NIGERIAN ACTOR, CONPHIDANCE, LANDS RECURRING ROLE ON ‘COMPLICATIONS,’ A USA NETWORK TV SERIES

Conphidance, a multi-talented entertainer of Nigerian Descent, will soon be seen as the recurring character, CJ, on “Complications,” USA Network’s new television series from Matt Nix, the creator and executive producer of “Burn Notice.”  The show stars Jason O’Mara (“Vegas”) as Dr. John Ellison, Jessica Szohr (“Gossip Girl”) as Gretchen, a reckless but capable nurse, Beth Riesgraf (“Leverage”) as John’s wife, Samantha, and Lauren Stamile (“Burn Notice”) as John’s by-the-book coworker, Dr. Bridget O’Neill.

He graduated with a degree in Biological Engineering, receiving minors in Biomechanics and African Studies, with a specialization in Visual and Performing Arts. He wasn’t able to convince his parents about his love for the performing arts so he snuck into a few acting classes, and wrote plays and comedy sketches to hone his craft. After relocating to Atlanta, he began independent study, attending classes and workshops, including performing live comedy sketches and stand-up comedy to further his growth.

Since relocating to Atlanta in 2009, he has led and co-starred many independent films in the southeast, as well as in the thriving Nollywood industry starring in films next to Michael Blackson and Van Vicker. He is also known as the creator and writer of the African sketch comedy series, Day Buy Day with Onye-Ala.

 Additionally, he has landed television roles on The CW’s “The Originals” and USA Network’s “Satisfaction” which have been renewed for a second season.  Additionally, he has worked as a musician in films and TV shows, including NBC’s “Constantine.”

“Complications” centers on a disillusioned suburban doctor who, while still dealing with the emotional effects of his daughter’s death, unexpectedly becomes a vigilante hero when he intervenes in a drive-by shooting, saving a young boy’s life. When John learns the boy is still marked for death, he’s compelled to save him at any cost. Through this journey, he must compromise his morals, often doing the wrong thing for all the right reasons. Conphidance plays the role of CJ, the young boy’s close relative.

In addition to working on major film and television productions, he also writes, directs, and produces comedy sketches and short films. Around Atlanta and in neighboring states, you can find him in front of small and large audiences, hosting events, making people laugh, and keeping the show flowing smoothly.

“Through the arts, I strive to inspire the world towards positivity by building self-confidence one person at a time” says Conphidance. You can see the phenomenal work of Conphidance as CJ in “Complications” which premieres on Thursday, June 18 at 9/8c. To keep up and stay connected with Conphidance, visit his website at www.conphidance.com.

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JULIET IBRAHIM REVEALS HER MOST LOVED POSSESSION

Lagos|Nigeria: Ghanaian actress, Juliet Ibrahim says her most loved possession is her lipstick.  

She revealed this while on #PriceCheckRadioShow hosted by comedienne, Chigul. According to her, she feels incomplete without a touch of lipstick to her make up, “I’m a make up person and I can’t do without my make up especially my lipstick” she says.

The show also features George Wright, winner of the ‘Find And Win’ competition organized to mark her birthday. The competition had participants log on to Price Check website to choose the most suitable gift for the actress.

The radio show, which began a few weeks ago, is designed to help listeners across Nigeria make amazing purchase decisions while still entertaining them with jokes from the three hosts, Chigul, Andre Blaze and Patrick Onyeke.

The 29-year-old Juliet Ibrahim began her acting career in 2005 and has since starred in over 50 movies, in the process amassing several awards including Best Actress at 2014 Ghana Movie Awards.

#PriceCheckRadioShow airs on Radio one 103.5 FM, Brila FM 88.9, and Metro FM 97.7and has previously hosted Skales, Samklef, popular rapper, Falz, and Dotun of Cool FM.

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‘WIZKID IS HARD TO HANDLE’ BASKETMOUTH REVEALS ON MTV BASE A DAY IN THE LIFE OF.

