Welcome

We are glad you found your way here. Please relax and take your time to peruse our page. We hope at the end of your quest you would have enjoyed yourself and must have found something useful.
Please visit out website: http://www.x2dtv.com

ENJOY!!!

Friday 30 December 2011

TANKFUL artistes 2012 (part 2): Profile Snippets

BOUQUI

Bukola Folayan, popularly known as B.O.U.Q.U.I - Born Once More Unto A Quickened Unparalleled Image – is an alumnus of Obafemi Awolowo University. Bouqui started her professional career with an all-girl group called G-Vibes several years ago before going solo. She then changed her focus and style to suit urban contemporary Nigeria. She was also an accomplished broadcaster at EkoFM, Lagos before she left to “face her music”.

“Get it Started” from her debut album - B.O.U.Q.U.I – went to number one on the Backyard Beats segment of the PJ Butter hosted World Chart Show in less than a month; a first by any home–based Nigerian artiste in the history of Nigerian music.

Bouqui has performed on various platforms in Nigeria, Canada, Europe and the USA and she leaves her mark everywhere she performs. Her new single, “Igbeyinloju”, is currently on airwaves around the country.



TOSIN MARTINS

This lawyer-turned-musical artiste became popular when the hit single "Oloo Mi"- one of the best love songs to come out of Nigeria yet- was released. His debut album was released shortly after, with tracks such as "Happy Day" and "Made in Nigeria", which along with "Oloo Mi" became anthems of some sort for social functions across Nigeria, London, USA, South Africa, Kenya, Dublin, Ghana, Ukraine, etc. He hail from Lagos State, Nigeria.

 Tosin's Style goes across R&B, Highlife, Jazz fusion to more traditional and comtemporary. He has won a number of awards notable amongst which is the award for the Best New Act 2007 of the Nigeria Entertainment Awards in New York, USA and Best Cross-Over song, Nigerian Gospel Music Achievers Awards 2006.
He has appeared on many first class international shows and events including The Experience, Lagos: Rhythm Unplugged; Laffs n Jams; MTN/Storm Homecoming Party; etc. In the course of his musical career, Tosin has also performed alongside top international artistes such as Kirk Franklin, Keziah Jones, Donnie McClurkin, Sammy Okposo and many others.

K’ORE
Kehinde Olumide Akinbode popularly known as “K’ore” is from Owu, Abeokuta, Ogun State. He is a former member of the multiple-award-winning gospel band, INFINITY, which stormed the music scene with songs like Olorioko, Aye Ole and Only Praise. K’ore further established his place in the industry when his solo abum “Eledumare” which was released in 2009. A gifted and versatile songwriter and singer, his songs “So More”, “Eledumare” and a host of others continue to thrill audiences around Africa and beyond. K’ore is also a multiple award winner who continually strives to improve his art.

He is X2D’s Brand Ambassador and a host of the TANKFUL 2012 concert.

 
TIM GODFREY

Born to Mr. and Mrs. Victor Godfrey, Tim Godfrey started his music training as a teenager. As a child, he was often in the midst of adults, and thus found his way into the adult choir at his family church in Kaduna.

“The child grew” and became a Music Director, a position he held for over a decade before launching fully into the Music industry on the 14th of February, 2004. Tim originated his own style of revolutionized African music fused with western fills along with ‘his’ Xtreme Crew - put together from the churches he has worked at. In a period of five (5) years, Tim Godfrey and the Xtreme Crew have performed professionally on several platforms and have won various awards. “Agidigba”, “Hero”, “I dey wonder” are a few of his award winning songs.



 
OKIKI JESU

OKIKI JESU - Adedoyin Adeotun – is a gifted Nigerian artiste who became born again in 1995. Shortly after his conversion, he became a Praise and Worship leader, serving God with his gift and talent.

In 2002, Okiki began a world mission to take his music beyond entertainment to soul-winning and to cause revival around the World using the Fuji genre. Since then he has performed far and wide and gained popularity among the youth and adults alike. His message is encapsulated in his slogan: Praising the Lord, Reviving the World”.

