Figurine

It has got to be the most clever movie title to come out of Nigeria and if acclaims by those who have seen the premier in Nigeria is anything to go by, then this is not just a movie with a clever title, but also a movie that could boast of remarkable performances and cinematography that one can be proud of.

It looks like Kunle Afolayan whom many came to know when he starred in Saworoide over a decade ago has come a long way. He has grown from a fresh faced young man to a confident man who commands respect not only from his peers but also from the veterans of the movie industry in Nigeria for his raw talent and ability to consistently deliver good movies.

They have brought the premier of Figurine (Araromire) to our very doors in SE London this Saturday 31st October at the Odeon Cinema, Bugsby Way SE10 0QJ. It is slated to be a red carpet event with door opening at 9pm and photo opportunity starts for 9:30pm while the main show begins at 10:30pm prompt. Notable Nigerian Actor and Actress that has been confirmed to attend include Ramsey Noah and Funlola Aofiyebi. Standard tickets costs £10 and can be bought from popular Nigerian restaurants from East London to North London. You may also call the 24hr ticket hotlines using the following numbers 07956374473, 07859926100, 07932424175.

The Organisers who have teamed up with DJA Media to bring you an afterparty at Planet Nollywood, in Camberwell SE London are keen to stress that there is absolutely no Nigerian timing at this event. They are almost certain that everything will go as scheduled and urge everyone to turn up on time. Please note that tickets will not be sold on the day so you must get your tickets in advance. There's a possiblity that they may sell a number of tickets at the door for early attendees but this cannot be guaranteed.

Enjoy the movie trailer at the right side of this page and Scoops will definitely bring you the low down of the event at a later date.

...And The Winners Are

Shush...don't breath a word of this to anyone. Scoops actually did not attend the AMA at Troxy last weekend. Why, you ask me? Well things we do for friends eh? Nuff said!

However you don't have to miss a thing. From what I hear it was a good event and whether all the lined up Artists performed is another thing. But below is something certain - that there were winners and they are;

Artist of the Year
Amr Diab – Egypt

Song of the Year
Amr Diab – Egypt

Best Male Act
Amr Diab – Egypt

Best Female Act
Sasha - Nigeria

Best Newcomer
M Trill - Nigeria

Best Group/Collaboration
D’Banj feat. Mo Hit Star - Nigeria

Best Raggae/Dancehall
Samini (Movement) – Ghana

Best Afro Hip Hop
2 Face – Enter the Place

Best African Southern
Terence Mas

Best African West
Okyeama Kwame - Ghana

Best African Artist East
Radio & Weasle

Radio DJ of the Year
Abrantee – Choice FM

Music Promoter of the Year
Waka J Promotions

Urban Artist of African Origin
Tinchy Strider

Best UK Based African Artist
JJC Skillz

UK Best New Talent
Imitah

Would you believe the organisers have set the wheel in motion for next year's event already? Well they've chosen the O2 Arena and if Scoops is still around by then I shall be bringing you the gist.

Aside - So I had a chat with Steel last month when he came to perform at the Yes Concert. He was not pleased at the nominees for the awards as he felt there were more credible Artist out there right now who deserved to win than the same old ones walking away with the awards. Do you agree? Look forward to the rest of the interview sometime in the near future.

Peace and out!

Nominations Are Out for the 2nd Annual AMA 2009

The Africa Music Award nomination party that took place at Gold Coast 40 Acre lane yesterday saw a humble turnout of the Media who is who in London. Scoops can reliably inform you that the nominees for this year's AMA billed to take place on 17th October are as follows;

ARTIST OF THE YEAR
2Face - Nigeria
Radio & Weasel - Uganda
Amr Diab - Egypt
HHP – South Africa

SONG OF THE YEAR
9ice – Gonso – Nigeria
Radio & Weasel - Bread & Butter – Uganda
Amr Diab – Wayah - Egypt
Okyeame Kwame – Woso _ Ghana

