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Remembering Brenda Fassie, the Queen of African Pop whose music still lives on.

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Remembering Brenda Fassie, the Queen of African Pop whose music still lives on.

Remembering Brenda Fassie, the Queen of African Pop whose music still lives on.

Brenda was born in Cape Town, South Africa 🇿🇦 in 1964, where she was raised by her mother after her father passed away when she was two. At a tender age, she started earning money by singing to tourists, while her mother, a pianist, played alongside. Brenda climbed her way to the top, beginning as the lead singer in a group called “Brenda and The Big Dudes”, and eventually branching off as a solo artist.

 

Brenda became well known for her “outrageousness” on stage and was sometimes referred to as the “Black Madonna”. Some of her greatest hits include “Vuli Ndlela”, “Black President”, “Nomakanjani?”, “I’m sorry Mama” and more. Most of her albums went on to become multi-platinum sellers in South Africa.

She died in 2004 at the age of 39 after losing consciousness at a hospital in South Africa.

 

Despite all the controversies surrounding her personal life, Brenda was a trailblazer in the African music industry. She was a musical genius who constantly reinvented herself and always gave fans around the world something special to look forward to. More importantly, she was a revolutionary who lent her voice to important social issues in her country and went on to inspire many people. Her impact on African music is undeniable and her work will continue to impact generations for years to come.

It Doesn’t Reduce Who I Am If Young Artistes Don’t Recognise Me As Legend – 2face Idibia

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It Doesn’t Reduce Who I Am If Young Artistes Don’t Recognise Me As Legend – 2face Idibia

It Doesn’t Reduce Who I Am If Young Artistes Don’t Recognise Me As Legend – 2face Idibia

Veteran Nigerian singer, Innocent Ujah Idibia, popularly known as 2face Idibia, has said he is not bothered about legendary recognition by the new generation of singers.

the ‘African Queen’ crooner stated this during an interview in the latest episode of the Afrobeats podcast hosted by Adesope Olajide, also known as Shopsydoo.

He said nobody owes him anything because it doesn’t reduce him in any way if young artistes fail to recognise his legendary status.

However, he appreciates when they pay him tribute in recognition of his legendary status, but it is not mandatory for them to do so.

The only thing is, definitely, I appreciate it when people recognise [my legendary status]. There’s nobody that won’t appreciate that. I appreciate when people recognise but I don’t take it too personal when they don’t. That one na the person ignorance.

“Nobody owes person anything because everybody that comes, they are going to tell their own stories. They are not going to start telling my own story.

Every artist that comes up now, even if they get inspiration from me or anybody, they are going to use it to elevate themselves. And that is their own stories.”

 

He said, “Nobody owes me anything. For me, it [my legendary status] is there. It’s never going to go away. It doesn’t reduce who I’m if young artistes don’t recognise my legendary status.

Sound Sultan’s Death Was Like A Joke To Me, Says 2Baba

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Sound Sultan’s Death Was Like A Joke To Me, Says 2Baba

Sound Sultan’s Death Was Like A Joke To Me, Says 2Baba

Nigerian music icon Innocent Idibia, popularly know as 2Baba, said Sound Sultan was a good person, while noting that his demise was initially like a joke to him.

 

2face made this known while speaking on the Afrobeats Podcast with Adesola, which was shared on Thursday.

 

The singer said, “Sultan, I don’t know…he was one of the ‘goodest’, if I can use that word. he was one of the ‘goodest’ people you can ever come across.

 

“For a long time, I did not accept that fact, it was like a joke. The diagnosis was late, he did tests in Nigeria. We thought it was malaria but I don’t want to get into all that.”

 

Sound Sultan passed away on Sunday, July 11, 2021, at the age of 44 following a hard-fought battle with Angioimmunoblastic T-cell lymphoma, a rare form of cancer.

 

The two were friends for over 20 years before Sultan passed away.

