By Olanike Fagbule, Chiagoziem Onyekwena and George Anifowose
The team at Nigerian Entertainment Today chronicles the major events, people, places and things that defined the outgoing year… and there is more to look forward to in 2010….
- 234 Next– 365 days ago, many would have put their money on it that 234 Next – the ambitious newspaper project embarked upon by Dele Olojede’s Timbuktu Media – stood little chances of survival. But today, the paper has not only survived initial skepticism; NEXT is redefining the practice of journalism in Nigeria, rising from an uncertain weekly paper to become one of the biggest dailies in the country; breaking the biggest business and political stories first and giving many something fresh and exciting to talk about.
- 2face- Not one to be bothered by the media’s persistent curiosity about his (very public) private life, 2face Idibia continued in his quest to maintain his position as Nigeria’s ultimate king of Pop. He signed a management deal with Now Muzik, attempted to put his PR team in order, and got us all talking about his newly found charisma on stage. It was not long until tongues started wagging about his plans to release an international album in the first quarter of 2010.
- 9ice- More than12 months after he strolled into the millionaires club, he signed five artistes into Alapomeji records and his third album “Tradition” became one of the most anticipated albums of 2009. But Mr. Akande still maintained his stance as one of the most sought after Entertainer and performers of 2009.
- Adaeze Igwe and Joseph Yobo– This is one romance we were not expecting or maybe we were probably not looking closely enough; but if there is one thing 2009 has taught us, it’s that “Anything can happen”.
- AGN- The Actors Guild of Nigeria met with a lot of controversies this year. The power tussle between major actors became hot that the media could not ignore. And with the appointment of Segun Arinze in November 2009, we were positive that the crisis had ended, but Emeka Ike’s appointment in December 2009 proved us wrong, leaving the AGN with two presidents.
- African China- This year, the dancehall cat tried to make a comeback, with the release of his album “The Return of the Legend” in August 2009, and we were almost certain that he was back for good, but unfortunately only “No time” featuring Faze found its way to mainstream.
- African Magic- One of the most watched station by Nigerians on DSTV, African Magic since its debut in 2003 immediately became a favorite amongst Nigerians home and abroad keen on keeping up with Nigerian movies. And even though many are quick to tag African Magic “Exploiters of Nollywood” walk into an office, Salon or eatery and tell me what station everyone is watching…..
- Abuja- The capital city played host to a number of Entertainment industry events this year, ranging from Hip hop world awards to Celebrity Face Off to live all the way to the launch of Jim Iyke’s failed debut album.
- Alaba- The notorious Alaba market consolidated its hold on the country’s distribution, and continued its threat to the Nigerian Music system. Marketers began stating what collaborations they wanted on an album and the date they wanted an album to be released.
- Alexander Amosu- Designer to the rich and famous, Mr Amosu upped his game in 2009 when he was named Creator of the world’s most expensive suit by World’s Guinness book of records.
- Ali Baba- The king of Comedy made public his intentions to leave standup Comedy to face “other things” days before his 44th birthday in June 2009. But in November 2009, he unveiled plans to reestablish his relevance stating that he no longer intended to leave standup for Mc-ing anymore. An elaborate 20 years on stage awaits the King of Comedy in June 2010….
- All You Ever Need In Entertainment- For many years, it was clouded in Shadows the hand behind a lot of PR strategies and techniques of a lot of Nigerian artistes and record labels. But in February 2009, the search came to a halt when premier showbiz publicists and Entertainment news content providers All You Ever Need in Entertainment Limited threw an exclusive birthday bash for one of their most prized clients Darey Art Alade. They have since been traced to successful publicity campaigns for the likes of 9ice, Etcetera, OD, Lagbaja, Weird Mc, Alexander Amosu, Darey, Kel, Hiphopworld Awards, Kennis Music, Mtrill, Hman, Nayo, T.W.O and many more.
- AMAA- Believe their judgment or not, the fact still remains that the African Movie Academy Awards is the biggest movie awards in Africa right now. 2009 saw the movie awards expand into other African countries and as is the custom since the award debuted in 2005, deserving actors were honored….
- Amplified Crew- The trio of B Easy, Moyo and DJ T&T thought 2009 was the year to quit their promising music career to face other aspects of life. B Easy moved on to market fast rising technology company VEDA, while Moyo joined the rebranding Nigeria project in Abuja. It is uncertain what the last member of the group is up to in United States.