MUSIC VIDEO OF THE YEAR
9ice – Gonso – Nigeria
2face – Enter The Place – Nigeria
Amr Diab –Wayah _ Egypt
P Square – Do Me - Nigeria

BEST MALE ACT
Bracket - Nigeria
Amr Diab - Egypt
Radio & Weasel - Uganda
Awilo – DR Congo

BEST FEMALE ACT
Viviane Ndour – Senegal
Beca – Ghana
Sasha – Nigeria
Juliana Kanyomonzi - Uganda

BEST NEWCOMER
Asem – Ghana
Radio & Weasel - Uganda
Jusa Dementor – Zimbabwe
M Trill - Nigeria

BEST GROUP / COLOABORATION
Da L.E.S. feat. Bongz & Maggz – South Africa
P Square – Nigeria
D'Banj feat. Mo Hit Star – Nigeria
Bobi Wine & Wahu – Uganda & Kenya

BEST REGGAE / DANCEHALL
Bobi Wine - Mazzi Mawanvu – Uganda
Wahu - Sweet Luv - Kenya
Samini – Movement - Ghana
Bantu - Where Di Water - Nigeria

BEST AFRO HIP HOP
Okyeame Kwame – Woso – Ghana
Hip Hop Pantsula - for All I need - South Africa
2 Face - Enter The Place – Nigeria
Jay Ru - Big Boi Anthem - South Africa

BEST AFRICAN SOUTHERN
Teargas - Take You Out
Rhythmic Elements - 2 By 2
Taygrin feat. Wendy Harawa – Moto
Terence Mas

BEST AFRICAN WEST
Okyeame Kwame - Ghana
Bracket - Nigeria
Asem - Ghana
2face - Nigeria

BEST AFRICAN ARTIST EAST
Nameless
Ali Kiba
Radio & Weasle
Juliana Kayamonzi

RADIO DJ OF THE YEAR
Abrantee - Choice FM
Ace - BBC 1Xtra
DJ Edu - BBC 1Xtra
Ras Kwame - BBC 1Xtra

MUSIC PROMOTER OF THE YEAR
Blacknight Ent.
Waka J Productions
West Coast Ent.
1st Focus Media
Ed K Edris

UBAN ARTIST OF AFRICAN ORIGIN
Tinchy Stryder
Dizzee Rascal
SWAY
Estelle

BEST UK BASED AFRICAN ARTIST
JJC - Skillz
Tillaman
Soni Bally
Double D

UK BEST NEW TALENT
Mimitah
Deplaizir
May 7ven

Shady Blue

Voting has already opened at www.africamusicawards.com so visit to cast your vote for your preferred acts.

Thisday Music Festival Rescheduled

After three weeks of sold-out concerts in South Africa and Nigeria, demand for tickets to see R&B superstar R. Kelly is still so strong among his African fans that Kelly has decided to add another show in Africa on July 8. As a result of which the July 8 concert previously set for Wembley Arena in London will be rescheduled...Ticketmaster

R Kelly has released a statement saying "I hate to disappoint my fans in Britain, so I will be announcing a new London date shortly."


Scoops will keep you posted

R Kelly - Headlining at the 2009 THISDAY Music Festival

After the roaring success of last year that saw Colin Powell gyrate to Yahoozee on stage with Mr Olu Maintain, THISDAY Music Festival is upon us again. This year promises to be even better with one of the biggest RnB Stars of our time, R Kelly as the headline act. The venue is at the prestigious Wembley Arena in North London and tickets range from £40 - £80. Tickets are selling fast so click here or here to secure your own place for the 8th of July. This is a spin off of the events that started in Joannesburg to Lagos between June 20 - July 5th with the grand finale taking place here in London.

According to all Africa.com, R.Kelly is quoted to have said: "I'm very excited about my first visit to Africa. I've dreamed about this for a long time and it's finally here. It will be one of the highlights of not only my career but my life. And I can't wait to be back in the UK to perform live for my fans there -who have been some of the best in the world." Since R Kelly hasn't performed in the UK for about 8 years, it's without doubt that this would be one event you dont want to miss.

