YFM'S JAY FOLEY TO REPRESENT GHANA AT THE 2012 EUROPEAN MUSIC AWARDS

One of Ghana’s leading  entertainment radio and TV presenters, Jay Foley has been chosen by MTV and Multichoice Ghana to represent Ghana at the upcoming 19th annual MTV European Music Awards (MTV EMA) slated for the 11thof November, 2012  in Frankfurt, Germany.

Jay Foley remarked ‘I am extremely happy to be recognized by Multichoice and MTV as a contributor to the entertainment industry. The MTV EMA’s is one of the biggest awards ceremony in the history of world music and it is a privilege for me to represent my country as one of the media persons from across the world on such a big platform’.

Jay Foley’s all-expense paid trip to Frankfurt, Germany will last for three days and he will have the opportunity to tour Germany and share the same auditorium with world big stars in the likes of Jay Z, Kanye West, Rihanna, Nicki Minaj, Taylor Swift, Alicia Keys, Pit Bull, Justin Bieber, Katy Perry, just to mention a few, on the night of the MTV EMA.

A statement released and signed by Head of Public Relations for Global Media Alliance, Rosemond Aryeetey noted that ‘this year has really been a blessing for Y FM and its listeners. Just after Global Media Alliance, the mother company of Y FM won the CIMG media company of the year award, three of Y FM’s presenters picked three prestigious awards in the Globa RTP awards, and now, Jay Foley has been selected to represent Ghana at the MTV European Music awards. It is a great achievement and on behalf of the Y FM crew and our cherished listeners, I congratulate Jay Foley for his nomination to represent Ghana at the MTV EMA in Frankfurt, Germany. We are also happy to collaborate once again with Multichoice after other collaborations such as Big Brother.”

Head of Communications at MultiChoice Ghana, Anne Sackey reiterated MultiChoice’s commitment to bringing world class entertainment to the doorstep of Ghanaians.

BY: Ameyaw Debrah

"THE VERSATILE SHOW" SLATED FOR DECEMBER

Something is coming. Something never-seen-before is coming. Something very huge is coming!

It is something so matured in artistry, sensationally packed in content and rivetingly spiked with style and creativity. It is something no artiste in the country had probably ever done or even envisaged in recent history.

But it is coming to, first, whet your appetite; second, sustain your interest; and last but not the least, provoke an encore show in the years ahead.

And it is because of no other than him that it is coming. Yes, him! Okyeame Kwame, the man many music-lovers prefer to call all sorts of name and titles in celebration of his unique talent, relevance and ingenuity: the Best Rapper Alive (BRA), the Rap Doctor, Mr. Versatile, and what have you!

BABIE OF TV3 "HOT GOSSIP" GOOFS ON TV

In an era where information is easily accessed via the internet and with the aid of social media, it is very imperative for media personalities to equip themselves with the right information through proper research before airing their shows and not just put out any uninformed news.

Although I’m not so much a fan of ‘Hot Gossip’ on TV3, I took pains to watch the programme this Saturday, October 27 and to my utmost surprise, the host congratulated winners of Ghana DJ Awards and called it a “great event”; an event which was not held and postponed due to technical hitches, according to organizers of the event.

In as much others would want to save her head because the show was pre-recorded, the question that comes to mind is, “Couldn’t the show have been edited as the they had well over 12 hours on their hands before airing the show on Saturday?”

Some of these practices therefore leave me to wonder if one can trust the ‘Hot Gossip’ anchor and her team to give us the right information.

BY:News One

I SUPPORT AKUFO-ADDO - BARIMA SIDNEY

Barima Sidney who was explaining the controversy surrounding GTV’s refusal to air two of his latest videos says he supports the candidature of Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo but not a member or an associate of the NPP.

Speaking on Luv FM’s Private Party with Austine, he said his style is unique and that he is just a political musician; one who does music about issues of currency in the nation.

Sidney revealed that his current songs are not for any political party even though he has made campaign jingles for the opposition NPP and the new political firebrand, NDP.

...with A-Plus On whether his latest singles are anti-NDC, he responded in the negative but revealed that “the NDC wanted to use ‘Ghana Money’ for their campaign in the previous election but I declined their offer”.

IS REQUEL'S "LOV DOVI" THE BIGGEST MODERN HIGHLIFE SONG OF THE YEAR?

Raquel seems to be musically unstoppable. She gave Ghana ‘Odo’, then she did it last year in a collective effort to bring  'Sweetio' to  life, the songstress also brought us  ‘Set Me Free’ and  now she has single-handedly delivered another commercial classic masterpiece called ‘Lovi Dovi’ !.Audio: My Lovi Dovi by Raquel

Touching base with Raquel before the press release, she describes Lovi Dovi as a Fun, Happy Love Song, with very simple words.

She also pointed out that she kept it simple because she wants the song to cut across from the young to the old. Everyone will love and dance to this record as she ends her statement with a beautiful smile”.

LORD KENYA MARKS TWO YEARS IN CHRIST WITH MUSIC AND PRAYERS

Scores of residents of Kumasi and beyond trooped to the Jubilee Park to join hands with Evangelist Lord Kenya in a three-day event to celebrate his two years of ‘walking with Christ’.

It was nights of testimonies, music and prayers as stars and fans of the Ghanaian hip-life music icon fellowshipped and prayed for peaceful Election 2012.

“It’s been marvelous and awesome, it just beats my imagination. My faith has been built for the past three days because the Lord has demonstrated that when He calls you, His grace abound”, an excited born-again Kenya exclaimed.

Lord Kenya, the multiple award winning ‘rap heavyweight champion’, was ‘arrested’ by the Holy Spirit two years ago as he sought supply of drugs at his usual ‘wee’ joint.