- Anniversaries- Not sure if it will be wrong to categorically state 2009 as the year of Anniversaries, whatever the case, the fact still remains that this year a lot of industry actors either celebrated their 10th year or 25th year on stage. Industry players like Funlola Aofiyebi, 2face, Alariwo, Art Quake, Sammy Okposo, Tony Tetula and Pasuma grabbed the headlines for celebrating their anniversaries in 2009.
- Art quake- Last year, it looked like it was time for Art quake to resign as nothing was forthcoming for the duo career- wise, but this year started on a rather high note for the struggling duo, and even though they got no critical or commercial acclaim, let’s give it to them for making the Alanta dance popular.
- Arthur Guinness Day– September 24 will forever linger in the minds of friends and fans of the Guinness brand as it marked the brand’s 250th year in existence. As part of their celebration hip hop act Sean Kingston performed on the same stage with Nigerian acts like MI, Psquare, Wande Coal, Dbanj and a host of others, and was it not at the same event Psquare pulled a kanye? Most definitely…..
- Asa- You may be quick to ask what she did this year? but Soul Singer Asa despite her absence in Nigeria grabbed the headline for various reasons this year. Ranging from her rumored deal with Telecommunications Company Etisalat to her plans to release a second album all the way to her grand deal with Guarantee Trust Bank. Out of sight is not out of mind… You might have to agree
- Ashionye We were almost certain that Ashionye had nothing more to offer, and that the Girl Power Initiative (which debuted in march 2007) had become history. But Ashionye and her team at Orangotaan soon made known their plans for a second edition which featured female acts Nikki Laoye, Ashionye, Mo cheddah and BB. She also shocked us all when she tied the knots with Orangotaan boss Carl Raccah on August 29, 2009.
- AY– Truth be told, we were not sure if Comedian AY had anymore to offer in 2009 than he has done the year before, but the former PA to the King of Comedy Ali Baba proved us all wrong. His annual AY live show was held in several states of the Country including Lagos and Abuja; he revamped his TV show, and even tried his hands on radio…
- Babatunde Fashola- Like Bola Ahmed Tinubu before him, Mr. Fashola is an Entertainment Enthusiast; and a proud one at that. No, it is not just because he identifies with Dbanj and 9ice and K1 and different movie projects; his policies on tourism, Arts and entertainment speak volume of his devotion to the sector. But, can someone please tell His Excellency that we need the Lagos Sunburn Yacht up and running?
- Baba Suwe- ‘‘Baba Suwe’s wife; Moladun is dead’’ the tabloids screamed on the first day of the ninth month of 2009. And while the A-List actor-comedian Babatunde Omidina mourned his wife and accepted condolences, he was also battling and threatening to sue tabloids and press charges against publisher Wole Arisekola for insisting that he killed his wife. Seven weeks after, he narrowly escaped death following an auto crash in Idi Iroko on his way to a film location with his brother.
- Banky W– The year did not start on a good note for ladies man Bankole Wellington, or how else do you explain him singing to a bunch of armed men who eventually went away with some of his possessions on the eve of the New year? But the months that followed were fruitful for the American returnee. He hosted Hiphopworld awards (the biggest and most authoritative awards in Nigeria), where he was named best male vocal talent, and even though he didn’t play most major shows of 2009 or make it to the class of A list artistes, he sure left his foot print in the minds of his fans. 2009 was the year of his ‘confrontation’ with respected columnist Reuben Abati. He also released one of his videos “Strong ting” in September and his second album “The W experience” in December. His label EME also signed two new talented acts “Wiz Kid” and “Skales”.
- Barack Obama- America’s first black president and 44th president snuck into our industry this year, and like winning a Nobel Prize in October 2009 was not enough, respected Magazine GQ named him “Leader of the year. Not forgetting Obama’s outburst about Kanye being a Jackass on September 15, 2009.
- Basket Mouth– There is no excuse for not seeing one of Nigeria’s most talented Comedians in action this year, and even though he didn’t grab the headlines for having a baby or dedicating his new house like he did last year, the gifted stand-up act went on to host one of the biggest Comedy shows in Nigeria “Basket mouth Uncensored” on September 27, 2009, and although he lost his father the following month, the Graduate of University of Benin got us all laughing and Entertained all year round.
- BBA Revolution- Big Brother Africa returned in 2009. Tagged “The revolution”, the most popular reality TV in Africa hit the screens on September 6, 2009, but unlike previous years, there was no “Shower time” or any form of nudity. 24 contestants from the nooks and Crannies of African countries. After 91 days, Nigerian born Kelvin Chuwang emerged winner.