He has released a few albums including ‘So So Wonder’, ‘Unlimited Praise’ and ‘Better Life’.

TANKFUL 2012 Artistes (Part 1): Profile Snippets

PSALMOS


Psalmos is a gospel artiste who has a passion for God as well as her music. She snuck unto the Nigerian music scene on the platform of Club X, and launched her career with the release of "He Good"from her first album.

In a short time, Psalmos has established her place as one of Nigeria's prolific Praise leaders. She is currently in the studio working on her second album, out of which she has completed five tracks.
She would also complete work on a new video from her “Xpression of His Goodness” album soon.


DOLLY P

Dolly P is a ministering gospel Rap artiste, born Princess Ololadedolapo Precious Ese in the United Kingdom to Nigerian parents, who hail from the Delta region. Her talent was discovered during a talent showcase organized by her church - she emerged winner with a rap acapella delivery against conventional singing! Thereafter she recorded her demo, “Use Me” – a soulful R’n’B gospel stint which showed her vocal prowess. In 2011, Paul Akhimie, a renowned talent management and promotions consultant invited her over to Nigeria, the result of that collaboration brought about the hit single (Nigerian version) “Use Me” featuring Sugaboi, Yobemoh ; a hip hop/afro pop gospel groove. She has being ministering this song in numerous churches and concerts in London, Birmingham and other parts of the UK.


PITA

PITA (Praise in this Age) is the buzzing new contemporary gospel artist from Lagos, Nigeria. This singer / Song writer has a debut album ‘As I am’ which consists of fresh international sounds including ‘Last of Me’, his radio hit single “Imela” and ‘You Light Up My World’, among others.

Pita fell in love with music at the age of seven when he joined the children’s choir at the Upper Mission Church, Lagos where he took lead roles in the choir and even led worship. In his teenage years, Pita joined a six-man acapella group by the name Baby’s Heart. This group which is still active has toured various cities across Nigeria, resonating mainly with the youth of the nation. Pita has collaborated with prominent gospel artistes across Nigeria Tosin Martins, Olufunmi, B.O.U.Q.I and many more. 



CHIIKA

Chiika is a Music minister, song writer, music producer and businessman/corporate sales executive. He describes himself as "a simple, young fella who loves praising God's name and meeting individuals."





VIVA

VIVA is a singer, songwriter, author of songs like “God is Real”, “Shalom” and “Super Star”, and is fast becoming a voice to reckon with in these parts. She started out as a member of the now defunct quartet “Anchor”, and as a backing vocalist for the likes of Bouqui, Segun Obe, Olufunmi, Aity and others before stepping out as a Rock Artiste. Today, Viva combines a rare gift of voice, profound lyrics and spirit filled contemporary expressions and has had a chance to share a stage with top artistes in Nigeria.






LAMBOGINNY

Lamboginny is a young Nigerian musician who started his music journey in 1999. In 2002, he was part of the first “Starquest” artists in Nigeria and came 4th. Lamboginny is also very passionate about a crime-free society and hence he embarked on “Lamboginny: Say no to Crime” project courtesy of which he was appointed as a Honourary Prison Officer in December 2010. According to him, the aim of this project is to help rehabilitate inmates through music. He has carried this message from one prison to another, including Kirikiri Prisons in Lagos. Next stop, he says, will be university campuses and communities.


AMBASSAGE

Andrew Abu a.k.a Ambassage is a gifted song writer, rap artiste and Producer with a passion for inspiring and positively influencing lives through music laced on Kingdom values. With skilful yet deep and spiritful  rhymes as well as catchy and ‘phat’ beats, Ambassage simply leaves listeners awe-struck and wanting more with hit tracks like “Showcase” and “Gidi City Anthem”.  His distinct style of Hip Rock and ‘Hip HopE’ - as he calls it - plus an uninhibited fusion of Rap with Rock, Classical and contemporary sounds, makes him a unique, eclectic and exciting artist. In his words – “I am a Sold Out, Die Hard, Christ-a-holic” who, through his music, strives to show that young people can be “Saved, Proud and loud about it - and still have clean fun”. Ambassage has performed alongside the likes of Rooftop MCs, BOUQUI, Cobhams, K’ore, MidNight Crew, Frank Edwards and Eben to mention a ‘few’,  and is currently working on his album. 


