Ommy Dallah
Adenkule Gold releases new Album 'Afro Pop Volume 1'
Transcending from an African household name to a global superstar, chart topping Nigerian musician and creative Adekunle Gold marks this chapter of his ascension with the release of his new album Afro Pop Vol. 1.
Foreshadowed by internationally acclaimed singles “AG Baby” and the sensational “Something Different”, Adekunle’s third studio album and first with Universal/EMI emerges as a fresh approach to the crooner’s sound, more embracing of wider influences while underpinned by the traditional West African sounds that positioned him as a unique force in music.
Going from the rock-laced “Exclusive” and the dancehall-leaning “Pretty Girl” to firmly embracing the afro-pop label with sweet “Here For Ya”, he seeks a diverse evolution here.
More progressive pop sounds are adopted, a noticeable departure from the high-life sounds of his 2017 Billboard-charting debut Gold.
Nonetheless, his highlife roots and a love for the six strings of the guitar run deep on this project, and his unmistakable vocals are the rich tapestry that expertly weaves the album together.
His most ambitious body of work to date, with notable guests including Tekno, Patoranking and Nailah Blackman speaking to the calibre of this new release.
Adekunle shares: “I’m so glad that I set out to do this project, it’s better than anything that I thought I could ever do here.”
Capturing audiences as he continues to push creative boundaries with his art, Adekunle Gold has continued to see incredible success to date, with his sophomore album About 30, going onto make the consideration list for the 2019 Grammy Awards category for Best World Album as well as being the talk of key tastemakers to date incl. NOTION, BILLBOARD, OKAYAFRICA, NATIVE MAGAZINE and COMPLEX.
Afro Pop Vol. 1 is Adekunle Gold’s true arrival. Not wavered by the pressures to conform, he leans into every fibre of his self-expression making this his most special album to date.
Gabiro Mtu Neccesary, Asen B Release 'Niteke' Music Video
Fresh off their newly released six tracks musical project, Gabiro Mtu Necessary and Asen B have released the second music video for ‘Niteke’
Before this new music video off their freshly released EP "MPITO”, the duo had also delivered another music video ‘Anakuona’ which is now exactly two weeks old.
The gospel tune has been doing great rounds on different platforms across the globe with the EP making exemplary steps since its release on the 23rd of July, 2020.
In July, Gabiro and Asen B first mentioned they have a new collaborative EP coming.
"We are preparing an album for the second half of this year, but decided to first release an EP because we wanted to reach our fans as soon as possible," they revealed on their live broadcasting on Facebook and Instagram.
They added, "The song is an upbeat love tune and sung in Swahili, just like ‘Anakuona’ and ‘Katika’ both songs on the EP.
The six-track Dancehall release contains every element to get the listeners reminiscing, singing, and replaying it 24/7.
“Mpito” takes the listener on a musical journey with African flavored beats, drifty uplifting rhythms, and infectious energy. The vocals and instrumentation work seamlessly together in every track for a must-listen record.
The story-telling lyricism paired with the feel-good vocals will have listeners relating to certain situations in their lives. The engaging melody and beats with each track give the vocal an intimate, and euphoric feeling. Spreading good vibes automatically.
Video Link – https://youtu.be/D470xUAAjC4
Nollywood Star Omotola Jalade Tests Positive For Covid-19
Nollywood star Omotola Jalade-Ekeinde has revealed that she tested positive for coronavirus.
The 42-year-old actress disclosed this on Instagram revealing that she has been isolation.
“Hello all, I know most of you have been wondering where I’ve been. Well, I contracted COVID. I have been ill in Isolation and now getting better. More details of this soon,” she wrote.
Just recently the actress revealed that her husband, pilot, Mathew Ekeinde had flown their two children in a private jet from the U.S. to Nigeria. According to her, they were stranded in the United States because of the Covid-19 outbreak.
She is the third Nigerian celebrity so far to come out and reveal they have tested for the virus
Others are singers Mr. P of Psquare fame and Azadus.
Mr P tested positive alongside his wife Lola and daughter Aliona.
“For the past three weeks, I have been ill, and most people didn’t even know what was wrong with me. I kept it to myself. It has been three weeks of hell for me and my family. I had Covid-19 for about three weeks, and it happened to me. I was sick, and I tested positive,” said Mr P in a video shared online.