- Beat FM- Cool down Cool FM, inch aside inspiration FM, right now, we’re rocking to The beat! Since the FM station went live in May 2009, many music fans immediately dropped their loyalty to other radio stations and became ardent listeners of The Beat 99.9 FM, and with OAPs like Oreka, Olisa Adibua, Toolz and Gbemi, what more can we ask for?
- Bella Naija– it took a while before we could put a face to this famous blogger- when True Love ‘blew her cover’ in 2008. In 2009, the 25 Year old blogger continued to give keen readers something to talk about and raising the standards of her website thereby making it a big deal for celebs and artistes to want to be featured on her site.
- Beyonce- More videos, award nominations, movie roles, more fans, envy amongst the female fans, multiple awards, album release, parents separation and Copyright Court cases……. must I say more? 2009 was surely Pop singer Beyonce’s year
- Bigiano- Former member of Triple B, Bigiano started this year with a lot of enthusiasm and on a good note, but the NBC pressed the stop button when they banned his hit single “Shayo” in the first quarter of 2009, but that didn’t stop him from winning two awards at this year’s SMVA and bagging a nomination at the MAMAs.
- Blackberry- There’s no doubt that the Blackberry was the most revolutionary mobile business and play tool of 2009. A lot of Entertainers rocked the Blackberry this year. The question “What is your number” was replaced with “Please give me your BB pin” …..
- Black tie Events- the most popular of the Black tie gig that held in Lagos Nigeria this year was one that Soft Rock singer Etcetera and his team at X3M Music put together in June 2009 and even though a few other industry events were not strict about dress codes, a lot of males celebrities rocked the red carpet dressed as if they were attending a black tie gig.
- Blogs/ Entertainment websites– This year, Entertainment websites and blogs became more popular in Nigeria, and while old timers like Niyitabiti, Bellanaija, Strictlynaija, Sturvs, Linda Ikeji and a few others continued to up the ante, others like Gidinoize, Questionmarkmag, Sheifunmi, started emerging strongly, making true the statement “The sky is wide enough for people to fly” – probably the web in this case
- Bolanle Okhiria- when Dbanj announced his plans to start up a reality show “Koko Mansion” in June, people were quick to accuse the sex icon of looking for a wife, but after seven weeks, 21 year old undergraduate of Lagos State University Bolanle Okhiria emerged winner with a brand new car, five million Naira and a Chris Aire diamond ring. She also accompanied Dbanj for the shoot of “fall in Love” video in November. So much for being his official date for a period of one year as promised before the show kicked off as we haven’t seen Miss Okhiria by his side all year, it looks like the closest she’d be getting to him is in the Video….. .
- Bouqui- Rapper Bouqui did not eventually make public her “Secret International deal”. Instead her second album “The Redefinition” was released under her label- Bouqui’s place. The rapper shocked us with the release of a love song “ Luv you forever”, but she spent most of her time outside the country touring Churches and spreading the good news through music….
- Bracket- Let’s be fair, not a lot of us gave this group a chance when they released their first single “Happy Day’ some years back. But with the release of “Yori Yori”, we immediately embraced them. After the release of their album “Least expected”, all thoughts about them being a flash in the pan was thrown in the trash bin as the album spurned lovable and party songs like “Ada Owerri” and “No time”.
- Brazilian hair- if you’re a lady and didn’t get involved in the “Brazilian hair craze”, then you are either ‘two-thousand-and-late’, or you’re just not all that into fashion. A lot of ladies’ investments went into Brazilian hair this year. The hair extension which initially was between N70,000 and N80,000 (You have to use between two and three) was finally out fashioned with the coming of the Lace wig. Female Celebrities were not left out in the fashion; artistes like Lara George and Sasha rocked it at the 2009 Hiphop world awards while Funke Akindele had it on in a number of movies she starred in.
- Break ups- the year started with the sour break up of Alec Godwin and Kefee’s wedding, and just when we thought we had heard enough, Queen Ure and Soul E followed, 2face Idibia parted ways with Sumbo Ajaba and Pero Adeniyi, two of his baby mamas. Outside the country, Nas and Kelis ,Tina and Matthew Knowles (Beyonce’s parents) were also top on the 2009 breakup list.
