Rick Ross Cancels Calabar Festival Performance

Rick Ross at Lil Wayne's album release party in August

Those who have been waiting for Rick Ross to make his high profile appearance at this year’s Cross River State ‘Calabar Christmas Festival’ will have their hopes dashed as it has been reported that the rapper has cancelled his trip.

Rick Ross, as announced earlier was supposed to perform at the festival on Wednesday, December 28, 2011. Already fellow Maimi-based singer Sean Kingston had performed at the festival on December 16 at the UJ Esuene Stadium.

Ross’ reps told hip hop news website Allhiphop.com that the Nigerian show has been cancelled due to ‘unfulfilled contractual obligations’.

The reps denied the Maybach Music Group (MMG) boss’ health was the reason behind the latest cancellation. Ross was forced to cancel several shows in October due to a pair of seizure attacks.

‘Rick was very excited to attend this event as it is the biggest festival in Nigeria and he is quite disappointed that he will not be performing’, a rep for Rick Ross said.

‘We aware of the situation and will put out an official statement later today. I can’t say anything for now’, Confidence Tawo, a member of the Events Management Department of the Cross River State Governor’s office told NET over the phone.

The Cross River State Calabar Christmas Festival which is one of Africa’s biggest carnival events kicked off on Tuesday, December 6, 2011 and has featured performances from Sean Kingston, Asa, Seun Kuti, Timaya and a host of other acts.

Diddy Ventures Into Tequilla Business

Entertainment mogul and three-time Grammy Award-winner Sean Combs, better known as Diddy is apparently about to extend his business ventures to include alcoholic beverage Tequila.
The Diddy Dirty Money front liner, whose foray into liquor branding began with popular premium vodka, Ciroc, in October 2007, is set to join hands with a ‘true tequila artist’ to promote the brand.
According to Diddy, ‘There isn’t one particular Tequilla that I love and I’ve been spending a lot of time in Mexico… So in the next year you will see me going toe to toe with John Paul (Jones Dejore) who owns Patron. I’ll be challenging him to make the best, smoothest and most authentic Tequilla in the world‘. The Patron Spirits Company sells more than 2 million cases of Tequila annually.
Sean ‘Diddy’ Combs is reportedly the richest figure in entertainment with an estimated net worth of 500 million dollars according to Forbes latest rankings.

Mandela’s Grandson In Marital Controversies

The first wife of Nelson Mandela‘s grandson is on the move to have her husband’s wedding to a Swazi princess, Mbali Makhatini, annulled on the grounds that the pair is still legally married.
Mandla Mandela, 37, reportedly defied a court order recently placed on him barring him from entering into any protracted civil union while still legally married to Tando Mabunu Mandela, his first wife.
Tando has revealed that legal action is being taken on the controversial marriage which took place Saturday, December 24, 2011, at the Mveso Royal Palace in the Eastern Cape Province of South Africa.
‘You must remember that both Mandela and his new wife Nodiyala are both in contempt of court, they ignored a court order… I am busy drafting the papers‘, declared Wesley Hayes, legal counsel representing Ms Mandela.
Mandla Mandela, who is a Member of South African parliament, also had his marriage to a woman from the Reunion Islands annulled on the same grounds. He has been at the centre of a lagging divorce case with Tando Mabunu Mandela, his first and only wife, since May 2009.
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EME’s Skales Survives Ghastly Motor Accident

Skales says

Nigerian Entertainment Today has learnt that upcoming rapper Raoul John Njeng-Njeng better known as Skales recently survived a ghastly motor accident which has left one person reportedly dead.

The rapper who is signed to Banky W’s Empire Mates Entertainment (EME) was said to have been leaving Elegushi beach located at Lekki, Lagos where he partied at the DV8 Carnival and decided to hang on a friend’s SUV because the vehicle was already filled up.

Sources say Skales along with three other friends hung on the vehicle and rode towards the Lekki Express way when their vehicle bumped into a ditch and tumbled. The rapper escaped death, two others too but a popular custom T-shirt maker known as Syntillate was said to have ended up under the SUV which was lying on the floor upside down. While some sources say Syntillate (who is popularly known for his iRep T-shirts) is dead others suggest he is still in a coma.

Skales took to twitter hours ago to say, ‘Tank God 4 life….God is 2 merciful…he has neva failed!!! He saved ma life so ama giv him all d praise…so happy 2 see anoda day!!!’ @youngskales tweeted.

EME is yet to make an official statement but the label’s rep Osagie Osarenkhoe confirmed the news. ‘Yes he was in an accident but he’s doing fine, I haven’t seen him to get full details yet’, she assured NET.

Story developing.

University of Nigeria Nsukka Honours Chinua Achebe

Eminent African novelist and famed author of classic novel ‘Things Fall Apart‘, Chinua Achebe, is getting set to once again rub minds with the academia in the University of Nigeria Nsukka, as the International Conference and Chinua Achebe Annual Lectures holds in January 2012.

