entertainment

Listen while you chat  Ayoba and MusicTime® are proud to announce their partnership to bring free music listening to ayoba users, with the launch of a new feature in the ayoba app titled MusicTime in ayoba. MusicTime® in ayoba [or MTiA] is now live in South Africa, Nigeria, Ghana, Cameroon, Rwanda, Uganda, Congo Brazzaville, Guinee, Guinee Bissau, Sudan, and Afghanistan. Each territory offers users free access to 10 playlists with 20 songs in each. In addition, the app has a new mini player that allows you to listen to music while you chat to your contacts with no interruption. Playlists are curated specifically for each territory, and always include music from the region as well. Users can subscribe [free] to the channel as per all ayoba channels, and numbers are rising quickly as users discover the new feature. An important feature of MTiA is the ability to listen to music with no data costs. Ayoba is zero rated for data in most of its markets via its partnership with MTN allowing MTN users to listen to a limited amount of music with no data costs. The MusicTime® channels also include editorial content, music video clips and artist polls. A major feature will be channels in partnership with artists, such as the newly launched Sark Nation channel, featuring top Ghanaian rapper, Sarkodie; currently available across Africa. Many more artist partnerships will be launched in the coming weeks. Ayoba has evolved significantly since its launch in 2019 as an instant messaging app. Users can now enjoy content in more than 50 channels covering topics from Coronavirus news to education to cooking tips, football, Formula 1, music news and more. In 2020, ayoba has also added gaming, and offer users free access to top mobile games. In some markets (Cameroon, Ghana and Uganda) the integration with MTN Mobile Money (MoMo) allows users to send and receive money on ayoba. About ayoba: Since its launch in 2019, ayoba has reached over 2 million monthly active users. It offers users free access to an ecosystem of digital and rich media services through channels, micro-apps and payment solutions, embedded within an African super-app. Ayoba is highly localised and tailored for African and Middle East consumer needs, supporting 20 relevant languages. Users can send and receive encrypted messages, share photos, videos, files and voice notes and can also subscribe to live channels. Localised content is available through curated channels aimed at entertaining, educating and empowering communities as well as a range of games. Ayoba is available for Android users on the Google Store, via its website and on Apple Store. About MusicTime: MusicTime is a unique, localized Android app offering “pay as you go” music streaming as well as limited free music listening. It is presently available in South Africa, Nigeria, Ghana, Congo Brazzaville, Cameroon, eSwatini and Zambia. There is a strong focus on local artists, supported by a strong international catalogue. *SOURCE Ayoba and MusicTime®

By Bakary Ceesay

Stylish golden Sarah Joy, Gambian female singer has slammed music fans with amazing love music video called ‘Du Teey’ featuring the rap star of Bakoteh (BK) Tam-50.

‘Du teey’ harmonics translate from wollof language meaning ‘the love is not today’, capturing the overall sense of footage gave prolong novel story of relationship between two lovers that shared strong love for each other but could not settle together as couple.

It takes courage to love, but pain through love is the purifying fire which those who love generously know.

Speaking to Sarah Joy in an exclusive the singer said she was inspired by people who complained and regret spending lot of time that will later be term as a waste. She said some relationships, some people spend decades together only to realised that they are not meant for each other. At some point they felt is a waste of time, energy and investment. Many instances you see your younger ones settling down which make the whole issue dramatic.

She said that kind of long waiting relationships frustrate both parties involved because is hard to continue life without the person you pictured yourself with, but however sometimes all they need is little motivation and incentives which will either make them stay or leave yet there is a point when you have to give ultimatum to act on.

“Basically the song is to encouraging them to give alternative to the person either to leave or get it official (marriage).”

The song is recorded, mixed and mastered by leading production house in the Gambia, Stylzz Records.  Produced by KAINAWA Beats and shapely video shoot by Ultimate Media.

Already the video geared 4, 081 views on YouTube and still counting the streams. 
Sarah Joy is not only known for her beautiful melody singing but also a TV and radio mogulist who has won the hearts of many follower. She often used her platforms to champion Joy house entertainment/promotion, identified as music advocacy group established with the primary objective of empowering female musicians in the music business.

In same exclusive she added that very soon her team (Joy House Entertainment/ promotion) will embark on the famous Girl Power project which entail a bundle of things but the basic idea aimed at creating opportunity and using music to empower the women.

