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.

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!

Globally renowned fashion model turned pop singer, the Nigerian beauty Tinu has walked runways worldwide, while her multi-cultural flair has landed her on the style pages of Vogue and the New York Times but now the talented vocalist inspired by Nina Simone, Grace Jones, Fela Kuti and George Michael prepares her nationwide musical project ‘Addicted’ featuring the hit singles ‘Wild Things’ and ‘Shoeholic’

In this expressive interview, Tinu talks about her life, and her latest project which she calls ‘Addicted’.

Can we meet you?

Yes of course! I hope to be in Nigeria this fall if all goes well with my plans. So much to do, so little time. I really miss Nigeria so much it’s almost unbearable.

Why did you decide to go into music?

You will have to blame my social club in high school for that. That was where the entertainment bug bit me long time ago. We did everything from plays to cultural dances. I was always one of those on stage never to be missed. It was sheer pleasure to watch the reaction of the crowd watching your every step.

Fast forward to the millennium the bug is still biting.  One must not think of personal financial gains when stepping into music. I for one love the arts, I find it very fulfilling to be able to create with my mind and heart and to say what I feel in the form of lyrics. Anything to do with the mind and soul, creative use of the hands as well has always been a major attraction for me. That to me is priceless.

What inspires your style of music?

Wow! Where do I begin. It might not  necessarily be my style of music per se but more in the sense of my inspiration in music overall. Cesaria Evora, Grace Jones, George  Michael and of course our very own Fela Kuti have all been a great tool for me in music. The sense of truth in their songs is unwavering. I typically immerse myself in their work whenever I feel the need to be drawn away from the stress of this world. They take me to another hemisphere, a trance without boundaries.

These feeling is what then makes me come back to earth and write and make my own music in ways that I feel at that time. If someone is stressing me out I might write about it like my new song ‘Not The Devil’. If I am in the mood to feel stupid and overjoyed about my addiction to shoes I write about it, case in point like ‘Shoeholic’ song on my album which has been getting my email box full from fans who love it and want to tell me about it. We hope to have a  video for that song by September. The request for it is like I have never seen before. I had no idea there are many others suffering who share my addiction for shoes. It’s hilarious.

Do you write your songs?

Yes, 100%. That is the number one thing any musician or artist should learn. That is really where the money is in terms of royalties. If your song is used for example in a movie soundtrack, the singer gets nothing only the publisher and writer of  the song gets something. That is the way it works and will be like this until congress changes the law to include 5% cut to the singer. I have been following the story in the library of congress office.

Tell us about your background?

This is usually hard for me to say. I have never been good at stating my own bio most of which you can see  on http://www.tinuonline.com in the ‘About’ section. But I can say i am 100% Nigerian, despite being born in New York.  I attended high school in Nigeria, University in New York. You know the Nigerian norms in the US. They attend universities in the States but once kids start to arrive they begin the process of moving to Nigeria for the fear of having kids without discipline unlike in the States where you are not  allowed to really discipline your kids without the nosy neighbors calling the cops. So voila! that was my case too. Before you know it I was in Nigeria long before I could say ‘Boys’, the move which I still thank my parents for till today now that I am all grown up and see the ways of life in the States.

How was growing up like?

It was superb! I had everything I had ever  wanted. Absolutely no complaints. My parents more than provided for me, I was privileged and I am very grateful for that especially now as  a grown up you see how life can be tasking as an adult. It makes you appreciate the things you took for granted as a kid. Now I pay my own bills, run my company, go crazy when things fall apart, enjoy the  fruit of my labor when all goes well; the daily stress of an adult life.

Were your parent in support of your ambitions?

Unfortunately my father did not support my move back to the States since my birth in New York. His goal at that time was to have all his kids finish university in the likes of University of Ife, University of Ibadan and then go to the States for Masters, Ph.D and so forth. Alas! that was not my goal at all. I had a different agenda, I was yearning to break away from the umbilical cord and pave my own way. My mother however is a girl’s girl, never one to judge but to support.

My first job in the States was as a fashion model, something I didn’t invite into my life but was thrust upon me by a model scout in New York City. I was lucky not to have started with odd jobs like you see many teenage kids of my age do back  then. I had a world of glamour, traveling to places and getting paid for it. But still it was never for me. I much preferred a job of the creative world, the mind. It wasn’t long that I had a stint as an investment banker at one of the leading companies in New York. I made my money and started my own company that serves as an umbrella for all the things that I hold dear to my heart including designing (something I had always dabbled in since I was five years old).

