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“I am inspired by a burning passion for music” — Award Winning Gospel Jazz Act, Biodun Ajanaku

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Popular Nigerian Jazz gospel singer, Biodun Ajanaku, talks about her music and passion for classic sounds. Excerpts…

Why did you decide to pursue a career in gospel jazz music?

I am a gospel performer, composer and a singer. I have singing ever since I was a child. I studied Mass Communication at the University of Lagos and I also have a master’s degree in Public Relations and International Affairs. I caught the singing bug from my mother and decided to pursue a career in gospel music while I was on temporary secondment to Africa Independent Television. While listening to a popular American gospel singer, the song she sang struck me. On the realisation that we sounded alike, I decided infuse some elements of jazz to my style of music.

What did your job at AIT entail?

I was posted to Ray Power to direct and coordinate the daily operation at the station. I also organised music choices, callers for the phone-in programmes, promotional, commercial audio clips and jingles.

Tell us about some of your works.

My first gospel hits were titled Thank God and Joshua and they were released about three years ago. The former was shot in Washington D.C and Maryland in the United States of America. The track is a powerful, unique and classic tune, which was borne out of a desire to show my gratitude to God for helping me to surmount numerous challenges through the years. The lyrics of the song are so strong that many testify that it has a life-transforming effect.This year, I released another single titled Tofunmi (Jesus is enough for me). It is a classic tune with an African touch. I was lucky to have been nominated for awards in different categories.

Have you performed overseas yet?

Recently, I was invited to perform at the South African Jazz festival and I was the only gospel jazz artiste at the event. For me, the experience was quite humbling. I performed two of my tracks; Joshua and Thank God, to a teeming audience.

What is the inspiration behind your songs?

I am inspired by a burning passion for music cultivated during my childhood and my love for the conservative music tradition of hymn singing. The bible, personal experiences, my environment and most importantly, my response to creative beats and tunes inspire me.

What makes you different from other gospel singers?

My singing style; I have a strong and deep voice which reveals the influence of jazz. My songs are also laced with deep lyrical content.

Your voice is rather very unique, is it inborn or acquired?

It is inborn; I think I inherited it from my mother.

Why did you decide to become a jazz gospel artiste and not explore some other popular genre of music?

It is a way of carrying out God’s plans for me as a gospel musician. My personal convictions have not led me to consider delving into secular music. My voice is God’s gift to me to deliver, heal, and give hope to the hopeless.

Is jazz music appreciated in Nigeria?

It is very impressive and growing at a steady pace.There are a number of established Nigerian jazz gospel artistes like Mike Aremu, Kunle Ajayi, and Mobola who are doing well. However, the genre has yet to gain its desired pride of place in the gospel industry. I would appreciate if the genre is allocated more airtime and airplay in the media. Jazz singers also need to raise the standard because the media houses will only air their songs to drive viewership.

Do you play any musical instrument?

I play the piano fairly well as it gives me the opportunity to perfect my craft, song structure and interpret the right key. Playing the piano also helps me express my emotions and improvisation techniques that would aid a better performance.

If you were not a musician, what other profession would you have considered?

My love for fashion and broadcasting are the only two things that can seemingly compete with my music career.

How do you juggle your music career and family life?

My family comes first while my career follows. I take care of all my day-to-day responsibilities during the day while I write and record my music at night. Every minute of my life is well planned and I plan my week ahead of time. With the help of my loving, caring and supportive husband, I am able to put a lot of things in order.

What do you consider to be the turning point in your musical career?

I guess it was my decision to go into full-time gospel music. I’m still discovering and rediscovering my music, myself and the Nigerian audience.

culled from PUNCH

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Governor Monday Okpebholo C.O.N Celebrates His Grace, Bishop Desmond Osazuwa, on His Birthday – December 21

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His Excellency Governor Monday Okpebholo C.O.N Celebrates His Grace, Bishop Desmond Osazuwa, on His Birthday – December 21

 

The Governor of Edo State, Senator Monday Okpebholo C.O.N., has extended warm birthday wishes to His Grace, Bishop Desmond Osazuwa Amasihohu, in recognition of his remarkable contributions to the state and his unwavering support during the Governor’s electoral victory.

In a heartfelt message, Governor Okpebholo expressed his profound admiration for Bishop Amasihohu, acknowledging his steadfast leadership, spiritual guidance, and commitment to the well-being of the people of Edo State.

