Nigeria’s King of Pop, Bob Ejike has just droppeda Christmas present for Nigerian and African music lovers. Twenty-five different singles and an album, in a space of two months! That’s making history. Ejike’s audio CD Forever and Ever confronts Nigerian music purists who believe that Nigerian music must be recorded by an all
Nigerian team, and sounding like D’banj or Timaya. Ejike, whose musical horizon has extended to Italy and East Africa, uses an ensemble and production crew from Nigeria, Uganda and Congo, and dares to sound like the new improved Bob Ejike.

Many are astonished at the sheer number of releases, wondering what Ejike, a world renowned university professor who pioneered Nollywood, launching such superstars as Richard Mofe-Damijo and Lillian Bach, and promoting the Nigerian film renaissance to international recognition, is doing with a 16 track album. However, they relax once they hear the throbbing rhythm, heavy bass guitar and intricate xylophone works in
Change The System, which laments the socio-economic decay in Nigeria and decries the beleaguered lot of the common man.

Egwuoma, an Ibo song re-enacting black history and artistic heritage, surprisingly features Ugandan-born international sensation Cindy Sanyu, singing in flawless Igbo Language. Cindy still shocks the listener with her pidgin English rendition in Gimmi Gimmi. In On The Radio, The multiple award-winner does the extraordinary by
appealing to radio and TV stations to play his music and videos. He continues in Higher, which features the comical duo Aki and Pawpaw, as well as Italy-based Nigerian artiste B.B. Jones, calling on you to request his music on radio, TV and locals. After thirty persistent years in the scene Ejike deserves the attention he
craves.. Why did he shoot forty videos, if not for them to be shown?

In the only reggae track Niger Delta, Bob Ejike, the social crusader, appeals for an end to the crisis in the Niger Delta, and asks the Nigerian government to make efforts to improve the underdeveloped oil producing areas. Other songs include Africa, Where Did It Go? Nigerian Woman, We Are Family, and the classic Does Your Mama Know?, which conquered the airwaves in early 2000. Iyawo Mi, a Wazobian piece on family values, is rendered in Yoruba, Igbo and Hausa, followed by Making Up, (a typical Naija song), Cheating On Me, and Give Me. Ejike, a former NTA (Nigerian Television Authority) presenter, and Sunday Sun columnist, started this project 7 years ago in Lagos, with ace producers Nelson Onome Browne and Chris Okoro, before taking the materials to his studios in Italy and Uganda for continental and international touch. He ignores conventional wisdom, which dictates that for any album to be successful in Nigeria, it must be noisy,
without making lyrical sense, and delves into serious social, economic and political themes.

Bob Ejike juggles genres, from hip-hop to RnB, to highlife-Makossa, with an import that would satisfy Naija hip-hop buffs without alienating his traditional fan base. His fans will be amazed to find the middle-aged crooner an accomplished Naija rapper. The overall African flavour flows through the expertly performed pieces.
This is not one of the all-too-familiar computer-made synthetic albums. All instruments were played and recorded live. The songs were chosen from forty-five mastered pieces, almost all with videos that were shot in breathtaking locations in France, Italy, Uganda and Rwanda. The videos were first launched on Bob Ejike’s
website www.hiphoprhythm..com then on U-Tube, Facebook and MySpace, from which they were borrowed by hundreds of entertainment websites across the globe, making Bob Ejike one of the most famous African artistes in the Internet.

Now you have a Nigerian album that makes sense and sounds different, in which the artiste is not just reproducing another person’s beat and boasting about his wealth and the girls he has slept with. Forever and Ever is not the typical media hit that you cannot find anywhere outside your radio and TV. You can get a copy from the nearest shop to your home for just N100. Ejike, an advocate of art for art’s sake, kept down the price to ensure that everyone can afford a copy.

Those who were wondering whether Bob Ejike would leave acting after starring in 40 Nollywood films, and become a serious musician, will be convinced. The argument about whether he is a better writer, model, actor, singer, or TV presenter will terminate. One thing is certain, Ejike, who was trained by The Reverend Chris Okotie, remains one of the most experienced pop musicians in the continent and a valuable asset to the Nigerian entertainment culture. He is one of the few mature artistes who have survived the onslaught of the young hip-hop rappers, and he did it by being consistent in his style, never copying or imitating anyone. He often complains that there is no recognition for pioneers and multi-talented people who have contributed to the different areas of the art. One price that no one can deny Bob Ejike is the award for tenacity, perseverance and consistency, and that is Forever and Ever. Amen

‘We Are Africans’ is the powerful new single by JJC (digital release date 24 October 2009) which embodies the meaning and significance of  Black History Month. ‘We Are Africans’ combines the sentiment of  pride with clear messages of unity and positivity.  Serious, but also  fun, tongue-in-cheek and wildly infectious, ‘We Are Africans’ is an anthem – in fact it could be labelled as the national anthem for the United States of Africa, a concept which signifies the fortification, unification and reinvention of Africa and Africans across the world.

