RV IS BEING TRANSFORMED TO A WEBSITE.

Dear Readers and Followers, I am sorry for not blogging for sometime now. I have been busy of late and I have always wanted to run a full fledged website. I know you might feel disappointed with my decision to stop this blog. I believe in doing things properly and I have decided to take my web writing a few notches higher. This blog will not be updated again. It has been left in the cyberspace graveyard. A professional and well managed website will arise from the ashes of REDMAN'S VIBEWORLD. Thanks for following this blog all the while. We will keep you informed when the new website is ready. Thanks.

Tolu Ihidero

Belinda (1984) by Grady Harrell { RV VIDEO FEATURE }.

This song by Grady Harrell takes me back to my childhood.'Belinda' is a song that makes you want to hit the dance floor. This song inspired many Nigerian contemporary musicians. Eddy Ashiedu Brown of The Remedies sampled parts of this great song on one of the group's tracks.

I don't know why Grady was not successful as his contemporaries like Janet Jackson, New Edition and Jody Watley. Grady is from Los Angeles, California, and he has been a professional singer since he was 9 years old. His first album 'Mwana' was produced by Fred Wesley in 1984. 'Belinda' is one of the great songs on the album. Many Africans loved 'Belinda' because of the African feel of the song coupled with the African dancers in the video of the song. RV has a detailed story on Grady Harrell coming up. Enjoy this great video. Cheers.

BOB MARLEY'S FAMILY SUCCUMBS TO US COPYRIGHT LAW IN BITTER COURT CASE.

The family of Reggae Music Icon, Robert Nesta Marley, have lost out in a bid to obtain the copyrights to some of his revered recordings. Rita Marley and her children had sued Universal Music Group ( UMG ) seeking millions of dollars for the company's alleged attempts to 'exploit' his recordings. They also accused UMG of not paying royalties to the Family's Fifty-Six Hope Road Music Company. However, in a comprehensive ruling in New York last Friday, Judge Denise Cote ruled that Bob Marley's recordings were 'works made for hire' as stated under US Copyright law. According to Cote- 'Each of the agreements provided that the sound recordings were the absolute property of Island Records. Whether Marley would have recorded his music even if he had not entered the recording agreements with Island is beside the point.' Island Records is a subsidiary of the Universal Music Group ( UMG ).

The albums at the centre of the dispute include 'Catch a Fire'(1973), 'Burnin' (1973), 'Natty Dread' (1974), 'Rastaman Vibration' (1976) and 'Exodus' (1977). The albums listed were recorded by Bob Marley and his band, The Wailers, and contain some of the Reggae Legend's greatest songs like 'I shot the sherrif', 'One love' and 'No Woman, No Cry'. Judge Cotes ruling has put an end to the bitter legal fight between UMG and the Marley Family. In another development, Rita Marley who lives in Ghana will be attending a memorial concert in honour of her husband. The concert which has been tagged 'A Bob Marley Celebration' will take place in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, USA on the 23rd of this month. RV has gathered that some of Bob Marley's children including Damian, Julian, Stephen and Cedella Marley will be performing at the event ahich will be held at the Benedum Centre for the Performing Arts in Pittsburgh. The money that is raised from the concert will be donated to the family's One Love Foundation. Bob Marley died of Cancer in 1981 at age 36. He has sold between 100-250 million albums all over the world.

Sources: cdinsight.com, modernghana.com, RV.
Where To Find Bob Marley Online: www.bobmarley.com

A MESSAGE FROM TOLU IHIDERO.

I want to thank you all for taking the time to read and follow this blog. I am really amazed at the growth of REDMAN'S VIBEWORLD. Your consistent patronage has given me the motivation to continue with this project. I have had some positive feedback from readers in different parts of the world. Due to the traffic that this blog is receiving, we have decided to work harder to make your visit to REDMAN'S VIBEWORLD an unforgettable experience. We will be adding some new features to the blog like CD Reviews, Promoting upcoming musicians, writing articles about legendary Nigerian, African and world artists and also taking in and featuring guest bloggers. So here we go.

Are you a music lover? Can you write? You don't have to be a professional writer to be featured on this blog. We are looking for guest bloggers that want to make a name for themselves. If you have something to say about Nigerian artists or others matters relating to music, we will publish your article. Just write it and attach a photograph with it [ We can source for photographs too ] and mail it to us. The article should be in Microsoft Word and should not be too long. Your name will be credited as the author of the story or article. If the story is good, you will get paid for it. If you're an artist or musician, you can send a short biography to us along with links to your music online [ YOUTUBE videos, Myspace Page, Your personal website etc ]. We will promote you on the blog for FREE. We are all about Music and all that is associated with it.

Contact Us: tolukandi@yahoo.com, tolu.ihidero@gmail.com

Keep it locked on REDMAN'S VIBEWORLD. Our best is yet to come. Thanks.

PATTI LABELLE PLAYS FELA'S MOTHER ON BROADWAY MUSICAL.

Funmilayo Anikulapo Kuti, the mother of Africa's legendary Afrobeat musician, Fela Anikulapo Kuti, will be resurrected once more on stage by Legendary American R&B singer, Patti Labelle. Labelle made up her mind about playing Funmilayo Kuti on FELA, a Broadway musical produced by rappers Will Smith and Jay-Z after attending the show. According to Labelle- 'I am both thrilled and honoured to be joining the cast of FELA on Broadway. Fela's mother, Funmilayo, was a strong, truly inspiring woman and I am so privileged to be able to pay tribute to her on the Broadway stage.'

Labelle, who is renowned for her passionate stage performances, wide vocal range and distinctive high octave belting will make her debut in the play tomorrow [ September 14, 2010 ] and she will stay with the production until it ends on January 2, 2011. Playing Funmilayo Kuti will not be difficult for Patti Labelle because she is an actress with a lot of experience. She featured in the NBC sitcom 'A Different World' as Adele Wayne {Mother of Dwayne} and also acted in her own sitcom 'Out All Night' as a former R&B star known as Chelsea Paige. So she is in familiar territory. FELA is directed and Choreographed by Bill T. Jones. The show stars Sahr Nguajah and Kevin Mambo who both play Fela Kuti alternatively, and also features Antibalas and other members of the New York City Afrobeat community under the directorial skills of Aaron Johnson.

FELA which opened on Broadway in November 2009 tells the story of Fela Kuti as the target of 1000 soldiers who are hell bent on stopping his performances at his famous night club, Kalakuta Republic. Patti Labelle is also an accomplished singer-songwriter who was inducted into the Grammy Hall of Fame in 2003 due to her song 'Lady Marmalade'. She has reportedly sold 50 Million copies of her albums worldwide and has appeared on the Oprah Winfrey Show. If you're in the USA, you need to see this Tony Award-winning show about Fela Kuti. Fela is a freedom fighter who continues to inspire many Nigerians to demand for better governance in the oil rich nation.

Sources: theatremania.com, allhiphopnews.com, RV.
Where To Find Patti Labelle Online: www.pattilabelle.com

ASA IS BACK WITH ' BEAUTIFUL IMPERFECTION ' .

There is something unique about Bukola Elemide A.K.A Asa. I became her fan in January 2008 after listening to her CD repeatedly for three days. I did some research about her on the internet and I was amazed by the number of websites that carried stories about this wonderful lady. Her first album, 'Asa' was a total package of living songs and the deft touches of Producer Cobhams Emmanuel Asuquo can be felt on the album. 'Jailer' and 'Fire On The Mountain' were the two outstanding songs on the album. They share a common theme of social injustice and oppression, and I'm not surprised that Bukola has remained a social crusader with her second album, 'Beautiful Imperfection'.

Asa has reinvented herself and she looks at life in a new way. She is also looking very womanly presently ( You need to see her recent pictures ) and it is clear she is projecting her sensual part to the world. Her new personal and physical consciousness can be felt through her new songs. 'Be My Man' is the first single from her new album and the song should be on the airwaves any minute from now. Apart from telling us that she is ready for love, I feel the Paris born singer is also using 'Be My Man' to dispel rumours that she is having a lesbian affair with her Manager, Janet Nwose. Other tracks on the album include 'Questions' { Asa is back to her usual social criticism on this joint }, 'Bimpe' { A cool song about a character the singer has lived with in her head }, 'Ok', 'Broda Ole' et al. The full album will hit the music stores next month.

I don't want to bore you with information about Asa's background but it should be noted that she was born in France [ Her father was working at the Nigerian High Commission in Paris when she was born ] and returned to Nigeria at age 2. As a lonely child, Asa embraced music and was influenced by the music of greats like Aretha Franklin, Bob Marley, King Sunny Ade and Ebenezer Obey. After she started to establish herself on the world music map, She jammed with the likes of Manu Dibango, Doctor L and Tony Allen. Bukola won the highly regarded Constantine Award in France in 2008 [ though she hardly speaks French as a language ] and has performed with John Legend, Snoop Dogg and Akon. She is still signed to Naive Music in France. Stay tuned to RV for more information when 'Beautiful Imperfection' finally comes out.

