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I have committed my marriage To Gods hand” – MERCY AIGBE GENTRY

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‘I have committed my marriage To Gods hand” – MERCY AIGBE GENTRY

Beautiful And elegant Yoruba actress Mercy Aigbe Gentry started where so many people thought she would not do well but, she has churned out great productions like “Osas Omoge Benin” and many more. In a chat with Sahara Weekly at her 1, Adeyemo Akapo Street, Omole Estate Phase 1 office, about her business, marriage, scandals and the secret of her ageless beauty. Enjoy it…
How will you describe a good actress?

A good actress is someone who can actually interpret the role she is expected to play to the best of her ability. A good actress should internalize that role and always be convincing. A good actress must always be professional; a good actress won’t be forming a diva and showed up late to sets.

You would have done well in English movies, why do you choose to act Yoruba movies?

It is not like I choose to be more popular in Yoruba movies, because I do English movies as well. Maybe it is fate. I started with English movies before I crossed over to Yoruba movies. After ‘Ara’ I started getting
scripts from other Yoruba film makers. Because I just started, I couldn’t turn down offers. Before I knew it, I became popular in the Yoruba genre of Nigerian movies and I am ok with this. I am a film maker; very
soon I will produce my own English movie.

You do well in movies. When was your turning point in the industry?

My turning point was when I became known in the movie called ‘Ara’, it was produced by Wemimo Olu Paul, a producer based in Ibadan. That was a turning point for me, I got recognized as an actress and people actually
took cognizance of me.

Why do you think some actresses find it difficult to sustain their fame?

I feel some people are not consistent. People tend to forget things easily, if fans don’t see you for a while, they forget you. So I think it is all about consistency.

People believe actresses don’t know how to manage their marriage. How have you been able to manage yours despite stardom?

I have committed my marriage into God’s hands. I believe it is only God that make marriages work. Although the spouses play their part but it takes God to make a marriage work. I am playing my part by being prayerful and being well-behaved. It is not about knowing how to do it right, it is just God.

Do you agree that entertainers live fake lives?

Yes, some of us do because the society expects too much from celebrities. When you see a celeb at the bus stop trying to get a bus, people make fun which may cause the celebrity to rather be seen in a borrowed car. Nobody can force me to live a fake life because it is all about me. I don’t live according to the
dictates of people. I don’t live above my means.

Most celebrities read scandalous stories about themselves and broke down, how do you handle scandals?

I have been lucky when it comes to scandals and at the same time, I try to be very careful because I know I am in the public eye and my actions would be scrutinized. But you can’t totally be free of scandals because I have read untrue stories about me. At times I laugh over them and at times I wonder why people would want to tarnish my image. I believe every cooked up story has a source.

Which was the worst scandal you have ever heard about yourself?

I don’t t think I have had any terrible scandal and I don’t think I will have any, so help me God.

How do you go about your beauty routine?

I try to take care of myself. I exercise when I am free. When I am not busy I do my indoor exercises, take lots of water, eat more of fruits and once in two weeks I take myself to the spa to be pampered. I get a massage, facials and exfoliate my skin.

You are into fashion business with MAG Divas concept. What informed this decision?

It all started from my passion for fashion. I love looking good, I love being trendy, I believe you have to look the part and look the way you want to be addressed. Your outward appearance matters a lot before people
really get to know you. People get a perception of you from seeing your outward appearance.

Where do your order for your goods?

I travel to get my stuffs from Italy, UK, US, Turkey and France.

Who constitutes your target audience?

When I decided go into this business, I had to think of the kind of customers I expect to have. I discovered that Nigerian women are stylish; a lot of them have clothes but don’t know how to put them together. A lot
of them have the money but don’t know where to get good clothes from. A lot of them know where to get good clothes but end up not being able to afford them. My target audience is the average Nigerian woman. MAG Divas is dedicated to dressing every class of Nigerian women irrespective of the class. Here you can get good and quality clothes for as low as N1,000 and at the same time we have clothes for N8,000. So, it depends on what you can afford; but the bottom line is that what you get here is of top quality.

How do you intends to cope with this?

It was challenging, shopping for this kind of materials because, I wanted very good quality clothing; I wanted people to look good without having to break the bank. It wasn’t easy but because I was dedicated I went all out to get good things for my boutique.

How do you intend to juggle your career, marriage and your business?