Nigerian-born and London-based songwriter/ rapper/ singer/ producer JJC aka Skillz first rose to fame when he formed Sony Music act Big Brovaz (their first single ‘Nu Flow’ was a worldwide hit). He then went on to produce for Lemar, Jamelia, Ginuwine, Liberty X, Booty Luv and many others. Alongside these mainstream production credentials, he created pioneering Afropean group JJC & 419 Squad, where he was the producer, songwriter and main vocalist. During this time JJC became a mentor to Nigerian superstars D’banj and Don Jazzy.

JJC & 419 Squad, whose hit songs included “Gbao”, “Atide” and “Kilonsele”, broke new ground with their fresh fusion of hip-hop and African flavours, with lyrics in Pidgin, Yoruba and English. The group managed to reach out to European and World Music audiences as well Nigerian audiences, and they performed at countless events, including major festivals such as WOMAD in the UK and also at MTV Base Africa’s launch concert in Abuja, alongside Ludacris, 2-Face
and Asa.  Their music was used in films (Stephen Frears’ Oscar- nominated Dirty Pretty Things) and on TV (Channel 4’s drama Stealing Lives) and tracks were included on internationally released CD compilations. JJC & 419 Squad picked up a number of awards, too, such as the 2004 Kora award for ‘Best African Group’.

JJC, a true pioneer of the Afro Pop music scene, returns to the spotlight with brand new solo material. “We Are Africans” (feat. J- Rock and Randy of Big Brovaz) is the first single of his forthcoming album, entitled “United States of Africa”.

But don’t call it a comeback – JJC never really went away.  Under his alias Skillz, JJC is a prolific music producer who has produced a  range of hits including “Ijoya” by Weird MC, “Pu’yanga” by Tilla Man & Dola Billz, “No dull yourself” by MP, “Morile” and “Love u 4eva” by Bouqui, “Burn dem” and “True born 9ja” by Ragga Remi, “Nu music” by Smokey, “Anyhow” by Shakar El Swagga and “Why” by Jibola. A multifaceted, talented and creative persona, JJC is also a music
video producer/director and includes “Karmakazee” and “Takerewa” by Olu Maintain feat. Kentro Family, “Omo 2 Sexy” by Justina, “Morile” by Bouqui, “Pu’yanga” by Tilla Man & Dola Billz, “Why” by Jibola, “Swagga po” by Maydaz, “Anyhow” by Shakar El Swagga, “Shake” by DK, “Omo Ele” by Lexzy Doo and many more in his production cache.

The Treatment…defined…’The Treatment’ by Rico White is defined to be a musical cure. This mixtape was inspired by many popular songs we all know and love. The idea of ‘The Treatment’ was drawn up as a cure or assist for any song that was lacking in its own right.

Whether it was an ad-lib, a 3-part harmony, a rap verse, or the infamous use of Auto-Tune, Rico White set out to bring the music industry to perfect health. With both classic and unreleased tracks, this mixtape introduces a new sound, known as AfroWave.

AfriGang Is The Label – AfroWave Is The Sound – Agidi Is The Movement…Triple A

‘The Treatment’ is yours for FREE, by clicking on the links below.

http://limelinx.com/files/16d808c60edab3307cf2ad3310ddf42d

http://www.datpiff.com/Buck3000_Rico_White_The_Treatment.m69650.html

http://www.zshare.net/download/663899292bd5bd9e/

AfroStyle Magazine (http://www.afrostylemag.com/) afrostyle is a premier online magazine focused on Africa and Africa inspired lifestyle and fashion. It covers contemporary issues such as fashion, health and healthy living, entertainment, tourism, sports, arts&culture and more.

Afrostyle magazine supports and promotes African Fashion in its entirety and highlights the fusion of Contemporary African Fashion with today’s Western and European trends in clothes and accessories. In addition, we celebrate achievers and trend setters who positively represent Africa. Also, educating readers about Africa in fun and interesting editorials.

AfroStyle offers a forum for people of African descent and other races to interact on contemporary issues of the day in a way that not only encourages positive dialogue and understanding of the issues, but will give readers a better perspective of Africa, its peoples and cultures.