PSALM EBUBE

Psalm Ebube, whose real name is Akinyemi Samuel, is a singer and a songwriter who despite studying Mechanical Engineering has a passion for using his gift of vocals to praise God. He emerged on the Nigerian music scene with the release of his singles – ‘Ebube’, ‘Kabiosi’ featuring Patricia Uwaje-King of Midnight Crew, ‘You Alone’ and ‘Think of You’; which garnered over a 400,000 internet downloads. Some of his songs have also attained regular airplay on TV channels.
He has worked with different artistes including Infinity, Kenny K’ore, Lara George, Wole Oni, Adunni, Nill Oka (Ghana) and Marvelous Arunde (Kenya).


PROVABS

Provabs – Shubi Aina - is one of Nigeria’s fine, young, gentleman rap artistes for whom the doors into the world of music opened in 2000 when he became part of the group - “Dot X” (Deacons of the Christ). The group’s members spilt in 2002, but he went on to build for himself a career in music. His name - PROVABS - refers to poetic rhymes offering values, access, blunt-truth and salvation.
Provabs has singles such as “Swagger” and “Bless Me (Dey Go)” and has worked with various artistes including Infinity, Jedi, Ige and Dekunle Fuji among others. His goal is to reach out to the lost with the message of hope and grace.

 
HENRISOUL

Orji Ifeanyichukwu Henry - "Henrisoul"- was born on the 5th of April. He started his music career at the age of 16 and at 18, he was featured in "E Go Do Am" by Dipzy. Three months later, he released "Gbagoro Agbago" featuring Kenny K'ore, which eventually became a hit track. The track was produced by Dare David. His upcoming album features the hit track. "When God Speaks", "Ife Re", "Warning" and "Jesus" among others. He is a graduate of Estate Management from Yaba College of Technology, Lagos


MOTARA

Motara is a song writer and worshipper who graduated from Adekunle Ajasin University in Ondo state, Nigeria. She is a lover of God and music whose hit single "Oba Ni", featuring Mike Abdul of Midnight Crew, is garnering airplay. Her passion for music drives her to be the best for her MASTER!!!





  


ROOT MUVEMENT

THE ROOTS MUVMENT is a group of progressive and multi-talented individuals including Jo-The-Gun (producer), illwill (artiste, producer), Royal Priest (producer), DJ FINAL (DJ, Blogger and artiste), Joe Rock (artiste, Video director), Gabriel and Dee-Why. Together, they run THE HYBREED STUDIOS (a High-End Recording Studio) and JELLOFMUSIC.com (a Music Social Network), and they also have to their credit songs that have garnered repeated airplay – “Hallelujah Chorus remix” by The Roots Muvment Allstars, “My Life” by illwill (audio and video), “Mma Mma Diri Gi” by The CYC Choir of ArchBishop Vinning Church Cathedral (audio album and video), “Hold You” by DJ FINAL (audio), “You'll be Fine” by Royal Priest (audio)



SIMPLI MICHAEL

Simplimichael - Michael Ayokunnumi Olaogun - hails from Oyo state, Nigeria. He studied Business Administration at the Lagos City Polytechnic, Lagos and started singing at a very tender age of 3.
He has been a part of several music groups including “Praise Associates” led by worship leader, Faith Ajiboye. He has also performed in many churches. Simplimichael is a member of Gospel Artistes’ Forum and is currently a worship leader at King’s Word International Church, Ikeja.