I just started and I’m sure I will be very good because I have a very supportive husband, he is very understanding and always there for me. I have also put up a very strong team. With my husband and my team, all will go smoothly.

aigbe

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How Ghetto Life, Encounter With Kenny Ogungbe Shaped My Career – Rapper Specko

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How Ghetto Life, Encounter With Kenny Ogungbe Shaped My Career - Rapper Specko

How Ghetto Life, Encounter With Kenny Ogungbe Shaped My Career – Rapper Specko

In the bustling city of Lagos, where music pulses through the streets and stories of struggle and triumph resonate within every beat, a young rapper named Samson Temitope Adekoya, better known as Specko, is making waves.

At 35 years old, Specko’s journey from the ghetto of Iju Ishaga in Lagos to the brink of a promising music career is a testament to resilience, passion, and the transformative power of mentorship.

How Ghetto Life, Encounter With Kenny Ogungbe Shaped My Career - Rapper Specko

Born into a Christian family, Specko’s early life was steeped in the rhythms of church music, where he learned to play various instruments and discovered his love for music. His father, a church leader and singer, fostered an environment rich in musical heritage, igniting a passion for artistry that would shape Specko’s future. However, life was not always easy. Growing up in a challenging neighbourhood, the young rapper quickly realized that he would have to fight for a better life.

“My childhood was tough,” Specko reflects. “I hustled in the ghetto, and it hit me that I needed to chart a better path. Music became my escape and my voice.” He began honing his craft, immersing himself in both local and international music, drawing inspiration from Nigerian icons like 2Baba and Idris Abdulkareem. His school days were filled with rap competitions, where he quickly emerged as a standout talent, often taking home the prize.

Specko’s lyrical prowess is deeply rooted in his experiences which he expresses deeply through his native Yoruba language, and he aims to be a beacon of hope for those who share his struggles. “I want to speak to the streets,” he says passionately. “I want to be a light for those who feel lost and hopeless. My music is a reflection of life, a reminder that with faith and hard work, anything is possible.”

A pivotal moment in Specko’s career arrived in 2022 when he met Kenny Ogungbe, the renowned record label executive and founder of Kennis Music. This encounter not only provided him with valuable insights into the music industry but also solidified his determination to succeed. “Mr. Ogungbe opened my eyes to the intricacies of the music business. His guidance has been invaluable,” Specko shares, expressing gratitude for the mentorship that has shaped his journey.

He explained that he did his first musix project in 2008, and with a growing discography that includes tracks like “Jen sha Ye”, “skibo”, “party time”, it was a 5 track hippy album which was produced  and mastered by QD of Terry G production. He also has songs like “wonjesimi”,” no pain” and “Hallelujah,” which has gained airplay on major radio stations, all getting Specko poised for greater recognition.

“My songs can be downloaded on Apple music, Audio mark, Spotify and other online music platforms.

“I love to talk about  the reality  of life because  my growing up  was not  easy.  it taught  me a lot of  things about  life and  had to learn  through the  hard way, years  back I was really rough. I was really  fighting the life so hard that I even had  to drop out of University. But I hope to return to school later and finish my degree.

His music, characterized by an authentic blend of Yoruba, English, and Pidgin, resonates with many. “I want my songs to reflect reality,” he explains. “I want to touch people’s lives through my lyrics.”

He said he looks forward to working with producers like ID Cabasa, young  jonn, and also with his current producer, Migestical  One, who produced Hallelujah.

Looking ahead, Specko is excited about his upcoming project, a six-track EP titled “NEW ARRIVATI,” which translates to “New Arrival” in Italian. He hopes to collaborate with established artists like Olamide and Reminisce, dreaming of sharing the stage with those who inspired him throughout his career.

Despite the lack of opportunities to perform at large shows, Specko remains optimistic. “I am ready for any opportunity to showcase my talent. I believe that my time will come,” he asserts. His determination is palpable, and his faith in God continues to guide him through the turbulent journey of an aspiring artist.

“I would also  like to collaborate  with Olamide  and  Reminisce on my song. I have  not had the opportunity  to work with  any popular  artists, but I pray  for  the opportunity, and I am open to any opportunity.”

“My mentors in the music  industry are  Idris  Abdulkareem,  Rugged man , E-bliss, Olamide , Reminisce, and  others. I listen  to their  songs as an indigenous  rapper,” he said.