LAGOS | NIGERIA: Fans of popular Nigerian comedian, Basketmouth are in for a swell time as Africa’s biggest music channel, MTV Base brings an exclusive scoop into the comedian’s life on this edition of the documentary, A Day in the Life Of.

While sharing interesting facts about his life with the MTV Base crew, the comedian also commented on his working relationship with Wizkid, which he jokingly described as “stressful”.

Amongst other things, the documentary features the lucky couple that won ‘From Base With Love’ competition as well as interesting facts about the comedian’s life.

You can catch Basketmouth's 'A Day in the Life Of' on Saturday March 21 and Sunday March 22, 2015 at 1:30PM and 11:30AM respectively on MTV Base Channel 322. 

Watch teasers from Basketmouth hangout here

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ONE ON ONE WITH SKALES, LOOKING BACK AT EME, 'MAN OF THE YEAR' ALBUM AND MORE

One on One with Moet is back and Skales was her guest for the first episode. Skales sat with the Soundcity VJ to discuss his time at EME, his upcoming album and criticism.

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ANGELIQUE KIDJO WINS HER SECOND GRAMMY

The new year has been off to a great start for world-renowned singer, songwriter and activist, Angelique Kidjo. Ms. Kidjo who first won a Grammy back in 2008 for her eighth studio album ‘Djin Djin’ which included a star-studded list of guest artists ranging from Branford Marsalis, Ziggy Marley, Alicia Keys, Carlos Santana to Peter Gabriel, won the 2015 Crystal Award in a ceremony opening the 45th annual meeting of the World Economic Forumin Davos, Switzerland on January 21st.

Along with two other exceptional artists, Japanese architect Shigeru Ban and Italian opera singer Andrea Bocelli, Ms. Kidjo who was named a UNICEF Goodwill Ambassador in 2002, received the Crystal Awards for “not only being world famous artists but also concerned with humanitarian issues and committed to using their time and energy to make a difference,” said Hilde Schwab, Chairperson and Co-Founder, Schwab Foundation for Entrepreneurship. “I want to dedicate this crystal award to the women of my continent. They are the backbone of Africa. I cannot be who I am without them. To all the women of the world, what you do is priceless; it is not a matter of color, of language, of nationality,” said Ms. Kidjo receiving the 2015 Crystal Award.

Continuing with her winning streak, last night at the 57th annual Grammy Awards held at the Staples Center in Los Angeles, California, the revered musician who was born in Cotonou, Benin, won her second Grammy for her 2014 album ‘EVE’ in the ‘World Music’ category that included Brazilian bossa nova legend Sergio Mendes and sitar player and composer, Anoushka Shankar. Receiving her Grammy award during a pre-telecast ceremony, Ms. Kidjo the first woman to be listed on FORBES’ 40 Most Powerful Celebrities In Africa, said, “this album is dedicated to the women of Africa, to their beauty and resilience. Women of Africa, you rock! For me, music is a weapon of peace and today more than ever, as artists we have a role to play in the stability of this world.”




Source: Forbes

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BE INSPIRED! HOUSE OF TARA CEO, TARA FELA DUROTOYE FEATURES ON CNN AFRICAN VOICES

Tara Fela-Durotoye, Chief Executive Officer of Africa's leading beauty brand, House of Tara - who is iconic for setting up the first make up studio and establishing Nigeria's first make up school in 2004 - spoke to CNN's African Voices, a weekly show that highlights Africa's most engaging personalities, exploring the lives and passions of people who are shaping change in Africa.

Since hosting the first ever gathering of makeup professionals in Nigeria, Makeup In Nigeria Conference (MINC) in 2014, Tara has made several appearances on premium global platforms including the New York Forum Africa (NYFA), France24 and Africa 24 by Reuters.In this interview, Tara shares deep secrets behind her passion, building a business from scratch in Africa and how she has used as a tool for empowering young women to build businesses whilst adding value to the country.“My story became one of inspiration to others of the possibilities that exist in our country, don't just get a job, do something that is tied to a purpose. It should be all about purpose," said Tara Fela-Durotoye. “I started a mentorship program to mentor young girls because to make impact, I need to share my story with the next generation and I always tell my mentees that it’s their responsibility as women to develop other women.

