ALL YOU NEED TO KNOW ABOUT HHWA 09

Known for daring to achieve the seemingly impossible, Hip hop World Awards has over the years set new standards and has been able to carve a niche in an industry where mediocrity reigned supreme.

And fortunately, it often happens that the ambitious but painstakingly executed experiments we have embarked upon usually work out. This is why fourteen years after the magazine first hit news shelves, there has been a number of remarkable events and achievements that highlight the power of possibilities. It is no wonder the awards has not only been considered as the most organized awards, but as the most credible music awards in Nigeria.


VENUE

This year’s edition of the Hip hop world awards will hold at the International Conference center Abuja. This is the first time the awards is leaving its base in Lagos State.

‘It is a dream come true for us to be taking the awards outside Lagos. It is obvious that the event, though a totally homegrown initiative, is already an international brand and every aspect of the process this year will reflect not just the stature of HHWA, but also the stature of the Nigerian music industry’ Ayo Animashaun says


HOSTS

This year’s hosts Kemi Adetiba and Banky W were formally introduced to Journalists at a world press conference on February 10 2009.

An unrepentant hip hop head and music connoisseur, Kemi Adetiba is herself an established on air Personality who first savored the media industry as a little girl while accompanying her father, Dele Adetiba, to radio and television stations. And now, more than a decade after, her CV possesses a swell of radio and TV jobs and invaluable skills and experience which continue to push her up the ladder. She’s been an on-air personality on Silver bird’s Rhythm 93.7, guest analyst on Cool FM 96.9, and co-presenter on M-NET's Studio 53.

Accompanying Adetiba to guide guests through the night’s activities is talented song-writer, singer and ladies’ man Olubankole Wellington, popularly called Banky W. Blessed with an incomparably smooth voice, near-excellent writing and production skills, Banky stormed the Nigerian music scene towards the end of 2007 with a remake of Rihanna’s Umbrella, and immediately caught the attention of an industry in search of fresh ideas and faces. He soon wormed his way into the hearts of critics, sceptics, the media and fans; eventually building for himself, a career that has continued to thrive.
‘It is good to see that there are people who accept and appreciate what you do, and I can boldly say that Hip hop World is one of them. The journey has not been so smooth, but what can I say, I just thank God for this unique opportunity, and I am very positive that I won’t take for granted the opportunity that has been vested on me’ Banky W says

Past hosts of the awards include Darey Art Alade (2006), Dbanj and Tana (2007), Dakore Egbuson and Basket mouth (2008)


SPONSORS

As usual, Hip Hop World Awards will again be sponsored by Nigeria’s foremost telecommunications company- MTN Nigeria. Others include Lipton and Dana Motors.

HEADIE PLAQUE

The Headie plaque represents the image and the yell of a young, vibrant man whose talent can challenge that of Nas, Modenine, Kanye West, Sound Sultan and Jay Z combined but who has almost lost confidence in his abilities in the face of daunting odds presented by the Nigerian environment.

A total of twenty plaques (called headie) made up of 21 carat gold will be given out to deserving music industry professionals whose works have been screened by a team of select critics and practitioners commissioned by the organizers

The Headie plaque is designed by ACE Awards in England, an international awards, plaques and trophies manufacturing company. Over the years they have manufactured the plaques of many notable awards such as the Grammys


THEME

This year’s awards has been tagged ‘a prize to die for’

‘‘We want artistes to see the awards as a prize to die for’’, says Animashaun. ‘‘Being nominated or winning is a big deal in itself. And those who go home with the award will tell you it’s made of pure 21 carat gold. When we say we want to reward talents, we want people to know that we mean it. So when you have a heady on your award shelf, you’ll see that it’s different from all other ones you’ve had. So you want to work harder and even win more next year. That’s what we want. And that’s why it’s going to be a prize you want to give anything to have; a prize to die for. The cars, money, equipments and others are just icing on the cake’’.

PERFORMERS

In all, 13 artistes have will be performing at this year’s hip hop world awards.

Top on the list are amazing rave of the moment Abolore Akande popularly known as 9ice, Lyricist and rapper MI, new kid on the block Kel, and rising female singer Omawumi.

Others are Lord of Ajasa, Nikky Laoye, Zeez, Darey Art Alade, Banky W, 2face Idibia and rested loose coalition- ‘Da trybe’ comprising of Eldee, Del, KB, Sasha, Dr. Sid, 2shotz, Freestyle and Blaise.