- Brittany Murphy: She came, she saw but failed to conquer. Talented actress failed to reach the pinnacle of her acting career even when she was poised to do so. The promising 8th mile movie star was cut short at the prime age of 32 on December 20 after collapsing in her bathroom. She starred in movies like 8th mile with Eminen (2003), teen comedy Clueless (1995) and Just Married (2003), as well as indie films like Riding in Cars with Boys (2001) and Sin City (2005) that weren’t box office smashes but were nevertheless critically acclaimed
- Calabar Festival- The event got us all waiting for Singer Keri Hilson and the revisit of Wyclef on our shores. Nigerians all over the world travelled from their base to be a part the event.
- Caliente– if you are a party animal and you didn’t rock Caliente this year, then you need to do that before the year runs out. The club even though labeled “A gay club” acted as a point of socializing amongst Nigerian entertainers and industry enthusiasts in 2009. In fact it has been rumored that a lot of deals were sealed at Caliente.
- Cally Ikpe- Entrepreneur and Veteran Cally Ikpe made a statement this year that “With Passion, a lot can be done” and many who frowned on the 2008 edition of the NMVA, immediately embraced the successful outing of the 2009 edition, and all congratulations were tied not only to Callivision Network, but also to the founder Cally Ikpe….
- Caroline Johnson- Actress Caroline Johnson who was down with Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia received a whole lot of support from the media and fans this past year, but death was quick to play a fast one on her on Wednesday, December 16, 2009.
- Celebrity Babies- Eldee the Don, Sokleva, Julius Agwu, Howie T, and Sound Sultan gave the industry Celebrity babies
- Celebrity takes 2– Celebrity takes 2 returned in 2009. This year’s edition unlike the 2007 edition was a clash of the music industry and the Nollywood industry as stars from these two worlds met to for 13 weeks.
- Centage Superstar- Talent hunt Centage Superstar crept into the 2009 Entertainment industry’s diary in June with its official unveiling at the Civic Centre on June 12. The winner of Centage Superstar is expected to be announced in March 2010.
- Compact Disc- The Compact disc for whatever use shaped the Entertainment scene in Nigeria especially the Music scene, and whatever way you choose to look at it, it was most of the time a case of talent- exploiter- the vendors- the users. Go figure- so sure Terry tha rap man’s ‘Sample’ can be a first point of research.
- Cora Hip hop Conference– The first edition of the hip hop conference was unveiled this year at the National theatre; the event was moderated by Top Radio’s Tosyn Bucknor, Wazobia FM’s Yaw and Chris Ihidero. The event which held on July 26, 2009 provided a cross section platform for scholars, Musicians and journalists in the music industry.
- Channel O Awards- Like last year, Nigerians ruled yet again at the 2009 Channel O awards in South Africa. Four Nigerians (Naeto C, Darey, Ikechukwu and Sasha) came back home with a total of five top prizes.
- Charly Boy- Even though the change of name from Charly Boy to Charly man we expected this year didn’t happen, Charly Boy made a loud but unfruitful return to the Nigerian music scene this year. In November 2009, he and Dr. Alban announced a collaboration album “The Big hit”, and even though their performance at the Nigerian Music Video Awards was not Wow, it definitely caught the audience’s attention.
- Chris Brown– Chris Brown is not the same teenager from the “Kiss Kiss” days, and even though he tried to prove it with the relationship with Rihanna last year, he finally made us realize it with the February 7, 2009 incident. News of his assault on Rihanna spread like wild fire, and the weeks that followed was not a nice one for the 19 year old.|
- Chimamanda Ngozi-Adichie– The award winning author continued from where she stopped last year; publishing her third book. “The thing around your neck”-a short story collection, and, expectedly earning rare reviews in local and international literary circles.
- Chimuanaya Aroma Ufodike- In September 2009, a certain man made history by being the first to make 10 million Naira in the MTN Sponsored “Who wants to be a Millionaire”. He goes by the name Chimuanya Aroma Ufodike.
- Chocolate City- MI repped Choc City last year, and just when we thought he was all the record label had to offer, they introduced us to two brilliant rappers Jesse Jags and Ice Prince. The label also threw a party for MI after winning at the MAMAs this year.
- Cinemas- The Cinema was an integral part of 2009 as a whole number of artistes, actors and movie lovers trooped into various Cinemas to catch different movies. New cinema Genesis debuted this year, and while Movie premier dates became something to reckon with in 2009, a whole lot of Nollywood movies also found their ways to the Cinemas.
- City People– Soft Sell Magazine City People not only ruled the streets in 2009, but became a reference point amongst musicians and gossip lovers. The quote “The fear of City People is the beginning of wisdom” became very popular this year, as the soft Sell Journal acted as a gate keeper for celebs who were about to stray….