Below is the link of the music video Du Teey

By Joseph Besong

Stanley Ebai Enow “King Kong” was born on February 8th in Bamenda, North West Cameroon. He hails from Eshobi, Mamfe Central Sub Division. The pride of his origin and tribe influenced him to assume the pseudonym ‘’Bayangi Boy’’.

Stanley grew up in Bafoussam, West of Cameroon, where he owes allegiance. He was raised in a typical Presbyterian family adhering to religious tenets. He became an entertainment enthusiast as a teenager.

After primary school, Stanley Enow’s zest for music and dancing developed significantly. He penned his first lyrics in form two while at GBHS Bafoussam. Massively inspired by Usher and peer influence, he indulged into break dancing. He says ‘’If you weren’t a break dancer, you weren’t cool in school’’. In an interview on Afternoon Express in November 2017, he disclosed his elder brother (Martin) also a sucker for Hip hop music, bought tapes of 2 Pac and Ja Rule which helped to hone his lyrical artistry.

After obtaining his Advanced Level, in 2007, Stanley moved to Douala to pursue University studies. Considering Bafoussam wasn’t showbiz-inclined, Stanley had the conviction the economic heartbeat Douala would be propitious for him to chase his dreams.

He enrolled in the University of Douala to study Business Communication and eventually graduated in 2010.

Exceptionally talented, Stanley became a young highly solicited radio host in Douala. He featured as host on The Groove and Cocktail Hit Parade, two shows with substantial and ardent following. Private radio stations sought after his skills as animator, offering him a huge platform and status.

His knack, unmatched charisma and ability to effortlessly express himself in French and English enabled him to clasp a working relationship with prominent TV host and rapper Tony Nobody. In 2010-2011, Stanley became a regular host for the Hip Hop show ‘’MBOA’’ aired Wednesdays 4pm and rebroadcast on Saturdays 4pm on Canal 2 International. He was also selected to host shows for international artists including Sexion D’Assaut as well as voice-over actor for MTN Group.

Stanley’s relationship with music industry heavyweight Tony Nobody unveiled a new horizon in his life. With unreserved humility, he served as a mentee under Blaxity alongside artist Black La Rue.

In February 2012,he gave an electrifying performance at Sefyu’s concert in Douala. He mounted the stage and chanted the national anthem brandishing Cameroon’s flag. This was the beginning of a positive twist. It was glaring, success was imminent . He was co-host with the MTN caravan at the University Games held in Buea in May 2012.

In an interview, Stanley Enow narrated a scenario which sparked his inspiration for the song ‘Hein pere’ in 2012. He says he was trying to pacify a man who had lost his cool after spending so much time in a queue trying to pay an invoice. He said to the man ‘’what else can you do, hein pere’’. This culminated into the biggest Hip Hop song ever from Cameroon. ‘’Hein pere’ is a song of motivation and hope to the youths in despair. The song was released in March 2013 under Motherland Empire imprint and rapidly earned viral rotation across Cameroon.

I remember Stanley called me saying he’s about to drop a song which was going to change the face of Cameroon’s urban music landscape. And yes! He did.

He declared himself ‘’Cameroon’s Hip Hop Messiah’’ on Facebook and in July 2013, ‘’Hein pere’’ became a chart-topper on Trace Urban. He indulged into merchandise with record-breaking sales of ‘’Hein pere’’ T-shirts and hats.

In December 2013, he won Male Artist of the Year and Urban Artist of the year at Cameroon Academy Awards (SONNAH). In 2014, he won Best Video of the Year 2013 and Trace New Artist of The Year 2013.

He later released ‘’Tumbu Boss’’ video in April 14th 2014 and ‘’Njama njama cow’’.

2014, was a massive breakthrough when he bagged Best New Act at the MTV Africa Music Award in a category comprising Burna Boy, Phyno, Heavy K and Uhuru. He also won Best Newcomer at AFRIMMA 2014, Best Male Central Africa at KORA Awards.

In 2015, he collaborated with Ghanaian superstar Fuse ODG and Olamide on ‘’Black Commando’’, a Guinness ‘’Made of Black’’ ad campaign. He also collaborated with Sarkodie on ‘’Njama Njama cow’’ remix and DJ Neptune on ‘’King Kong’’, shot in Johannesburg. ‘’Work hard (Le pere Noel) ’’ was another phenomenal song released in September 2015. The video was shot in Paris by Max Ngassa. He unleashed ‘’Soldier Like Ma Papa’’ in 2015.