And now it’s a full fledged company. I make my own rules and seldom listen to judgements or critics that’s not in my best interest. If there is one thing I learned in high school (an all girls school of privileged kids who are notorious for making life miserable for people sometimes) and modeling world, it is having a tough skin and resisting peer pressure at the highest level. I happened to have a personal motto: ‘Life is Beautiful, Live it!’. That is life is too short to be making amends to wasteful comments.

Would you say stardom has changed your life?

I know a lot of people think I ride limos to work or wear designers everyday. LOL! That is if at all you plan your life around ‘being a star’. I never saw myself as one, that was at all and most of my friends would agree. If you happen to run into me in New York you might wonder if it’s the same girl you read about or saw recently in a publication. I don’t wear it on my forehead! I might just look like a bag lady one given day and a total fashion maiden the next day.

So what is ‘Stardom’ really?

For me there is no such thing in my book. I see Oscar winners in my neighborhood all the time and I don’t bat an eyelash when they walk by. The way I see it is, it’s just a job, another way to pay bills just like a doctor who checks on you from time to time. Why then should I feel any special just because I did some advertisement in a magazine spread or sing?

Stardom changing your life?

Yes it pays the bills, that’s how I see it. But I happen to be a very private person, a surprise to a lot of  people. I personally would prefer to be very comfortable financially and not be famous or have stardom than to be all over the place and can barely afford my rent or mortgage. I know a lot of people who are that way. Stardom sometimes doesn’t really pay the bills but actual work does. Funny how that is right? wow what a world we live in. We can’t have it and eat it too.

How do you cope with being a model, designer and artist?

The modeling part isn’t my first love and has never been. When I was heavily into modeling it was more like a hobby for me. I never saw it as a means to an end. I still cringe when my friends say ‘Tinu is or used to be a model’. I correct them immediately to say designer or singer. I know a lot of people who don’t respect model or anything with the industry as a whole. Strange huh? That is the world we live in. My first love are things of the mind and soul and of creative nature with the hands. As a model, standing there and looking pretty, being told to turn left or right and smile isn’t one to make my day.

So be that as it may, creative work such as designing and singing gives me a rush that is hard to describe. It completes me. It isn’t hard to do those things together at all most of the time when I am designing I am singing a tune of a classic song I grew up listening to or making music of my own and writing them down as I go along. So they work very well  together. You can see some of my designs on http://www.tinuola.com in the ‘Designer’ tab section. This is one of my true passion. It’s addictive!

Ain’t you scared of competition?

What?! what creative mind in their right sense should be scared? That is what drives the flow of life. Can you imagine a situation like the ‘I am legend’ Will Smith movie where you are the only one left on the face of the planet? That will make me feel deflated, no reason to get up everyday to do what I love. We need competition to make our creative juices flow faster and in overdrive. But then again there is so much room to grow and do new things in the world we live in today. There is so much room for all of us and any new ideas out there. All are welcomed. It’s a free world.

Your debut album got you into the spotlight, do you think your new  album would give you more prominence in Nigeria?

My new album, I did from the heart, something I wanted to do as supposed to something people think I should do. I have never been the type to be pigeonholed. I allowed that in my first album. ‘Oh she is a black singer, let’s do R&B’ kind of situation. Not this time! I have always loved  the pop-rock, alternative genre. That is freedom to do whatever you want and in any style, no boundaries or rules. And that was what I did, my way, my style. A good mix for everyone especially now that we are in the download era. You get to download the genre style of song that suits you and no longer stuck with buying the whole album if it’s not your thing.

Prominence in Nigeria?

I hope my style of song is to their liking as I am not ‘world music’ genre with this album. If most are open to new ideas such as pop-rock songs, or alternative then I think they will like the collection of songs. When I wrote the songs I wasn’t thinking of any one particular country. That is the beauty of  music, it is a universal language. I target the world not one section of it. There is something for everyone in the new album, especially ‘Wild Things’ which is the official first single that has a Yoruba bridge in the song and we also had performers in native for the very section in the music video. I hope they like it. It will be available for sale on Amazon, iTunes and of course from the label directly. All the links to the stores will be on http://www.tinuonline.com by mid July, 2009 Or you can also search by using my name on the aforementioned online stores and voila it comes up!

Role model?

My mom is my number one role model. The fact that she lends her ears to me whenever I have something to say and gives me  advice back without any judgement or scolding makes her my number one. In music, Grace Jones is high up there. Her freedom to be creative on and off stage is insatiable. Never a dull moment with her.

How do you intend to combat piracy?