Thursday 3 November 2011

Ige: X2D Capacity Development Seminar Facilitator

Dupe “Ige” Kachi (nee Akinola) is a renowned vocal coach who holds MUSON certificates in voice, piano and theory of music. She has held a place on the Faculty of MTN’s music talent TV series, Project Fame and is, no doubt, versatile in the art of singing. Born into a family of music lovers, Ige, who started singing at the age of 7, has always appreciated all forms of music from classical to jazz and R&B.
A graduate of University of Lagos’ Engineering faculty, Ige has performed with the Laz Ekwueme Chorale, Steve Rhodes Voices, Chosen Treasure Choir (HOTR), Covenant Christian Centre Choir and Music Society of Nigeria (MUSON) Choir. She also performed at Calabar Carnival 2005-2007, TOTAL 50th anniversary celebrations, “The Experience”, Celtel Brand Unveil, “The Platform”, African-American concert among others. Ige has written and performed several jingles and has been part of a few stage plays. She has also performed with a variety of artistes including Lara George, Provabs, Olufunmi, JC Qrew, Sammie Okposo, Cobhams, Yinka Davies, Rhymzo and Sunny Neji.


Ige would be teaching a session at the forth-coming X2D Capacity Development Seminar on the 23rd of November, 2011.
Register now to be a part of it!

Wednesday 26 October 2011

X2D Capacity Development Seminar


The X2D Capacity Development Seminar is a workshop put together with the aim of equipping practitioners of the kingdom creative entertainment industry with skills, tools and information required for effective functioning in the industry. The seminar would hold periodically and continually bring to fore issues that kingdom creative people should be aware of. This is the first of the series of the Capacity Development Seminar.
Areas of Focus:
i)                    Voice & Singing
ii)                  Sound: Live, recorded, mic handling
iii)                Vision: The roles of ‘Entertainers’
Speakers:
-          Ige
-          FLO
-          Deji Irawo

Date: 23rd November, 2011
Time: 9am
Venue: Dream Factory Studio (DFS), Onward Complex, Plot YB, Mobolaji Johnson Way, Alausa, Lagos.

Target Audience:
-          Music Producers (established and upcoming)
-          Singers and upcoming artistes
-          Performing and recording artistes
-          Entertainment industry practitioners

How to pay and register
Simply pay N1,000.00 at any GT Bank branch into the following account:
Name: De King’s Vision Limited
Account No:  0019027499
Then send a message to 33222 in the following format: X2D SEMINAR *YOUR NAME *PHONE NO *TELLER NO
e.g X2D SEMINAR UCHE ADESUA 0812345678 012222

Tuesday 18 October 2011

MOTOLA - A voice of hope to her generation.

 

Sharing a word of encouragement with someone and bringing God’s healing and hope to this generation via music and entertainment are some of those things that give Motola fulfillment. In the last decade, OMOTOLA OLOYEDE-OYEBANJO has been involved in different music groups; she has however pitched her tent with House on the Rock’s Choir- Chosen Treasure. 
Making sacrifices for what one loves is not new to Motola as she gave up her foray in the professional corporate world (where she has functioned as the internal Communications Manager for Unilever and the Head of Corporate Communications for The British Council) in order to confront the task of music professionally. 
A humanitarian, she is the pioneer of ‘VIBRATIONS’ - a holiday Concert which is a medium to raise funds used to provide university scholarships for promising young people.
Her debut album is expected this month with production contributions from Wole Oni, ToluCCI, Jide Afolayan, among others.
‘Reach for the stars’-her debut video-featuring Segun Obe has a simple message- with God everything is possible.

Monday 26 September 2011

Exploring the Legend of FLO

FLO is a Nigerian producer, whose 18-year stint in Nigeria’s music production industry has seen the birth of a whole new dimension to the creation of music. A certified Lawyer and performing artiste; he is an embodiment of true entertainment. FLO considers himself a rock artiste, and he expressed this in his Christmas album - Christmas According to Flo - which he gave out free in December 2010; he further assured that there is more to be heard in his upcoming album.