He was invited to the Congressional Black Caucus Annual Legislative Conference in Washington DC which was held in September 2015.

In January 2016, he collaborated with Ice Prince on ‘’Yours’’ produced by Sammy Gyang. He collaborated with Locko on ‘’Bounce’’ and on May 9TH he dropped the video with South African rapper AKA without Locko, evoking polemic. From his ‘’Afro Series’’ in prep of his sophomore album, he dropped ‘’Follow me’’.

In July 2016, he collaborated with Biz Ice on ‘’We are Hip Hop’’.

In 2017, Stanley Enow released ‘’Pray’’, ‘’Love Song’’ featuring Claude Ndam and ‘’Adore You’’ featuring Mr Eazi and ‘’Caramel’’ featuring Davido, starring Lagos-based Zimbabwean TV personality Vimbai.

Stanley Enow delivered ‘’Elle est la’’ in March 2018 and ‘’Casanova’’ video in June 2018. He was backlashed for switching to singing, but this seemed to be a new lane for award-winning artist. In September 2018, a massive collabo with Locko and Tzy Panchak was served. It has hoarded 4.7 million views on Youtube.

He churned out ‘’Good day (Fire)’’ on March 15th 2019. ‘’Stanley Vs Enow’, a’ 12-track album in November 2019 followed by a video of ‘’La fete’’.

In January 2020 , ‘’My way’’ was remixed featuring Tanzanian superstar Diamond Platnum and Ivorian Ariel Sheney.

Multiple award-winning artist Stanley Enow became UNICEF Goodwill ambassador on August 19th 2020.

He has earned numerous lucrative endorsement deals with reputable brands including Guinness, BICEC, and presently Samsung brand Ambassador.

Stanley is a successful entrepreneur owning Motherland clothing and other businesses. He has created a remarkable impact across Africa and keeps conquering the world.

If you believe and stay focused, you shall definitely thrive.

Get inspired !

By Bakary Ceesay

The Ebro-endorsed Nigerian act is back after the success of “Spaceman 2.0” with two new singles “Tables Turn” and “Gotta” ft. SDaWG

On 14th August 2020 sees Port Harcourt based rapper Kiienka release two singles dubbed “Tables Turn” and “Gotta” featuring SGaWD. It’s been 3 months since we last heard from Kiienka when he debuted “Spaceman 2.0”; a hard-hitting blend of modern-day trap and R&B which quickly secured his spot as an artist to watch in the new wave of African trap music and even a feature on Ebro’s Discovered on Apple Music with his acclaimed single “In The Ends”.

Kiienka comes through with a collection of 2 trap-infused Hip Hop singles, which are both self-produced. His signature deft rap flows inspired by Atlanta style rap, layered psychedelic beats, and speaker-bumping baselines, as well as braggadocio, are all heavily present in both songs as Kiienka repeatedly boasts of his wins pointing out the ones who said he would fail are now his fans.

Tables Turn’ carries Kiienka’s signature trap synths and melodies to let us know how much his life has switched up; “…Tables turn round, Look at me I’m a star now…”. He acknowledges his success expressing his passion and gratitude for the love he is receiving in his music career thus far “…No vvs on my neck but I keep flooding the arena. Shawty make it work and she keep busting all my mental…”

Kiienka’s artistic versatility on “Gotta” is evident with the help of SGaWD and her soul-infused vocals. We feel the passion that drives Kiienka’s everyday grind introducing a hardworking persona aiming to get the bread for his family and friends “…Gotta go get it for all of my G’s, gotta go get it for my family too…”. With honest and relatable lyricism Kiienka circles around daily struggles experienced while securing his bag “…Came out the mud I got dirt on my shoes, These bitches didn’t love me, they said I was broke, Had to go get it by any means, middle finger to all of my foes…”

By Bakary Ceesay

Malian Oumou Sangaré has claimed the No 1 spot on the World Music Charts Europe(link is external) (WMCE) with her album titled Acoustic.

Acoustic rose 13 places after making its entry on the chart at No 14 in July. The offering is essentially an unplugged version of her 2017 release Mogoya. The album was released digitally on 19 June through record label No Format.