'TIES THAT BIND' HITS INTERNATIONAL MOVIE MARKET

The award-winning  film, Ties That Bind hits major online platforms today via distributor Image Entertainment. Starring alongside Hollywood sweetheart Kimberly Elise, Omotola plays the role of Adobea, a terminally ill woman, who teams up with fellow women, Theresa(Elise)and Buki(Ama K Abebrse, bound together by a common pain, the loss of a child. In a destined meeting in a village in Kroboland, the women journey together to love, life and redemption.

The film also stars Ebbe Bassey, John Dumelo, David Dontoh and Hollywood star Randall Batinkoff who plays Dan Dubick. For fans in North America, Ties That Bind will be available on iTunes,
Amazon, Vudu, Xbox and YouTube. Produced by Turning Point Pictures the film was a cinema success across Africa. Its various premieres in countries including USA, Canada, and Nigeria with Ghana registering one of the biggest audiences ever.

‘Ties That Bind’ is rated as one of the dynamic movies of recent times considering its cast and story. It was also screened at different international film festivals around the world to include:

Official Selection – American Film Institute’s New African Films Festival; Samsung International Womens’ Film Festival, India;Winner, Best Diaspora film – San Diego Film Festival; Nominated Best Director, Leila Djansi – San Diego Black Film Festival; Nominated, Kimberly Elise, Best Actress – American Black Film Festival; Winner, Best Screenplay/story – African Movie Academy Awards; official Selection -Pan African Film Festival; Official Selection -San Diego Black Film Festival; 9 awards – Ghana Movie awards; and official Selection – WOCAF

DRAKE DEDICATES DIPLOMA TO MOTHER

Drake dedicated his high school diploma to his mother who is a retired teacher, when he recently graduated 10 years after dropping out of high school.
Drake dedicated his high school diploma to his mother.

The 25-year-old Canadian rapper - who dropped out of school 10 years ago - received his high school diploma earlier this month after months of hard work and paid tribute to his mother in an emotional speech.

He said: "I can honestly say that, this piece of paper, I'd like to dedicate to my mother, because she's a retired teacher and always wanted me to graduate. And I think I'll sleep a little better tonight knowing that I found a way to follow through."

OKYEAME KWAME VERSATILE SHOW COUNTDOWN REALITY SERIES HITS TV SCREENS

After lots of anxious wait and publicity, the countdown to the ‘Okyeame Kwame Versatile Show’ has finally begun as the reality series that comes with the Album launch cum staged event hit the TV screens.

Dubbed the "The Versatile Show Countdown", it gets to throw light on preparations toward the show right from audition, rehearsals to the main event on December 14, 2012. The Countdown will showcase the fun times during rehearsals, stressful times and emotional moments when O.K can't carry on but must dance his way through.


In the very first episode which aired on Gh One, Okyeame Kwame was on to warm viewers and fans alike about what to expect with the reality series. The 21-minutes reality show shot at the Oak Plaza in Accra segmented the maiden episode into Okyeame Kwame yesterday, now, and in the future.
The first episode caught the CEO of Roverman Productions; James Ebo Whyte affectionately called Uncle Ebo Whyte, who is handling the Theatre aspect of the event.

MISS MALAIKA @ 10 – A DECADE OF BOREDOM

This year’s Miss Malaika theme should have been a decade of Boredom and not a decade of beauty as the hyped event was not only too boring but poorly patronized.

Readers will bear witness to the fact that a Malaika final has always pulled a huge following but unfortunately not a similar situation was recorded last night at the AICC – Main hall as the 10 elegant ladies fought for the grand and prestigious prize.


Truth be told, even though NanaYaw18.com congratulates the organizers on their 10th anniversary, many including our humble self expected something more than just a mess up event just like what they have been giving us all these 9 years. Nothing separates this year from past years, honestly.

Let’s review the boredom of Miss Malaika 2012, beginning with, due to poor attendance of the show the event dragged so long such that after hours of waiting for people to turn up who were nowhere to be found, production wise, it affected the show, the opening act did not make sense, a carnival feeling was not created and in fact the cake cutting at the beginning of the show was so unnecessary plus wrong timing.

AKI AND PAWPAW VISIT DELTA STATE FLOOD VICTIMS

Nollywood stars, Chinedu Ikedieze and Osita Iheme popularly known as Aki and Pawpaw respectively, were recently in Delta State, South Nigeria to visit victims of floods in that state.

According to information gathered by Nigeriafilms.com, the duo were invited by the state governor, Emmanuel Uduaghan to psychologically help the victims of the natural disaster that hit some communities across Nigeria.

Aki and Pawpaw were reportedly well received by the victims of the flood who were happy to see their movie stars come visit with them in their time of trouble.

The two make-believe stars didn't fail to deliver the succour they were contracted to render at the rehabilitation camps set up in Delta State for the flood victims.

From: Nigeriafilms

TUESDAY, OCT. 30 IS EXACTLY NINE YEARS AFTER TERRY BONCHAKA'S DEATH

Tuesday, October 30, is exactly nine years Ghanaians were hit with the sad news of the death of talented hiplife musician Terry Bonchaka, born Terry Adjetey.

Terry, who was the grandson of former Speaker of Parliament Peter Ala Adjetey and graduate of Adisadel College, died in a car crash after a show at the University of Ghana in October 2003.

Terry's first place in the Miss Ghana Music competition along with his appearance on Joy FM’s Night with the Stars concert shot him into prominence on the hiplife scene.

He died unexpectedly after thrilling fans with several hit songs including his iconic Pulele song which came with a unique dance.