 

Credit: Youtube | Afrobeatspodcast

The New Yoruba Film Industry: From VHS to Netflix and Cinema

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The New Yoruba Film Industry: From VHS to Netflix and Cinema

The New Yoruba Film Industry: From VHS to Netflix and Cinema

 

I have always wanted to write about this developmental trend of the New yoruba film industry which I have told several colleagues wasn’t accidental rather a deliberate attempt for success. It is pure knowledge that the sector has deliberately put in place structures for its growth that we are seeing today.

 

The New Yoruba film industry, also known as Nollywood, has undergone a transformational journey over the years. From shooting low-budget movies on VHS tapes to producing high-quality and internationally acclaimed films like Jagun Jagun, Anikulapo, Agesikole and Orisa amongst others.

 

The industry’s growth in technical and artistic excellence has been remarkable. I will like to explore the evolution of the Yoruba film industry, highlighting the contributions of legendary filmmakers such as Hubert Ogunde, Ade Afolayan, and Moses Adejumo, while also showcasing the recent accomplishments of Kunle Afolayan, Femi Adebayo, Adebayo Tijanni, and Odunlade Adekola.

 

From the Early Years of Celluloid Films for Cinema, the Yoruba film industry was primarily focused on producing films for cinemas. Renowned filmmakers like Hubert Ogunde, Ade Afolayan, and Moses Adejumo (popularly known as Baba Sala) led the way, creating a legacy of quality filmmaking that laid the foundation for future generations with films like AIYE.TAXI DRIVER, JAIYESIMI, MOSEBOLATAN amongst others

 

These visionary filmmakers shot their movies on celluloid, a process that required technical expertise and significant financial investment. Despite the challenges, their films showcased remarkable storytelling, cultural significance, and attention to detail.

 

These pioneers paved the way for the development of the New Yoruba film industry of late 80’s to early 90’s with the likes of late Muyideen Aromire, Adebayo Salami, Taiwo Hassan. Jide Kosoko amongst others tried to set a high standard for artistic quality but funding was a challenge for that generation of filmmakers.

 

The Transition from Celluloid films to VHS production became a new wave as it emerged with the rise of video technology in the late 1980s and early 1990s, the Yoruba film industry experienced a significant shift. Filmmakers now had access to affordable equipment for shooting and production.

 

This era introduced a new wave of yoruba filmmakers majorly the likes of Tunde Alabi Hundeyi(Dudu), Tade Ogidan, and Tunde Kelani, who embraced the emerging Video format on a higher technical quality with films like Iyawo Alhaji, Ti Oluwa Nile and Owo Blow amongst others but the majority of the yoruba producers were still filming on low quality VHS formats.

 

While the technical quality of the films might not have matched those shot on celluloid, this shift democratized the industry and made it more accessible to a wider audience.

As the popularity of Yoruba movies grew, so did the demand for improved production values and narrative prowess.

 

However there was a twist in production value with the new Millennium filmmakers who decided to rise above technical Constraints to make films that can compete in the global space.

 

As the Yoruba film industry entered the new millennium, filmmakers began to embrace digital technology, revolutionizing the quality of their productions. This marked a tremendous advancement in both technical and artistic aspects.

 

Filmmakers like Kunle Afolayan, Femi Adebayo, and Adebayo Tijanni emerged during this period and raised the bar for quality storytelling and technical excellence in Yoruba cinema. Their movies, such as Kunle Afolayan’s “Anikulapo,” showcased enhanced cinematography, better editing techniques, and compelling narratives that resonated with both local and international audiences.

 

This development in recent years has led to the yoruba film industry taken a giant leap and gaining access to modern distribution platforms like Netflix and gaining access to cinema screens worldwide. Odunlade Adekola, with his popular “Orisa” movie which has grossed over 100m in the Cinemas in one week are amongst the millenia yoruba films that have contributed immensely to the industry’s growth.

 

This expansion has provided Yoruba filmmakers with a global stage to showcase their talents and stories. With improved production values, better storytelling techniques, and collaborations with renowned international directors and actors, Yoruba movies have gained international recognition and continue to captivate audiences beyond Nigeria’s borders.