“I suggested to Oumou that she record this album after a show in London to celebrate 15 years of No Format,” No Format founder Laurent Bizot said. “At that concert, for the first time, she had agreed to try out this acoustic approach, which is all about letting go. The space it created for her voice was wonderful.”

The Pace Setters, a reissue of Ghanaian band Edikanfo’s 1981 LP, ranks second after its debut on the chart at No 7 in July.

Making its entry at No 4 is The King of Sudanese Jazz by musician Sharhabil Ahmed via the Habibi Funk label. The seven tracks were recorded in the 1960s and feature a mix of rock and roll, funk, surf rock, traditional Sudanese music and Congolese rumba.

Maghreb K7 Club: Synth Raï, Chaoui & Staiif (1985-1997) is another newcomer on the chart ranking at No 7. The album features an impressive compilation of music recorded and produced between 1985 and 1997 by musicians from the Maghreb region in Algeria.

Further down, Santrofi’s Alewa – the No 1 album in July – drops to No 9, while Tamotait by Tuareg band Tamikrest from Mali fell eight positions to No 13. The album was at the top of the chart in June.

At No 17 is Afropentatonism by Nigerien desert blues musician Alhousseini Anivolla and Ethiopian jazz guitarist Girum Mezmur. The pan-African project dropped six places after debuting at No 11 last month.

Nayda! by Bab L’Bluz from Morocco completes the list of African albums on the chart with a debut at No 18. Real World Records says the album features “a new wave of Moroccan artists and musicians taking their cues from local heritage, singing words of freedom in the Moroccan-Arabic dialect of darija (‘nayda’ means both ‘to rise up’ and ‘to party’) and mixing influences as and when.”

The WMCE features albums selected by radio producers and presenters across Europe. The albums are then played for a month on various radio stations, and an official poster is displayed in multiple music stores.

Universal Music Group’s label dedicated to supporting the best in African hip-hop talent and culture across the continent, extends reach into French-speaking Africa.

ABIDJAN, July 24, 2020– Universal Music Group (UMG), the world leader in music-based entertainment, today announced the further expansion of its Def Jam Africa division into three new markets within French-speaking Africa; Côte d’Ivoire, Senegal and Cameroon, effective immediately.

Def Jam Africa launched in May 2020, as the first label dedicated to representing the best hip-hop, Afrobeats and trap talent in Africa, and follows the blueprint of the iconic Def Jam Recordings label, which has led and influenced the cutting-edge in hip-hop and urban culture for more than 35 years.

Def Jam Africa will now have additional A&R, marketing and digital resources based within UMG’s offices in Abidjan (Côte d’Ivoire), Dakar (Senegal) and Douala (Cameroon), dedicated to discovering hip-hop talent across all French-speaking African markets and will operate under the leadership of Franck Kacou, Directeur Général, Universal Music Africa.

Kacou will work closely with Sipho Dlamini, CEO, Universal Music Sub-Saharan Africa & South Africa and Def Jam Africa teams in Johannesburg, South Africa and Lagos, Nigeria, to ensure the Def Jam Africa continues to identify and sign the best artist talent from across the entire continent.

The first flagship artist signings to join Def Jam Africa from these countries are highly respected and hugely popular rappers; Tenor (Cameroon), Suspect 95 (Côte d’Ivoire), & Omzo Dollar (Senegal), The trio joins some of Africa’s most influential artists and MC’s already on the label including: Cassper Nyovest, Nasty C, Larry Gaaga, Boity, Nadia Nakai, Tellaman, Tshego, Ricky Tyler & Vector.

In making the announcement, Franck Kacou said, “We are excited to launch Def Jam Africa in Côte d’Ivoire, Senegal and Cameroon with three of Africa’s most exciting hip-hop artists; Tenor, Suspect 95 and Omzo Dollar. There is a wealth of domestic hip-hop talent here and in the surrounding countries, that has the potential to transcend language and geographical boundaries to appeal to audiences throughout Africa, France and beyond. I look forward to working alongside Sipho to expand our community of artists across the continent, and to help elevate hip-hop from Africa to new heights.

Jeff Harleston, interim Chairman & CEO, Def Jam Recordings said, “The reaction to the recent launch of Def Jam Africa showed the weight and respect that the Def Jam name and brand carries globally. We are excited to welcome these new markets to the Def Jam Family. It provides an important opportunity for audiences worldwide to discover the incredibly talented hip-hop artists emerging throughout the continent.”