The Dean, Faculty of Arts of UNN, who expressed that the development is long overdue, stated that, ‘the non-establishment of such lectures and honour to professor Chinua Achebe by us till now is a huge oversight which has to be corrected with deep sense of apology’.

The lecture, which is titled ‘Emergent Issues in Humanities in Africa in the Third Millennium‘, forms part of events for the inaugural lecture for the emeritus Professor of English.

Chinua Achebe, popularly referred to as the ‘father of modern African writing’ recently made international headlines when in November he rejected the National Honour of CFR conferred on him by President Goodluck Jonathan, citing persisting unresolved political issues. It was the second time he was rejecting such national honour from the government of Nigeria.

kelly Handsome Involved in a car Accident on Christmas Eve

News came in yesterday that kelly handsome was involved in a car accident in Imo state on christmas Eve. we do not have much information on this but Thank God he Survived the accident with his crew. We wish him speedy recovery..

53Share Music | Discussion | More Create Account | Sign In Koko Koncert Koko Concert 2011 - Lagos - Dec 27th, 2011 | Please Don't Miss

It’s here again. One of the biggest events of the year, every year. The Mo-Hitts all stars bring you Koko Concert.

Going down 27th of December 2011 at the Eko Hotel & Suites. Tickets already on sale at the Eko Hotel & Suites, Ozone Cinemas, Silverbird Galleria and Koko Lounge..

Celebrate the Baileys Fashion Lounge Xmas Charity Edition & Website Launch with Celebrities & Fashion Stars! 28th December 2011

To mark the end of a successful year, one of Nigeria’s leading fashion networking  party organizers – Fashion Lounge will be hosting yet another fashion soiree – Baileys Fashion Lounge Xmas Charity Edition on Wednesday 28th December at the Milk Fashion Bar.

This fashion party will include a charity fashion auction featuring pieces by top Nigerian design labels;

• Grey
• Kiki Kamanu
• Kinabuti
• Rouch
• Rouge Valleri
• Litterati
• Moofa
• Prima Rouge
• Lola Buttons 

and many others and will feature special appearances by SDC, IK Osakioduwa, Mai Atafo, Bridget Awosika, Jumai Shaba, OC Ukeji, Tiwa Savage and more. The day will hosted by the dapper Abdul (Host of STV E-Weekly).

This event will also serve as avenue for the official launch of Fashion Lounge’s online portal. Admission is strictly by invitation and guest list only, to attend RSVP by sending your full name and phone number to rsvp@fashionloungeng.com. For more information on how to book stalls Call Kemi Akande on 08138381983 and  Rachael Akingbade-Taiwo on 07039602167 or simply send an E-mail to info@fashionloungeng.com

Be sure to RSVP for a chance at attending this event for a noble cause.

Date: Wednesday 28th December 2011
Time: Red Carpet starts 7 PM
Venue: Milk Fashion Bar, 9 Akarigbere Close, off Idejo Street, off Adeola Odeku, Victoria Island, Lagos
Contact: For more info and general inquiries

• Call 0703 960 2167 | 0813 8381983
• E-mail info@fashionloungeng.com
• Follow them on Twitter@fashionloungeng
• Check out their Facebook Page

About Fashion Lounge
Fashion Lounge Industry Networking party is a regular event attended by the creme de la creme of the fashion industry. The event is aimed at bringing  all the facets of the industry together to acrue business or mingle with the movers and shakers of the Nigerian Fashion industry. The event has been graced by various entertainers and fashion moguls like Tiwa Savage, Basketmouth and Mai Atafo. It has also been featured on MTV Base, M-Net, STV and AIT as well as publications such as Elan, Sleek Weekly and Complete Fashion Magazine.
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Ivory Coast International/Manchester City FC Star Yaya Touré is the 2011 Glo-CAF African Footballer of the Year – Photos from the Ceremony

Congrats are in order!
28 Year Old Ivory Coast International and Manchester City Football Club midfielder Yaya Touré received the 2011 African Footballer of the Year award at Glo CAF Awards Gala on Thursday December 22nd 2011 at the Banquet Hall of the State House in Accra, Ghana.

He expressed his joy as he graciously received his award – “This award is not important for me alone. It’s for my country and for my club…This is a big step in my career, I’m very thrilled. To be the winner is fantastic.“

According to the official press release from the awarding body CAF, “The honour caps a wonderful year for the midfield maestro who has been in scintillating form for club and country. Toure is winning the topmost individual honour in African football for the first time and he joins compatriot Didier Drogba as the only Ivorians to have laid claim to the award since its inception in 1992.“

Other winners include Ivorian striker Souleymane Coulibaly who won the Most Promising Talent of the Year
award and Tunisia midfielder Oussama Darragi who won the African Footballer of the Year “Based in Africa” award.

Nigeria was also on the award recipients list as Super Falcons captain Perpetua Nkwocha won the Women’s Footballer of the Year award for an unprecedented fourth time. The 35-year old Nigerian had previously won the award in 2004, 2005 and 2010. Retired Nigeria international Austin “Jay Jay” Okocha received a special recognition award.