Speaking on the brand's achievements, she said; “Today we have about 14 make-up schools across the country where people have been trained to become make-up artists. I can confidently say that for 80 % of the make-up artists that are active players in the industry today, either working as entrepreneurs or working within other beauty brands, are trained by House of Tara. And I think for me that is the greatest joy.”The feature included appearances from some of her mentees: Gbemisola Adebayo of @hegaiandesther, Arese Ugwu of @smartmoneywitharese, Iroghama Ogbeifun of @hairvenhaircare, Peculiar Beauty, and other brilliant entrepreneurs.

The brand, House of Tara currently has 20 studios in 11 states, with plans to build more studios across Nigeria in the Niger Delta and northern regions. It also has plans to extend across Africa into, Kenya, Ghana and South Africa by the end of 2015.Watch repeat broadcasts on DSTV channel 401 on the following days:

Sunday: 4:30am, 12:30pm, 7:30pm
Monday: 3:30am, 11:30am, 6:30pm
Tuesday: 5:30am
Wednesday: 10:30am

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CONTAGIOUS PASSION ON 'GAME ON' AS THE FIRST CONTESTANT IS EVICTED FROM THE SHOW

The game is truly on as the first episode of the much anticipated reality show by Malta Guinness hit the screens. The reality show aptly title Malta Guinness Game On showcases two passions that have been at loggerheads over the last few months championed by fashion Icon Lanre Da Silva Ajayi and former Nigerian football star, Daniel Amokachi.  What started off as a comment during an interview has exploded into a vivacious battle fueled by passion.

Episode one of Game On saw the contestants tackling their first task which was to convince people in the popular Balogun Market in Lagos that their passion is the one that will best fuel the rise of Naija. Both teams led by their team captains attacked the challenge with gusto and finally the winner was decided by a vote from onlookers who had been held entranced by the activities of the team members.Team Football came out victorious with overwhelming votes from the entranced audience. They went on to celebrate at the GET arena in Lekki Lagos courtesy of Malta Guinness while Team Fashion lost out on this first round.

As a result of their loss, Team Fashion had to vote off Modupe who they considered their weakest link on this challenge.Team Captain for fashion, Lanre Da Silva Ajayi however remained upbeat. “This is just a little set back, a challenge we will overcome. The game is just starting I remain confident that Team Fashion will win at the end of the day’ she said.

The next episode promises to be exciting as Team Fashion promises to put up a strong fight. The show airs weekly on Sunday on AIT and Spice TV 5-6pm. NTA 4.30 -5.30pm. Watch also repeat broadcasts on ONTV, Thursday 6.30 – 7.30 pm and on Sound City on Saturdays 7-8pm. Which team will win the next episode? Team Fashion or Team Football?  Have your say and vote for your passion. Click here! https://www.facebook.com/MaltaGuinness. Also, you can text GoFashion or GoFootball to 20055 to win exciting prizes.  The Malta Guinness Game On reality show continues next Sunday. Which passion will best fuel the rise of Naija? Get behind your passion and follow the conversation on Facebook/MaltaGuinness and Twitter: @MaltaGuinnessNG.



About Guinness Nigeria and Diageo

Guinness Nigeria Plc was established in 1962, making it one of the oldest companies in Nigeria. Listed on the Nigerian Stock Exchange in 1965, and with a shareholder base of over 75,000 shareholders, it is also one of the foremost quoted companies in Nigeria. The company built its first brewery in Ikeja in 1962, and currently has facilities in Ogba, Benin City and Aba.