BLESS THE MIC HIP-HOP NATION KICKS OFF IN ACCRA

This year’s Bless The Mic Hip-Hop Nation is ready to take Ghana by storm. MiPrime Entertainment official organiser’s are excited to announce the activities and artist performing live at the Amphitheatre and the new Lapaillotte stage. Join in the celebration of good music and arts over the course of 4 days beginning 30th November 2012 PRESS Launch of HIP-HOP NATION 2012 @ Exhibition pavilion, Alliance Francaise.
 

1ST November 2012 “FACE OFF” Dance Battle @ 7pm, Amphitheatre Alliance Franciase GHc2 Cedis; 2nd November 2012  Open mic session | Spoken word | Freestyle battle 7pm Amphitheatre Alliance Franciase Hosted by Pope Skinny (Adom Fm – Kasahari) GHc 5 Cedis; 3RD    November 2012 GRAFFITI & LIVE HIP-HOP CONCERT Lapaillotte Stage, Alliance Francaise featuring Ghana’s most gifted mc’s M.anifest, J-Town, D Black, Lousika, Gemini, Jada Sparkles & Deniece (formally with the group R&M) All backed up by AFRO HARMONY BAND. This event will be hosted by JOEL (Y107.9 fm) and entry is GHc 20 Cedis.

Bless The Mic Hip-Hop Nation is sponsored by Samsung, Red Bull, Ticket Ghana and Apple Pie Publicity. Media partners Y107.9fm, Xfm, Viasat 1, GH One, 4syte TV, Sound City, Channel O, Africanhiphop.com, Phamous TV, E Live, AmeyawDebrah.com, Ghanamusic.com,CypressGH.com, OMG Ghana and GH Streets.com.

KING AYISOBA, KOO NIMO, FUSE ODG, SKUULFO FOR KORA AWARDS

Four Ghanaian artistes, King Ayisoba, Koo Nimo, Fuse ODG, Skuulfo have been nominated in the 2012 Kora Awards which is Africa’s foremost music awards.

Founded in 1994 by Ernest Adjovi, a businessman originally from Benin, the ceremony rewards the best artists of Africa and its Diaspora. It Awards has over the years awarded some of Africa’s finest musicians.

This year’s awards comes off at the Palais des Congrès de l’Hotel Ivoire in Abidjan on December 29.

Ghanaian-born-UK based artiste, Fuse ODG has been nominated in the Best Male West Africa category for his Azonto song which features Tiffany. He will battle out that category with Molare from Côte d’Ivoire, DJ Arafat (Côte d’Ivoire), D Banj (Nigeria), Sekouba Bambino (Guinea) and Flavour (Nigeria).

Gospel music group Askuulfo known for that hit song Adandesie will faceoff with Landry Foua Bi (Côte d’Ivoire), Yvan (Benin), Thocco Katimba (Malawi), Carlam (Gabon), Mesach Semakula feat Dj Michael (Uganda) for the Best Male Gospel of the year.

P-SQUARE DENIES KILLING MUM FOR FAME AND WEALTH

Our journey into the music world

It started like a dream but today, we thank God all the glory because it has become a reality. When we started, we had late Michael Jackson as our mentor. That was why in one of our songs titled, Busy Body which we released about 12 years ago, we tried to copy Michael Jackson’s dance steps.

Then, our fans used to call us, Paul and Peter. He influenced our musical career. We were challenged by Michael Jackson’s huge achievements in the world of music. We said to ourselves, if Michael Jackson could do all of these, we could equally do better. So, we tried our best and by the grace of God and our fans, we have realize our dreams.

EIGHTEEN YEAR- OLD SHARON CROWNED MISS MALAIKA 2012

Eighteen year-old High School graduate, Bridget Sharon Cofie was at the wee hours of Sunday crowned winner of the tenth anniversary of the Miss Malaika beauty pageant which came off at the Accra International Conference Centre.

She beat nine other hopefuls, Anima, Frances, Aisha, Ama, Regina, Ella, Sadia, Sonia and Edlyn after ten months of intensive grooming and a night of fashion, beauty, brains and entertainment in front of a packed audience.

After Sadia and Frances were crowned the Miss Talent and Miss Photogenic respectively, the ten delegates were cut down to the Top 5 - Ama, Anima, Sadia, Sharon and Regina.

Edlyn, Sharon, Ama and Frances all emerged winners of Miss Congeniality after the ten finalists voted for their favourite contestant.

After a talent show and a Question and Answer session with Kafui Dey, host of the popular television series, Who Wants To Be Rich, MCs for the night, Chris Attoh and Naa Ashokor declared Sharon the winner.

Regina Anne Dei Van-Helvert and Sadia Sanusi won first and second runner-ups respectively.

Apart from the beauty and brains on display on the night, patrons were thrilled to some exciting performances from Nigerian star, Darey, Edem, D-Black and R2Bees. 

From: Ghana | Myjoyonline.com | Ernest Dela Aglanu 

“MUSICIANS NEED POLICIES TO SECURE OUR FUTURE" SARDOIE POKES PRES. MAHAMA

The year 2012 seems to be holding enormous awards for Ghana's Best rapper, Sarkodie. The 24 year old 'Rapperholic' has been applauded by the Government of Ghana with the 'Best Youth Achiever' award in the MUSIC department. He won alongside Ghana's super songstress, Rebecca Acheampong (Becca).

Performing at the night of the awards, Sarkodie took to his spoken voice to address the dignitaries present at the event of which the first gentleman of Ghana, President Mahama chaired. To him, traveling around the world has opened his eyes wide on the policies that caress his colleague musicians abroad. Performing his hit song 'Sherifa' and other songs on the Rapperholic Album, he posited that, there should be policies to feed musicians even when their songs are no more on the 'hit lists'. He added that his yet to be born children should be able to get 3 square meals from the songs he has smooched the night clubs and parties with. "All these boil down to policies the government will put in place to support the Act", he explained.

