ayomusic.com, Wikipedia, www.wrasserecords.com, RV.
Where to find Ayo online: www.myspace.com/ayo, www.ayomusic.com

Contact Us: tolukandi@yahoo.com

NEW MICHAEL JACKSON ALBUM DROPS IN NOVEMBER 2010.

2010-08-02T02:44:00.000-07:00

The King of Pop, Michael Joseph Jackson [ August 29, 1958-June 25,2009 ] is not done with music yet. A posthumous album of unreleased Jackson songs will hit Music Stores this November. The new album which does not have an official title presently will feature 10 new tracks including collaborations with Akon, Will.i.am and Ne-Yo. We've also heard that the album will feature several songs recorded in the 1980's that failed to make the cut for Jackson's hit album 'Bad'( 1987 ).

Michael's former Manager, Frank DiLeo talked about the new album in an interview with Rolling Stone Magazine. DiLeo revealed that he has over 100 completed tracks in his Michael Vault and wants to know what Wacko Jacko's fans think of them. Rodney Jenkins, who produced Michael's 2001 'Invincible' album is currently putting finishing touches on the record. The new LP will be the first release in a ten-album deal Michael's estate signed with Sony BMG early this year. The contract which is worth $250 million will see nine more records released before December 2017. Michael Jackson is recognized as the most successful entertainer of all time by the Guinness Book of Records. He is the eight child of the Jackson Family and began his solo career in 1971. His lifetime earnings from royalties on his solo recordings, music videos, revenues from concerts and endorsements have been estimated at $500 million.

Sources: www.smh.com.au, Wikipedia, RV.
Where To Find Michael Jackson online: www.michaeljackson.com

Blackmoon "Buck'em Down" [ RV VIDEO FEATURE ].

2010-08-01T18:27:00.000-07:00

Blackmoon remains one of the most underrated Rap Groups in the history of Hip-Hop Music. I started feeling the dynamic rap skills of Buckshot Shorty in 1993 when I saw him in the video of the group's song 'I Got Cha Opin' [ I coveted the Canadian Hockey Jacket he wore in the video ]. Blackmoon was unique and there was this creative angle to their music. 5ft is also a good rapper and it seems he will be releasing his own solo album very soon. DJ Evil Dee of the Beatminerz is the Pillar of the group. Without his well crafted beats and presence in the group's videos, Blackmoon would not have been popular in the Underground scene. The group's debut album 'Enter Da Stage' sold 350,000 copies in the US alone and is now seen as a classic. I love the video above- The Army Gear, the comradeship, the flow of Buckshot and the camera shots. It is a great video. Enjoy!!

Contact us: tolukandi@yahoo.com

WHY ONYEKA ONWENU RESTRICTED SALES OF HER NEW ALBUM TO CHURCHES.

2010-08-01T15:43:00.000-07:00

When we heard that the Matriach of Nigerian Pop music, Onyeka Onwenu, had restricted sales of her new album, 'Legend', to churches in Nigeria, RV decided to investigate further. We can confidently disclose that the Elegant Stallion is selling her 13 track CD in churches, because she wants to stop music pirates from reaping where they did not sow concerning her work. Onwenu who resigned as the Chairman of the Imo State Arts Council recently stated in a newspaper interview that she does not want to be ripped off as usual by Marketers. According to the Imo State born crooner-

' My new CD is doing very well. We are going around in churches doing direct marketing because I don't want to be offered 5 Naira per CD. That is what most artists are getting. The CD's out on the Street are selling for 200 Naira and by the time you remove the cost of the CD itself ( the sleeve/jacket ) and the marketer takes his own share, you as the musician is left with 5 Naira and that is silly.'

Onyeka and her Marketing and Publicity team at Ayollo Productions are selling her new CD for 1,000 Naira per copy. Onyeka also revealed that some people have bought a copy of the CD for 100,000 Naira with a huge chunk of the money going back to the church of the purchasers. A member of the Fountain of Life Church, Onyeka says she did not release 'Legend' to make money and that she is using the proceeds from her work to further the gospel of the lord. RV also gathered that Onyeka has finished recording the theme song for Nigeria @ 50. She recorded the song for free. Onyeka, who is an indigene of Ideato North LG in Imo State, holds a first degree in International Relations and Communications from Wesley College in Massachussets, USA and a second degree in Media Studies from the New School for Social Research in New York. She has released many albums and great songs including 'You and I', 'One Love', 'I'm The One' and 'Wait For Me [ A duet with King Sunny Ade ]'. Onyeka plans to acquire a broadcast licence later in life. Be assured of quality on air programming if she does that. She will be in a territory she understands.

DJ JIMMY JATT: CELEBRATING NIGERIA'S GREATEST DISC JOCKEY.

2010-07-30T03:34:00.000-07:00

I have not met Jimmy Jatt physically, but he's always been in my imagination since the early 90's. I don't know if Literary Days are still held in Nigeria's Secondary Schools, but back in the 90's, this special day was foremost on the events calendar of our Grammar, Comprehensive, High Schools and Federal Government Colleges. Though the day was called Literary and Debating Day, it was mostly characterised by dancing, choreography and miming of popular artists and their music. The DJ was the most important person of the day and not the guests on the high table who were usually teachers in the schools hosting the event. The organisers in my school, Ijebu-Ode Grammar School [ J.O.G.S ], were fond of paying Jimmy Jatt to perform at the event. Jimmy would then send one of his boys to deejay for him because of other engagements he had. I never saw this amazing DJ with my eyes, but I witnessed what he could do on the Wheels of Steel through his proxies.

Jimmy Amu was born and raised up in Lagos Island, an old section of Lagos State, Nigeria's former capital. He grew up with music all around him and he developed a deep interest in this genre of the arts. He started listening to a lot of Rap and Hip-Hop albums from the late 70's. It was not long before he started to collect albums of American acts like LL Cool Jay, Kurtis Blow, African Bambaata, NWA, etc. Jimmy Amu's [ JATT is an acronym from the initials of his brothers who encouraged him and gave him a hand up in his early days as a Disc Jockey ] rise as a phenomenal party DJ started when he opened shop on Odo Street in Surulere. Odo Street was located strategically in the sense that it was close to Ojuelebga, a very busy and commercial part of Surulere. This made Jimmy's Studio very accessible to budding Hip-Hop artists in the country. He started organising talent shows in his studios and ended up discovering many talented rappers in the process. He networked with Radio Stations and helped his discoveries get their unreleased songs on air.

There are a few Hip-Hop artists in Nigeria today that do not owe their breakthrough to Jimmy Jatt. He has been in the jockeying game for so long that he's become the Don King of Nigerian Entertainment. Long before we started having modern music labels like Kennis Music, Storm Records, Dove Records and the rest of them, Jimmy Jatt had been producing and promoting budding artists in his unique way. This is what has made him popular. Hip-Hop hopefuls identify with him and help spread the word about his skills. He also helped to nurture the careers of spin doctors like DJ Waxy, DJ Funky J and Mix Master Tee among others. Jimmy's Road Block Street Carnival brought famous artists like Ruff, Rugged and Raw, Daddy Showkey, Daddy Fresh, Junior and Pretty and Aladin [ He was known as Chuck Da Bone before his name change ] to our attention. Jatt has also performed at many concerts in Nigeria and internationally. He has made a Disc Jockeying a noble profession in Nigeria. Jimmy can be referred to as a legend.

If you've listened to the song 'Stylee', a collaboration between Jimmy Jatt, Tuface Idibia, Mode 9 and Elajoe, you'll understand what I've been saying all along about this amazing DJ. The song is out of this world and brought together Nigeria's Hip-Hop dons on a track. 'Stylee' the lead single of his career defining mix-tape 'Definition' was named as the 'Best Collabo' at the 2008 Hip-Hop World Awards and the song's video also won Best Music Video at the same event. Jimmy has two daughters and a beautiful wife. He survived a serious car crash on the morning of Saturday March 15, 2008. His GMC SUV ( Which was purchased from the US in 2005 ) was a total write off after the accident. We thank God that Jimmy Jatt is still with us today. He's currently working on a project called 'Battle Field'in an attempt to discover new DJ's. The project has rolled out and winners will be awarded sums of money and other incentives. His TV programme 'Jimmy's Jump Off' is presently being aired on local and international stations. Jimmy Amu is a man of many firsts and RV is proud of this great Nigerian. Keep the flag flying, mate.

Where To Find Jimmy Jatt Online: www.djjimmyjatt.net, twitter.com/jimmyjatt

Contact us: tolukandi@yahoo.com

SADE ADU TO JAM WITH ALICIA KEYS AND JAY-Z @CHARITY CONCERT ON SEPTEMBER 30, 2010.

2010-07-29T15:11:00.000-07:00

British-Nigerian singer, Sadu Adu, will once again keep us entranced with her amazing voice when she graces the stage alongside Jay-Z and Alicia Keys during a charity event on September 30. The seventh annual Black Ball will be held at the New York Hammerstein Ballroom and it is being organized by Keys' Keep A Child Alive Organization . Alicia Keys, who is expecting her first child with Producer-Rapper, Swizz Beatz is delighted that Sade and Jay-Z have agreed to be part of the event. According to Keys-

'Sade and Jay-Z are both icons and both major influences of mine. I'm overwhelmed by their generosity in helping us continue the tradition of making the Black Ball the best fundraiser in NYC.'

The UK version of the Black Ball was held in London this past May with Kasabian and Bryan Ferry performing as guest artists. The Keep A Child Alive Organization assists families struggling with HIV/AIDS throughout India and Africa and has generated more than $10 million since 2004. The KCA has assisted more than 250,000 people since it was co-founded by Keys in 2003. The organization also gives financial grants to Clinical centres and Orphan Care in countries like Uganda and Rwanda. Last year's Black Ball in New York which was also held at the Hammerstein Ballroom raised more than $2 million with a range of celebrities like Nick Cannon, Mary J.Blige, David Bowie, Halle Berry et al supporting the cause.

Sources: mtv.com, RV.

CAN WYCLEF JEAN BRING REAL DEVELOPMENT TO HAITI?

2010-07-27T15:44:00.000-07:00

We've just come across vital information that Nel Ust Wyclef Jean, popularly known as Wyclef Jean, is considering running for the Presidency of Haiti. Haiti's presidential election will hold in November as the much maligned outgoing government of President Rene Preval cannot seek re-election. In a statement sent to the mainstream media yesterday, the family of the ex-Fugees star confirmed for the first time that he was toying with the idea of running for Haiti's top job. According to Wyclef's family-

' Wyclef's commitment to his homeland and its youth is boundless, and he will remain its greatest supporter regardless of whether he is part of the government moving forward. At this time, Wyclef Jean has not announced his intent to run for Haitian president. If and when a decision is made, the media will be alerted immediately.' the statement read.

Our credible sources say that paperwork for Wyclef's candidacy at the November elections has already been completed and submitted. With the statement released by the Jean family, rumours of Clef contesting for the Haitian Presidency has been confirmed. The rumours had increased after the January 12 earthquake that took the lives of 300,000 Haitians and rendered 1.5 million people in the country homeless. Wyclef, who was born in Haiti but raised in New York, USA, is very popular in his country of birth where half of the citizens are under 21 years of age. His Yele Haiti Foundation which was set up in 2005 provides scholarships and relief materials to victims of natural disasters. Clef has also served as a roving ambassador with the current Haitian administration.

Though he has good intentions and a desire to bring real development to the devastated land mass of Haiti with his Presidential ambition, there are some hurdles that Wyclef has to surmount. He has to prove that he has lived in Haiti for five consecutive years and that he has property in the country. Wyclef is required to hold Haitian citizenship only. This is where the problem arises. Clef has an American Passport by naturalization. His political opponents in Haiti might use his American citizenship against him. Political analysts are also wondering if the Hip-Hop artist and philanthropist can survive in the dangerous waters of Haitian politics. There are people who also believe that running a country is different from recording songs and performing at concerts. What cannot be waved aside is Wyclef's cult status in Haiti. Wyclef is a former member of The Fugees, a hip-hop unit whose second album, 'The Score' , sold more than 18 million copies and won a Grammy in 1996.

Sources: uk.news.yahoo.com, guardian.co.uk, Wikipedia, RV.

A MESSAGE FROM TOLU IHIDERO.

2010-07-26T14:36:00.000-07:00

Hi, thanks for taking the time to view this blog. You're one of those that have ensured that traffic to this site has increased. I want to let you and other fans of this blog know that I put in a lot of effort in updating the site. Getting and processing information online takes a lot of time. Getting a post researched and uploaded can take up to two hours. However, I promise you an exciting experience anytime you visit this blog. As you can see, a lot of features are being added to my page consistently. I will place a chat room on the blog very soon. I'm also going to register on Twitter so that I can give you tips, news, events etc as they happen.

I want REDMAN'S VIBEWORLD to be interactive. Therefore, I'll be glad if you can comment on the stories, articles and videos that we post. Your comments will give us the motivation to work harder and sustain the growth of this Media Product. We also want to know what you think about RV and the kind of things you want us to write about. You'll need a GMAIL address to comment on this blog. We'll also be happy if you tell your friends, family and loved ones about RV. Thanks once more for dropping by. Cheers.

Contact: tolukandi@yahoo.com

BOLLYWOOD SNAPS UP K'NAAN [ WAVIN' FLAG ].

2010-07-26T13:02:00.000-07:00

K'naan, the Somalian-Canadian Hip-Hop artiste cum singer, has the world at his feet at the moment. Apart from holding us captive with his well produced song 'Wavin Flag' and appearing on many television shows recently, Keinan Abdi Warsame has won the hearts of Producers in India's biggest entertainment industry, Bollywood. Music composers, Vishal and Shekhar have signed the rapper and songwriter and have already started working with him on some projects. Vishal had travelled to London to discuss another project with a colleague when he discovered that he was sitting on the same table with K'naan's team. K'naan's Manager, Sol Guy, came up with the idea of a K'naan-vishal/shekhar collaboration and the respected Indian Producer agreed on the spot.

Apart from the famous Indian composers mentioned above, K'naan also met with Bollywood actor, Imran Khan. Khan was in the Republic of South Africa for the World Cup finals and was staying in the same hotel with K'naan who emigrated to Canada at age 13. The singer had performed some of his songs including 'Wavin Flag' for a select audience just before the Germany-Uruguay third place match was played. Imran watched K'naan perform and he has this to say- 'I did not know who he was. I had only heard that 'Wavin Flag' was his track. I was mesmerised. As he is a Somalian, his music has that African beat to it'. Imran Khan who believes K'naan's coming to Bollywood is great endorses Coca Cola, the same soft drink which used the Somalian-Canadian's song for its World Cup campaign. K'naan is currently performing at different music festivals in Canada. Some of his songs receiving heavy patronage on YOUTUBE include 'Fatima', 'Take a Minute' and 'I Come Prepared'.