Included in its portfolio are such acclaimed brands - Guinness Foreign Extra Stout, Guinness Extra Smooth, Malta Guinness, Harp Lager beer, Gordon’s Spark, Smirnoff Ice, Satzenbrau Pilsner, Harp Lime and most recently Dubic Extra Lager.Guinness Nigeria Plc is a member company of Diageo Plc; the world’s leading premium drinks business with an outstanding collection of brands such as Johnnie Walker, Smirnoff, J&B, Baileys, Cuervo, Tanquery and Captain Morgan etc. For our global resource, that promotes responsible drinking through the sharing of best practice tools, information and initiatives, visit www.DRINKiQ.com.

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THE GROOVE IS BACK!

Word on the street is…there’s going to be another Gulder Club Ultimate here in Lagos!

The star-studded ‘Ultimate clubbing experience’, is another one of Gulder’s thrilling innovations, and with features like magical displays, aerial dancers and DJ battles, it’s usually a scene of wonder.

Since its debut in 2013, the event has been attended by celebs like Phyno, Ebuka Obi-Uchendu, Frank Edoho, DJ Jimmy Jatt, Lamide Akintobi, Tee A, Burna Boy, Denrele Edun, Kunle Afolayan and a host of others.

In fact, it was at the Lagos edition of Gulder Club Ultimate that award-winning actress Genevieve Nnaji was seen on the arms of the Koko Master D’banj, sparking all those relationship reports.

So what can we expect this time around?? We actually don’t know, it’s all still a big secret. But rumor has it that the King of RnB, Darey ‘Art’ Alade is billed to grace the stage.

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YEMI ALADE MENTORS CONTESTANTS & PERFORMS "JOHNNY" ON NIGERIAN IDOL

Vocal powerhouse Yemi Alade visited the current season of Nigerian Idol where she mentored the contestants and gave electrifying performance of her smash hit single "Johnny" on the Top 10 Live Show while her new single "Tangerine" produced by and featuring Triple MG's Selebobo is gaining airplay cross the continent.

Watch Yemi Alade in action as she serves a killer performance of fan favourite "Johnny"on the Nigerian Idol stage.

WATCH 'YEMI ALADE PERFORMS "JOHNNY" ON NIGERIAN IDOL TOP 10 LIVE SHOW'

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"MY WIFE IS THE BOSS" I NAETO C SPILLS ALL 'THE JUICE' WITH TOOLZ

Naeto C is the celebrity on the fourth episode of 'The Juice' Season 2. He talks to Toolz about marriage, his Msc in Energy Economics, moving on in his career and balancing his personal life with the spotlight.
The show also made him play several games. Find out if he wins!

Watch the video!

Catch Season 2 of ‘The Juice’ airing every Sunday on Africa Magic Entertainment, DSTV Channel 151 at 8pm. Episodes can be watched on youtube and ndani.tv from 9pm every Sunday

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CONTROVERSY IN THE NIGERIAN IDOL CAMP

Finally the judges and Nigerians share one view on selected contestants for the Top 12 on Africa’s No 1 music talent show, Nigerian Idol.

After weeks of several performances and numerous worry-some eliminations, the judging trio of Darey Art-Alade, Dede Mabiaku and Nneka Egbuna finally agreed with the nationwide selection of Beebee Bassey, Nyro Love and Obed.

“I am happy about this selection, it seems Nigerians and judges are finally getting on the same page,” said a pleased Nneka. “ Two of the contestants in this group were selected based on their voices and the last based on her performance and I am pleased with that,” added Dede.

Beebee Bassey, Nyro Love and Obed will be joining Lisa, Elvis Jay, Jesse Raey, Ms. Oge, Nex2 and Xolani in the Top 12.

Catch all the excitement on Nigerian Idol on Saturday’s and Sunday’s on NTA, HIP TV, STV, CRBC Calabar, DRTV Warri and Various Startimes Channels.

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BREAKING NEWS: USHER RAYMOND’S TWIN BROTHER DISCOVERED IN NIGERIA

There is nothing as shocking as a striking resemblance of an international act and performer like Usher Raymond.