Sources: Hi Magazine, RV.
Where To Find Asa Online: www.myspace.com/asaofficial
Contact Us: tolukandi@yahoo.com

RIHANNA'S RED RAGE FOR SINGLE RELEASE!!!

If you're still trying to figure out why Robyn Rihanna Renty danced like a slut in the video of her hit song 'Rude Boy', then you've just been hit by another daring act of sultriness by the Umbrella crooner. Rihanna's picture on the sleeve of the CD of her forthcoming single 'Only Girl ( in the world )' is really hot with a tinge of red. In the picture, the R&B diva is kneeling down almost nude with a piece of red cloth covering her reproductive organs. She spots a necklace and a bracelet on her arm. Her hair has been dyed red and she looks defiant in the picture. The tattoo on her bum can also be seen in the photograph. This PR strategy to boost sales of the single which will be released iTunes on September 21 is really smart. The sexy artwork will influence music lovers to buy the song.

On her official fansite, Rihanna Daily, the singer took time to talk about her new album 'Loud' that will hit the stores in November. ' I'm done recording the whole album. I made sure not to let you down with my music. You guys are always defending me, so now you've got some great songs to justify it.' She told her fans in a web chat. RV has also gathered that 'Only Girl ( in the world )' premiered on Ryan Seacrest's Radio Show in the US. I heard the song some hours ago and I feel it is going to be a club hit. It is really danceable and you're bound to get up and dance to the song. The chorus of the song goes thus-

' Want you to make me feel,
like I'm the only girl in the world
like I'm the only one that you'll ever love
like I'm the only one who knows your heart.'

The song was produced by the Norwegian hit making duo, Stargate, who were responsible for Rihanna's other singles like ' Hate that I love you', 'Please Don't Stop The Music' and 'Rude Boy'. Rihaanna who was born in St Michael, Barbados, has sold 5,563,000 album units in the United States of America as at July 23, 2010. Her wax figure was unveiled in Madame Tussauds at Washington DC late last month. She won awards for World's Best Selling Pop Female Artist and Female Entertainer of the Year at the World Music Awards in 2007.

Sources: billboard.com, metro.co.uk, sussexexpress.co.uk, RV.
Where To Find Rihanna Online: www.rihannanow.com

WILL TINIE TEMPAH BE THE STAR OF THE NIGHT @ THE 2010 MOBO AWARDS?

Patrick Chukwuem Okogwu has never had it so good. Though his debut album 'Disc-Overy' will be released next month, he is already a force to be reckoned with on the UK Hip-Hop and Grime scene. All eyes will be on the South London rapper if he scoops home all the awards he has been nominated for towards the 15th MOBO Awards to be held at the Liverpool Echo Arena, Liverpool, United Kingdom on October 20, 2010. Okogwu, whose stage name is Tinie Tempah, has been nominated for 'Best Newcomer', 'Best UK Act', 'Best Song' and 'Best Video'. Tinie's breakout single 'Pass Out' ( The video of the song is on YOUTUBE ) debuted at #1 on the UK singles chart in March 2010. The song played a big part in securing Tinie Tempah his 4 nominations at the MOBO Awards. 'Pass Out' also reached Number 6 on the Irish Music Charts.

Tempah is also due to appear at the BT Digital Music Awards. He has been nominated in five award categories and he is tipped to win the awards on the night. He started getting some recognition when the video of his promotional single 'Wifey', produced by Flukes { Crazy Cousins } became an underground hit and subsequently secured the Channel U urban chart top spot for ten consecutive weeks in 2006. Tempah has performed with a lot of big time artists including Snoop Dogg at the 2010 Glastonbury Music Festival. He also supported Rihanna for four dates on her 10-date UK tour with Tinchy Stryder and Pixie Lott. The 21 year old rapper's album will be released by the Parlophone Music Label on October 4, 2010. The album will be in CD format and is available for digital download. RV wishes this cat with a Nigerian heritage the best in his music career. He has a bright future ahead of him.

Source: Yahoo Music, Wikipedia, RV.
Where To Find Tinie Tempah Online: www.tinietempah.com

PAUL I.K DAIRO'S EUROPEAN AMBITIONS.

I wrote a piece about Paul I.K Dairo for AFRICA, St Patrick's Missions Magazine, back in 2007. I remember giving a hint in the write up that Paul Play was aiming for recognition after winning over both youths and pensioners alike in Nigeria. I've been proved right with the style and quality of Dairo's recent songs and videos. His videos are now of international standard and his recent songs makes you feel you're listening to Usher or Chris Brown. I don't want you to come to the hasty conclusion that Paul Dairo has sold out. He remains himself. It is just that Isaiah Kehinde Dairo's son rightly thinks he has something to offer to Europe and the wider world.

Paul Play 2nd R&B album will be released in the UK. He has already secured a publishing deal in Britain and he's looking forward to an international release because he believes his new album will not sell in Nigeria. Dairo arrived at this conclusion because his R&B songs have been widely accepted in Europe and North America. Many Record Label executives in Britain were awed with his talent and production skills after listening to his tracks. Paul Play has worked with Star View Entertainment in Britain and has written songs for Jimmy Cozier on the singer's album. Sincerely, Paul I.K Dairo is one artist that can compete with any American and British R&B musician. He should have made his move to Europe years ago.

According to Paul- 'My biggest regret is that I didn't give R&B a shot early enough. Most of the record executives I met abroad were asking me where I had been all the while.' Paul Dairo, who miraculously recovered from a strange Kidney problem after undergoing surgery in South Africa last year, proved cynics wrong when his 2005 album 'Hitsville' became a huge success. Before then, there was this belief that a 100% R&B album would not do well in Nigeria. With hot and blazing tracks like 'Angel of My life', 'Playground Anthem', 'Crazy', 'You and Me' and 'Forever', 'Hittsville' became an album everyone wanted to lay their hands on. No one was really surprised when Paul Play was the hero of the night at the 2007 Hip Hop World Awards. 'Hitsville' won Best R&B Album, Artist of The Year, Album of The Year and Record of The Year for 'Forever'.

Paul I.K Dairo started out as a Producer/Songwriter and back-up vocalist before he started singing. He produced and featured in Ruggedman's song 'What If'. Other production credits include Slam ( Ebibu Chineke ), Tony Tetuila, Sunny Neji, Mike Okri and Dr Fresh ( Album ). The graduate of Mechanical Engineering from the Yaba College of Technology is the most creative Nigerian artist in recent times. Paul Play oozes creativity in everything he does. His talent should not be confined to Nigeria. The world needs to drink from his cup of musical innovation. He has been in the industry for 10 ten years now and we all know what he can do. Do you know that a Myspace Page has been dedicated to Paul Dairo in Poland? This shows that music lovers in Europe are feeling him. We at RV believe it is time for Tricia's husband to take on the world. What do you think?

Sources: thenationonline.com, RV.
Where To Find Paul I.K Dairo online: www.myspace.com/paulfanclubpolska,
www.myspace.com/paulplay

Contact Us: tolukandi@yahoo.com

Paul Play : Forever { RV VIDEO FEATURE }

Paul Babatunde Dairo is the son of the late Nigerian music legend, I.K Dairo, who remains the only African musician to be honoured by Queen Elizabeth II of Britain in the 60's. Just like his father, Paul has become an accomplished musician. He has been able to present an hybrid of Highlife, Juju, Hip-Hop, R&B, soul and reggae music genres to his fans in Nigeria and Internationally. I have been following Paul IK Dairo for some time now. He started out with groups like Le Griffe ( His Bother, Banji, and cousin, Henry Dairo, both of whom have passed away were members of this R&B group ), De Klan, Oxygen ( Paul still has ties to this group. Tony Tonero [ Died early this year ] and Slam were in the video of his song 'Mosorire' ) and Pure Heart Impression.

Paul Play Dairo has released a number of albums including 'Hitsville', 'Dairo Music Foundation Project' and 'Project II, 2 Ways 2 Play'. He has sold about 8 million copies of his CD's to date. Paul is also an introvert and we at RV are happy that he has not been involved in any scandal since his career started. What else can we expect from a gifted young man who was raised by father with strong christian values? Enjoy the video above. We also have a feature story on Paul Play for you. Happy viewing and reading.

EGO OGBARO FINALLY STEPS OUT OF LAGBAJA'S SHADOW WITH BRAND NEW SONGS.