Amake Nkele, the CEO of Afrostyle was interviewed in www.AfricanRadioOnline.com and the magazine is currently featured on website. As well as  www.Ciaafrique.BlogSpot.com and South African radio 5fm’s website www.5fm.co.za

Please take a moment to check out the site and feel free to give leave your feedback and comments on the blog.

“ALL AROUND THE A” FEAT. NAETO C(NIGERIA), NAZIZI ( KENYA), ZEUS (BOTSWANA), HHP (SA), PROVERB (SA), CIBIL NYTE ( WINNER OF EMCEE AFRICA II)

Emcee Africa II winner Cibil Nyte may be new to the game and just a teenager but he’s about to blow with his first single.  Titled ‘All Around The A’, the fresh track features Nyte with African hip-hop royalty. What’s more, ‘All Around
Africa’ features a voice from co-host of Emcee Africa II Lee Kasumba as well as hot singer Tamarsha on vocals and chorus.

Naeto C, along with all the other emcee’s on the track were judges at the emcee africa finale in Mozambique, a few months ago. This song was recorded during that time. A video has also been shot and will be out real soon!
As usual ‘Mr. Super C’, represented!

‘More Bars than a life sentence, cuz the swag’s locked down’ YES BOSS!

Naeto is currently working on his second album which is going to be called, ‘Super C Season’.  The first video just dropped, ‘Ako Mi Ti Poju’, and is already recieving a very good response.

STORM would like to shout out and send respect to and respect to Emcee Africa, Channel O, Vuzu, Lee, Republic, Proverb, HHP, Nazizi, Zeus and Tamarasha. Watch out for other local and international collabo’s featuring Naeto C.

‘All Around The A’ makes its debut on ‘Young, Gifted and African’ October 2009, exclusive to Channel O!

Being one of the hottest Dj’s in the Washington Metropolitan Area. From the streets of Queens, New York to the quiet hills of Eastern Shore, Don X has blessed dance floors across the east coast with his multicultural/multinational party mixes. Inspired by Naija artists such as Maintain and Lagbaja, he incorporates Hip-hop and R&B tunes with the Afro beats of our motherland (Nigeria), creating classic combinations that even world renowned DJs are impressed with.

He possesses the stereotypical qualities of a Dj which are the good looks, charm and the ability to get a party jumping, but he’s also got stuff some Dj’s out there ain’t got which is mad talent and passion for music. He breathes music, thinks music, talks music and madly loves music; unlike most Dj’s who take it as a job, Don X isn’t into djin’ for the money but rather for the passion he has for it.

Who really is DJ Don X? Well sit back and relax as we take you on a solo ride into his world.

Why djing?

Why djing?! Interesting question cos I personally don’t know how or why djing. Very few know how it started so I guess that can lead to the why. Well it started as a joke while in college back in the day ; Myself and some friends attended a house party on a Friday and Saturday and the Dj did something where by he played a track that had girls dancing with themselves which was annoying to say the least. So the next weekend we decided to throw a party with yours truly providing the music. I can say matter of fact that I wasn’t much better than the guy but it was all in good fun which I welcome. The whole thing kind of grew from there and has gotten to the point where allejo.com wants to ask lil ol me questions.

So to answer the why, It’ll be cos djing provides an escape from the norm and reality for me in that, while ‘entertaining’ you see the joy or fun people are having and its quite a good feeling especially since its from what you as an individual are doing and also it has grown to be a passion of mine.

Can you tell us more about you?

More about me. Let’s see. I try not to say much about me but I won’t say I’m just another guy cos I believe I’ve been truly blessed to be ‘just’. So I like to believe I’m a stress free individual who likes to associate with people of like minds like yourself Tunde and the Allejo team, Mixmaster brown of afrijamz.com, Solitude of party addicts and the Nigerian DJs coalition to mention but a few who believe in what they do and do it for the sole purpose of making a positive difference which is what I am about.

I am a little bit of a techie being as I sleep with my laptop by my side 24/7 and hold a degree in Aviation Software Engineering and presently working on my Masters in Information Technology and my MBA. I obviously love music and think Nigerian music meets and surpasses any industry’s standard at the moment which is the reason I listen to it so much lately. I grew up in Lagos and now reside in Maryland, US for the most part. Not sure what else to add lol

Why the choice of ‘DonX’ as a name, any catch to it?

If I tell you, I’ll have to kill you. lol. No, but Don X was a name that came up out of the blue one day in a mini revelation kind of way to me and I liked the way it sounded. This was of course before I started djin; For the most part its meant to represent an unknown Don that is having the title and respect of a Don like that in such organizations as we know and yet still not be known. If that makes sense!. So when I started djin and needed a name, I took a poll and Don X sounded good to those who were asked and here we are…with Don X.