Adding “After a week, my daughter caught the virus as well. It was sad that when she caught it, the doctor insisted that she has to be self-isolated in her own room. When she was pronounced negative, we knew it wasn’t going to end there. The next day, Lola became positive. It has been hell but we had a bad experience. I am happy to announce that my wife, myself, our daughter and two of our domestic staff, are all negative now."
Masauti Releases First Video Off His '001' EP
Masauti has released the first video off his 001 EP featuring Tanasha Donna titled 'Liar'.
The video has been directed by one of Tanzania’s best video directors Hanscana working together with Mombasa based production house, above the rim as the executive producer.
The audio was recorded by Mombasa based music producer Shirko.
http://ommydalla.co.ke/buzz/item/1685-tanasha-working-on-a-video-with-masauti
The Ep has a total of four songs.
Darey Reveals Uplifting New Single 'Jah Guide Me'
Nigeria’s Multi-platinum ‘Afro & B’ artist Darey has announced his anticipated return with new single ‘Jah Guide Me’, accompanied by a stunning official music video, out 14th August on Livespot Entertainment.
Exploring the importance of hope and inspiration in these difficult times, ‘Jah Guide Me’ sees Darey utilise a feel good, relaxed production, filled with warm percussion and uplifting brass arrangements to bring his message to life that, even on a good day, everyone is looking to the higher powers who will help and guide us to a better and brighter future.
The striking visual, shot on location in Lagos and brought to life by Darey himself alongside director Mex Ossai, seeks to explore the vision of Africa from an African’s perspective.
Showcasing the creativity and vibrance of the people, young and old amidst the stunning surroundings of the white sand and beaches Nigeria has to offer.
The video see’s Darey guide us through sanctuaries to the fields and waters whilst encapsulating the essence and beauty of those from across the country.
“My latest single “Jah Guide Me”, represents a return to what I love best, creating and telling compelling stories that resonate with everyone,” Darey explains.
Adding “The song comes at a critical period in our humanity where we have been reminded of just how fleeting life is and how supplication, prayer, spirituality, and the belief in a higher power often sees us asking for guidance as we navigate these tough times.”
Also discussing the music video, Darey enthuses; “the approach is carefully styled and curated and exudes a vibe I term Afrofuturism. Edgy, cultural, cosmopolitan yet very relatable as it mirrors life for the ordinary person.”
The son of the legendary African Jazz Musician and entertainer Art Alade, Dare Art Alade, professionally known as Darey is a multiple award-winning singer, musician, songwriter, music producer, showstopper extraordinaire and entrepreneur.
Since gaining exposure across Africa as runner up in the 2004 season of Music talent search reality TV show, Project Fame, Darey has made an indelible mark on the Nigerian and African music scene.
As a seasoned live performer, he has graced the stage alongside Beyoncé, Wizkid, Jay Z, Ciara, Cardi B, Burna Boy, Sean Paul, Usher, R Kelly, Akon, Lionel Richie and many more.
His albums “From Me 2 U,” “unDAREYted,” and “Double Dare” have sold several million albums cumulatively and helped him amass millions of fans across Africa and the diaspora.
Also a creative entrepreneur, Darey is the co-founder of Livespot360, a 360º creative collective responsible for 2019's Livespot X Festival which saw Darey bring Cardi B to Africa for the first time as she headlined across its Lagos and Accra events.
Following the success of the 2016 album 'Naked', Darey makes a triumphant return with 'Jah Guide Me' , and proves to be the kind of musical escapism we need during these turbulent times.
'Jah Guide Me' was written and produced by Pheelz and Darey.
Meet Robaa, The Radio Reporter Who Found His Voice In Love Ballads
When most people hear the name Robert Menza, the first hint that comes to mind is the news reporter at Radio Maisha, but little do they know that the same voice and person has equally released and entertained them with over 50 bango songs some of which hit the waves.
Popularly known in the bango scenes and amongst his music fans as Robaa, the 29 years old has skillfully managed to balance between his journalism and music careers without compromising any of the two.
The reporter and artist began his musical journey in 2009 when he was still in High school, and officially started recorded his music in 2014.
A year after, he joined the media industry as a reporter in 2015, later joining Radio Maisha in 2017 as a Mombasa based reporter till date.