 

The Yoruba film industry has come a long way from its humble beginnings, where filmmakers shot on VHS tapes or celluloid for cinema screens. The transition from VHS to embracing digital technology, combined with the artistic excellence of filmmakers like Kunle Afolayan, Femi Adebayo, Adebayo Tijanni, and Odunlade Adekola amongst others has elevated the industry’s technical and artistic quality.

 

Today, Yoruba films are not just limited to Nigeria but have found a global audience through platforms like Netflix and cinema releases. This expansion has enabled the industry to share its rich cultural heritage while captivating audiences worldwide. As the Yoruba film industry continues to evolve, it remains poised to make even greater strides in the realms of technical innovation and storytelling excellence.

 

Fidelis Duker, a Filmmaker and Media Practitioner writes from Calabar Nigeria

“Nigerien junta lacks the authority to remove ambassador, asserts France.”

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“Nigerien junta lacks the authority to remove ambassador, asserts France.”

France has responded to the Niger junta’s attempt to expel its ambassador, Sylvain Itte, by asserting that the junta lacks the authority to take such an action.

The Niger military had given Itte 48 hours to leave the country after he declined an invitation to meet with the junta-appointed foreign minister.

The French Foreign Ministry criticized the French government’s stance, deeming it contrary to Niger’s interests.

However, France maintained its position that the “putschists,” referring to the junta, lack the legitimacy to expel its ambassador.

According to France, the ambassador’s authorization stems exclusively from the legitimately elected Nigerien authorities.

France emphasized its ongoing assessment of embassy security and operational conditions.

President Emmanuel Macron of France had previously demanded the release of Nigerien President Mohamed Bazoum, who had been detained in a military coup orchestrated by Abdourahamane Tchiani, the former commander of Niger’s presidential guard. Macron also called for the reestablishment of democratic governance in Niger, a nation that was once a French colony but experienced a military coup that toppled its elected leadership in July.

Mercy Eke’s Journey of Strategic Brilliance to the 120M Prize Crown

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Mercy Eke’s Journey of Strategic Brilliance to the 120M Prize Crown

When it comes to evaluating Mercy Eke’s performance on the popular reality show #BBNaijaAllstars edition, it’s easy for novice viewers to overlook her strategic acumen. At first glance, she may not appear to be actively strategizing her way to the top. However, a closer look reveals that Mercy possesses a subtle yet effective strategic game that will propel her to stay in the competition until the very end. Beyond the show, she exudes leadership qualities both inside and outside the house.

Let’s delve into the lessons we can learn from someone like Mercy Eke.

While some housemates may be vocal about their strategies, Mercy Eke operates with a more understated approach. She doesn’t need to boast or engage in unnecessary drama to make her mark. Observant viewers can identify her strategic moves through her actions and decision-making. This subtle yet effective approach has allowed her to navigate the complexities of the game and secure her position in the competition.

Leadership qualities are evident in Mercy’s demeanor both within and outside the house. She possesses an aura that naturally draws attention and respect from others. Her ability to make influential connections and alliances without overtly asserting her dominance showcases her leadership skills. Mercy leads by example, and her fellow housemates often find themselves gravitating towards her.

Mercy Eke’s success can be attributed to her self-awareness and ability to use her mind to act strategically. She understands her strengths, weaknesses, and how to leverage them in her favor. Her decisions are calculated and thoughtful, ensuring that she maximizes her chances of success. Through careful observation and analysis, she determines the best course of action, making her a formidable competitor.

Even beyond the confines of the #BBNaija house, Mercy’s strategic prowess extends to her social media presence. Her team of social media handlers ensures that her online persona aligns with her brand and strategic objectives. This coordination enhances her overall image and showcases her professionalism, adding to her appeal and popularity among fans.

One of Mercy Eke’s most notable qualities is her unwavering winning spirit. She is not one to rest on past glory or rely solely on her previous achievements. Throughout the competition so far, she has demonstrates her determination and resilience, always striving to emerge victorious. This winning mentality inspires others and sets her apart as a fierce competitor worthy of admiration.

