Editors at Nigeria's Foremost Web-page for
entertainment (TheNETNG) sat down to make a list of
52 men and women shaping our growing
entertainment industry… Check It Out.
…………………………………………………..
2face Idibia:
Mr Innocent Ujah Idibia is one of the most influential,
the most consistent, the most decorated, and the
most successful musician in his generation. Even his
peers attest to that. From humble beginnings in Jos,
he has grown to become Africa's most iconic pop star,
clearing the path for hundreds of others after him.
Respected at home and abroad by almost everyone
that matters, Idibia is now building his Hypertek
dreams, mentoring younger acts like W4, Rocksteady
and Dammy Krane.
Alaba Marketers:
Although digital distribution is now finding its way to
Nigeria with platforms such as Spinlet, Truspot,
Iroking and Notjustok, and with the coming of Apple,
marketers like Obaino, ABHU, and TJOE still wield
their potent influence on music distribution. With
many Nigerians consuming physical CDs, and the
industry lacking the much-needed distribution
framework, Alaba is the headquarters of music sales,
with those there responsible for at least 90 percent of
annual music sales.
Alex Okosi:
Okosi sits atop Viacom's business in Africa, with
Nigeria being a major market. From MTV Base to
Comedy Central, Nickelodeon and now BET, he is one
of the few determining the direction of today's home
entertainment.
Ali Baba:
Nigeria's stand-up comedy industry has him to thank
for its rebirth and survival. The godfather of modern
comedy, Ali Baba is arguably one of the most
inspiring mentors and leaders still working within
entertainment. Still actively performing, he continues
to hold up the ladder for many to climb.
Amaka Igwe:
One of the architects of Nollywood, Amaka Igwe is
mostly known for creating Checkmate and Fuji House
of Commotion. But the writer/director/producer has,
for many years, been involved in training through her
Lagos-based institute. There's also her annual TV
expo BOBTV as well as Top Radio, the Lagos-based
FM station that's doing things differently.
Andy Bello:
For the last four years, Bello has taken it upon
himself to honour Nigerian musicians with the annual
South South Music Awards; the only recognized
awards show from that region. Solely organized by
his Lockdown Entertainment company, Bello has
been able to run the awards show with little or no
sponsors since 2009.
Audu Maikori:
For years, he was lawyer by day and poet by night.
These days, Maikori is a music entrepreneur by day
and night, building, along with his team, Chocolate
City, one of Africa's most successful labels. Audu's
label has brought hip hop music and culture to more
Nigerians than any other label – thanks to the
success of their recording artistes M.I, Brymo, Jesse
Jagz and Ice Prince.
Ayo Animashaun:
Animashaun is the executive producer of Nigeria's
only surviving music awards. Through his company,
Smooth Promotions, he has built The Headies (also
known as Hiphopworld Awards) as Nigeria's most
respected awards, as acknowledged by audiences
and the musicians they reward. Animashaun is also
the publisher of Nigeria's only surviving (although
epileptic) hip-hop journal HipHop World Magazine.
His TV show Hip TV, syndicated on multiple channels
here and abroad, is now warming up to become a 24
hour cable channel.
BellaNaija:
Bellanaija has been able to tag itself as the one-stop
online portal for stories revolving around Nigerian
fashion, wedding moments and heart-touching
stories. If you are a lady who's single, married or a
mother, you definitely have this website bookmarked.
Biola Alabi:
The Managing Director at M-NET Africa over the last
three years has harnessed the African TV viewing
culture, with not just the quantity but quality of
African programming. She also spearheaded the
creation of the newly launched AfricaMagic channels.
Cecil Hammond:
Hammond's Flytime has become the go-to promoter
for those hoping to have successful shows in Lagos,
Nigeria's entertainment HQ. From owning the famous
Rhythm Unplugged property, to exclusive deals with
Silverbird and Eko Hotels, and a media structure that
works, Hammond is emerging as a major force in
today's industry.
Chris Ubosi:
A complete behind-the-scenes man, Ubosi moved
from being a big player at Cool FM to set up
Megalectrics Limited, owners of radio stations –
Premium choice BEAT 99.9FM, retro-styled Classic FM
93.7 and pidgin-speaking Naija FM 102.7, which have
all become fan favourites in Lagos. Beat FM
especially, has redefined today's pop music, with
OAPs like Olisa Adibua, Gbemi and Toolz creating a
new set of stars that otherwise could have remained
unsung. Megaletrics is now taking the game to
Ibadan and other regions…
Clarence Peters:
No other director in Nigeria can match up to Clarence
Peters' combination of talent and work. From
shooting videos for top artistes in and outside Nigeria
to co-running a record label, he keeps setting
standards by taking his work up a notch every time.
Cobhams Asuquo:
classical yet contemporary, the revered visually
impaired producer is placed in the highest of ranks
when music production in Nigeria is mentioned. His
recent successful work with his label artiste Bez
proves beyond words his mastery of sound.
D'Banj:
'Entertainer', the best word to describe the 32-year-
old. Dapo Oyebanjo has broken barriers again and
again; name it – winning world recognized awards,
collaborating with international artistes, signing up
with one of the biggest labels in the US, and making
a bunch of white girls sing passionately to his songs.