The expression on his face portrayed how he had harboured this in him for a long time and awaiting the chance to speak it out. Not ending there, he rapped his lines in the 'Pizza and Burger' song which mainly addresses the ills of society. President Mahama could not have any other means of showing how he had been poked than applaud him.
 

congratulates Sarkodie on another award and wishes him another win at the Channel O MTV Awards.


Author: Nana Kwesi Coomson (www.233times.com)

DEE MONEEY LINKS UP WITH E.M.E'S SHAYDEE

Fast-rising Hip-Life/Hip-Hop artist and performer DEE MONEEY is proud to present his brand new single titled “Don’t Say No”.

Produced by award-winning producer Gafacci and featuring E.M.E Records’ very own Shaydee, Dee Money’s “Don’t Say No” is an excellent future hit record that is not only poised to take over the clubs and dance floors in the coming weeks but is also set for massive radio success in Nigeria, Ghana and the rest of Africa.

Sonically backed a lush synth-heavy bassline, grand piano arrangements and infectious drum patterns brilliantly put together by Gafacci, “Don’t Say No” sees Dee Moneey and Shaydee both in their true artistic elements with Dee Moneey showcasing his catchy flow, thrilling wordplay and lyrical dexterity and Shaydee showing us exactly why Banky W and E.M.E Records signed the young crooner with a smooth and enthralling vocal performance that will knock your socks off.

EXPECTATIONS BUILD UP TOWARDS SARKODIE'S 10.11.12 CONCERT

After dropping hints on Friday about about Sarkodie’s concert on November 10, it has become official that the celebrated and award-winning rapper will thrill fans to a one of a kind concert on 10.11.12 at the University of Ghana.  There are already billboards in town with the inscription,”you know what time it is” and www.youknowwhattimeitisghana.com  written on them.

The website features Sarkodie’s face, autograph, catch phrase and date of the concert. Ticketing details are not out yet but sources say that it isn’t a free concert either.  The upcoming concert is to show appreciation to his fans for supporting him all through his carrier and especially his success journey. The two-time Ghana Music Award Artist of the Year earlier this year won the BET Award for Best African Act and has nominations in the upcoming MOBO Awards and Channel O Awards.  He also recently bagged a National Youth Achievement Award and the Headies Award for Best African Act.

Sarkodie is an inspiration and should serve as a model to all young Ghanaian’s and Africans as a whole; the concert aims to encourage people to work towards achieving their goals.

BY:Ameyaw Debrah

D-BLACK EYES CHANNEL O AWARD WIN THIS YEAR AS AWARDS DATE

Black da Ghana Bwouy and most definitely the man with the most popular song in Ghana at the moment ‘OH VERA’ is adamant that Ghana must win this year at the Channel O Awards.

He endears his fans and fans of Ghanaian music to vote massively at the Channel  Awards for Ghana to win this year.

The Four time Channel O Award nominee D-Black has this to say ‘There has only been one Ghanaian win in the history of the Channel O Awards and that was last year by Samini in the Best Reggae Dancehall Category after being nominated 7 times he finally got one for Ghana. Let’s keep pushing it’.

Let’s do this for Ghana this year and Txt 12A to 0027839208406 or click here: http://awards.dstv.com/channelo/nominee.html?cat=144&nom=1574 to VOTE for D-Black ft. Mo Cheddah (Nigeria) – Falling.

The Channel O Awards comes off on Saturday 17th November in Johannesburg, South Africa.

D-Black also tops this years MTN 4Syte TV Music Video Awards with seven (7) nominations in the categories of most Popular video for ‘VERA’, Best Storyline for ‘VERA’, Best Hiphop Video for ‘The Revelation’, Best Collaboration, Best Directed Video, Best Photography and Best Overall Video of the year for ‘Falling’ ft. Mo Cheddah from Nigeria.

Don’t forget to Vote for Ghana’s D-Black by Txting  12A to 0027839208406 or click here: http://awards.dstv.com/channelo/nominee.html?cat=144&nom=1574

BEAUTY QUEEN HOPE TO CHANGE WANLOV

It appears that if Sadia Sanusi, the 2nd runner-up of the just ended Miss Malaika beauty pageant, had her own way, Wanlov would be a whole lot different from what his fans and detractors know him to be. When Sadia was asked in her ‘break or make question’ during the finale that, which celebrity would she like to reform if she had the power to do so, she singled out the controversial and care-free musician.  She explained that Wanlov hasn’t been a good role model and that the biggest reform she would like to see in Wanlov would be an appreciation of the fact that certain parts of the human body should not be exposed.

Wanlov is noted for going about town and performing with no underwear beneath his waist wraps.  A video in which Wanlov showed his penis to TV hostess Deloris ‘Delay’ Frimpong-Manso during a taping for the Delay TV Show leaked on the internet earlier in the year.  He is also noted for walking barefooted so there is surely a lot of covering up for him to learn in order for Sadia’s wishes to come true.

BY: Ameyaw Debrah

GHANA DJ AWARDS RUNS INTO A DITCH, POSTPONED INDEFINITELY

The Ghana DJ Awards 2012 which was scheduled for Friday October 26, at the National Theatre in Accra has been hit by a deadly blow and has been postponed again, this time indefinitely.

Patrons who went to the National Theatre to see the magicians who bring life to records behind turntables were left with nothing but disappointment when they met a ‘no show’ atmosphere.

The official twitter handle of the event, @ghanadjawards, tweeted “For reasons beyond our control we regret to announce that the 2012 Ghana DJ Awards has been called off .”

One of the nominees expected to grab an award on the night, DJ Mensah, also tweeted “Due 2technical problems-Ghana Dj awards has Postponed..spread the news people.”

The event, aimed at promoting and rewarding the best achieving Ghanaian Radio, Night Club and “recognized” mobile Disk Jockeys (DJ) put together by Merqury Republic Events, has been designed to bring more excitement to the DJ profession in Ghana.