"The OveFlo", which got its name primarily from the fact that it was developed while a different project was being pursued, will be released next month. It will showcase a different side of Flo to his audience.


Asked how to tell a good song, “You know a good song through its chorus; it must be able to draw someone’s attention”, he replied. And going by the hard work he has put into his works, we cannot wait to have the chorus of his songs on our lips.



*Look out for the full interview on TV soon*

Monday 19 September 2011

EFE AND ‘A NEW LEVEL’ OF WORSHIP

EFE’s story is one that shows determination, endurance, gumption and of course the grace of God working in her life. With her entry into the gospel industry spanning 12 years, Efe’s love for God and her absolute desire to give others a medium to worship God through songs has not dwindled and this is clearly displayed in her debut album - ‘A new Level’. It is a 14 tracked album with songs, in her words; ‘that will take you beyond the level of just singing; to the presence of God.’ With Flo as producer and other Artistes like Midnight Crew’s Michael Abdul on this project, you know it would be awesome.
This songstress has been rehearsing with her band for a launch concert of the album and X2D caught up with her after rehearsals on the 16th of September to get more first-hand details about the album. Efe told us she wanted the album to be a tool to bring people closer to God through worship. With tracks such as ‘We Worship’, ‘God of Everything’ and ‘Still Within the Flow’ - previously released as a radio single – “A New Level” is quintessential of the pure worship one can offer to God. This album can be purchased at ‘The Hub’, Inspiration FM and Laterna Ventures in Lagos, Nigeria.

 

Wednesday 14 September 2011

Midnight Crew, Allyson, Sax dazzle at ‘Turn It Up’ concert •Turnout mindblowing –Big B

Fans of gospel act, "Big B", and almost 2,000 listeners of his popular Sunday Programme on Splash FM, "Turn It Up", stormed Jogor Centre, Ibadan to celebrate the gospel programme's first anniversary.

In what is suspected to have been the biggest self-sponsored event so far this year, guests were treated to popular gospel songs by top acts in and out of Ibadan. The event is expected to go a long way in winning more listeners for the radio programme.

The concert got underway with the performance of Tunde Caxton-Martins. He was immediately followed by "Babatunmise", whose time on stage was described by many as 'a great time of praise to God'.

Host, "Big B", led guests in what was titled 'a time of music', and hwne he was done, he introduced Michael Abdul of Midnight Crew on stage. His introduction got the house in a joyful eruption and he justified the confidence of fans by taking them to another level with "Igwe".

"Bolaji Sax", "Ronke Giwa" and "Psalmos", among others, also rocked the capacity-filled venue with non-stop music, well supported by pianist, Ibukun Fadugba.

In appreciation of their loyalty to the radio programme, many guests went home with gift items such as fridges, generators, fans, blackberry phones and bags of foodstuff for participating in a raffle draw. Widows who attended the event were also rewarded with cash gifts.

TMG Records hosts Sammie Okposo


Gospel artiste, Sammie Okposo recently left the shores of Nigeria for the United States of America in pursuit of his international album meant for release before the end of the year.Feelers reaching us reveal that he was given a warm reception by the representative of TMG Records, being the first official black artiste signed on to the label. The meeting re-emphasized the commitment of TMG Records to Sammi Okposo. Other than the meeting, other things lined up for Okposo's trip are a press conference, a photo shoot and the recording of vocals for some of the tracks of the album. It is being reported that Award-winning producer, Kevin Bond, is working on this album project.

Thursday 25 August 2011

Asu Ekiye's "Eniye"


Asu Ekiye, also known as the Prince of the Niger Delta, is the recipient of numerous awards for his works. Remember "Wo Ekilemo" and "Yemiyemo" and so many more songs that got you dancing even when you did not understand the language? Well, Asu Ekiye has released another 'language' video - which cost a whooping 4 million naira - in anticipation of his Fourth Album. ''Eniye'', Asu's new song means ''it is mine'' and it aims to help listeners understand that what God has given you cannot be taken from you.