Scoops will be bringing you more information in due course.

Naeto C is Getting Seductive

Seductive as their parties are popularly called heralded a new era of clubbing amongst Nigerians in London that had never been seen before. It was a bold step in the Entertainment sector and one that takes determination to actually see through. One must applaud and support the group of individuals behind Seductive for their vision. Scoops had a chat with Abdul Olushoga one of the brains behind Seductive to have a feel of what it feels like to be a success.


Who are the brains behind Seductive and what prompted Seductive. How did you come up with the idea.

Didi, Abdul, Ade and Semy. Seductive started as a result of the house parties we were all used to organising back in the days.

It’s hard to believe that Seductive has been around for 2 years, what would you say has been the highs of being organisers of perhaps the most popular club party in the London area.

Highs of Seductive was having Danfo Drivers perform at our event at the Nigerian Independence celebration we organised. Lows of Seductive was having our event cancelled due to the fact the location went bankrupt.

You would admit that in the past that Seductive parties have been marred with some violence which in my opinion was professionally dealt with, would you say that this has marginalized your punters or has it drawn more people to it.

You are quite right with your observation. However, I would not call it violence as you put it. I would call it too much alcohol in the system that some people cannot control (too much Sepe in the system). Also, the fact that a lot of people came down to party in a location that was not big enough for the crowd attending. The funny thing is, this made the event more popular. Hence we had to act fast by ensuring people were thoroughly screened before gaining entrance into the event.

You now regularly use the Entourage club in Grays, Essex, what has been the reception of Seductive amongst Africans who live in that part of SE England seeing as most of the actions seem to happen in London.

Seductive is twice a month in Entourage and twice in a month in the city. The event is accepted all over UK. We have people coming from all over, it’s not limited to the SE area alone. Our pictures are everywhere thanks to all our friends that constantly spread the word for us, Facebook and our website www.vippartiesuk.com.

There are more promoters of club parties springing up everyday, how does Seductive crew handle their competitors?

We don’t really have to handle anybody. Seductive has got its followers and people always come with us where ever we go to. One thing we all know is DAAS ENT. is a trend setter. We started the whole saga of clubbing in this way. With pictures, T-shirts and partying like it’s your birthday. I am happy that we have created more jobs for the society in our own little way. Photographers now take pictures in clubs and get paid. T-shirts are now being made for clubs. A lot of Nigerians actually joined Facebook initially because of our event. With all these in mind, we are not too fussed about competition. Competition is good in any business, it brings out the best in you.

What should people look forward to this coming Saturday’s event?

Simply fun! That’s what Seductive is all about. It’s always so seductive and our pictures don’t lie either. DAAS ENT would like to say a BIG THANK YOU to those that constantly support our event. We really appreciate this because without you guys there would be no Seductive Saturday.

Guys the headlining act for Seductive this weekend is Naeto C and it is a big deal! Dont miss it!

Dates For Your Diary.

Scoops is fast becoming the Town Crier for Nija/Jand events by default. This was not the whole idea of starting this blog but eh if this is what it is at the moment, I just have to flow with it. Yah!

Hope y'all are enjoying the long weekend. Afrobabe, Mizchif and I had a bit of our Bomdigidi (Check out video of the day below) this weekend. I must say the company was far more enjoyable than the clubbing.

So what are the events worth adding to you diary this week? Why don't you warm up with the midweek viewing party at Clause Bar on Wednesday as per my last post. Finish that off with the MTV Base Lounge Party at the Thai Silk Restaurant, O2 in Greenwich on 31st May from 8-11pm. There's sumptuous thai food, there's soulful performance by the likes of David Mensah, Muyiwa & Riversong and Santa Leja, there's comedy by Nabil Abdulrashid, there's an appearance by MTV Base lounge host Darae Palmer and there's much more all for £6 - £10. Tickets are cheaper if booked here before the event.

