Saturday 31 May 2014

Boko Haram suspected as gunmen kill Nigerian traditional Muslim leader

Suspected members of the Boko Haram Islamist group, which
kidnapped 276 schoolgirls last month, gunned down a traditional
Muslim emir in an attack on a convoy in northeastern Nigeria on
Friday, the Borno state government said.

The Emir of Gwoza, Alhaji Idrissa Timta, was travelling with the
emirs of Uba and Askira to a attend a funeral when the suspected
Islamist gunmen opened fire on their car in Zhur, a remote
community in Borno state.

Since April 14, when the girls were taken, at least 500 civilians
have been killed by the militants, according to a Reuters count.
Timta died from gunshot wounds and two policemen were killed
while the other two emirs managed to escape, a source at the Emir
of Uba’s palace told Reuters, requesting anonymity.

“The Emir of Gwoza was killed around 9 a.m. today following a
bloody attack by some gunmen believed to be members of the
Boko Haram,” Borno state government said in a statement.

Sources had earlier told Reuters two of the traditional leaders had
been kidnapped, but the palace source said the emirs of Uba and
Askira had simply hidden for some time in the bush, leading to
fears they had been abducted.

Most of the vehicles in the convoy were destroyed, the source said.
Friday’s attack came as leaders from the 15-member Economic
Community of West African States [ECOWAS] met in Ghana to
discuss worsening insecurity in northern Nigeria and in Mali,
where Tuareg separatists routed government troops last week.

“We must act, and we must put in place measures that make clear
that we will not allow any of our countries to be used to
destabilize other nations,” Ghana’s President, John Dramani
Mahama, who holds the rotating presidency of the bloc, said at the
opening of the summit.

“ECOWAS must play a leading role in the effort to fully restore
peace and security to the subregion and by so doing safeguard our
future,” he said.

Nigeria’s head of counter-terrorism on Friday accused
neighbouring Cameroon, which is not an ECOWAS member, of
failing to make a serious effort to drive Boko Haram insurgents
from its territory.

Despite a year-long military offensive against it, Boko Haram,
which is fighting to reinstate an ancient Islamic caliphate in
northern Nigeria, has been able to run riot in the north east and
bomb cities across the country.

On Thursday, in the northeastern village of Gurmushi, near
Nigeria’s border with Cameroon, suspected Islamist gunmen riding
motor bikes killed 32 people.

Nigeria’s president Goodluck Jonathan said on Thursday he had
ordered a full-scale operation against Boko Haram and sought to
reassure parents of the 219 schoolgirls still being held by the
group that their children would be freed.

Boko Haram has been kidnapping schoolgirls and forcing them to
become “brides” for commanders for more than a year, but the
attack on Chibok last month shocked the world and prompted an
international effort to free them.

Ronnie remains on my mind — Bright

Six months after the death of his buddy-buddy, Ronnie Coaches, Prince Bright, the other half of the hip life duo, Buk Bak, says he is yet to pick up the pieces let alone record a new song.

Speaking in a telephone interview from his US base last Saturday,
Bright sounded completely down and shaken, almost as if Ronnie had
just died. “I wake up in the morning and the next thing I ask myself
is, where is Ronnie? I am not feeling cool at all,” he said.

Ronnie Coaches died on November 21, 2013 at the Korle Bu
Teaching Hospital after a short illness. The hit songs he and Bright
have been popular for include Komi Ke Kena, Gonja Barracks, U 4
Know, Chingilingi, Klu Blofo, Oburoni, Tankase and Kolom.
“All we did and talked about was music” Bright told Showbiz. “ He
would often call and ask me, ‘what are you doing in America? Come
and let’s make music’. We have done so much on all platforms, but
there was still a lot to be done.

“Ronnie used to push everything, he was the motivator. Let’s do this,
and he gets it done. He was my eyes and ears. I was the baby in Buk
Bak, he was always pampering me. I am still in shock,” he said.
“Ronnie respected himself, and we both stayed out of trouble, our
office was music, music was his everything. We never smoked or
drank alcohol, and we always believed in ourselves and never had a
beef with anyone. We used to have our little fights, just the two of us.
We fought to achieve good results,” he said.

Considering how peaceful Ronnie was, Bright said he was very sad
that all sorts of things were said about Ronnie after he passed on.
“We are all human beings, and it hurts so badly some of the things I
heard being said about my brother,” he said.

Bright said that they had lots of songs ready to go and Ronnie was
working so hard and waiting for him to come down so they could
shoot the music videos.

“As you know we don’t go by the trend, we sing from our hearts.”
Their last hit song before the death of Ronnie, Kolom, according to
Bright, was doing very well in Ireland and the US.

“I miss music but I miss Ronnie more. I don’t know where to start
from and where to end. I am looking up to God to make a way for
me.”

Bright used the opportunity to thank all who mourned with him
before, during and after the burial of Ronnie Coaches.

Source: graphic.com.gh

Friday 30 May 2014

Kosi Bone out now with ‘Menya’

Rap music in Ghana has gone through major evolution and has come with its own pool of talented rap stars.

Kosi Bone is just one of a kind you can never push back when counting budding rap acts of our time.

Another talented rapper from the Volta Region of Ghana where many stars like Chicago,Yaa Pono, EL, and the Koene hit maker Edem also hails from.
Kosi Bone is gradually making an official entry into Ghana’s industry with a dope rap skills couple with an outstanding stage craft that always will keep the crowd going gay.

After several years behind the scene preparing for a time like this time to blow up, Kosi Bone is officially releasing his debut ‘Menya’ produced by Dugudbeatz under the management of HDMedia Ghana.

.‘Menya’ is translated in ‘Ewe’ as ‘don’t you know’?  In other words ‘You need to know’.

The fusion of both the English and the local ‘Ewe’ language gives the song and different taste and class as hip-hop banger that will never fade away anytime soon.

According to Kosi Bone’s talent manager, Mr Justice Klutse ‘Menya’ is just one of the numerous street bangers that will be released by Kosi Bone before the year ends.

Not long thing MENYA is available via www.hulkshare.com/ShowbizGH

Funeral held for designer Kofi Ansah; body to be cremated

A funeral was held Friday at the forecourt of the State House for the
late fashion designer Kofi Ansah who died on Saturday, May 3 at the Korle-Bu Teaching Hospital.
The funeral was attended by several personalities including Kofi Okyere Darko (KOD), Becca, Efya, and Akorfa
Ejeani.