Using the story of the ''wise'' king Solomon and the two women who had the issue with whose baby was alive in the bible, "Eniye" passes its message quite clearly. You can be sure that you will enjoy seeing the display of the rich Nigerian culture in clear and distinct pictures.

Thursday 4 August 2011

TOYIN AND FRIENDS: JULY 2011 EDITION

“Show me your friends and I will tell you who you are.” This can definitely be said about Toyin Adebola, convener of the quarterly praise and worship event - Toyin and Friends - which aims at bringing people closer to God.

The dedication and commitment his friends show – from Samsong, who flew in from Abuja, to Williams (a Violinist), who flew in for the show from South Africa, Cohbams and Buchi among others, who came in spite of their busy schedule – tells only one story: they believe in Toyin’s work and absolutely love him as an individual. Apart from the “friends” mentioned above, V6 (who was in charge of the dance routines for Toyin Adebola’s Never Alone Again musical video), Mr. Osagie, Big B, Push (Buchi’s Protégé) and Damilola Edwards performed at the show and each of them had something good to say about  “Mr. T” as he is fondly called.

Young Simi, who performed “Love you better” and “The Hum song” (two of her lastest songs), also had pleasant comments about the host, who she has been working with in the studio for a couple of months now. X2D crew did not fail to snatch a moment with J Treash, a producer, musician and friend of Toyin Adebola, who informed us that he is putting finishing touches to his album, which would in the market from December 2011.

Catch more of Toyin and Friends on X2D.

ANKARA GROOVE: A COMBINATION OF PRAISE AND CULTURE


 Are you proud of your tradition and culture? Are you interested in what you wear? Well, if you don’t, we know a group of people who do - the youths of Fountain of Life. How so? They went all out to organize the event, Ankara Groove, to showcase the colourful and rich culture of our dear country. Among other things, the purpose of the event was to bring together youths of like minds who are ready to praise and worship the God that has totally been faithful to them.

This year’s event, organized under the auspices of The Youth Fountain 3:16, proved to be worth all the waiting because from the beginning it set out to be fulfilling and of course interesting. The performances and ministrations were, of course, from individuals who knew what it takes to connect God and His saints. “Gaise” - an Afro-centric artiste performed his hit song – “Follow Follow”- that talks about appreciating your culture and not adapting the white man’s culture (good and bad) because you think it is ‘hip’- appropriate; right. Asides Gaise, Ige, RBK and other ‘ministers’ made sure everyone enjoyed themselves - thoroughly.

In Gaise’ words, “…Ankara ni mo fi n dara, emi o ran Prada; Ti n ba de gbe so run, awe o le se mi n ‘nada’”. The event was by all means a party of the indigenous fabrics.

You can watch more on X2D showing on TVC, Kingdom Africa, STV Port- Harcourt, LTV, GTV, PRTV, NTA Abuja and so much more.  


IDY AND FRIENDS

 
“How do I carve a niche for myself?” “How do I even start a career?” “Will people like what I have to offer?”

Are these the questions that have been bothering you? Idy Enang and his friends; a proficient actor and Commissioner for Culture and Tourism - Richard Mofe-Damijo (RMD) - and ace comedian - Ali Baba - who were to speak on Personal Branding, gave answers to these and so many more questions at the event - Idy and Friends - on Saturday, 30th July, 2011. The event was powered by brand and marketing firm; Corporate Shepherds.

Idy Enang, Chief host of the event, is the Managing Director of Samsug Nigeria. He is also the originator of ‘Navigate with Idy’. At Saturday’s “Idy and Friends”, he spoke on different issues which would help one build a good career; focusing your efforts on building a career rather than move around ‘testing the waters’. Idy also explained that rather than a leap into entrepreneurship with no experience in the field of choice, it is better to start working for/with authorities in that field.