Ego Ogbaro's decision to pursue a solo career was met with some cynicism by fans of the masked one, Lagbaja. Over the years, Ego and her mentor had recorded songs that virtually became anthems of the Nigerian music audience. It got to a point that people started to read meaning into the close relationship between Bisade Ologunde [ Lagbaja ] and Ego Ogbaro [ Nee Iheanacho ]. If you've taken the time to look at the videos of Lagbaja's songs, you will discover that there is a real synergy between Bisade and Ego. Ego breathed life into Lagbaja's music with her strong vocals while Omo Baba Muko Muko ensured the instrumentation and other aspects of his music were taken care of. This synergy can be seen in these songs- 'Never Far Away', 'Anything For Me', 'Feyin E', and 'Konko Below'. I've realized that Ego's voice charmed and captivated us as Lagbaja's lead singer for the last decade and she's getting better daily.

Ego Ogbaro is from Imo State and she has an Ogun State- born mother and four siblings. She schooled in Aba and Lagos but could not finish her public administration course at the Lagos State University [ LASU ] because she had a flair for French. Ego proceeded to the Alliance Francaise and attended classes there to get her certificate in French Language. It is clear that music is her natural calling and she has done well in this regard. She started out by being a back up singer for her friends in the music industry. Along the way, she met Lagbaja and joined his band. At first, she did back up vocals as usual for the masked one alongside other female singers, but as time went on she became Lagbaja's prominent singer. Ego subsequently blew up and became more and more prominent as she amassed tons of fans across the continent.

After getting married on the 10th of October 2009 to her long time term love, Niyi Ogbaro, at the Archbishop Vining Memorial Church in Lagos, Ego resumed work immediately in the studios as she continued recording towards the release of her debut album. The album which will be released before the year runs out was produced by Cobhams Asuquo [ Cobhams is the blind but highly creative guy behind Asa's self titled album 'Asa' ] and co-produced by Nathaniel Bassey. Let me let you in to a fact. Ego Ogabaro's new material is really good and she will be giving the likes of TY Bello, Lara George and Yinka Davies a run for their money [ That is if she has not already done so as Lagbaja's sidekick ]. Her first single off her album is 'Fall in Love'. The video of the song was shot in New York and it was directed by Kemi Adetiba of K'Alpha Innovations. Eldee Tha Don made a cameo appearance in the video. It is available for viewing on Google's YOUTUBE. Other songs on the new album include 'I believe', 'Bianulu', and 'Palava'. The album is a fusion of soul, jazz, afrobeat and R&B. I have this belief that Ego Ogabaro can become another pop legend like Onyeka Onwenu. She's got what it takes to be an icon like the Elegant Stallion. The title of one of Ego's new songs 'Bia Nulu' might be a testament to this.

Source: www.goodlife.com.ng, RV
Contact Us: tolukandi@yahoo.com

UPDATE ON ALHAJI SIKIRU AYINDE BARRISTER'S CONDITION.

Contrary to rumours that Alhaji Sikiru Ayinde Barrister is dead, RV has gathered that the ailing Fuji Musician who is popularly known as Alhaji Agba is alive. Barrister was flown to Germany late last month for a corrective surgery on his ribs due to a defect that occurred during an operation he had in India earlier on. Reports coming in state that due to the defect that was sustained in India, Barrister lost some weight and his condition worsened. He had to go to Germany to correct the crack in his ribs. According to Alhaji Lati Alagbada, the CEO of Lati Alagbada and Sons, [ The Label manages Alhaji Agba ], Barrister's operation in Germany was successful. Lati Alagbada also said the Fuji icon will be back in Nigeria in two weeks time. RV has been monitoring the progress of Alhaji Sikiru Ayinde Barrister's treatment following the series of illnesses that have kept him bedridden. We've also called on Nigerians and the Fuji Musicians Association of Nigeria [ FUMAN ] to raise awareness about Barrister's condition with a view to getting the Federal Government to come to his aid.

Source: PM News.

Contact Us: tolukandi@yahoo.com

AKON SET TO HEADLINE 7UP'S 50TH ANNIVERSARY CELEBRATION CONCERT IN NIGERIA.

Music lovers in Nigeria are in for a swell time come October 16, 2010. This is because Seven Up Bottling Company PLC will be staging a big indoor concert about two weeks after Nigeria clocks 50 years as an Independent Commonwealth country, with Senegalese-American artist Akon as the headline act. At an interactive session with the media held at Eko Hotel and Suites, Lagos, Faysal El-Khalil, Chairman of the soft drinks company said- 'Seven Bottling Company is planning an anniversary event tagged ''7UP Future Is Green Bash'' on October 16 2010, that will feature Akon and big Nigerian stars.' Akon, whose real name is Aliaune Thiam was born in St Louis, grew up in Senegal and returned later on to the United States with his family when he was seven. He is a Rapper, Singer-Songwriter, Record Producer, Businessman and Philanthropist.

Founder of two Record Labels, Konvict Muzik and Kon Live Distribution, Akon won the Favourite Soul/R&B Male Artist Plaque at the American Music Awards in 2007. He has confirmed that that he is working on a reality show to be known as 'My Brother's Keeper'. The show will feature Akon's two nearly identical brothers going to different places in Atlanta, Georgia, posing as their famous sibling and fooling people that they are the music star. Akon has maintained that people have mistaken his brothers for him many times in Atlanta. This case of mistaken identity will serve as the theme of the reality show. The Seven Up Bottling Company PLC is the Independent manufacturer and distributor of the well known and widely consumed brand of soft drinks in Nigeria- Pepsi, 7UP, Mirinda, Mountain Dew and Teem. The company has nine manufacturing plants in Nigeria with headquarters in Beirut, Lebanon.

Sources: 234next.com, sevenup.org, RV.

DOMINO: DID SHAWN ANTOINE IVY REALLY STEAL SNOOP DOGG'S STYLE?

I remember that look on Yinka Agbabiaka's face back in 1994. We were students of Ijebu-Ode Grammar School, Ijebu-Ode, Ogun State, at that time. Like other teenage Nigerian boys, we were fans of American Hip-Hop artistes and rappers. Yinka was humming Domino's 'Ghetto Jam'to himself in class that day. I looked at him and smiled. Yinka looked up and met my gaze. 'Domino is really good, Tolu.'he said. I agreed with him absolutely. I had spent the previous holiday watching music videos in Lagos and Domino's videos stood out. His music was infectious and he had this laid back way of delivering his rhymes. It is 2010 and I'm wondering why Domino did not blow up like other LA Rappers.

Lets look at how Shawn Antoine Ivy started out as a Rapper and Singer. From RV's research, it has been discovered that two rival LA Gangs, the Bloods and the Crips, did the unthinkable by collaborating on a music project in 1993. The album titled 'Banging on Wax' featured members from the two notorious gangs and it was produced by Ron 'Ronnie Ron' Philips and rapper Tweedy Bird LOC. Though the album was recorded in two weeks, it turned out to be an underground hit with over 400,000 copies sold. Domino was one of the rappers on the album [ Domino performed under the stage name, Genuine Draft, on the LP ] alongside gang members like Sin Loc, Blue Ragg, Red Rag and Lil' Stretch. Domino's track was the first song on 'Banging On Wax' and he caught the ears of Hip-Hop afficionados with his style. The St Louis, Missouri, born artist could rap and sing at the same time. This unique ability set him apart from his contemporaries.

In December 1993, Domino came out with his debut album 'Domino'{ Outburst/Def Jam Records } and the world celebrated the birth of a new rapper. The album had a jazzy feel with thudding beats that brought the dance halls down. Listening to tracks like 'Ghetto Jam' and 'Long Beach Thang' makes you feel that the music is actually being recorded live in your listening space. Domino's songs also had good videos with beautiful ladies that made good eye candy. Have you seen the videos of 'Sweet Potato Pie' and 'Physical Funk'? You're bound to appreciate the fact that men cannot do without women. All the songs on Domino's first album were good and Gilliam [ The composer of most of the songs ] deserves some praise. Domino followed up with other albums 'Physical Funk' [ 1996, Outburst/Def Jam ]and D-freaked it [ 2001/Slipdisc ]. These two albums were not as successful as his first release and Domino gradually faded out of the music scene.

The reason given for Domino's musical demise is that West Coast Rap music fans felt that he stole Snoop Dogg's style. Snoop Dogg was just blossoming when Domino released his first album. This led to Domino's initial followers abandoning him for Snoop Dogg who was being promoted by Dr Dre and Death Row Records. The questions that comes to mind is this: Did Domino really steal Snoop Dogg's style? Or is he a victim of the politics and power play in the American Music industry? Having listened to Domino's songs, I don't think he sounds like Snoop Dogg. Afterall, every genre of music has more than five artists recording at the same time. To me, Snoop was more gangster than Domino. Domino's songs were mainly about having a good time, appreciating women and hanging with the guys in the hood. Snoop on the other hand glorified the gangster lifestyle on his early albums. Domino could have been pushed out of the scene due to the fact that powerful commercial interests on the West Coast Rap Scene might have perceived him as a threat to Snoop's rise in the Long Beach area. The fact that Snoop Dogg and Domino are both members of the Crips gang has not shaken this theory. So what really led to Domino's fall from grace to grass? This is the million dollar question that RV wants to answer as time goes on. No one can dispute the fact that Domino is a rapper that knows his onions. Maybe when he comes out with a new album, we'll get to know the truth behind his absence from the scene for so long.