Olivier Nusse, Chairman & CEO, Universal Music France said, “African hip-hop is one of the most exciting movements in music today. In recent years we have seen an increase in its popularity in France, but the appetite for African hip-hop continues to grow amongst audiences around the world. We are excited to further expand Def Jam Africa into Cameroon, Senegal and Côte d’Ivoire, and for these incredible artists to help build Def Jam Africa into the authentic and collaborative home of hip-hop across all of Africa.”

New tracks from Suspect 95 – ‘Merc*On’; Tenor – ‘Ce Que Je Veux’ and Omzo Dollar – ‘Dictature 1’ are released today on Def Jam Africa.

Click HERE to download artist images and label assets.

About Def Jam Recordings

Founded in 1984, Def Jam Recordings has represented the cutting-edge in hip-hop music for more than 35 years. Def Jam began as a maverick independent label inspired by downtown New York City’s vibrant street culture and the emerging sound of hip-hop, pioneered by iconic stars like LL Cool J, Slick Rick, The Beastie Boys and Public Enemy. Over the following two decades, Def Jam established its dominance with superstar acts like Jay-Z, DMX, Ja Rule, Method Man & Redman, Ludacris, Rihanna, Jeezy, and the inimitable Kanye West. Now in its fourth decade, Def Jam’s music and lifestyle has grown into a global brand – synonymous with creativity, quality and authenticity – encompassing a diverse roster of marquee and emerging stars like West, Justin Bieber, Alessia Cara, Logic, Pusha T, Jadakiss, Vince Staples, Jeremih, Big Sean, YG, 2 Chainz, Dave East, and Jhene Aiko, among others. Today, Def Jam has reaffirmed its passion for and commitment to hip-hop culture and has expanded its global brand reach to become the most-followed major label on all major social media platforms.

About Universal Music Group

Universal Music Group (UMG) is the world leader in music-based entertainment, with a broad array of businesses engaged in recorded music, music publishing, merchandising and audiovisual content in more than 60 countries. Featuring the most comprehensive catalog of recordings and songs across every musical genre, UMG identifies and develops artists and produces and distributes the most critically acclaimed and commercially successful music in the world. Committed to artistry, innovation and entrepreneurship, UMG fosters the development of services, platforms and business models in order to broaden artistic and commercial opportunities for our artists and create new experiences for fans. Universal Music Group is a Vivendi company.

Def Jam Africa artists on social media

Tenor https://www.instagram.com/tenorofficiel/?hl=fr

Suspect 95 https://www.instagram.com/suspect95_/?hl=fr

Omzo Dollar https://www.instagram.com/omzodollar/?hl=fr

Cassper Nyovest https://www.instagram.com/casspernyovest/?hl=en

Nasty C https://www.instagram.com/nasty_csa/?hl=en

Boity https://www.instagram.com/boity/?hl=en

Nadia Nakai https://www.instagram.com/nadianakai/?hl=en

Vector https://www.instagram.com/vectorthaviper/?hl=en

Larry Gaaga https://www.instagram.com/larrygaaga/?hl=en

Tellaman https://www.instagram.com/tellamanofficial/?hl=en

Tshego https://www.instagram.com/tshego_worldwide/?hl=en

Ricky Tyler https://www.instagram.com/rickytylershow/?hl=en

www.defjam.africa

By Ishmael Sallieu Koroma

Sierra Leone’s Independent Police Complaint Board (IPCB)  has in a press statement on Monday said they have commenced preliminary investigations over the alleged shooting by security forces resulting in the killing of five people during a protest on Friday 19th July  in Makeni , Northern Sierra Leone.

 Residents in the Northern part of the country were protesting against the relocation of 1.65 megawatts thermal standby generator from the city, to temporarily service the airport town of Lungi when Police opened fire on protesters.

 The IPCB in a  release  stated they were initiating the investigations on its own pursuant to Regulations 9 of the said regulation with a view to determining the conduct of the SLP personnel involved.

“The  attention of the Independent Police Complaint Board (IPCB)  has been drawn to fracas between some residents of Makeni City and security forces ,including personnel of the Sierra Leone Police (SLP) allegedly resulting in the discharge of fire arms killing five (5) members of the civil populace and some others severely left wounded on Saturday 18^th July , 2020 in Makeni City , Bombali District, ‘’the IPCB release stated.