Lady Gaga Sued By Former Assitant

US pop star Lady Gaga has received one of the oddest Christmas gifts as she has been slammed with a lawsuit from her former assistant.

According to reports, Gaga’s former assistant Jennifer O’Neill claims she was a slave to the singer, having to do such outrageous things as fetching a towel for her after she showered!

O’Neill who worked for the pop goddess for a period of 13 months says she is still being owed $380,000 in overtime. She further elaborated on her job; it included ‘ensuring the promptness of a towel following a shower and serving as a personal alarm clock to keep (Gaga) on schedule’.

The lawsuit however is not directly aimed at Gaga but at her concert management outfit – Mermaid Touring Company.

‘The suit is completely without merit’, Gaga’s rep told the New York Post.

9ice – Versus [Album Review]

To be the best they say you have to retire the best. Eager to be on top again, 9ice features the biggest pop stars on his 5th conceptual album Versus. On each track he features (or as this album is structurally designed- he goes against) acts such as 2face Idibia, VIP, Wizkid, Banky W, M.I, Timaya, Tiwa Savage, Psquare and others.

9ice should be encouraged for pushing out a conceptually driven LP in this day and age when everyone wants to play safe. 9ice Vs 2face is a good album opener. It might not be another ‘Street Credibility’ but it possesses enough soul for it to stand out in the album.

9ice Vs Wizkid as expected is a dance song chuck full with Yoruba phrases. The new wonder kid of Nigerian music dazzles on this Spellz-produced track. Wizkid’s boss and mentor, Banky W features on the next track. This isn’t really Banky’s kind of thing but he adapts well and even adds a few Yoruba phrases on his verse. It is a cool clash of two worlds on this raunchy track.

9ice enlists the help of hottest female pop act out now on 9ice Vs. Tiwa Savage. This might look like a mismatch on paper when one considers 9ice’s coarse voice and Tiwa’s smooth and sexy appealing vocals. But Tee-Y Mix makes it work; creating a very groovy song. This is one of the album’s strongest collaborations and should be pushed as a single.

The Alapomeji boss also features rappers on his new album. 9ice Vs M.I is a strong match-up. The re-worked Cheepho-track which now features a harder bass line sees 9ice taking shots at his (imaginary?) foes. M.I has one of his best cameo appearances. ‘We are the most incredible out of Nigeria/ everyone talks about our music in your area/ fever high lyrics killing rappers like malaria’, spits a flashy M.I.

9ice Vs Dagrin is a track that more than adequately delivers to its target audience. This song will bump in ‘Owambe’ parties for a while. Sadly 9ice Vs Modenine doesn’t live up to the previous rap collaborations. The song is incoherent and is all over the place.

On the 9ice Vs KWAM 1 song, 9ice pays homage to his Fuji roots by featuring the almighty KWAM 1. 9ice slightly outshines the legend on this one but that doesn’t hold the song back.

Like on the Basorun Gaa album, 18 tracks is quite a stretch. Also for such a conceptual album, a chief sound architect would have helped this album sound better. An ID Cabasa or any producer of his experience would have known how to make the album sound like one whole unit. Versus sometimes sounds like a collection of songs and not an album. Despite these however Versus shows that 9ice can go toe to toe with some the best names in the land even though he isn’t ready to beat some of them yet.

Rating- 3.5

Photos From Muma Gee And Prince Eklips Eke’s Wedding

Popular Nigerian musician Muma Gee has tied the knot with Nollywood actor Prince Eklips Eke.

The wedding as announced earlier was held in two parts; a traditional wedding ceremony took place at the Uwame compound, State school, Odiabidi Village, Ukpata Kingdom, Ekpeye land in Rivers State on Tuesday, December 20, 2011.

The white wedding followed three days later at the Recovery House, stadium road, Portharcourt. The wedding was presided by ReverendUgochukwu Unachukwu.

Check out a few photos below…

NETPod: Aduke – Made In Lagos

Born to dentist father and lawyer mother, one would wonder where Aduke’s interest in music sprung from. Being the last of two children, the Ekiti-born singer says her art is life for her and music is the core of her passion.
Her style, which tends to the folklore genre, might not be new to our ears but in an era where pop sound has dominated the market, Aduke’s music is a breath of fresh air.
‘Made in Lagos’ tells the tale of the city – its highs and lows. Aduke’s strong vocals still sounds quite melodious over well struck guitar sounds. She clearly paints the metropolis in the most vintage way as possible but doesn’t leave out its urban features. Beautiful.
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US Based Nigerian Bags 5 Years Over Death Threat

An aspiring US based Nigerian rapper, Olutosin Oduwole, has been sentenced to five years in prison over a note threatening a killing spree unless ransom was paid.

The 26-year-old former Southern Illinois University-Edwardsville student however claimed the note was only his rap lyrics.

Madison County Circuit Judge, Richard Tognarelli who handed out the judgement, however agreed with the Jury that convicted Oduwole in October and also sentenced him to 364 days and a thousand Dollar fine for having a loaded gun on campus.