Sources: RV, allmusic.com, Wikipedia

Domino - Sweet Potato Pie [ RV VIDEO FEATURE ].

Domino was one of the Rap Artists that kept my love for Hip-Hop alive in the 90's. This handsome guy was just too good on the mic. He also had this penchant of featuring beautiful black women in his videos. I'm really impressed with the array of delicious black sisters in the 'Sweet Potato Pie' video above. Shawn Antoine Ivy [ Domino ] was one of the forerunners who spread the message of G-funk before Snoop Dogg and Warren G popularized it. There has always been this notion that Domino stole the Dogg Father's style, and that this was why his career did not last long. I believe Domino's style was slightly different from Snoop Doggy Dogg's delivery. The beats of Domino's songs including 'Long Beach Thang', 'Tales From the Hood' [ Featuring Chill ] 'Ghetto Jam' [ This banging track opened and ended 98% of Campus Shows in Nigeria in the 90's ] and 'Diggady Domino' were really good. The solid beats which keep me nodding were crafted by DJ Battlecat. The Rap Industry needs guys like Domino back on the scene. We have a story on Domino on this page. Relax and Enjoy this video.

Contact Us: tolukandi@yahoo.com

MELISSA BELL: A MOTHER'S LOVE FOR HER GIFTED DAUGHTER.

Sometimes, it is not easy to watch those that came years after us in a particular career or profession hit the limelight before our eyes. The pain could even be deeper if the person is close or related to us. We all have the tendency to be a bit envious when others are doing better than us. However, it is human nature to feel insecure if we perceive others are doing better than us. This brings us to the admirable behaviour of Melissa Bell towards her Award winning daughter and 2008 X-Factor winner, Alexandra Burke.

Melissa Bell, a Londoner of Jamaican ancestry is a former member of the Grammy winning R&B act, Soul II Soul. She was one of the group's singers alongside Caron Wheeler, Doreen Waddell, Lamya Al-Mugheiry and Rose Windross. She left Soul II Soul in 1997 to form and front another group, Soul Explosion. The group has been in existence since 1999. You can watch videos of Melissa performing with Soul Explosion on YOUTUBE. The crux of this article is how she has refused Alexandra Burke's offer to donate one of her kidneys to her in a bid to save her life. Melissa is suffering from kidney failure and she has been on dialysis for about 18 months while waiting for a kidney on the NHS. Bell's family have a history of diabetes and her children Aaron, David, Sheneice and Alexandra could come down with the condition in the future.

Melissa is remarkable as she gives her reasons for not accepting Alexandra's Kidney. According to her- 'I need a new kidney. Alex offered me hers and was very serious about it, but if you take a kidney from a woman who hasn't had babies, you take away her chance of raising a family. That's more than robbery. It is downright wicked.' Melissa knows the consequences of taking her daughter's kidney and she wants Alex to savour the joy of holding a baby in her arms. She has accepted to take a kidney from David, her eldest son. David has just finished writing his final exams at Hertfordshire University and he is willing to help his mother out. After Alexandra triumphed at the X-Factor finals in 2008, stories popped up in the mainstream media about a rift between her and Melissa. The grapevine hinted that Melissa was jealous of her daughter's success. Alex's mum snapped back- 'What type of mum is jealous of her daughter? She doesn't have the millions yet, but when she does she'll look after me.'

Alexandra Burke who celebrated her 22nd birthday yesterday with a work trip to Ireland [ Burke's new song 'Start With You' comes out in the country this week ] will surely be able to take care of her mother very soon. This is because her career is on the rise. Her debut album 'Overcome' ( Syco Music, 2009 ) sold 132,000 copies in its first week of release. Four songs on the album, 'Hallelujah', 'Bad Boys', 'Broken Heels' and 'All Night Long' are very popular and have done well on the UK and Irish Singles Charts. 'Overcome' was also certified platinum in the United Kingdom and has been nominated for Best Album 2010 at the Urban Music Awards. You need to buy a copy of 'Overcome' to get my drift. Alexandra has a £1 Million contract with Simon Cowell's Syco Records [ A subsidiary of Sony BMG ] for winning the X-Factor. She has already received a £150,000 cash advance while the remaining money has been allocated to recording and marketing costs. RV is proud to associate with Melissa Bell and her wonderful daughter, Alexandra Burke [ Burke has been romantically linked with English Rugby player Danny Cipriani recently ]. They have set a good example as to how a Mother-Daughter relationship should be like irrespective of fame and media hype.

Sources: Evening Standard ( London ), Wikipedia, mrpaparazzi.com, RV.
Where To Find Alexandra Burke Online: twitter.com/alexandramusic, www.alexandraburkeofficial.com

NAUGHTY BY NATURE IS BACK TO ROCK THE HIP-HOP MUSIC SCENE.

If you're one of those who keep dropping comments on YOUTUBE about the wack rappers whose music are being forced into our ears by the radio stations, it is time to sheathe your sword and relax. This is because Naughty By Nature is back on the Hip-Hop scene with an album that will be released in December 2010. Naughty By Nature was formed in 1989 in East Orange, New Jersey, USA. After building up a strong reputation on the underground hip-hop scene with their ghetto style brand of music, Treach [ Anthony Crisis ], Vin Rock [ Vincent Brown ] and DJ Kay Gee [ Keir Gist ] came out with their 1991 self titled album 'Naughty By Nature' which announced their talent to the world. One of their songs 'O.P.P' became an anthem to rap fans all over the globe. The song was No 6 on the Billboard Hot 100 and was chosen as one of the top 100 rap singles of all time in 1998 by The Source Magazine.

Mentored by Queen Latifah [ She was already an established Hip-Hop Star in the early 90's ] and spurred on by the number of fans they had, Naughty By Nature continued to churn out hit after hit. The group blessed us with banging tracks like 'Hip Hip Hooray', 'Uptown Anthem', 'Jamboree', 'Everything's Gonna Be Alright', etc. Treach became an actor along the way and he was in the movie 'Juice'[ 1992 ] alongside Tupac Shakur. Treach's friendship with 2pac started after they met on the set of the movie. Naughty By Nature's song 'Mourn You Till I Join You' is dedicated to the rap legend. Treach also appeared in the films 'Jason's Lyric' and 'Who's The Man'. DJ Kay Gee has also worked with R&B groups like Zhane and Next. Naughty By Nature won a Grammy Award in 1996 with 'Poverty's Paradise' which was chosen as the Best Rap Album.

What delights us at RV is that the group's new album is ready. We've gathered that Naughty by Nature have signed a new distribution deal with with their erstwhile label, Tommy Boy Records, to release an EP through the group's Illtown Records. The EP has two tracks 'Get to know Me Better' and 'I gotta lotta' from their new album titled 'Anthem Inc'. The two fresh tracks mentioned are available for download through itunes and other digital retailers. Naughty By Nature as a group has evolved over the years and are still around to make great music. Treach sums up my feelings with his spot on comment- 'Some of the artists out there lost their love for it as they get older in the game. They don't have that hunger and the fight anymore. So they feel they can't keep up. In my book it is like this: Keep doing it until you know you're wack. Good music is good music. If you keep throwing it at 'em and keep feeding the people, they gonna appreciate and respect it.' A check on the group's website reveals that the site is under construction. This goes to show that Vin Rock, Treach and DJ Kay Gee are working behind the scenes to update their gateway to the world. RV will keep you informed about fresh developments concerning Naughty By Nature's new album.

Sources: boombox.com, Wikipedia, RV

Contact Us: tolukandi@yahoo.com

SIKIRU AYINDE BARRISTER'S RECOVERY CONCERT AND FUMAN'S AWAKENING.

RV has gathered that a Recovery Concert is being organised with the aim of raising funds for the treatment of Fuji Music Legend, Alhaji Sikiru Ayinde Barrister. Sources say the Recovery Concert would take place in Lagos and Ibadan [ Barrister has a large fan base in the two dynamic cities ] where his ardent listeners will have the opportunity of supporting him as he goes through this tough period of his life and career. The event which has received the blessings of Barrister's friend and fellow Fuji exponent, General Kollington Ayinla, and the leadership of the Fuji Musicians Association of Nigeria [ FUMAN ] will take place as soon as possible because funds are needed for Barrister's treatment. The sponsors of the concert and other associated events will be revealed to the public in two weeks time. The event will take place at the end of the Muslim Ramadan period.