How was growing up like?

Growing up..wow! Well growing up was anything but easy but still I thank God for his grace, mercy and blessings. I’ll just say this to that question that regardless of how bad it is and what you have gone through, with perseverance, faith and hard work, you’ll get to a point where you put the lessons learnt from the past to use and you forget the pain you’ve been through.

You are regarded as one of the most popular Djs in the US, how has the stardom changed your life?

*laughing* honestly, I’d say or rather, I didn’t think I was that popular and I’m not sure stardom is what I’d call this at the moment but whatever it is, has changed my life in that being the private person I am, it gets seemingly harder to separate the person people know as Don X from the quiet guy people don’t know. But it hasn’t been so bad and besides the attention from artists who need their tracks played, I don’t think it has changed my life too much.

How do you cope being a software programmer and a dj?

Interesting question bro. Well its not easy but its not impossible in that I am a System Engineer actually and love it as much as I love djing and like my Don X Ent. logo has the ying yang symbol on it signifying balance, I try to balance both in such a way they do not have a negative effect on each other but it does sometimes get a bit too busy yet I don’t mind as I rather be busy than idle. So balance is key and I’ve done a good job in doing that so far but on the days I have to get from work and go do my radio show or get ready to dj at a club on a Friday and then on Saturday and sometimes Sunday too. Lets just say God is my strength.

Any ideal role model?

Role model! I honestly haven’t given much thought to a role model, I just seem to have more knowledgeable people around me to learn from, usually older folks and that has worked well for me so far. If I were to pick a role model, it would be my mother, as she has like a good mother should, taught me and shown me the path to walk in life so as to be a better and whole person overall.

If it relates to djin. I’m so into old school that djs like Jazzy Jeff, Jimmy Jatt and Mixmaster Brown come to mind when it comes to djing.

How long have you been into djing?

I’d say I’ve been into djin since I started listening to mix shows on radio in Nigeria growing up but I didn’t really know what it entailed, and like any other teenager, I got into loving music more when I started collecting all and every kind of good music I can find which I still do till today. But then in college I got serious with it when my curiosity was sparked by a new djin software and the rest is history.

Since then till now, would you say you have improved over the years?

Oh! most definitely. I would think in anything a person does no matter how or where you start, it is key to improve and I have improved a whole lot over the years since I started. Basically for a dj it’d be in confidence, song selection, transition and beat matching and most importantly reading your crowd. But I am still trying to learn a lot so I intend to keep improving if I continue djing.

1st time on the wheels??

First time would be in college at a house party my friends and I threw 05/06 I think, but prior to that I seem to always have been in charge of the music at any party. Truth is, anytime I spin still feels like the first time. I would admit I still get nervous and I believe that’s a good thing as it keeps you as a person on your toes and there’s still the thrill when you do a good job that makes it all worth it and the experience new everytime.

What inspires you?

Well when you do something that you’re passionate about, you barely need anything more to inspire you as that is inspiration on its own but in support of that I think the vision of having Nigerian music as widely accepted as American or Jamaican music is makes me push our music more. In that one day when they play our music back to back out here in the states I’d know and be satisfied with the thought that in some way I was a part of making that a reality.

Despite their efforts, Dj’s are often relegated to the background in terms of financial benefits/awards. what is your view on this?

Men don’t get me started on this cos I can go on and on. It has been argued before and it will continue to be argued regarding the importance of a dj to the music industry. Djs spend more money on equipment than anyone in the industry unless you’re factoring a recording studio into the equation. Djs spend more time at an event than anyone else involved in the event, Djs spend possibly more time learning the craft more than most in the industry too. And yet they get either paid the least or disrespected by most by not getting the recognition that is duly deserved. I mean imagine a hip hop award without a DJ category. I’m not talking about a regular award show. I mean an award show dedicated to hip hop with no dj recognition. Its hilarious!!!.

Let’s put a mic down and a cd player and when artist are done I’d like to watch them play their record over and over for their audience and spread the word in several cities, countries and continents by themselves.

Because the basic fact is that people underestimate the work done by the djs and their importance in the industry. The only djs that might be making the deserved pay are those that have been in the game for decades and they very much deserve what they get paid now but that aside, a little appreciation goes a long way in making the people who do put so much into this exclusive art that is called disc jockeying. Maybe if all djs in the world strike for a month the industry would be able to grasp how important they are and give props to those who do deserve it.

Any awards so far for the hustle?