Oduwole was arrested after police found a note in his abandoned car, just months after the infamous Virginia Tech shooting that left 32 dead including the gunman.

The note demanded payment into a PayPal account, stating ‘if this account doesn’t reach $50,000 in the next 7 days, then a murderous rampage similar to the VT shooting will occur at another highly populated University. THIS IS NOT A JOKE!‘

After his sentencing, Oduwole who got ten years less than what prosecution initially requested, also pleaded guilty to felony charges of theft and computer fraud for an online sale of a gun he didn’t have. He is to serve a two-and-a-half-year probation on that charge to be served with his prison term.

MTN Rewards Users With Xmas Surprises

One of Nigeria’s biggest telecommunications networks, MTN has announced they will be rewarding their subscribers by offering a more convenient and exciting means of communication this yuletide period.

The first offer sees all customers on the ‘MTN family and Friends Xpanded’ subscription plan receive one minute free worth N30 for every three minutes received. Customers who want to enrol in the plan should text ‘bonus’ to 131.
A second is only available to prepaid customers who will enjoy the lowest call rate at N8.33k when they pay N100 for 12 minutes of call to China, US, Canada and UK lines. To buy this bundle, Text YES to short code 321. Prepaid customers can also Recharge from N50 – N400 and get 10% extra airtime OR recharge N400 and above to get 20% extra airtime free.
According to MTN, the aim of dishing out these packages is to ‘reward customers who have been loyal throughout the year and also enable better communication among family and friends this yuletide season since it is a season to show love and care’.
The offer closes on December 31, 2012.

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Animal Rights Body Wages War On Kim Kardashian

By Osagie Alonge

Kim K has been regularly spotted rocking fur coats and had over time, received a lot of tongue lashing from the group. But they have gone a step further by launching a billboard campaign against her rocking fur coats.

The billboard ad shows two fox cubs with the statement that reads ‘Kim these babies miss their mother. Is she on your back’?

PETA who named the ‘Keeping up with the Kardashians’ favourite ‘Worst Dressed Person’ 2010 also blasted the 31-year-old on their official website.

‘Kim knows that animals on fur farms are beaten, electrocuted, and often skinned alive. We’ve explained it to her, and she’s watched a video expose that was filmed inside fur farms. When Kim is ready to put an end to her relationship with fur, PETA will be happy to take her discards and donate them to the homeless’, PETA Senior Vice President Lisa Lange said.

Ironically, Kim had supported her younger sister Khloe when the latter posed naked for a PETA campaign poster against fur back in 2008.

65 People, Places, Events And Things To Watch Out For In 2012

Fresh, New Year for us to rock and roll, isn’t it? All of 12 sweet months for us enjoy. But the year 2012 means different things to different people.

Depending on who and where you are, the new year could bring excitement, landmark opportunities, loads of new music, movies, books and gadgets,  long-needed inventions, change in living conditions, and, we pray not, calamities.

We don’t want anxiety to overwhelm you – so our editors got together to compile you a list of some of the key people we think will rule the year. How ’bout that?

Konvict’ – 2face And Wizkid Deny Akon Signing

Wizkid, Akon and 2face at CLUB 10

Nigerian pop stars 2face Idibia and Wizkid have denied being signed to Senegalese-American singer Akon’s Konvict/Kon Live record label, stating the news is downright false even though there is a relationship between the parties.

It was earlier reported that Akon had signed the pop singers as representatives to his Konvict Label, after Akon told reporters in Nigeria that he had signed the acts and was looking forward to working with them.

‘In Nigeria with my brothers about to take over Africa with @2faceidibia and @wizkidayo big up to P-square’, @Akon tweeted.

But Now Muzik, 2face’s management company says that 2face hasn’t been signed but has a ‘fantastic working relationship with Konvict/Kon Live’. ‘People must have misinterpreted the news, 2face is however Konvict family’, NM CEO Efe Omorogbe said.

Idibia’s publicist Bayo Omisore, told NET ‘2face has not been signed onto Konvict Music. There are only discussions going on. The agreement we have so far is word of mouth. Until documents are seen, agreed on and signed 2face isn’t signed’.

In similar fashion, Wizkid’s management have also denied the supposed signing; clearly stating that the only label the young singer is signed to is EME. ‘Hey, No Wizkid isn’t signed to any label but Empire Mates Entertainment’, Osagie Osarenkhoe, told us in response to an SMS enquiry .

Attempts to reach Psquare or their reps proved abortive.

Not one is yet sure why Akon went ahead to announce the signings. Enquiries sent to his official E-mail address have not been replied.

A similar instance had happened years back when news of Akon signing 2face’s former band mate Faze surfaced. Faze had told reporters in Lagos he’d been signed on Akon’s Konvict. Akon initially denied, but later, he issued a video release identifying with ‘Faze my home boy’ and assuring fans of a working relationship. The Konvict/Faze deal has, however, yet to see the light of day.