- Clarence Peters- Director Clarence Peters received knocks last year for being “an indoor cinematographer”, but this year, he got us all talking about brilliant videos from him. From Kel’s “Too fine” to Roof top MC’s “For my Life” all the way to Ill Bliss’ “Aye Po gan”. He even shot the video for The Pulse’s “Sote” Remix featuring Busta Rhymes His label Capital hills succeeded in releasing one of Nigeria’s most anticipated albums of the year “The Investment”
- Cobhams Asuquo– The visually-impaired song-writer, producer and singer continued to show us that he is indeed not handicapped. He continued producing hit songs and even surpassed the standards he set for himself in the past year. Banky W’s Strong tin is presently a favorite amongst Nigerians, Darey Art Alade’s “No stars” wells up emotions from deep down, all thanks to the standard production from Cobhams.
- Controversies- if a poll is taken as to who had the highest controversy this year, there is no doubt that all fingers will point at the Okoye twins “Psquare” and Timaya The brothers were in the bad books of Journalists this year as they dwelled on their bad aspect. From their Landlord issue to their outburst at the Arthur Guinness show. Cyrus the Virus was not left behind as he was also reported to have embezzled some amount from his record label “Lizzy Records”. 2009 Controversies will not be complete if Timaya is not involved, the dancehall singer’s detention after disrupting the church service at Empress Njamah’s Church (Praise Resurrection Ministries a.k.a Jehovah Sharp sharp) was probably the last straw that broke the camel’s back, but a keen observer in the Nigerian Music industry will tell you that it started since his awards speech at the 2009 Hiphopworld awards in May 2009. He probably over did as 90’s Superstar- Nico Gravity directed two diss tracks to Timaya.
- Comedian Artistes- In the previous years, it was a case of shift from Nollywood to Music, and while a lot of Nollywood acts who tried to come into Music never really succeeded, it appears this year was for Comedians as singles from Comedians like Owen G, Koffi, Omo Baba and Jedi hit our airwaves.
- Crack ya Ribs– This year, annual event “Crack ya Ribs” held in London, Lagos and Port Harcourt.
- C Ronaldo- Good looks, enviable skills and natural charisma made this soccer prodigy stand head and shoulders above his peers in 2009. After posting a return of 42 goals for Man United in the 2007/08 season on their way to scooping some of the grand prizes (English premiership,Uefa champions league and world club championship) in football, the Portuguese made the record-breaking switch to Spanish giants Real Madrid for a staggering 80 million pounds
- Cupid’s Ball- Celebrity Couple Tunde and Wunmi Obe returned this year with their annual lover’s gig- “Cupid Ball”, but this year, it was a different ball all together. tagged ‘Sleek, Sassy and sailing’, the 2009 Cupid’s Ball was held aboard The Nire Prest Cruise Liner
- Cyrus da Virus- The Benin based act continued thrilling his fans this year, but got involved in a case of embezzlement with former Label- Lizzy Records in the second quarter of the year. Even though Cyrus claims it is not true, we cannot but wonder from where the rumor surfaced
- D Banj- With his characteristic sex themes and libido braggadocio, the charming singer continued his pact with female fans this year. And, to show he was here to leave an impact long after he was gone, he was named best African act at the second MTV Africa music awards, making it the third time in a roll he’s been named “The Best African act” by MTV since 2007
- Daarsat- Nigeria’s satellite Pay TV platform offering service in Nigeria went live in October 2008, and more than 12 months after, Daarsat is making progress, and recording some level of acceptance in homes, offices and viewing centers around Nigeria
- Dagrin– His first album “Still on the matter” surely did not leave an impression except that he was another rapper spitting in Yoruba, but year 2009, had a lot in stock for the 26 year old rapper. His second album CEO (Chief Executive Omoita) has got the girls and the streets loving Dagrin.
- Dakore Egbuson- Miss Egbuson has always made her intention to go back into Music clear, and 2009 was the year she decided it was about time. She released her first music video “Don’t make me” in June. And although many insinuate that her relationship with Olumide Akande was in trouble, the couple appear to be forging ahead.
- Dan Foster- The American broadcaster was reportedly deported in April 2009 due to immigration irregularrities, but three weeks after, he resurfaced in the country to continue with his job as the Head of Broadcasting and programmes and host of the Breakfast belt as well as the Sunday Gospel Show on Inspiration FM. He welcomed his daughter “Daniella” in January 2009. .