In conclusion, Mercy Eke’s strategic brilliance in #BBNaija may not be immediately apparent to casual viewers. However, her silent strategy, unspoken leadership, self-awareness, coordinated social media presence, and winning spirit make her a force to be reckoned with. There are valuable lessons to be learned from her approach, both within and outside the show. As the competition progresses, it will be fascinating to see how Mercy continues to utilize her strategic acumen in her quest to claim the 120M prize.

Engine Room: Victoria ‘Veekee’ James – Igniting Fashion and Philanthropy

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Engine Room: Victoria ‘Veekee’ James – Igniting Fashion and Philanthropy

In our “Engine Room” series, we illuminate the powerhouses propelling brands, the unsung heroes orchestrating behind-the-scenes triumphs, and the exceptional leaders shaping our world. For this edition, our focus pivots towards an ensemble of extraordinary individuals, and amid this constellation shines Victoria ‘Veekee’ James. A luminary in her own right, Victoria is not only an Award-Winning Fashion Designer but also the ingenious founder and creative director at Veekee James – a luxury fashion brand that stands as a pinnacle of elegance and innovation in Nigeria and across Africa. Her impact, however, transcends the realm of fashion, as she is recognized for her noteworthy philanthropic pursuits.

Victoria James embodies the fusion of creativity and purpose, weaving her remarkable talents into the fabric of her brand, Veekee James. As a visionary in the world of fashion, she has crafted a trailblazing path, elevating her label to the forefront of luxury design. The resonance of her work is undeniable – a harmonious blend of tradition and contemporary aesthetics that reverberates throughout Nigeria and the African continent at large.

Veekee James

Beyond her role as a fashion mogul, Victoria wears the mantle of a philanthropist with equal grace. Her commitment to giving back to her community and beyond has created ripples of positive change. Her endeavors uplift, inspire, and make a tangible difference in the lives of those in need, reflecting her genuine passion for making the world a better place.

In the coming pages of our Africa Catalyst magazine, we are thrilled to announce our intent to feature Victoria ‘Veekee’ James. As we delve into her remarkable journey, we aim to spotlight her story of success, resilience, and innovation. Through her insights, we hope to draw inspiration from her creative vision, her philanthropic spirit, and her unwavering dedication to propelling both her brand and her community to new heights.

Stay tuned as we connect with Victoria ‘Veekee’ James, capturing her essence and sharing her narrative in the upcoming issue. Her story is one that resonates with the ethos of our “Engine Room” series – a celebration of individuals whose impact extends far beyond their immediate endeavors, shaping industries and lives, and creating a legacy that will continue to influence generations to come.

See other Engine Room for the week here

BALOGUN ODERINLO OF IBADAN: THE DREADED GIANT WARRIOR WHOSE MYSTERIOUS DEATH REMAIN UNSOLVED TILL TODAY

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BALOGUN ODERINLO OF IBADAN: THE DREADED GIANT WARRIOR WHOSE MYSTERIOUS DEATH REMAIN UNSOLVED TILL TODAY

BALOGUN ODERINLO OF IBADAN: THE DREADED GIANT WARRIOR WHOSE MYSTERIOUS DEATH REMAIN UNSOLVED TILL TODAY

 

The establishment of lbadan as a municipal, and then a regional, power actually began with the rule of Bashorun Oluyole from about the year 1836. This remarkably gifted warrior led several successful military campaigns, among which was the final rout of the Fulani army in Osogbo in 1840. His rule, according to historians, was a most ruthless and arbitrary one, but in fact, he paid just as much attention to war as to agricultural innovation and municipal administration.