Model Tried to Smuggle Cocaine Inside Fake Breast and Butt Implants

A stunning model proved to be more than meets the eye after she was arrested by Italian police trying to smuggle more than £250,000 of cocaine into the country inside breast and buttock implants..

The 33-year-old woman, identified only by the initials MFM, was held by officers as she tried to distract them with her plunging neckline and tight-fitting outfit at Rome’s Fiumicino airport.

But her plan backfired as they were so captivated by her looks they pulled her over for questioning and discovered the drugs when she failed to explain why she had been to South America.

The woman had flown to Rome from Sao Paolo in Brazil and a search by female officers revealed the fake breast and buttock implants she was wearing had also been used to hide 5.5lbs of cocaine.

Nigerian stars celebrate Xmas in prison

In a bid to give hope and make prison convicts feel loved in the society, Nigerian celebrities have taken  a huge step to organize a concert in support of the prisoners.

The concert which was a concept of Yaw(Wazobia FM) and Lamboginny, was held at the Maximum Security Prison, Kirikiri, Apapa on Wednesday.

Yaw & Stella

And on ground to make the day a memorable one for the prisoners and guests were musical acts like

Sir Shina Peters, Sammie Okposu, Tee Mac, Stella Damasus, Soundsultan, Jedi, Jaywon, Jahdiel, Africa China, Segun Obe, J’odie, Freewindz, Solid Star, Kaffy, W4, Jafextra, Myk Anyasodo, Dj zeez, YQ, Hakym, Xclaim, L.K.T, Onesoul, Kash 11, Iyanyan, M.Trilla,Ray G, Papy J, Aramide, Slam, Lazbizi, Korede Bello, Nigeria prisons band and many others.

Comedians like Omobaba, Owen G, Gbenga Adeyinka, Emeka smith, Igos, Akpororo,? Acapell, Frank Onero , Dj Gosporella , DJ Roll and others also gave rib cracking jokes to the amazement of all.

Aside the prisoners and prison officials present at the event, in attendance were also special guests of honour like Chief Dele Momodu, Hon. Ayodele Joseph (Chairman Apapa Local Govt.) Austin Jay Jay Okocha,? Ali Baba, Oluwaremi Oyekunle (G.U.S winner 2010) and others.

In support of the great event, celebrities and guests all came with gifts, toiletries, clothes and other items  for the prisoners which were handed to the prison officials....

Melanie Amaro Wins US 'X Factor'

Chris Rene, Melanie Amaro and Josh Krajcik

The 19-year-old from Sunrise, Florida won a $5 million record deal and a starring role in a Pepsi advert. She was crowned the first season US X Factor winner in a Finale show that held in Los Angeles yesterday Thursday Dec. 22, 2011.

Soulful 30-year-old singer Josh Krajcik of Wooster, Ohio came second, while Chris Rene, the recovering 28-year-old singer-rapper from Santa Cruz, Calif., came in third place.

2011 CAF African Player of the Year: Yaya Toure

The 28yr old Manchester City and Cote d'Ivoire player has been named the 2011 African Footballer of the Year by the Confederation of African Football.

Second Place For African Player of The Year 2011 went to Seydou Keita of Mali and Barcelona, while the third place went to Andre Ayew of Ghana and Marseille.

2011 Legend Awards went to Ausin Jay Jay Okocha and Mustapha Hadji of Morocco.

Was Yaya Toure your best player for 2011?

Photos from Muma Gee's Traditional Wedding

 

Muma Gee's traditional wedding to Prince Eke took place on Tuesday December 20th at Odiabidi Town, Upata Kingdom, Ekpeye Land, Ahoada East LGA in Rivers State. More photos when you continue...

Uche Jombo's New Photos

 

Lovely!

NETPod: Wande Coal Makes Return With 3 New Singles

After  starving his fans for three long years, one of Nigeria’s best pop singers and hook carriers, Wande Coal is back!
Much has been said since the chubby-looking singer who slightly went off the grid-  speculations about him leaving the Mo’Hits camp, battling drugs and alleged naked pictures surfacing online.
His music, style and melody have certainly been missed, not even a bunch of cameos with his Mo’Hits crew mates and other pop acts like Wizkid could satisfy the thirst for his music from fans and critics alike.
Returning with three new singles, Wande packs a power punch; ‘Go low‘ is a customary ‘Wande’ track. High tempo synths and strong congas while he creatively spins around the bass drums.
‘Been long you saw me‘ follows suit, Wande talks about his absence and advises everyone to get their groove on.
‘Private trips‘ takes on another route. Laced with a crunk sound, the tempo suggest a more laid back feel…
*Go Low

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*Been Long You Saw Me

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*Private Trips

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NETPod: ‘Without My Heart’ – Tiwa Savage Feat Don Jazzy

By Osagie Alonge

It’s definitely Tiwa’ Savage’s year. Her return to Nigeria was well accepted with her debut single ‘Kele kele love’ plus a powerful second single ‘Love me, love me, love me’, co-headlining this year’s Hennessy Artistry Project, co-hosting the Nigerian Idol talent reality show plus performing at the top shows.
Successfully earning the right to be called the hottest female R&B singer in the country, Tiwa doesn’t seem to be slowing down. She once again leaps ahead of her counterparts as she calls on one of the biggest producers in Africa Don Jazzy who rarely features on tracks other than his Mo’Hits crew, to assist on her third single.
‘Without my heart‘ can be described as textbook reference to a Beyonce song. However, Tiwa’s vocals and delivery score her high points and if it must be said, over shadows Don Jazzy’s appearance. The instrumental samples the popular jumpy handclap riddim known as the Diwali Riddim.