- Darey Art Alade- 2009 was the year Darey took his game to the Zenith. With a critically acclaimed RNB Soul album, a string of refreshing big budget videos and total image overhaul, the Soul Muzik act brought back the R to R&B and made serious musicianship fashionable in an industry where many are searching for short cuts.. Mr. Alade secured HHWA and MAMA nominations, kicked off work on his US album and gave wannabes a chance to get their voices heard through ‘The most unDAREYted show’, and it all paid off when he amassed a total of seven awards (Channel O, NMVA and SMVA) for the year 2009
- David Letterman- The American TV host when blackmailed in October 2009 took it upon himself to confess that he actually had affairs with a number of his staffers including his Personal Assistant- 34 year old Stephanie Birkitt” an act that resulted in him being thrown out of the house by his wife in November
- Death- Mama Ekundayo, Omoladun, Mama Ajasco, Nicholas Anukanti, Steve Kadiri, Michael Jackson, Farrell Fawcett and Brittany Murphy all fell prey to the cold hands of death this year.
- Debut albums– 2009 was a year of first albums, as artistes like Wande Coal, Kel, Djinee and Omawumi dished out their first body of works, and flooded the streets and stores with them, thereby lighting a way for those coming behind.
- Denrele Edun– The king of the red carpet sure got a lot of recommendations this year, and as if playing host at the City People Entertainment Awards in Ogun State was not enough, Denrele continued to become a favorite of Celebrities on the red carpet. Simply put, if you leave the red carpet without Denrele interviewing you, then you never came to the event. Se finis
- Diss Tracks– Things got heated or may I say interesting in the Nigerian music scene when various diss tracks started to find their way into the Nigerian Music scene, and although some like Kelly Hansome’s “Igwe Kom kom” (directed at Mo hits all stars and Terry G) never found its way into main stream media, other songs like MI’s Somebody wants to die (Directed at Slim Iceberg) and Nico Gravity’s “I wan Finish Timaya” (Directed at Timaya) immediately became a favorite amongst OAPs in Lagos.
- Doctor Alban- His plan to collaborate with D banj never saw the light of day, and instead of letting sleeping dogs lie, the 90s star went all out to express his anger. He eventually released a number of songs and made known his plans to release a collaboration album with his Cousin- Charly Boy
- Dormant Acts– In as much as a lot of albums made it to the stand this year, a lot of celebrities got awards nominations, it will be wrong to say that a number of celebrities where not dormant this year. If you doubt, then names like Kween, Kemistry, Azadus, Weird MC and Zeal may change your mind.
- Dr. Frabs – 2009 was an interesting one for Dokta Frabz. The talented beat maker got some much needed exposure by featuring in the Hennessey Artistry Search and even though Frabz didn’t win the competition, the event afforded him the perfect opportunity to introduce his record label N’sayne Entertainment and its flagship artiste, Jimmy. Then Frabz took the decision to dabble into music, collaborating with Naeto C on his very own single Cry For You. However, in a busy ’09, it’s good to know Frabz didn’t neglect his day job and thus far, his main pay job. The music Dokta produced some of 2009 finest songs, including Naeto C’s Ako Mi Ti Poju and his girlfriend Omawumi’s Today Na Today.
- DJ Jimmy JATT- Veteran Cool DJ Jimmy Jatt has remained one of the most relevant players in the Nigerian music business. And since starting his own TV show ‘Jimmy’s Jump off’; and the release of his historic mixtape, Jimmy has taken his game to an unprecedented level raising the bar sky high for other jockeys coming behind.
- Don Jazzy- It was business as usual over at the Mo Hit’s Offices. The house the self-anointed No.1 African Hit-Maker is building shows no sign of falling and construction, work hasn’t slowed down one bit. Don Jazzy’s already crowded catalogue of hits had to make room for some more as his Mo Hits artistes, Wande Coal and Dr. Sid lit up the charts in 2009.
- Don’t forget the lyrics– TV game shows in Nigeria come a dime a dozen, and the creativity and novelty of the family rated program continues to diminish with each passing show. Enter Don’t forget the lyrics, a show quite unlike anything Nigerians have seen before. Having premiered on the American channel FOX in July, 2007, the singing game show made its way to Nigeria in late 2008 and blossomed into one of the most followed TV programs by households around the country. The concept is pretty simple, the anchor Kamal Salau comes around every once in a while to give away 20 million but only if the lucky chosen Zain subscriber can recite the lyrics to 10 popular songs.