The hustle! I like to call this hustle fun and to answer your question, I haven’t gotten any awards and never expected one to begin with but I would say the comments and props I get from people that enjoy what I do is enough award for me.

But we have to keep in mind also that as I mentioned earlier, there’re not that many awards for djs and there are so many djs out there that deserve the awards so I am somewhat contended in not trying to look for a needle in a haystack.

What are your views on the Nigerian Music Industry?

My views are that we’ve come a long way but there is still room for improvement. Primarily in production, in that I notice a lot of people are trying to rush something out and make it a hit that they do not spend the necessary time in making it unique and different. There’s been too many similarities in the music coming out lately and its gets old and tiring and I start to wonder if this people that call themselves artists realize that there is the word ‘Art’ in their title for a reason and that art means creativity.

If you create something that’s similar or the same with what someone else has created, how do you then stand out as an artist? In addition to making good music, artists also need to be able to actually perform at their concerts. I don’t mean just come out do their tracks but actually put on a performance that is worth the money people pay to see them cos the amount they charge for 20 mins, djs don’t make in 5hrs lol. But once those can be worked on and entertainers put certain ego trips aside and help each other out to put Nigeria on the map, I think we’ll really “run things”.

Are you thinking of delving into singing/producing anytime soon?

I already rap now. Haven’t you been listening to my show ‘The Don X-zibit Show’ where I do my as its called ‘Koli Koli’ rap lol. At the moment I’m not so much thinking about the singing or rapping aspect as much as the production. I just want to take things one step at a time and establish the Don X brand; because that’s what I view it to be and then maybe get into production sometime down the line but that is a huge maybe though butI won’t be surprised if you heard a Don X track out sha.

What are the challenges you faced before reaching this level?

The challenges as with dealing with Nigerians or Africans has been the initial negativity when you try to do something new or different people just plainly don’t like. Doesn’t mean its horrible but just cos its not the norm its sometimes instantly frowned upon which was sort of the case when I started. There are very people who try to guide and provide assistance in helping you achieve your goal, as most seem eager to pull you down and tell you how bad you are as opposed to how you could get better. I’m sure so many artists can relate to this in their career path in the industry but like I said earlier perseverance is key.

I would call this level a stepping stone because I am yet to attain the level I have in mind and when I do, Tunde you’ll know and we’ll definitely have another interview.

What genres of music do you think get the crowd moving?

Depends on the setting. I personally am a fan of dancehall which seems to be the genre Nigerian music is pulling towards lately and that always more often than not gets the crowd out here not just moving but jumping.

Where do you hope to be in the next 5, 10 years?

In the next 5 years, as far as djin goes I want to have added at least 10 more countries to places I’ve dj’d at. I’m thinking Japan, Jamaica, Spain and France to name a few. In 10 years by God’s grace there should be a Don X jet to take me to those gigs after work cos I do want to have my IT career thrive as well but djin 10 years from now would be on some presidential event stuff because if it stops being fun I doubt I’ll still being the game.

Any upcoming project?

There are always projects, I still have my unstoppable mixtape series and just joint with Solitude of Partyaddicts Worldwide. I am working on a mixtape that focuses on new acts called Rated NextEffex and my show’s audience on www.afrijamz.com keeps growing every Tuesday and Thursday 8pm EST and there is also my mash up of tracks I do and working on doing a video cypher of African artists free styling in the works and there is my African video mix project also coming out. So if you don’t want me to over use the word ‘and’ just check out my face book group called “Don X Ent. – ‘innovative spin to music’ ” and my fb page is www.facebook.com/djdonx and on afrijamz you can listen to my previous shows on www.afrijamz.com/donx and download them. But upcoming primarily are gigs out of the US, some concerts and parties going down. So anyone could always find out about it or hit me up for their next event anywhere in the world by emailing me at djdonx@gmail.com

What’s up with your project, Afrijamz?

Well my project afrijamz is more like a family project cos I call them my afrijamz family (mixmaster brown, omobade and taimi). My show started when mixmaster brown one of the sickest djs out there that used to tour with the Benson & Hedges back in the day buzzed me that he just started a radio station and if I’d be interested in doing a show. Of course I said I would and the Don X-zibit show was born, which is primarily focused on giving not so commercial African artists a chance to get heard with a Don X touch in the mix. This was over a year ago and we’re doing quite well and working towards the height we strive to attain.

So to those who don’t know Afrijamzis 24 hour African radio station dedicated to the best music you can hear and we have several shows running including mine that airs Tuesdays and Thursdays 8pm EST US; which is 1am Friday morning in Nigeria and the UK.

