In a monumental development for the Nigerian music industry, the Enugu born musician of Anambra desecnt, Flavour Nabania, the celebrated highlife singer, has secured a groundbreaking deal with American rapper and business mogul, 50 Cent. The agreement, reportedly worth over ₦1 billion, will see Flavour’s hit track, *”Game Changer”*, featured prominently in *PowerBook Ghost* Season 4, Episode 9. The song is set to play during a wedding scene, marking a historic collaboration between a Nigerian artist and one of Hollywood’s most successful television franchises.

The staggering payout of over ₦1 billion makes this one of the most lucrative deals ever signed by a Nigerian musician for a Hollywood production, further cementing Flavour’s status as an international powerhouse. This achievement not only shines a spotlight on Nigeria’s rich cultural heritage but also underscores the growing influence of Afrobeat and highlife-inspired music in the global entertainment scene.

In addition to the musical feature, a Nigerian designer has been tapped to create custom outfits for the wedding scene, offering an exceptional opportunity to showcase Nigeria’s fashion prowess on a global stage. This marks a significant moment for both the Nigerian music and fashion industries, as the country’s talent continues to make waves beyond its borders.

Flavour, known for his deep connection to his Igbo cultural roots, has remained true to his highlife-inspired sound, even as global trends sway other artists toward Western musical influences. This dedication to his heritage has paid off, as it not only translates into international recognition but also guarantees him lifelong performance royalties. The deal underscores his ability to balance his identity with mainstream success, further expanding his global influence.

This collaboration with 50 Cent and *PowerBook Ghost* sets a new benchmark for Nigerian artists seeking to make their mark in international productions. While many musicians experiment with foreign sounds in pursuit of global appeal, Flavour’s commitment to authenticity continues to propel him to new heights, inspiring a generation of artists to stay grounded in their roots while achieving worldwide acclaim.

 

 

Anthony Emeka Nwosu

 

The Nigerian music industry has long been shaped by the dynamic duo, P-Square, comprising brothers Peter and Paul Okoye. Their contributions to the industry are undeniable, but recent developments have cast a shadow over their legacy. The brothers, who once dominated the African music scene, are now embroiled in a public dispute centered around issues of ownership and recognition within the group.

Peter Okoye, one half of the P-Square duo, recently broke his silence in a lengthy letter addressing his brother, Paul. In the letter, Peter expressed his frustration with what he perceives as Paul’s continuous attempts to discredit his contributions to the group they both created.

“My dear brother Paul,” Peter began, “Just like I have told you several times, I am not in any competition with you or anybody else. However, seeing you grant countless interviews where you constantly discredit my efforts in the group that we both created and built together really speaks volumes.”

Peter went on to refute Paul’s claims that he was responsible for 99% of P-Square’s songs, highlighting his role in writing and performing several of the group’s hits, including “EjeaJo,” “Get Squared,” “Bizzy Body,” and “Personally.” He expressed disappointment that Paul seemed to overlook these contributions, instead focusing on moments of perceived failure.

“What made us special was the magic that came from our combined effort – us two! P-Square was a force, and the fans fell in love with P-Square because of our uniqueness and unity,” Peter emphasized, lamenting the current state of affairs that has turned the group into what he described as a “laughingstock.”

Peter’s letter also touched on the internal dynamics of the group, accusing Paul of marginalizing him and aligning with their brother Jude to assert dominance within P-Square. He questioned the necessity of their ongoing feud and urged Paul to consider the bigger picture: the legacy of P-Square and the fans who supported them.

The letter concluded with a message of peace, despite the evident tension. “I genuinely wish you nothing but the best, bro!” Peter wrote, adding that he hopes to focus on his solo music career without further distractions.

As the public awaits further developments, including Peter’s promised address on the ongoing EFCC matter, the future of P-Square remains uncertain. Fans can only hope that the brothers can find a way to reconcile and restore the unity that once made them one of Africa’s most beloved music groups.

 

 

Anthony Emeka Nwosu

 

Renowned skit maker Brain Jotter recently gifted legendary musician Mike Ejeagha a substantial sum of money, running into millions, after reviving Ejeagha’s 40-year-old music in a skit. This act has ignited a debate among netizens regarding copyright and intellectual property laws, with many questioning whether royalties should be paid to Pa Mike.

Offering his perspective, legendary Nollywood actor and movie producer Patrick Doyle shared his expert opinion on the issue:

“The duration of the sound clip used in Brain Jotter’s skit is less than the required length to qualify for royalty sharing under current intellectual property protocols. Essentially, this is an audio-visual work conceived by Brain Jotter.”

