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I am a versatile artist”-Abbey cheche

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Abbey Owokoya also known as “abbey cheche” is an exceptional saxophonist. He has made a name through his dynamic and anointed performance abroad , he is  set to take over the Nigeria music scene as well .His singles ” No one” is ruling the airwaves and he is gradually warming the heart of music lovers with his talent.
In this interview, he told us how the journey began from circular music to gospel music.
How did you get your stage name “abbey cheche”
When I used to play afrobeat, there is this instrument we call maracas, it makes cheche sound. I love that sound so much that people started calling me cheche ,so, i decided to adopt that name as my stage name .There is something about that instrument, it is never heard in a place of mourning, it can only be found where there is joy. So, the interpretation of cheche simply means  sound of joy. That is how I came about my name.
How long have you been into music?
Twenty years now, it started at Ojuelegba in a church, Prayer Link Evangelical Ministry.
So why the choice of gospel music?
I used to play circular music. I have played with the likes of Femi Kuti, Keji Hamilton, Dbanj,Oriz Winiki, later, I discovered gospel is where I belong, gospel is where God wants me to be. It is not as if I cannot play circular music again though, when performing at weddings, I still play circular music, I am a versatile artist.
Tell us where you learnt to play the saxophone?
I started at Prayer Link Evangelical Ministry as well. To the glory of God, it has taken me round the world. Next summer by God’s grace, i am going for  my Europe tour . I got some calls from the UK, France and Ireland, to the glory of God, it is going to be good.
Can you compared being a circular artist to being a gospel artist?
There are  things you don’t do when you play gospel music. You don’t smoke, drink, womanise, you have to live a godly life, seek the presence of God for anointing when you go to minister, the presence and the anointing of God must be present so that lives can be blessed. You must have it at the back of your mind that you are doing the work of God, the holy spirit must guide you. I can remember when I was with Femi Kuti, we were surrounded by people who smoke and drink, I didn’t do such then becauseI am a converted Christian.
How long were you with him?
I was with him for two years, I was also with Dbanj for about four years.
Do you see a collaboration between you and any one of them?
Yes, I see it coming, there is nothing impossible. It might be through that they would be saved. I can remember Ebenezer Obey, he came from circular to gospel. I see myself doing a collabo with a circular artist.
You have a new single out, tell us about it?
It is titled “No One” it is a common song every body knows, very fantastic music, high quality, high definition video, it is a song people can easily relate with. Music must cut across a number of audiences, they should be able to feel the music and relate with it. It is filled with the anointing, I know it will certainly bless lives out there.
I featured two of my colleagues in it, Emmanuel Patrick known as ETG(Emmanuel the Great), Mayowa ponlongo is also there, it was produced by Olaitan Adebowale, the video was edited by Righteous man. The audio was mastered and mixed by Dayo Afolabi.
How is life as a saxophonist?
Life is good, you have to understand your gift, I appreciate God for this gift, being a saxophonist is what I love doing, it is the easiest thing I can do . I don’t need a full band to do it, it comes easy for me. I went to a church to perform  sometimes back and there was no keyboard, the drum set was also not so good, yet the people danced to the glory of God. I don’t need a full band to play, that is what distinguishes a professional, the ability to hold their own when a full band is not around.
Do you think saxophonists have an edge over singers?
I wouldn’t say one is superior to the other. You just have to identify your gift. I live in the United States, I play for Jamaicans, I deal with people who are not Africans, you just have to relate with them, you have to play popular and common music so they can enjoy it. You have to learn and practice so you can master what other people want. Another thing is that,music is not about you playing but about other people listening to you. I wouldn’t say Singers are  superior than us or that we are superior to them. We are both on the same platform.
Who do you admire their work among other gospel artist?
I am anticipating working with Mike Aremu, he is like the boss we were looking up to then before I became a saxophonist. Thank God we are also holding our own here. There is a concert I hold every year in the U.S, I am bringing it to Nigeria next year by God’s grace. It is known as ” sounds of joy”, we are having one by Dec 28 later in the year. I am anticipating featuring Mike Aremu, we would do a number together on stage. I also hope to work with Sinach, I have done a lot with Sunny Badu, he is an African artist.
What brings you to Nigeria?
I am here to unveil Abbey Cheche and what God has given me. A lot of people are blessed under my ministration abroad, why can’t I bring it to Nigeria. People should check my websitewww.abbeycheche.com.  I am also on Instragram, Facebook as abbeycheche.

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What You Need To Know About Award-Winning Nigerian Actor, Mustapha Sholagbade

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What You Need To Know About Award-Winning Nigerian Actor, Mustapha Sholagbade

What You Need To Know About Award-Winning Nigerian Actor, Mustapha Sholagbade

 

Mustapha Ololade Sholagbade, born on January 1, 1989, in Ebute Metta, Lagos, is an accomplished Nigerian actor, producer, and filmmaker with a deep passion for Yoruba cinema. Originally from Abeokuta, Ogun State, he is the first child in his family. Sholagbade began his education at Kadara Primary School and continued at Sojomen Talabi High School, Akute, and Nawairudeen Secondary School, Ebute Metta. He later earned an Ordinary Narional Diploma in Business Administration from the Lagos State Polytechnic. Pursuing his passion for acting, he trained at Odunfa Caucus, where he graduated in 2010.