3 things you can’t live without?

I’d say my bible but that’s already on My laptop, lightening fast internet and My Personal Dumb Assistant (or cell) as I like to call it.

I know you probably get this a lot but I’d still ask. are you single?

Oh men..well …er ..I am married to God. Next question!

Your favorite beach?

My favorite beach so far has to be Miami beach. Was out there a lil while ago and it was worth it to say the least.

Any advice for upcoming djs?

Practice, practice, practice then practice some more. I use to stay up practicing when I started and then go to class and come back and continue and right now I barely sleep the night before a gig cos I’ll be practicing. Another advice is tp pick djs you like the way they spin and listen to their mixes, especially those that have been in the game for a minute. When I started out I used to bug dj Dee Money every time I heard a mix and asked him how he did it, same thing with good djs I know out here in the DC area.

If you have the time, shadow a good dj and see what happens live cos spinning in your bedroom is totally different from having a live crowd and never think small. There is always something new and different to be done. Be innovative.

Word for allejo?

Shout out to the allejo team. You guys are doing a great job and I know getting to the point you are now it definitely has not been easy. So please do keep up the good work in getting better and better and thank you so much thinking it necessary to reach out to me for an interview. I do appreciate it and should be in Nigeria by December.

As we continue an unending journey in the entertainment industry, we will proudly like to state that the time has come for the listening party and release of the latest studio album from Roll-A-Dice Entertainment recording artiste Jahborne.

The album is titled M.O.N.E.Y and features the hit songs ‘Egba Mi’ Ft W4, ‘Jogodo’ ft Klever Jay and KSolo, ‘Hood’ ft OJB and lots more.

With productions credited to Ksolo, Jahborne, DXL and a host of others, this album stands to be a trend setter and a must have in 2009.

The event will kick off at the Cubes sports bar, Silverbird Galeria, Victoria Island on the 29th of August 2009 with a guest only party and media access, including exclusive interviews and performances by guest acts and end with a walk through the album by the man of the moment Jahborne.

An after party has been billed for K’s place in VI.

Guests expected to be at this event are: Frank D Nero, W4, Mtrill, OJB, Tuface Idibia, Klever Jay, Ramsey Nouah and lots more.

Also on the 5th of September, we will be launching the album exclusively in Port Harcourt at the Bootleggers night club, Waterlines. More information will be coming soon.

These Events are free to attend by RSVPing on the event page on facebook http://www.facebook.com/home.php?#/event.php?eid=111506824352&ref=tsv or by calling the following number: 08037147801.

See if you can spot the sexy lady on the corner with a Roll-A-Dice Tee shirt on and request for a copy of the CD .

Many thanks and kind regards

Diane Divine
Director for PR
Roll-A-Dice Entertainment and Media Ltd
Www.rolladiceent.com <http://www.rolladiceent.com/>

……Its more than urban music!!!!

He is regarded as one of the foremost DJs in Nigeria and beyond. He’s a popular face on radio and he is also the in-house DJ for one of the top radio stations in Nigeria, RayPower FM. Allejo welcomes you to the world of DJ Neptune whose real name is Patrick Imohiosen.

DJ Neptune is currently working on his mixtape and need i say any further? Read up this interesting and detailed interview to find out more.

Can we get a brief into who you really are?

DJ Neptune is a human being like every other person out there and the names are Imohiosen Patrick and am from Edo State. From a family of four (Three girls and a boy), I was born in Lagos state and lived all my life in Lagos.

Why the choice of ‘Neptune’ as a name, what is the story behind it?

The truth is the name Neptune came by accident. As a DJ that could rock a party way back, I needed a striking name that’s not common and one that people would hear and want to know whats up with the dude behind the name. I was always fond of playing(scratching)a particular part of a record performed by Busta Rhymes and produced by The Neptunes and I got so addicted to this act that I kept repeating it at different parties. Before I knew what was going on, people started calling me Mr Neptunes, we know u will repeat your normal act at this party ( laughs). I got home and thought about the name and then decided to stick to it. I removed the S cos of piracy and sticked with DJ Nep2une but people kept mistaking it for DJ Neptune so I just left it that way.

Why did you decide to go into DJing, especially at a time when money and fame could not be ascribed to it?

Music and entertainment has always been something I ever wanted to do since when I was young. I started off with singing but my folks discouraged me so I had to step down for a while. I then had the opportunity to do what I wanted to do when I lost my dad and it all got into me when I attended a friend’s party and watched how the DJ performed. Since music and entertainment has always been something I wanted to do and it had connections with DJing, I decided to stick to DJing believing one day my labour and hard work will bring me to lime light.