 

The Bashorun is the one credited, for instance, with establishing the list of chieftaincy titles that are still mostly in use today, as well as their order of precedence. In addition, Bashorun Oluyole was the one who founded the still flourishing main market of Oja’ba [Oja Oba], which stands now as it did then directly in front of his compound. And he deserves to be credited, therefore, with the establishment of the city of lbadan as one of the important commercial centers in the then emerging country, whose present-day geographical identity can be best described as a vast, entangled network of markets. For it was Bashorun Oluyole’s sterling example which inspired the founding of other markets by his commanders, the most notable of them perhaps being the famous Oje market, started by Chief Dele, the Aare Ago, together with Balogun Oderinlo, on the road to lwo.

 

Oluyole’s successes, and the ‘democratic’ ambience of the town, encouraged people to flock into lbadan so that by the year 1851, the town’s population was put at between 60,000 and 100,000 while its surrounding walls stretched out for up to ten miles!

 

After Bashorun Oluyole’s death. Oderinlo who was his Balogun was next in line to succeed him. Because of the purges and wars that Oluyole engineered during his time as the leader of Ibadan, all the chiefs that were senior to Oderinlo had died before Oluyole or soon after Oluyole’s own death. So there was practically no rival to Oderinlo’s position as Balogun and ruler of the town.

 

Oderinlo rose to prominence as one of the chiefs who played an active role in the rebellion against Lakanle and the latter’s subsequent suicide. There seemed to have been some form of close ties between him and Oluyole. It is likely to Oderinlo was at least an associate if not a close friend of the Bashorun. It was the influence of Oluyole that he became the Otun Balogun to Bankole Aleshinloye, the first Balogun under Oluyole. After Aleshinloye’s death, Oderinlo became the Balogun. Oderinlo was the Balogun who led the Ibadan troops to fight in the second Ibadan- Ilorin war at Osogbo, a war that Ibadan won comprehensively.

 

The Army of Ibadan equally attacked Ilesa to rescue Oshogbo. From that war, the Ibadan Army ventured into Ekiti for the relief of Otun, which was attacked by Ilorin Army. They also fought in Ara to reinstate the Alara who was then having problems with his people. He was among the six generals who plotted against Oluyole after that campaign. He was also among the four who later rescinded that decision, leaving the two who did not rescind, Lajubu and Akinluyi to die in a purge by the Bashorun.

 

At the time Bashorun Oluyole died, Balogun Oderinlo was planning to go on a war to Oke Ogun. So when the entire council of Ibadan invited him to become the Baale He declined, saying he wanted to win that war first. Historians speculate that he wanted to gather the wealth from that war to boost his claim to the rulership of Ibadan at the time.

 

Balogun Oderinlo went to the war and came back. He won the war and gathered enough loot and slaves to bring back to Ibadan. However, a few months after his triumphant return to Ibadan from Oke Ogun, as he was set to be announced as the Baale of Ibadan, Balogun Oderinlo died mysteriously. To this day nobody knows how Balogun Oderinlo died, but the sudden and mysterious nature of his death has led many to speculate that he may have been poisoned. But no body could pinpoint who did the warrior the fatal blow.

 

After his demise, Baale Opeagbe replaced him on the throne of Ibadan.

 

Balogun Oderinlo has been honoured in Ibadan, a statue of him stands at Beere not far from Mapo Hall and the statue of Bashorun Oluyole. His house and some of his descendants live not far from Oja’ba to this day. His son Tanpe, would become a chief of Ibadan.

 

Source:

 

Akinyele, I.B.(1951) Iwe Itan Ibadan ati die ninu awon Ilu agbegbe re bii Osogbo Iwo ati Ikirun.

Engine Room: Tosin Olaseinde – Empowering Financial Literacy Through Money Africa

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Engine Room: Tosin Olaseinde – Empowering Financial Literacy Through Money Africa

In our “Engine Room” series, we shine a radiant light on the exceptional individuals driving brands, orchestrating behind-the-scenes efforts, and leading the way with unwavering determination. This edition unveils a lineup of extraordinary figures, and among them stands Tosin Olaseinde. She is the visionary force propelling Money Africa, a dedicated platform for financial literacy and investment education.