Another interesting development is the decision of members of the Fuji Musicians Association of Nigeria [ FUMAN ] to open a Recovery Bank Account for Alhaji Agba. FUMAN members have also agreed to contribute 1000 Naira [ £5 ] each to the account. This gesture goes to show that the association has woken up to its responsibility in ensuring that Sikiru Ayinde Barrister recovers from the sickness that has kept him bedridden for some time now. However, RV thinks FUMAN needs to do more. The Association needs to approach the Presidency in Abuja for support because Barrister is a national hero who fought in the Civil War to keep Nigeria together. RV will keep readers informed about fresh developments concerning Alhaji Agba's sickness and attempts to ensure that he does not die needlessly.

Sources: www.tribune.com.ng, RV.

P-SQUARE SEALS $2M GLOBACOM ENDORSEMENT DEAL.

If you can remember, we announced the intention of one of Nigeria's foremost telecommunication companies, Globacom, to sign R&B and African Hip-Hop duo, P-Square, as Brand Ambassadors some weeks ago. We are glad to let you know that the deal has been signed, sealed and delivered. Paul and Peter Okoye were signed as the latest Glo Ambassadors at a colourful ceremony last Tuesday at the Mike Adenuga Towers in Lagos, Nigeria. According to Golobacom's Group Chief Operating Officer, Mr Mohammed Jameel-

'P-Square remains a well focused and popular music group and the youths of this country and the continent find the group worthy of emulation. The choice of P-Square to join our brand ambassadors was therefore not misplaced. We have carefully selected our crop of brand ambassadors and we believe they represent the very best in their chosen professions. We have been actively projecting enterprising Nigerians who have excelled in their fields of endeavour. We are of the firm belief that their faces would help fire the aspirations and dreams of many youths to reach for their goals and rule their world.'

P-Square described the endorsement as a welcome recognition of the group's contribution to the entertainment industry in Nigeria and Africa. The duo also believes that their role as Globacom Ambassadors will inspire them to achieve more as artists. Our sources say the P-Square-Globacom deal is worth $2 Million Dollars. Peter and Paul Okoye are from Ifite Dunu, Anambra State, Nigeria. Their best selling album 'Game Over' [ 2005 ] has sold 8 million copies worldwide. P-Square won the Video of The Year @ the 2008 Channel O Music Awards with the video of their hit track, 'Do Me'. RV felicitates with P-Square on their mouthwatering deal with Globacom.

Sources: nigeriafilms.com, RV, Wikipedia.

TERRY THA RAPMAN'S ORDEAL IN THE HANDS OF LAGOS STATE POLICEMEN.

While most of us were either about to sleep or were enduring the night shift at work, depending on which part of the world we live in, Terry Terhamba Madaki A.K.A Terry Tha Rapman's unfortunate encounter with men of the Lagos State Police Command was just starting. The incident took place last week Thursday in the Ikeja area of Lagos, Nigeria. After engaging in some promotional work with his Manager and having a couple of meetings with him in the Allen Avenue district of Ikeja earlier in the day, Terry also visited his friend who owned an events company to arrange some shows. Around 11pm that Fateful night, Terry Madaki crossed paths with the Men In Black.

As the Nassarawa/Benue indigene tried to get a cab on Toyin Street, a commercial bus packed with Policemen stopped nearby and the cops started pushing people into the vehicle. Terry, who claimed he was not dressed suspiciously or drunk, was not initially approached by the marauding officers. However, the rapper was soon ordered to join the other unlucky victims in the bus at gunpoint. He resisted and was shoved into the bus while one of the policemen quickly sat on his laps as a measure of stopping him from jumping out of the vehicle. Terry's efforts to find out what he had done wrong was rebuffed by the Sergeant in charge of the raid. The Sergeant barked at him to shut up and told him he would know his offence when he got to the Police Station. The Aquarian kept his cool due to the weapons the policemen brandished.

Terry Tha Rapman was locked up in a cell at the Station along with the others. The Rapper however used his initiative and sent text messages to his friends with his BlackBerry, telling them where he was and what he was going through. One of his friends got in touch with the Lagos State Police Commissioner who promptly called the Area Commander of the Police Station where Terry was locked up. The Area Commander swung into action and Terry was brought out of his cell within minutes. The Area Commander identified the gifted Rapper and said he'd gotten a call from Abuja that he had been arrested against his will. The Commander apologised profusely and gave orders that the Sergeant that led the operation should be locked up. Police officers at the Station were surprised and they asked Terry Madaki if he was the son of a Governor. The Rapper told them he was an artist. The officers apologised and took him home in a Patrol Van. Terry's encounter with the Police lasted for two hours.

Terry refused to press charges against the Lagos State Police Command, though he strongly believes the policemen should have queried him before roughing him up at 11pm. Funny enough, two songs on Terry's new album 'Boiz Don Hammer' [ The album will be dropping this month and the video of the title track 'Boiz Don Hammer' will be shot by Clarence Peters ] addressed the type of police harassment he faced last week. Terry Madaki started rapping as far back as 1991 when he was in secondary school. His fame as a Hip-Hop artist grew in Kaduna where he spent almost twenty years. This was due to his featuring on a weekly radio show called 'Rap Attack' where he free-styled and played his demo tapes. He is an alumnus of the Federal Government College, Kaduna and he holds a Diploma in Mass Communications from the Federal Polytechnic in the state. He was a member of the Rap Collective SWATROOT [ Think of Wu Tang Clan and Boot Camp Clik ] which hade Mode 9, Rule Clean, DJ El Dee et al as members. Terry's first album was 'Tha Manifestation' which was released by Payback Tyme Records. He is also featured on the 'Lagos Story Plenti' CD. Terry Tha Rapman is an artist to watch out for. He still has a lot to offer the World Music Industry.

Sources: www.modernghanaweb.com, http://cnenigeria.com/terry/index.htm
Where To Find Terry Tha Rapman Online: www.myspace.com/terrytharapman, www.paybacktymerecords.com

Contact us: tolukandi@yahoo.com

WALAKOLOMBO by Alex Zitto [ RV VIDEO FEATURE ]

This song takes me way back to when I was a kid in Nigeria. Those were the days when the likes of Alex Zitto, Alex Okorigwe [ Alex O ], Daniel Wilson, Blackky [ Edward Inyang ], Oritz Wiliki, Evi Edna Ogholi and Cecilia Omohinmi were holding us captive with their great music. However, Alex Zitto was phenomenal and different in his approach to music. 'Walakolombo' was a nice track that rocked Lagos Night Clubs and Parties. The video of the song was also good with all those lovely ladies and their smiles. Alex Zitto is half-Nigerian and Half-Ghanaian and he was discovered by Chief Ebenezer Obey who employed him as a Bassist in his band.

After winning the Lekki Music Competition in 1988 with his song 'Tickle Me', Zitto became a favourite of Nigerian music lovers. He went on to record his first album also titled 'Tickle Me' with the music label, Polygram International. His second album, 'Walakolombo' increased his popularity and he started performing at many concerts. In the mid 90's, Alex Zitto emigrated to the United States of America. He lives in Minnesota and he is the founder and president of TIYGGI Inc, a sophisticated recording studio. TIYGGI means 'Talent Is Your God Given Investment'. We've heard that Alex Zitto is planning to return to the Nigerian Music scene with his new album which he is still working on. RV cannot wait for this gifted brother to serenade us once again with his romantic songs. Meanwhile, Enjoy the video above.

Where To Get Alex Zitto Online: www.tiyggi.com

DR SIKIRU AYINDE BARRISTER: A FUJI MUSIC ICON'S FIGHT FOR LIFE.

On the 28th of July 2010, rumours hovered around Nigeria that Fuji Music icon, Alhaji Sikiru Ayinde Barrister, popularly known as Alhaji Agba, had passed away. The news spread like wild fire and many of his fans in Europe and North America worked the phones to verify if the depressing story was true. In a matter of hours, Barrister's family issued a press statement refuting the story and evidence that the musician was alive was presented to the media. The legend was indeed still with us as he tried to recuperate on a hospital bed in a private hospital in Surulere, Lagos.

However, it is clear that unless urgent steps are taken by Nigerians and the Federal Government to see that Barrister receives first class treatment, Alhaji Agba might soon be lowered into his grave. RV's investigation has lifted the cover off a pot of information that will make you cry. According to our sources, Barry Wonder has been in and out of hospitals in the last three years. He is said to be suffering from a heart condition due to his weight and other related complications. After being flown to a respected hospital in India where he was operated upon without his sickness abating, Barrister is back in Nigeria to continue his battle to be healthy again. We've received information that Barrister left the Indian hospital because the bills were accumulating while his health was not improving. It is important to note that Barrister denied reports that he had visited Prophet Temitope Joshua's Synagogue Church of All Nations for succour in 2008. Sikiru Ayinde Barrister said he remained a Muslim and would not let his faith down by seeking healing in a church.

