The Nation Newspaper

Category: Entertainment

  • I am the only vibrant reggae musician in Africa –King Wadada

    I am the only vibrant reggae musician in Africa –King Wadada

    Ever since he surfaced in the Nigerian music scene with his runaway hit song, Holy, Holy, 18 years ago, reggae musician, song writer, Austin Peter who is popularly known as King Wadada has been waxing strong with his pure reggae tunes.

    With two albums to his credit and about to launch his latest effort, One Love, King Wadada who is also preparing for a tour of Europe, Canada and the USA with Miracle Day Music speaks with SAM ANOKAM about his career, why reggae music is not on  main stream music in Nigeria among other relevant issues.

    have out and about doing what I know how to do best. At the moment I am preparing to release my new album titled One Love. The album consists of 16 solid tracks.

    I have released two albums, Holy, Holy and If Men Were God. Now I am coming out with One Love album.

    At the same I am also preparing for my international music tour through Miracle Day Music. We would be touring UK, Europe, Canada and the USA. It promises to be interesting and action packed musically. We would be thrilling our fans with good reggae music.

    You have been in the music for 18 years and still waxing strong, how has the experience been?

    To be honest with you, it has really been a wonderful experience. The industry has been the matter of the survival of the fittest especially as it concerns reggae music. But we are still trudging on

    I tell you, it has been a mystery and every piece fits together to create whom we are, what we do, what we say and how we feel. In all, we thank God because HE has been faithful.

    How is the reggae genre faring currently in the music circle?

    Nothing is happening to reggae music. Reggae is what it is. It is on. It is one music genre that cannot die. It is only that the youth or the new breed artistes refuse to play it probably they think because it is not as lucrative as hip-hop as what is happening to the Nigerian music now where a lot of artiste are raking in millions from their genre of music. That makes some people keep saying that reggae music is dead, no music dies. All music is on and doing well in their categories.

    There is no reggae artist that have come on air with massive promotion and it refuses to become popular, not one.

    Suppose a reggae artist comes on the scene and gives his song massive publicity and the song didn’t make wave, then, you can say that reggae music is not working. But so far, none!

    The problem reggae music is facing is that it goes along with positive messages which the world needs now however, the youth do not want to hear those messages; radio station and TV stations that are supposed to play such songs do not play them instead they are feeding their audiences with one style of music which is not proper.  Then when it comes to music award events, they don’t put reggae into consideration.

    With all of these encumbrances, why are still playing reggae?

    A reggae artist will always be a reggae artist. It is not for the money or fame but the message and passion.  We cannot change from what we are originally are to something else because others are into it and making money. We have a calling to spread the message of love in our own way and we are doing it. We will continue to do it.

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    Reggae music must go on until the time to blow up the atmosphere with our songs and that time is now because when I drop this album, reggae music will take back its place in the music industry. It will rise again because I am the only one that can blow the horn of reggae music and the youth will follow and the media would have no choice but to help in propagating it.

    How do you feel with a lot of young ones releasing hiphop songs but very few are into reggae?

    I feel that they are playing their choice of music. In My latest album, I touched on every area of life. I even sang the mind of the youth in one of the tracks, ‘Yahoo.’

    I also did songs for the women folks. As much as I praised them, I also criticised them as necessary. When you hear the sons, you will understand. I also pleaded on their behalf to be given opportunity to express themselves especially in leadership. As usual, I praised God who is everything to me and mankind.

    You know why again, the young and up and coming artistes are not into reggae is because they have not really seen in their generation a successful reggae musician they can emulate. They are coming up at a time there was no reigning reggae musician or music or song making waves so, they embraced what they met or introduced to without knowing that there is another brand of music which they need to know that is far better than what they are playing. So, people like us need to blow as it were for them to believe that reggae music is king.

    What do you think is the future of reggae music in Nigeria?