Where To find K'naan online: www.knaanmusic.ning.com, www.myspace.com/knaanmusic

Sources: movies.indiainfo.com, planetradiocity.com

Nneka - Heartbeat ft. Nas [Remix] [ RV VIDEO FEATURE ].

2010-07-25T15:14:00.000-07:00

I came back from West London to my crib about an hour ago. As I was browsing in order to update this blog with current events in the Music Kingdom, I stumbled upon a link. It was about Nneka Egbuna's remix of her famous song, 'Heartbeat' with Nas. After listening to this joint, I went to Youtube and found this video. Though it is a slide show, it is lovely watching it. Here is the link I found on the web-

http://darkfishent.com/Home/nneka-heartbeat-remix-ft-nas

You can copy and paste the link above to listen to the song. Nneka Egbuna is holding the world spellbound at the moment. Enjoy this video. Cheers.

NNEKA EGBUNA NOMINATED FOR NIGERIAN ENTERTAINMENT AWARDS.

2010-07-23T06:42:00.000-07:00

Hip-Soul artist, Nneka Egbuna, has been nominated in two categories for the this year's Nigerian Entertainment Awards. She was selected as a nominee in the 'Indigenous Artist of The Year' and 'Best Soul/Neo Soul Act of the Year' Categories. The Awards ceremony will take place on the 18th of September 2010 at the BMCC Tribeca Performing Art Centre, New York, USA. Kick off time is 5:30pm EST. Nneka is a Nigerian-German musician who has been creating a lot of stir in music circles since she debuted in 2005. Her first album, 'Victim of Truth' ( Released in the UK in 2007 ) was praised as a great effort by the British Media. She has opened for Lauryn Hill and Lenny Kravitz at concerts and she's currently on tour in the United States. Her Distant Relatives tour with Damian Marley and Nas will continue at Newport,Rhode Island, on the 31st of July 2010.

The Nigerian Entertainment Awards is an annual event that recognises the contributions of Nigerians to the Entertainment industry across the world. The anchor for this year's event is Omawunmi. If you are a fan of Nneka Egbuna, you can vote for her through the link below:

http://nigeriaentawards.com/

Source: nnekaworld.com, RV.

THE LIJADU SISTERS: A BLAST FROM THE PAST.

2010-07-23T03:08:00.000-07:00

My father must have been a passionate music lover when he was young. I've come to this conclusion because of the number of records he owns and how he keeps them stacked in the Sanyo Stereo Unit in the sitting room. While going through this stack of records in the late 90's, I came across an album of the Lijadu Sisters. The album was still in a good condition and had as its title 'Sunshine'. The sisters on the album's sleeve were identical in their looks and they were dressed in 70's clothing. I noticed that one of the tracks was titled 'Reincarnation'. I tried to listen to the album back then but other activities made me forget about the Lijadu Sisters until last year. I stumbled upon their music on YOUTUBE, and my further research has shown that the music of Taiwo and Kehinde Lijadu is currently in high demand.

The Lijadu Sisters grew up in Ibadan and were inspired by the music of Aretha Franklin, Victor Olaiya and Miriam Makeba. I could not garner enough information about their teenage years, but they released their first album 'Iya Mi Jowo' ( Mother,Please ] in 1969 on the Decca Records Label. Their music was a mix of Jazz, Afro-beat ( Taking into consideration that they began performing in an era that had Joni Haastrup, Akanka Isidore and Fela Kuti & Koola Lobitos as their contemporaries ) reggae and waka. The sisters worked with the late Biddy Wright [ Biddy was the consumate musician and producer behind the group, Wura Fadaka ] on their third album 'Danger'(1976). This album had tracks like 'Life's Gone Down Low' and 'Amebo'. Another album of their's was 'Sunshine'(1978). This was the album I talked about at the beginning of this piece. A favourite song of mine 'Reincarnation' is on this album. You need to listen to this track. It is well produced and the beat is great. 'Double Trouble'(1984) seems to be the last album the sisters released before they moved to the United States.

Have you taken the time to listen to 'Orere Elejigbo'? This track really made me appreciate the Lijadu Sisters. The lyrics were well composed and the sisters were strong in the vocals. I'm not surprised that they jammed with Ginger Baker, Twins Seven Seven and Orlando Julius Ekemode. Taiwo and Kehinde Lijadu were also in the video of Orlando Julius Ekemode's amazing song 'Adara'. The were the ones in the white clothing and beads. Reliable sources also say the twins had a show on NTA in the late 80's which was known as 'The Lijadu Sisters Show'. I was still very young when the sisters were reigning but their music sounds great today. They have four children between them and it is said that their offspring did not know which of the women was their mother. They also wore each other's clothes. This shows the deep bond between the sisters. The sisters are currently living in New York City, USA. RV does not know if they are still performing gigs or are still in the music business. The sisters have not granted interviews to any Newspaper or Magazine since they left for the States. They have a website which seems to be under construction. There is no central place on the web where their CD's can be bought and their Facebook Page is not interactive. The sisters should realize that they have a lot of fans who want to hear from them and possibly see them at a concert in the near future.

I decided to write this feature on the Lijadu Sisters because we often tend to forget that some people set the pace for artists of today. Before the coming of Yinka Davies,TY Bello, Lara George, Asa, Nneka Egbuna and Ayo, we had the Lijadu Sisters, Theodora Ifudu, Christy Essien Igbokwe and Onyeka Onwenu. I feel it is time our current artists should start drawing ideas from the music of legendary performers like the Lijadu Sisters. I'm not talking about sampling alone here but also the need to bring our local instruments into mainstream Nigerian R&B and Hip-Hop. Why don't you listen to Nigerian Old School Sounds today? Hmn.

Sources: Google.com, Combandrazor.blogspot.com, RV.

WALE KEEPS THE FIRE BURNING STATESIDE.

2010-07-20T06:19:00.000-07:00

'Though Wale hasn't had a chance to fully prove his mettle, he's shown flashes of brilliance on his mixtapes and guest verses. 2008's 'A Mixtape About Nothing' was more compelling than most people's albums, and he almost stole the show from veteran Black Thought on 'Rising Up'. Still, I'm not drunk enough on the Wale Buzz to crown him the 'next great' anything. I'm witholding my judgement until we see how much of his mixtape skills and guest features translate to an album worth shelling 15 bucks in these hard times for.'
- Henry Adaso ( Henry's Rap and Hip-Hop Blog )

This comment about Wale was made before the release of his debut album 'Attention Deficit' ( Allido Records/Interscope ) in November 2009. Hopefully, Henry Adaso will swallow his views about this talented dude with some humility. What I particularly like about Olubowale Victor Akintimehin [ Folarin ] is that he has not denied his Nigerian background. He still has the a bit of the Yoruba accent when he speaks. In the video of his lovely track 'Diary', the names of the ladies are distinctly Nigerian. Do you remember Akinyele? He was that rapper that we all thought was Nigerian in the 90's. I loved his song 'Da Bomb' but he's since fizzled out. Wale is a breath of fresh air and this guy will be around for a long time.

Wale was born in 1984 to Nigerian immigrant parents in Washington DC [ Nonchalant's Crib ] and he's an American Rapper cum Producer. After attending loads of High Schools, he finally graduated from Quince Orchard High in 2001. A keen footballer, Wale dropped out of Bowie State University in 2004 to pursue his music career. He has released 5 Mixtapes and his latest Mixtape 'More About Nothing' will be dropping on August 3, 2010. Making a living with our natural gifts is not an easy task, but Wale is holding his own in the competitive Hip-Hop Industry. He got his break with the help of WKYS-FM's DJ Alizay who played his songs on his show which was heard in DC. Soon, his single called 'Rhyme of The Century' began getting heavy radio airplay and he got featured in the June 2005 'Unsigned Hype' section of Source Magazine. Wale, who supports the Washington Wizards, has taken his career to greater heights since then.

I don't want to dwell much on Wale's story to fame. I've spent enough time listening to his music online and I'm really impressed with his delivery. He has a lot of tracks on Youtube and I feel you should hear him out and make up up your mind about his talent. I love his combo 'Chillin' with Lady Gaga. Another favourite track of mine is 'Roof'. Wale's flow on this track reminds me of the early material of Nas. I can listen to 'Roof' all day. Other good tracks include 'Pretty Girls', 'Nike Boots' and 'Wale Dance'. Wale's profile is rising by the day and if he does his homework properly, his sophomore album should make the world acknowledge him as a rapper to be reckoned with. I would also love to see Wale working with Nigerian Rappers like Mode 9, M.I, Weird MC and Eldee. This will help him break into the Nigerian Music Market. The future is very bright for Wale and with many people asking for the return of real hip-hop, he is sure to lead the new movement of conscious Hip-Hop artists.

Where To Find Wale Online: www.myspace.com/wale, http://walemusic.ning.com

Wale - "Diary" [ RV VIDEO FEATURE ].

2010-07-20T04:39:00.000-07:00

We love to bring you videos that are amazing and at the same time reflecting some Nigerianess. I came across a short article on Wale in XXL Worldwide Magazine in 2008. I did not think much of him back then and I felt he was one of the Nigerian hustlers trying to make it in the States. I deserve a beating for following that line of thought. Wale was born in Washington DC, USA to Nigerian Immigrant Parents in 1984. He's a Rapper and Producer with lyrical creativity. His debut album, 'Attention Deficit' ( Allido Records/Interscope ) was released in November 2009. I love this video of his song 'Diary'. Wale is really gifted and his music makes sense. To me, he has the intelligence of Nas and the fearsome delivery of Krs One. He is an artiste to watch out for. His story is also on this page. Enjoy!!

GT THE GUITARMAN: THE WAY FORWARD.

2010-07-19T03:23:00.000-07:00

I feel GT The Guitarman has a lot to offer us. I also believe he needs to leave Storm Records and team up with a Record Label that can manage him properly. I'm not saying Obi Asika [ Storm Records CEO ] is incompetent when it comes to artist management, but GT is a gifted musician that needs special handling. Gbemiro Tokunbo Akingbogun [ He is the cousin of my good friend, Siji Akingbogun ] has not achieved much as an artist since he joined Storm Records in July 2005. Though he has built up a fan base that is really passionate about his music, Storm Records has not been able to capitalize successfully on the momentum built by the Ogun State native. As I write this piece, GT The Guitarman does not have a website of his own. Nigerian artistes need to move beyond being featured on the websites of their Record Labels or having Myspace Pages.

It took Storm Records more than three years to release GT's first album, 'The Truth'. Sometimes, I feel Obi Asika's label cares more about the Hip-Hop and Rap Artists ( who obviously have more commercial appeal and would bring in the bucks ) it manages than deep thinking guys like Gbemiro Akingbogun. I doubt if Asa and Nneka Egbuna would have blown up big time if they were managed by Nigerian Record Labels. Yet GT The Guitarman is in the same class with the two gifted ladies I've mentioned. It is just that he has not been able to record in the western world and perform at concerts in Europe and the United States. This is the same guy that appeared in Akon's 'Mama Africa' video which was shot in Ghana. GT has also performed at a lot of shows including Club Nru in South Africa. He has warmed his way into our hearts with his strong vocal skills and his cute look.

From all indications, it seems GT will leave Storm Records soon. The rumours about his impending severing of ties with Storm Records have been in circulation for some weeks now. Gbemiro himself has admitted that he won't be with Obi Asika's outfit forever. Though Mr Asika insists GT is still with Storm Records, Just like Nas, it ain't hard to tell that GT wants to take his career to the next level. What he needs is an International Music Label that will expose him to the world. He also needs to start playing at music festivals [ And there are loads of them ] in Europe and North America. Besides, GT The Guitar Man needs to write and record new songs that have more depth with universal appeal. This does not mean he has to change his style or sell out to the Commercial Music Labels. Gbemiro needs to start collaborating with western artists. To do this, he has to live in Europe or the States for a while.

GT was born in London in London in 1984 and he grew up in Nigeria. His childhood years were rough with his mother being the sole provider for him and his siblings. He began playing the guitar in 2003 and performed in churches with different groups. He got his breakthrough in 2005 when he was approached by Omobaba, a comedian, who liked his music. Omobaba mentored him and took him to a lot of shows before taking him to Dare Art Alade. Dare was impressed after listening to Gbemiro's material and quickly introduced the singer to Obi Asika who signed him immediately after a brief audition. GT has an album in the market titled 'The Truth'. You need to listen to tracks like 'Hustle' [ Bobby Boulders did a good job on the song's video ], 'Osima Gbomi' [ You'll Still Hear Me ], 'Truly' and other memorable songs. GT was truly amazing on the album. His gifts must not be allowed to waste. He needs to move on to avoid being forgotten in the scheme of things.

Contact us: tolukandi@yahoo.com

DAGRIN TO BE IMMORTALIZED IN BIOGRAPHIC FILM.

2010-07-17T10:17:00.000-07:00

A film that is based on the life and times of the late but hugely talented Nigerian rapper, Olaitan Olaonipekun [ A.K.A DAGRIN ], will soon hit the screens. Titled 'Ghetto Dreams', the film which will be directed by Lancelot Imasuen [ Imasuen is the guy behind the Issakaba movies which chronicled the activities of the Bakassi Boys in Eastern Nigeria ] is the story of the growing years of Dagrin, his struggles, rise to fame and his untimely death. The Film will be bankrolled by Stingomania Entertainment. RV has also gathered that a Foundation has been set up in memory of the late rapper. The Foundation, known as The Dagrin Memorial Project, was created to ensure that the family Dagrin left behind is taken care of and that his death is made more bearable for his parents and siblings. The Project will also provide a lasting structure and means to encourage budding entertainment stars.

Dagrin died on Thursday, 22nd April, 2010 after sustaining deep injuries in a car crash. He grew up in the Meiran/Alagbado area of Lagos State, Nigeria. Dagrin's father had three wives and the rapper was the 4th child out of 8 children. His family is originally from Owu in Ogun State. Dagrin's musical talent was noticed while he was a member of the choir at the Redeemed Christian Church of God [ RCCG ] Living God Parish, Meiran, where he used to sing and rap. His death caused a huge uproar in Nigeria and among Nigerians in Europe and America. Some of his songs like 'Ghetto Dreams', 'Pon Pon Pon' and 'Kondo' have become anthems among his fans. He has been called Nigeria's 2Pac due to their similar background, raw lyrics and thug image. Rest in Peace, Dagrin.

Sources: www.vanguardngr.com, RV.

IS LAURYN HILL COMING BACK FOR REAL?