So what is Barrister's current state of health? According to our trusted sources, the Fuji exponent's condition is not really improving. Barry Wonder cannot sit or stand up without assistance from people. He also finds it difficult to recognize visitors who have been allowed access to him. Until recently, Barrister found it difficult to defecate but the situation has been arrested by the doctors treating him. Barrister's ailment has elements of hypertension and diabetes. He is said to have developed hypertension after his house was gutted by fire in 1996. Shortly after, his weight led to his being diabetic. RV has confirmed that Barrister sustained a leg injury in 1968 while he was serving as a soldier in the Nigerian Army during the civil war. The injury has troubled the Fuji star since then and the pains he feels has aggravated his bad state of health. Barrister has not featured on the Nigerian Music scene in recent times, and has only been able to perform while seated in the few live shows he honoured.

Though there are plans to fly him abroad for the second time for proper treatment, RV feels it is time for Nigerians and especially the Federal Government to rise to the occasion and ensure Barrister does not die unnecessarily. Alhaji Sikiru Ayinde Barrister is an ex-soldier who fought to make sure Nigeria remained one during the civil war ( July 6, 1967-January 15, 1970 ). He sustained his leg injury which has contributed to his present predicament as a serviceman. This is why President Goodluck Jonathan should intervene in this matter. Barrister is a National Hero and should be treated as such. It won't be out of place if the Presidency funds his treatment abroad and makes sure he is flown out immediately. The Fuji Musicians Association of Nigeria ( FUMAN ) should go beyond asking for prayers from Nigerians and start a fundraising campaign to help one of their own. Nigerians at home and in diaspora can also write to Newspapers and Magazines calling for the FG's Intervention on this issue, and also help raise cash for Alhaji Agba's treatment. RV wishes Dr Sikiru Ayinde Barrister a quick recovery and more years of thrilling us with his brand of Fuji Music.

Sources: www.naijarules.com, nigeriafilms.com, artistdirect.com
Contact Us: tolukandi@yahoo.com

T.W.O LEGIT: A DYNAMIC COUPLE'S NEW ALBUM.

They are one of Nigeria's most admired couples and they've made their marriage a model for single ladies and guys. We started seeing glimpses of their greatness when they were part of the Charly Boy Show in the 90's, but they have raised the stakes in recent years by becoming noted musicians. Now to the gist of the day. RV has gathered that this lovely couple have come out with a new album. Tunde and Wunmi Obe [ As if you don't know who we are talking about already ] released their 5th studio album 'T.W.O Legit' on the 3rd of August 2010 at the Protea Hotels in Lagos. The couple told the media during the launch that the album was inspired by rumours that they were done with music and had embraced Television careers for good.

'T.W.O Legit' was produced by a string of big names in the Nigerian Music Industry. The golden list includes Sean Keyz, Abel Davey, Foster Zeeno, ID Cabasa, Puffy T and Rymzo. The LP is hybrid in nature with dance tracks, thanksgiving songs and family friendly songs in the offing. Watch out for 'Believe In Me'. The track is going to be a classic and our sources say the video of the song is hot. The album's marketing and distribution is being coordinated by Alec's Entertainment and a copy of the CD is being sold for 1000 Naira. Tunde and Wunmi Obe have three children and they are graduates of Lagos State University and the University of Lagos respectively. Wunmi's dad is the late Olu Aboderin, founder of Nigeria's widely read The Punch Newspapers.

Sources: 234Next.com, nigeriafilms.com, RV.

SPICE UP YOUR LIFE WITH AYO OGUNMAKIN'S MUSIC.

I love checking out music videos on YOUTUBE, and I can remember that I stumbled upon a couple of her videos in 2008. I did not really give all my attention to the videos and I soon forgot about Ayo and her music. However, after writing the piece about Nneka Egbuna's rise on the world music stage and her subsequent collaboration with Nas, I recalled my encounter with Ayo. The memories flooded back because Ayo and Nneka are mixed race Nigerians and they both have links with Germany. If you think Nneka Egbuna is amazing, you need to listen to the music of Ayo Ogunmakin. While Nneka is consolidating her position as Africa's Queen of Contemporary Hip-Soul music, Ayo is working her way up gradually as a versatile soul musician.

Joy Olasunmibo Ogunmakin was born on the 14th of September 1980 in Frenchen near Cologne, Germany. 'Ayo' is the Yoruba translation of her first name, Joy. Her father is Nigerian while her mother is from Romania. Ayo lived briefly for a while in Nigeria with her parents as a baby. She had a turbulent childhood as her mother suffered from drug addiction, went to jail, and her parents later divorced. After spending time in care homes and with foster parents, she returned to live with her father and that was when her musical career started. Her father worked as a DJ and had albums of greats like Fela Kuti, Jimmy Cliff and Bob Marley. Ayo naturally developed a love for music and subsequently recorded her first demo tape. She was then allowed by her father to drop out of school and pursue her music interests.

Ayo worked on her voice before releasing her debut album 'Joyful' in 2006. The album achieved Double-Platinum status in France, Platinum in Germany and Poland, and Gold Status in Greece, Italy and Switzerland. The album which was released in the US by Interscope Records in 2007 sold 500,000 copies in France alone, with an extra 750,000 copies snapped up by music lovers worldwide. Her second album 'Gravity At Last' [ 2008 ] was recorded in the Bahamas with Jay Newland as the Producer once again. 'Gravity At Last' is more introspective with some experimentation with the instrumentals. Ayo has two children with her partner, the Afro-German reggae singer Patrice. They live with their kids in Manhattan, New York City.

Ayo Ogunmakin is highly valued in the Western world. On the 4th of February 2009, Jacques Hintzy, President of UNICEF France, announced that she had been chosen as a Patron of UNICEF to promote the right to education for children worldwide. She has performed with Kenneth 'Babyface' Edmonds, Omar and Cody Chesnutt. A documentary about Ayo's life and her musical journey titled 'Ayo Joy', is being produced by 'Slingshots Music' [ Owned by her Music Manager, Fatou Sow ]and will be released later this year or early 2011. She is also working on a third album which will be out in the stores next year. Ayo and Patrice Plan to build a house in Jamaica. RV will keep you informed about the strides Ayo is taking to make the world feel her vibes.

Sources: www.ayomusic.com, Wikipedia, www.wrasserecords.com, RV.
Where to find Ayo online: www.myspace.com/ayo, www.ayomusic.com

Contact Us: tolukandi@yahoo.com

NEW MICHAEL JACKSON ALBUM DROPS IN NOVEMBER 2010.

The King of Pop, Michael Joseph Jackson [ August 29, 1958-June 25,2009 ] is not done with music yet. A posthumous album of unreleased Jackson songs will hit Music Stores this November. The new album which does not have an official title presently will feature 10 new tracks including collaborations with Akon, Will.i.am and Ne-Yo. We've also heard that the album will feature several songs recorded in the 1980's that failed to make the cut for Jackson's hit album 'Bad'( 1987 ).

Michael's former Manager, Frank DiLeo talked about the new album in an interview with Rolling Stone Magazine. DiLeo revealed that he has over 100 completed tracks in his Michael Vault and wants to know what Wacko Jacko's fans think of them. Rodney Jenkins, who produced Michael's 2001 'Invincible' album is currently putting finishing touches on the record. The new LP will be the first release in a ten-album deal Michael's estate signed with Sony BMG early this year. The contract which is worth $250 million will see nine more records released before December 2017. Michael Jackson is recognized as the most successful entertainer of all time by the Guinness Book of Records. He is the eight child of the Jackson Family and began his solo career in 1971. His lifetime earnings from royalties on his solo recordings, music videos, revenues from concerts and endorsements have been estimated at $500 million.

Sources: www.smh.com.au, Wikipedia, RV.
Where To Find Michael Jackson online: www.michaeljackson.com

Blackmoon "Buck'em Down" [ RV VIDEO FEATURE ].

Blackmoon remains one of the most underrated Rap Groups in the history of Hip-Hop Music. I started feeling the dynamic rap skills of Buckshot Shorty in 1993 when I saw him in the video of the group's song 'I Got Cha Opin' [ I coveted the Canadian Hockey Jacket he wore in the video ]. Blackmoon was unique and there was this creative angle to their music. 5ft is also a good rapper and it seems he will be releasing his own solo album very soon. DJ Evil Dee of the Beatminerz is the Pillar of the group. Without his well crafted beats and presence in the group's videos, Blackmoon would not have been popular in the Underground scene. The group's debut album 'Enter Da Stage' sold 350,000 copies in the US alone and is now seen as a classic. I love the video above- The Army Gear, the comradeship, the flow of Buckshot and the camera shots. It is a great video. Enjoy!!

Contact us: tolukandi@yahoo.com

WHY ONYEKA ONWENU RESTRICTED SALES OF HER NEW ALBUM TO CHURCHES.

