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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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Eazie Boi, The Voice of A United Continent/Eazie Boi, The Voice of A Socialist Society

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Eazie Boi, The Voice of A United Continent/Eazie Boi, The Voice of A Socialist Society

 

Raymond Israel, popularly known as Eazie Boi, is a dynamic professional Ib-based music recording artist… A songwriter, singer and rapper…Eazie Boi is an indigene of the state of Akwa Ibom… He’s released heartwarming singles like No Para, Oshey, Dispare, Burning Bridge, Endsarz Symphony. He just wanted to thank he’s Fans audience around the world for their support from day one. He is currently working on new projects combining his commitment to Pan-African network and a socialist government breeding consciousness into Afro-beats and hip-hop music.

 

He places himself in the lineage of pan-African singers like Paul Robeson, Miriam Makeba and the all time greats legendary Fela Kuti. His vision of a united continent and a socialist society is an awareness of the importance of pan-African solidarity of the continent and the diaspora.

For the vocalist, Africa is rich in its diversity and its unity around the philosophical concept Ubuntu. He likes to recall the strength of the Kemits and of the young African today who wishes to take charge of her future.
This commitment begins with his EndSarz symphony, a text committed to calling for an end to police brutality. ENdSars is this social movement of protest against the political violence carried out by the Special Anti-Robbery Squad, a unit of the Nigerian police. This mass protest movement calls for an end to oppression and police brutality in Nigeria. Eazie Boi then embraced socialist ideas. In his leaflet, he calls for socialist revolution in his country, Nigeria, which has problems with brutality, corruption and massacres. He then became the spokesperson for an entire generation of young Nigerians wishing to improve their living conditions.

He wants to make it known that he is working hard and will release his debut EP album in 2025. Although the release date has not yet been set, it will be communicated via his social media account.
Facebook Page:- Eazie Nation
Instagram account:- iam_eazieboi
X:- iam_eazieboi

 

His style of music and his musical genre are a panel of his talents. Although he is gifted in rapping and singing, his preferred style remains afro-beats. He is part of the lineage of current Naija artists who assert themselves as African and Afrobeat remains his favorite genre.
Rap remains a means of expression on political and social issues in Africa but also in the world. Singing is another cool way for Eazie Boi to express his feelings and communicate his ideas to the world.

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Africa Magic Viewers’ Choice Awards 2025: Full List of Nominees Sparks Intense Reactions

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Africa Magic Viewers’ Choice Awards 2025: Full List of Nominees Sparks Intense Reactions

Africa Magic Viewers’ Choice Awards 2025: Full List of Nominees Sparks Intense Reactions

The highly anticipated nominations for the 2025 Africa Magic Viewers’ Choice Awards (AMVCA) have been unveiled, setting the stage for what promises to be a fiercely contested battle among Africa’s finest in film, television, and digital content. With projects released between January 1 and December 31, 2024, the selection showcases an impressive array of talent and storytelling prowess across various categories.

Among the standout contenders, Lisabi: The Uprising, Skeleton Coast, House of Ga’a, and Freedom Way have emerged as dominant forces, securing multiple nominations, including Best Movie and Best Director.

Top Acting Categories

The Best Lead Actor category is stacked with some of Nollywood’s finest, featuring Gideon Okeke (Tokunbo), Stan Nze (Suspicion), Femi Adebayo (Seven Doors), and Adedimeji Lateef (Lisabi: The Uprising). These seasoned actors will battle it out for the prestigious award, each having delivered powerful performances that left audiences in awe.

On the other hand, the Best Lead Actress category sees a stellar lineup, including Chioma Chukwuka (Seven Doors), Bimbo Ademoye (Anikulapo: Rise of the Spectre), and Uche Montana (Thinline), all of whom have been recognized for their compelling roles in some of the year’s most talked-about films.

Fan-Favorite Categories and Industry Buzz

The digital space is also well represented, with the Best Digital Content Creator category featuring talents like Iyo Prosper Adokiye, Maryam Apakagi-Greene, and Elozonam Ogbolu. As social media continues to play a major role in content creation, this category is expected to be one of the most closely watched.

In addition, the Best Multichoice Talent Factory Movie category highlights emerging talents from across Africa, reinforcing the AMVCA’s commitment to nurturing young filmmakers. Titles such as Gone (West Africa), Everything Light Touches (West Africa), and The Immersive Alarm (East Africa) made the cut.

Biggest Showdowns and Surprises

The Best Director category is another highlight, with Robert O Peters (Skeleton Coast), Norman Maake (Inkabi), Bolanle Austen-Peters (House of Ga’a), and Femi Adebayo (Seven Doors) competing for the prestigious accolade. With each director bringing a unique touch to their respective films, this category is expected to be highly competitive.

Meanwhile, the Best Movie category features an exciting mix of epic blockbusters and critically acclaimed productions, including Lisabi: The Uprising, Skeleton Coast, Suspicion, Inkabi, House of Ga’a, Freedom Way, and Christmas in Lagos.