Putting that sweet icing on the cake, RMD and Ali Baba spoke about how believing in oneself can improve one’s work. RMD went further to say that there is a process one must go through - I AM, I CAN and I WILL - which must be accompanied with another process of SEPARATION - This process will help you differentiate yourself from others, create your own brand and ‘help you dominant your space’.

Not worried about your appearance? Think again, because it was also mentioned that personal grooming is important for personal branding - your poise, what you wear - know that no matter how small you start, someone is watching.
One thing that stood out in all of these individual’s speeches was that it is important to horn your skills. Idy said “serve, get the experience and develop yourself”; Ali Baba said, “do not distracted by peer pressure, focus on building yourself” and lastly from RMD – be prepared because you never know when that chance will come.
 
Early comers at the event got an opportunity to share a joyful moment with RMD when he called upon to cut his birthday cake. The cake was Idy’s surprise to RMD who turns 50 later on this month.


Wednesday 27 July 2011

DJ GOSPORELLA HOSTS AGMA 2011 WINNERS

Winner of the “Best Gospel DJ/Presenter” award at the just concluded African Gospel Music Awards which took place in the UK, DJ Gosporella, hosted fellow Nigerian winners on his radio show on Beat 99.9 fm on Sunday the 24th of July, 2011.
Present on the show were K’ore (Best Song), Tim Godfrey (Best Gospel Group),  the X2D crew (Best Gospel TV Programme) and Aaron T. Aaron.
Apart from hearing from the winners on what their awards meant to them, the show was spiced up when Gosporella asked for their opinions on why there are so many single ladies in church today.

Thursday 7 July 2011

Toyin Adebola Shoots "When Giants Fall"

Toyin Adebola is not a new name on the Nigerian music scene. Known for his quarterly worship event (Toyin & friends) which has been around for over two years now. His impact on the gospel entertainment scene is being felt with each passing day.

Only a few months after releasing his first video, "Kabio Osi", Toyin is adding more spice to his ever growing repertoire in the Nigerian Gospel Entertainment Industry with a release of a new video. The video for the song, “When Giants Fall”, was shot on Sunday 3rd July, and would soon be released for viewing. So, you do not want to go any where; stayed tuned to X2D for your first peek!

PASTOR PAUL ADEFARASIN RELEASES ALBUM

Senior Pastor of House on The Rock church, Pastor Paul Adefarasin, is now a musician! You can drop your raised eyebrows now; he hasn’t left his pulpit ministry completely - the revered man of God simply collaborated with “Chosen Treasures” (his church choir) to wax a gospel album entitled ‘I Still Believe’.
The launch concert for the album took place on Sunday, the 26th of June, 2011 at the prestigious Eko Hotels & Suites, Victoria Island Lagos.
Some of the top artistes featured on the 16 track album are Sammie Okposo, Nikki Laoye, Timi Dakolo, Segun Obe and saxophonist Mike Aremu.

Skid Ikemefuna Returns

General Manager (Special Duties) Silverbird Groups, Skid Ikemefuna, is not done yet with his career in music.
The notable gospel music act bounced back recently after staying off the stage for many years when he mounted a scintillating performance during the album launch of fast rising act, Whiz Kid.  
The performance signaled his re-entry into the music world. 
Speaking after the show, Skid said that he is returning to the stage again.
Describing himself as “an impresario and entertainer”, Skid said he is putting finishing touches to his latest single which according to him, will be released by the end of July.
“The album will hit the market toward the end of October, this year. I’m a gospel artiste and I will always present that on stage and compel any audience to appreciate me because of the showmanship, music and the message which I convey through my music. This is just the beginning of another era. I’m back on the block,” he said. “The songs I performed at the show are new songs and I intend to release a single come September, this year
For Skid, gospel music is a means of spreading the gospel of salvation to humanity. “Gospel music is celestial and spiritual and most importantly it does not expire. Unlike sports you can play music no matter your age. In fact, it gets better with age.
“Competition from younger musicians is not a problem. I’m not in this to make money but it’s a fulfillment of my covenant with Jesus Christ,” he revealed.