You are regarded as one of the top DJs in the game home and abroad, you have definitely paid your dues to reach this stage. What were the striking challenges you faced before reaching this stage?

It wasn’t easy coming this far but that’s life for us. We are meant to come across challenges at every stage of our lives and this keeps me moving strong. It wasn’t easy to get a DJ to put me through until I finally met with DJ Douglas (Based in the U.K).

He believed in my dreams, put me through and gave me the chance to practice with his equipments. Thereafter DJ Douglas left for London, I kept the hustle on and got a job with Ray Power 100.5 FM as the in – house DJ and from there the rest became history.

How did you learn to use your first piece/set of dj equipments?

The first time I played on a djs equipment was in 2000 at a party with my boss, DJ Douglas. I already knew the basics of DJing and while the party was on he needed to take a break so he could make use of the rest room. While he was away, the music that was playing was about to end so I built up the courage, picked up another record that on was the same tempo with the song that was playing, cued the first beat, released the beat on the other song’s beat, dragged the pitch on the turn table and that was how it started. DJ Douglas rushed out of the rest room to find out who was on the turn tables and to his greatest surprise it was me. He took over from me and on our way back home after the party he told me to go buy my set of pin and cartridge and come for more lessons. That night was my happiest night so far.

We must congratulate you on picking up the prestigious NEA award 2009 as the ‘BEST DJ 2009′. Did you ever thought about picking the award this time, considering the fact that was the second time you were actually nominated?

I thank God for the awards, everybody out there that voted for me and RayPower FM for exposing me to the world. I didn’t see it coming but I learnt from the previous nomination that there’s more work to be done. Been nominated is something and we had other good DJs on the category (Shout out to the other Naija DJ’s). Well I got myself busy with different projects aside DJing on radio and am happy it resulted to something positive and I give God the glory.

Neptune, what does this award really mean to you? Will it be right to say that was the highlight of your career?

YES it is. Traveling outside the shores of Africa to go grab an award in the United States Of America was something big for DJ Neptune and again that was the first award I ever received all these years. I urge our promoters and award organizers back home to learn from this. DJs are not just to be seen as regular people in the entertainment industry, we are the pillar between the artists and the fans so DJs should be rewarded with awards, get well paid etc. This is just the beginning and I believe it’s not going to be the last award DJ Neptune will receive. Once again I thank God.

You work with RayPower FM, as one of their in-house deejay, what is the difference with mixing beats on radio and parties?

It all depends on how versatile and sensitive u are as a DJ. If you are DJing on radio, you should have it in mind that you are DJing for different sets of people. You got the happy people, depressed people, working class people, teenagers, kids etc listening to you on radio at different time of the day so you should be able to play different genres of songs and also watch out for songs with curse words because of the lil kids listening to you. If you are DJing at a party or club, it’s quite different because everybody present at the party wants to dance and enjoy themselves. So you need to be very sensitive as a radio DJ and know what to do and play at certain time of the day.

What is the lowest and highest fee you have collected for DJing?

The lowest fee I ever got was 3,500 thousand naira when I was still hustling (laughs) and the highest I got some years back was 150,000 thousand naira. But now when gongo don so (laughs), the least you can get DJ Neptune for now is 300,000 thousand naira and above.

What is the largest crowd you’ve ever had to DJ to?

The largest crowd I ever DJed was at the Calabar festival and the venue was the Calabar Football Stadium with over 20,000 people standing in front of me while some sat down. it’s was me, Neato C and Ikechukwu that was on stage.

What genres of music do you think get the crowd moving most?

That depends on where you find yourself as a DJ and the crowd in front of you so I really cant speak on that but as for me I will just study the crowd for the first few minutes and get my groove on.

Most people in your line are moving into the production line, could there be any reason behind it considering that you are deeply involve in the production line too?

DJs have a good and wide sense of music. World famous Timberland was once a DJ before switching over to production. You have lots of them like that in the industry so I don’t see anything wrong with it. You find DJs abroad doing different remixes of several artists and that’s also a regular thing that suppose to be relevant in the Nigeria music industry.

How soon should we be expecting your mix tape and what major collaboration (locally and int’l) are there to look out for?

Work is still going on with the mix tape album and as soon as it’s done Allejo will be the first to know. Have got heavy collabos on the mix tape album with artists like Neato C, Banky W, Da Grin, Jessy Jags, Iceburg Slim, Mode 9 etc and lots of stars in the making. I leave the rest till the album drops.

What will you be doing with music in the next 5, 10 years?