2010-07-17T07:10:00.000-07:00

The news about the possible release of a new Lauryn Hill album put a smile on my face. Different thoughts danced in my head and I started to think of what her new material would sound like. Would she retain her old musical style that was sweet like chocolate but also admonishing us to take a careful look at our lives, or would she come up with fresh music and infuse other genres into her sound? I've not received answers to my questions, but what I'm sure of is that L.Boogie is not going to pander to what the executives running her record label want. She will remain true to herself and her fans as usual.

Lauryn Hill told USA Today: 'There were a number of different reasons why I left, but partly, the support system that I needed was not necessarily in place. There were things about myself, personal-growth things, which I had to go through in order to feel like it was worth it. As musicians and artists, it's important we have an environment and I guess when I say environment, I really mean the music industry that really nurtures these gifts.' Lauryn has not been around for about 11 years. She has spent her time loving her husband, Rohan Marley [ Robert Nesta Marley's son ], taking care of their five children and recording new songs. After thrilling us with her critically acclaimed solo album 'The Miseducation of Lauryn Hill' ( Columbia/Ruffhouse 1998 ), Lauryn dropped another album titled 'MTV Unplugged No 2.0' in 2001. This album contained songs she performed at that year's MTV Unplugged Special. Though the album was panned by a good number of music critics and not seen as a good follow up to 'The Miseducation of Lauryn Hill' by a section of her fans, it went platinum four weeks after release.

Lauryn's staying power remains one of her enduring qualities. I find it amazing that her song 'Mystery of Iniquity' got nominated for a Grammy Award though it was not promoted or played on the radio. While she was away, a lot of blogs and websites were dedicated to her with many of her fans practically asking her to get back into the studios. I missed Lauryn Hill terribly during her self imposed exile from music. I'm playing her debut CD as I write this piece. 'The Miseducation of Lauryn Hill' had the highest first week sales of any album by a female artist in History ( 423,000 copies sold in first week after release ). The album also topped the Billboard 200 albums chart for 4 weeks with Lauryn earning $25 Million from record sales and touring between 1998 and 1999. 'The Miseducation of Lauryn Hill' received 10 Grammy nominations with Lauryn taking home 5 Grammy Awards including Album of the year [ 1998 ].

Lauryn Noel Hill, who's written and produced hit songs for Aretha Franklin and Cece Winans, was born in 1975 to Valerie Hill and Mal Hill in South Orange, New Jersey. She displayed her artistic abilities to the world when at age 13, she appeared on 'Amateur Night' on Showtime at the Apollo. Though she lost the competition, Lauryn's vision was strong. While in High School, She formed The Fugees with Wyclef Jean and his cousin Prakazrel Michel. The group's album 'The Score' won two Grammy Awards for Best Rap Album and Best R&B Performance by a Duo or Group. Fugees became the largest selling rap group of all time and the members dispersed to work on individual projects later on. Though Wyclef Jean has been the most consistent Fugee in terms of musical output, Lauryn Hill has remained larger than life and popular than Clef and Praz.

Though I'm excited with the prospects of Lauryn's return to the music scene, I've got my doubts about the news. RV has gathered that the 35 year old gave a brilliant performance at the Harmony Festival in Santa Rosa, California, early this month. We've also been told that Lauryn Plans to perform at the Rock The Bells Festival series in August. However, we've always been told of Lauryn's comeback for many years only to be disappointed. What about the concerts she bungled at the last minute and her clash with officials of the Roman Catholic Church in 2003? Lauryn had denounced the church due to molestations of boys by Catholic priests in the USA during a concert at the Vatican. The Catholic League responded by saying she was 'Pathologically Miserable' and that her career was declining. She has also failed to calm down and ensure a Fugees Reunion. And what about the average performances she gave out at concerts in recent years? I'm only holding on to what she told Npr.Com-
' It is just time. I'm starting to get excited again'. Lets hope she sticks to her words this time around. Welcome back, L Boogie.

Sources: timeslive.co.za, mtv.com, Wikipedia, tv.com, RV.

BET AWARDS 2010 AND THE INJUSTICE DONE TO AFRICAN ARTISTES.

2010-07-14T15:36:00.000-07:00

The organisers of the Black Entertainment Television Awards ( BET Awards ) need to answer this question: Is the event meant to honour Black musicians that are based in or have origins in the Western World alone? I must admit that I started following the BET Awards from 2009. What irks me is the way African artistes were treated at this year's ceremony. We saw American Artistes like Chris Brown, Kanye West, Alicia Keys, T.I, Drake, Eminem etc perform but not one single African Artiste was on stage that night. Are Africans not black too? Another grudge I have against BET is the Award that was given to Dizzee Rascal as the Best International Act. The nominated musicians for this Awards Category were- Kojo Antwi [ Ghana ], Chipmunk [ UK ], Dizzee Rascal [ UK ], Estelle [ UK ], Hip-Hop Pantsula [ South Africa ], M.I [ Nigeria ], P-Square [ Nigeria ], K'NAAN [ Somalia ] Sade [ UK ] and Corrine Bailey Rae [ UK ].

With the rapid development of African music in recent years, BET should have encouraged artists from our continent by giving the Best International Act award to one of the African nominees. Personally, I believe K'naan should have won the award. His music is mind blowing and 2010 is his year. How can an artiste whose song 'Waving Flag' has become a global anthem be relegated to the background at the awards? K'naan was not even allowed to display his skills to the world through a performance. And how is Dizzee Rascal better than Sade Adu? Sade is a legend in her own right and should have been given better recognition at the event. There has been a lot of talk in the States about the Nigerian Hip-Hop industry [ Rest In Peace, Da Grin ] and Nigerian musicians have been performing at Music festivals in America for ages. At least P-Square or M.I should have been allowed to perform at the main event anchored by Queen Latifah. It would have encouraged upcoming acts in Africa to take their careers seriously.

BET has to realise that Africa is the source of black music and entertainment. The organisers of the BET Awards are descendants of slaves who were shipped to America. These slaves did not forget their music forms and as time went on they started singing Negro spirituals. Then came Jazz, soul, blues, Hip-Hop and Rap. African music has come of age and the internet has made it easy to share music files and watch music videos anywhere you are in the world. BET has to make amends at next year's event. If African musicians can be honoured at the Grammy Awards, I wonder why Africa is being ignored at the BET Awards. K'naan has proved that it is possible to blend African sounds with western instrumentation and still come out with something great. I hope my rant will get to the BET Awards organisers. RV says things as they are.

IBINABO FIBERESIMA: RV MINI BIOGRAPHY.

2010-07-14T11:40:00.000-07:00

Ibinabo Fiberesima is a Nigerian actress, ex-beauty queen and Events Manager. She is from Rivers State, Nigeria, and she is the child of Dr J.B Fiberesima and an Irish woman. Ibinabo attended the Y.M.C.A Play Centre, Port Hacourt and had her secondary education at the Federal Government Girls College [ F.G.G.C ], New Bussa, Niger State, Nigeria. She graduated from the University of Ibadan with B.A Degree in English Language and Literature. She got into entertainment after winning the Miss Wonderland Beauty Pageant in 1997. She was the First Runner up at the Miss Nigeria 1991 beauty contest. Due to her love for music and the arts, Ibinabo went into Night Club Management in the 90's and she ran her club, Pyramid and Karaoke, [ A gift from a lover who was besotted with her ] for six years.

As the years rolled on, Ibinabo also started acting. I hope you've not forgotten her solid performance in 'Most Wanted' ( Nigeria's version of 'Set It Off'. An American movie featuring Queen Latifah in a Gangster role ). Besides acting in other movies, She has also produced a movie 'A Night In The Phillipines'. She also contributed positively to the Nigerian Music Industry by appearing in Music videos especially those of Edward Inyang, whose stage name is Blackky. Ibinabo is the National Director for Nigeria to the Miss Earth Beauty Pageant and Miss International Beauty Pageant [ RV is not sure if the named Paegants are still being organised these days ]. She has three children [ The father of the last child is Fred Amata, a noted Nigerian actor and Movie Producer ]. Ibinabo has been in the spotlight in recent years after accidentally killing Dr Suraj Giwa in a car crash in 2005. She has been to court several times and has been handed a jail sentence. However, she has been able to avoid going to jail. It is not clear when her court battles with the Giwa family will end.

BLACKKY 'DIVORCE' FEATURING IBINABO FIBERESIMA [ RV VIDEO FEATURE ].

2010-07-14T11:10:00.000-07:00

We love doing things differently on this blog. Ibinabo Fiberesima is one of the most beautiful women in Nigeria. She continues to blossom through the years and age has not been able to stop her shinning. We recognise Ibinabo because she has contributed to the growth of the music industry in Nigeria. It should be noted that she was once the owner of a Night Club, Pyramid & Karaoke [ Victoria Island, Lagos, Nigeria ] which she ran for about 6 years in the 90's. We all know music is a vital part of Night Clubbing, and I'm sure some artistes must have launched their careers at Ibinabo's Club.

Ibinabo was also in the music videos of Edward Inyang [ Popularly known as Blackky ] and she really added colour to those videos. Her sexy looks in Blackky's 'Bang Belly'( Hmn, Blackky is a lucky man sha. Ibinabo kissed him in the video as he lay beside the Swimming Pool!! ) and her stunning figure in the red dress she wore for the video of another Blackky song 'Divorce' shows her support for Nigerian music. RV believes in Ibinabo Fiberesima and we are behind her as she comes out of the storms of life blowing hard around her. You're a queen, my dear.

EEDRIS ABDULKAREEM APOLOGISES TO NIGERIA BREWERIES PLC !!!

2010-07-12T15:37:00.000-07:00

Controversial Nigerian Rapper, Eedris Abdulkareem, has swallowed his pride by apologising to Nigeria Breweries Plc on Sunday during the album launch of a musical group known as The Pulse. The event was held at the La Cachette Restaurant in Lagos, Nigeria and Eedris used the opportunity to ask Nigeria Breweries officials at the event for forgiveness over his behaviour in 2004 which resulted in the withdrawal of American Hip-hop Star Artiste, 50 Cents, from a scheduled concert in Nigeria. Eedris had embarrassed Nigeria Breweries PLC by getting himself involved in a scuffle with 50 Cent's entourage at the Murtala Muhammed International Airport in Lagos. There are different angles to the story of the fight between 50 Cent and Eedris, but it is generally believed that one of the Nigerian rapper's men was hospitalised as a result of the fight over seats. 50 Cents returned to America and refused to perform in Port-Harcourt after the incident.

The ex-member of The Remedies [ Eddy Montana, Tony Tetuila and Eedris Abdulkareem started the Hip-Hop. Things did not work out among the trio and they embarked on solo careers as the years rolled by ] who was accompanied by Kenny Ogungbe, the top gun of Kennis Music, tendered his apology in a sober mood and thanked the Beer Producing Company for assisting him in developing his career. The Kano born artiste also publicly declared that he was paid 3 Million Naira for the abandoned concert by Town Criers, an events company. Eedris, who started his music career in 1996, had previously denied that he was paid any appearance fees by Town Criers.

After the 2004 showdown with 50 Cents, Eedris had embarked on a campaign against Nigeria Breweries PLC. He composed a song that mocked the Brewing Company and he also told the audience at a show in South Africa that 50 Cents called Nigerians monkeys. Due to the rapper's aggressive behaviour and the falsehood he was spreading about the company, Nigerian Breweries banned him from performing at any concert it would be organising. Though officials of the company heard his apologies on Sunday, RV does not know if Eedris will be forgiven. Eedris Abdulkareem has been out of circulation for sometime. He's said to have lived in Brazil for sometime and has fathered two children with a Brazilian wife. His sons are appropriately named Lucas and Thiago. RV hopes Eedris has changed finally and will soon cease to be Nigeria's Poster Boy for Thuggish Behaviour.

Sources: modernghana.com, RV.

WHO CAN STOP TOSYN BUCKNOR?

2010-07-12T11:51:00.000-07:00

When I added her as a friend on Facebook, I didn't realize she was already a great woman. Then I started reading comments posted on her profile and found out that she was many things rolled into one. Tosyn Abisona Bucknor is a radio presenter( Top FM, Lagos, Nigeria ), writer, blogger and founder of THESE GENES [ An organization that creates awareness about the misunderstood Sickle Cell Disease through fashion and entertainment ]. Her popularity is gradually reaching cult status and she's got this knack for coming out with new ideas in all her endeavours. However, Tosyn has also shown that she can sing and she has come out with some great songs that are receiving good airplay in Nigeria. Her music is what RV will be really focusing on in this post.

Tosyn sings under the name CON.tra.diction though she's got other alter-egos. I have listened to her songs and I'm impressed with her delivery. The songs were well produced and I've seen a couple of her videos. Let me start with 'Dreams'. This song deals with issues of love and sacrifice, and also inspires us to move and pursue our dreams while staying with those we love. The video of 'Dreams' is on YOUTUBE and it was shot by AK One. It is a colourful video with great camera work and lovely people. You need to listen to this song to get my drift. 'Hidden Motives' is another great track of hers that I listened to on the internet- http://www.ilike.com/artist/Tosyn+Bucknor+the+CONtradiction. This song sounds like a Rock song from one of the numerous British bands I've heard recently. Tosyn also sounds like Corrine Bailey Rae with her philosophical lyrics. 'First' is also available through the link I've given above. It is a song that acknowledges the importance of cherishing the person that we first fell in love with. I'm also of the opinion that the first love Tosyn is talking about in this song is God.

After listening to this great woman's music, I have some questions on my mind. Does Tosyn Bucknor sound too foreign? Can her music sell in Nigeria? Will an average Nigerian music lover pick up her CD when it is eventually released? Tosyn's songs are deep and I'll place her in the category of Asa, GT The Guitar Man and Nneka Egbuna. I feel Tosyn should explore the international market more with her music. With all the swagger and bling that is displayed by the artists making waves in Nigeria, Tosyn's music might appeal to just a small section of Nigerians. While issues concerning the marketability of her music gives me some concern, I'm really proud of what she's achieved so far. Tosyn Bucknor is really versatile and talented. With the energy she puts into her work as an on air personality and musician, it is hard to imagine she has the sickle cell disorder. While growing up, she fell ill many times and had to make several trips to different hospitals where she was given injections, drips, blood transfusions with lots of money being spent in the process.

Her ailment has not stopped her from chasing her dreams. She has this to say to us:
''Most people do not understand that a person living with sickle cell can do anything a person not living with sickle cell can do. The difference is that we have to be more careful.'' Tosyn's story has made me realize that I can achieve anything I set my mind to notwithstanding the circumstances around me. She's a qualified lawyer and also the CEO of S.h.a.r.e.s [ A Network that connects people together ]. I love her music and I feel she has messages she wants us to hear. Tosin Bucknor Rocks!!