But when Antwon auditioned for Nigerian Idol season 4, he caught the attention of the judges, crew members and the audience with his charming resemblance with the Grammy award winning musician, Usher Raymond.

In addition to Antwon’s great looks, he also has a great voice and awesome dance moves to complement it. With his last performance of ‘Breakeven’ by The Script, Antwon wowed the judges with his enjoyable and simple performance as described by Darey and Nneka.

DAREY ART-ALADE SHOWS OFF SOME EXTRA SKILLS ON NIGERIAN IDOL

The last episode showcasing the last group of Top 30 contestants on Africa’s No 1 music talent show, Nigerian Idol that aired on Sunday, April 7, 2014 saw Multi-talented entertainer and King of R&B, Darey Art-Alade showcase his Etighi dance moves.

Tobore, a contestant from Calabar, performed Taio Cruz’s very energetic song ‘Dynamite.’  In addition to his vocal prowess, Tobore added a few Nigerian dance steps all in the bid to entertain the judges and audience.

After showcasing a few seconds of his Etighi moves, Darey commented saying, “That wasn’t a good start, but you picked up later. It was a good performance.”

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CALLING ALL FASHION & LIFESTYLE LOVERS… FAYROUZ SEARCHES FOR BEST STYLE TEAM WITH L’ORIGINAL EXPRESSION SHOW!

… Mai Atafo, Kunbi Oyelese, Omoyemi Akerele, Orange Culture, Others Announced As Judges.

Following the launch of the Fayrouz L’Original platform in December 2013 with the ‘Party for the Originals’; Nigeria’s premium soft drink, Fayrouz has announced the search for the best fashion & lifestyle team in Nigeria.

The Fayrouz L’Original Expression show has been put together to discover and promote young and talented fashion-forward undergraduates in universities across Nigeria. The competition, which will see teams of four young creative including a Fashion Designer, Make-Up Artiste, Photographer and a Model, come together to create original ensembles. These teams will battle for the prize money of $20,000 and fashion opportunities of a lifetime.

The competition, which kicks off registration on Wednesday, April 2nd, will feature various prominent individuals who have over the years carved a niche for themselves in the fashion, beauty and lifestyle industry. Fayrouz has selected these fashion authorities as judges and mentors during the competition, they include celebrity designer and stylists, Mai Atafo of Mai Atafo Inspired, Kunbi Oyelese of April By Kunbi, Omoyemi Akerele of Style House, Warebi Martha of Catwalk Productions and Nobel Afrik.

Online judges who will also select the final 10 contending teams throughout the competition include the Orange Culture, Gozel Green, Kate Williams among others.

During the competition, registered teams will participate in tasks that will be given every week to move to every phase of the competition. A regional show for the final 10 teams will also hold in Enugu before a grand finale to select the L’Original team, which will hold in Lagos in July.

Interested participants can register on the Fayrouz L’Original official website (www.fayrouzloriginal.com/competition), register all team members and create a portfolio for your team and complete the task given. Contenders must be a student in a university or a corps member to be a part of the competition.

Since inception, Fayrouz has differentiated itself as Nigeria’s only natural premium soft drink within a market of various products filled with chemical ingredients such as artificial additives, preservatives and sugar substitutes. Fayrouz has proven its originality with this unique formulation and stands out as a unique brand for its counterparts to follow.

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RELAX YOUNG LADY! CONTESTANT GOES HEAD ON WITH DEDE MABIAKU

There is nothing as daring as a very confident young, lady.

The last Nigerian Idol recording, which aired nationwide on Sunday, March 30, 2014, revealed a new side of Dawn, a contestant from Lagos, as she got argumentative with Dede after her performance.

The beautiful student who looked ravishing in an all black outfit had the hard to impress judge, Dede Mabiaku to contend with for missing some lines in her lyrics after her performance of ‘Next to Me’ by Emeli Sande.

“Good start, but why did you forget your lyrics?” said Dede. “I didn’t forget my lyrics,” argued Dawn repetitively.