    The future of reggae music in Nigeria is very bright

    Anytime any reggae artiste releases a hit that is widely promoted, every other one will start playing reggae.

    Then the media – radio and television stations including streaming platforms and other local stations needs to change their minds set towards reggae music.

    They should patronise all genre of music very well and equally and not only with one style of music.

    Once o am out with a hit and a good song that will be a national anthem , everyone will change their style.

    We have Rhythm and Blues, Hilife, Akpala, Fuji, Reggae among others, all these music genre have their fans and so should be considered in big award events.

    They should also nominate them in awards too

    They should have time for old artistes and the new alike as well as include them in concerts and awards.

    You said you are the only vibrant reggae musician in Africa, what about Orits Wiliki, Righteous Man, African China, Salem, Takana Zion, Thiecko,  Bongo Maffin and many others?

    These guys you mentioned are also good reggae artistes. They are all doing great in Africa with their projection of reggae music.

    I am only saying that I am the only vibrant reggae artiste in Africa currently. I am also the only one that can play the reggae of now and sing the minds of the people with reggae music.

    I don’t sing to the head, I sing to the heart and everyone has heart.

    How have you been able to stay off scandals?

    We don’t run away from scandals, though I have not been associated with it in anyway but I kind of like it. It builds and teaches at the same time. As I said earlier, every piece fits together to create and build whom were are, scandals to me are like a ladder to success.

    Lastly, what Legacy would King Wadada plans to leave?

    I love making people happy. I also love to worship God and obey His commandments as well as to make people have interest in the things of God when they listen to my music.

  • Naeomi’s Sonic Odyssey: Unveiling ‘Enchanting Desires’

    Naeomi’s Sonic Odyssey: Unveiling ‘Enchanting Desires’

    In the pulsating heartbeat of Nigeria’s diverse talents, emerges a luminary of unconventional artistry—Naeomi, the enchantress hailing from Abia State, whose musical endeavors redefine the very essence of creativity.

    Her latest masterpiece, “Enchanting Desires,” reverberates through the digital realms, standing tall among the recent musical symphonies echoing from the vibrant Nigerian landscape. Naeomi, an alchemist of sounds and emotions, weaves a tapestry of passion and vulnerability with her distinctive voice, captivating the soul of anyone who lends an ear.

    A poetic successor to her previous hit, “No Pressure,” “Enchanting Desires” unravels the whimsical yearnings of Naeomi’s heart. It’s an anthem that paints a vivid portrait of a woman craving love and affection, leaving the identity of her mysterious lover to the whimsical imagination of her audience.

    Yet, within the realms of Naeomi’s artistic universe, this desire is not merely a capricious whim but an earnest plea for an authentic connection.

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    Naeomi, a polymath in her own right, seamlessly navigates the worlds of music, modeling, and cinema. Her artistry, akin to a kaleidoscope of emotions, not only sets toes tapping but also imparts sagacity, showcasing the intricate dance of her youthful intellect. It’s this dynamic fusion that has garnered her a legion of admirers, both in the tangible world and the virtual spheres, where her social media following eclipses half a million.

    As the crowned ‘Miss Nigeria UK,’ Naeomi possesses an innate ability to sway hearts and minds, transcending the boundaries of conventional influence. Her engagement with the audience is a thoughtful dance, devoid of the moral vagabondage that often shadows the realms of stardom.

    With “Enchanting Desires” and the symphonic treasures yet to be unveiled by Naeomi, listeners are invited into a realm where the ordinary and extraordinary harmonize. Much like the artist herself, the song is a testament to a woman unyielding to external expectations—a celebration of authenticity in a world that often demands conformity.

  • 10 unmarried Nigerian celebrities at over 40

    10 unmarried Nigerian celebrities at over 40

    Man and woman relationships typically end in marriage, which is a wonderful blessing for all of humanity.

    Singleness, on the other hand, is circumstantial. It happens to people for all kinds of reasons: not being able to find a mate, death of a spouse, difficult family situations, medical or financial difficulties. The list goes on and on.