If after 11pm you still wanna flex some muscles then there's the usual every weekend hang outs from Coco Bar, to Carbon, to Eclipse, to Planet Nollywood and of course Seductive in Grays Essex. This is why I love London, there's always something fun to do.

On a parting note, have you heard about Shoki Shakes? It's the new joint in town for heavenly shakes. They specialise in delicious milkshakes, smoothies, coffee cakes etc and can even take bookings for catering and birthday cakes. Based in 81b Church Road, Hendon, NW4 and open from 10am to 2am Monday to Sunday. Make a note of it and visit.

Enjoy ur week everyone.

Hey Peeps!

Hope y'all been keeping well. I know it's been a while I updated but I've got a few things lined up to make up for that.

Did anyone attend the Manchester V Arsenal viewing party? If you did then you must know that it was so much fun and for those who didn't there's another chance to. This time it's Man U V Barcelona at a choice location in the City called Clause Bar for Wednesday 27th May from 7pm. Do not miss it and you can be guaranteed yours truly will be there.

A home produced drama is premiering at the Odeon Cinema in Surrey Quays this coming bank holiday weekend called Unsaid. It boasts of some big names in Nollywood like Bimbo Akintola and Desmond Elliot as well as the comedy genius Princess Damilola Adekoya. Lets support the movie by attending and you can mingle with the stars at the after party.

On a closing note, Effect Magazine is organising the first ever Nigeria Young Achievers Awards in the UK and voting is currently on. This is a new initiative to recognise the works of Nigerians in the diaspora and we are all excited about it. Please click here to vote and let's make this a reality.

Scoops will be bringing more your way in the coming weeks. Have a good one.

Don't Hang the Boots and Heels Yet!

Well not until you've attended this Arsenal V Manchester viewing party at Club Indulgence in St John's Square, Clerkenwell EC1. You wont be attending in vain because not only is it free for ladies, guys only pay a fiver and gets the opportunity to mingle with Kanu Nwakwo. I know ladies are not so much into football but you can still attend and sway your waist as there will be a DJ and to thoroughly enjoy yourselves book a VIP table and get a complimentary bottle of Champagne. A Y on 07961919155 has more info.

Tuesday is the new Friday...dont miss it.

Keep Busy

So it's the bank holiday weekend and most of you will undoubtedly want to hit town. Scoops have gone out of her way to find what, when and where it is buzzing this weekend.

If you are still surfing the net looking for somewhere to go buggy down tonight you may consider Steam Bar at Paddington. Here you will find DJ Ladi and DJ King jockey the best of R&B, Hip hop and Afro Pop.

If tonight is too late then you may wish to make a date with Nigerian community most popular DJ, DJ Abass at Planet Nollywood in Camberwell. This Saturday night is a specially themed night to celebrate May day so go there in your funkiest office outfit. Ladies for your £5 admission fee just before midnight you may go home with a free mix CD.

If you're too posh to party in the South but will rather mingle with the Essex girls then Seductive at Entourage Bar in Grays is the place for you on the same Saturday 2nd of May. It is strictly all sexy affair but make sure you keep at least £15 handy for any entry after midnight. For guys add a fiver.

For those of us still stuck in the 80s, Scoops recommends Penthouse on Sunday night for an old school spectacular at Leicester Square with DJ Andy Smith et al. First 100 ladies need not worry about an entry fee as long as they email their names for the guest list at alist@thepenthouselondon.com.

Scoops is not just about clubbing and partying so for a more cultural and relaxing evening join our very own Nonso Anozie at the Southbank National Theater and see him act out Wole Soyinka's Death and the King's Horseman. It's showing most days until June 17 and tickets are between £10 - £30.

Enjoy the holiday. Still very much Scoops...

Sneak Peek - Tee Loye

He started out listening to music such as baby kilode and Billy Jean then he joined the choir in his local church and here he is today about to drop an album. The video shoot for his latest single takes place this Saturday at 3 Cromwell Road in South Kensington from 10am to 4pm. You are welcome to join him and be a part of it but here I present to you Tee Loye in his words.