If you are referring to those in Nigeria, well nothing. It happened with my first album which is why I won’t be doing any direct promotion there. Over there you work for the pirating company. Each money you shell out helps market the $1 CD copies hanging about the street corner. That is not for me. If someone in Nigeria wants my music I think it’s best to visit iTunes and Amazon for the very affordable, legit, good sound quality and quick download.

3 things you can’t do without?

My big bag of garri in my kitchen (and at least a bowl of it with me when I travel). Yes the addiction stuck since high school and it’s been hard to shake off. I like it plain with absolutely nothing in it but cold water. Besides it’s an excellent roughage not known to a lot of Nigerians! I love it.

Other things are my lip gloss (which I wear in place of lipstick. I am uncomfortable wearing them) and finally my old beat up cell phone. Yes I get raised eyebrows when my friends see me on it. I have tried all the fancier ones with emails cum all the bells and whistles. I always seem to come back to my classic. It has been dropped many times in water/floor, scratched and old and most of all the battery life is more than 48 hours! They don’t make them like that anymore. Now they use cheaper materials so you can come back and buy a new one. This is how they make money off you.

As for me I am not trying to impress anyone, I am 200% satisfied with my old beat up cell phone. I know it goes against the norm in Nigeria from what I hear. I heard having the coolest and latest cell gadget is the in thing. I have closet full of couture and every handbag you can think of. I don’t need to tell people I can afford life and ‘am cool’ by using the latest gadget too but I beg to differ. Remember I don’t react to peer pressure.

Any embarrassing moments?

I completely tear up after yarning. Am I ok? LOL!!!

Any plans to hit the screen soon for a movie role?

I did a few indie movies here in New York and some Television shows such as Law & Order where I played a waitress in a scene with funny man, Anthony Anderson. He was funny and cracking us up between takes. Other than that it hasn’t really been my focus. Don’t know if ‘Hollywood’ is my thing….yet.

A word for your fans?

Enjoy life, live it to the fullest, don’t hold back and let no one judge you. Always remember that YOU pay your own bills and NOT the critics or haters. Life is too short for such nonsense. Do you what you want, when you want and how you want them. Peace and love to yourself, your family and your REAL friends.

Nominated for 2 awards at the upcoming 2009 HipHop World Awards, Kel has definitely shown the stuff she’s made up of. With her performance in songs like ‘Wa Wa Alright’ ,’Beautiful Life’ and ‘U Go Wound O’, her nomination didn’t come as a surprise. Kel debut album should drop this month and its gonna be the BOMB!!

Kel tells us how she got into rap and what she’s up too. Its an interestin interview…a must read…

Can we meet you?

My name is Kel Ohia. I am a female rapper and hiphop is what I do.

Educational Background?

Currently doing my University degree in Lagos State University.

How did you found yourself rapping?

It was through a friend of mine who used to play rap music back in those days around me then because I never used to like rap, it kind of grew on me but I fell in love with rap when I started listening to Eminem.

Will it be right to say then that Eminem was your most admired rap artiste?

Yes.

Who are the artiste (foreign/naija) you listen to as a rapper?

I listen to Eminem, Lupe Fiasco, Jay Z, and M.I etc.

Have you ever been compared to any major foreign rapper?

Initially when I came out people said I sounded like Eve.

But now, what do you think?

I think I have developed my own style.

Your stage performance is always full of energy, have you ever flopped with your lines on stage before?

Yes, when performing on stage there is so much noise and i just kind of murmur along the forgotten lines until I can pick the lines back.

When was the last time you flopped with your lines on stage?

I think it was during the Guinness show.

Now let talk about the Naija female rap world, folks out there has these strong feelings that the real rap game is between you, Kemistry and Blaise. What do you think?

I think we all have our different styles, rhythm and image. I do not think there is any need for any comparison between us all.

So what inspires your kind of rap?

When I rap, I am basically having fun. I rap from what I see around me. I do not come across as some hardcore rapper, but I can definitely hold my own.

What drives/gives you inspiration when making your styles of music?

Most times I listen to the beat and its whatever the beat tells me. Sometimes I could just be at home and some lyrics comes I just write it out. Most times is the beat that brings the lyrics.

Does it mean that you freestyle?

I do not freestyle.

Will you still be around the rap world in the next 5-10 years from now?

I hope so.

What other activities do you engage in aside from music?

My life revolves around the music world. Music is everything to me.

Which producers are you working with or have worked with in the past?

Dr.Frabz, Tee-y Mix, also worked with Freestyle in the past.

You recently shot two videos from your forthcoming album ‘The Investment’, what were they like?

The first video is titled ‘Beautiful Life’ while the second video titled ‘Too Fine’ featured Alaye.

When should we be expecting the full album?

Before the end of May.

Any last word for naija youths?