Doyle continued, “Whatever Brain Jotter gifted the old man in appreciation for his audio clip is simply that, a gift. The good news is the audio-visual work has revived interest in the old man’s works. He can now begin to earn from the renewed interest in his repertoire.”

By
Anthony Emeka Nwosu
CONN8 MEDIA SOLUTIONS NG
Oregun, Ikeja, Lagos

 

In a bid to tackle the financial hurdles hindering the rise of emerging artists, particularly in Nigeria’s Eastern region, a prominent figure, Gaius Chibueze, popularly known as Bitcoin Chief, has taken a remarkable step. Recognizing the pivotal role of studio expenses in stifling talent, Chibueze has unveiled a state-of-the-art music studio in Enugu, offering recording and mastering services entirely free of charge.

The initiative comes as a response to the prevalent challenge faced by budding musicians, where the high costs associated with studio sessions and production often serve as a barrier to entry into the global music scene. With Nigeria boasting a burgeoning entertainment industry that commands international acclaim, the inability of talented individuals to access essential resources has remained a persistent issue.

Chibueze, an astute entrepreneur known for his ventures in the Bitcoin market, aims to address this disparity by providing a platform that nurtures creativity without financial constraints. His newly established studio, named “EASTSIDE MUSIC,” welcomes artists from across the Southeast region to unleash their musical prowess without worrying about financial burdens.

Speaking about his philanthropic endeavor, Chibueze emphasized the significance of giving back to society and empowering aspiring musicians to realize their dreams. He expressed his commitment to not only offering free recording facilities but also investing in the promotion and distribution of exceptional musical works.

“I have opened a Free Music Recording Studio in Enugu State for Southeast based Artists,” Chibueze announced. “Come Record your Songs free and if I like the Song/ Album I will invest $10-$100k into your Promo & Distribution!”

The studio’s launch marks a significant milestone in the Nigerian music industry, heralding a new era of accessibility and inclusivity for aspiring artists. With Chibueze’s visionary initiative, talented individuals now have a platform to amplify their voices and showcase their artistry on a global scale, fueling the country’s cultural export and reinforcing its position as a powerhouse in the global music landscape.

 

 

Anthony Emeka Nwosu

 

 

Don Jazzy, one of the finest music producers in the country has recently bagged endorsement with Drip Soap Africa. One of the newest entrant in the Nigerian beauty industry.

With this endorsement,the soap is making headway especially with their market activation at the Lagos International Trade Fair Market .

Peaking on the endorsement,the music master and producer ,Don Jazzy said”Friendly reminder to take your bath before joining us out in the world today. To baff Dey sweet. See as BAYANNI dey happy for slide #DripGang @dripsoapafrica”

The makers of the soap added that there are many variants of the soap and that people can choose any variants according to their skin texture. They have four variants!

In their words they said “Meet the four variants of the Drip Soap namely, Drip Papaya, Drip Vitamin C, Drip Carrot and Drip Gold with their respective unique benefits, formulated for your beauty needs. ”

“Now, you have the license to Drip. Do your skin a favour, choose between any of the variant of the Drip soap and glow effortlessly.#Dripsoap #drip #skincare #beauty”

On their positive market response and activation they concluded by saying “The love was too real and overwhelming. In our own little ways, jobs will be created, and families will smile. Market Activation at Trade Fair Lagos.Join the Drip movement.”

 

Anthony Emeka Nwosu

 

 

After a year of highs and countless mind-blowing moments, the World’s biggest Afrobeats festival returns to Portimão’ sun-kissed coast this summer. Taking place between 28-30th June 2023, Afro Nation Portugal (www.AfroNation.com) announces the first wave of names.

VIDEO
#ANP2022 Official Aftermovie

 

Among an ever-impressive array of artists, are found the first three headline acts, including global giant Burna Boy, US hip hop royalty 50 Cent and French-Senegalese rap sensation Booba. With even more still to come, tickets for Afro Nation’s flagship show will go on sale this Thursday 26th January here (www.AfroNation.com) at 12pm GMT, with a limited pre-sale available from 9am.

 

Having made a name for hosting all the hottest acts and future stars, whilst representing sounds from every corner of the African continent, Afro Nation Portugal 2023 changes the game again with global stars joining the movement from all around the globe. Uniting Africa with Europe, the US, Latin America and the Caribbean, it’s a coming together of cultures for the celebration of music, dancing and more – in one truly unmissable party.

 

Starting with so much new Nigerian talent, this year’s biggest breakthrough Asake brings his vibrant brand of Lagos street pop to Portimão, following hot off the heels of Fireboy DML, who’s had an extraordinary run of chart success with smash hit ‘Peru’ and a subsequent remix collaboration with Ed Sheeran. Ayra Starr’s rising profile can’t be ignored, with her Afrosoul style and intoxicating voice often found on tracks with Wizkid the star boy himself, she’ll make for a memorable moment at her Afro Nation debut this June.