Who is Tee Loye in a few words?
Tee Loye is a UK based Naija Afropop R&B artist . Real name Victor Babatunde Loye, he grew up in city of Ibadan and started his music career as young as the age of 7.

What would you say the genre of your music is?
Afropop/R & B

What inspires your lyrics and beats?
Personal life experience and the life of other artists all over the world

Where would you like to see your music in the next 3 years?
To reach many nations.

What are the 3 most played songs on your iPod?
"Karmal Fire" by Tee Loye, Strong and Mighty by Dat nigger raw and Sexual seduction by Snoop Dog

When does your single hit the radio waves?
2nd of May 2009

Coming soon, "Karmal Fire". Listen to it here first. Safe!

Get this widget | Track details | eSnips Social DNA

BTOK Mr Osbond Bday Bash

One of the brains behind BTOK Entertainment a London based recording label specialising in showcasing Nigerian musical talents will be partying this weekend marking his birthday.

Join the celebration at The T. Bar, 35 Camberwell Road London SE5 0EZ. DJs to thrill you on the night are DJ ADE & CO. Be sure to party with musical heavy weights such as 9ice supported by Lord Of Ajasa, Cabbasafull House Crew (FHC), DJ Bombastic of Star FM 101.5 and many more. Smart and sexy is the theme of the night and be ready to dazzle. For more info reach Btok Bt on 07852966463 or Btok Ify 07951370832.

Scoops may just be there to add some spice...watch out!

Failed My First Task

...And I hold my hands up. I was meant to go cover the Sauce kid event but I let other things overtake me. I feel so rotten but I'll make it up to you. There are a few things lined up that Scoops will be bringing your way like the video shoot of one of Magic Entertainment acts and an interview with a London based actress who will premier her own movie soon.

As usual ScoopsNija is the spot for current entertainment news. Keep reading and God bless.

Lifting The Curtains on One of Nigeria's Foremost Designers

Familusi Akin Babs is a renowned Designer, Stylist and Image Consultant who was not only nominated but also won the prestigious Designer of the year award at the Mode Men awards in 2008. Scoops caught up with FAB who is the CEO of Exclamation Couture and currently taking appointments in the UK for bespoke suits. The Designer who specialises in ties, shirts and suits has this to say; 

> If you were stuck on a desert what 3 things will you take with you.

Firstly, taking three things would ideally mean I had been forewarned and it was something I was looking forward to. I would take my bible, clothes consisting of cotton that breathes for underclothes because of the heat experienced in the day time and a cashmere blend for a suit plus good pair of leather shoes to protect myself from the possibly harsh weather at night and lastly a fully charged contract mobile phone that will ensure that I can reach the necessary authorities and rescue team when my time-out in the desert does expire!

> Where and how do you source your materials?

I source fabric from the UK, Italy and sometimes Asia 

> Where would you like to see your work in the next 3 years?

In major stores worldwide in ready-to-wear forms. On same runway as Tom Ford and (or) Ozwald Boateng.

> What is the most expensive piece of clothing you designed and who bought it?

A Silver English Damask Tuxedo jacket, with a shawl collar that was auctioned in Washington DC for charity. An upcoming actor bought it.

> Three things you’d say to upcoming Designers

1. Identify your strengths as a designer and enhance these.
   
2. It is not a walk in the park, you need the passion to continuously propel you.
   
3. Create an identity for yourself and stick with it.

> If you were a material what would you be and why?

I would be tweed, I am as complicated as its weave!

Scoops will be bringing you more info on FAB and any other fashion related gist plus much more. Thanks for reading

Yebariba Samboribobo Crooner Storms UK

Yea, you read right. Sauce Kid storms London this 17th of April weekend, performing his hot tracks at Club Da Boss located at 116 - 118 Woolwich High Street, SE18 6DS.

Tickets are available at the door for £10 for ladies and gentlemen pay £15. This is his first UK performance and must not be missed. Stay glued to this space for more news on Sauce Kid.