Banky W who first hit lime light in 2007 with ‘Ebutte Metta’ will thrill fans with songs off his debut album ‘Mr. Capable’, and select singles off his upcoming second LP

9ice will perform his hit song- ‘Gongo Aso’, and there is no doubt he will excite fans the way he did last year.

Darey Art Alade will make his first major performance of the hit single ‘Not the girl’

‘This year’s awards is going to be exceptional, there will be so much excitement people should look forward to more exciting performances this year, I am so sure the crowd will find it exciting seeing Da Trybe on stage again, they have not performed together for a long time, every one has been busy doing their own thing, where else will they be reuniting if not on our stage?’ Efe Omorogbe, head of talent at HHWA says.


PRESENTERS

To present the headie to those who will be named winners at this year’s award’s ceremony are renowned individuals who are grounded in what they do. They will cut across different industries, be it comedy, music, TV, Nollywood law, media all the way to Fashion.

Top on the list is Ali Baba, inspiration FM’s Wale Ewedemi, Festus Keyamo, Steve Babaeko, Tonye Ibiama, Tyeng Gyang, Fela Durotoye and Kenny St Brown. Others are Ego Ihenaecho, Howie T, ID Cabasa and many more.


THEME SONG AND VIDEO

This year’s theme song was composed by three talented and wave making artistes- Kel, MI and Banky W and was produced by Eldee the Don.

Two months after the song was recorded, the video was shot at the Teslim Balogun stadium on Thursday April 23, 2009, and a lot of celebrities were present, Kemi Adetiba was the director, and she was assisted by Wudi and former MTV Base’s Femi Olagbaiye.

The video depicts the theme of this years awards ‘a prize to die for’ as there was a boxing ring where two boxers were fighting to the death for a prize. Banky W and Eldee the Don served as Managers who had placed their money on their individual boxers while MI and Kel encouraged the boxers not to give up.


CLOTHIERS

A number of clothiers will be working with the award’s team this year. Top on the list is Ituen, Mai, Basi and Jewel by Lisa who will be designing what Kemi Adetiba, the co host for this year’s awards will be putting on throughout the night.

For Banky W, everything he’d be wearing will be designed by Clothesense, a clothing line run by Muiyiwa Oshindero. The reporters for Hip on TV will be dressed by Frank Oshodi, Mutay and Mai.


THE NOMINEES’ PARTY.

This year, the organizers have promised every one present at the nominees party ‘food unusual, drinks unusual and party unusual’ as the nominees’ party will this year be hosted by Ajibogun village, a village located around Sango Otta area of Ogun state.

Over the years, the nominees’ party has always been an avenue for artistes, media practitioners and industry entrepreneurs to relate, have a nice time and get into the spirit of the awards. ‘There is no doubt that there will be food unusual, drinks unusual, fun unusual and party unusual’ Abisoye Fagade, the nominees’ party project manager says ‘everyone should come dressed in their native attire and when we say native attire, we don’t mean modern traditional outfit. We are talking about Kembe, Abeti Aja and the rest of them’ Fagade is quick to add.

Scheduled for May 8, 2009, the team is doing all they can to make the village conducive for every one who is attending ‘we are making plans for the whole village to be fumigated, and we are building tents where everyone will seat, communicate and have a nice time’ Animashaun says. ‘Everyone is assured of safety, and there will be no need for anyone to drive that far as plans have been made for vehicles that will convey everyone to the venue’ he concludes.

Already, voting has commenced for the select artistes that have been nominated for this year’s awards, and fans are having a fill day voting their favorite nominees at www.hiphopworldawards.com and through SMS






THE NOMINEES

HHWA1 ALBUM OF THE YEAR
Best album (solo or group) in year under review that meets judges’ requirements of excellence (in every realm: songwriting, production, rendition, promotion and acceptability (sales, popularity)

THE ENTERTAINER
Artiste - D’Banj
Producer(s) - Don Jazzy
Record Label - Mo Hits Records

GONGO ASO
Artiste - 9ice
Producer - ID Cabasa, Puffy T, DJ Zeez
Record Label - Alapomeji Records

PARADIGM SHIFT
Artiste - Mode 9
Producer(s) - Kraftwork, Jonah D Monarch, Wazbeat, Light house, Jesse Jagz
Record Label - Red Eye Music

TALK ABOUT IT
Artiste - M I
Producer(s) – Jesse Jagz, M.I, Kraftwork
Record Label – Chocolate City

UNSTOPPABLE
Artiste – 2Face
Producers – J Sleek, Mic Tunes, Chakademus & Pliers, R Kelly, Sharks, Ozzy, Wayne Mc, Jiggy Jegg, B. Howard
Record Label – Hypertek Records

HHWA2 ARTISTE OF THE YEAR
Most critically and commercially adjudged artiste in the year under review Overall most successful artiste for the year under review.