Where To Find Tosyn Online: www.speechgirlbucknor.blogspot.com, twitter.com/tosynb

Sources: bellanaija.com, www.ilike.com

Contact us: tolukandi@yahoo.com

BIG BOI: REAL HIP-HOP IS BACK ON TRACK.

2010-07-09T12:18:00.000-07:00

If you've always been concerned about the music being played on radio these days, I feel respite is at your doorstep. I got hooked to the music of Outkast back in the mid 90's. I was in Lagos, Nigeria on holidays as a student of Ijebu-Ode Grammar School, Ijebu-Ode, Ogun State and I'd rented a VHS tape of MTV Raps from a Video Store in the Ogba, Ikeja area of the Centre of Excellence. I discovered Buckshot Shorty and Black Moon through the tape, but I was stunned with the video of Outkast's 'Southernplayalisticadillacmuzik'. Over the years, I've become a huge fan of the group. You just can't ignore the amazing creativity of Andre Benjamin ( Andre 3000 )and Antwan Andre Patton ( Big Boi ). The fact they've received 6 Grammy awards and have sold 25 Million Albums as a group cements their name on Hip Hop Music's Walk of Fame.

Big Boi has just dropped his first official solo CD 'Sir Lucious Left Foot: The Son of Chico Dusty' ( Def Jam, 2010 ) and hip-hop heads are already feeling his effort. Boi has been working on the album since 2004. He tested the waters by releasing 'Royal Flush', 'Something's Gotta Give' and two other songs on the internet. He got positive feedback from his fans but his Record Label, Jive Records, thought otherwise. Jive told him his album was not commercial enough and refused to release it. Big Boi was told to emulate Lil Wayne in order to appeal to people. Our hardworking brother ended his contract with Jive and teamed up with Def Jam in order to push his material. Although the executives at Jive Records stopped Boi from including some dope tracks he recorded with Andre 3000 on this album, we're still left with a good album in our hands.

Boi has stayed true to the Outkast style and I particularly love the single 'Shutterbugg' and its accompanying video. The song is enjoying heaving rotation on the web. Try and listen to 'Follow Us'( A collaboration with Vonnegutt ) and you'll feel getting a Time Machine and disappearing into the roaring 90's. Other songs like 'For Your Sorrows' and 'Royal Flush' will surely make your day. You need to get this CD as soon as possible. I'm happy that Big Boi did not sacrifice creativity for recognition. According to him- ' Nowadays the industry has gotten to be everything other than music, such as who you're sleeping with or getting locked up or beef. I'm here to get back to this music. ' His album was already No 4 on Amazon's hip-hop best-selling pre-orders chart before it was released some days ago. With rappers like Wale, J-Cole and Yelawolf laying bars, we might just be seeing a revival of real hip-hop music.

Where to find Big Boi online: www.bigboi.com, www.myspace.com/bigboi

Sources: bigboi.com, The Independent,UK, RV.

Snoop Dogg - Doggy Dogg World [ RV VIDEO FEATURE ].

2010-07-09T07:34:00.000-07:00

RV believes in great music no matter where the vibe comes from. The video above remains a classic. It just goes to show that there are not many good hip-hop artistes around these days. Snoop Dogg's 'Doggy Dogg World' inspired many budding rappers all over the world when it was released in 1993. I love the song and the accompanying video to bits. The old school setting, the clothing, and the chorus done by The Dramatics reminds me of Soul Train [ That Old famous Dance Show which was aired on Nigerian TV stations in the early 80's ]. If you look at the video properly, you'll see your favourite rappers in it- Dr Dre, Warren G, Foxxy Brown, Kurrupt, Daz, The Dogg Pound Clique et al. I refer to the greatest era of Rap Music as the roaring 90's. I mean 1990-1996. Cheers.

P-SQUARE RAISES THE BAR AFTER THE STORM.

2010-07-09T02:30:00.000-07:00

After losing out to Britain's Dizzee Rascal as Best International Act at the BET Awards 2010, P-Square [ Paul and Peter Okoye ]has continued to make the headlines in a great way. RV has gathered that the group is set to sign a four year endorsement deal with Globacom, a respected African Telecoms Company. The deal is said to be worth 240 Million Naira and an official announcement will be made any moment from now. According to our reliable sources in Globacom, all that is left is for the company's chairman, Mike Adenuga, to give the final approval for the deal to be sealed. Globacom has been interested in P-Square since 2009 after the company started thinking of dropping its biggest music ambassador, D'banj, after the Koko Master's demand for a raise in his endorsement fee. Globacom is keen to add P-Square to its list of ambassadors but we are not sure if the Okoye twins will be replacing D'banj. The twins who are currently on tour in the United States have refused to comment on the new development.

Apart from the Globacom deal, P-Square was recognized at this year's Sierra Leone Music Television Awards [ SLMTV ] awards ceremony. They won the Best African Artists Award at the event. This is the first time SLMTV is honouring non-Sierra Leonan musicians. P-Square are very popular in Sierra Leone. The group has toured many countries around the world and has succeeded in maintaining a high standard. Active from 2004, the twins who are from Ifite Dunu, Anambra State, Nigeria, have a solid fan base in South Africa. Their current album is 'Danger'(2009) which features Tuface Idibia, Frenzy and J Martins.

Sources: RV, Peace Online FM.

TUFACE IDIBIA LIVE@ THE TROXY ON 30TH JULY, 2010.

2010-07-06T05:59:00.000-07:00

Be prepared to hear slogans like 'Nothing Dey Happen', 'Omo, which levels?', and 'Man wey God don bless, no Man can curse'[ He who God has blessed, no Man can curse ] on the July 30 2010 when Nigeria's Innocent Ujah Idibia, popularly known as 2Face, rocks the audience at The Troxy, East London, England. The concert which is being organised by Starmix Management will also feature Mario, an American R&B Pop singer and dancer who has received Grammy Award nominations. The major performer of the night will be Tuface Idibia and he will draw in a lot of Nigerians and Britons of Nigerian descent to the concert. It should be noted that there are a lot of Nigerians in London and 2face is very popular among the Afro-Carribean community in Britain and the United States.

2Face was born in Jos, Plateau State, Nigeria and was a strong member of the Plantashun Boyz, a R&B group that has since broken up. He attended the Institute of Management and Technology [IMT], Enugu, where he did his National Diploma Course in Business Administration. He performed at shows and in parties at IMT and neighbouring institutions like Enugu State University of Science and Technology, Enugu [ ESUT]. A singer-songwriter, 2Face has a rich discography. He has three albums to date: Face2Face [ Kennis Music, 2004 ], Grass2Grace [ Kennis Music, 2006] and The Unstoppable [ Hypertek Label, 2008 and 2010 (International Version)]. 'African Queen', his Award Winning track was the sound track of the 2006 comedy film 'Phat Girlz'. 2Face has won a lot of awards including Best African Act at the MOBO Awards in 2007 and the Best R&B Act at the MTV Africa Music Awards in 2009.

DETAILS OF THE TROXY CONCERT:

The 2Face concert will be hosted by the Award winning MC Jazee Phizzle. Solid Disc Jockeys will be on hand to set the venue on fire with their skills. They include DJ Exclusive and DJ Jam Jam.

ADDRESS: The Troxy, 490 Commercial Road, London, EH1 OHX.
For Ticket Bookings: www.starmixmanagement.com

Sources: Wikipedia, starmixmanagement.com, RV.

MEMORIES AND PHOTOGRAPHS OF GLASTONBURY 2010.

2010-07-03T17:16:00.000-07:00

Glastonbury 2010 has come and gone. This year's event was well packaged as usual. 70 acts thrilled the hordes of music fans at Worthy Farm for almost a week. The event was also used to celebrate the 40th year of the Festival. There were crossover acts from the USA like Stevie Wonder and Snoop Dogg while Corinne Bailey Rae and the Gorillas held forte for our lovely country, Britain. The major setback for Glastonbury 2010 was the withdrawal of the headline act, U2, from the Festival due to frontman Bono's back injury. Notwithstanding the absence of U2, the Festival was memorable with all kinds of artistes holding their own on different stages. Next year's event will be holding from June 22-26, 2011. RV thinks you need to register for next year's event to avoid being left out. Michael Eavis and his family have done well. They are a blessing to the United Kingdom. Cheers.

Contact us: tolukandi@yahoo.com

Nneka - LOVE ( RV VIDEO FEATURE )

2010-07-03T17:06:00.000-07:00

This song by Nneka Egbuna gives you pure eargasm!! The first time I listened to this track, I felt like chatting up Cheryl Cole. It is a love song with a deep meaning. 'Love' is just one of Nneka's cache of amazing songs. To really discover her music, you need to log on to YOUTUBE for an experience you're likely not to forget for a long time. We at RV will also appreciate it if you can visit her well designed Myspace page and her website: www.nnekaworld.com

You will find information about her upcoming appearances on her website. She is performing at different places and events this summer. Step into the world of this charming lady. Cheers.

Contact us @: tolukandi@yahoo.com

Video courtesy of YOUTUBE.

NNEKA EGBUNA: NIGERIA'S QUEEN OF HIP-SOUL MUSIC.

2010-07-03T11:53:00.000-07:00

I don't know how to begin this piece on Nneka Egbuna. I'm lost for words and I must confess that I spent hours researching her online, and wondering whether I've got the right to describe her music and lifestyle. Nneka is indeed beyond description. I'm smitten with the way she sings, raps, talk and answers questions. To me, she is just incredibly talented.

Nneka is from Amawbia in Anambra State, Eastern Nigeria, though she was born and raised in Warri, Delta State. Her mother is German while her father is a full blooded Nigerian. However, Nneka grew up in Nigeria without her biological mother, and instead was taken care of by her step-mum whom she helped in running a local restaurant. Her father was a disciplinarian who did not spare the rod but consistently flogged the young Nneka for any bad behaviour. Nneka's family was not rich and she had to be contented with what she was given. Living in Warri [ A city in the Niger-Delta, Nigeria's oil region ] opened her eyes to the steep poverty and struggle for survival around her. Her Spartan upbringing has influenced her music and lifestyle as an accomplished artiste.

In 2001, Nneka Egbuna left the shores of Nigeria for the first time. It was a journey that she did not choose to make, but which she had to embark on to fulfil her destiny. She arrived in Germany without a knowledge of the German language and her European background. She was taken care of by the German authorities until she got a place of her own. Nneka, a graduate of Anthropology, started singing in her bid to combat loneliness. She found her early years in Germany difficult as she was encountering a new culture and had to come to terms with her identity. In 2005, she started recording with Hip-Hop producers [ Including DJ Farhot, who has really brought out the best in her ] and also performed with a live band. Honestly, I'm really impressed with Nneka's rapid development and ascendancy musically. This is a lady that has been praised by the likes of Lauryn Hill and Nas [ She opened for Nas and Damian Marley on the duo's Distant Relatives Tour ] and has appeared on the David Letterman show in the States.

Nneka's music is a hybrid of Hip-Hop, Funk, Reggae, blues, soul and Jazz with an African touch. Her influences include Nigeria's Afro-Beat legend Fela Anikulapo Kuti and US rapper Mos Def. She's also inspired by the works of Ken Saro Wiwa, the late Nigerian writer and human rights activist, who was executed by General Sani Abacha's ruling junta in 1995 for his spirited campaign against corruption in the oil rich Niger Delta Region. Her affiliation with Ken Saro Wiwa can be seen in her call for Justice, the recognition of human rights, universal love and peace. Her hard work as a passionate musician has not gone unnoticed. She won the Best African Act at the Music of Black Origin Awards [ MOBO ] held in Britain last year. Her popular song 'Heartbeat' is a favourite of people at UK clubs, with the Chase and Status remix of the track captivating mainstream music lovers.

Nneka is signed on to SONY Europe for her first three albums: Victim of Truth (2003), No Longer At Ease (2005) and Tho and Fro (2009). In order to break into the American market, she was signed by SONY Epic and her fourth album 'Concrete Jungle'( A collection of lovely songs ) was released in the States this year. You need to listen to some of her tracks like 'Love', 'God of Mercy', 'Heartbeat', 'Beautiful' [ This song is really refreshing and brilliantly performed by Nneka ] and 'Kangpe'. Nneka is prolific and there are a lot of her songs out there for your listening pleasure. I find it hard to choose any of her songs as my favourite. As soon as you think you've found one of her songs that you can't do without, another hot track of hers pops up on the web. This goes to show the depth of Nneka's talent. She is currently performing in different parts of Europe and the USA. It should be noted that she performed at the Glastonbury Festival on the 25th of June, 2010. This mixed race artiste is garnering global acclaim by the hour. She has displayed a steely determination to be where she is today. Perhaps this comment made by a listener on YOUTUBE sums up my thoughts about Nneka Egbuna-

'' She is so special, So made of feelings...Her voice sounds like a fluttering flag on the top of a mountain, like the wind among the stars...or simply like a symphony..the blue harmony of sounds. ''

Where to find Nneka on the web: twitter.com/nnekaworld, www.myspace.com/nnekaworld, www.facebook.com/nneka.egbuna, www.nnekaworld.com

Sources: www.nnekaworld.com, www.comelime.com, Wikipedia, RV.

DUCK DOWN RECORDS 15TH ANNIVERSARY: DETAILS OF EVENT.

2010-06-27T12:20:00.000-07:00

The Hip-Hop heads running Duck Down Records will mark the label's 15th Anniversary by releasing a commemorative album titled '15 Years of Duck Down Music'. The album will have 18 tracks with the top song from each year of the label's existence dating back to 1995, chosen by the Duck Down fan base. Two bonus tracks from 1993 and 1994, Black Moon's 'Who Got The Props' and Smif-N-Wessun's 'Sound Bwoy Buriel' will also be on the album alongside a new song for 2010 called 'Better Than You'. This song features Sean Price, Buckshot, Skyzoo and Promise and was produced by Double-O of Kidz In The Hall.

July 13th 2010: On the evening of this day, a New York City Album release show for all ages is scheduled to hold at B.B King Blues Club and Grill with performances by:

Boot Camp Clik featuring Sean Price, Buckshot and Smif-N-Wessun
Heltah Skeltah
Skyzoo
Marco Polo&Torace
Kidz In The Hall
Pharoahe Monch

Music will be supplied by DJ Evil Dee and the show will be hosted by Angela Yee and Amanda Diva. The first 50 Guests to arrive the event will receive a limited edition Rocksmith & Duckdown 15 year anniversary T-Shirt. There will also be a Hot 97 MC Battle featuring 8 finalists from 6PM to 8PM.

Tickets for the event are available at: http://www.bbkingblues.com/schedule/moreinfo.cgi?id=5086

Get the tickets for this exciting event while you can!! The show is bound to be exciting and might serve as an opportunity to listen to live performances of classic rap songs. We hope to see you there.