The funeral also witnessed some performances from Gyedu-Blay Ambolley and Akosua Agyapong. Some
models also modelled at the funeral in his honour.
The body of Kofi Ansah, who died at age 56, will be cremated.
The Man Kofi Ansah: Winner of the prestigious Ghana Quality Awards Diamond Division October 2003, for clothing and textile with
ARTDRESS LTD.

Kofi Ansah through his company was the winner of the prestigious Millennium 2000 African Fashion Awards. He
also designed the Anniversary fabric for the Ghana @ 50 Golden Jubilee Celebration.
Kofi Ansah also designed the costumes for the opening and closing ceremony of the CAN 2008 African Cup of
Nations which was staged in Ghana to an international acclaim.

Kofi Ansah was a renowned innovative and creative fashion designer. He was credited with the changing face of
the Ghanaian fashion landscape and a leader in the field of African Fashion Design. He was a founding member,
as well as a past president of the Federation of African Designers.

Kofi Ansah until his sudden death run Artdress, a design and creative concept company through which he
developed the art of clothing design, concept collections, and consultancy to develop products and company
promotions, and the marketing of their products through fashion shows.
His company has been the fashion consultant to G.T.P. now the leading textile company in the country since
1995.

Kofi Ansah believed he inherited his creative talents from his parents. His father who was a creator,
photographer, classical musician, encouraged him to pursue his interest in art and design.
He studied fashion design at the Chelsea School of Art in London and graduated with 1st class honours in
fashion design and distinction in design technology.

His distinct eye for detail and individuality with fabrics and color afforded him recognition as a couture
designer. The unique use of quilting, embroidery and appliqués are the design signature of Kofi Ansah.
His fashion designs were soon seen in the retail shops and boutiques of London. His fashions also appeared in
many retail stores and boutiques in the U.S. including Saks Fifth Avenue.
Kofi’s distinct elegant designs, though western styled, were never without the emphasis of his native homeland
of Ghana.

He returned to Ghana inspired to blend the richly textured and boldly colored fabrics into fashion collections that
have met a strong customer following in both Ghana and abroad.
Source: Myjoyonline.com

Saturday 24 May 2014

DJ Black Nominated For 2014 African Muzik Magazine Awards

One of Africa’s finest DJ brands and
household name in the Ghanaian musc
industry, Kwadwo Ampofo also known as DJ Black has been nominated (Best DJ Africa category) in maiden THE AFRICAN MUZIK MAGAZINE AWARDS (AFRIMMA).

The award ceremony that caters for all musical genres including including
Afrobeats, Assiko, Bongo, Decale, Funana, Genge, Highlife, Hiplife, Kwaito, Lingala and Soukous will be held at the plush Charles W. Eisemann Center for Performing Arts and Corporate Presentations in
Richardson, Texas on July 26th, 2014.

DJ Black was recently in Austin, Texas to present a paper on Digital Media/Music in Africa during 2013 SXSW Music Festival.

SXSW Music is the largest music festival of its kind in the world, with more than 2,200 official performers and bands playing in more than 100 venues.

Thursday 22 May 2014

Efya to share stage with Miley Cyrus, Flo Rida, Mariah Carey, D’banj, Others @ WMA 2014

Ghanaian singer Efya, who has been confirmed to perform on this year’s World Music Award(WMA) is set to share the stage with international music superstars from around the world.

Efya will perform alongside Nigerian music superstar D’banj, Mariah Carey, Ricky Martin, Flo Rida, Miley Cyrus, Leona Lewis, Jason Derulo and Fall Out Boy.

Efya’s smash hit song “Best in me” has received nominations in 5 different categories: World's Best Song, Best Female Artiste, World Best Live Act, World Best Entertainer of the Year and World Best Video.

Rapper Sarkodie and UK-based Fuse ODG have also received nominations for the same awards.

The reigning VGMA best female vocalist has also been nominated for the Best Female award in Africa’s most respected music awards event – the MTV Africa Music Awards (MAMAs) 2014.

This brings to seven, the award nominations so far this year.

A clearly overwhelmed Efya has taken to her official Facebook page to thank her fans and team, asking for further support to win all the awards she’s been nominated for.

The international award show is scheduled to take place on Tuesday 27th May 2014 in Monte Carlo,Monaco, France.

Source: peacefmonline

Flavour, Fally Ipupa, Keche and J-Martins to rock AMAA 10th Anniversary stage

The stage of Africa Movie Academy Awards will be lightened up on Saturday 25th May, 2014 when
Afro-hip-hop super star Fally Ipupa from the Democratic Republic of Congo alongside Nigerian contemporary high-life act, Flavour , Ghanaian Keche musical group and Nigeria’s J-Martins will perform at the continental showbiz fiesta.

Announcing the musical stars that will be on parade, Mr. Tony Anih, Director of Administration of AMAA said that Nigerians and international
guests that will be in Yenagoa for the awards should be prepared for a great time with the musical artistes drawn from West and Central
Africa.

‘’As an African brand AMAA always parade the best of our musical stars and celebrities to perform and host the awards.

We are continuing in that tradition again and for our 10th anniversary
we went for the best available within the continent.’’

The awards that is being sponsored by Glo, MRS oil, Sterling Bank as platinum sponsors will also have
Nigeria’s Segun Arinze, Nigerian-British born Lloyd Nathaniel, Ghana’s Naa Ashorkor and a yet to be
announced South African hosts of the event.

Red carpet of the show will be anchored by Kenya’s Mariam Kaptuiya, Ghana’s Igantius Annor and
Mamavi Owusu. The Nigerians who will be part of the red carpet anchors include John Mike Nwadibie,
Chike Osigwe Emamuzo and Ogbeta Huldah.

AMAA is hosted by Bayelsa State government under the leadership of Governor Seriake Dickson
who has promised that the state is well secured for the comfort and enjoyment of residents and
visitors who will come from all parts of the world to the oil-rich state.

Other corporate organisations that are sponsoring AMAA this year include FCMB, Skye Bank, CCECC,
Atlas Oranto Petroleum International, Osigwe Anyiam-Osigwe Foundation, Dan Etete Foundation, Skymit Autos, BUA Group while the media partners
are Bella Naija, ONTV, Ebony TV and Cool FM.