D’BANJ
OLADAPO DANIEL OYEBANJO JUNIOR

PSQUARE
PETER AND PAUL OKOYE

TIMAYA
INETIMI ALFRED ODOM

9ICE
ABOLORE AKANDE

HHWA3 SONG OF THE YEAR
Most popular song from an album in year under review. Decided by voting

“FALL IN LOVE”
Album – THE ENTERTAINER
Artiste- D’banj
Producer - Don Jazzy
Record Label - Mo Hits

“INCASE U NEVER KNOW”
Album - MUSIC BUSINESS
Artiste – 2Shot ft. Timaya
Producer – Terry G
Record Label – Umunamu Records

“GONGO ASO”
Album- GONGO ASO
Artiste - 9ice
Producer - ID Cabasa
Record Label - Alapomeji Records

“GOOD OR BAD”
Album - GET SERIOUS
Artiste - J Martins ft. Timaya and P-Square
Producer - J Martins
Record Label - Don Family Records

HHWA4 RECORDING OF THE YEAR
Best single recording (on-air only or released) by artiste or group in year under review. Originality and production very essential

“STREET CREDIBILITY”
Album - GONGO ASO
Artiste - 9ICE FT. 2Face
Producer – Id Cabasa
Record Label - Alapomeji Records

“NOT THE GIRL”
Album – UNDAREYTED
Artiste - Dare Art Alade
Producer - Cobhams
Record Label – Soul Muzik
“MICHELLE”
Album – ETCETERA
Artiste – Etcetera
Producer – Etcetera and Jo’kaynie
Record Label – X3M

“CAN’T DO WITHOUT YOU”
Album – UNSTOPPABLE
Artiste – Tuface Ft. Melissa Briggs
Producer – Mic Tunes
Record Label - Hypertek Music

HHWA5 PRODUCER OF THE YEAR
The individual responsible for producing the most acclaimed album in the year under review. His CV for the year includes top notch tracks and production credits no one can fault.

TEE-Y MIX
Album Title – YOU KNOW MY P
Artiste - Naeto C
Song Title – “KI NI BIG DEAL”

DON JAZZY
Album Title- THE ENTERTAINER
Artiste – D’Banj
Song Title – “FALL IN LOVE”

ID CABASA
Album Title – GONGO ASO
Artiste - 9ice
Song Title – “GONGO ASO”

TERRY G
Album – MUSIC BIZNESS
Artiste - 2 Shotz
Song Title – “IN CASE YOU NEVER KNOW”

JESSE JAGZ
Album – TALK ABOUT IT
Artiste – M.I
Song title – “SHORT BALCK BOY”

HHWA6 BEST MUSIC VIDEO (AWARD GOES TO DIRECTOR)
Best conceptualised, best edited, best picture, best directed and most exciting video in year under review as voted by fans and decided by the jury.

ALFONSO DORMUN
Album Title – BIG BOY
Artiste - eLDee
Video Song Title – “BO SI GBAN GBA”

JUDE OKOYE
Album Title - GAME OVER
Artiste - P Square
Video Song Title – “ROLL IT”

DJ TEE
Album Title - CV
Artiste – Mo Hits All Stars
Video song Title – “PERE”

IGHO
Album Title – GET AWAY
Artiste - Igho
Video song Title – “NAIJA BOY”

HHWA7 BEST REGGAE/DANCEHALL ALBUM
Best reggae or dancehall album in year under review

GIFT AND GRACE
Artiste - Timaya
Producer(s) - K Solo, Akeem D’Beat, Jeggs, Spankie, Terry G,
Record Label – Dem Mama

ME MUSIQ AND I
Artiste – Blackface
Producers – George Nathaniel, Blackface Naija, Terry G, Pro-Kessy, Henry Hope,
Record Label – Loud Houz Entertainment

ICHIBAN
Artiste - Chakka Da’ Souljah
Producer(s) - Del B
Record Label - Premier Music