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NETPod: ‘Fimisle’ – CON.tradiction

By Osagie Alonge

CON.tra.diction warms her way once more into our hearts as she gears up to release her debut album ‘Pop, Rock, Soul and Jara‘.

Her latest single off the forthcoming Lp is yet another soft rock themed number. Produced by upcoming alternative producer Coldflames, CON.tra.diction brings the same flavour and retro feeling she did with her first single ‘Dreams‘.

‘Fimisile‘ is yet another reason why alternative music should be given a little more attention than it is at this point in Nigerian music. Beautiful number.

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Gulder Ultimate Search 8: Winner To Emerge, Dec 11

(L-R): Fejioro Ejogbamu, Christopher Okagbue, Anthony Igwe and Kelvin Durst, remaining contestants in the GUS 8

After spending 13 weeks in the plains and plateau of the Egbetua Quarters, Ososo Mountains in Edo State, Gulder Ultimate Search 8 is set to come to a thrilling end this Sunday, December 11, 2011.
After the first two tasks in the Contest of Champions stage, four champions were evicted, leaving six to vie for the ultimate prize. The remaining contestants are: Kelvin Durst, Anthony Igwe, Tony Horsfall, Christopher Akagbue, Fejiro Ejogbamu and Anastasia Azike who is the last female contestant standing.
Following her feat, Anastasia is the winner of the one million naira prize for the last female contestant standing. She is however still in contention for the ultimate prize which consists of N7 million, a brand new SUV and N500,000 wardrobe allowance for one year.
Gulder Ultimate Search 8 adopted a different format from the previous editions of the show. This year, 30 contestants were selected to participate; as against the 10 individuals who contested in previous editions. Furthermore, they went into the jungle in three batches, consisting of 10 contestants each – five male and five female contestants.
For the first time, viewers had a chance to vote back in contestants who had earlier been evicted.

Rhythm Unplugged Hits Lagos, Dec 18

Mike Epps

The much anticipated 2011 edition of the Rhythm Unplugged concert, which for the first time will combine comedy and musical performances, is billed to commence on Sunday, December 18, 2011 and Friday, December 23 2011.

Organizers of the show, Flytime Promotions, have assured us of a bigger and better show than previous editions, with a special comedy concert featuring world famous African American Actor/Comedian, Mike Epps.

Also performing with the comedian on stage during the comedy show are some of Nigeria’s finest stand up comics; Basketmouth, I Go Dye, Gordons, Bovi and Buchi.

The gigs will feature performances by a cream of the country’s top artistes including 2face, Psquare, 9ice, Wizkid, Banky W, Tiwa Savage, M.I, Jesse Jaggs, Ice Prince, Duncan Mighty, Flavour, Naeto C, Sound Sultan, Lynxxx,  David O, and Olamide.

Others are Waje,  SamKlef, Eva, Mo’Cheddah, Seyi Shay, Goldie, Konga, Loose Kaynon, Retta, Skidd, Chidinma, Bez. Omawunmi and Timi Dakolo.

The musical concert will take place at the Ocean View, while the comedy concert will hold at the Expo hall of the Eko Hotel and Suites, Victoria Island.

Popular OAP at Rhythm FM 93.7, IK Osakioduwa will be hosting the show.

Princess And Racheal Evicted From Project Fame Season 4

Racheal and Princess

It gets tenser for viewers as the week goes by at MTN Project Fame West Africa Season 4. Over the weekend, two contestants Princess and Rachael said goodbye as they were evicted from the show.
Last week, the two evictees along with Ethel, Yvonne, Roy and Ese had been put on probation leaving them with one more chance to get themselves back into the competition. But after the six performances, Princess and Rachael were left hanging when the judges saved Ethel and the faculty Ese. Yvonne and Roy were also saved through unfamiliar circumstances as the latter saved Yvonne after a spectacular performance.
Rachael and Princess then performed for once last time and wowed everyone including the members of the faculty and the judges.
On the next day, the last six contestants standing thrilled the audience with an opening performance by rendering gospel group Infinty’s ‘Olori oko’. In pairs, the contestants then rendered other songs from Sunny Ade and Onyeka Onwenu’s ‘Wait for me’ and Mariah Carey and Whitney Houston’s ‘When you believe’.
‘I must say that you all brought your best tonight and even if there were some slight hitches, your performances tonight were very impressive and I must commend you all for making it this far in the competition… you guys are already stars! We have decided to leave the judging to the viewing public to start voting as this competition has gotten tougher so it is completely out of our hands now’, Kwame announced on behalf of the judges.
The last six contestants will now slug it out for the grand prize of 2.5 million naira with a fully loaded Toyota Rav 4 jeep and a recording contract.