Do what you got to do and believe in your self. Hardwork and perseverance pays.

If you have ever tuned your radio to Cool FM station at about 9pm – 2am (Mondays – Fridays) then you would have heard the soulful voice of the night nurse ‘Vickie Alozie’. Vickie has gained a huge following on her programme ‘The Love Zone’ and its no doubt she is one of the best on-air personality on radio.

As usual, Vickie Alozie was her entertaining self during the interview and we were glad to have her talk about ‘HER’

Let meet you?

My name is Vicky Alozie.

What was growing up like?

It was very interesting. I am an only child and one of those kids that was unnecessarily spoilt. Did everything, went everywhere, got everything I ever wanted……. Yeah I know really spoilt but somehow managed to not let it get to my head. I got my fair share I guess, did everything a child should do and should not do too. And yes I was very naughty, basically a handful.

Any fun/embarrassing moments?

I have had a lot of fun, exciting and interesting moments. I have also had my fair share of embarrassing moments too but more fun (mischievous) than embarrassing though. I know you would want to hear them all but I don’t want too and moreover they are just too numerous to mention.

Whats your educational background?

Had my University education in Obafemi Awolowo University, read Political Science. I did other stuffs in and outside the country.

What is your daily routine often like?

Sometimes, my day could be really hectic and sometimes just laid back. I do a lot of things aside from radio that I do not want to mention. Occasionally, I could just decide I am not going anywhere or doing anything and just sit at home to watch television (series or movies). Just having a little fun by myself, love my alone time and my together time, if you get what I mean…… hehehehehehe but I really can’t forget radio, my first love.

Now let talk about your radio programme, “The Love Zone”. It is a cool and emotional-laden night programme, what makes it tick?

Honestly, I have no idea but if I had to say, I would say it’s my callers. They are all so different!!! Some sweet, some sexy, some naughty, some so in love, some so not in love, some so angry, some so disappointed, shy, happy, giddy, sad, hopeful, optimistic, hopeless…… I could go on and on and on. With voices that tell a story without telling the story that I and everybody else listening connects to. It’s so beautiful!!! In a city like Lagos that is so fast paced right from the get go, as early as 5am, it’s no wonder that by sundown you just want to unwind or shut down with some humour or music or just good old sweet love. Where do you get it all? I’ll leave the answer to you.

And how do you handle your male listeners?

My male listeners are just great. Some sweeter than some but all in all pretty nice guys. Handling??? Well we talk over the phone!!! They say the sweetest things about their sweethearts or crushes.They remind me that there are really some good ones out there. Back to handling, errmmmmm well, what I would like to know is how they handle me because I handle them pretty well………….. I guess.

Have you being compared with any radio personality?

Well not yet. There are really great personalities out there (of which I secretly listen too) but no two can be the same, even if you want to be like someone else, there is so much of that you can pull off and not for too long, your true self always shines through. People that I have known for a while and those that have just met me think I’m the same on or off air and that I can relate to. I think it easier being myself all the time so I don’t get confused. When I get on the radio I just do me, I have no idea who that is but it’s me.

Is their any radio personality that you admire most or rather want to be like?

To be honest even if wanted to be someone else, I can’t. My personality is way too strong, I would fail badly at being like someone else, I could try but fail at it. I just do my thing. I do admire other people on what they do and how they do it on the air, infact I love it and I listen to them religiously but even if I wanted to be like them i just can’t. You want names??? Let’s leave that for another time, just know that they are brilliant.

How did you find yourself on Radio (Cool Fm)?

It started while I was still in school(OAU). I called in on a show on Cool FM to answer a question and won back in 1998 when they just opened up. I got a call back to come pick up my prize and that they liked my voice. I came in and joined in the show with Yakubu Lamia and learnt a few things and I was hooked for life. It was the best day of my life, being on air with him that first night, Ibrahim Abubarkar and Keith Lane came in too to give me a radio tour as well. I did it for a while, it was so great and I knew I wanted to do radio so much once I got out of school. After my university education i had a brief stint in banking and teaching before retracing my steps back to radio broadcasting and Cool FM and the rest is history.

What do you think about Nigerian Music?

Well from a musical stand point, we are getting there. We’ve got some really brilliant musicians and some………. I dunno. I just wish some musicians would try their best and listen to themselves for starters before they make us listen to them on an album or get a sincere critic or something. What would they or we love to hear or what sort of voice would they love to listen to on their radio or ipod or whatever. Music is such a beautiful thing that brings the world together with it’s lyrics, message, rhythm and the voice singing it and so on. You know if you can’t sing, it’s not the end of the world. It’s a rare gift given to some and to others an ear to listen.