MY SHINE
Artiste – Black Solo
Producer(s) - Jah Mix, Zeeno Foster, DMM
Record Label - Kiss Music




HHWA8 BEST R ‘N’ B/ POP ALBUM
Best R&B or pop album in year under review (by single individual or group)

THE ENTERTAINER
Artiste- D’Banj
Producer(s) - Don Jazzy
Record Label- Mo Hits

UNSTOPPABLE
Artiste – 2Face
Producer(s) – J Sleek, Mic Tunes, Chakademus & Pliers, R Kelly, Sharks, Ozzy, Wayne Mc, Jiggy Jegg, B. Howard
Record Label – Hypertek Records

ETCETERA
Artiste – Etcetera
Producer(s) – Etcetera, Jo’ Kenny, Mr Daz, Chris Yakub
Record Label – X3M

GONGO ASO
Artiste- 9ice
Producer(s) - ID Cabasa, Puffy T
Record Label- Alapomeji Records

MR CAPABLE
Artiste - Banky W
Producer(s) - ID Cabasa, Music Men
Record Label - Empire Mates Entertainment

HHWA9 BEST RAP ALBUM
Best album by a rap artiste or group in year under review

TALK ABOUT IT
Artiste- M I
Producer(s) - M I, Jesse Jagz, Kraftworks
Record Label- Chocolate City

PARADIGM SHIFT
Artiste - Mode 9
Producer(s) - Kraftwork, Jonah D Monarch, Wazbeat, Light house, Jesse Jagz
Record Label- Red Eye Entertainment

SECOND TURNING BY THE RIGHT
Artiste - Lord Of Ajasa
Producer(s) - ID Cabasa,
Record Label – Oti Po Ju
YOU KNOW MY P
Artiste - Naeto C
Producer(s) - Tee-Y Mix
Record Label - Storm Records

HHWA10 BEST COLLABO
Best R&B, Pop or hip hop collaborative track (including cameos) in year under review

“STREET CREDIBILITY”
Artistes – 9ice FT 2Face
Producer – ID Cabasa
Record label- Alapomeji Records

“LE FENU SO”
Artistes - Lord Of Ajasa FT 9ice
Producer – ID Cabasa
Record Label- O Ti Po Ju

“GOOD OR BAD
Artistes - J Martins FT Timaya AND P-Square
Producer – J Martins
Record Label- Don Family Records

“E FI MI LE”
Artistes - YQ FT Da Grin
Producer – Dr. Frabz
Record Label- 2 Koncept Entertainment

“BUSH MEAT”
Artistes - Sound Sultan FT 2Face & W4
Producer – J Sleek
Record Label- Naija Ninja

HHWA11 BEST RAP SINGLE
Best single released on-air recording of a rap song

“SAFE”
Artiste(s) – M I ft Djinee
Producer – M.I
Record Label- Chocolate City

“TALKING TO YOU”
Artiste(s) – Mode 9 ft Banky W
Producer – Banky W
Record label- Red Eye Music

“WA WA ALRIGHT”
Artiste(s) – Kel
Producer – Suspect
Record Label- Capital Hills Records

“KINI BIG DEAL”
Artiste(s) – Naeto C
Producer – Tee-Y Mix
Record Label- Storm Records

HHWA12 BEST VOCAL PERFORMANCE (MALE)
Single male artiste with most outstanding vocal performance on a single song or album

DARE ART ALADE
Album Title - UNDAREYTED
Record Label – Soul Muzik
Producer - Cobhams
Song Title - “NOT THE GIRL”

BANKY W
Album Title - MR CAPABLE
Record Label - Empire Mates Entertainment
Producer- Muzik Men
Song Title - “DON’T BREAK MY HEART”

ETCETERA
Album Title - ETCETERA
Producer- Etcetera and Jo’Kaynie
Record label – X3M
Song Title- “MICHELLE”

WANDE COAL
Album Title - FROM M TO M
Producer- Don Jazzy
Record Label – Mo Hits
Song Title- “TABOO”

HHWA13 BEST VOCAL PERFORMANCE (FEMALE)
Single female act with most outstanding vocal performance on a single song or album

OMAWUMI
Album Title - WONDER WOMAN
Producer - Cobhams
Record Label – Wonder Woman
Song Title - “IN THE MUSIC”