Tosin Olaseinde’s journey is one of inspiration and transformation. In 2018, driven by an unwavering passion, she founded Money Africa with a resolute vision to translate her enthusiasm into reality. Her aim: to demystify finance and empower individuals with the knowledge and tools needed to navigate the intricate world of investments and financial decisions.

Tosin Olaseinde

In a monumental stride that echoes her commitment to progress, Tosin co-founded Ladda.ng in 2020. This innovative financial technology platform has unfurled a groundbreaking avenue for retail investors to cultivate and amplify their wealth through compounding strategies. It’s a testament to Tosin’s prowess in marrying visionary ideas with tangible solutions.

Since the inception of Money Africa, Tosin’s impact has been nothing short of monumental. Her platform has galvanized a community of over 500,000 individuals across social media platforms, all eagerly imbibing her wisdom on financial literacy. Additionally, her mailing list boasts more than 1000 individuals who recognize the importance of financial education in shaping a secure and prosperous future.

As we embark on a journey to connect with this trailblazer, our sights are set on featuring her story in our esteemed “Africa Catalyst” magazine. Tosin Olaseinde’s narrative is one of triumph against the odds, of realizing a vision, and of empowering countless individuals to rewrite their financial destinies. Her unwavering dedication to amplifying financial literacy stands as a beacon of hope, a torchbearer illuminating the path toward informed financial decisions and a more prosperous tomorrow.

See other Engine Room for the week here

Engine Room: Jennie Nwokoye – Pioneering HealthTech for Africa’s Wellness

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Engine Room: Jennie Nwokoye – Pioneering HealthTech for Africa’s Wellness

In our “Engine Room” series, we shine a radiant light on the exceptional individuals driving brands, orchestrating behind-the-scenes efforts, and leading the way with unwavering determination. This edition unveils a lineup of extraordinary figures, and among them stands Jennie Nwokoye, a visionary entrepreneur and founder of the Nigerian healthcare startup, Clafiya. Her journey from a graduate student specializing in systems engineering to the helm of Clafiya is a tale of innovation, dedication, and transformative impact.

Jennie Nwokoye’s story began in 2018 during her tenure as a graduate student at Georgetown University in the United States. Immersed in the world of systems engineering, she embarked on a journey that would birth the revolutionary concept of Clafiya. Derived from the words “community wellness,” Clafiya stands on a profound mission – to foster healthy communities across Africa and beyond, starting from its roots in Nigeria.

Jennie Nwokoye

At its core, Clafiya seeks to reshape healthcare access in Nigeria, and by extension, the world. In a region grappling with healthcare disparities, Jennie’s brainchild emerges as a beacon of hope. By seamlessly merging technology and wellness, Clafiya offers a fresh perspective on how healthcare services are delivered and accessed, setting new benchmarks for community well-being.

A testament to Clafiya’s prowess, the startup recently garnered significant attention in July 2023 by securing an impressive $610,000 in pre-seed funding. This influx of capital stands as a testament to the faith investors have in Clafiya’s mission and its potential to redefine healthcare paradigms. This funding injection will undoubtedly fuel Clafiya’s expansion, enabling it to reach even more individuals in need.

As Clafiya’s influence burgeons, it’s evident that Jennie Nwokoye is indeed changing the narrative of healthcare accessibility in Nigeria. Her relentless pursuit of a healthier, more connected society is a testament to her commitment to make a tangible difference. Her journey from academic realms to a trailblazing entrepreneur exemplifies the power of a vision nurtured with passion and expertise.

In recognition of her profound impact, we are thrilled to announce that Jennie Nwokoye will soon grace the pages of our Africa Catalyst magazine. Her journey, insights, and success story will undoubtedly inspire and resonate with our readers, underscoring the transformative potential of dedication, innovation, and a heart committed to driving change.

Stay tuned as we delve deep into Jennie Nwokoye’s story, a narrative that mirrors the very essence of our “Engine Room” series – celebrating those who ignite change, empower communities, and pave the way for a brighter, healthier future.

See other Engine Room for the week here

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