- Dooshima– The precocious radio talent who wormed her way into the hearts of Abuja folks with her laid back spontaneous and amiable demeanor raised a few eyebrows when she left the relative safety of the Cool FM offices to chart relatively unknown waters at start up radio station, Kiss 99.9FM. However, the gamble seems to be paying off well for Baby Doosh as now more than ever
- DSTV- 2009 was the year DSTV Nigeria faced probably the stiffest opposition. All of a sudden, Nigerian television viewers have a broader choice of indigenous service providers to choose from and they all have one advantage over DSTV, and that’s their pricing. But they say what an old man sees when sitting, young boys can never see while standing up. Try as they may, the competition seemed to lack one key component DSTV has put a choke hold on and that is content. Despite losing the English premier league license for the second time in a row, they have a wealth of programming and exclusive channel franchises to call for backup..
- Drinks. (Hennessey, Ace of spade, Champagne)- Most Nigerian lyrics are incomplete without them, videos can’t be shot without at least one of them in attendance; 2009 was definitely a good year for our corked friends but more so, for the men and women that make a living trading them. Nigerians’ penchant for the good life is legendary and whether there were fuel queues the length of the Niger in our cities or we had darkness as permanent visitors in our living rooms, whether we were mourning the death of national icons or wondering whether our beloved President would join them soon, one thing is for sure – all is forgotten when a toast is raised and we drink away our collective sorrows, as we wave our problems a very drowsy goodbye.
- E!- The E! Channel is the world’s numero uno source for all things Hollywood on the television. The success of E! lies in their thorough investigative entertainment journalism, refusal to tow the line of tabloids and sensationalize and/or fabricate the news and most importantly, their world class, ever-evolving program content. So let’s see, we have the always touching True Life Stories, you have your constant dose of new Reality Shows and you can’t miss those numerous lists of everything and anything under the Hollywood sun. E! has become a part of our lives
- E-punch – If you want to know what’s hot in the entertainment industry and what’s not, you have a taste for up-to date, informative, precise and informative entertainment gist then there’s one newspaper you should purchase-Punch. The Friday entertainment section of the newspaper has made it one of the most read and a must-get for music buffs every week.
- Eedris Abdulkareem- The proverbial prodigal son of Nigerian music may not exactly have had the triumphant return he was hoping for in 2008, but the ex-Remedies’ star has refused to relent. 2009 saw Mr. Abdulkareem make cameos on some high profile albums, including Sunny Neji’s. But perhaps the singular most important event of Eedris’ 2009 was the embattled emcees reported return to Kennis Music in November 2009. Will this reunion finally give birth to Eedris’ heralded second coming or will the pregnancy tragically end in complications? These are only questions 2010 can answer.
- Edi Lawani- He was behind major stages and lighting for both national and international event staged all over the contrary ranging from Hip Hop World Awards, Soundcity Music Video Awards, Nigerian Music Video Awards and the The Star Mega Jam…
- Ejike Asiegbu– When he was appointed the interim head of the AGN (actors guild of Nigeria) for six month, colleagues and stakeholders had no idea he had other intentions. After six months, he allegedly refused to step down even at the condemnation of stakeholders and practitioners. He however handed over to Segun Arinze in controversial circumstances in November……
- Efe Omorogbe– Head honcho of Now Music sure got his groove back this year, his label signed on pop star 2 face Idibia; he spear headed the anti piracy campaign and hunger strike, pushed forward the formation of Association of Music Business professionals and joined other stakeholders to inaugurate the Copyright Society of Nigeria ….
- El Dee- Success for this Hip Hop veteran extended the realms of entertainment and spilled over to his personal life with the blessing of a daughter born to himself and his wife Dolapo on November 17. 2009 was also the year he fully reclaimed his exalted position in Nigerian music after a relatively lengthy sojourn in the States. eLDee is set to solidify his presence on the scene with the upcoming release of his double CD mix-tape Is it your money?
- Emem Isong- Producer Emem Isong was at her best this year, dishing out two of the most acclaimed block busters of 2009 – Guilty Pleasure and Nollywood hustlers.
- Encomium-Nigeria’s most respected soft-sell journal lived up to expectation. Continuing from where they left off in 2008-breaking the latest entertainment gossips and staying on top as far as celebrity journalism and A list events are concerned.
- Etcetera-The talented soft rock artiste started the year on a bright note by winning the recording of the year at the Hip-hop world award. He also threw the music industry’s first black tie event on Sunday, June 14, 2009.