NIKKI LAOYE
Album Title - ANGEL 4 LIFE
Producer - Cobhams
Record Label – Wahala Media Entertainment
Song Title - “NEVER FELT THIS WAY BEFORE”

WAJE
Album Title- BREATHLESS (Unreleased)
Producer - J Martins
Record Label – Dome Records
Song Title- “SOMEWHERE”

HHWA14 NEXT RATED
Most promising upcoming officially unreleased act in the year under review

YQ
Track Title – “E FI MI LE”
Record Label – 2Koncept Entertainment

MP
Track Title – “PASA PASA”
Record Label – Lime Lite Records

KEL
Track Title – “WA WA ALRIGHT”
Record Label - Capital Hills Records

D’JINEE
Track Title – “LADE”
Record Label – Polar Media
OMAWUMI
Track Title – “IN THE MUSIC”
Record Label – Wonder Woman

HHWA15 HIP HOP WORLD REVELATION
Best new artiste in the year under review

M I
Album - TALK ABOUT IT
Full Name – JUDE ABAGA
Record Label – Chocolate City

BANKY W
Album- MR CAPABLE
Full Name – BANKOLE WELLINGTON
Record Label – Empire Mates Entertainment

NAETO C
Album- YOU KNOW MY P
Full Name – NAETOCHUKWU CHIKWE
Record Label – Storm Records

NIKKI LAOYE
Album- ANGEL FOR LIFE
Full Name – NIKKI LAOYE
Record Label – Wahala Media Entertainment

HHWA16 AFRICAN ARTISTE OF THE YEAR (NON NIGERIAN CATEGORY)
Special award for an individual African artiste with the most outstanding album and astonishing achievements in year under review

BUFFALO
“BUBBLE YOUR BUMZ”

TINNY
“I DEY KOLO”

DOGG
“CAN YOU FEEL IT”

WITNESS
“ZERO”

HHWA17 LYRICIST ON THE ROLL
Rap Artiste with best lyrical depth and performance on a single song or album

MODE 9
Album Title- PARADIGM SHIFT
Record Label- Red Eye Music
Song Title - NINE

M I
Album Title - TALK ABOUT IT
Record Label - Chocolate City
Song Title – TALK ABOUT IT

LORD OF AJASA
Album Title - SECOND TURNING BY THE RIGHT
Record Label - O Ti Po Ju
Song Title – ESA LO BA DE


DAGRIN
Album Title – CEO (Unreleased)
Record Label - Satty Record and Mi So Fun Yin
Song Title - PON PON PON

HHWA18 BEST STREET HOP
The most popular street-hop single in year under review

“E SA LO BA DE”
Artiste- Lord Of Ajasa

“PON PON PON”
Artiste- Da Grin

“04 KA SI BE”
Artiste- DJ Zeez

“E FI MI LE”
Artiste-YQ

“COLLABO”
Artiste- DeeBee

HHWA19 HIPHOP WORLD HALL OF FAME
Non competitive category

GRAND MASTER LEE
PHILLIP TRIMNELL

HHWA GULPS HUNDREDS OF MILLIONS

All is now set for the 4th edition of the Hip Hop World Awards.

There are indications that the awards team headed by Ayo Animashaun is leaving no stones unturned in making the awards ceremony a success; ready to do all it takes to beat the standards of last year’s event.

A reliable source disclosed that ‘More than a hundred million naira has been pumped into the mastery of the awards, the organizers are planning to fly the nominees, the presenters, performers as well as showbiz journalists, and they will see to it that they are lodged in one of the best hotels in the FCT’

Also investigations have it that International Conference Center; Abuja- the venue for this year’s awards cost the organizers over 7 million Naira.

Recall that the Hip Hop World Awards team was also responsible for Banky W and Kemi Adetiba’s tour of Brazil and Dubai in February 2009.‘We always look out for individuals who believe so much in themselves and who have all it takes to represent Nigeria anywhere in the world. That’s what we saw in our past hosts, and that is what we see in Kemi Adetiba and Banky W, and we’d do anything to see to it that they get everything they need to do what is expected of them’ Ayo had told news men at a press conference where he introduced Kemi Adetiba and Banky W as hosts of this year’s awards on February 10, 2009.

The honours event, which became the first music awards in Nigeria to give out prizes to winners in 2006 (with cash prizes attached to the next rated category), is also dangling a brand new KIA optima 2008 edition at the winner of this year’s Next rated category. Last year, Mo Hits act Wande Coal went home with a Brand new Hyundai Sonata Sedan for emerging winner of the Next rated category.