One of Ghana's promising music star - Hecta

Here comes another glowing star from the Volta region of Ghana. Hecta is the real definition of versatility and dynamism. A sparkling star that combines matured lyrics with rhythms to create music.

Since infancy Hecta has always dream of becoming one of Ghana’s industry big music names.
Hecta started pursuing his musical career at a tender age when he used to rap and sing at the same time to entertain people he hangs around with.
Since then, he has gone through major evolution to ensure that he produce more commercial songs that will be accepted by the market.

Hecta is undoubtedly one of the rising stars from southern Ghana who is enjoying massive airplay and also performed on major stages in the country and beyond. Hecta through his hard work and creativity has been able to share the same stage with big names like Kwaw Kese, Edem, 4X4, R2bees, D-Black, Castro, and Guru etc.

Hecta is a signed artiste under ‘KabaKaba Music’ where he co-owns the record label with his long time clique Abraham Fiza. He has added more value to his music brand by involving other online promo portals like Showbiz GH and Noexit Ghana that co-promote his songs and effect his media relations but still working industriously and looking forward to sign deals with record labels who believes in his musical proficiency. A dedicated number of fans and friends called TEAMHECTA are also behind pushing his career, since the moon is the target.

Hecta has a good number of songs to his credit and still producing countless number of them that will be released subsequently .His first hit single features Dobble 'Woni ma wo' and followed by a couple of others.

However the song that shot Hecta into the mainstream was his much talk about street anthem ‘Evuna’ which features one of Ghana’s top stars, Guru of Bola Ray’s empire entertainment. The song produced by Bushington DK crony Danny Beat forced it way beyond the borders of Ghana through to Togo, Swaziland, Nigeria and other African countries. A timeless music still reigning in other parts of the world.

Hecta’s songs are for the street. His latest release ‘Gbadu’ is a club banger which features Stay Jay and expected to become a major hit in the months ahead.

In his words Hecta said; ‘music is my thing, a lot is yet to come. This is just the tip of the iceberg. My fans have not yet had enough of me. More to come by God’s grace ‘ Mi nor cheky

Connect with Hecta on the social media today and get interactive
Facebook: Hecta GH
Twitter:@HectaGH
Instagram:@HectaGH
YouTube:HectaOnline:
Hash tag: #Hecta #TeamHecta
Alternative Links: www.reverbnation.com/hectadevolta1

Wednesday 21 May 2014

I don’t have a wife - Samini

From being touted as ‘The ladies’ to be being called ‘The man with many wives’, the self-acclaimed ‘King of African Dancehall’, Samini, seems to have shirked all those titles and wants the title, ‘Man with no wives’.

The dancehall artiste has revealed that, he is no longer married and has no wife presently, contrary to the known fact that he had two wives.

Making the revelation to Delay Frimpong Manso on the ‘Delay Show’ after some hesitation, Samini said that he had married two ladies at a young age with the perception that he was doing the honourable thing of marrying all the mothers of his children.

According to him, he felt he was doing the right thing but the ladies, after a while did not agree to the arrangement of being married to the same man and the circumstances of the marriages and decided to call it quit; so he is currently with no wife.

‘I don’t have a wife. Everybody has gone their separate ways.

Thanks to civilization, my former wives decided to stop the marriage,’ he disclosed.

Samini defended his action of marrying more than one woman by saying: “where I come from, it is acceptable to marry more than one woman and it was my wish to marry all the mothers of my kids and make them comfortable.

I thought I was doing the right thing but the women felt otherwise”

“Once you can take care of your wives and children, it is acceptable to marry the women as a responsible
man,” he continued.

The irony of Samini’s marriage life which hit the headlines years ago was not about his marriage to two different women but how he did it.

In February 2011, Samini got married to Mercy Geker, mother of his daughter, Yelisun Samini in London.

At the time, Samini was already engaged to Christian Aboagye Mensah, a Ghanaian-based in Canada and the mother of his daughters- Toyila Samini and Ayana Samini, unbeknownst to Mercy Geker.

Samini, on 10th May 2011, officially registered his marriage to Christiana Aboagye Mensah in a low profile ceremony which took place at the Registrar General’s Office in Accra in the presence of their children.

Samini currently has four kids, three girls and one boy from different women but he is not married to any of the women, per his account.

Samini is also gearing up to open a restaurant/night club called ‘Dance Sterdam’ at Dansoman.

According to him, the place will serve as a restaurant during the day and a nightclub in the evening; and will be opened very soon.

Source: Razz Newspaper

Bull Dog Turns Good Samaritan In Prison

Bull Dog is doing a good job in prison where he has been staying since last Thursday, May 15 .
The manager of dancehall artiste Shatta Wale has been passing on his food to his colleague prisoners .

Who wont love such a person? He is now the toast of his environment due to his kind gestures.

It is said that sometimes one ’ s predicament serves as a blessing to others , and this was the case when CEO of Bull Hause Entertainment, Lawrence Nana Asiamah Hanson aka Bulldog made his cell mates enjoy food items that were sent to him by family and friends .

Bull Dog had been the toast of his cell
mates as he passes on almost all his food brought to him from family , friends and loved ones .

When Flex newspaper paid a visit to him at the Cantonment Police Station , he had turned the cells into a party ground as other cellmates enjoyed the food passed on to them by Bull Dog who had little attention for food but his friends who have come around.

Bull Dog who is the manager of
controversial dancehall artiste Shatta Wale was arrested at Kokomlemle on Thursday 15 th May , 2014 over the death of the late Fennec Okyere who was stabbed in his Manet Garden home not long ago by unknown
assailants.

The Criminal Investigative Department of the Ghana Police in pursuit of the murderers, came across Bull Dog’ s name as a suspect of the crime.

He was then invited by the police to aid in investigations regarding the gruesome murder.

Bull dog was remanded in police custody last Monday at the Accra Central Magistrate court till June 2 to enable the police carry out further investigations.

Stonebwoy tours Europe

Dancehall artiste, Stonebwoy, leaves the shores of Ghana today for Europe to commence a two-week musical show.

The Ghanaian artiste will perform shows in Germany, Austria and climax it all in Italy where he is expected to thrill thousands of reggae and dancehall music lovers.

This is his first European tour since his musical career.