Sholagbade launched his acting career in 2005, making a name for himself in Yoruba-language films. His portfolio includes roles in popular films like Olowo Ghetto, Alaimo, Ebun Mi, Esi, Gold and Treasure, Liam, Emilomo Babaolowo, Oko Aunty Mi, Broken Bond (Tude), and Last Born. In addition to acting, he has also produced several films, further cementing his influence in the industry.

Beyond the entertainment world, Sholagbade is a versatile professional with experience in railway engineering, IT support, and site management in the UK. He is also a farmer and general merchant, demonstrating his entrepreneurial spirit and diverse skill set.

Throughout his career, Sholagbade has collaborated with top figures in Yoruba cinema, such as Yinka Quadri, Taiwo “Ogogo” Hassan, Funke Akindele, Femi Adebayo, Odun Adekola, Oga Bello, Baba Wande, Jide Kosoko, Funsho Adeolu, Fathia William Balogun, Saidi Balogun, Wunmi Toriola, and Mide Martins.

Sholagbade’s hobbies include traveling, business, football, filmmaking, and meeting new people, reflecting his dynamic and outgoing personality.

Sholagbade’s talent and dedication to his craft have earned him numerous accolades, including: Best Actor Yoruba – BON Awards, 2024, Best Supporting Actor– Afro Nollywood Awards, UK, 2019, Best Supporting Actor– Heritage Awards, Atlanta, USA, Best Supporting Actor of the Year (Yoruba) – City People Movie Awards, Best New Actor of the Year (Yoruba) – City People Movie Awards.

With his achievements and versatility, Mustapha Ololade Sholagbade remains a notable force in the Nigerian film industry and a proud ambassador of Yoruba cinema worldwide.

What You Need To Know About Award-Winning Nigerian Actor, Mustapha Sholagbade

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World Famous to Sanwo-Olu: save upcoming artists from drug peddlers in promoter skin

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World Famous to Sanwo-Olu: save upcoming artists from drug peddlers in promoter skin

 

 

 

 

Sahara Weekly Reports That The fast-rising artiste in Nigeria entertainment world, Ayomide Olamide also known as World Famous, on Sunday hang out with friends and fans to further establish unity. The ‘Meh Meh Meh’ crooner who is making a great wave on his social media handles dropped a message for his music lovers explaining why he chose to hang out with them.

 

 

World Famous to Sanwo-Olu: save upcoming artists from drug peddlers in promoter skin

 

 

The event which took place at CareerMega Bar in Alagbado area of Lagos State had World Famous, captivate his audience with hit songs to further established friendship chain amongst his friends and lovers both home and abroad.

 

 

 

According to Famous, the show is more than just music but an idea to focus on setting an interactive session among his counterparts and also to play games as means of relaxation.

 

 

 

‘I have a dream that one day, the government will create room for upcoming artists so that they won’t cross the line of drug peddlers in promoter’s skin.

 

 

 

According to Prince Christopher Gold, C.E.O, Life compass travel & Tours, who had earlier facilitated famous tour to Ghana in 2022, made it his duty to draw a large crowd, personalities, socialites, celebrities and influencers to the event and also promised to make it annual event which will also showcase and further add to the vibrant ambiance of many upcoming artistes.

 

 

 

 

World Famous, who is also known as Akeweje Quibla , a famous Afro hippo artist is also promise to share the lyrics of his new hit with his lovers and new found admirers on his social media handles just to blend them in his upcoming video shoot in other to give a long lasting impression on his new admirers which will further establish their bond.

 

 

” Meh Meh Meh, his latest track is still making waves.

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Nollywood Actress Omolara Kasali Honored at Nigerian Canadian Celebrities Entertainment Awards

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Nollywood Actress Omolara Kasali Honored at Nigerian Canadian Celebrities Entertainment Awards

 

Mississauga-Centre Member of Provincial Parliament (MPP), Natalia Kusendova-Bashta, has extended her heartfelt congratulations to Nollywood actress Omolara Kasali Dada, who received a Special Recognition Award at the 7th edition of the Nigerian Canadian Celebrities Entertainment Awards. The prestigious event was held on Saturday, October 26, 2024, at the Royal King Event Center in Etobicoke, Canada.

In her congratulatory message, MPP Kusendova-Bashta expressed her admiration for Dada’s significant contributions to promoting Nigerian culture and entertainment in Canada and beyond. “It is my pleasure to congratulate Omolara Kasali Dada for being awarded the Special Recognition Award,” she wrote. “I am honored to recognize Omolara for her outstanding contributions to the preservation and enrichment of Nigerian cultural heritage.”

The annual awards ceremony celebrates individuals who have made a meaningful impact on the community by promoting and preserving Nigerian culture. Kusendova-Bashta praised Omolara’s role in strengthening cultural ties between Canada and Nigeria and enriching Canada’s multicultural landscape. She added, “Dedicated individuals like Omolara ensure that our rich heritage continues to thrive for generations to come.”

The event celebrated prominent figures who have played a vital role in preserving Nigerian traditions and enhancing cultural pride. The award to Omolara Kasali Dada stands as a testament to her dedication and influence within the Nigerian-Canadian community.

Natalia Kusendova-Bashta extended her best wishes for a memorable and inspiring celebration, highlighting the importance of cultural recognition events in building a diverse and unified community.

 

Nollywood Actress Omolara Kasali Honored at Nigerian Canadian Celebrities Entertainment Awards

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