According to IPCB, it was  reported that some residents took to the streets to protest against an attempt by the Electricity Distribution and Supply Authority (EDSA) to temporarily relocate a 1.65Mega Watts Thermal generator to Lungi Town in Portloko district.

“As provided for under Regulation 3(1) (c) of the IPCB Regulations, 2013 the IPCB is mandated to investigate among others ,”a shooting incident where a police officer has discharged  a fire arm or killed a person’’

IPCB however assured the public that they  will be informed of any development on the matter.

Mean while many civil society organisations ,rights groups and social movements have condemned  the heavy handedness of the security forces and thus calling for an independent investigation into the incident in the northern part of the country.

 Network Movement for Justice and Development  (NMJD)  on Tuesday said in a statement that it strongly condemned the killing of civilians in Makeni and called for an immediate impartial investigation.

“Network Movement for Justice and Development (NMJD) strongly condemns the recent killings of protesting civilians in the northern headquarter town of Makeni allegedly by the Sierra Leone Police . we are deeply disappointed by the alleged use of live bullets by the Sierra Leone Police to disperse unarmed civilian protesters . This action was uncalled for and could have been avoided,’’ NMJD said in a statement.

Director of Communications Renaissance Movement,  Makmid Kamara,  in an interview on local television Africa Young Voices expressed sympathy to the families and victims and called for accountability for the unlawful killings of compatriots urging the government for an immediate and independent investigations into the incident.

“As a movement we condemned all forms of violence and urged the young people across the country to channel their grievances to the relevant authorities in a peaceful and non-violent manner ,’’he said

Renowned human rights lawyer , Augustine Sorie -Sengbe Marrah wrote on his twitter “ There’s nothing wrong with removing standby generator from one place to another . what is unlawful and un justified is to shoot and kill those who protest such move (even if the protest is unreasonable ). What is also wrong is the Bar Association silent mode when compatriots are wasted….’’

However, government has called for calm and expressed sympathy for the lives loss and injuries that resulted in the Makeni saga.

The King of “Talk and Do” has the prime objective of winning the competition and giving back to his community.

By Boris Esono Nwenfor

The inaugural version of a reality show termed “Biggy237” is set to hit TV screens across the country this August 1, 2020. Biggy237 was set to begin in January 2020, but due to the coronavirus pandemic, it was pushed forward.

61 contestants from across the country are set to enter the inaugural show. One of the contestants set to thrill viewers is Makoge Collins, Biggy contestant No.18. A graduate from the Department of Journalism and Mass Communication, 25-year-old Makoge Collins was born in Kumba, into a family of six children, being the last child, is a journalist at HiTV Cameroon, a sales representative at Colgate-Palmolive Distribution Company.

In an exclusive interview with Pan African Visions Cameroon correspondent this July 13, 2020, the self-styled king of “Talk and Do” say through Biggy 237 he intends to be one of the best Cameroonian entertainment journalists and also plan to become a creative Director.

PAV: How did you get involved in Biggy 237?

Makoge Collins: I saw the ad on Facebook but I was not interested because I was like it is another competition in Cameroon that things will go sideways. When it comes to competitions in Cameroon they always give it to the wrong persons, focusing on like, votes, and shares which for me is not a good way to say somebody merits an award. I was persuaded by my friend to go in for it, and I sat I thought what do I have to lose if go in for it? I did an audition video and send, and everything just exploded from there. With time, I knew that I needed the exposure, for people to see what I can do, and to see entertainment at its core.

PAV: What are some of the tasks you have been able to achieve so far?

Makoge Collins: We had four tasks that were presented and voted on. The first task was selling our location since as I am from Buea I sold it to tourists to make them interested to come to Buea. We had other tasks like how will you protect the environment; show how you care about your family and do an advert. All these things were very easy for me because it is something I love doing. It was a fun exercise.

They (organizers) told us that the winners will get a prize or something as it was based on votes and likes. There were many contestants whose tasks were not good at all based on quality and content. The panel knew that but since the contestants were popular hey had more views, likes and shares and votes because they could afford it. That is the only issue I faced with the assigned tasks.

PAV: What makes you stand out from the other 60 contestants competing?