Stonebwoy, who has won the heart of many Ghanaians with his consistent hit songs, appears to have stretched his wings not just in Africa but across the European continent wishing to see the dazzling dancehall artiste performing.

The 2013 Bass Awards winner who over the years has established himself as a force to reckon with in the Reggae and Dancehall genre is said to grace the tour as the headline artist.

With thousands of his teeming fans expected to be part of the tour, one can imagine the exploding response from the crowd when the artist performs his banging hit songs, “Pull up,” “Give it to them,” and “Onumade.”

In an exclusive interview with Entertainment Today via telephone, Manager of Stonebwoy, Mr. Karl Gidiglo, said the whole management team is very excited about the tour which Stonebwoy is embarking on.

According to him, this is the first time Stonebwoy will be performing in Germany and Italy… “and I feels it’s a good cause for the artist to showcase the talent we have in Ghana.

However, he expressed gratitude to God for this favour on his artist.

“It is just amazing to know how people outside appreciate the good work we do in Ghana; I am honestly humbled by the huge responses we are getting out already and I believe this is also a platform for Stonebwoy to go out there to show the talent Ghana has.

“……we promise to give a great and memorable show,” he assured.

He noted that the tour was made possible due to the kind of music he [Stonebwoy] does and how Europeans have developed interest in it.

“This shows that the kind of music Stonebouy does is not just for Ghanaians only but also for the international market,” Mr. Gidiglo added.

Stonebwoy will be performing in Hamburg, Germany on the 24th and 28th in Austria before his final show slated for 7th June, 2014 in Italy.

Source: Today Newspaper

My role in movies affects me – John Dumelo

Ghana’s top actor, John Dumelo, has made it known that he sometimes gets affected by the role he plays in movies.

He made reference to a particular movie in which he acted as an aggressive husband.

“There was one time I was to act as an aggressive and abusive husband towards Nigerian actress Rita Dominic.

I was given a script to act like an aggressive husband who was supposed to be beating his wife every day.

The character had so much impact on me that by the time the shooting was complete – I became so aggressive.

It took me some days to come to myself,’ he revealed.
These occurrences seem to have strengthened the actor who has a passion for acting.

The actor who was in the company of his colleague, Majid Michael, went on to reveal his challenges as a new actor.

“There were lots of criticisms, and in the first movie I casted, I was paid Ghc10.00, but because I know what I was looking for I did not complain.

I have not been to any acting school, but because of the passion, determination and support I got from people, I was able to make it to the top.”

The handsome actor has already started giving back to society as he has opened an acting school named John Dumelo Film Academy to nurture young talents.

He further revealed his dream to act in Hollywood should an opportunity arise.

He expressed the belief that Ghana can reach a Hollywood status if the movie industry could be developed to attain more international recognition.

Source: The General Telegraph

I still believe in love – Yvonne Nelson

Actress Yvonne Nelson has opened up about her life in an exciting interview with Jessica Opare Saforo on the Traffic Avenue.

The gorgeous actress took Jessica on a joy ride when she answered questions related to her career, love life and the controversies.

Asked if she’s dating currently, she responded that “I’m very paranoid. I don’t believe in what any man says. I’m no longer dating but I still believe in love.”

Yvonne Nelson wasn’t at the recently held Vodafone Ghana Music Awards and she used the opportunity to dispel assertions that her absence was because of Iyanya, her ex-boyfriend who has billed to perform.

“I wasn’t at the # VGMAs because I was involved in an accident on my way there. I was to present an award,” she said.

Reacting to rumors that she has been bleaching, she explained that the use of filters on Instagram among other things make her look a bit fairer and that she has not bleached.

She explained that some people would just not accept explanation but remain resolute about the bleaching rumors.

Among other things, she revealed how with time she has managed to build herself up in the movie industry.

She’s currently working on her latest self-produced movie which features the best of the Ghanaian movie industry.

Monday 19 May 2014

Sarkodie Shoots Music Video For Adonai With Castro In South Africa

Sarkodie is a very great strategist and talent individual. When it comes to creativity, he does NOT lack in that field.

Even though his Adonai song with S.K Blinks on his Sarkology album was not that great, he went ahead to remix it with Castro and it was an instant hit song.

Well, the two are in South Africa now
shooting a video for it with Nana Kofi
Asihene.

Here are some of the Behind the Scenes photos from the set. You know sey money no be problem.

I Cannot Fake My Accent; It’s Real Says Jeremie

Many listeners have said it behind radio presenter Jeremie Van-Garshong’s back that she fakes her accent whenever she is on air.

When Showbiz told her last Monday about what her critics are saying, she responded with a long laughter and revealed that she herself has received similar bashing.

“I cannot fake my accent, this is how I have been speaking when I was young and anyone who knows me can tell you.

God has blessed me with this accent and I am happy to say my accent has taken me to a lot of places,” the 29 year-old radio presenter told Showbiz.

According to Jeremie, her command over the English language has given her the courage to interview international celebrities such as Ludacris, Trey Songz, Rick Ross, Keri Hilson, Bow Wow, Shontelle, T- Pain and Fabulous.

“Whenever I interview international celebrities, I feel like I’m speaking to my next door neighbour because I flow easily with them. I don’t feel intimated by their presence.

Jeremie started her radio career from Vibe Fm and later moved to YFM and after winning the hearts of many Ghanaians with her Y Lounge on YFM for five years, she moved to Live FM where she currently hosts the drive time show.

She is currently a brand ambassador for Malta Guinness and the Africa Rising Campaign Inspiring young people around Ghana and Africa and giving them an opportunity to share their inspirational stories with the rest of the world.

SOURCE: Graphic Showbiz

Bull Dog Appeared in Court this Morning; Fennec’s Murder Case Postponed to 2nd June

Lawrence Asiamah Hanson aka Bull Dog Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of Bull Haus entertainment and manager of popular dancehall artiste Shatta Wale appeared in court this morning in connection with the murder of the late Fennec Okyere.

The Accra Central Magistrate Court presided over by Her Worship Mavis Nyamaa Quanoo has adjourned hearing of the case involving Lawrence Nana Asiama Hanson also known as Bulldog and the state to June 2, 2014.

After the most anticipated court hearing this morning, Bulldog has been remanded in police custody for two weeks to enable the police conduct further investigations into the murder of Emmanuel Fennec Okyere.