Contact RV: tolukandi@yahoo.com

DUCK DOWN MUSIC CELEBRATES 15TH ANNIVERSARY IN STYLE.

2010-06-27T09:49:00.000-07:00

Duck Down Music and Records is a Hip-Hop Record Label that is known as the base of the Boot Camp Clik, a Hip-Hop collective made up of gifted rappers form the New York area. Duck Down was originally founded as an artiste management company in 1994, but was later established as Duck Down Enterprises in 1995 by Buckshot of the acclaimed Rap Group, Black Moon, and Dru-Ha, his business partner. The label was independent for a while until the success of Duck Down Artistes, Smif-N-Wessun [ Later became Cocoa Brovaz, after a lawsuit filed by the Gun Company, Smith N Wesson, challenged the Rap Group's name ] and Black Moon, made them enter a national distribution deal with Priority Records. The label is currently in a deal with Koch Entertainment after it was dropped by Priority in 2000.

Duck Down Music has sold over 3 Million albums to date. The label is famous for being involved in the 'One Nation Petition' asking for the release of the 2Pac album, 'One Nation' during the summer of 1996. The album featured performances by Duck Down artists, Buckshot [ He remains the face of Duck Down Music and the Boot Camp Clik ]and Smif-N-Wessun. Masta Ace [ Remember him? He was the dude behind hit tracks like 'INC Ride' and 'Jeep Ass Nigguh' ] and Phife Dawg [ Tribe Called Quest ] are also signed to Duck Down Records.

RV felicitates with Duck Down Music as the label celebrates 15 years of churning out good Hip-Hop Music on July 13, 2010. A lowdown of activities related to the Anniversary can be seen in the article above. You need to be in New York to rejoice with these brothers who have defied all odds to be where they are today. As they say, little drops of water makes an ocean. We wish Duck Down Music all the best!!

Sources: Wikipedia, RV, YOUTUBE.

CONRAD MURRAY: GUILTY OR NOT GUILTY?

2010-06-24T02:55:00.000-07:00

A year after the death of the world's most adored musician, Michael Joseph Jackson, one man has continued to generate a lot of attention. His name is Conrad Murray and he was the doctor of the famous entertainer before his demise. Conrad is currently facing charges brought against him by Jackson's family who believe he is responsible for Michael's death. The court papers drawn up by the lawyer of the Jackson family argues that Mr Murray was at Sam's Hofbrau in Los Angeles, where he had been drinking on the night of Wacko Jacko's death. In the ''Notice of Intent to Initiate Legal Proceedings'' against the doctor, the Jackson family stated that it was wrong for him to drink prior to administering anaesthesia to the deceased music star. The family also claims that Conrad Murray concealed his reckless behaviour from Michael Jackson.

With the Notice of Intent that has been scripted by lawyer Brian Oxman on behalf of Joe Jackson, Michael's Father, in existence, the first step towards filing a wrongful death lawsuit against Murray has been taken. If the Jackson Family and their lawyer can prove that the doctor partied at the strip joint ( Sam's Hofbrau )hours before giving Michael Jackson a fatal dose of propofol, Conrad Murray will end up behind bars. RV has however gathered that Mr Murray's defence team are not going down without a fight. A member of his defence team has discredited the allegations that the Jackson family has made against the doctor. He went on to say that Conrad Murray does not drink.

Apart from the allegations in the Notice of Intent served by Joe Jackson's lawyer, Court papers also claim Murray did not provide Michael's medical history to the doctors who attended to him at the UCLA Medical centre on the day of his death. According to the court papers- ''While defendant Murray told Dr.Cooper at the UCLA emergency room that prior to June 25,2009, Michael had not been ill, Michael was suffering from chronic pneumonia, chronic respiratory bronchitis, anaemia and brain swelling.'' If the Jackson Family succeeds in instituting a wrongful death lawsuit against Conrad Murray, the doctor's hope of being a free man will be dashed. This is because he is currently battling against an involuntary manslaughter charge related to Michael Jackson's death. Conrad Murray will be fighting the battle of his life in the coming months. The is the question RV is posting: Is Conrad Murray really responsible for the death of Wacko Jacko? Yeah, it might be tough for the Jackson Family to accept that their brother and son is dead, but has it not been revealed that Michael was terribly sick weeks before his death? Due to the great singer's love of privacy, how can we know the true degree of his sickness before he died? And how does this legal tussle between the Jackson Family and Dr Conrad Murray portray the African-American community in the eyes of the world.

RV has so many questions begging for answers, but we will keep our readers informed concerning developments on this issue. Cheers.

Sources: dailymail.co.uk, msn.com, RV

Contact us @: tolukandi@yahoo.com

MICHAEL JACKSON: REMEMBERING THE KING OF POP.

2010-06-22T05:24:00.000-07:00

By Friday this week [ 25th June 2010 ], It will be a year since we lost the extraordinarily gifted and lovely entertainer, Michael Joseph Jackson. I don't think there is any country in the world where Jackson is not known. His music is embraced by people all over the world irrespective of their race, ethnic leanings, religion or political beliefs. He died when we least expected him to, but he has left a legacy that is really outstanding. RV will be doing a series of stories on him starting from tomorrow. However, we have two of his great quotes for you to savour. Cheers.

'Being onstage is magic. There's nothing like it. You feel the energy of everybody who is out there. You feel it all over your body. When the light hits you... I could stay up there forever.'
- Michael Jackson

'If you enter this world knowing you are loved and you leave this world knowing the same, then everything that happens in between can be dealt with.'
- Michael Jackson

Rest In Peace, Great One.

Harmony Dekya's '' Waste of Life '' from her Demo Album.

2010-06-19T18:11:00.000-07:00

RV is delighted with the amazing music of Harmony Dekya. She is good at what she does and we are confident that she will soon be rocking the British Music Charts. Though we've already featured her on this blog, we will be going the extra mile by interviewing her very soon. We want to be faithful to the pledge that we made when this blog debuted about three months ago-to keep you informed about emerging acts on the British Music Scene. Enjoy!!

Cheers.

WHO IS HARMONY DEKYA? RV ENCOUNTERS A DYNAMIC SINGER.

2010-06-19T15:40:00.000-07:00

While growing up in Africa, I had the privilege of listening to many western artistes courtesy of music shows on TV and my parents eclectic choice of music. I discovered the music of The Beatles, Tina Turner, Donna Summer, Skeeter Davies and Bobby Bare, Bruce Springsteen, Bryan Adams and The Artist Formerly Known as Prince [ T.A.F.K.A.P ] at a very young age and fantasized about the possibility of meeting them later in life. I have not personally met the artistes I've mentioned, but I'm glad to let you know that I have just come across a wonderful British singer with an amazing voice. Honestly, I feel Harmony Dekya is a great lady with huge potentials. With the way she does her thing with so much passion and focus, she's bound to dominate the music charts soon.

Harmony is only 19, but she is far ahead of her time. She has taken the time to learn the rudiments of music and this has helped her to hold her own whenever she is on stage. Harmony started taking piano lessons when she was 3 and by the time she was 6, she was already grade 3 on the Piano. After performing with bands and holding gigs at a tender age, she was offered a place at The Trinity Conservatoire, Greenwich, London. It was there that she learnt the Saxophone and gained a better understanding of music techniques. Harmony has been prominent in the underground music scene of London since the age of 14. She has gigged in many of the city's clubs and has really succeeded in wowing the crowds with her brand of music. She's refreshing in the sense that she writes and produces her own songs.

Dekya's style and approach to music is unique. She is brash and straight-in-your-face, but at the same time she creates a feeling of independence through her lyrics. The Jazz-Rock infusion in her music is noticeable with solid tracks like 'Broken Fingers' and 'Mean Motherfucker'. What I have noticed about Harmony is her voice. She has a voice that connects with your spirit when you listen to her music. To me, her voice is her greatest asset and it will take her to the greatest heights in her career. Beyond Harmony Dekya's tough exterior lies a good heart. When she was much younger, she was taken to London's '' Cardboard City '' [ A community of homeless people living in cardboards which has been shut down since ] and the experience opened her eyes to the fact that Britain's capital had poor people. This could be the reason why she performs at a lot of charity events to raise funds for underprivileged people. Harmony performed at her first charity event when she was 14 years old. The event which was hosted by Sir Richard Attenborough at the famous Drury Lane Theatre, saw a lot of famous actors and actresses encouraging her to soldier on.

Dekya has performed at the same events as Myleene Klass, N-Dubz and other established artistes. Her star quality reflects in her demo album ''The Superficial'', which is released on I-tunes and doing very well even though she has not secured a recording contract. RV believes it is only a matter of time before Harmony Dekya becomes a celebrated singer like Duffy, Estelle and Cheryl Cole. It is not hard to tell that she is a gifted musician. Keep flying high, Britain's emerging diva!!

Where To find Harmony Dekya online: www.harmonydekya.com, www.myspace.com/harmonydekya

Contact the author of this blog at: tolukandi@yahoo.com

Kush - Angels

2010-04-30T07:05:00.000-07:00

RV is happy to bring you this video of KUSH performing their hit single ''Angels'' back in 2003. The three KUSH ladies, Lara George, TY Bello and Emem Ema Obasi are in the video. We are grateful to Google and YOUTUBE for allowing us use this material on this blog. RV is working hard to keep this blog updated consistently. Cheers.

Contact Tolu Ihidero: tolukandi@yahoo.com, tolu.ihidero@gmail.com

THE KUSH CHRONICLES: EMEM EMA OBASI'S UNIQUE STAND.

2010-04-30T03:36:00.000-07:00

Emem was the official rapper of KUSH on the group's album '' The Experience ''. I was really impressed with her delivery, and it was not hard to tell that she made tracks like ''Tic Tac Toe'', ''Lets Live Together'' and ''La La'' sound very interesting. I've since discovered that Emem Ema Obasi is much more than thrilling us with the microphone. Since the break-up of KUSH, she has been making giant strides as a music entrepreneur. Emem graduated from the University of Lagos in 2001 with a Law degree. She attended the Nigerian Law School between 2002-2003. Since then, she's had her hands in various pies in the Media business. She is a co-founder and a leading light at Vzhun Media, and the Executive Director of One Integrated Management Services, a consultancy outfit that assists creative artists with a bid to make their dreams come true.

Emem's parents were staff of the Nigerian Television Authority [ NTA ], so she could be said to be a chip off the old block. Emem was also the Associate Producer ( PR&Marketing ) of NOKIA First Chance/Reflex Media& DaWorks Records/Squirt. She's also the producer of ''Sights and Sounds of Bonny'' a documentary commemorating ten years of the King of Bonny's [ Bonny is in Rivers State, Nigeria ] coronation. It is also pertinent to note that Emem was involved in the production of Kunle Afolayan's landmark movie ''The Figurine''. Apart from helping out in promoting the movie, she was the one that gave Afolayan's work its title. Through O.N.E Management, Emem [ She's fondly called Mem'O these days ]is managing the careers of upcoming Nigerian artists like Ibiyemi [ Her video is on YOUTUBE ], Provabs and Drae. She's putting her energy into music production and management while maintaining a different angle to music and entertainment.

Emem Ema Abasi is also the first Nigerian to win the British Council International Young Music Entrepreneur Award in 2006. She was also the Future Awards Young Entrepreneur of the Year, 2007. You might be tempted to believe that Emem has lost her vocal chords due to her foray into Music Entrepreneurship. Nope. She has a single ''Greenlight'' which is a very inspirational song. Emem talks about the inspiration behind the song- ''You've got a situation where life throws lemons at you. One person sees it as an opportunity to make lemonade and another sees it as a reason to go on rampage as to why life is so unfair. 'Greenlight' was for me as much as it is for everyone out there who has heard it. We can be anything or anyone we choose to be. It starts with determination. I can do all things through Christ. That's where it came from.'' When asked about a possible reunion for KUSH, this is what Emem had to say:

''I'm one part of KUSH. It would have to be a collective decision.'' she said. RV really wants to see this hugely gifted lady team up with Dapo, Lara and Toyin for a second experience as KUSH.

Sources: www.linkedin.com, google.com, one1mgt.com

Where to find Emem Ema Obasi online: twitter.com/vzhun/status/12665889904

Guru Ft Angie Stone - Keep Your Worries

2010-04-22T16:31:00.000-07:00

Guru A.K.A Keith Elam [ 17 July 1962-19 April 2010 ] came from a middle class family in Roxbury, Massachusetts, to New York in pursuit of his dreams to make it in the Rap Game. He met DJ Premier and they recorded some albums together. GURU means '' Gifted Unlimited Rhymes Universal ''. After splitting from DJ Premier, Keith Elam put out some Jazzmatazz albums and he collaborated with other artists including Chaka Khan, Erykah Badu and The Brand New Heavies. He also toured with his new sidekick and producer, MC Solar. According to Guru, his first solo album was ''Version 7.0: The Street Scriptures (2005)''. The album had the imprint of Solar on it. Guru's last projects were the instalments in his JazzMatazz series [ A new genre of Rap Music in which Elam fuses Jazz with Rap ] which were released in June 2007 alongside ''Guru 8.0: Lost And Found'', released May 19,2008. Though there were consistent rumours about a Gang Starr reunion, Guru maintained that he did not want to work with DJ premier again.

DJ Premier has however issued a statement in which he mourned the death of his ex-colleague. According to him, '' It was a sad day for me to get confirmation on the death of a man who I'll continue to call my brother, Keith Elam, better known as Guru of the Legendary Gang Starr...,''. Premier also touched on the issue of the letter allegedly written by Guru [ And which was produced by MC Solar after the rapper's death ] in which his late friend slagged him- ''All I will say is that our time together was beautiful. We built a hip-hop legacy together, and no one can re-write history or take away my love for him. I love you Goo...DJ Premier.'' RV has gathered that Guru's family have said they do not believe he wrote the controversial letter. Keith Elam is survived by his son, KC.

Sources: aceshowbiz.com, Wikipedia, RV.

Contact Tolu Ihidero: tolukandi@yahoo.com

RV NEWS DIGEST: GANG STARR FRONTMAN, GURU, IS DEAD.

2010-04-20T15:59:00.000-07:00

Guru, the front man of Hip-Hop/Rap Group, Gang Starr, is dead. He died yesterday after battling with cancer for a year. Guru [ Keith Elam ] suffered a heart attack on February 28 2010 and subsequently slipped into a coma. 43 year old Guru formed Gang Starr in 1985 with DJ 1, 2B-Down and several producers including Donald D, J.V, and DJ Mark helped out. It was not long before this gifted assembly broke up with Guru deciding to continue his career under the name, Gang Starr. He teamed up with DJ Premier [ Christopher Edward Martin ] in 1989 and the duo put out their first single, ''Words I Manifest'' alongside the album ''No More Mr. Nice Guy''. The group's other albums include ''Daily Operation'' (1992), Hard To Earn (1994) and ''The Ownerz (2003). Gang Starr's style combined elements of New York Swing Jazz and Hip-Hop.