    As a society it is widely believed that the logical path of life is having one has been born, they must pursue a solid education, secure a good job and find love while at it. After which get married and have kids.

    And all those are expected to happen way before one clocks 40

    This is yet to be the path for some Nigerian stars. Whether by choice or not, these celebrities are over 40 years old and have never been married.

    Here are 10 Nigerian celebrities who are over 40 and not married:

    Denrele Edun (42 years)

    Adenrele Oluwafemi Edun has been in the film and TV industry since he was 11. He is best known as a television presenter. He has interviewed international celebrities, including Akon, Beyonce and Tyler Perry. He has won multiple awards for being a dynamic TV personality. He also acts occasionally, including starring in the 2014 film Make a Move.

    Frederick Leonard (43 years)

    Nollywood heartthrob and leading man, Frederick Leonard, is another man who has been the topic of many conversations.

    Many people wonder why the dashing young actor is still not married, but according to Frederick, he is waiting until he finds the one.

    Jim Iyke (47 years)

    Born James Ikechukwu Esomugha on September 25, 1976 in Libreville, Gabon, Jim Iyke is an actor and entrepreneur.

    Jim Iyke, who is well-known for his playboy roles in movies remains single although he welcomed his son, Harvis Chidubem Iyke with Dana Kinduryte from Lithuania in April, 2019.

    The 47- year- old even though he has engaged in a number of romantic relationships with actresses and non-actresses has never been married

    Nonso Diobi (47 years)

    Multiple award winning actor and film director, Nonso Diobi was July 17, 1976 in Enugu State.

    The Nollywood star who opened up in a chat with BBC Igbo revealed the reason he is yet to be married

    Nonso disclosed that talks about wife and girlfriend interest him but he’ll only have the woman he’s destined to.

    He noted he has come to the realisation that not everyone can be patient with actors like himself as they hardly have time; for they are always on the move from dusk to dawn

    Franca Brown (56 years)

    Born Franca Obianuju Brown on May 17, 1967 in Onitsha, Anambra State is a veteran Nollywood actress and movie producer who received recognition from her role in the TV series titled “Behind The Clouds.”

    She has noted her husband will come at the fullness of God’s time though a mother of one, is yet to be married.

    Tina Mba (56 years)

    Veteran actress was born on October 2, 1967 in Delta State but hails from Enugu State.

    She came to limelight for her role in “Everyday People” and boasts of other TV series such as Jemeji, Hotel Majestic, Desperate Housewives, Shadows and so on.

    Mba is one of the few actresses with excellent and evergreen performances.

    Tina, who acts in Yoruba and English movies, has remained a role model to some upcoming talents.

    Though a proud mother of 2 grown-up children: Tania and Joseph, Tina Mba has never been married and remains single.

    Osita Iheme (41 years)

    Osita Iheme has been a Nollywood star since his breakthrough in 2002. He is commonly known as Pawpaw after his breakout role in Aki na Ukwa (2002). He is half of the dynamic duo Aki and PawPaw, along with Chinedu Ikedieze.

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    In 2017, Iheme was rumoured to have married Ghanaian actress Nana Ama McBrown. The actor neither confirmed nor denied the rumours. McBrown has been married to Ghanaian entrepreneur Maxwell Mawu Mensah since 2016, and they have one child together.

    Uti Nwachukwu (41 years)

    Model, actor and TV presenter Uti Nwachukwu started his career on the Nigerian reality show, Next Movie Star. After finishing second, he joined Big Brother Africa season 3 and later Big Brother Africa: All Stars (season 5), emerging as the winner. He has over 30 acting credits and hosted Jara and The Real Housewives of Lagos Reunion. Uti is also an alternative rock musician.

    Nwachukwu has been adamant that he does not intend to “settle” with a woman. Instead, he plans to choose a partner when he feels the time is right. He emphasised that he does not owe the public access to his private life.