"I don't find it hard balancing between journalism and music because both are my careers, I manage them well," He shares.
His inspiration in life he intimates, is life itself. And while he is a bango artist, He looks up to Bongo superstar, Mbosso.
In the latest song 'Ni Basi', Robaa tries to give some hope to a man who has been disappointed by his lover encouraging him to move on and focus on finding a better partner who will equally love and value him.
Just like other artists, Robaa has also been affected by the Coronavirus pandemic.
"As bango artists we mostly rely on events especially weddings but as you know things have changed, it's a very challenging time. No one will now approach you to compose for them a special song for their parties like birthday parties or even engagement, so we are suffering" said Robaa.
Listen to his songs here: https://mdundo.com/song/1629882
Sarkodie To Host Virtual Concert
Ghanaian rap icon, best known as Sarkodie will be putting on one of the most exciting and innovative outdoor virtual concerts on Sunday 16th August full of hits exclusively streamed on Ceek.com.
The “Black Love” virtual concert will hear Africa’s finest MC feature a heavy-duty line up performing tracks taken from his recently released album of the same name at an iconic location in Accra for the very first concert to be performed at this location.
Along with a few surprise guests, Sarkodie will be bringing through some of Ghana’s finest musicians, who also featured on the album such as King Promise, Efya and KiDi to Joey B and Legend Amakye Dede.
With the presence of African music royalty, this definitely won’t be a show to be missed and will also be available on DSP’s after the concert.
Sarkodie’s latest single “CEO Flow” ft. E-40 took over a billboard in the one of the most iconic places in the world, New York’s Time’s Square, a monumental moment for him and Ghanaian music. He’s also in the Top Requested Artists on MTV for a 5th week in a row, showing his fierce presence in the today’s fast-paced music industry
Jack Rooster Releases New Video 'Afrika Disco' Off 'Nyumba' Album
Multi-talented producer and musician Jack Rooster has released “Afrika Disco'' a new music video and the third single off his “Nyumba” album featuring the sultry vocals of rising star, Khuhani.
The upbeat club banger reminds us of a time before the pandemic when we would gather and dance freely and will have you immerse yourself in the uniqueness and vibrancy of African club culture.
Afrika Disco on YouTube: https://www.youtube.
Jack Rooster also a renowned radio host and DJ says, “Through the music video of “AFRIKA DISCO,” we relive the moments we’ve had and look forward to those yet to come” – Jack Rooster.
The video features shots of performance scenes representing the vibrant Nairobi music scene and teleports you onto the Afrikan dance floor, a place where freedom of expression reigns supreme.
Stream album: https://linktr.ee/
Rooster’s debut 11-track NYUMBA (means House in many African languages) album is a blend of different genres from House, Hip Hop and R&B among other Kenyan classic genres.
Jack delivers a stellar project that truly and authentically reflects the Kenyan spirit, vibe and uniqueness.
The album, mixed and mastered by Musyoka of Decimal Records, includes collaborations with The Decimators, Kevin Grands, Nuru and Terrianne Iraki.
Ex- Kelele Takatifu Member Didi Man Introduces New Artist Nzisa In New Song 'Thank You'
About "Thank You"
“The song is about thanking God. Many times we make requests to God but we forget to thank Him after He fulfills them. This song was specifically to just thank Him for everything and praise Him for His wonderful deeds” - Nzisa.
How Nzisa and Didi Man got to work together
“When I went to the studio to record my first song “Hakuna Hasara”, Didi was also there. I had a hard time putting my ideas together and he came through. Since then we have been friends and he has helped me write and re-arrange a lot of my songs. So when I was planning to release my third single, I thought of it being a collaboration, and Didi Man was the first person to come to my mind because of our musical chemistry, his versatility (he can both sing and rap), and his great songwriting skills.” – Nzisa.
Watch 'Thank You’ on YouTube here: https://youtu.be/vUKvzPx81Zk
Editor's Notes
Nzisa Bio
Born Susan Nzisa Muange, Nzisa is a 21-year-old Gospel singer from Nairobi, Kenya signed to Golden Hour Production. She grew up in Machakos and began singing in church at a very tender age. Nzisa released her first song ‘Hakuna Hasara’ this year, on 30th January 2020 and besides music, she is a student at the Jomo Kenyatta University pursuing a degree in procurement.