The yellow carpet which is usually a display of poise and razzmatazz reportedly cost the organizers nearly a dozen millions in 2008. But going by the size of the International Conference Centre, there are indications that it might cost far more than that this year. ‘The budget set aside for the yellow carpet is huge, so huge you won’t believe it’ our source squealed

When probed further, one of the organizers who craved anonymity discloses ‘The video for the award’s theme song was shot at the Teslim Balogun stadium on Thursday April 23, 2009, and a lot of celebrities were present, Kemi Adetiba was the director, and she was assisted by Wudi and former MTV Base’s Femi Olagbaiye, so you can imagine how much that has been spent’.


Viewers should expect the video on air anytime soon. The video depicts the theme of this years awards ‘a prize to die for’ as there was a boxing ring where two boxers fight to the death for a prize. Banky W and Eldee the Don served as Managers who had placed their money on their individual boxers while MI and Kel encouraged the boxers not to give up.

The song which featured MI, Banky W and Kel was produced by ELdee the Don

When contacted, Ayeni Adekunle, the Media director for the award says ‘Of course HHWA is a big- budget event, and there is no doubt that a lot of resources will be pumped into making it a success, but we can’t disclose any figures. ‘All I can say is that the major sponsors this year are MTN and Lipton tea’ he added.

Inside sources however maintain that this year’s awards will gulp over a hundred million naira, an amount far more than last year’s budget. The organizers are flying and accommodating presenters, performers, the hosts, some select journalists and all nominees. There are speculations that in all, they will be flying and accommodating about 500 people.

Also to be expected are ‘yet to be disclosed guest’ international artistes.

Already tagged ‘a prize to die for’, this year’s awards plaque popularly called Headie is made of pure 21 carat gold, and 19 of the prestigious award will be given out to winners of the various categories. The Headie plaque is designed by ACE Awards in England, an international awards, plaques and trophies manufacturing company based in the UK.

The fourth edition of Hip hop world awards will hold in Abuja, Nigeria at the International Conference Center on May 16, 2009

WHAT WE ARE WEARING TO HIP HOP WORLD AWARDS

The much talked about fourth edition of the annual hip hop world awards is just around the corner, and as it gets closer, the competition is getting stiffer as artistes, industry practitioners and record label owners gear up to storm Abuja with a bang.

The awards for urbane music and hip hop culture is known for its brilliant shot at creating a perfect picture of what a proper red carpet event should look like. Year in year out, celebrities attend the function that has been declared ‘Nigeria’s most organized awards ceremony’ dressed to kill.

‘I would definitely be at my best at this year’s edition of Hip Hop World awards, I saw a presentation the guys at Hip on TV did last year, and any body in his or her right senses will not want to be inappropriately dressed, so this year’s arrow does not hit him or her’ 9ice who is up for six nomination says ‘I would be putting on a suit designed by Macho for the yellow carpet, and another outfit to perform, but you should be rest assured that I will be looking my best on that day’ he concludes

Ruggedman who attended the awards last year dressed in his own label- 20th September wear will also be doing the same this year ‘I’d definitely be wearing 20th September to the event’ he says.

Like Ruggedman, Sasha will be dressing herself to the awards ‘well, eclectic by Sasha will be making my dress, that is who has been responsible for everything I have been wearing to the awards since its inception, and I will be putting on something bright, so it can stand me out and blend with the yellow carpet’ she disclosed.

The event which has been penciled for the International Conference Centre, Abuja on Saturday, May 16, 2009 is usually preceded by a glamorous yellow carpet ceremony, where celebrities will get to show case the designers behind their outfits amongst many other things. ‘My costume for this year’s awards will be designed by Clothesense, I wont step on that yellow carpet not looking good, you can take my word on that’ Banky W, host for this year’s awards discloses.

Known for his good dress sense, prolific producer ID Cabasa says ‘I can’t tell what color I’d be putting on right now, but I’ll unquestionably be putting on a suit, although I have not made up my mind on who is making it. I have an option between Steel’s Needles and Stitches or Macho Martinez’ he says.

Years after a lot of people embraced the red carpet and made it a tradition at events and awards ceremonies, celebrities and invited guests were shocked when they arrived at the Muson Centre to a yellow carpet in 2007. And in 2008, the organizers were on point as they not only covered the whole of Planet one events centre, Maryland with an elaborate spread of the yellow carpet, but the carpet was also branded with the logo of the title sponsor- MTN.