 

Another momentous debut will come from French-Malian afro pop superstar Aya Nakamura. Known for her catalogue of hits like Djadja, Pookie, and Jolie Nana, as well as a number of high profile collaborations with the likes of Stormzy and Major Lazer, she’s also worked with with the acclaimed South London rapper Ms Banks – who herself joins the bill today, alongside fellow South London riser Gabzy, pls BNXN FKA BUJU, Tyla and more.

 

Showing a healthy mix of legendary acts sharing the stage with this year’s most exciting newcomers, The Compozers are back in 2023 to show us how it’s done, whilst Kenyan four-piece Sauti Sol add almost 20 years of Afro-pop credentials to the beach this summer.

 

No Afro Nation party would be complete without its pioneering Piano People stage, welcoming the hottest and most influential acts from the South African Amapiano scene. This year again, Afro Nation Portugal strikes hard with the ultimate Amapiano supergroup Scorpion Kings, the famous twins Major League DJz and viral phenomenon Uncle Waffles, alongside Musa Keys, Young Stunna, Daliwonga, DBN GoGo, Vigro Deep, Moonchild Sanelly, Tyler ICU and many more. With all these DJs turning it up, this year’s Piano People party will be one for the books!

With news of Afro Nation Miami landing this 27th & 28th May, the packed line up features Burna Boy, Wizkid, Rema, Asake, Beanie Man and many more

 

News for the flagship Portugal show follows the second edition of Afro Nation Ghana in 2022, which saw Meek Mill crown his momentous trip to Accra with a long-awaited headline set at the festival during Detty December. Afro Nation’s exciting return to West Africa was a uniting moment for thousands of fans from the global diaspora, and marked a progressive new era of music and arts festivals in the region. So many incredible Ghanaian acts had their chance to shine in Accra, with Black Sherif – who stole the show with his rendition of Bob Marley’s ‘Redemption Song’ – Gyakie, Camidoh and more all now set to bring their best to Afro Nation Portugal 2023.

 

Afro Nation’s debut US show has also been revealed. With news of Afro Nation Miami landing this 27th & 28th May, the packed line up features Burna Boy, Wizkid, Rema, Asake, Beanie Man and many more. With the unstoppable rise of Afrobeats, the Afro Nation movement just keeps growing and evolving every year, with more parties keeping people dancing all year round!

 

By the culture, for the culture: Afro Nation Portugal stands as an unmissable highlight of the summer festival and takes place 28-30th June 2023. Tickets go on sale Thursday 26th January, with a limited pre-sale at 9am GMT followed by General Sale at 12pm GMT. All tickets are available via: www.AfroNation.com

Afro Nation Portugal 2023 First Wave Line Up:

Burna Boy, 50 Cent, Booba,
Asake, Aya Nakamura, Fireboy DML,
Tayc, BNXN, Vegedream,
Black Sherif, Ayra Starr, Oxlade,
The Compozers, Nelson Freitas, Gabzy,
Sauti Sol, Soraia Ramos, Victony,
Ms Banks, Gyakie, Tyla, Nissi, Camidoh

 

Piano People Stage:
Scorpion Kings, Major League DJz,
Uncle Waffles
Musa Keys, Young Stunna, Daliwonga, DBN Gogo, Vigro Deep,
Moonchild Sanelly, Tyler ICU, Boohle, TXC,
Pabi Cooper, Sha Sha, Charisse C, Nicky Summers, DJ Fistoz

The Minister of Information and Culture, Alhaji Lai Mohammed, has condoled with the family, friends and fans of the late highlife musician, Julius Aremu Olusanya Ekemode, popularly known as Orlando
Julius, saying his death robs the music industry of another trailblazing legend and the nation of another giant star.

In a statement issued in Lagos on Friday, the Minister described the late Orlando Julius as an all-rounder in his field, noting that he made his mark as a singer, song writer, saxophonist and performer.

”Despite a larger than life image, he remained a decent gentleman and a good family man. His passion for music was unparalleled, hence he excelled in his chosen field.

”By dint of hard work, he and others like him laid the foundation and helped to nurture Afrobeat to global prominence,” he said, adding:


”It was therefore most fitting that he lived long enough to witness the moment in which Nigerian music has taken the world by storm.”

Alhaji Mohammed urged the family of the late music legend to take solace in the good and remarkable life of their patriarch, and prayed for repose to the soul of the departed.