Full List of Nominees

Best Digital Content Creator

  • Iyo Prosper Adokiye
  • Maryam Apakagi-Greene
  • Elozonam Ogbolu, Hoviare Freedom, Chiamaka Uzokwe
  • Jide Pounds Ibitoye
  • Ariyiikedimples, Brain Jotter

Best Movie

  • Lisabi: The Uprising
  • Skeleton Coast
  • Suspicion
  • Inkabi
  • House of Ga’a
  • Freedom Way
  • Christmas in Lagos
  • Farmer’s Bride

Best Director

  • Robert O Peters – Skeleton Coast
  • Norman Maake – Inkabi
  • Bolanle Austen-Peters – House of Ga’a
  • Awam Amkpa – The Man Died
  • Daniel Emeka Oriahi – The Weekend
  • Femi Adebayo, Adebayo Tijani, Tope Adebayo – Seven Doors

Best Lead Actor

  • Gideon Okeke – Tokunbo
  • Bucci Franklin – The Weekend
  • Femi Branch – House of Ga’a
  • Thapelo Makoena – Skeleton Coast
  • Bimbo Manuel – Princess On A Hill
  • Stan Nze – Suspicion
  • Femi Adebayo – Seven Doors
  • Adedimeji Lateef – Lisabi: The Uprising

Best Lead Actress

  • Chioma Chukwuka – Seven Doors
  • Gbugbemi Ejeye – Farmer’s Bride
  • Uzoamaka Onuoha – Agemo
  • Uche Montana – Thinline
  • Uzoamaka Aniunoh – Phoenix Fury
  • Hilda Dokubo – The Uprising: Wives On Strike 3
  • Bimbo Ademoye – Anikulapo: Rise of the Spectre

(Additional nominees for other categories omitted for brevity.)

What’s Next?

The 2025 AMVCA promises to be a night of glitz, glamour, and well-deserved recognition for the best in African entertainment. With some categories too close to call, fans and industry insiders are eagerly anticipating the final results.

Voting lines are now open, and the audience is encouraged to support their favorite nominees. As the countdown to the awards night begins, the excitement continues to build, with predictions and debates already dominating social media discussions.

Who will take home the prestigious AMVCA trophies? Only time will tell, but one thing is certain—this year’s edition will go down as one of the most competitive and talked-about in the history of the awards.

 

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Tayo Folorunsho Expands Nollywood’s Frontiers with KAP Film and Television Institute Graduation

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Tayo Folorunsho Expands Nollywood’s Frontiers with KAP Film and Television Institute Graduation

Tayo Folorunsho Expands Nollywood’s Frontiers with KAP Film and Television Institute Graduation
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Nollywood, Africa’s largest film industry, is witnessing a new wave of transformation as industry professionals seek to refine their expertise and elevate the sector to global standards. In a major development, Tayo Folorunsho, a renowned edutainment entrepreneur and filmmaker, has successfully completed a professional program at the prestigious KAP Film and Television Institute in Lagos.

Tayo Folorunsho Expands Nollywood’s Frontiers with KAP Film and Television Institute Graduation

As the Founder of The Big Break Moment Africa and Head of Operations at EDUTAINMENT FIRST INTERNATIONAL LTD/GTE, Folorunsho has been instrumental in bridging education and entertainment, empowering young creatives, and shaping the future of Nollywood. His latest academic pursuit signals a shift towards business-driven filmmaking, which is crucial for Nollywood’s sustainability and competitiveness on the global stage.

Speaking on his motivation for enrolling at KAP, Folorunsho emphasized the need for filmmakers to go beyond creativity and embrace the business aspects of filmmaking.

“I was desirous of knowing the rudimentary part of the business aspect of filmmaking, beyond just creativity. Nollywood is expanding, and for it to remain competitive globally, we need to understand the financial and structural backbone of the industry. I got that knowledge here at KAP, and I am thoroughly impressed,” he stated.

With Nollywood ranking as the second-largest film industry in the world by output, industry stakeholders are increasingly focusing on enhancing production quality, securing better distribution models, and maximizing revenue streams. Folorunsho’s training at KAP has provided him with the tools to navigate the evolving landscape of global entertainment, positioning him as a key player in Nollywood’s next growth phase.

“This is a milestone for me. It has prepared me to be an all-around movie executive, not just a filmmaker. The experience at KAP has provided me with an A-to-Z understanding of movie-making, positioning me to contribute meaningfully to Nollywood’s future,” he added.

Folorunsho’s graduation reflects a growing trend in Nollywood, where professionals are seeking formal education to refine their craft and improve the industry’s global reputation. With streaming platforms like Netflix and Amazon Prime increasing their investment in Nollywood content, there is a greater demand for well-structured, high-quality productions that meet international standards.

As Nollywood expands its influence beyond Africa, the industry must adopt sound business models, better intellectual property protection, and strategic partnerships to maximize its potential. Folorunsho, through his work at EDUTAINMENT FIRST INTERNATIONAL LTD/GTE and The Big Break Moment Africa, is at the forefront of this new movement, inspiring and mentoring emerging creatives.


With his newfound expertise, Folorunsho is expected to spearhead innovative film projects, edutainment initiatives, and strategic collaborations that will shape Nollywood’s future. His approach to filmmaking—one that blends creativity with business intelligence—sets a new standard for how Nollywood professionals should position themselves in a rapidly evolving industry.

As the Nigerian film industry continues to gain recognition on the global stage, leaders like Tayo Folorunsho are proving that education, innovation, and strategic business knowledge are essential to Nollywood’s long-term success. His recent achievement is not just a personal milestone but a testament to Nollywood’s ongoing transformation into a world-class entertainment powerhouse.

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