RV gathered that Guru wrote a letter before his death, in which he stated that his producer, Solar, should take care of the elements of his character after his death, and to also ensure that his ex-Gang Starr partner, DJ Premier is not allowed to operate under the group's name. RV will produce an article on Guru's life along with good videos that tell stories. We commiserate with Guru's family, friends and the Amercan Hip-Hop community.

Sources: cnn.com, www.nme.com, RV

Bone Thugs N Harmony "Rebirth" (Official Video)

2010-04-20T14:19:00.000-07:00

Bone Thugs-N-Harmony's new album ''Uni-5: The World's Enemy'' will hit music stores on May 4, 2010. ''Rebirth'' is one of the songs on the new album. RV is happy to share this video with you courtesy of YOUTUBE. Keep visiting this blog. Cheers.

RV NEWS DIGEST: FLESH-N-BONE DENIES ASSAULTING HIS MOTHER.

2010-04-20T13:26:00.000-07:00

Bone Thugs N Harmony's Flesh-N-Bone has railed against charges that he assaulted his mother in 1998. The 36-year-old Rapper claimed that he cannot remember the incident. Flesh, whose real name is Stanley Howse, was arrested last month while performing at a Reunion Concert in Ohio with other BTNH members. He is accused by the Police of hitting his mother with a gun and leaving a 1-inch gash on her head. John O'Brien, a Sherrif's Deputy, revealed that Flesh-N-Bone's Mother and two witnesses have described the incident.

However, while chilling with Layzie Bone, Krayzie Bone and Wish Bone [ Fellow group members ], Howse denied the allegations. According to him: '' I will never do anything like that to my mother. Anyone that thinks I would do something like that need to check themselves ''. Flesh-N-Bone also maintained that he has a solid relationship with his mother. Bone Thugs-N-Harmony are on a promotional tour for their new album, ''Uni-5: The World's Enemy'' which will be released on May 4, 2010. The group won a Grammy in 1997 for Best Rap Performance with the song ''Crossroads''. RV will keep you informed and updated on news concerning Flesh-N-Bone and Bone Thugs-N-Harmony.

Sources: The Associated Press, Google Images, RV.

GLASTONBURY 2010: MICHAEL EAVIS's SOLID PACKAGE.

2010-04-15T05:40:00.000-07:00

Music lovers who will be attending the Glastonbury Music Festival this year will be eating out of a salad bowl of music. This is because Michael Eavis, the English diary farmer who runs the festival of vibes, has decided to bring in a variety of artists from different backgrounds and cultures. The increasingly innovative Eavis has crowd favourites like Snoop Dogg, Dizzee Rascal, Vampire Weekend, Wurzel, Corinne Bailey Rae and Fatboy Slim hitting the stages from Wednesday June 23 to Sunday June 27, 2010. Femi Kuti, the son of Nigeria's Afro-Beat Legend, Fela Anikulapo Kuti, will also be jamming at the event. Glastonbury 2010 is being headlined by Irish Rock band, U2.

Micheal Eavis believes this year's line up of acts is the most staggering in the festival's 40 year history. Femi Kuti will be performing on the Pyramid Stage on Friday 25th June alongside U2. This is indeed a big break for him as he's been causing some stir in music circles internationally. Other great figures performing at the acclaimed festival include Stevie Wonder, Norah Jones, Slash, Ray Davies, Mos Def and faithless. There are loads of upcoming artistes and DJ's who will be manning other stages at the festival. RV is looking forward to Glastonbury 2010. The festival began the day after Jimi Hendrix died in 1970.

Sources: www.glastonburyfestivals.co.uk

Contact Tolu Ihidero: tolu.ihidero@gmail.com, tolukandi@yahoo.com

THE KUSH CHRONICLES: THE ENDURING LEGACY OF DAPO TORIMIRO.

2010-04-14T05:08:00.000-07:00

If you've listened to the KUSH Album, ''The Experience'', you might have been tempted to believe that the group consisted of only three ladies. Apart from the song ''Mercy Way'', Lara, Toyin and Emem were either lead vocals, support vocals or rappers on the other songs. The first time I listened to ''Mercy Way'', I wondered who the guy with the lovely voice was. That guy is Dapo Torimiro, the only male member of KUSH. He was also the producer of the group's only album. With the instrumentation and quality production skills behind ''The Experience'', I'm not surprised that Dapo has become a juggernaut in international music production.

For a man that dropped out of medical school in Nigeria to become a music producer in America, working with music stars he adored and getting credits on their albums is a dream come true. Torimiro, who's a Yamaha endorsed artist and solid multi-instrumentalist worked with Ex-Fugees member, Lauryn Hill, as her keyboardist during her tour in 2006. He has also performed with Stevie Wonder and Lalah Hardaway. Due to his unique techniques in Song writing and Music Production, Dapo was able to place the song ''Quickly'' on John Legend's [ Legend is a five-time Grammy Award winner ] third studio album ''Evolver'' which was released on October 28, 2008. He has also worked with multi-platinum selling R&B diva, Brandy. It is very clear that Dapo's relocation to the United States has helped develop his music career greatly. He's been able to network with important personalities in the American music industry.

Are you also aware that Dapo Tomiro co-wrote and produced the track ''Bigger'' on Canadian kid wonder Justin Bieber's first part of his debut studio album ''My World''? The CD was released on November 17, 2009 by Island Records. Dapo's CV is very impressive and he keeps adding gold nuggets to his profile everyday. He has also taken the time to collaborate with other producers. According to Bruce Waynne of Midi Mafia [ Producers of 50 Cent and Fantasia ], ''Dapo brings something different to the table. You have to do something very special and unique for us to decide to work with you. He plays multiple instruments and he's not just a beat guy. He's someone who can also start from the scratch, but he does it in his own way, from his own perspective.'' This is a huge endorsement of Dapo's talent from a renowned music producer. Dapo worked with Grammy winning producer, Jeffrey Webber, on ''Change'', a song which was recorded for Barack Obama's presidential campaign back in 2008.

I wonder what would have happened if KUSH had not broken up, with Dapo using his songwriting and production talent for the Gospel Group's subsequent albums. The Lagos born dude and his female friends might have received Grammy Award nominations in the Gospel Music category. KUSH had a bright future as a group. It was a project that died prematurely. However, RV thinks Dapo has done well for himself and should consider reuniting with Lara George, TY Bello and Emem Ema for a sophomore album which will surely be outstanding. He literally has the world at his feet right now and has been writing scores for movies recently. Watch out for this amazing guy as the years roll on.

Where to find Dapo Torimiro online: www.myspace.com/dapomiroproductions, www.twitter.com/dapotorimiro, www.dapomiroworks.com

Contact Tolu Ihidero@: tolukandi@yahoo.com, tolu.ihidero@gmail.com

BLACKFACE NAIJA: THE RETURN OF A SOCIAL CRUSADER.

2010-04-11T10:26:00.000-07:00

If you've always been curious about Nigerian music, it is likely that you'll come across the songs of a group called ''The Plantation Boys''. The group played a huge role in bringing Nigerian Hip-Hop and R&B to the attention of music lovers all over the world. Augustine Ahmedu, one of the founding members of Plantation Boys, took a fresh musical direction when the group broke up after their two albums ''Body N Soul'' (2000) and ''Sold Out'' (2003). Unlike his former band mates, Faze [ Chibuzor Orji ] and 2face [ Innocent Idibia ] who are good at releasing love songs and party jams, Blackface has carved a name for himself as a social critic and incurable fighter for human rights. He's just come out of a 2-year hiatus with a new album.

Blackface, who was born at the Creek Military Hospital, Obalende, Lagos, Nigeria in 1974 grew up listening to the music of Boney M, The Whispers and The Sledge Sisters. He was also inspired to pick up the microphone by rappers like Nas, Method Man and Redman. As a student of St Gabriel's Secondary School, Makurdi, in Northern Nigeria, Blackface joined various dance groups and was a member of the school choir. The prolific songwriter later attended the Institute of Management Technology [IMT], Enugu, where he met Tuface and started the Plantation Boys. After the group's demise, he released his solo album ''Ghetto Child'' in 2004. The album revealed Blackface's connection with the suffering masses of his country and thus a revolutionary was born. If you've listened to two of his songs ''E Dey Pain Me'' and ''Hard Life'', you'll get my drift. Though he's not as popular as his ex-bandmates, Augustine Ahmedu has his own dedicated fans who've purchased his other albums like ''Evergreen'' and ''Me,Music and I''.

Lovers of Blackface's brand of music can start smiling because he has a new album in the stores. After touring Europe [ Switzerland and Spain ], he's returned to Nigeria with a fresh dimension to his music. His latest album ''Dancehall Business'' was released on March 27,2010. Blackface collaborated with upcoming artistes like Oti, Ruffman and Rocksteady on some songs in the release. The album is being marketed by his company, Loudhouse Entertainment. Blackface has also taken the time to answer his critics. According to him '' Though people are saying I've not made it like Faze and Tuface and that they're not seeing me like the others, I have my own values. I don't want to be seen all the time. The more you don't see me, the more music I do''. However, it is widely acknowledged that Blackface wrote 2face's hit song ''African Queen'' which was the soundtrack of ''Phat Girls '', a Movie featuring Monique. With his new album, it is time for Augustine Ahmedu to shed his underdog tag and shoot videos that will make music fans acknowledge his talent. RV wishes him the best as he relaunches his music career.

Sources: www.africahit.com, RV

Where to find Blackface online: www.myspace.com/blackfacealive

SPIKE LEE: TELLING STORIES WITH MUSIC AND PICTURES.

2010-04-08T12:33:00.000-07:00

I was very young when I saw his critically acclaimed movie ''Do The Right Thing'' when the world was still into video cassettes and VHS players. Ours was a Toshiba brand and we'd joined a video club in the neighbourhood where we borrowed videos for a specific amount of money. Though ''Do The Right Thing'' portrayed black consciousness and racial violence in inner American cities, Rosie Perez's dance at the beginning of the movie says a lot about Spike Lee's soft spot for music. Born on the 20th of March 1957 in Atlanta, Georgia, Spike had music running in his veins from day one. His father, Bill Lee, was a jazz musician.

Spike Lee has worked with top-notch musicians over the years in his movie directing schedule. The confrontational rap music of Public Enemy was judiciously used in ''Do The Right Thing'' with the hip-hop jazz influences of Gangstarr being featured in ''Mo Betta Blues'' [ This film itself is based on the jazz world ]. The contributions of Terrence Blanchard, a jazz artiste, to Spike Lee's productions is worthy of mention. The trumpet player has his sounds in the background of most of the African-American director's movies. In ''25th Hour'', Blanchard was the film's composer. Another innovative move by Spike Lee was to use Bruce Springsteen's song ''The Fuse'' as the accompanying song to Blanchard's Score on the movie. Movie reviewers found this a bit odd because the soundtracks of Spike's previous productions had largely favoured the sounds of urban America i.e funk, soul, jazz and Hip-Hop.

Spike Lee, whose real name is Shelton Jackson Lee, shot Michael Jackson's videos for '' They Don't Really Care About Us '' [ The video has two versions and they were shot separately in Rio de Janeiro & Bahia in Brazil and New York, USA. ] He also produced Jackson's video ''This Is It'' after the famous singer's death. He has also directed music videos for the likes of Stevie Wonder, Miles Davies and The Artist Formerly Known As Prince [ T.A.F.K.A.P ]. Spike Lee, who's an alumnus of Morehouse College has furthered the careers of black actors including Denzel Washington, Samuel L.Jackson and Lawrence Fishburne. He's succeeded in pushing them into the mainstream of Hollywood acting. In ''Do The Right Thing'', the music imagery was very clear. Radio Raheem signified the Rap culture of the hood with his boom box, while the DJ/Continuity Announcer was like a businessmen selling American music to the world. RV is proud to be associated with Spike Lee. He's a man who has inspired youths all over the world with his films and has helped nurture the growth of Hip-Hop music in a creative way.

Sources: msn.com, feministmusicgeek.com, RV.

THE KUSH CHRONICLES: LARA GEORGE'S GREAT ASPIRATIONS.

2010-04-05T15:34:00.000-07:00

From all indications, Lara George seems to be the one affected most by the break-up of KUSH. Listen to her- '' The inability of the members to be fully dedicated to KUSH was a major challenge that we contended with all through. For us in KUSH, it got to a point where not everybody wanted to give their all. There were issues of time and focus. If you have people in a place and some are giving 100% of their time and others are not, there would be issues. There wasn't a specific event that led to the break up, but one day when the same thing that had been happening all over again happened, it became a thorn that needed to be removed. We just called a meeting and called it quits. We were afraid of giving our fans less than what are known for. So we let it rest in 2002. ''

Lara contributed in no small measure to the success of KUSH's only album '' The Experience ''. She was great on tracks like ''Tic Tac Toe [ A song that I love dancing to ]'', ''My Friend'', and '' Angels ''. Another factor that made her outstanding was her sophistication and natural charm. To me, she's the prettiest of the three KUSH women. I'm also not surprised that she got married before TY Bello [ Emem has not found her soul-mate yet ]. Lets get down to real business and get to know Lara George more. She grew up in Yaba, Lagos, Nigeria, and attended the University of Lagos Staff School. She's an alumnus of Queen's College, Yaba, Lagos [ Queen's College is one of the top high schools in Nigeria. Lara graduated from the University of Lagos with B.Arch in Architecture. It was at the university that she met TY Bello, Dapo Torimiro and Emem Ema with their friendship culminating into KUSH.

So what has Lara been up to after KUSH broke up? She released her debut solo album ''Forever In My Heart'' in 2007 with the hit single being ''Ijoba Orun'' [ Heavenly Rule ]. This song made a lot of waves and it left many fans reminiscing about her days as a KUSH member. In August 2009, Lara came out with her 2nd album self-titled '' Lara George ''. The album has a remix of ''Ijoba Orun'' alongside other tracks like '' Halleluyah ', ''Kolebaje'' [ It won't get worse ] et al. The album is also due to be repackaged by SONY Music for the International Market. Lara's songs seem to be strictly gospel though she still retains KUSH's urban style and feel. She is also very focused and has big dreams. As the Vice President of SoForte Entertainment, she wants to build the biggest entertainment distribution company in Nigeria. Lara George is very popular in Nigeria and among Nigerians, Afro-Carribean people and African-Americans in Europe and North America. There's something she has not forgotten. Lara has not forgotten her tour of the UK and the USA with the other Ex-KUSH members and how the group recorded at Abbey Road Studios in London [ The Beatles recorded great songs there too ]. So will Lara reunite with Dapo, Emem and Toyin as KUSH if the opportunity arises? Well, only time will tell. What RV knows is that Lara is not happy about the break-up.