This followed an argument from the prosecution that they needed more time to conduct further investigations into the case.

However, leading Lawyer for Bulldog, Gary Nimako rejected calls for his client to be remanded in police custody.

He argued that the charges leveled against his client (Bulldog) – conspiracy to commit murder and committing murder cannot hold because the prosecution has not been able to link his client to Fennec’s murder.

Bulldog was arrested in public on Thursday afternoon May 15 in Kokomlemle, a suburb of Accra, as a prime suspect in the death of Fennec Okyere.

Bulldog, who has been accused for conspiracy in the murder of Fennec Okyere, the Manager of the controversial hiplife artiste, Kwaw Kesse, alias Abodam, looked well composed and told well- wishers, friends and family present in court to keep calm and that everything will be fine.

Some of the familiar faces present in court this morning includes two members of newly reconstituted Hiplife group VVIP –Reggie Rockstone and Zeal (Formerly known as Lazzy), Bulldog’s father Mr. Hanson, Mr. Mensah father of dancehall artiste Shatta Wale among others.

Interestingly Shatta Wale himself was not seen anywhere around the court premises.

Sunday 18 May 2014

Afropop Mixtape | Playlist

Check out the playlist for the Showbiz GH - Afropop mixtape produced by Dj Ricky Augustine .

1.Reekado Bank ft Tiwa savage - Turn it up

2.J.o.e.l - Youn are in love

3.Edem - (Unfinished )

4.Dj Jimmy Jatt. Ft Grip Boiz & ice prince - Victory song

5.Victoria Kimani - Whoa

6.Castro ft Kofi Kinaata - Instagram

7.Wandaboy - On me

8.J-Town - You see that thing

9.BUrna Boy - Run my race

10.Chopstix ft Yung L,eDINA & Ice
prince - Stinking shit

11.Chase ft - Boozeman Anthem

13.Kwao Kesse ft Agbeko - We no dey see

14.Samini ft Kofi kinaata - Masters

16.Sarkodie ft Bankey w - Pon di ting

15.Dr sid ft Don Jazzy,Wizkid & Phyno - Surulere(REMIX)

17.Juliet Ibrahim ft Wondaboy - Number one fun

18.Yung L ft Mr marley - Designer

19.Phenom ft. Yung L - Nobody Tigther

20.Yung6ix - one Tweet

21.Dxd - Ponkor

22.Timaya ft Dbanj - Mind over matter

23.Amanda Jissih ft Stonebowy - Possibilities

24.Jesse jagz ft Wizkid - Bad Girl

25.Kcee & Harry song - Shine shine baby

26.Sarkodie ft 2 face - War

27.Sarkodie ft John Dumelo &
Sarkodie - Ask Dumelo

Compiled by:Jonilar & Dj Ricky Augustine

Saturday 17 May 2014

I am disappointed in some hip life artistes - Reggie Rockstone


Originator of hip-life music, Reggie Rockstone says he is disappointed in the number of hip life artistes who didn't attend the campaign for fairness, transparency and equity in the distribution of royalties against Ghana Music Rights Organization (GHAMRO).

Rockstone was among the several music right owners who turned up at a seminar on Tuesday to call on the interim GHAMRO Board headed by Carlos Sekyi, to respect the constitution governing its operations.

Okyeame Kwame, Kojo Antwi, Daddy Lumba, Abrantie Amakye Dede, Rex Omar, Lazy, Daddy Bosco, Prodigal, Appietus, Bessa Simons, and Obour were also present at the event.

Speaking at the seminar, Rockstone said royalties are crucial to musicians, especially hip-life artistes who are in the majority and the young crop of artistes in Ghana’s music industry.

He said hip-life musicians would be the ones to suffer most in the future if they did not join the campaign to ensure the proper handling of royalties.

Reggie was at the seminar with the two members of the newly constituted VVIP group, which used to be VIP until Promzy exited.

However, current hot artistes like Sarkodie, Samini,Shatta Wale, Castro, EL, Joe B, Kaakie, Stonebwoy, Chase Forever, SK Originale, Guru, Obrafour, Kwabena Kwabena, Gallaxy, R2bees, Edya, Tiffany, Jon Germain and 4x4 among others were missing at the event.

Reggie expressed disappointment at the number of hip-life artistes who turned up at the meeting,urging them to get involved in such activities.

“I know we shouldn’t wash our dirty linen in public.

All right, this is for television. I am quite disappointed in how many of the hip life soldiers turned up for this meeting.

If you are watching and you are home, I want you to understand something; I have things to do too. This fight is for you (hip-lifers). It is not for us; when your uncles can get up and come here and represent. So please, I don’t know if they informed you or they didn’t.

However,this fight is about you because if you leave me alone,I am ok. I am ok. We can eat. It is about you - hip- life. Transparency and Accountability,” Reggie Rockstone said.

A number of hip-life artistes had raised red flags in the past for not receiving royalties since they started their career.

Reggie felt this was the time to make sure they stood up for what rightfully belonged to them.

Source: Francis Addo-News One

Friday 16 May 2014

Ayitey Powers calls for re-match

Boxer, Ayitey Powers is demanding a rematch with Braimah Bukom Banku Kamoko after loss to his long time rival.

Speaking on the Citi Breakfast Show , Powers said the weight difference was the swing factor for Banku Kamoko.

“The weight difference was too much and that was the problem for me.

I could have decided not to fight after he came in 8kilos overweight but I felt I needed to respect the fans who had bought tickets so i fought,” he said.

According to Powers If this fight had been in Europe it would not have been allowed to happen. ”I have told his camp already that I want a rematch,” he reiterted.

Prior to the bout, Banku weighed 205 pounds,exceeding the upper limit of 200 for the cruiserweight division, while Powers, weighed exactly 200 pounds.

It is unclear whether Banku will accept the challenge of a rematch after signing a deal to face a Russian opponent on May 30.

By: CitiSports

Bulldog cannot be bail now - ASP Joseph Darkwah, (CID) PRO

Yesterday around 15: 45 at Kokomlele, the Manager of Shatta Wale, Lawrence Nana Asiama Hanson known in Showbiz circles as Bulldog was nabbed by the Police to help in investigation since he was labeled a prime suspect of the murder of Fennec Okyere, the Manager of Kwaw Kese who was murdered on March 13 this year.