Makoge Collins: What you see is what you get. I will not go there and be fake but I am going to be myself. I am confident and if I know I can’t do something I say it. With me Collins I am the king of talk and do. Even if it means I might fail or not always the winner it won’t stop me because I will work hard next time so I do better. I will not let anything stand in my way, I am a fighter. It is all about impressing people, creating awareness of what I can do. Many contestants will be like I can do this and that but with what I have seen, not all can do what they say they can do. What I see is just a brand but it is empty, it does not come with a package.

PAV: So what is your ambition?

Makoge Collins: I want to be one of the best entertainment journalists in Cameroon. With this (Biggy 237), it will give me great exposure. I also intend to become a creative Director. I like coming up with unique ideas, something different because with entertainment or fashion, unique or something different stands out more. I intend owning a business as it is my plan B. Apart from journalism, I want to be a great business person because have that mindset.

PAV: What are your telling your supporters and fans?

Makoge Collins: I am telling them that that thank you very much for standing by Collins, for being on this journey, for the push, for believing in me even when I did not fully believe in myself because what they tell me I feel like I can do more. I want to do more, not just for myself, my family but for them. If I end up winning, it is not just for me because it is always good to give back to society. I will make sure that they get a token of my prize, it might not be much but just to say thank you. I want to make them know that they are under the right flag, they are supporting the right person and we are going to fight till the end.

By Boris Esono Nwenfor

The Cameroon Film Industry (CFI), a platform of film stakeholders in Cameroon with representatives from the producers, directors, actors, technicians, and writers’ guilds have called for a revision of the draft law on cultural and artistic associations tabled before parliament on June 29, 2020.

The members amongst other things made it categorically clear that the draft law greatly ignores the bicultural nature of Cameroon enshrined in the preamble of our constitution. To them it is reflected in the fact that the law does not take into consideration the organizational differences that exists in the two cultural systems of Cameroon.

“The law is unconstitutional because it raises a lot of conflict with other laws, Takum Fred Che, Financial Secretary of CFI said. “You cannot take a situation where the 1990 Laws that have guaranteed that Associations can be created at the grassroot level bringing it to the people. But this draft is centralizing the whole thing back to the Minister of culture.”

He added: “You have to procedurally suffer and even have to do a lot of documentation to make sure your application move from the sub divisional level to divisional, regional, and national level. It makes the Minister the only person to accredit and authorize the existence of federation. This totally goes against the 1990 liberal laws.”

The members further indicated that the law makes room for just a single federation totally taking away the freedom to form one which makes the draft unconstitutional. “The law is also practically difficult to apply because finally it is unclear if associations shall be under the management and control of MINAC or MINAT, thus creating a fertile ground for conflict of functions, responsibilities, and powers,” a concept note from CFI noted.

CFI which is a major stakeholder in the film sector of the country according to officials were and are being ignored and sidelined in the drafting of the law. The law to the officials does not have what it takes to harness, nurture and maximize their potentials.

CFI added: “The September 22, 1979, law which is used as base is misrepresented in the present law because whereas the 1979 law was intelligent enough to know that cultural groups and artistic groups cannot be governed under the same law, this one erroneously thinks they are the same. While the 1979 law uses the terms, “company,” “union,” and “guilds” to distinguish the appellations used depending on the area of competence, this drafts attempts to use them as hierarchical structures that are directly related and dependent.”

Proposing solution to the draft law on cultural and artistic Associations in Cameroon, the members of CFI said a clear distinction between cultural groups and artistic groups had to be made, with specific laws elaborated for each to ensure their smooth functioning. 

“Artistic groups should be governed by internationally established rules that respect and know guilds as agglomerations of common interest,” CFI said. “A confederation of federations representing our bicultural nature should be established in the artistic groups with equal representation.”

The draft bill has however been adopted leading CFI, and other stakeholders involve grappling with the fallout of the “bad” bill as stated by some officials.

The bill according to the Minster of Territorial Administration Paul Atanga Nji is one that is going to make the industry more profit and make it closer to their minister than how it was before.

By Bakary Ceesay

Awards winning Italian based Gambian prominent DJ People’s Choice, cum artiste has released his debut  song called ‘Kumpo’ available in all digital platforms.

It is recorded at Atomizer Records available in YouTube and Spotify. Kumpo is a Senegambia cultural traditional masquerade blend with African cultural and historical backgrounds in Mandinka language with house music making waves international. 

He is been the first person to blend house music and Afro-House in a African grand style which is well-known and accepted across the globe in live music scene.