- Eucharia Anunobi- Actress Eucharia Anunobi got separated from her husband ‘Charles Ekwu’ this year, and she spent most of her time shuttling between the Court room and movie locations. The case was adjourned till February 2010
- Facebook- Mark Zuckerberg is a genius; he has created the most useful social utility tool for not only Nigerians, but the entire world. In Nigeria, Facebook is the second most visited website after Yahoo and yes, ahead of the almighty Google. In spite of the popularity of twitter, the websites strangle hold on the Nigerian market shows no sign of waning anytime soon, still the most widely preferred social networking site.
- Face Off- Play center certainly has a winner in the Face Off series which they started in 2008 and continued in 2009 in Abuja. The celebrity Basketball was a success and was well attended by celebrities like 2 face Idibia, 9ice, Darey, Psquare, Banky W and Wande Coal and the organizers pulled a major coup by arousing the interest of the notoriously event-shy Abuja crowd and pulling them to the venue.
- Farrah Fawcett– 2009 was a year of numerous losses in the world of entertainment and even though the sudden death of Michael Jackson may have overshadowed any other obituary in 2009, Hollywood cried the day actress and seventies’ sex symbol Farrah Fawcett finally lost her long drawn out battle with anal cancer on June 25. Farrah Fawcett was 62 at the time of her death.
- Femi Adebayo- this man gave credence to the saying: like father like son. Posting great performances in movies all through the year (the best being Apada 1&2) and in the process becoming one of the most sought after Yoruba movie actors. But his blossoming career wasn’t without blemish as he got separated from his wife and tongues soon started wagging about a romance between him and actress Funke Akindele.
- Femi Kuti- Son of Legendary Afro beat Pacesetter- Fela was very busy this year, a few months after the release of his album ‘Day by Day’, he toured the US with his band – ‘The Positive force band ’. He received his second Grammy awards nominations in category of the ‘Best Contemporary World Music’
22 comments
this is a very nice review/ article but i have to say this: the term ‘half caste’ is offensive and no more acceptable……above all, keep it up my favourite naija website…
Momoh Kubanji’s name nko, a while Momoh Kubanji…ah? Also there are some names i thought i would see that have worked hard this year: Mocheddah (made True Love conver and great singles, naija’s fast rising diva), Objazz (two great singles on radio, exceptional baritone, awesome respected lyricist), Ice Prince (won Hennesy artistry, awesome lyricist, great swag), Silverbird (opened up 4 new stations satisfyin customers around the country), Lady Gaga went gaga on so many issues didn’t she? also the half-caste thing no work again na. Anyways nice work and great site.
chia u just seem to get beta and beta.big ups man i have faith in u ooo.chase d dream!safe
I don’t know what u mean by half caste not being acceptable ooh. Its in d dictionary and its acceptable. Its a stiff list even though its 300 @ kunle.. Maybe objazz, iceprince and Mocheddah will make it to 65 to watch out for. I totally love this site.. The layout of this story makes me want to read it more sef. I read one to 300 in 30mins. Very interesting read.. Thompson, who be chia?
I'm loving this site
Kunle abeg help us tell am..but no matter what nice one..
where is the new year special? i have been waiting before i drop my comment on this one
I’m fast loving this site! This is good! appreciate the work that was put into it. Wish you the very best guys. Ive just started my entertainment website too so your observation on blogs and websites was right on the money.www.nollywooduncut.com check it out for your fix on nollywood and all its happenings!
great work guys…keep it up!
still waiting on the new year review guys
This is really nice o. Keep it up guys
Nice article!!!!!!!!
The WEB is really big enough for us all to fly! lol
I knew a lot would be missing, like others mentioned, where is Mo'chedda, Knighthouse, one management even though several projects they are involved in are mentioned, ramsey noah's co-star in guilty pleasures and rising nollywood actress Nse Etim. Please wake up.
very well compiled big ups to the All You Ever Need In Entertainment team!
Now THAT'S what I call an insightful position on things. What I would advise though is talking to other people involved in the scene and bring to day any different points of view and then update or create a new article for us to stew over. I hope you'll take my ideas, I'm looking forward to it! Try to cover off on some graffiti characters as well if you can, they're everywhere at the moment.
Nice site you have here.
🙂
Hi, That was a good blog post thank very much for sharing this info with everybody.
Hi there, this is a very knowledgable post. Thanks a lot, you might like to check our website for trading stocks.
I loved as much as you will receive carried out right here. The sketch is tasteful, your authored subject matter stylish. nonetheless, you command get got an nervousness over that you wish be delivering the following. unwell unquestionably come further formerly again as exactly the same nearly a lot often inside case you shield this increase.
Keep working, splendid job!