Speaking on Hitz FM, the Criminal Investigation Department (CID) PRO, ASP Joseph Darkwah said Bulldog cannot be bailed since murder is a non- bailable offence

The PRO clarified that, Bulldog is in Police custody to help in investigation, as a prime suspect.

Asking if Bulldog could be detained for how long, ASP said as long as the investigation is ongoing and assured that, the Police is doing their best in this matter so the investigations would be done in due time.

ASP Joseph Darkwa applauded the media for their unflinching support throughout the investigation.

Banku wins Judgement day bout

Braimah “Bukom Banku” Kamoko won a 12-round unanimous decision over rival Ayittey Powers on Thursday to run his perfect record to 27-0 in a
non-title “Judgement Day” bout.

The 34-year-old Bukom based boxer won after the three judges scored the bout 117-109, 119-100 and 120-108.

Powers started the bout on a strong note but soon began to lose momentum in the bout as he failed to follow up on the punches that forced Banku
open.

Bukom Banku got into his groove in the second round and  dictated the pace with a flurry of punches with Powers going on the defensive.

For the rest of the bout, Banku went after Powers and landed most of the power punches mostly due to his punching combinations and movement.

The boxer surprised the fans with his skillful boxing techniques and even had time to toy with the tired Powers who could not keep up with the
flow of punches.

Braimah Kamoko improves his record to 27-0 while Ayitey Powers drops to 18-24-1.

By: Mawuli Tsikata and Nathan Quao/

Wednesday 14 May 2014

Breaking News: History made in Ghana as Rita Marley's daughter (Sharon Marley) marries Ekow Alabi Savage, Ghanaian musician.

Sharon Marley and Ekow Alabi wedding, Ghana marries Jamaica!

Sharon Marley Prendergast and Ekow Alabi Savage officially tied the love knot at a private family location in Accra, Ghana on Tuesday, May 13, 2014. Sharon and Ekow first met in 1991 and 23 years later, the love connection has finally brought them together as husband and wife.

The wedding was a very colourful ceremony with just few family folks of both couple and a few invited guests. The boding of Sharon and Ekow has inked a very respectable history, thus, a true reflection of the Afro-Caribbean connection as well as a visible example of repatriation.

Dr. Erica Bennett, Ambassador for the Diasporan African Forum (DAF), was present at the ceremony to represent Rita Marley (who had traveled out of the country to USA).

“The Marley family is an iconic family, and they welcome you into their family. And they have allowed you to be part of their (Marley) family. They asked me to give you a message – No Woman, No Cry – they don’t want to see any tears in her eyes.

The tears she’s shedding today are tears of joy, but there should never, never, ever, be any tears of sorrow. I will like to raise this glass and make a toast for Mr. and Mrs. Savage; may you have health, happiness and wealth,” Dr. Bennett apprized.

Daddy Bosco (Ahuma Ocansey), Administrator of Musicians Union of Ghana (MUSIGA), who was the MC for the wedding, also added his voice. “I find this marriage as another extension of the Marley legacy.

Sharon’s mother, Rita Marley, we all know moved to settle here with us in Ghana way back in 1990s and for her to give out her daughter’s hand in marriage to one of Ghana’s disciplined sons is indeed plausible.

For the wind of love to circulate around these two people for 23 years is no joke at all. It’s even going to be denser than it was in the past years and it is our hope and prayer that this lasts forever, like the Marley legacy.

A huge history has been made in Ghana with this marriage because it stands as the first and direct African marriage bonded to the Marley family. It will go a long way to solidify the connection of Ghana and Jamaica.

Bob Marley himself in songs have always wanted to be back to the motherland, we have his wife Nana Rita with us and now Sharon too has followed the trend. In other words, it will also go a long way to give the Ghana Reggae industry and the entire music and cultural sector a lot of good,” Daddy Bosco intimated.

Daddy Bosco is one of the legendary faces in the Ghana media who has sustained the Rastafari faith as well as the Reggae industry for over 30 years, and still counting. He also doubles as the Board Chairman of the BASS Awards, a scheme set to honour Reggae and Dancehall music made in Ghana and Africa, particularly.

“Thank you all for coming and sharing this moment with my husband (Ekow Alabi Savage) and I. My mother (Rita Marley0 is not here because of Jah’s plan. She is in the USA but thanks to Ekow’s brother, Oliver, who was able to connect us to her via skype.

Even though she is not here we all can see the beauty in Jah’s plan, as always. I thank her for making time to enjoy this ceremony with us and be part of us even though she is not here. I will be spending some time here in Ghana, learning more about my new family – Fante family – I’m looking forward to that and learning how to speak Ghana language, I want to learn the tradition, I want to love the people of Ghana” – says Sharon Marley, with teary eyes.

Sharon Marley Prendergast (born November 23, 1964) is singer, dancer, and curator. She is the biological daughter of Rita Marley who was adopted by Bob Marley when the two married. She was in the group Ziggy Marley and the Melody Makers along with her young sister and brothers. With the group, she has won three Grammy awards.

Ekow Alabi Savage is a great exponent and promoter of Ghanaian music and Africa in general. He was a founding member of Roots Anabo music group who was the first ever Reggae Group in Africa to perform on Reggae Sunsplash in Jamaica in 1984.

Ekow Alabi Savage has toured the world with his music later on as a solo Recording Artiste and Performing Artiste. He started playing music as a drum roadie for Pat Thomas and D Sweet Beans before he was employed as a percussion player.

He was by then also playing in a spiritual church Aladura, at an early age of 5. He has toured around the world with several artists including Kora Award winner, Ade Bantu.

He has also worked with a number of both foreign and local artistes including Pat Thomas, Kojo Antwi, Eeka Mouse (Jamaica), Reality Brothers (Germany), Vitamin X and Jimi Tenor.

[Story & Pictures by ELORM BEENIE]

Afrohitz Mixtape | Playlist

Check out the the playlist for the Showbiz GH Afrohitz mixtape produced by Dj Ricky Augustine.