‘I really don’t have a lot of options right here, but I hope to be putting on an outfit made by Steel’ Eldee the Don discloses.

Member of defunct group JJC and 419, MP says ‘I would be putting on a three piece suit by Ozwald Boateng or I might just decide to dress down by putting on a v neck cardigan by Cavali with a fitted shirt inside. To go with that I will have on a black or grey pairs pants, prada shoes and my signature Dolce and Gabanna shades to complete the ‘osamo’ look’

Omawumi on the other hand reveals ‘I will be putting on a Nigerian print that is predominantly orange on the yellow carpet and for the awards, but for my performance, I’d be putting on a white and black African print and its going to be designed by my own tailor’

‘For me, it will be nothing other than Naija Ninja, although I haven’t made up my mind on what I’ll be wearing exactly’ Lyricist Sound Sultan says

When D banj performed at the maiden edition of the awards, he had a towel on and a brigade band in tow. He surprised all and shocked many. Remember 9ice with his native attire on stage last year? ‘Well, all I can say is that as the awards grows, the surprises especially when it comes to dressing gets more and more unpredictable’ Ayo Animashaun, the award’s executive producer says

EYO FESTIVAL LIVE IN LAGOS!

I love calling Lagos the Federal capital of enjoyment because it is the city where things happen!You know here in Lagos, there is nothing like spring or summer..in fact our weather has no name. The major problem we have is electricity power supply but the other ones like Road,refuse etc is being tackled by the able leadership of Governor Babatunde Raji Fashola.At least, there is a bit of orderliness in town.The guy is not distracted by oppositions at all. He is focused and we are seeing the dividends of democracy in Lagos.
Last weekend was the colourful display of Eyo in Lagos and i must confessed that i have been attending the festival as a child but none has been so exciting like this one in honour of late legal luminary, Otunba TOS Benson.
Photos: Check me out at the new Tinubu Square,Lagos.
Photo 2 show K1 the Ultimate durning his performance at the festival.