FETISH PRIESTESS CURSES CASTRO?

The health condition of Hiplife artiste Castro De Destroyer real name Theophilus Tetteh has been in the media for a couple of days now since Television hostess Baby Dapaah mentioned last Saturday on her “Hot Gossip” programme aired on TV3 that Castro is seriously sick, he can’t walk and that his health condition is getting worse by the day.

This some section of the media has interpreted as spiritual and linked it to an issue that came up in the media that Castro has refused to fulfill a promise he made to a so called fetish woman after she helped him spiritually to make his album a hit.

There are rumors all over the media that Castro has been attacked by illness as a result of the fetish woman who cursed him on Okay FM few months ago when she was interviewed.

COPTIC PRESENTS LOUSIKA & KWAW KESE ON "SHUT EM DOWN" TRACK

The second single off The Rising Stars of GH Mixtape Volume one is set for release and this time features multilingual F’emcee Lousika and the man who brought madness into the music scene and made it beautiful, Kwaw Kese.

The single titled “Shut Em Down” was produced by US based GH producer Coptic to turn non believers of female rappers to believers. Audio: Shut Em Down by Coptic presents Lousika & Kwaw Kese

The whole album is dropping online for free downloads this Christmas (December 25th) as part of The Black Star Line project to promote the underground who Coptic believes to be the future of our growing hip hop industry.

REGGIE ROCKSTONE SUPPORTS BREAST CANCER AWARENESS CAMPAIGN

October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month, a time when women around the globe get together to stand up for the cause — including our favourite celebrities leading the campaign.

It's surprise to see Reggie Rockstone join forces with Pixie Dust to help in this project .

The hiplife grand papa and GLO ambassador, Reggie urges people to join them in their support of National Breast Cancer Awareness Month and the fight towards finding a cure.

Reggie Rockstone is also encouraging the women around you to perform their monthly breast exam.

You can help support the Radiology Unit at the Korle-Bu Teaching by sending your donation via Airtel Money using the nickname 'pixiedust' or send an email to donations@pixiedust.org.gh or walk into any GT Bank and donate to Pixie Dust Account (201106053110).

BY: Nii Atakora Mensah, Ghana Music.com

IDRIS ELABA TO BECOME NEXT JAMES BOND?

Idris Elba is in talks to replace Daniel Craig as the next 007, but he is wary about being known as "the black James Bond".

The 'Prometheus' actor is in talks with producer Barbara Broccoli to take over from Daniel as the iconic British spy in the future, making him the first black 007 agent to grace the big screen.

New Bond girl Naomie Harris - who plays Eve in the latest chapter 'Skyfall' - said: "I didn't realize that there was this talk and then I did a film with Idris and he said that he met Barbara Broccoli and that it does seem like there is a possibility in the future that there could very well be a black James Bond.

"And I would have to vote for Idris because I just finished working with him and he's a great guy."

LIL WAYNE HOSPITALISED AND RELEASED

Rapper Lil Wayne has been hospitalised after reportedly suffering seizure-like symptoms during a flight on Thursday.

The hip-hop star fell suddenly ill while travelling in his private jet, prompting the pilot to make an emergency landing in Texas.

The 'Lollipop' hitmaker was transported to a local hospital, where he received treatment for several hours.

He was reportedly discharged around 6:00pm local time and is now said to be "doing better", reports Tmz.com.

From: Contactmusic

DJ ABRANTEE AND OMOTOLA HONOURED BY BEFFTA

Ghanaian DJ, DJ Abrantee and Nollywood actress Omotola Jalade Ekeinde are among some personalities given special awards ahead of this year’s BEFFTA Awards scheduled to come off at the Hippodrome, Golders Green in London Saturday.

The BEFFTA Awards (Black Entertainment Film Fashion Television and Arts) ceremony annually honours the best showbiz and entertainment personalities in the black and other ethnic communities in the UK, USA, Africa, Caribbean, Canada and globally.

DJ Abrantee, born Abrantee Boateng, and Omotola are among five personalities organisers of the awards announced as recipients of special honour at the event.

NANA ACHEAMPONG TO BURY FATHER

Ace musician Nana Acheampong who lost his father OP Samuel Kofi Acheampong two weeks ago will lay his father to rest on October 26 at Juaben, Ano, Ashtown.

The musician who was shocked at his father death while in Germany thanks who have been supportive this far.

According to him the father who died at age 85 has helped him a lot and therefore invites all who want to attend the funeral.

Funeral rites takes place on October 27 and thanksgiving at Juaben, Wesley Methodist Church.
 

BY: Ghana Music.com

OBUOR MARKS FIRST YEAR ANNIVERSARY AS MUSIGA PRESIDENT

The current administration of the Musicians Union of Ghana, led by Bice Osei Kuffour clocked one year in office in September. In celebration of the anniversary, the President and Executives called for a briefing of musicians, media persons, stakeholders in the creative arts industry, other stakeholders such as the World Bank, KPMG and Midland Savings and Loans and the general public to inform them of activities over the past year.

In the President’s speech, which encompassed and elaborated on key issues and activities of his administration, he expressed his gratitude to all who believed in him enough and voted him to become the president of the Union with a four year mandate and to the team he has been blessed to work with since he became President. When he assumed office, he implemented the MUSIGA AJUMAPA Vision which was meant to rebrand the Union, reposition it in a more positive light and a promise of transparent and accountable governance, create jobs, promote unity and to push for appropriate policies for the Musicians.

 The President summarized some of the key activities of the Union over the year and classified them into five main headings which are Union-led activities, ongoing projects, achievements, welfare and challenges.