1. Dil ft Iyanya - Pretty Girls

2.MzVee ft Promzy - Borkor Borkor

3.J.O.E.L ft SammyLee - Cindarella

4.MzVee ft Stonebwoy - Natural Girl
5.Richie - Shabote

6.Kay Switc ft Wizkid & Olamide - For Example

7.Screech ft JTown - TumTum Casanova

8.Phenom ft WizKid - Murder Dem (Remix)

9.Shatta Wale - Free Up(World Boss)

10.Kofi Kinata ft Kese - Different

11.Burna Boy - Boom Boom Boom

12.Sarkodie ft Obrafour - Elijah

13.EL - Identity (Missile Riddim)

14.Samini - Scatta Badmind (Missile Riddim)

15.Wizboyy - Wizolingo

16.R2bees - Killing me softly

17.D2 ft Shatta Wale - Fever

18.Atumpan ft Samini - Regina

19.Shatta Wale - One man in a million

20.Wonda Boy ft Sarkodie - Before then

21.JTown - Ok3 mi ni

22.Shatta Wale - Life (Instru)

23.Gallaxy - Tweaa

24.Samini - Bumper (Tonga Refix)

25.Yaa Pono - Amen

Compiled by:Jonilar & Dj Ricky Augustine for Showbiz GH

Monday 12 May 2014

Edem hosts a group discussion for his upcoming album, ‘Books’ ‘n’ ‘Ryhmes’

Hiplife artiste Denning Edem Agbeviadey known in showbiz as Edem last Saturday, May 10 hosted a group of music gurus at a focus group discussion for his upcoming album, “Books” “n” “Ryhmes”.

The group was to listen and judge his tracks for his “Books” “n” “Ryhmes” album scheduled to be released in September this year.

The event which is the first of its nature in Ghana was held to help Edem select 20 songs for his upcoming album, “Books” “n” “Ryhmes”. .

Personalities present at the event held at Travern in Osu, Accra included Mark Okreku Mantey, Lawyer Michael Quaye, Ama K. Abebrese, Francis Doku,Magnom, Lil Shaker, Daddy Bosco, radio presenters and fans of Edem.

The group was given the opportunity to listen and comment on 23 tracks by the Edem and give marks on the songs based on their opinion on each track.

After listening to the 23 tracks, Edem said he will choose 20 tracks out of those listened on the night and other 7 surprising tracks which were not played.

Sharing opinion on the 23 songs played on the night, Mark Okreku Mantey, CEO of Slip Music advised Edem to release songs which most Ghanaians can sing along.

“Nigerians are doing well in Ghana because they have melodies everybody can always sing along.

It was actually our trademark when they took it from us.

It’s good to do hardcore music but when you looking for the money or what people will appreciate, concentrate on what the ladies can sing” Lawyer Michael Quaye and administrator of MUSIGA, Daddy Bosco applauded Edem for the focus group discussion for his upcoming album which has not been held in the country before.

Edem speaking to Zionfelix.com after the show said “I accept all the comments in good faith and I hope that by the time we digest all these view, have around table group discussions and put the album together, it will be worthy for Ghanaians to be proud of.”

Source: Zionfelix.com

Thursday 8 May 2014

MEET DJ MENSAH, GH’S UNTOUCHABLE TURNTABLE MONSTER

We bring to you Africa’s celebrity DJ and Sarkodie’s official turntable master; he goes by the stage name DJ Mensah.

The untouchable DJ is always set to thrill fans whenever he is called upon and he never disappoints.

Michael Mensah Ayenu, is a Ghanaian Disc Jockey born to an Ewe father and an Akan mother, he was brought up in Accra but hails from Denu in the Volta region of Ghana.

He attended Calvary International School at Madina where he had his Basic & Junior education, he then proceeded to Tema Senior High School (Temasco),after graduating, he got enrolled into RABODEF, a professional radio broadcast institution at Cantoments, Accra.

Desiring to be a DJ in his teen years, he started practicing during his leisure times thereby, cultivating the habit into a hobby.

In pursuit of churning this remarkable hobby into a professional performer, DJ Mensah met Nana Afful of ‘Soundmax’ who gave him the right guidance & tutor and also gave him the opportunity to play at funerals, naming ceremonies and other outdoor events.

After two years of working as an apprentice, he became independent and started playing at plush nightclubs like Bulldogg, Yegoala, Aphrodisiac, Hollywood, DND, Belaroma and the lavishly Rhapsodys nightclub. He has also played for Charterhouse and Bola Ray’s Empire
Entertainment.

DJ Mensah is one of the top class disk jockeys currently and he’s a monster when his fingers are busy screeching the turntables.

Be it in the club, party or an event show, the Ghana DJ Awards nominee always finds a way to make the crowd groove to his skillfully woven mixes.

Associated with mainstream acts like Trigmatic, Becca, 4X4, J Town, and Scientific among others, it is of no surprise that he is the verified DJ of BET award winner Sarkodie.

A role he won when the two met at the December to Remember show in 2009 where DJ Mensah had to unexpectedly perform cos the DJ who was billed to, did not show up.

As a born performer, he showcased his true talents, which caught the rappers attention leading to him appointing DJ Mensah.

The unrivaled disc jockey is also famed for his ‘Azonto mixes Mixtape’ a medium he uses to display his unmatched skills that have been accepted by music lovers time and time again.

He has displayed his talent on major platforms across Africa and beyond.

Some of the mega events he has played at are ‘Ghana Meets Naija’, ‘Big Brother Africa’ and has also toured countries like Nigeria, Togo, Sierra Leone, UK, Canada and eleven states in the U.S with Sarkodie.

The genius disk jockey is also the Ghanaian representative of Akwaaba UK, CEO of A-town group an event promoter and also host of PhamousTvs’ ‘Phreestyle’ segment.

With all these feats, he has been rewarded for his efforts as he has won countless awards which includes, Best Event DJ of the year 2013 at Accra Night Live Awards, 4syte Tv DJ of the year 2013, Best Artiste DJ of the year 2013 at the Ghana Djs Awards, and has been nominated for Best DJ, Best artiste DJ, Best Events DJ and Best Mixtape DJ in the 2014 DJ Awards ceremony.

The sky is certainly not the limit for DJ Mensah as he intends to keep breaking boundaries when the opportunity comes knocking and I hope upcoming DJ’s will learn from his unique masterpiece.

Photo: Steven Adusei

Charterhouse could not afford my fee, so they went for DJ Mic Smith

DJ Black speaks After four years of having played as the official DJ at Vodafone Ghana Music Awards night, DJ Black was missing on the stage this year, because, organisers of the award – Charterhouse, could not meet his professional charge.