ANNIE LAUNCHES ALBUM IN KANO

In spite of the recent unrest experienced in the Northern part of the country, Annie, one of Nigeria’s fast rising gospel artists, successfully launched her album in Kano.
The event, anchored by the duo of MC Abbey and Essence, proved to be a gathering of prominent people from both the showbiz and corporate world including a sizeable number of Lagosians who had travelled specifically to attend the glamorous event.
The first leg of the launch had taken place in Lagos on the 17th of April, 2011. “I’m quite surprised at the turn out for the event and it goes a long way to show the popularity of my music in Northern Nigeria. The album is a must have for all music lovers”, a euphoria-filled Annie was quoted as saying.
The album featured the likes of Kefee, Sammie Okposo, Soul E and Mekoyo.

Monday 4 July 2011

The Golden Voice of Ige

Dupe “Ige” Kachi (nee Akinola) is, no doubt, versatile in the art of singing. Born into a family of music lovers, Ige, who started singing at the age of 7, has always appreciated all forms of music from classical to jazz and R&B.
A graduate of University of Lagos’ Engineering faculty, Ige’s life has always been around premised on the arts. As the child of a clergyman, she grew with classical music all around her took part in the several singing groups and choirs of the various churches that she attended courtesy of her father’s line of work. She has performed with the Laz Ekwueme Chorale, Steve Rhodes Voices, Chosen Treasure Choir (HOTR), Covenant Christian Centre Choir and Music Society of Nigeria (MUSON) choir. Some other platforms she has had include the Calabar Carnival 2005-2007, TOTAL 50th anniversary celebrations, “The Experience”, Celtel Brand Unveil, “The Platform”, African-American concert among others. She has also written and performed several jingles and has been part of a few stage plays.
Ige is a renowned vocal coach and she holds MUSON certificates in voice, piano and theory of music. She is on the
Faculty of MTN’s music talent TV series, Project Fame.
Evolution, her sophomore album, was released earlier in the year and it features the voices of Lara George, Provabs, Olufunmi and JC Qrew as Ige transits from soulful Rhythm and Blues through contemporary hip hop.  The album also comes with an assorted mix of classical music and jazz. Some of the artistes Ige has worked with include Sammie Okposo, Cobhams, Yinka Davies, Rhymzo and Sunny Neji.

Wednesday 29 June 2011

J Bones: Building His Army with Dry Bones

Jimmy Adjoto’s story, just like that of Ezekiel and the valley of dry bones, has seen the birth of a new day, where hope is been stretched forth; hence the name J Bones. ‘J’ stands for Jimmy while ‘Bones’ stands for the life that has been restored to his professional career in Music (Jimmy took an undefined break a while ago from which he thought he will never return).
 J Bones’ message is of hope, which is why he coined his own genre - ‘hip hope’. He has chosen a path where his music will be an inspiration to others especially his Country- Nigeria. J Bones’ lyrics incorporate elements of faith while also reflecting the prevailing socio-economic conditions around us.
 Born on the 13th September, he has successfully set his name in the minds of people with his new song - S.O.S (Save our Souls) - which features “Ex-O”. The song talks about the present day issues that every Nigerian knows and most Nigerians face: the situations we have come to accept as normal while the powers that be - whose ultimate role is to build the nation - look the other way. When asked why he wrote this song he said, ‘I am uncomfortable with the average Nigerian mentality of ‘not caring for our neighbours and the lack of value we place on the Nigerian life. We let ALL be, as long as it doesn't affect us directly. We are concerned about what we get NOW!!’ The musical video for Save Our Soul, which was directed by Tolucci, brought to life - with poignant visualization - the lyrics of the song.
J Bones at different times has shared the stage with Kirk Franklin, Noel Robinson, Bob Fitts and Muyiwa. He is currently based in the UK with his wife and son.
 The S. O. S (Save Our Souls) video is currently on X2D HYPE and can be caught on all of our platforms.