When we heard that the Matriach of Nigerian Pop music, Onyeka Onwenu, had restricted sales of her new album, 'Legend', to churches in Nigeria, RV decided to investigate further. We can confidently disclose that the Elegant Stallion is selling her 13 track CD in churches, because she wants to stop music pirates from reaping where they did not sow concerning her work. Onwenu who resigned as the Chairman of the Imo State Arts Council recently stated in a newspaper interview that she does not want to be ripped off as usual by Marketers. According to the Imo State born crooner-

' My new CD is doing very well. We are going around in churches doing direct marketing because I don't want to be offered 5 Naira per CD. That is what most artists are getting. The CD's out on the Street are selling for 200 Naira and by the time you remove the cost of the CD itself ( the sleeve/jacket ) and the marketer takes his own share, you as the musician is left with 5 Naira and that is silly.'

Onyeka and her Marketing and Publicity team at Ayollo Productions are selling her new CD for 1,000 Naira per copy. Onyeka also revealed that some people have bought a copy of the CD for 100,000 Naira with a huge chunk of the money going back to the church of the purchasers. A member of the Fountain of Life Church, Onyeka says she did not release 'Legend' to make money and that she is using the proceeds from her work to further the gospel of the lord. RV also gathered that Onyeka has finished recording the theme song for Nigeria @ 50. She recorded the song for free. Onyeka, who is an indigene of Ideato North LG in Imo State, holds a first degree in International Relations and Communications from Wesley College in Massachussets, USA and a second degree in Media Studies from the New School for Social Research in New York. She has released many albums and great songs including 'You and I', 'One Love', 'I'm The One' and 'Wait For Me [ A duet with King Sunny Ade ]'. Onyeka plans to acquire a broadcast licence later in life. Be assured of quality on air programming if she does that. She will be in a territory she understands.

DJ JIMMY JATT: CELEBRATING NIGERIA'S GREATEST DISC JOCKEY.

I have not met Jimmy Jatt physically, but he's always been in my imagination since the early 90's. I don't know if Literary Days are still held in Nigeria's Secondary Schools, but back in the 90's, this special day was foremost on the events calendar of our Grammar, Comprehensive, High Schools and Federal Government Colleges. Though the day was called Literary and Debating Day, it was mostly characterised by dancing, choreography and miming of popular artists and their music. The DJ was the most important person of the day and not the guests on the high table who were usually teachers in the schools hosting the event. The organisers in my school, Ijebu-Ode Grammar School [ J.O.G.S ], were fond of paying Jimmy Jatt to perform at the event. Jimmy would then send one of his boys to deejay for him because of other engagements he had. I never saw this amazing DJ with my eyes, but I witnessed what he could do on the Wheels of Steel through his proxies.

Jimmy Amu was born and raised up in Lagos Island, an old section of Lagos State, Nigeria's former capital. He grew up with music all around him and he developed a deep interest in this genre of the arts. He started listening to a lot of Rap and Hip-Hop albums from the late 70's. It was not long before he started to collect albums of American acts like LL Cool Jay, Kurtis Blow, African Bambaata, NWA, etc. Jimmy Amu's [ JATT is an acronym from the initials of his brothers who encouraged him and gave him a hand up in his early days as a Disc Jockey ] rise as a phenomenal party DJ started when he opened shop on Odo Street in Surulere. Odo Street was located strategically in the sense that it was close to Ojuelebga, a very busy and commercial part of Surulere. This made Jimmy's Studio very accessible to budding Hip-Hop artists in the country. He started organising talent shows in his studios and ended up discovering many talented rappers in the process. He networked with Radio Stations and helped his discoveries get their unreleased songs on air.

There are a few Hip-Hop artists in Nigeria today that do not owe their breakthrough to Jimmy Jatt. He has been in the jockeying game for so long that he's become the Don King of Nigerian Entertainment. Long before we started having modern music labels like Kennis Music, Storm Records, Dove Records and the rest of them, Jimmy Jatt had been producing and promoting budding artists in his unique way. This is what has made him popular. Hip-Hop hopefuls identify with him and help spread the word about his skills. He also helped to nurture the careers of spin doctors like DJ Waxy, DJ Funky J and Mix Master Tee among others. Jimmy's Road Block Street Carnival brought famous artists like Ruff, Rugged and Raw, Daddy Showkey, Daddy Fresh, Junior and Pretty and Aladin [ He was known as Chuck Da Bone before his name change ] to our attention. Jatt has also performed at many concerts in Nigeria and internationally. He has made a Disc Jockeying a noble profession in Nigeria. Jimmy can be referred to as a legend.

If you've listened to the song 'Stylee', a collaboration between Jimmy Jatt, Tuface Idibia, Mode 9 and Elajoe, you'll understand what I've been saying all along about this amazing DJ. The song is out of this world and brought together Nigeria's Hip-Hop dons on a track. 'Stylee' the lead single of his career defining mix-tape 'Definition' was named as the 'Best Collabo' at the 2008 Hip-Hop World Awards and the song's video also won Best Music Video at the same event. Jimmy has two daughters and a beautiful wife. He survived a serious car crash on the morning of Saturday March 15, 2008. His GMC SUV ( Which was purchased from the US in 2005 ) was a total write off after the accident. We thank God that Jimmy Jatt is still with us today. He's currently working on a project called 'Battle Field'in an attempt to discover new DJ's. The project has rolled out and winners will be awarded sums of money and other incentives. His TV programme 'Jimmy's Jump Off' is presently being aired on local and international stations. Jimmy Amu is a man of many firsts and RV is proud of this great Nigerian. Keep the flag flying, mate.

Where To Find Jimmy Jatt Online: www.djjimmyjatt.net, twitter.com/jimmyjatt

Contact us: tolukandi@yahoo.com

SADE ADU TO JAM WITH ALICIA KEYS AND JAY-Z @CHARITY CONCERT ON SEPTEMBER 30, 2010.

British-Nigerian singer, Sadu Adu, will once again keep us entranced with her amazing voice when she graces the stage alongside Jay-Z and Alicia Keys during a charity event on September 30. The seventh annual Black Ball will be held at the New York Hammerstein Ballroom and it is being organized by Keys' Keep A Child Alive Organization . Alicia Keys, who is expecting her first child with Producer-Rapper, Swizz Beatz is delighted that Sade and Jay-Z have agreed to be part of the event. According to Keys-

'Sade and Jay-Z are both icons and both major influences of mine. I'm overwhelmed by their generosity in helping us continue the tradition of making the Black Ball the best fundraiser in NYC.'

The UK version of the Black Ball was held in London this past May with Kasabian and Bryan Ferry performing as guest artists. The Keep A Child Alive Organization assists families struggling with HIV/AIDS throughout India and Africa and has generated more than $10 million since 2004. The KCA has assisted more than 250,000 people since it was co-founded by Keys in 2003. The organization also gives financial grants to Clinical centres and Orphan Care in countries like Uganda and Rwanda. Last year's Black Ball in New York which was also held at the Hammerstein Ballroom raised more than $2 million with a range of celebrities like Nick Cannon, Mary J.Blige, David Bowie, Halle Berry et al supporting the cause.

Sources: mtv.com, RV.

CAN WYCLEF JEAN BRING REAL DEVELOPMENT TO HAITI?

We've just come across vital information that Nel Ust Wyclef Jean, popularly known as Wyclef Jean, is considering running for the Presidency of Haiti. Haiti's presidential election will hold in November as the much maligned outgoing government of President Rene Preval cannot seek re-election. In a statement sent to the mainstream media yesterday, the family of the ex-Fugees star confirmed for the first time that he was toying with the idea of running for Haiti's top job. According to Wyclef's family-

' Wyclef's commitment to his homeland and its youth is boundless, and he will remain its greatest supporter regardless of whether he is part of the government moving forward. At this time, Wyclef Jean has not announced his intent to run for Haitian president. If and when a decision is made, the media will be alerted immediately.' the statement read.

Our credible sources say that paperwork for Wyclef's candidacy at the November elections has already been completed and submitted. With the statement released by the Jean family, rumours of Clef contesting for the Haitian Presidency has been confirmed. The rumours had increased after the January 12 earthquake that took the lives of 300,000 Haitians and rendered 1.5 million people in the country homeless. Wyclef, who was born in Haiti but raised in New York, USA, is very popular in his country of birth where half of the citizens are under 21 years of age. His Yele Haiti Foundation which was set up in 2005 provides scholarships and relief materials to victims of natural disasters. Clef has also served as a roving ambassador with the current Haitian administration.