DJ People’s Choice said he is currently on another song in the studio entitled ‘Manneh’  aim at blend the African tradition with house music.

“I am determined to sells our African culture to West to know that our culture is beautiful so that it can be an inter cultural exchange, dialogue and diversity across the globe,” he added.

He has colloborated with Gambia’s finest artiste ENC, in a song and Joe Nevix, a vateran music producer making waves across the globe.

Open for colloboration

The young determined DJ cum artiste calls on all artistes, Djs and promoters to come on board and work for the betterment of the industry across the globe.

He called on all Gambians and non to come and work with him. 

Below the link of song:https://youtu.be/DL2TezW1soA

SyncFloor, the commercial music marketplace, is announcing its partnership with Mavin Records, bringing the label’s catalog to more potential sync buyers via syncfloor.com and its newly launched Mavin Records SyncSite. SyncFloor’s SyncSites allow its rights holder partners to surface a sync-oriented website that presents thematic, customized blocks of tracks and allows potential users to search for and find tracks from within the partner’s one-stop catalog, using natural language and cultural references.

“Afropop is golden, and Mavin Records is a powerhouse of African talent,” explains SyncFloor CEO Kirt Debique. “We are honored to get their beautiful music in front of production professionals worldwide.”

SyncFloor recently launched its commercial marketplace, along with a sister site SongsForPodcasters. Mavin’s one-stop catalog will also be featured in the podcast focused marketplace, making their infectious sounds and rhythmic vibrations accessible to the growing podcast phenomenon.

“SyncFloor’s groundbreaking service promises immense access, making them fitting partners to expand our dealings in commercial music licensing,” says Oghenejobo P. Tega, Chief Operating Officer, Mavin Records, “Over time, Afrobeats, and African culture, in general, have converted audiences across the globe with massive moments. We’re glad to offer our vast catalogue to brands and platforms looking to tell global stories in film and digital content.”

About SyncFloor

SyncFloor is a revolutionary new marketplace designed to unleash the full potential of music in commerce. We are revolutionizing music licensing, from music discovery through license clearance, for advertisements, film, TV, video games, and more. 

About SongsForPodcasters

SongsForPodcasters is a marketplace of commercial music to be used in podcasts of all types.  Built on the SyncFloor platform, SongsForPodcasters simplifies the discovery and licensing of music for podcast creators and producers through customized discovery, pricing, and licensing workflows.

About Mavin Records

Mavin Records was founded in 2012 by legendary Afrobeats producer, Don Jazzy, and produced some of the definitive music and artists such as Wande Cole, Tiwa Savage, and Reekado Banks. Currently, its roster spans a variety of genres with artists including Korede Bello, Johnny Drille, Di’ja, D’Prince, Dr. SID, LadiPoe, DNA, Rema, Crayon and DJ Big N. Today, Mavin is a community of amazing people dedicated to creativity, innovation and breaking new frontiers.

By Bakary Ceesay

German-based Sierra-Leone Praise/worship leader Cyrus Richard Togba,  popularly known as Cyrus Richie has released his anticipated new single “Miracle God,” along with an accompanying lyric video.

Celebrating God’s faithfulness,  Cyrus Richie taps into his African root for this groovy mid-tempo with Afropop/Highlife influences, creating the mood for a light dance. The soul-lifting track features Stella, a Nigerian gospel singer, and vocalist based in Germany.

According to Cyrus, ‘Miracle God’ is a song of prayer and testimony of God’s steadfast love in his life over the years. He also added that it is an encouragement to someone to keep their faith and hope in God.

“This song was conceived a few years ago during a trying time in my life. Right from moving into the country newly, to living in a store-house for months, coupled with other challenges, God’s faithfulness remained consistent and steadfast,” said Richie

“God reminded me of how faithful He’s been through the years, with a re-assurance that if He did it before, He will do it again” He Adds “I trusted Him and everything changed.”

‘Miracle God’ is also Cyrus’ special gift to everyone as he commemorates his birthday on (June 28). It’s his second effort this year following “Bow and Worship,” a worship ballad featuring Kalusian which dropped in January.

Cyrus Richie has hinted at working on a new music video due in later this year and announced his debut album coming in 2021.

Produced by Tope Ajayi. “Miracle God” is available to stream and download on all digital platforms including iTunes, Spotify and Boomplay!
Below you listen to the song via YouTube:https://youtu.be/GkDMC7xEm-0