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.

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.

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.

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.

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