SEX SYMBOL,D'BANJ SETS FOR KOKOMASION...NOLLYWOOD ENDORSES REALITY SHOW

AS the heat of the oncoming reality show tagged Koko Mansion begins to burn, the nation’s film industry otherwise known as Nollywood is the first body to endorse the show being packaged by HiTV, Nigeria and Africa’s fastest growing satellite company.
The Actors Guild of Nigeria through its president, popular actor Ejike Asiegbu, has described Koko Mansion as the biggest thing that will happen in the entertainment horizon this year. The show is expected to begin in June.
Asiegbu in a statement on Thursday described Koko Mansion as a reality show “with good intentions and the fact that a wholly Nigerian company, HiTV, is bringing the show to Nigerians is more heart warming news. Koko Mansion’s objectives are genuine and realistic, many young, eligible Nigerian men are finding the task of getting a good wife Herculean, but with Koko Mansion, most people may find what exactly they are looking for in most women. It is not a hundred per cent chance, but it is the beginning of a solution to a problem and I must commend HiTV and all involved for this initiative.”
The Actors Guild of Nigeria president assures of the body’s support. “Any initiative that will impact on the society, you know that AGN is always in support, so as regards Koko Mansion, I want to assure the organisers that AGN is fully in support of Koko Mansion and if there is anyway AGN could partner with HiTV to further make it a huge success, you can be rest assured that we are here.”
Koko Mansion revolves around the quest of 12 beautiful, talented girls that will live in a mansion for eight weeks, to become the ideal Kokolette (wife). The Mansion is situated in an undisclosed area in Lagos. Hip hop superstar D’banj will play a vital role in the oncoming show.
In these weeks, the young women will be groomed and tested in various activities in order to determine the one with the greatest Koko Virtues, worthy of being a wife –a Kokolette.
Some of these Koko Virtues that the viewer that would be the ultimate judge in the intrigue-filled show would be looking out for are: the ability of the Kokolette to cook scrumptious meals for D’banj and his friends, especially during impromptu visits; her ability to furnish and maintain the mansion. The Kokolette must also be industrious while being able to take care of the home front; her ability to be respectful and courteous at all times would be put to test. The potential Kokolette must be able to emulate notable women in society such as Honourable Abike Dabiri, Nike Osinowo among others even as she shows the ability to impress D’banj, under all circumstances in order to win the public’s votes to be in the house among others.
D’banj would among other things, help the public determine who the winner should be, based on their ability to please him. He is currently one of the most eligible single young men in Nigeria and it is believed that the music star will be able to adequately represent most men in the limelight who people assume would not appreciate a complete woman. So, with the help of his friends and associates, the public will know the most tolerant, hospitable and respectful woman in the mansion. D’banj’s entertaining character may also act as a catalyst that will bring out the girls’ true personalities.
The winner of the show will be emerge the most sought Kokolette and will have full access to D’banj during her tenure.
The Kokolette must be a beautiful young lady, at least 18 years old; she must be smart and intellectually savvy; she must also possess a fun talent she is willing to explore and definitely a WIFE material. She must be well-cultured with sound domestic training, an absolute diva with the ability to get along with a diverse crowd. The Kokolette must be someone with good moral values, independent and ambitious aside being a creative person.
The Kokolette must also be an excellent host, a very creative person who understands and can get along with the celebrity lifestyle of the hip hop star. Most importantly, she is D’Banj’s number one fan. A video audition would help the panel determine the 12 finalists.
There will be no evictions in the first week because the ladies would have to socialise and familiarise themselves with living in a mansion. However, eviction starts in the second week, where two ladies with the least number of votes from the viewers will be ushered out. Weekly evictions begin from the second week till we have our final three ladies. Eviction is primarily done by the public and could be based on D’banj’s comments. Every week, there will be a talent show segment where each lady must showcase her talent to the viewers. Talent is an important criterion to be part of the show because it would serve as the platform for each Kokolette to become a celebrity in their own right after the show. However, each week, among the three ladies up for eviction, it would be D’Banj’s prerogative to give Koko Mycine (immunity) to one of the girls. He can only use Koko Mycine once in the duration of the show. “The winner will among other benefits,
be crowned Kokolette 1, get a Chris Aires Diamond ring, a brand new convertible car, feature in his next music video You Don Make Me Fall In Love alongside N5 million in cash. Aside that, the winner will be D’Banj’s companion at public events both within and outside Nigeria. She would further emerge as HiTV’s Hi-Babe; that is, Beautiful, Amiable, Bold and Entertaining. Asides from exploring her talent professionally, she’ll be obligated to get involved in women empowering projects that would especially reinforce the unique role of an African woman in the development of our society.

www.niyitabiti.com

AT BROWN HEART FOUNDATION ONE DAY EVENT AT IBOGUN,OGUN STATE

By Niyi Tabiti


-->

It was a long journey to Ibogun, Ogun State but I embarked on it because of Chaste Inegbedion, the founder of the Brown Heart Foundation, a man has done well for himself. Ibogun, the birth place of former President Olusegun Obasanjo is also the host community to the school of Engineering, Olabisi Onabanjo University.

On the way I saw some policemen running after a motorcycle rider. They sighted the ‘Okada’ rider throwing away something away in a nylon bag... immediately he sighted them from afar. So, the policemen thought he was hiding something from them to evade arrest so they went after him.

On getting to the venue of Brown Heart Foundation seminar, It saw many students who had participated in different activities relating to the event. They had a great walk in the morning and there was also a game arcade to enable them relax. Speakers at the event talked about ways to avoid heart failures which results from depression.

In all, it was a nice experience by a young man who wants to immortalize his late father with an annual event like this.

Gistmaster and Muiyiwa Osindero, a popular designer, were part of the speakers and it was a worthwhile experience.

FEMI ADEBAYO + FUNKE AKINDELE = WE DON'T KNOW YET!

Niyi Tabiti

Funke Akindele is no doubt the current champion in the Nigerian movie industry. At least, she has been wonderfully blessed by most award organizers in the country and beyond for her hilarious role in Jenifa, a yoruba movie that portray the fake lives most girls live on campus..showing off that they have opulent background whereas,the opposite is the case.
Funke is not alone,one man who has been seeing her off to most of this functions (He is not an escort o!) is no other person than the handsome Femi Adebayo (son of popular actor Adebayo Salami). A source told us that they are just close but many people are thinking otherwise. They say, Funke is only like egg to a movie producer.Anytime, they appear at functions, Funke's sister is always the one holding Femi to prevent the prying eyes of the public thinking Funke Akindele + Femi Adebayo =hmm...