Though he has good intentions and a desire to bring real development to the devastated land mass of Haiti with his Presidential ambition, there are some hurdles that Wyclef has to surmount. He has to prove that he has lived in Haiti for five consecutive years and that he has property in the country. Wyclef is required to hold Haitian citizenship only. This is where the problem arises. Clef has an American Passport by naturalization. His political opponents in Haiti might use his American citizenship against him. Political analysts are also wondering if the Hip-Hop artist and philanthropist can survive in the dangerous waters of Haitian politics. There are people who also believe that running a country is different from recording songs and performing at concerts. What cannot be waved aside is Wyclef's cult status in Haiti. Wyclef is a former member of The Fugees, a hip-hop unit whose second album, 'The Score' , sold more than 18 million copies and won a Grammy in 1996.

Sources: uk.news.yahoo.com, guardian.co.uk, Wikipedia, RV.

A MESSAGE FROM TOLU IHIDERO.

Hi, thanks for taking the time to view this blog. You're one of those that have ensured that traffic to this site has increased. I want to let you and other fans of this blog know that I put in a lot of effort in updating the site. Getting and processing information online takes a lot of time. Getting a post researched and uploaded can take up to two hours. However, I promise you an exciting experience anytime you visit this blog. As you can see, a lot of features are being added to my page consistently. I will place a chat room on the blog very soon. I'm also going to register on Twitter so that I can give you tips, news, events etc as they happen.

I want REDMAN'S VIBEWORLD to be interactive. Therefore, I'll be glad if you can comment on the stories, articles and videos that we post. Your comments will give us the motivation to work harder and sustain the growth of this Media Product. We also want to know what you think about RV and the kind of things you want us to write about. You'll need a GMAIL address to comment on this blog. We'll also be happy if you tell your friends, family and loved ones about RV. Thanks once more for dropping by. Cheers.

Contact: tolukandi@yahoo.com

BOLLYWOOD SNAPS UP K'NAAN [ WAVIN' FLAG ].

K'naan, the Somalian-Canadian Hip-Hop artiste cum singer, has the world at his feet at the moment. Apart from holding us captive with his well produced song 'Wavin Flag' and appearing on many television shows recently, Keinan Abdi Warsame has won the hearts of Producers in India's biggest entertainment industry, Bollywood. Music composers, Vishal and Shekhar have signed the rapper and songwriter and have already started working with him on some projects. Vishal had travelled to London to discuss another project with a colleague when he discovered that he was sitting on the same table with K'naan's team. K'naan's Manager, Sol Guy, came up with the idea of a K'naan-vishal/shekhar collaboration and the respected Indian Producer agreed on the spot.

Apart from the famous Indian composers mentioned above, K'naan also met with Bollywood actor, Imran Khan. Khan was in the Republic of South Africa for the World Cup finals and was staying in the same hotel with K'naan who emigrated to Canada at age 13. The singer had performed some of his songs including 'Wavin Flag' for a select audience just before the Germany-Uruguay third place match was played. Imran watched K'naan perform and he has this to say- 'I did not know who he was. I had only heard that 'Wavin Flag' was his track. I was mesmerised. As he is a Somalian, his music has that African beat to it'. Imran Khan who believes K'naan's coming to Bollywood is great endorses Coca Cola, the same soft drink which used the Somalian-Canadian's song for its World Cup campaign. K'naan is currently performing at different music festivals in Canada. Some of his songs receiving heavy patronage on YOUTUBE include 'Fatima', 'Take a Minute' and 'I Come Prepared'.

Where To find K'naan online: www.knaanmusic.ning.com, www.myspace.com/knaanmusic

Sources: movies.indiainfo.com, planetradiocity.com

Nneka - Heartbeat ft. Nas [Remix] [ RV VIDEO FEATURE ].

I came back from West London to my crib about an hour ago. As I was browsing in order to update this blog with current events in the Music Kingdom, I stumbled upon a link. It was about Nneka Egbuna's remix of her famous song, 'Heartbeat' with Nas. After listening to this joint, I went to Youtube and found this video. Though it is a slide show, it is lovely watching it. Here is the link I found on the web-

http://darkfishent.com/Home/nneka-heartbeat-remix-ft-nas

You can copy and paste the link above to listen to the song. Nneka Egbuna is holding the world spellbound at the moment. Enjoy this video. Cheers.

NNEKA EGBUNA NOMINATED FOR NIGERIAN ENTERTAINMENT AWARDS.

Hip-Soul artist, Nneka Egbuna, has been nominated in two categories for the this year's Nigerian Entertainment Awards. She was selected as a nominee in the 'Indigenous Artist of The Year' and 'Best Soul/Neo Soul Act of the Year' Categories. The Awards ceremony will take place on the 18th of September 2010 at the BMCC Tribeca Performing Art Centre, New York, USA. Kick off time is 5:30pm EST. Nneka is a Nigerian-German musician who has been creating a lot of stir in music circles since she debuted in 2005. Her first album, 'Victim of Truth' ( Released in the UK in 2007 ) was praised as a great effort by the British Media. She has opened for Lauryn Hill and Lenny Kravitz at concerts and she's currently on tour in the United States. Her Distant Relatives tour with Damian Marley and Nas will continue at Newport,Rhode Island, on the 31st of July 2010.

The Nigerian Entertainment Awards is an annual event that recognises the contributions of Nigerians to the Entertainment industry across the world. The anchor for this year's event is Omawunmi. If you are a fan of Nneka Egbuna, you can vote for her through the link below:

http://nigeriaentawards.com/

Source: nnekaworld.com, RV.

THE LIJADU SISTERS: A BLAST FROM THE PAST.

My father must have been a passionate music lover when he was young. I've come to this conclusion because of the number of records he owns and how he keeps them stacked in the Sanyo Stereo Unit in the sitting room. While going through this stack of records in the late 90's, I came across an album of the Lijadu Sisters. The album was still in a good condition and had as its title 'Sunshine'. The sisters on the album's sleeve were identical in their looks and they were dressed in 70's clothing. I noticed that one of the tracks was titled 'Reincarnation'. I tried to listen to the album back then but other activities made me forget about the Lijadu Sisters until last year. I stumbled upon their music on YOUTUBE, and my further research has shown that the music of Taiwo and Kehinde Lijadu is currently in high demand.

The Lijadu Sisters grew up in Ibadan and were inspired by the music of Aretha Franklin, Victor Olaiya and Miriam Makeba. I could not garner enough information about their teenage years, but they released their first album 'Iya Mi Jowo' ( Mother,Please ] in 1969 on the Decca Records Label. Their music was a mix of Jazz, Afro-beat ( Taking into consideration that they began performing in an era that had Joni Haastrup, Akanka Isidore and Fela Kuti & Koola Lobitos as their contemporaries ) reggae and waka. The sisters worked with the late Biddy Wright [ Biddy was the consumate musician and producer behind the group, Wura Fadaka ] on their third album 'Danger'(1976). This album had tracks like 'Life's Gone Down Low' and 'Amebo'. Another album of their's was 'Sunshine'(1978). This was the album I talked about at the beginning of this piece. A favourite song of mine 'Reincarnation' is on this album. You need to listen to this track. It is well produced and the beat is great. 'Double Trouble'(1984) seems to be the last album the sisters released before they moved to the United States.

Have you taken the time to listen to 'Orere Elejigbo'? This track really made me appreciate the Lijadu Sisters. The lyrics were well composed and the sisters were strong in the vocals. I'm not surprised that they jammed with Ginger Baker, Twins Seven Seven and Orlando Julius Ekemode. Taiwo and Kehinde Lijadu were also in the video of Orlando Julius Ekemode's amazing song 'Adara'. The were the ones in the white clothing and beads. Reliable sources also say the twins had a show on NTA in the late 80's which was known as 'The Lijadu Sisters Show'. I was still very young when the sisters were reigning but their music sounds great today. They have four children between them and it is said that their offspring did not know which of the women was their mother. They also wore each other's clothes. This shows the deep bond between the sisters. The sisters are currently living in New York City, USA. RV does not know if they are still performing gigs or are still in the music business. The sisters have not granted interviews to any Newspaper or Magazine since they left for the States. They have a website which seems to be under construction. There is no central place on the web where their CD's can be bought and their Facebook Page is not interactive. The sisters should realize that they have a lot of fans who want to hear from them and possibly see them at a concert in the near future.

I decided to write this feature on the Lijadu Sisters because we often tend to forget that some people set the pace for artists of today. Before the coming of Yinka Davies,TY Bello, Lara George, Asa, Nneka Egbuna and Ayo, we had the Lijadu Sisters, Theodora Ifudu, Christy Essien Igbokwe and Onyeka Onwenu. I feel it is time our current artists should start drawing ideas from the music of legendary performers like the Lijadu Sisters. I'm not talking about sampling alone here but also the need to bring our local instruments into mainstream Nigerian R&B and Hip-Hop. Why don't you listen to Nigerian Old School Sounds today? Hmn.

Sources: Google.com, Combandrazor.blogspot.com, RV.