SARKODIE TO HEADLINE “ItsOurTimeGh” CAMPAIGN

Its official! After bagging several international awards and nominations, Ghanaian rapper, Sarkodie will headline a campaign dubbed ‘ItsOurTimeGH’ in November which is aimed at promoting Sarkodie as a successful musical icon from Ghana.

The campaign is expected to culminate in grand #ItsOurTimeGh concert at the University of Ghana on November 10.  This is expected to be a warmer to Sarkodie’s second ‘Rapperholic Concert’ which is rumoured to return this December.  The #ItsOurTimeGh concert is expected to thrill Sarkodie fans, as the rapper will perform two exclusive songs on the night. Sarkodie is also expected to be joined by a top Nigerian musician.

VODAFONE GHANA PRESENTS THE ULTIMATE BLACKBERRY PARTY

There is only one place to be this Saturday which is the Ultimate BlackBerry Ping Party.  Vodafone presents the Ultimate Blackberry ‘Ping Party’ at the four-star superior first class hotel, Golden Tulip hotel Accra, this Saturday, 27th October, 10pm.

Join Ghana’s Female Presenter of the Year, Jeremie of YFM and friends, as they party with great food, drinks and  good music by DJ Vision.

Grab your tickets from Golden Tulip reception or Silver Lounge, Accra Mall.

The BlackBerry Ping Party was conceived by Vodafone as a celebration in appreciation of Vodafone blackberry users.

"OKYEAME KWAME VERSATILE SHOW" REGISTERS HIGH TURNOUT AT AUDITIONS

Preparations for the ‘Okyeame Kwame Versatile Show’ have begun in an intense passion.  The show which seeks to combine Theatre, Music and Dance on one stage on one night kick-started with auditions at the School of Performing Arts, University of Ghana over the weekend.

In attendance were very enthusiastic people of all ages coming to audition for various roles. Panelist had to make a selection from the over a hundred and fifty dancers, skaters and acrobats who showed up. Those who are chosen will make history together with Okyeame Kwame by performing with him and other artistes on the event night.

The audition panel which comprised renowned Dance Choreography and lecturer, Prof. Nii Yartey and son, Nii Tete, Kofi Antonio, also a dance tutor and LaTina Rencher (dancer and dance trainer from the US) was highly impressed with the talents that were on display. Kofi Antonio, the choreographer of the event was elated by the numbers, enthusiasm and sheer talents of those who came to audition. He was full of praise for the dancers who were auditioned and promised to bring out the very best in them for the show so they all make history together by staging the first of such a show in Ghana.

Nii Tete said he was thrilled at the idea of fusing music, theatre and dance in one show, and was full of praise for the initiator of the concept Okyeame Kwame. “I am impressed with the immense amount talent displayed by the young dancers and acrobats, and I thank them for willing to share their talents with the rest of the world on such a stage”, he said excitedly.

After promising to give out his best, he added that, it is for all Ghanaian arts and music lovers to come to the National Theatre in their numbers on December, 14th to throw their weight behind Okyeame Kwame. “Okyeame Kwame to me represents a generation of young people who want to push the arts and music to its deserved heights and needs everyones help”.

The ‘Okyeame Kwame Versatile Show’ comes with a TV reality series which starts airing soon on MultiTV and GHOne. The reality series will chronicle the journey of the event from auditions up to the final show at the National Theatre.

BY: Ameyaw Debrah

MISS GHANA FINALISTS TO HOLD KIDS BAZAAR IN AID OF ORPHANAGE

Finalists of the 2012 edition of the Miss Ghana pageant will this Saturday engage children from the length and breadth of Ghana, to a day’s fun-filled event at the Lizzy Sports Complex, East Legon.

Dubbed “Kids Bazaar” the day’s activities will include Basketball, Football, Volleyball, musical chairs, Bouncy Castles, dancing competition, and treasure hunt among other exciting Children-friendly games.

There will be lots of souvenirs to be won on the day.

The organizers Exclusive Events Ghana say they are hopeful the event will put smiles on the faces of the children who will be attending.

The event starts from 10:00am through to 5:00pm.

Proceeds from the event will go to the Teshie Orphanage.

The Miss Ghana 2012 Kids Bazaar is sponsored by Indomie, Africa Cola, Special Ice and Cowbell with support from Lizzy Sports Complex.

RADIO PRESENTER KWAME B CELEBRATES BIRTHDAY ON SATURDAY

Radio presenter extraordinaire Kwame B of Hitz103.9fm fame will on the 27th of October (this Saturday) inside Tema - campanilla Pub celebrate his excellence on radio coupled with his Birthday bash.

Kwame B is the host of the most listened to drive time radio program inside the capital called Crooze Control on Hitz fm every week day from 3-7pm but also doubles as a DJ hence comes this Saturday he promises a spectacular music selection sometime his listeners has not felt before.


According to his producer Mike Gizo popularly known as the wise one, he disclosed to nanayaw18.com that there will be an uncountable list of celebrities ranging from radio through to music and movies.

Gizo mentioned: ‘when it comes to achievement, Kwame B has chalked a lot of them. He has interviewed your favorite celebrities right from music to movies hence all the big names anybody can think off when it comes to entertainment in this country will be making an appearance at the birthday party’.

GURU CAMPUS TOUR & VIDEO PREMIER KICKS OFF ON FRIDAY

Empire records promised a spectacular Guru Campus tour & video premier and it is kicking of inside Sunyani Polytechnic auditorium this Friday on the 26th of October 2012 at 6pm sharp.

The tour train will then continue to Techiman on the 27th of October and finally end in Brekum on the 28th of October 2012.


In throwing more light on the tour with specifications on billed artiste for performance and venues was Mr. Daniel Obeng- Fianko known in showbiz circles as Cedis and he mentioned that the first show venue is the Sunyani Polytechnic auditorium.