Victoria Beckham In Shopping Spree For Daughter

Victoria Beckham and baby Harper at JFK Airport

Former ‘Spice Girls’ member, Victoria ‘Posh Spice’ Beckham is apparently on a shopping spree for 5 month old daughter Harper Seven Beckham as she was recently spotted stocking up on designer clothes at the Carmel Baby Store in London.
The 37-year-old wife of celebrated footballer, David Beckham, reportedly spent $645 on several items including $70 faux fur gloves, a $235 coat, $105 cardigan and a $235 party dress.
Victoria, who is also a fashion designer with her own range of sunglasses and fragrance, reportedly loves buying new outfits for daughter Harper, mixing designer and high street items.
Beckham has participated in five official documentaries and reality shows about her, including ‘Being Victoria Beckham’, ‘The Real Beckhams’, and ‘Victoria Beckham: Coming to America’.
Victoria Caroline Beckham is married to David Beckham and they have four children; Brooklyn Joseph, Romeo James, Cruz David, and Harper Seven.

Genevieve, Omotola, Rita Dominic At The AFRIFF Awards 2011

Chioma Ude - Founder of AFRIFF Awards

The awards ceremony of the Africa International Film Festival took place on Saturday, December 3, 2011 at the Oriental Hotel, Lekki and was attended by a host of Nollywood stars and other top notch celebs. Also in attendance were US actresses Lynn Whitfield and Tichina Arnold.

Check out a few photos taken at the event…

‘Big Daddy’ Premieres In Lagos

Director of 'Big Daddy', Chris Ihidero and cast members

On Sunday December 4, the cinema 3 of the Silverbird Galleria opened it doors as it played host to a number of guests who were invited to watch the premiere of the much talked about ‘Big Daddy‘ movie on rape and sexual violence.
Guests at the premiere included Charles and Amaka Igwe, Sunday Are, Ebuka Obi-Uchendu, Ifeoma Williams, Ayeni Adekunle, Tee A, Tosyn Bucknor, Jahman Anikulapo, Zeal and  Niyola.  Others are Muiyiwa Oshidero, Bunmi Dipo-Salami, Olufemi Kayode, Kate Ibeanusi, Lala, OC Ukeje, Ibiyemi and the Commissioner for women affairs in Ekiti state, Fola Richie-Adewusi.
Written and directed by Chris Ihidero, the short film captures the story of a vulnerable young girl (played by Zara Abimbola-Udofia) who, under the very eyes of her mother and brother, was violated repeatedly by her uncle.
The event was anchored by Lamide Akintobi while Yemi Adamolekun co-ordinated the conversation panel.
Check more glamoring pictures after the cut

Wizkid, Sound Sultan, BrymO, Others To Perform At FAB Night Out

Wizkid

FAB magazine, the organizers of the annual FAB Night Out event have announced the exciting list of artistes who will be thrilling the guests celebrities from the world of fashion, music and entertainment with scintillating performances at the forthcoming fashion/awards show.
Headlining this year’s edition is none other than pop sensation Wizkid. The list also includes popular acts such as Sound Sultan, Praiz, Brymo, Yemi Alade and Nigerian-American singer Zaina. Comedians Yaw and Ushbebe will also be on set to crack up guests with hilarious jokes.
Organizers say Ebuka of Big Brother fame and TV presenter Jumai Shaba will host the event.
‘We are doing all we can to make sure that this show is one you won’t forget in a hurry. This will be the fashion show of the year’, publisher of the magazine Familusi Akin Babajide.
FAB Night Out, debuted in 2010 as a platform to recognize and celebrate talents with the best offering every calendar year with a total of twenty six award plaques to reward deserving talents.
This year’s event will be held at the prestigious Landmark Village, Victoria Island on Sunday, December 11, 2011.

YouTube Launches In Nigeria

Chad Hurley and Steve Chen, two of the three founders of YouTube

Video-sharing website YouTube officially launched its services in Nigeria on Wednesday, December 7, 2011.

The company’s reps, officials from Google Nigeria and IT buffs gathered at the Civic Centre, Victoria Island, Lagos to celebrate the event.

The YouTube interface suggests which local version should be chosen on the basis of the IP address of the user which is in this case, Nigeria. Nigerian content will now be brought to the forefront for users in country, suggesting the likely videos/clips.

This also suggests that some video content might be restricted from showing in the country if copyright restrictions are filed.

A unique URL (uniform resource locator) has also been issued (www.youtube.com.ng).

So far YouTube has launched the localized versions of its website’s interface in 36 countries. The company recently launched operations in Belgium (November 17) and Colombia (November 30).