Didi Man Bio
Gospel singer Silvanus Otieno, popularly known as Didi Man, formerly of the now-defunct Kelele Takatifu music group is not new to Kenyans. As a group, they released a series of hits like “Itakuwa Ngori” and together won several music awards including the Group of The Year Award in 2016 Groove Awards. The group later broke up in 2017 and since then Didi Man has been releasing songs as a solo artist.
realme C3 Game Monster Lands In Kenya As More Models Set To Launch On 25th August
Kenya’s smartphone sphere continues to shift with the entry of new players bringing on board great experiences in terms of gadgets that are taking the markets by storm.
The world’s fastest-growing smartphone brand around the globe, realme, announced its official entry into the Kenyan market as part of the brand’s global growth and expansion strategy.
According to Counterpoint’s second quarter global smartphone shipment report, realme, has become the world’s fastest-growing mobile phone brand for four consecutive quarters, and with a year-on-year growth rate of 11%, it has become the only global smartphone brand which achieved double-digit growth.
The realme brand which has consistently registered double digits growth for 4 consecutive quarters landed in the country with their realme C3 Game Monster model that is likely to give competitors a run for their money given its affordability and the features it comes with.
As the Kenyan phone market continues to expand, consumers are increasingly looking for a wider range of options and features to consider before deciding to buy a phone. One of the most common features that phone lovers are looking for include the camera.
realme C3, to meet the demand of the current consumer, comes with AI triple camera with great zoom that gives the user an amazing opportunity of taking images both near and at a distance and by giving clear distinctive features of any image taken.
The Entertainment King also rocks with a 5000Mah massive battery, a Helio G70 Processor, a 6.5’’ mini-drop full screen and a 3-card slot. A key and unique feature here is a 3-card slot. Most consumers are used to having a 2-card slot phone.
Rarely will one come across a 3-card slot phone. With 3 slots for cards, it means the user, for instance, can use any Telcom provider’s line at the same time in the same phone.
The 1st flash sale of realme C3 which was priced at 11,999 KES took place on August 10th at 9:00 am online on the Jumia platform which sold out 600+ units in only 2 hours after its release into the Market. This shows that realme C3 has been welcomed well by the young consumers in the Kenyan Market.
The 2nd and last flash sale will be on August 17th 2020 at 12:00pm on the Jumia platform. Both flash sales will have limited quantities on first-come-first-served-basis. On August 18th 2020 the brand will start the online and offline first sale, which is 13,999 KES.
According to the phone giant, realme, the entry of realme C3 into the Kenyan market is just the beginning. Three more products are on the way; realme C11, realme 6 and the realme band, set to be launched on August 25, 2020 at 11.00am on the realme social platforms.
The realme 6 which is The most powerful 64Mp quad camera under 30K KES will feature 64MP Pro Camera, Pro Display, 90hz Smooth Display, Helio G90 T and 30W Flash Charge. While the C11 9999KES Entry level King will feature a Bigger Battery, 5000mAh Massive Battery, 6.5”, Mini-drop Fullscreen and a Nightscape Dual Camera.
The launch of the three more brands will increase the presence of realme models in Kenya to three as it positions itself to sweep across one of the most competitive markets in Africa. Kenya, according to a report by Communications Authority in 2019, had a 91 percent penetration of mobile subscription.
realme has entered the top five rankings in 9 global markets. In Southeast Asia, the fourth largest mobile phone market in the world, realme has also become the fourth mobile phone brand with a market share of 12% and a year-on-year growth rate of 102%. It is working to achieve its goal of 100 million units in global smartphone sales in two to three years
About realme
realme is a technology brand officially established on May 4, 2018, by Sky Li. realme aspires to provide products with a comprehensive superior experience for the young, and realme is committed to being a trendsetting technology brand.
It brings consumers products with trendsetting technologies, features and trendsetting experiences that are first applied in the price segment. realme’s global users have reached 40 million and its sales volume of AIoT audio products broke the record of 1 million in 2020.
According to the statistics of Counterpoint global smartphone shipments in Q1 of 2020, the emerging smartphone brand realme still ranks 7th with a year-over-year growth rate of 157% which ranks the first in the world as well. As the world's fastest-growing smartphone brand, realme stands firmly among the mainstream smartphone brands.