He maintained: ‘the second show will be happening at the Techiman community center and the final one will be Brekum Vision hotel which will be a pool party event.’

Cedis continued as: ‘artistes billed to support Guru are Dcryme, Dadie Opanka, Danso Abiam, Gallaxy, Dobble, old Sodja and Ruff N Smooth.

He also confirmed that Guru will be premiering the much awaited video for the next official release of his next upcoming album – ‘Karaoke’ at all these venues hence fans should be ready to get thrilled in a wildest form.

NHYIRABA KOJO LAUNCHES ‘NHYIRABA KOJO CITY PUB’

After a launch of a successful music career, Hip Life artiste Nhyiraba Kojo known for his Too much blessing and money go flow slogans is all set and ready to launch a Pub coupled with a restaurant called – ‘Nhyiraba Kojo city’ located inside the Spintex road – 18 junction.

The launch of the Pub and restaurant will be happening this weekend; it is a two day event that is the 27 – 28th of October 2012 with appearances from celebrities.


In an exclusive interview with the artiste about the Pub and restaurant, Nhyiraba said: ‘by Gods grace the music has paved way for other things to follow that why I always say Too much blessing hence this is as a result of hard work and proper management system’.

He also noted that, the Pub will host a lot of different activities after the launch. Activities like Karaoke nights, celebrity appearance, Artiste nights and a lot more hence your recreations in the evening just got better with Nhyiraba Kojo city.

TRIGMATIC TO DROP NEW SINGLE FEATURING SARKODIE

Nana Yaw Oduro Agyei aka. Trigmatic is set to invade the airwaves in the next few days with his latest effort.

The 12th annual Ghana music awards rapper of the year is currently in the kitchen cooking things up with the #irishcream Ghana’s fastest rapper Sarkodie, with the Ghanaian Based Nigerian Singer A.J Omo Alajah on the hook.

The name of the track along with the producer was not known at the time of publication.

OMG! Ghana contacted Trig for more info on the record and, all we were told was “the song will be released on radio on November 1st and November 2nd on online platforms respectively”.



Source: Omgghana.com

GIVE SARKODIE A BREAK !!!

Sarkodie is one hapless chap in Ghanaian show business. This guy has won several awards on the local stage, annexed international awards, mounted the stage with legends like Chuck D of Public Enemy fame, achieved inestimable commercial success and has been featured predominantly in the international media.

For the propagation of Ghana Hip hop on the international platform, he ought to be a recipient of the ‘Order of the Volta’– deservedly, yet, the level of backlash he receives for the little perceived gaffes he commits is incredible. Video: Sarkodie, Talib Kweli & more at BET Hiphop Awards 2012 cypher

His latest howler: In a BET cypher presentation together with hip-hop great Talib Kweli and others, Sarkodie spewed out some verse that most Ghanaians deem as weak, languid and inane.

BORN STARZ SETS THE STAGE ON VIASAT ONE

Viasat 1 will begin broadcast of the new talent show Born Starz from this Saturday, October 20, 2012 at 8pm. This will be the first of 13 weeks of the show, with weekly highlights on Wednesdays at 8:30pm.

Born Starz is the first talent show by Viasat 1, aimed at unearthing and developing skills and talents from individuals and groups from all walks of life. With no age restrictions and talent barrier, the show gives the public an equal opportunity to exhibit their unique abilities.

There will be 11 audition shows with one act going through to the next level each week.

The 11 finalists will compete in the semi-finals on January 5, 2013; the lucky five will then take the stage on January 12, 2013 for the grand finale.

IS KAAKIE TURNING FROM THE "WORD" TO THE "WORLD"

While some secular musicians are converting to gospel, others who were nurtured in the church and are expected to sing gospel are rather doing secular music, a case in point being dancehall diva Kaakie.

I know there are a lot of secular musicians who were strong “chrife”, played church bands before switching to do secular music. I can mention Lucky Mensah and  Rex Omar. I even hear Ofori Amponsah was also a church boy before he was ‘stolen’ by the devil.

Stories of converted Lord Kenya, Ofori Amponsah and the likes tell us that most people  who do secular music engage in acts of ‘the world’: womanizing, smoking, debauchery, occultism, sexual immorality among others. Truly, these are acts that don’t become one who is in the Lord. Hallelujah, somebody!!!

Apart from secular musicians who may not have been brought up the Christian way, and so may have the high propensity to wallow in these acts of the world in pursuit of their career, it also holds true that those ”chrife” turned secular acts tend to sway to the side of the ‘world’ once they land on the turf of secular music.

For example, there are certain things secular musicians can do that a gospel musician must not do. A secular musician may advertise for an alcoholic drink but a gospel musician who does that promotes alcoholism which is not acceptable in Christiandom.

GHANA LAGS BEHIND

Thanks to Goethe Institute and Siemens South Africa, I was invited amongst a group of other entertainment journalists from 14 other African countries to meet in South Africa and contribute ideas on the inception of a portal, ‘music in africa’ - a platform that is supposed to centralize and sell African arts across Africa and rest of the world.

I am privileged to have had the opportunity of travelling to the USA, Europe and the Asia but never made a trip to any other African country, not even Togo; and so, I was pretty much enthralled by the visit to South Africa. My excitement was born out of the incessant talk of how South Africa is such a sight to behold, how the country has become the economic power of Africa and how opportunities abound in that country.

Boy, was I blown away by the magnificent infrastructure and level of development in that country? I was simply spellbinding.

STANDARD OF MUSIC IS FALLING. STOP SINGING IN SOLO, STOP DIRTY HIPLIFE MUSIC

Even though I have retired from actively teaching music in schools, churches (choirs) and in some societies (vocal bands), except composing songs, giving counselling and polishing some final strains of composed songs, enjoying music played on the radio or TV remains my great hobby now.

