Connect with us

celebrity radar - gossips

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

Published

on

biodun 2

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

celebrity radar - gossips

Powerful dignitaries, high net worth personalities storm Omorede Osifo’s diamond jubilee celebration in Marbella Spain

Published

on

Powerful dignitaries, high net worth personalities storm Omorede Osifo’s diamond jubilee celebration in Marbella Spain

.. How she has attained so much professional, political heights at 60 

 

 

The beautiful city of Marbella in Spain was thrown into a colorful and electrifying mood when one of Nigeria’s most celebrated, iconic political Lionesses, the debonair banker turned politician, Lady Omorede Osifo was serenaded with a sumptuous and deluxe 60th birthday gig.

 

The dynamic political empress and symbol of selfless service to humanity who served diligently and faithfully as the honourable Commissioner for Youth and Sports in Edo State was flabbergasted by the amazing love shown to her by friends, family and well-wishers who thronged the alluringly beautiful hall to give her an indelible birthday celebration. The event tagged @omorede_osifo is now the talk of town as high networth dignitaries, celebrities from all walks of life and different parts of the world all made their presence significant for the celebrant to ruminate over in many years to come.

 

Lady Omorede Osifo is a quintessential democrat who committed much of her time and energy in serving the people. The birthday babe whose special day fell on 8th of May has come, saw and conquered in the so-called murky waters of Nigerian politics. She served perfectly as State Commissioner, Deputy National Treasurer of the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC),

Special Adviser on Women Mobilization in Edo State and as a distinguished representative of her people.

 

As the celebration of the 60th birthday of this lady of glam, glitz and panache unfolded, it became clear that this gathering was not just a personal milestone for Hon. Lady Omorede Osifo but also a reaffirmation of commitment among political leaders to work together. The convergence of these key figures in the political arena serves as a reminder of the potential for collaborative efforts to foster progress and uplift the community.

 

Her birthday celebration was a testament to the strength of unity in political engagement, highlighting the significance of personal connections in the realm of governance.

 

As Hon. Lady Omorede Osifo embarks on another year, the expressions of support and solidarity from her fellow dignitaries promise a future filled with collaborative achievements and shared goals for the betterment of their constituents.

 

Hon. Lady Omorede Osifo is a fantastic leader who wants the best for her people. She is personally committed to the transformation of women and two girl child in Edo State and she has also been at the top echelon of her political party, the APC with her selfless efforts recognized and appreciated by His Excellency President Bola Ahmed Tinubu GCFR as well as her superb democratic contributions to the growth and development of Edo State under the leadership of His Excellency Governor Monday Okpebholo who has overtime shown appreciation to her for being a dedicated and patriotic loyal daughter of Edo State. Even the Oba of Benin Kingdom bestowed on her the Prestigious Royal Beads which is given to Chiefs in recognition of her deep passion for the historical city of Benin.

 

This year, all road led to the serene city of Marbella, Spain for the celebration of her 60th birthday and a opportunity for her to appreciate her Creator, the Almighty God as well as every single individual that has played significant roles in her life.

 

Attaining the diamond age of 60 is never a child’s play, it’s a moment of sober reflection and commendation to God. We at Black Celebrity Magazine wish the indefatigable and indomitable Hon. Lady Omorede Osifo a very happy 60th birthday and many more years to live in perfect health and more success.

 

Powerful dignitaries, high net worth personalities storm Omorede Osifo's diamond jubilee celebration in Marbella Spain

Continue Reading

celebrity radar - gossips

Confusion, Panic As Reports Of Alexx Ekubo’s Death Rock Nollywood

Published

on

Confusion, Panic As Reports Of Alexx Ekubo’s Death Rock Nollywood

 

The Nigerian entertainment industry was thrown into confusion and panic on Tuesday following viral reports alleging that popular Nollywood actor, Alexx Ekubo, had died at the age of 40.

 

 

The shocking claim, which spread rapidly across social media platforms and blogs, alleged that the actor died in Lagos after battling undisclosed health complications, sparking an outpouring of grief from stunned fans and colleagues.

 

 

As the rumours gained momentum online, several actors, movie producers and entertainment enthusiasts flooded Instagram and X with emotional reactions, describing the development as “heartbreaking,” “unbelievable” and “a dark day for Nollywood.”

 

 

Actor Godwin Nnadiekwe was among those who reacted emotionally, reportedly lamenting that the industry had lost “a rare soul” whose charisma and talent helped shape modern Nollywood.

 

 

Alexx Ekubo, widely admired for his stylish persona, romanti movie roles and strong social media influence, rose to prominence after emerging first runner-up at the 2010 Mr Nigeria competition before becoming one of Nollywood’s most sought-after actors.

 

 

The development also reignited conversations surrounding the actor’s prolonged absence from social media in recent months, which had earlier triggered concern among fans over his wellbeing.
Despite the widespread reports, confusion continued to trail the story as no official statement had been issued by the actor’s family, management or close associates confirming the alleged death as of press time.

 

 

The uncertainty surrounding the reports further fueled tension online, with many Nigerians demanding clarity while others urged the public against spreading unverified information.

 

Continue Reading

celebrity radar - gossips

JOY AS SHEBABY SPARKS PREGNANCY SPECULATION YEARS AFTER MARRIAGE

Published

on

JOY AS SHEBABY SPARKS PREGNANCY SPECULATION YEARS AFTER MARRIAGE

 

Popular Nigerian actress, singer and dancer, Seyi Ariyo, popularly known as Shebaby, has stirred reactions on social media following speculations that she is expecting a child years after getting married.

 

The development has generated excitement among fans and colleagues, especially on Instagram where many have continued to flood her page with congratulatory messages and prayers.

 

While some admirers celebrated the actress and prayed that her joy would be permanent, others pointed to a viral video currently making rounds online, where several entertainers, among them Oyita, a close friend, Tawa Ajisefinni, Seyi Ẹdun, Bukky Fagbuyi, and a host of others including Olú Maintain, were seen rejoicing and congratulating her.

 

Although Shebaby is already a mother with a grown daughter, the latest development has continued to attract attention within the entertainment industry and among her followers.

 

Before now, the London-based entertainer had built a strong reputation for herself in both music and acting. She has released several songs and also worked alongside notable Fuji star Wasiu Alabi Pasuma and other respected entertainers in the industry.

 

In the movie sector, Shebaby is also regarded as a household name. Sources close to the actress revealed that she is currently working on a new project titled Father Forgive Me.

 

Fans and colleagues have continued to pray for the actress, wishing her safe delivery and more happiness in her home.

 

#Shebaby #SeyiAriyo #EntertainmentNews #Nollywood #Pasuma #Olumaintain #CelebrityNews

JOY AS SHEBABY SPARKS PREGNANCY SPECULATION YEARS AFTER MARRIAGE

Continue Reading

Cover Of The Week

Trending