    Elvina Ibru (51 years)

    Elvina Esewvre Ibru is a actress and On Air Personality from Delta State. She is the daughter of industrialist Michael Ibru.

    Ibru worked for the British Broadcasting Corporation (BBC) as a broadcaster and also acted in theatre productions before returning to Nigeria. She was also an OAP at Classic FM where she hosted a weekly show called Mellow Magic

    Ibru has one son named Elisha. Elvina has said she is not interested in getting married and also would not let society pressure her into doing it because of her age.

    Baba Dee

    Born Dare Fasasi is multi-talented actor, songwriter and dance hall artist Baba Dee is one of the pioneer video directors that revolutionized the Nigerian music video industry.

    Baba Dee gained public recognition when he won the Lekki Sun Splash competition in 1995. He dropped his debut album, ‘Most Wanted’ in 1997 and has since gone on to garner international accolade.

    In 2014, he teamed up with his younger brother, Sound Sultan who is currently 44 to produce Naija Ninja’s award winning debut movie, ‘Head Gone,’ which featured 2face, Ali Baba, Eniola Badmus, Akpororo among others.

    Though a father to a son of mixed race but no news nor documentation to state he has ever been married yet still single.

  • I pray you find happiness, love within yourself – Ghanaian actress Nadia Buari tells ladies

    I pray you find happiness, love within yourself – Ghanaian actress Nadia Buari tells ladies

    Ghanaian actress, Nadia Buari, has shared an inspiring message to ladies who are at their lowest and feel unmotivated.

    The mother of four gave encouraging thoughts to women who are self-conscious and question if they are good enough.

    The movie star tells them that they are not only good enough, but also attractive and more than worthy.

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    She prayed for them to find happiness, serenity, and love inside themselves because they deserved it.

    She said: “To the girl that lays down in her bed every night wondering if she’s good enough… YOU ARE BABY GIRL.

    “You are beautiful and more than worthy. I pray you find happiness, peace & love within yourself. You deserve it ALL queen!.”

  • I cried most in 2012 – Ebuka Obi-Uchendu

    I cried most in 2012 – Ebuka Obi-Uchendu

    BBNaija celebrity host, Ebuka Obi-Uchendu, has revealed how 2012 was a year his mental health was affected badly adding that he cried the most that year in his entire existence.

    The former Big Brother Naija contestant, who many feel does not suffer any challenges, proved netizens incorrect, as the media star, like the average person, faces various mental fights.

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    When asked about his most difficult year with mental health, Ebuka Uchendu said that 2012 was his hardest.

    According to him, 2012 was the most difficult year of his life.

    He tweeted: “2012. Cried more in that year than my entire conscious life combined.”

  • Portable unwise, Young Duu will supersede you – Cater Efe

    Portable unwise, Young Duu will supersede you – Cater Efe

    Skit maker cum singer, Carter Efe, has continued to lambast Portable over allegations of stealing and ripping off his ex-signee, Young Duu.

    This comes after Carter Efe and Young Duu released a music single, “Oyinmo”, triggering portable to claim royalties on the song, saying that the ex-signee remains his property.

    Read Also: Nigeria, Ghana battle for $3,000 songwriting prize

    Reacting to the back-and-forth saga, Carter Efe slammed the singer for showing hatred on the progress of his ex-signee.

    In an Instagram live session, Carter railed against the Zeh Nation label boss while emphasising his hatred and bitterness for the progress of his ex-signee.

    “Since when Portable dey do song, e don do song with better producer? No be only that Zazu zeh wy he do that time wey be like say e scatter everywhere? Since then, e no get better song again.

    “E no wan make the boy shine; with your smelling habit come dey follow me dey talk. E dey post news say I be ripper; for your presence, Young Duu go buy mote take jam you. Portable no wise. Even the Zazuu song, an only Olamide give am stream,” he stated angrily.