I must say pointblank that my musical vocation began at my early childhood when my two elder brothers who were good guitarists and musicians often entertained me with their music. And the musical inspirations I imbibed from them had their further additionals when, in my father’s village, I used to listen and dance to “Konkomma” songs led by some three Gold Coast ex-soldiers of 1939-45 world war who had been retired, alongside several others after their discharge from Burma and India.

The band probably derived its ‘Konkomma’ name from the onomatopoeic word: ‘Kon….kon….kon’ of the raw side-drum which was being beaten when the group was marching towards the street centre for the evening’s showbiz. Thus the musical group was called ‘Kon…kon’ mma” in Akan, meaning the ‘Kon…kon’ people.

GHANAIANS DON'T SUPPORT SECULAR ARTISTES WHO DIVERT TO GOSPEL

If some secular artistes who become born again and subsequently gospel artistes regret becoming so, it is perhaps due to the lack of support Ghanaians give to them. ‘Ghanaians are hypocrites’.

This is a statement that sounds harsh and derogatory but is a truism. Its truism is well placed in how Ghanaians as fans herald artistes when they are secular and the sudden drift of stand when such artistes become ‘born again’ and subsequently gospel artistes.

Since when God was calling those artistes no one was there to bear witness, we can only respect and also rejoice when secular artistes repent from their saturnalia lifestyles and become gospel artistes to sing devotionally for the Lord and mankind.

BOBBY BROWN ARRESTED FOR DUI IN LOS ANGELES

Bobby Brown was just arrested for DUI ... for the second time this year, TMZ has learned.

Law enforcement sources tell us, Brown was pulled over around 1AM when police observed the singer driving erratically on an L.A. street.

According to law enforcement sources, officers approached Brown's vehicle and detected a strong odor of alcohol -- at which point they asked Brown to get out of his car.

We're told Brown performed a field sobriety test, but didn't do very well -- so he was arrested on suspicion of DUI. He's currently being booked.

Brown was previously arrested for DUI in March and sought treatment for alcohol abuse issues over the summer. He also has a DUI conviction on his record from 1996.

ROB EVANS WANTED BY POLICE

The new judge on 'America's Next Top Model' is a wanted man ... after allegedly beating another person in Beverly Hills back in March -- law enforcement sources tell TMZ.

According to law enforcement sources, Rob Evans -- a former boxer -- is accused of beating the other guy up so bad, the victim ended up in the hospital with serious injuries. We're told Rob's boxer past is part of the reason he's wanted for felony assault with a deadly weapon.

We're told the warrant was issued for Evans' arrest soon after the incident, but Evans cooperated with police from the get go -- so they didn't need to track him down.

But that all changed in recent weeks, when cops say Evans suddenly went silent -- and stopped speaking to them.

MAN SHOT DEAD BY FRIEND AT VIENNA NITE CLUB

A young man believed to be in his mid 30s was shot dead Monday dawn at the Vienna Nite Club in Tema by his friend after he tried to stop the friend from firing a warning shot.

The man, whose name was only given as Arimi, was a car dealer who had gone to the club to chill with his friends when the unfortunate incident happened.

A source told Myjoyonline.com that the deceased was “separating a fight between his friend and some guys at the Vienna Nite Club Monday dawn. His friend pulled out his gun to give a warning shot and he tried to stop him and his friend mistakenly shot him.”

Other sources said the friend of the deceased who fired the gun hopped into his car and left the scene after the incident and is currently on the run.

An eyewitness narrated that “a man was giving warning shots and he confronted the man and told him to calm down before we realize the man shot him in the head and run away with his car...Arimi died on the spot,” he added.

HULK HOGAN LOSES BID FOR SEX TAPE TAPE INJUNCTION

Former wrestler Hulk Hogan has lost his bid for a temporary injunction against the website screening his sex tape.

The one-minute, 40-second snippet of Hogan and Heather Clem, ex-wife of Florida radio host Bubba The Love Sponge, emerged earlier this month on Gawker.com.

Hogan, real name Terry Bollea, has branded the sex tape the "low point" of his life and has filed separate lawsuits against Gawker, Bubba and Clem.

He also demanded a temporary injunction banning publication of the footage while the legal action is pending, but on Friday a judge refused the request.

KWABENA KWABENA AT HIS SURPRISE 34TH BIRTHDAY

Several Ghanaian stars were on deck to add to the element of surprise at a surprise birthday party for highlife singer, Kwabena Kwabena last week at The Traffic in Osu. Present at birthday party was Asem, Irene Logan, Okyeame Kwame, Mark Okraku Mantey and a host of others. Kwabena Kwabena, who turned 34, was called by his manager to meet a friend at The Traffic.  Kwabena Kwabena was pleasantly surprised when the said meeting turned out to be a hoax, his surprise birthday party. An excited Kwabena Kwabena thanked everyone who made to the party and said he’s never been surprised like this before.

By Ameyaw Debrah

MISS MALAIKA FINALISTS RETURN FROM FUN TRIP TO SOUTH AFRICA AND NAMIBIA

The final ten delegates of this year’s Miss Malaika@10 last Friday returned from their trip to South Africa and Namibia. They were received in Namibia with a press conference organized by the ministry of tourism in Namibia.

Whiles in Namibia they visited the tourist sites like Walvis Bay, Namib Nuklaf, Sea Island, the Windhoek Community Centre and the desert and in South Africa, the delegates went to Two Oceans Aquarium, Cape Point, Penguins Colony and Kirstenboch Botanical Gardens.

It was a fun filled trip to help the delegates relax before the main grand finale this Saturday October 27th at the conference centre. The grand finale promises to be exciting as the reality show is celebrating its tenth anniversary.