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DAREY ART-ALADE LOOSES COOL ON NATIONAL TV

The first episode showcasing the first group of the Top 30 contestants of Africa’s No 1 music talent show, Nigerian Idol that aired on Sunday, March 23, 2014 saw Multi-talented entertainer and King of R&B, Darey Art-Alade lash out at a contestant after a woeful performance.

Royal George, a contestant from Benin performed Rihanna’s all time hit song, ‘Diamonds.’ Aside from having pitch issues, George also made a mess with the lyrics of the song.

“That was a royal mess,” said a disappointed Darey. “Messy lyrics, pitch issues, you know you didn’t do well,” he added.

Too harsh or words well said, what is your take on Darey’s reaction?

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NIGERIAN IDOL GETS FIERCE! FIRST 3 CONTESTANTS QUALIFY FOR TOP 12 STAGE

… As second season alumni comes back as guest artiste

The hottest music reality show in Africa, Nigerian Idol is blazing hot week after week, as 12 of the numerous contestants are selected for the gala rounds.

Performing songs from international artistes, the first group of 10 had four golden tickets recipient from the audition phase. 3 of these acts will be revealed at the first result show that airs on Saturday, March 29, 2013 as contestants in the Top 12.

Also, performing at the result show is a Nigerian Idol alumni, Stephen Onochie popularly known as Steve "O". He emerged as 2nd runner-up in second the season while Mercy Chinwo emerged winner.

Sponsored by Etisalat and Pepsi, Nigerian Idol is aired on Saturday and Sunday's on NTA, STV, HIP TV, CRBC Calabar, DRTV Warri and Various Startimes Channels.

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ONE NATION, EIGHT VOICES, ONE COMPETITION!

… As Top 64 contestants fight for a spot in Top 30

The biggest music reality show in the continent is all about taking risks and one of the groups of 8 in Top 64 took a great risk with their group acapella performance.

Performing one of Timi Dakolo’s hit songs, ‘One Nation’, the group that comprised of Vicci, Blessing Isaac, Daniel Buba, Onyinechukwu Udodi and others gave a unique rendition of the song.

Unfortunately for the group, Blessing Isaac didn’t hit the last note right and the judges especially Dede referred to it as a disaster. 

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58-YEAR-OLD MAN AUDITIONS FOR NIGERIAN IDOL SEASON 4

Age restriction definitely has no hold on Mr Bassey Lawrence.

The 58-year old trader, came prepared for the Nigerian Idol auditions in Calabar but his aim wasn’t to be the next Nigerian Idol but for an opportunity to gain exposure.

With his rendition of a personal composition and the aid of his guitar, the judges were pleased with outburst of joy and enthusiasm.

“Your rendition may not be what we are looking for in Nigerian Idol, but you have come out for the world to know you and I am sure that your goal has been accomplished,” said Dare.

Catch all the fun and excitement as the city of Lagos takes the stage this weekend as Nigerian Idol airs the final auditions on HIP TV, AIT, STV, Various Startimes Channels, DRTV Warri and CRBC Calabar. 

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NIGERIAN IDOL CONTESTANT MAKES A MESS OF FLAVOUR’S SONG ‘ADA ADA’

…. As Benue hosts Nigerian Idol for the first time

This is one video that will leave you with mixed emotions of anger and laughter.

For the first time in 4 seasons, Africa’s biggest music reality show, Nigerian Idol made a stop at the Food Basket of Nigeria, Benue for an opportunity to harvest unique voices.

23-year-old, Patrick Ahemba thought it a good idea to meet the judging trio of Dare Art-Alade, Nneka Egbuna and Dede Mabiaku with his own version of Flavour’s hit track, ‘Ada Ada.’ 

Not only did he sing off key, he got the words all mumbled up and totally different from the original version. “Did you practice this song very well? If you did there is absolutely nothing in this world you will be able to sing,” said an irritated Dede.

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