Basically do you have plans of coming on the screens (Television)?

No. I think I like the idea of people walking past me and not knowing it’s me that harasses them on the radio at night. I’ve being in several situations where people have talked about me on a queue or the best part on a date. It’s hilarious!!!! A guy I was on a date with went on and on about some Vickie on the radio that really I ought to listen to her on her show. It was hard to keep a straight face but I to for one more week until he dropped me off at work one night and all hell broke loose…….. hehehehehehehehe. I guess I love my privacy a lot and a chance to do that again.

How do you picture yourself in the next 5-10 years?

In the next few years, I will still be on radio.

What is your approach to life?

Taking life easy no matter how bad it gets because it always will get worse. Be true to yourself, no matter what and always try to tell the truth always. Hard as it may be to tell the truth as we all know but trust me it’s better in the end. This I know for a fact.

Any plans to contribute to the society in your own little way, either now or in the future?

In the now or the future, I would really love to work with kids and youths by coming up with some sort of ‘SANCTUARY’ that creates a medium for education and self awareness. I would love to address issues surrounding sex education, virgin stigmatization, peer pressure etc. A safe haven where the young and old can come together and learn, help and and also have fun.

What your best hangout in Lagos?

Oniru Private Beach

What do you think about “www. allejo.com”?

Allejo is cool and they are doing something new that is both educative and entertaining.

With his latest video ‘Nakiyeh’ hitting the airwaves with a sparkle, Amoni Rayce Kingley is an artist that is worthy of note.

Born November 1983, Rayce is a Singer, Songwriter and Producer signed under Big Don Records. He is currently working on his debut album which he says would showcase his unique talents and sensibility.

Rayce production outfit; Admire Beat has created career hits for artistes such as Morachi (No Dull Me) and others.

In this interview, Allejo brings you up, close and personal with Rayce.

Can you tell us more about yourself?

I am Rayce Amoni Kingsley, from Edo State, Owan Local Government Omora.I am from a family of 2 and the first child of my parents. I attended Federal Government College Ikorodu while i went to Solid Foundation Nursery/Primary School. I am currently undergoing some Sound Engineering courses.

How did you get into music?

I have been involved with music right from my secondary school days. I recollect i used to perform any time we have social nights in school. I guess it started off just like that and it has made me who i am today. I found out i had so much love for music and i just had to realize my ambitions to be a successful artist.

When you are not busy singing or producing, what do you do?

Hmm… I unwind by studying music online.

How do you cope with being a producer and an artist?

Sincerely it makes me feel wonderful to be able to juggle between the two without buckling over. It has not been so easy though believe me man but i don’t have any choice than to face the challenges that comes my way and try to do the best i can.

What would you call your style of music?

R&B Music, Hip- Hop and Afro Hip-Hop

Can you tell us how many artistes you have produced so far?

I have produced quite a lot of artists like Neo, Sean Tero, Morachi, Isolate, Stid Man, Ayo, Jay Ru and so many others.

Do you have any favourite artist you want to work with as regards production?

Yes! I’d love to have something with 2face Idibia, Dbanj, M.I and 9ice.

Which artist do you respect his/her style the most?

Well i am a fan of DBanj; I like his swaggas.

Are you single?

Yes i am still very much single.

What record label are you signed onto?

I am an artist under Big Don Records.

We have heard of Admire Beat and Big Don Records, Whats the difference?

Admire Beat is my music production company while Big Don Records is a  record label I am signed on.

Which of your video is currently on air on National TV?

That would be ‘Nakiyeh’ and its enjoying quite a huge airplay across major TV stations.

Do you write your own songs?

Yes i do. I also produce my songs.

Who are the directors you work with on your videos?

Fizzle & Bizzle.

Do you think going into music in Nigeria is a viable business?

Sure, Certainly. Make you dey Dull.

What should we expect on your upcoming album?

I definitely got a whole lot to offer! The anticipation is high and my album is something you should watch out for.

Any Nigerian artist you would like to do a collabo with?

I would love to do a collabo with 2face, Dbanj, eLDee and 9ice.

Foreign artist?

Akon’s great while Lil Wayne is someone i have always admired.

Describe your personality?

Doesn’t matter at all. Gongo ti so.

What is your most priced possession?

My skills.

Gadgets you can’t live without?

My Sony PSP and Apple iPod.

What are your plans for 2009?

I intend to make Rayce a household name which would be recognized both at the local and international levels.

Last words?

Would like to thank my numerous fans who do appreciate the work i do. Without them, there would be no Rayce. My album is a work in progress and i am sure you would like it. Thanks.