As Specko continues to navigate the challenges of the music industry, he remains committed to uplifting others through his art. “I want to keep praising God with my music because that’s who I am,” he concludes, embodying the spirit of hope and resilience that defines not only his work but also the stories of many who walk the same path. With each beat, Specko is not just making music—he’s crafting a legacy that inspires and empowers.

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Funke Akindele’s Everybody Loves Jenifa Smashes Records, Grosses N500 Million in 12 Days

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Funke Akindele’s Everybody Loves Jenifa Smashes Records, Grosses N500 Million in 12 Days

 

Nollywood superstar and box office queen Funke Akindele has achieved another remarkable feat with her latest comedy blockbuster, Everybody Loves Jenifa (ELJ). The film has officially become the highest-grossing Nollywood movie of 2024, amassing a staggering N500 million in just 12 days.

Funke Akindele's Everybody Loves Jenifa Smashes Records, Grosses N500 Million in 12 Days

Taking to Instagram, Funke shared her heartfelt gratitude to fans and supporters for their unwavering love.


“Thank you, Lord!! Thank you, everyone!! I couldn’t have done this without your love and support!! God bless you all!!!” she wrote, accompanied by celebratory emojis.

 

 

The actress has every reason to celebrate, as Everybody Loves Jenifa continues to dominate cinemas both locally and internationally. The movie’s UK premiere at Odeon Cinemas last week sold out within minutes, prompting Funke to announce additional screenings to cater to the overwhelming demand.

 

 

Fans and critics alike have praised the film for its humor, relatability, and heartwarming themes, cementing Funke’s reputation as a Nollywood powerhouse and a master storyteller. The movie’s success is a testament to her ability to connect with audiences through her unique blend of comedy and heart.

 

 

With this latest achievement, Funke Akindele not only reinforces her status as a trailblazer in Nigerian cinema but also sets a new benchmark for Nollywood’s global reach and influence.

 

 

As Everybody Loves Jenifa continues its record-breaking streak, the actress remains focused on appreciating the fans who have made it all possible. “It’s not just about the numbers; it’s about the love,” Funke said during a recent interview. “This journey wouldn’t be possible without God and my incredible supporters.”

 

 

The story of Jenifa’s endearing and comedic escapades has once again captivated audiences, proving that Funke Akindele’s magic is timeless and universal.

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Entertainment

SEVEN DOORS: OLATUNJI AFOLAYAN DESERVES A FLORIST

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SEVEN DOORS: OLATUNJI AFOLAYAN DESERVES A FLORIST

 

As a film student, my evaluation of Seven Doors, the Netflix mini-series produced and directed by Femi Adebayo and others, may differ from the general audience’s. While the audience is integral to the film’s meaning, my academic perspective allows me to appreciate the cinematic craftsmanship that underlies the narrative.

Unarguably, in the same way that auteur theory highlights the director’s creative vision and Schreiber theory emphasises the screenwriter’s role, mise-en-scène theory underscores the art director/production designer’s contributions to the film’s visual language.

The art director/production designer plays a crucial role in creating the mise-en-scène, encompassing settings and props, costumes, facial and body expressions, lighting and colour, and character positioning within the frame. Therefore, the art director of Seven Doors, Olatunji Afolayan deserves a special recognition for designing visual elements that evoke nostalgia and cultural memory.

That you may know, the vintage chinawares and floral metal bowls in Seven Doors are props and carefully designed elements that contribute to the film’s visual composition and spatial relationships. The mural and sculptural designs are creatively etched on the walls and plotted to depict the period piece seamlessly. The choice of architectural designs (constructed or adapted) is a brainchild of the art director’s attention to detail when selecting these props, which helps create a sense of realism and authenticity.

An art director is said to be a “master of visual storytelling, a weaver of worlds, and a conductor of the cinematic orchestra.” The look, feel, mood, and colour pallets that connect all the departments are designed by an expert—the art director. Olatunji Afolayan’s technical depth and prowess are the apparent signature of Seven Doors. Without Afolayan’s ‘dirtied hands’, Seven Doors would remain bald and bland.

In conclusion, the art director/production designer is an essential member of the filmmaking team, and their contributions to the mise-en-scène deserve recognition. Olatunji Afolayan’s work in Seven Doors is a testament to the importance of the art director/production designer in creating a visually stunning and engaging film.

Undoubtedly, Olatunji Afolayan is the god of mise en scene in Seven Doors.

Steven Anu’ Adesemoye

SEVEN DOORS: OLATUNJI AFOLAYAN DESERVES A FLORIST

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