YouTube was created in February 2005 by PayPal employees; Chad Hurley, Steve Chen, and Jawed Karim. The company was later bought by Google Inc. for $1.65 billion, and now operates as a subsidiary of Google

Tamara Eteimo Wins Next Movie Star 2011!

Winner - Tamara Etiemo

After weeks of housing, training and grilling 24 housemates, the 2011 edition of the popular Next Movie Star has finally produced Tamara Eteimo as the winner!

24-year-old, Bayelsa State-born Eteimo was adjudged the most outstanding and talented contestant in the reality television show after fighting her way through to the last eight. Tomiwa Kukoyi, Aisha Alli-Balogun and Vivian Egbon fell into second, third and fourth positions respectively.

Tamara’s victory, which was announced by Afro juju maestro, Sir Shina Peters, comes with a brand new SUV, cash prize and three movie roles. In addition, the Theatre Arts graduate of the University of Port Harcourt according to show organizers will be ushered, star style, into the Nollywood movie industry.

‘This year’s edition has been a unique one. It started right from the audition grounds; we were awestruck by the quality of talents we saw, their zeal, energy and courage were beyond our expectations’, executive producer of the show’, Sola Fajobi says.

‘Right now, I’m the happiest in the world. I’m extraordinarily excited. I knew my persistence, talent and hard work were going to pay off someday and I’m most grateful to God that it came through today’, an excited Tamara says.

Now in its seventh year, the Next Movie Star has churned out a number of talents like the last three Big Brother Africa winners; Karen Igho, Uti Nwachukwu and Kevin Chuwang Pam, Kingsley Ogbodo, Portia Yamahan, Enoch Hammond (Ghana), Avinette Sirleaf (Liberia) and Akio Precious Ilami.

Iyabo Obasanjo’s Ex-Hubby Marries Again

•The couple in a passionate kiss.

•Exchange of marriage vows between the couple.

Former husband of Senator Iyabo Obasanjo, Oluwafolajimi Akeem Bello, yesterday married his longtime girlfriend, Olajumoke Katherine Thompson.
Bello tied the nuptial knot with the woman he described as “the only woman I ever loved,” amidst tight security at the marriage registry of the Orile Agege Local Council Development Area, Lagos State, southwest Nigeria.
Husband and wife were joined together at exactly 11.58 a.m. by Mrs. Oluwakemi Hamed, a registrar at the Orile Agege LCDA, in the presence of family members and friends, including veteran highlife musician, Dr. Victor Abimbola Olaiya (OON).

MORE PHOTOS FROM CHINEDU IKEDIEZE TRADITIONAL WEDDING+PLANNING BIGGER HONEYMOON

It was more like a carnival when star actor,Chinedu Ikedieze tied the knot,the traditional way,with Nneoma Nwaijah the lady that stole his petite heart.

Held at St. Theresa’s Catholic Church field,Obolo,Isiala Mbano,Imo State,Chinedu and Nneoma’s wedding attracted a mammoth crowd,made up of his colleagues in the movie industry,the Abia State Governor Chief T.A Orji and other top government officials and thousands of his fans across the nation.

In a recent interview,Aki speak on his love story.

There are wives and there are wives, also there are friends and there are friends. It is easy to have a girlfriend and enjoy yourself and have fun. But I have found out that when you want to settle down you must do that with somebody that will and must make you happy always. Nneoma makes me happy always. When I met her in 2008, it was not quite easy, but I first saw her in 2005 in Lagos, on the mainland. She visited the production where I was working; she was still in school then as an undergraduate. From there, we became casual friends until that 2008 when we decided to move the friendship to the next level and by the grace of God, this is the result.

Asked,how/ where did you propose to her and where are you taking madam for honeymoon, he said This is one secret I want to keep to myself till further notice, I am sorry about that, it was just between us and not meant for the public and about the honeymoon, We have like five places in mind, the Bahamas, Qatar, Mauritius, Caribbean Islands and one or two other places we are still considering.

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Another Nigerian Police Killing...

A young man was allegedly shot dead by police men on Tuesday November 29th in Port Harcourt, after the taxi he was traveling in refused to stop when stopped by some policemen at a road block.

The incident happened around 3pm at Rumunkara Lane along Rumuola road, opposite First Bank, Port Harcourt. According to eye witnesses, the police men chased after the cab after it refused to stop and then opened fire. The young man who was a passenger in the cab, was hit and killed instantly.

Continue to see photo taken at the scene of the shooting...viewer's discretion advised...

Senate announces the names of those benefiting from oil subsidies

Yesterday Dec 2nd, the Nigerian Senate announced the names of those Nigerians who are benefitting from our oil commonwealth...names of companies that shared N1.4 trillion petroleum subsidy funds.

The Senate's joint committee probing the management of petroleum subsidy funds disclosed at an investigative hearing that over 100 companies including construction companies participated in the sharing of N1.426 trillion between January and August 2011, a figure that contradicts that of the Petroleum Product Pricing Regulatory Agency, which it put at N1.348 trillion.

The full list, and their individual haul, as read out in the Senate yesterday, when you continue...