“I am delighted to celebrate Bishop Desmond Osazuwa on his special day,” the Governor stated. “His tireless prayers and invaluable support during my election campaign played a significant role in our collective success. His dedication to the spiritual and physical growth of Edo State is a testament to his purposeful leadership and unwavering faith.”

Reflecting on the Bishop’s years of service, the Governor added, “On behalf of my family and the entire Edo State, I extend my heartfelt congratulations and best wishes to Bishop Desmond Amasihohu on his birthday. He is a true son of Edo, whose contributions continue to enrich our lives. Today, we celebrate not just his birthday but also his enduring impact on our state and beyond.”

Governor Okpebholo emphasized the importance of honoring individuals who dedicate their lives to service. “Recognizing Bishop Desmond Osazuwa aligns with our shared values of inclusivity, unity, and gratitude. His contributions to the spiritual and social fabric of Edo State are invaluable, and we are truly blessed to have him among us.”

Bishop Desmond Osazuwa Amasihohu has spent decades spreading the gospel and transforming lives both within Edo State and across the globe. His birthday celebration drew dignitaries, community leaders, and well-wishers who gathered to honor his life and legacy.

The occasion stands as a powerful reminder of the values of faith, service, and unity that guide the Governor’s vision for a stronger Edo State.

“Happy birthday, my Bishop,” Governor Okpebholo concluded. “Your wisdom and contributions to the development of our state are deeply appreciated. May the Lord Almighty bless you with good health, strength, and continued prosperity.”

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Lawyer Dele Farotimi Granted N30 Million Bail Amid Defamation Trial

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Lawyer Dele Farotimi Granted N30 Million Bail Amid Defamation Trial

Lawyer Dele Farotimi Granted N30 Million Bail Amid Defamation Trial

An Ado-Ekiti Magistrates’ Court in Ekiti State has granted a N30 million bail to embattled lawyer and human rights activist, Dele Farotimi.

Delivering the ruling on Friday, Magistrate Abayomi Adeosun approved the bail request under strict conditions. Farotimi is required to provide two responsible sureties, surrender his international passport, and refrain from granting media interviews while the case is ongoing.

In a surprising development, Magistrate Adeosun barred Farotimi’s lead counsel, Olumide Fusika, SAN, from appearing before the court, citing Section 9 of the Magistrates’ Courts Law of 2014 as the basis for the decision.

Farotimi has pleaded not guilty to the defamation charge, which stems from allegations made by elder statesman and Senior Advocate of Nigeria, Afe Babalola. The activist was arraigned following a petition accusing him of criminal defamation in his recently published book.

This is not the only legal battle Farotimi faces. On December 9, the Federal High Court in Ekiti granted him N50 million bail in a separate case involving a 12-count charge of cybercrime, filed by the Inspector-General of Police.

Farotimi’s trial, currently unfolding in two courts, underscores the high-stakes legal drama surrounding the prominent activist and author.

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Kim Kardashian Surprises Best Friend Tracy Romulus with a Cybertruck on Her Birthday

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Kim Kardashian Surprises Best Friend Tracy Romulus with a Cybertruck on Her Birthday

Kim Kardashian Surprises Best Friend Tracy Romulus with a Cybertruck on Her Birthday

 

In a heartwarming display of friendship, media mogul Kim Kardashian has sparked a frenzy online after surprising her best friend, Tracy Romulus, with an extravagant gift – a Tesla Cybertruck – to celebrate Romulus’ birthday.

Kim Kardashian Surprises Best Friend Tracy Romulus with a Cybertruck on Her Birthday

A viral video surfaced across social media platforms, capturing the unforgettable moment as Kardashian and Romulus shared a lighthearted conversation before Kardashian instructed Romulus to turn around. Upon doing so, Romulus was greeted with the jaw-dropping sight of the futuristic Cybertruck parked right before her. The surprise was so overwhelming that Romulus, visibly stunned, exclaimed, “Are you crazy?!” as she turned to Kardashian for confirmation.

The emotional moment was marked by an embrace between the two, a testament to the deep bond they share. Kardashian, who has long been known for her generosity, wished Romulus a happy birthday, clearly pleased with the joy her surprise had brought her longtime friend.

This thoughtful gesture quickly captured the attention of social media users, who were left in awe of the gift and the closeness between the two friends. The viral video continues to gain traction, with many fans expressing admiration for Kardashian’s unique way of celebrating her friendships.

For Tracy Romulus, the day was certainly one to remember, cementing another chapter in her special friendship with Kardashian.

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