I want to be a C.E.O of my own record label, sign artists, have my t.v show, embark on my official tour around the world and many more.

Who will be in your top five-naija club-banger music producer’s list in the country?

We have got lots of great music producers and beat makers and I don’t really want to mention names but they know themselves and I will leave it that way. Am sorry I can’t call names cos its more than what you are asking for.

What is favourite whip (car)

I am not really crazy about whips but there’s a particular car I would like to have has one of my private whips and that’s a Lamborghini car but for now am still managing my Honda Accord.

Best hangout in Nigeria?

Swe Bar, City Mall is the perfect place for me.

What was the lie you told recently?

Hmmm can’t remember cos we lie every day of our lives either intentional or not.

What is your most popular line/saying?

No Wahala…God dey (lol).

Are you Xtremely naija/truly naija?

True born and breed Nigerian. Them say make we no dey call am Naija again (laughs).

Any word for Allejo?

Thanks for the interview Allejo. You ROCK, DJ Neptune says so.

Finally the wait is over and Kel is out with her debut album titled ‘The Investment’. The album is presently banging across all media stations and you gotta go get your copy NOW!!

As part of the activities to celebrate with Kel on her achievement, Allejo brings you the Part 2 of KEL: THE TRES INTERVIEWS. The Part 1 of this highly interesting interview can be checked on Werunthings while the Part 3 would drop on SwitchedOnNaija

In this Part 2 of Kels Tres Interview, She talks about her strengths, the rave she’s currently enjoying and how she was able to bridge all odds to deliver a successful album. (This interview was conducted before Kel released her album)

From a feature appearance to dropping your debut singles, why the long wait and why ‘The Investment’?

The wait has been due to a lot of things. First and foremost, publicity. I couldn’t put an album out without people knowing who I am and what Kel is all about. You need to give the people more because they’re not just going to buy your album based on 1 single alone. And then you gotta publicise your works. I’m not going to release an album that will sell only in Lagos. It has to be a hit everywhere; in and out of Lagos, in and out of Nigeria. There’s a lot of work to be done before you throw out an album. The album is called ‘The Investment’ because a lot of people have invested a lot into this. Time, effort, money, energy, sacrifices, compromises; whatever you name it. So this is our investment and it’s finally here.

Mode9, M.I., Illbliss, Ruggedman etc all try to express some lyrical punch line in form of views and opinions about each other, will Kel be hitting some folks below the touchline with this forthcoming album?

Nope. I’m not in this to start up fights or beef or anything. I love what I do and I have fun doing it. So am not thinking like I have to knock this person off or anything. Music is my thing and that’s what am doing.

You seem to be the only female rapper topping some Naija chart list, is there any real competition?

Well I don’t know. Like I said before, I’m just having fun doing what I know how to do best. There’s space for everyone to do whatever so I don’t know about competition or anything like that.

What will Kel consider as a successful album?

A successful album is an album that stays relevant over a long period of time. An album that you can pickup 5 years from now and still bump your head to. An album that you can sit and listen to without having to skip a track. An album that touches people. An album that helps someone get through his/her day. An album that when you put it on, makes you feel happy, sad, reminisce, groovy etc. An album that makes you realize and remember that music is one of the essentials of life. That’s my definition of a successful album.

You got two HHWA Nominations for ‘Wa wa alright’ will you say you deserve any of the awards or  should I just ask if you are contended with the outcome of the awards, since it seem you created more online and viral buzz around your nomination?

Of course I’d say I deserved to win. Who wouldn’t? lol. But on the real, it is worth it and being nominated for not 1, but 2 awards was a trip. The fact that I’ve come so far with just 1 single is enough to give me a head rush. So yea, I didn’t win but that doesn’t define who I am and my stance in this industry.

What is your relationship with M.I.?

I never get tired of answering this question. It always makes me laugh. M.I. and I are very good friends. Let’s move along, nothing here to see folks. lol.

Where do your creative strengths truly lie?

Wow. My creative strengths? I guess I’d say in God. He gave me this talent to begin with, so everything I do, everything I am today, I owe it all to him.

Kel, one cannot but ask what you hope to achieve with your forthcoming album considering the number of supposed feature appearances, each with one with his/her mad skills?

With all the features I’ve got going on, maybe the album should have been called Kel and Friends. lol. But on the real, all these people are highly talented and gifted in their different genres. They bring a certain something to the album. All I had in mind was making beautiful music and each of these artistes fit the bill so hey, let’s have music then. lol.

3 things you cannot do without?

Lipgloss, Phone. dunno about 3rd thing o!

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