  • GWR: Oyo Chef begins 200-hour marathon cooking

    GWR: Oyo Chef begins 200-hour marathon cooking

    In response to the announcement of Irish Chef Alan Fisher breaking the Guinness World Record (GWR) for the longest cooking hours by an individual, Chef Tope Maggie, who hails from Ogbomoso, Oyo, has embarked on an ambitious 200-hour cooking marathon with the goal of etching his name into the GWR history.

    Maggie, via an Instagram post on Thursday, November 9, officially declared his audacious cooking marathon attempt.

    Accompanying the announcement were numerous pictures and videos, with Maggie earnestly seeking support for his ambitious endeavour.

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    According to the details shared on a flyer, Tope’s cooking marathon is unfolding at the Ogbomoso Recreation Club, Ogbomoso.

    Tope, as captured in circulating videos, kicked off his audacious attempt on Thursday at 6 pm.

    The accompanying flier indicates that the chef has taken steps to seek the official approval of the Guinness World Records (GWR).

    The Nigerian aims to break the world record of Alan Fisher, the Irish chef, who cooked for 119 hours and 57 minutes.

    On November 7, the GWR certified Fisher as the record holder for the longest cooking marathon by an individual after he surpassed Nigerian chef Hilda Baci’s record of 93 hours and 11 minutes.

    The Irish chef also claimed the longest baking marathon (individual), with a time of 47 hours 21 minutes.

  • DJ Cuppy shares cryptic post on ex-lover

    DJ Cuppy shares cryptic post on ex-lover

    Popular Disc Jockey, Florence Otedola aka Cuppy has shared a cryptic post about close people turning into strangers.

    According to many, she was indirectly referring to her failed relationship with the former love of her life, Ryan Taylor.

    The Nation reported that Cuppy had met and fallen in love with a British boxer in 2022, they got engaged and everything was gearing up towards their getting married.

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    They had been into each other that the thought of their separation had felt absorbed and inconceivable.

    However, their separation left many netizens shocked and unhappy.

    The duo subsequently unfollowed each other on social media, further confirming their break up.

    Months after their separation, Cuppy has wondered how, despite everything, they had gone back to being just strangers.

    She wrote: “And after all this, we’ve gone back to being strangers.”

  • God’s healing power changed my life forever – Tems

    God’s healing power changed my life forever – Tems

    Grammy-winning singer, Temilade Openiyi, popularly known as Tems has bragged about how the saving grace and the power of healing changed and turned her life around for the better.

    The singer quoted a post by her manager on Twitter where he posted a throwback photo of both of them, alongside a recent photo.

    Her manager, Muyiwa Awoniyi, thanked God for his tender mercy as many people did not know what God delivered Tems from.

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    Many Nigerians have speculated his post is about the fact that Tems had no friends before she started music.

    However, Tems quoted the tweet saying; “Changed our lives forever. His healing power and His saving grace. They don’t know but are acting like they do. I can’t keep quiet about it!!.”

  • American presenter Darius Jackson reacts to wife’s restraining order on son

    American presenter Darius Jackson reacts to wife’s restraining order on son

    American television presenter Darius Jackson has finally reacted following his ex, actress Keke Palmer, restraining order against him and demanding sole custody of their 8-month-old son, Leodis.

    The thespian had, in court documents filed on Thursday, November 9, accused Jackson of abusing her multiple times throughout their two-year relationship.

    She claimed she had security footage of Jackson trespassing into her home, threatening, assaulting, and stealing her phone.

    Read Also: I apologise for assault on Ajaero – Uzodimma

    Palmer said their relationship “finally ended for good” in early October “primarily due to the physical and emotional abuse inflicted” on her by him.

    Meanwhile, Jackson has vowed to continue seeing their son despite Palmer filing a restraining order against him.

    He shared a picture of himself and their son, Leodis, on X with the caption, “I love you, son. See you soon.”