The official DJ who played for this year’s VGMA night was DJ Mic Smith. Though a top-drawer DJ, many patrons who attended the event as well as critics alike have expressed disappointment at his performance regarding his poor selection of songs and timing.

Speaking to Razz Newspaper, DJ Black said; “they contacted me but they could not meet my fee. That is the main reason why I did not play on the night.” As to how much he charged, he did not state it.

In his opinion on how DJ Mic Smith fared on the night, Mr. Tuntum told Razz Newspaper he was on air as DJ on Joy 99.7 Fm, so he could not listen or monitor the VGMA event which was broadcasted live both on GhOne and GTV.

He admitted that there is absolutely no bad blood between him and Charterhouse. DJ Black started his DJ career in 1993 in School.

He later joined Prime Cut in 1995 and worked alongside veteran Ghanaian DJs like Azigiza Jnr, DJ Magic Sam, DJ Rab, DJ Kakra, among other.

In 1997, DJ Black moved on to manage Dope Rhyme Studios in Nima, giving rise to his clench on Hiphop music in Ghana.

He became the DJ for the streets as he made mixtapes and spinned for Hiplifers like VIP, Bukbak, Obrafuor, etc and being in the forefront of people who strengthened the movement Hiplife. DJ Black started radio in 1997 at Radio Universe.

He holds a BA in Mass Communication from Ghana Institute of Journalism and University of Ghana. He as well has diploma in Public Administration.

He is the host DJ for almost all major shows in Ghana including the Ghana Music Awards. DJ Black won the 2013 Best Ghanaian DJ, Best radio DJ.

He can be described as the hottest DJ in Ghana at the moment.

Source: Razz Newspaper

Shatta Wale, EL, R2Bees, Samini, D- Black, Castro & Tinny in Celebrity football match

Live Wire Events and Yfm bring you the first annual Celebrity Soccer Weekend Showdown between 8 celebrity teams across our music and entertainment scene made up Samini’s Highgrade family team, Tinny’s Bardman Family, D-Black’s BAM United, E.L’s BBNZ Live, Shatta Movement F.C, Yfm All Stars,R2Bees Nation and Castro’s Baby Jet United.

The highly anticipated annual soccer
tournament dubbed the Celebrity Soccer Weekend happens on Saturday 24th May at Lizzy’s Sports Complex (East Legon) and is geared at raising funds for the Children’s Ward of the Korle-bu Teaching Hospital.

With kick off at 12pm, come have fun for 25 Ghc only as your favourite celebrities battle it out for the champion of Celebrity Soccer Weekend 2014.

Catch all 8 teams live on 4Syte TV on Saturday 17th May as they ballot to find out who faces who in the group stages and unveil team jerseys for The Celebrity Soccer Weekend.

This event is brought to you by LiveWire Events and Yfm and supported by Red Bull, Gh One, ETV Ghana, 4Syte TV, Black Avenue,Clothing,ameyawdebrah.ghanamusic,ghanagist and omgghana

Wednesday 7 May 2014

Gallaxy Introduces Afrobeat

One thing in music that makes artistes easily noticed and marketable is being associated with a particular genre or style of music.

Having realized this, music duo Gallaxy comprising Kwasi Dav and Bra Chiky have decided to do mostly Afrobeat music, a music genre that concentrates on predominantly African rhythms. This is a mass departure from the other well known genres of music trending in the music circles.

Listening to their songs critically, one would notice the streaks of Africanness in them and that makes Gallaxy stand out among the many musicians there are in the world. At least, when being interviewed about which genre of music they do, Gallaxy would be bold to identify with a brand they have created by themselves.

Gallaxy -Kwesi Dav (Vocalist) and Bra Chiky (Rapper) are both beat makers who also write songs for other musicians. They are signed onto Habour City Recordz and have been together as a group for over ten years but three years in commercial music.

Apart from their Afrobeat genre, they also do Highlife sparingly. They have five singles to their credit with BokoBoko (Slowly) being the song that shot them into the limelight.

The Highlife side of their brand served music lovers with an authentic Highlife song ‘Wodo Nti’ which enjoyed massive airplay countrywide and has also featured on most chart shows as against Castro’s ‘Odo pa’. They have been commended for that production because it projected and represented Ghana’s indigenous highlife genre perfectly .Their latest, ‘Highlife Agogo’ is just another unadulterated highlife song playing in clubs and every corner.

Kwesi Dav the vocalist who was also the lead singer was very selective about the kind of words he used to lure his mistress who was expected to ride him ‘slowly’. Pidgin English was the dominant language used in his case.

Bra Chiky the rapper on the other hand, has proved that, he has total control over his choice of words and felt very comfortable in the delivery .He spewed out his wicked ‘punch lines’ as the rap emcees will say.

Gallaxy is very young in the industry but well known behind the scene as good song writers. They have always defended themselves as song writers with a unique style and very selective not to abuse their listeners with their songs .The pedigree can be traced from their previous releases.

If you have ever watched the ‘BokoBoko’ video and compare it to their ‘Wodo Nti’ video .You can see the disparity. Versatility and swag comes to play. Their body language tells the story.

At least every musician must have a foresight. Music is a tool you can use to appeal to your global audience and Gallaxy possesses this. Of course, this is the future.

Get Social With Gallaxy
1.Facebook: www.faceboo.com/GallaxyOfficial
2.YouTube: www.YouTube.com/GallaxyOfficial
Instagram & Twitter: GallaxyGH
Hashtags: #Gallaxy #Agyis3wokidey #Gallaxians

Credit: Kwame Dadzie

Second edition of Ghana DJs Conference to be held in Kumasi on May 9

After a succesful first edition of the
Ghana DJs conference held in Accra on May 1 2014 at the Airport West hotel (near Hotel Kuffuor), DJs from the Northern sector of the country would have the chance to engage in a very fruitful interaction at the Golden Tulip, Kumasi City on Friday May 9 2014.

The conference is aimed at bringing
together DJs from across the country and will see players discuss pertinent issues regarding the profession although there is no unified body as yet.

The conference which is being put together by Joy FM’s DJ Black and his Toontoom outfit comes off on May 9 2014 at the Golden Tulip, Kumasi city and kicks start at 10AM.

Among the many issues to discuss are
artists and DJs relations, Unity among DJs and welfare of DJ.

The conference is open to all DJs
nationwide.