Need we say more?
Davido:
At just 19, the energetic lad has broken into the
music industry, scoring hits upon hits, and giving
inspiration to a generation of young upcoming
artistes in the country. The self-proclaimed 'Omo
baba olowo' now joins fellow pop acts Wizkid and
Wande Coal, who are often used as yard sticks to
measure the success of young artistes here. As his
popularity and influence continue to grow, he would
need to be careful, as there are many potholes ahead.
DJ Jimmy JATT:
Africa's most iconic DJ, Jimmy is the bonafide leader
of old and new school jockeys on the continent. And
he's worn that hat since his early days at Obalende,
through Surulere, both in Lagos. Pathfinder,
innovator, teacher, influencer and performer, he's lit
the way for many, and scored many firsts – including
his remarkable mixtape, TV show, and snapback
range…
Don Jazzy:
Many of the biggest hit songs you heard on your
radio were made by Michael Collins. Don Jazzy has
been able to create a cult following amongst fans,
successfully selling off his persona. Despite breaking
up with former label partner D'banj, Don Jazzy still
stands tall amongst other producers.
Efe Omorogbe:
Efe Omorogbe is the co-founder of Now Muzik,
Nigeria's leading talent management company. A
firm supporter of underground talent, the English
graduate is also a major force in the battle for
collective rights administration, through his music
industry coalition initiative.
Edi Lawani:
The elder has been organizing shows and concerts
since before Benita Okojie popped up on TV. Over the
years, Lawani has shown exemplary and
commendable work as a technical and events expert,
working from behind the scenes to give the best
output – a fantastic show. He still stays in the fore of
things as the brain behind most shows.
Emem Isong:
This movie producer remains prominent for her
constructive role in Nollywood, producing award
winning movies for close to two decades. Isong, also a
film maker and scriptwriter, owns a film academy
where she trains people on acting, directing and
screenplay writing.
Femi Ayeni:
The Ultima Boss runs MTN Project Fame West Africa -
one of the biggest music talent hunt shows in this
market. Conservative, yet omnipresent, Ayeni is a
star-maker who himself, rarely gets noticed. His other
asset is the hugely successful 'Who Wants to be a
Millionaire' TV game show.
Femi Kuti:
The Afrobeat maestro fit into his father's shoes years
ago, and ever since, whether or not he can carry the
Kuti legacy hasn't been questioned. The three-time
Grammy Award nominee is often known to voice his
opinion against bad governance in support of the
masses, and with the help of his sister Yeni Kuti,
hosts the yearly Felabration in honour of his late
father Fela Anikulapo Kuti.
Funke Akindele Almaruf:
Akindele invaded our home years ago when she was
a teenager and returned as 'Jenifa' years later. Her
movies did not only sell out in cinemas, but have
caught the eyes and hearts of the young and old.
Genevieve Nnaji:
The Nollywood actress has remained in the top
position when counting female movie personalities in
Nollywood. Described by CNN as the Julia Roberts of
Nollywood, Nnaji's profiling on the international
scene has been a big boost to her career, not
counting the many movies she's scored hits in.
Jason Njoku:
Credited for creating what the international media
has described as the 'Netflix of Africa,' Njoku has
combined technology and creativity to satisfy the
ever-growing needs of Nollywood fans across the
world, ranking in the Forbes 'African millionaires to
watch' list.
Jide Kosoko:
The seasoned actor has constantly featured in Yoruba
and English movies, but hasn't limited his role in the
Nigerian film industry there. Working behind the
scenes as a major influence within the Association of
Nigeria Theatre Act Practitioners (ANTP) and the
National Association of Nigerian Theatre Arts
Practitioners (NANTAP), Kosoko has survived for a
long time, and is still as relevant as he was two
decades ago.
Kenny Ogungbe and Dayo Adeneye:
Keke and D1 practically revolutionized the way music
was being presented on radio and TV back in the 90s;
setting a standard which was studied by every other
competitor who dared walked in their footsteps. And
when new media and the digital age came knocking,
the duo were there to embrace it and forge ahead.
Add that to the KENNIS Music label and gigantic
artiste roster, plus the yearly Kennis Music Easter
Fiesta, which has been running for nearly a decade-
and-a-half.
King Sunny Ade:
Only a few have the blessing of longevity that Sunday
Adeniyi Adegeye has. Few have his crossover appeal
and influence. An important voice in industry affairs,
from COSON to PMAN, KSA is constantly working the
back end, using his experience, contacts and
resources to help younger artistes, resolve conflicts,
bridge gaps and create opportunities.
Kunle Afolayan:
The New York Times describes him as the Martin
Scorsese of his time and Afolayan has proven his
worth, living up to expectations when he releases his
movies. From his debut production 'Irapada' to the
critically reviewed action-drama 'Figurine' and the
recent drama-comedy 'Phone Swap,' the accounting
graduate has shown finesse in all his work.