Lara's message to KUSH Fans: '' Keep your head up. Trust in God and never despise the days of small beginnings, because God always has a master plan that you may not understand''.

Where To Find Lara's music: www.mytruspot.com/larageorge ( Complete Albums )

Lara's Web Presence: www.myspace.com/larageorge

Sources: nigeriafilms.com, RV.

JUSTIN BIEBER SHINES ON BILLBOARD 200 ALBUM CHART.

2010-04-02T16:53:00.000-07:00

Canadian teen sensation, Justin Bieber, is holding the No 1 position on the Billboard 200 Album chart with his new release, ''My World 2.0''. The album has sold 283,000 copies in its first week in the market. 16 years old Bieber has become the youngest solo male artiste to become No 1 on the Billboard 200 chart, since August 1963 when 13- yr old Stevie Wonder was No 1 with ''Little Stevie Wonder and The 12 Year Old Genius'' album. Bieber's first album ''My World'' debuted at No 6 when it was released late last year by Island Records. Justin Bieber started out by posting his videos on YOUTUBE with the encouragement of his mother. Before then, he had thought himself to play the guitar, drums and the piano. The native of Stratford, Ontario, was soon spotted by Scooter Braun, who'd formerly worked for So So Def Records. Braun brought Justin to the United States and after convincing R&B singer, Usher Raymond, that he was really gifted, he was signed on. The rest as they say is history. RV believes Justin Bieber will become a great Canadian musician like Celine Dion, Bryan Adams and Shania Twain.

Sources: Wikipedia, billboard.com, RV.

THE KUSH CHRONICLES: TY BELLO'S SOLO RUN.

2010-04-02T08:36:00.000-07:00

TY Bello was the most vivacious of the three KUSH ladies [ Fans of the Group tend to forget that Dapo Torimiro is part of KUSH ]. Her hairstyle which was afro-like back then and her Alto voice made her unique. In the KUSH album, ''The Experience'', Toyin was the lead singer on most of the songs. She has this commanding presence whenever she's on the microphone. If you've listened to ''The Experience'', you'll agree with me that she was great as lead vocals on the the track ''Under His Shadows''. It is great to also acknowledge that TY Bello is doing well for herself as a solo artiste.

It took her 2 years to release her solo album ''Green Land''. The album has cemented her position as one of Nigeria's best female singers. Honestly, I've not seen an amazing singer like her besides Onyeka Onwenu. Green Land has a good number of lovely songs. Apart from the title track ''Green Land '', ''Come Ride With Me'' sounds like a song performed by Erykah Badu or Lauryn Hill. ''Funmise'' is another favourite track of mine. The song highlights the need for God's guidance in all what we do. Toyin believes we can't achieve much without God's help. ''Ekundayo'', a song which has a true life story behind it continues to inspire Nigerians to care about orphans in the country. '' Green Land '' has been well accepted by Gospel Music lovers. It was released on the North Avenue Music Label.

TY Bello holds a Degree in Economics from the University of Lagos, Nigeria. Apart from music, she is a celebrated portrait photographer and her photographs have been used in Nigeria's ThisDay Newspapers. RV also discovered it was Toyin that snapped the Photograph of Sunmi Smart Cole, which was used on the homepage of his website- www.sunmismartcole.com She has also been featured on 1cubed.com and was given an award by the Christian Music site. So what is TY's take on KUSH? According to Mrs Bello: '' We didn't really break up. KUSH was together for 8 years. For me and I think the rest of us, KUSH was fulfilling and it was an amazing training for all of us ''. Eclectic in her music style, RV has gathered that Toyin is working on a 2nd solo album though she has refused to make comments about the project. She also has a personal principle of not performing at shows and concerts. Toyin and Dapo Torimiro are the two KUSH members that have websites. TY Bello is very cultured in her approach to music and she's got this presence that brings peace upon her fans. RV hopes she will team up with Lara, Emem and Dapo for a sophomore album.

Toyin's Website: www.tybello.com

Where To Find TY Bello's Music Online: www.last.fm, www.mytruspot.com/tybello

Agency Material: nigeriafilms.com, naijarules.com

KUSH: A GROUP SO PROMISING, A GROUP THAT NEEDS TO REUNITE.

2010-03-31T03:54:00.001-07:00

RV is a blog with a difference. It is a blog that is totally dedicated to music and all things that pertains to music. That is why RV will be looking at a Nigerian Urban Gospel group known as KUSH [ Kinetically Ushering Salvation into Homes ]. The group was a quartet of three ladies and a guy- Toyin Sokefun Bello, Lara George, Emem Ema and Dapo Torimiro. Their debut album which was released by DKG Music in 2002 [ It sadly remains their only album ] was titled '' The Experience'' and it garnered critical reviews. Their style of music was a radical departure from what obtained on the Nigerian Gospel Music scene.

KUSH was a gospel group that was international in outlook, yet Nigerian enough not to be dismissed as an African-American initiative. The songs in '' The Experience '' which were well produced and arranged sounded heavenly. It was really an experience listening to the album. Tracks like '' Lets Live Together '' [ It is the song with the video above ] , '' Tic Tac Toe'', ''Angels'', '' Pretty Brown Eyes '', '' La La '' et al have become classics in the hearts of the group's fans. Then the group broke up for different reasons [ All the reasons given by the members will be examined in our articles in this series ] and have embarked on solo careers.

Fans of KUSH to a large extent are not happy about the break up. RV believes that the urban gospel group should have stuck together and would have made much impact over the years, than what they are achieving individually now. Some analysts believe KUSH has a high chance of winning a Grammy Award if they regroup for a sophomore album. That is why RV will be examining the effects of the group's break-up, the solo careers of the four members and if they are really living up to expectations individually. And can KUSH really win a Grammy Award in the Gospel Music category? It promises to be a solid series of music writing. Stay tuned.

RV is also striving to add more features to the blog daily. I keep looking for fresh page elements that will beautify the blog. RV and Blogspot are working hard to keep you entertained and informed musically. Cheers.

BTNH's FLESH-N-BONE ARRESTED ON ASSAULT CHARGES.

2010-03-30T16:08:00.000-07:00

Just when we were expecting Bone Thugs and Harmony to hit the world with their brand of Hip-Hop after a successful reunion, one of them has been arrested for a past offence. Flesh-n-Bone, whose real name is Stanley Howse, was arrested by law men in Cleveland, Ohio. He was picked up on a 12-year-old charge that he hit his mother with a gun in 1998, leaving her with a gash on the head. According to RV's sources, officers nicked Flesh-n-Bone as he tried to slip out of BTNH's Reunion show in Cleveland [ The Free Flowing group hail from Cleveland, Ohio ] .

Flesh, who is the older brother of Layzie Bone, was the first member of the group to release a solo album titled T.H.U.G.S in 1996. He was locked up in Pleasant Valley State Prison for 11 years on charges of assault with a dangerous weapon and violating probation. He was let out of jail last summer after serving ten years of his sentence. He became a Muslim while in jail. 36 year old Flesh-n-Bone will probably be reciting the lyrics of his touching song '' World So Cruel ''to himself at this moment. RV sincerely hopes that Flesh's current problems with the Police will not harm Bone Thugs and Harmony's renaissance. The group is set to release their newest album '' Uni5: The World's Enemy '' on April 27th.

Sources: rap basement.com, Associated Press, RV.

NNEKA EGBUNA STORMS LONDON!!!

2010-03-25T14:49:00.000-07:00

London will be playing host to the Nigerian-German Hip-Hop Soul sensation, Nneka Egbuna on the 28th of April 2010. Nneka, who grew up in Nigeria and later moved to Hamburg, Germany, at age 18 to develop her musical talent has been making a lot of waves in the music world. The daughter of a Nigerian father and a German mother, Nneka performs in English and her father's traditional Nigerian language of Igbo. After tasting the bitter part of life during her musical development, [ She was bruised by unsavoury characters ] Nneka has found a good sidekick in DJ Farhot, a producer living in Germany. Her first album, '' Victim of Truth ''was released in countries across Europe including Germany, France, The Netherlands and England. The album earned her critical reviews and her profile started to rise. Her second album '' No Longer At Ease '', which was released in 2008 was also successful. Nneka has toured extensively in France, Italy and Portugal and in some American states. Her single '' Heartbeat '' reached BBC Radio One's A-List. She also won a MOBO Award for Best African Act in 2009. She's an artiste that's going places.

Nneka will be performing at The Scala, 275 Pentonville Rd, Kings Cross, London, N1 9NL. The show starts at 19:30 with tickets @ £12.50 + booking fee in advance from ticketmaster.co.uk. Telephone for Booking: +(44)02078332022.

To know more about Nneka, go to www.nnekaworld.com

Sources: hiphoppress.com, RV, Wikipedia.

SOLA ALLYSON OBANIYI RELEASES NEW ALBUM...

2010-03-25T13:21:00.000-07:00

Sola Allyson Obaniyi is not done with us yet. She's just released a new album which is more contemporary with an international feel. The title of the album is '' Imo'ore '' [ Discovering Favour ] and it was launched at the Jogor Centre, opposite Liberty Stadium, Ibadan, Oyo State, Nigeria, recently. Shola's fans, friends, important personalities and music industry buffs attended the event. Her producer, Cobhams Asuquo [ Remember him? He's the blind genius who worked with Asa on her debut album ], Kunle Hamilton [ Entertainment Writer ] and Yinka Ayefele also graced the occasion.

On '' Imo'ore '', Sola is offering something different. Though the tracks are still performed in the Yoruba language, the instrumentation is international. It is an attempt by Sola and Cobhams Asuquo to engage and win over a new crop of fans in Nigeria and the western world. Sola Allyson Obaniyi's three other albums- Eji Owuro [ 2003 ], Gbeje Fori [ 2005 ], and Ire [ 2007 ] catered to people mostly in the South-Western parts of Nigeria. '' Ire '', her last album has some good songs like '' Aiye '', '' Imole Atan '', ''Ayanmo Ife '' and '' Eledumare ''. Sola's childhood and teenage years were tough for her because of issues she had with her family. She held on to her dreams because she knew she had a gift. Sola believes it is best to stay with ones calling regardless of whether it is popular or not. Today, her gift has made her a notable singer in Nigeria. Her albums have sold about 2 million copies. Her most popular song to date is '' Eji Owuro '' [ A love song about couples being faithful to each other ]. Sola Allyson Obaniyi rocks!!!

Source: www.tribune.com.ng, www.aderadio.com

RV NEWS DIGEST.

2010-03-20T16:00:00.000-07:00

LADY GAGA SUED BY EX-BOYFRIEND.

Is it a crime to be a star? This could be the question Stefani Germanotta has been asking herself for some days now. Miss Germanotta is the gregarious lady Gaga who has taken the music world by storm with her utterly different way of entertaining us. Her ex-boyfriend, [ These divas change lovers like tissue paper, don't they? ] Rob Fusari has filed a $30.5 Million [ £20 Million ] lawsuit against her. Fusari claims he played a huge role in shaping her career after spotting her during a performance in New Jersey. He's also saying that he influenced Interscope Record's contract with Lady Gaga.

Stating that he'd been denied a 20% cut on song royalties and shares of merchandising sales, Fusari insisted he had an affair with Lady Gaga in 2006 and that they launched a joint venture, Team Love Child, which was terminated when their relationship crashed. However, Rob Fusari admits that he has collected about $611,000 from Lady Gaga but he believes he deserves his full share of the singer's earnings. Lady Gaga's albums '' The Fame '' and '' The Fame Monster '' have sold about 10 million copies worldwide. Gaga, who wrote her first piano ballad at age 14 has concerts lined up for her in Australia, Japan, Sweden, Belgium and France this year [ Check www.ladygaga.com for ticket information and concert schedules ].

Sources: guardian.co.uk, ladygaga.com

QUEEN LATIFAH: STORY OF A SOUL SISTER.

2010-03-18T17:12:00.000-07:00

I'll be starting this piece with the words of Sister Latifah's fan. I came across this comment while doing some research about her on the web. It goes '' When Queen Latifah enters a scene on film, on stage, or in private, she takes centre stage. This woman has it all- talent, a good sense of humour, a warm laugh, a helping hand, a caring disposition, a good heart and a magic that radiates around her. I adore this woman and admire everything she does.''- Pavlos Kampanis.

Queen Latifah has fans all over the world. I started listening to her music in high school in western Nigeria during the early 90's. One of my friends, Lanre Okuwa, had a cassette full of American Hip-Hop music. Queen Latifah's song, '' Just Another Day'' was on the tape. I can remember that my friend mimed the song during one of our social nights in the boarding house then. Then I started watching MTV music videos and discovered more about the woman whose birth name is Dana Owens. The name ''Latifah'' [ It means '' Delicate '' and ''Sensitive '' in Arabic ] was given to her when she was 8 years old by a black cousin who was a Muslim. Her mother, Rita Owens, did two jobs as a single mother to take care of Latifah and her older brother, Lance Jnr.

After Latifah displayed a level of intelligence during her classes, her mother saved up and ensured she attended a specialist school, Saint Anne's Parochial, where her daughter played the role of Dorothy in the school's production of The Wiz. While in High School, she started rapping alongside two of her friends and they started a women's group called Ladies Fresh. Due to some encouragement from her mum, she started taking music seriously. In 1988, by getting executives at Tommy Boy Records excited with some tracks on her demo tape, she was able to release two singles ''Dance For Me '' and '' Wrath of My Madness ''. After touring Europe in 1989, her first album dropped. Titled '' All Hail The Queen '', the album went Platinum and the reign of the girl from Newark, New Jersey, started.

By the time she released her second album ''Nature of a Sister'' in 1991, Latifah had started acting on TV and in Movies. She featured in Spike Lee's '' Jungle Fever '' which was released in 1992. Contractual difficulties made her leave Tommy Boy Records and she soon set up shop with her own label, Flavour Unit Records. She mentored a number of rap and hip-hop groups including Naughty By Nature. She also appeared on the the Fresh Prince of Bell Air alongside Will Smith. Latifah elicited critical reviews when she played Cleo, a lesbian bank robber, in the film SET IT OFF. She was outstanding with her performance in the movie and made her character very believable. Dana Owens is a great achiever and she's a role model for many young women around the world. Material on her is exhaustive and her story is larger than this blog. In 1997, Queen Latifah was given the Aretha Franklin Award for Entertainer of The Year @ The Soul Train Lady of Soul Awards.