KWAM 1:
He's slowing down these days, but K1 the Ultimate
continues to have a firm grip on the affairs of Fuji
music. He assumed leadership of that segment long
before godfather Ayinde Barrister retired. And many
young and established Fuji acts – and their fans – will
tell you K1 is lord. Obesere won't agree with them
though.
Linda Ikeji:
From gossip blogging out of passion to making
millions, the last six years have been phenomenal for
the former model. Knowingly or not, Miss Ikeji's blog
has remodelled the face of entertainment, breaking
some of the biggest, and at times, most controversial
stories.
M.I:
At a time when the Hip-hop genre has not fully been
embraced in Nigeria, Jude Abaga has been able to
worm his way into the hearts of music lovers with his
skillful wordplay. Setting the pace, upcoming rappers
are inspired by his artistry and ability to yield, yet not
fully conform to the commercial appeal of listeners.
Matthew Ohio:
Wednesday nights are no longer ordinary nights in
Lagos – ever since Industry Nite, the weekly talent
show case-party, kicked off. Put together by events
promoter Matthew Ohio, Industry Nite has hosted the
biggest of stars and has proved instrumental in the
careers of many upcoming talents. The property is
now moving to Port Harcourt and other parts,
establishing itself as the biggest and most consistent
industry talent showcase…. Little wonder it has
received sponsorship from the likes of digital
company Spinlet.
The Murray-Bruces:
We can all agree that the Bruces have played many
major roles in taking entertainment to the next level.
Spearheaded by Ben Murray-Bruce, the family has
not only succeeded in radio and TV broadcasting, but
also made cinema culture fashionable again, with the
ubiquitous SIlverbird Cinemas. Their 'Most Beautiful
Girl in Nigeria' pageant also remains popular, despite
a sad drop in quality…
NotjustOk:
The site, run by two young men, Demola Ogundele
and Ovie Ofugara has been the one-stop place to
listen to the latest music and/or watch the latest
videos. Gathering a lot of readers from home and
away, some Nigerian artistes would rather their
songs make the website than any other place on the
web.
Obi Asika:
Bold and always in the know, record label owner Obi
Asika has had a hell of a run in the entertainment
industry. He's been running the Storm 360 label for
years, first signing some of the game's biggest
artistes, and pulling the strings behind reality shows
like 2005′s Big Brother Nigeria.
Ola Balogun (Olasco):
The movie sponsor and marketer understands the
audience. And for many years now, he has given his
backing to projects guaranteed to succeed. One good
example: Funke Akindele's 'Jenifa'.
Omotola Jalade:
Being a busy wife and mother of four has taken away
nothing, but added even more publicity to the diva
that remains at the top of the food chain as regards
Nollywood female actresses. Omosexy, as she is
fondly called, has keyed in her persona just like her
'rival' Genevieve Nnaji has done for herself.
P-Square:
The twin pop stars have broken barriers and set
standards right from their debut work, captivating us
with breath-taking videos and dance moves that
would do more than raise an eyebrow from Usher
Raymond. Five albums later, Peter and Paul Okoye
are still at it, collaborating with international artistes
and signing major distribution deals with top
international labels.
Peace Fiberesima:
She's the woman behind the African Movie Academy
Awards which has been running for 12 solid editions,
gathering movie stars from all over Africa. Fiberesima
has positioned the awards show as the most credible
and consistent honorary show often described as the
'African Oscars'.
Richard Mofe Damijo:
From his days as Segun Kadiri in the Amaka Igwe
classic Checkmate, to his Nollywood moments,
standing as one of the top actors in the scene, RMD
has always stood out. The 51-year-old is now a state
commissioner and continues to influence the younger
generation.
Rotimi Pedro:
Pedro, the Optima Media Group founder, is rapidly
becoming a major force to reckon with. With Nigerian
Idol and Nigeria's Got Talent grabbing big market
shares, the sports veteran and his team are
delivering entertainment to millions of Nigerians
while giving many an opportunity to kick off their
careers.
Ruth Osime:
Under the watch of Nduka Obaigbena, Ms Osime has
created the most successful fashion platform in
Nigeria – despite the fact that THISDAY Style is a free
pull out in THIS DAY The Sunday Newspaper.
Segun Arinze:
The talented actor-singer-TV host has been there and
done that. Whether releasing singles and videos to
hitting Nollywood as 'Black arrow' in the Nollywood
classic 'Silent Night' and even taking time off to host
the popular but short-lived AIT talk show 'No holds
barred,' Arinze has cultivated a habit of working
passionately. His concerns surpass what many
thought when he decided to run for the post of
President at the Actors' Guild of Nigeria (AGN) and
eventually won.
Sola Fajobi:
Sola Fajobi must have seen the light in Nollywood
many years before we all woke up. Through his Next
Movie Star reality show, he has contributed to the
training, development, and promotion of Nollywood
stars more than anyone in his industry.
Tajudeen Adepetu:
It's been almost two decades since Adepetu worked
his way into the hearts of Nigerians with the
household sitcom 'Family Circle,' then with 'Everyday
people.' His vision is exemplary; starting a music
station which initia
Sent from my BlackBerry wireless device from MTN
No comments:
Post a Comment