Latifah's Discography:

All Hail The Queen Tommy Boy Records [ 1989 ]
Nature of a Sister Tommy Boy Records [ 1991 ]
Black Reign Motown Records [ 1993 ]
The Dana Owens Album , [ 2004 ]

Latifah has had her bad times too just like the rest of us. She told ESSENCE Magazine that she was sexually abused by a teenage babysitter. In 1996, she was charged with possession of Marijuana and a loaded gun. These incidents notwithstanding, Queen Latifah remains a Rap Legend and also a great actor. RV belives she'll keep thrilling the world in the years ahead.

Sources: billboard.com, www.sing365.com, www.allanswers.com

HAPPY BIRTHDAY, QUEEN LATIFAH!!!

2010-03-18T00:24:00.001-07:00

RV felicitates with the Queen of Rap, Dana Elaine Owens, who is universally known by her moniker, Queen Latifah, as she clocks 40 today. Queen Latifah was born in Newark, New Jersey, USA, on the 18th of March 1970. Watch out for a creative piece on her later today. Enjoy the video above and see how deep Latifah can get with her words. Cheers.

AUDU MAIKORI'S PASSION FOR MUSIC.

2010-03-17T04:26:00.000-07:00

The Nigerian Music Industry is getting stronger daily. Local Record Labels are mushrooming, with different artistes and music videos being presented to the listening public and music lovers by the hour. Things were not like this back in the 80's and early 90's. In those days, Nigerian music was dominated by a small group of musicians including Fela Anikulapo Kuti, King Sunny Ade, Onyeka Onwenu [ The Elegant Stallion ], Edward Inyang [ Blackky ], Daddy Showkey, et al. The trend changed starting from the late 90's when groups like The Remedies and Rough, Rugged and Raw appeared on the music scene. One man that continues to play a vital role in showcasing Nigerian Music to the world in a positive light is Audu Maikori.

Born on August 13 1975 in Kaduna, Northern Nigera, Maikori attended Kings College in Lagos. After studying law at the University of Jos, Audu became a member of the Chartered Institute of Arbitrators, UK, The International Association of Entertainment lawyers and the Nigerian Bar Association [ NBA ]. In 2001, Audu started to make himself heard and seen on the Nigerian Arts scene. That year, he co-founded the Guild of Artists and Poets [G.A.P ] Nigeria. GAP is an NGO that promotes the Arts with branches in Abuja, Jos and Lagos. He also gave his plans for a Record Label some structure. Thus Chocolate City Entertainment Company was born. Under the dynamic tutelage of Maikori [He's the Company's CEO ], C.C.E has grown beyond all expectations. The Company helped to midwife the careers of successful artistes like Djinee, Asa, M.I, and Jeremiah Gyang.

Audu Maikori is not just into Showbiz for the money and fame alone. He's also helping to establish a regulatory framework for the Nigerian music industry. In 2007, Audu helped to organize the first Nigerian International Music Summit [ NIMS , which was aimed at establishing a legal regulatory framework for Nigerian music. Over 400 Music Industry stakeholders attended the event. Audu, who loves painting and writing poetry, is a partner in Law Allianz where he heads the Entertainment and Intellectual Property Department. He was recognized for his valiant efforts at repositioning Nigerian music in 2007, when he won the British Council's International Young Music Entrepreneur of The Year Award. Audu defeated 10 other finalists from various nations to clinch the award in a contest held in Britain. His star continues to shine. I wonder who will stop this young man from achieving his maximum potentials? In his mid 30's, he still has a lot to do for the world's music industry. RV wishes him the best as he moves on to international stardom.

RV NEWS DIGEST.

2010-03-14T13:22:00.000-07:00

CHARLY BOY DABBLES INTO PUBLISHING....

Nigeria's Punk King and Producer of the classic Charly Boy Show, Charles Oputa, has started publishing a colourful Magazine which is aptly titled CHARLYBOY. The first edition of the 112 page glossy publication appeared on the newsstands in December 2009. According to campusdailyonline.com, the magazine's debut edition sold out like hot cakes. The first issue had Charly Boy and Denrele Edun [ The dynamic but weird guy on SOUNDCITY ] on the front cover of the sold out issue. The second edition of the Magazine is also said to be loaded with great features and interviews and the star list includes Tunde and Wunmi Obe, Chief Emeka Anyaoku [ Former Secretary-General of the Commonwealth States ] and Prince Tony Momoh.

Source: www.campusdailyonline.com

FUGEES ''KILLING ME SOFTLY'' DIRECTOR GETS CHARGED FOR RAPE AND INCEST

The man behind The Fugees [ Lauryn Hill, Pras and Wyclef Jean ] hit song's video '' Killing Me Softly '' has been arrested for raping his daughters and fathering their kids. Aswad Ayinde, who is also known as Charles McGill, abused his daughters and got them to give birth to six children from the mid 80's to 2002. RV gathered that Mr Ayinde supervised the babies delivery with the mindset that he was creating a bloodline that will survive an impending apocalypse. One of his daughters has confirmed the story though she pleaded for anonymity. 51-year old Ayinde is facing 27 charges from sexual assault to child endangerment. He drew the attention of the American authorities in 2000 after the state temporarily took custody of his children, after the accused beat them with wooden boards and boots.

Source: AllHipHop.com Daily News.

TONY TONERO: HOW PAUL PLAY DAIRO'S EX-BANDMATE DIED.

2010-03-14T12:59:00.001-07:00

RV has just found out this piece of news, though belatedly. Tony Tonero, the dude with the deep voice on Paul I.K Dairo's hit song '' Mo Sorire '' is dead. Tony, who was a member of the 90's funk-soul group, OXYGEN, alongside Paul, Slam [ Remember him? This handsome guy just returned to Nigeria from the UK after living in the Queen's country for several years ] and Swave was hit by a car in the Mangoro area of Lagos, Nigeria, on the 24th of last month. According to reports, the circumstances sorrounding the accident and the singer's death are not clear yet.

While Slam and Paul Play went on to become successful in their music careers, Swave and Tonero struggled without success to make it in the music world. Tony Tonero however continued to perform as a back-up singer for his close friend, Paul I.K Dairo. OXYGEN was trying to regroup for a reunion album before Tony's death. You can see Tony Tonero's performance on the '' Mo Sorire '' song above. The song was a hit in Nigeria and among the African diaspora. Paul Play has gone on to become a household name in Nigeria with hit albums and songs that can compete for attention on the billboard charts.

RV commiserates with the friends and family of Tony Tonero. Rest In Peace, soul brother.

CHERYL COLE'S DANCE WITH PAIN AND IMPENDING FORTUNE.

2010-03-12T13:01:00.001-08:00

British Singer Set To Land £5 Million Fashion Contract......

Cheryl Cole's struggle to come to terms with her husband's infidelity and dishonourable behaviour has deepened, as she's pulled out of a good number of scheduled appearances. The singer who's from Newcastle upon Tyne, UK , was due to deliver a hot performance tonight with Jonathan Ross. However, a statement from her spokesman threw spanners into the outing. The statement disclosed that Cheryl is postponing promotional events this week because she has contracted bronchitis. The former Girls Aloud member and X Factor Judge announced last month that she was cutting ties with her husband and Chelsea FC star, Ashley Cole, after media reports that he was cheating on her.

In another development, Cheryl Cole is on track to sign a lucrative £5 Million Fashion Deal. RV gathered that the star is being wooed by numerous fashion houses with Italian Designer, Roberto Cavalli, offering her £1.3 Million to model his autumn winter selection. Two other fashion houses are reportedly offering her potential contracts worth £2 Million. Other Fashion deals could bring the total amount to £5 Million.

Fashion pundits believe Cheryl Cole has all it takes to succeed, including beauty and a great personality, which will be an asset to fashion brands. Cheryl was the first to be picked to join Girls Aloud and she mentored Joe McElderry to win Simon Cowell's X-Factor last year.

Sources: talktalk.co.uk, Well Contented Ltd, The Press Association, RV.

WHAT HAPPENED TO NONCHALANT?

2010-03-11T13:00:00.001-08:00

I will always love female rappers for two reasons. One, they're trying to make a name for themselves in a field that is dominated by dudes. Secondly, they have a unique way of sharing what goes on in their lives, society and neighbourhood in a passionate manner. I started listening to the music of Nonchalant in 1996, when my cousin in the United States [ He's born and bred in Obama's territory ] sent me her debut release in cassette format. The album was titled '' Until The Day ''. I listened to tape for a whole week and discovered that she's a real talent. The album had a jazzy feel with Nonchalant spitting words that reached out to the world at large.

Before listening to this sister's debut album, Queen Latifah and MC Lyte were my favourite female rappers. I loved Queen Latifah because of her boldness, Ghetto Appeal, and dress sense. On the other hand, MC Lyte appealed to me because of her looks, more romatic tunes and party grooves. Nonchalant came into my life courtesy of Deola and I suddenly had a new hero. She seemed to me, a combination of Laifah and Lyte. Non can be said to be a social crusader more than a party artiste. Most of the songs on '' Until The Day'' had messages of hope, faith, non-violence and aspiration.

Her most popular song to date is the thrilling track '' 5'O Clock ''. The song has a well produced video and it tries to warn young people all over the world about the dangers of drug dealing, hanging out with undesirable fellows, and living in crime. Another good track is '' Crap Rappers '' which speaks against unpolished and substandard rappers and their lyrics. Other tracks like '' Have A Good Time '' , ''Thank You'' and '' Light And Sirens '' [ A song that criticises the American Police positively ] are nice to listen to and learn from anyday, anytime.

However, where is this lovely sister today? I have not heard about her in years. I've come across some collaborations she did with other rappers on YOUTUBE, but she has not released a sophomore album. This D.C based sister is a blessing to the music world. Nonchalant was on WPGC 95.5 Radio in the D.C Area years ago as an on air personality. She was different from the female rappers that came after her. Remember them? I'm talking about the bling and flesh-flaunting generation of female rappers like Eve, Lil' Kim, Foxy Brown etc. Non said in an interview that she left MCA Records because the label did not offer her the opportunity to do what she wanted- Being able to innovate and compete with other artistes that were coming out back in those days of great rap albums.

Nonchalant remains a part of my life. I can't wait to get my hands on her second album, whenever she decides to release it and come out of her creative hood.

Sources: Youtube, RV.

DMX GOES BACK TO JAIL FOR SNIFFING COCAINE.

2010-03-11T09:57:00.000-08:00

American Rapper,DMX, has been arrested and is behind bars once more for breaking probation rules. DMX, whose real name is Earl Simmons, admitted to his parole officer that he had been using cocaine for about nine months until he was found out. The Probation rules spelt out that the rapper had to stay away from drugs during his drug treatment timetable. DMX is being kept at a Phoenix [ Arizona ]Jail away from other prisoners. He was arrested last year and got locked up on weapons, drugs and animal cruelty convictions. The irony of DMX's latest conviction is that he'd announced that he had changed his ways early last year. RV gathered he told FOX News that Jail had made him discover his true calling in life which was to become a Christian minister.

According to DMX, ''I came here to meet somebody. I don't know who it is, but I came to tell them that Jesus loves them. To tell them about the glory of God.'' DMX's best-selling album is his 1999 release '' And Then There Was X '', which had the hit single '' Party Up [Up In Here] '' . He's also an actor and has starred in Movies like Cradle To The Grave, Last Hour and Belly. If you want to listen to the best of DMX'S music, get the CD compilation titled 'THE BEST OF DMX. It was released by Def Jam early this year.

Sources: RV, Wikipedia, guardian.co.uk

RV NEWS: Asa In Alleged Paternity Scandal!!

2010-03-10T11:32:00.001-08:00

The muckrakers are at it again. RV has gathered that gifted soul singer, Bukola Elemide, popularly known as Asa [ It means '' Hawk'' in the West African language called Yoruba ] is in the midst of another alleged scandal. This time it has to do with who her real father is. Now, the official photographs of Asa's parents have not been released to the public and music lovers, since she burst onto the music scene with her self titled album '' Asa ''. However, there has been unconfirmed reports that Bukola Elemide's father is Mr Wale Akinboboye, the man who runs the lagos leisure outfit, La campaigne Tropicana.

It is said that Mr Akinboboye has refused to identify with Asa, and makes efforts to stop enquiries about who the artist's true father is. RV gathered that Asa was tutored at a stage in her career by Yinka Davies, who was a member of the Atunda Troupe, a theatrical business owned by Mr Akinboboye. There is a rumour that Mr Akinboboye told Davies to train Asa musically. RV is not sure if this rumour holds water because it is widely known that Bukola trained in Peter King's Music School in Badagry, Lagos, for a year.

Asa's Paternity issue is coming to light after she was accused of being a lesbian by a Lagos based Magazine late last year. News of The People published a story titled '' Lesbianism trails Asa and Manager ''. The publishers of the Magazine claimed that Asa and her Manager, Janet Nwose, were in a lesbian relationship. The story angered the duo and they sued the Magazine for defamation and libel at the Lagos High Court. The pair asked for a 700 Million Naira compensation and were bitter that the story portrayed Asa negatively to her fans. Asa was born in Paris, France, in 1982. She returned to Nigeria at age two and grew up in Jos, Plateau State. She returned to Lagos when she was 18 years old. Her music career kicked off a few years later.

Sources: Google, Modern Ghana Web.

WELCOME TO REDMAN'S VIBEWORLD.

2010-03-09T14:39:00.000-08:00

I've been writing since I was in Primary School. I just have this connection with the pen. My first attempt at creativity was through drawing. With the aid of the wax products of crayola, I would draw amateur comic strips and copy characters from DC comics and TV cartoons. The Nigerian Television Authority [ NTA ] and Lagos Weekend Television [ LWT ] tickled my imagination back in the 80's and early 90's. As soon as I enrolled in High School, I started losing my drawing skills and a new phenomenon started. My writing skills came to the fore and I've been strong in that area since then.

Today, I'm welcoming you to this blog. I want you to be friendly with this blog because I want to keep you informed 100% about what is happening in the music industry worldwide. I'll be blogging on all kinds of music with a strong emphasis on Soul, Jazz, Hip-Hop, British Grime, Hardcore Rap, Gospel Music, African music and House music. I will also keep you informed about the latest news in the Music world. This blog will be utilizing the resources of YOUTUBE, Google and other web portals to keep you informed, educated, inspired and entertained. You never know what will pop up on this blog and the artistes, producers and people you may get to meet through vibes-extra @ Blogspot.Com

I promise you solid information, videos and features anytime you visit my Vibeworld. If you're a music lover, artiste or you own a record label, you need to watch this space. The young man behind this blog is deeply talented and wants to make you have a memorable time as you read reviews, articles and listen to music. Lets make this blog a success together. Once more, I'm saying welcome. A dynamic blog is born!!