Milounge Editorials

MEDIA COVERAGE AT OTIS BY MILOUNGE CAMPUS

2011-10-08T05:15:00.000-07:00

NEW TRACKS FROM AKAYBEE + BIO (EXCLUSIVE TO MILOUNGE MUSIC)

2011-10-01T12:00:00.000-07:00

Akaybee was born in the middle belt of Nigeria, Benue state, and attended Mount Saint Gabriel’s Secondary School, Makurdi, where he joined the school choir and was drilled to become a singer. His drive into becoming a song writer and singer was inspired by his ability to sing and as well write. He took up music professionally shortly after high school and till date he has been doing it. Akaybee is into what we call today the “Trey-Chris- Ne-yoic” genre of music popularly called R&B and a little of the Nigerian flavour. Some of his mentors in music are 2face Idibia, Banky W and a host of many others. His inspiration for writing arises from listening to songs, reading, and travels.

Akaybee enjoys playing basketball, hanging out, swimming and also producing in his spare time. He is not just a good singer and song writer, but also a rapper and a keyboardist. Even more amazingly he is self taught, a true born talent. His first single, "Ur Soldier" reached the 4th spot on Cool fm chat, Abuja back in 2009. He had to take a break to finish his 1^st degree in information system from the American university of Nigeria graduating class of 2011. He has collaborated with the likes of Jesse Jagz, Double Dee, T klex (his producer), Jay AuGg, Audio, Mo sani, Tycoon and loads of others.

His idea of making a mark in the Nigerian music industry is by creating distinctive songs with great melody. Presently akaybee is waiting for youth cop service and alongside pushing his 1st single off his forth coming album titled boombox. Presently signed under a management team, MiloungeMusic.

Download Let's go

Download Jeka celebrate

EXCLUSIVE PHOTOS FROM 2FACE IDIBIA'S BIRTHDAY BASH AT SLICKS BAR VGC LAGOS

2011-09-20T11:11:00.000-07:00

I DO NOT LIKE Notjustok.com by Charles Oh

2011-06-14T16:31:00.000-07:00

I do not like Notjustok.com! Yes I said it. I do not like notjustok.com. Neither do I like Gidilounge nor any of those look alike sites.

Why? There’s too much crap music that makes it on to those websites while people who actually have the talent and really great songs don’t get a chance to get on the website.
For the longest time I have had a certain dislike for the websites like this. Every day you hear stories from upcoming artistes about how their song was shunned by the admins at notjustok or whatever other site they try to get on.
A few days ago, whilst surfing the net and trying to keep up with what Nigerian music is out there I realized something. Do you know that nowhere in NotjustOk’s misson statement does it say the website is dedicated to hosting songs from upcoming artistes? Neither does Gidilounge or any other heavy traffic music blog/website promise such. So my question is where did this idea come from anyway? Who put it in the head of underground artistes that Notjustok and Co exist to promote upcoming artistes?
You have to realize that regardless of all the talk, the website is first and foremost a business and not an NGO. The first criterion to be a business is to make profit. That been said, whatever means Mola and Ovie (and every other admin who runs a website like this) can utilize to make profit would be explored. Either getting paid for promoting any artiste and I mean any artiste or selling A-list artistes albums. So if you are still sending emails to these admins then it means you really are not ready to take your music seriously!
Every day you hear things on the radio like, “new artistes hour” yeah right! That’s whole load of horse crap. I can tell u from experience that if you send in your CD’s it would languish in some carton under their table there. People who get on those shows are either personal friends of the DJ or show producer or OAP or Label managed artistes. So don’t dull.
Take Rebecca Black and her “Friday” single. That song was probably the worst song ever put on YouTube. Even worse than majela’s shenanigans, but she’s made over 1.5million dollars from that song. How did she do it? Well YouTube is free innit? Why not upload your track and drive traffic to your song. Remember no one can chase your dreams for you.
A lot of artistes out there have over 2,000 some Facebook friends. Why not post a link to your song on facebook and go from there? Say of your 2000 friends , 1000 of them see the post and re post it to their say 500 friends each who in turn re post it. You do the maths! Even not just ok cannot boast of such hits if you eventually succeed in getting your song on their website.
Everyday some lame hash tag (#) thing trends on twitter. How do you think that happens? Why can’t that be your name in front of the hash tag? The reality is promo companies and website would very soon become obsolete.
Set up a reverbnation.com page! Its absolutely free. Link it up to your Facebook and twitter accounts. I can’t tell u how many times I have clicked on someone’s twitter handle just from something a friend retweeted and from there spent about a good amount of time listening to their songs on reverbnation or sound cloud. That’s one more fan they can call their own (provided the songs good sha)
We all have friends who have blogs. Trust me I know from experience that every blogger needs content. So why not give them a concise bio and a link to your songs on 4shared.com or reverbnation/soundcloud. There are blogs like towsynuab.blogspot.com, that cater to just upcoming artistes and they are always looking to put buzz worthy artistes on for free.
These are just a few examples of how you can create your own buzz for free and in some cases get paid. YouTube and Reverbnation are decent revenue sharing opportunities. Fact is no Label that’s worth anything is willing to sign anyone who does not have at least a decent enough body of work and buzz.
Remember, nothing good comes easy. Quit sitting on your a** and hating on WizKid and his axe. Do something! Get a day job! Save up and get in the studio. Keep honing your craft believe me one day it would pay-off . If you believe in yourself so much why not put it all on the line.
On the other hand you can keep emailing notjustok.com. One day God will answer your prayer.

Click here to follow Charles on twitter for more controversial tweets
Follow his blog here for more controversial posts

Beyonce's performance at the 2011 Billboard Awards

2011-06-09T08:17:00.000-07:00

Oh my days she performed with the yak twins....the moves are sick though, but why so many triangles and pyramids very freaky....great live performance though looked more like a music video. Beyonce is thick sha, she was even dancing makossa at some point, doing the stanky leg and all sef but the babe is a young achiever. The amount of girls on stage with her though, impressive! I see Michelle, Kelly Rowland and Rihanna looking so amazed and proud.
Jay Z is just like "yeh that's ma gurl".

Thorough Glass: Greatest Marriage Proposal

2011-06-09T07:54:00.000-07:00

Thorough Glass: Greatest Marriage Proposal: ":O :O Now this is some proposal..."

Thorough Glass: This is very Relevant (I Think)

2011-06-09T07:28:00.000-07:00

Thorough Glass: This is very Relevant (I Think): "“You`re so much stronger when your partner is strong. I honestly believe there is no woman for me but Jada. Of all the women I`ve met - and ..."

Nollywood by Mindspace: DAGRIN'S GHETTO DREAMZ MOVIE: MY TAKE

2011-06-09T07:23:00.000-07:00

Nollywood by Mindspace: DAGRIN'S GHETTO DREAMZ MOVIE: MY TAKE: "GRIM reality stared me in the face as I proceeded into Silverbird Cinema, venue of Dagrin movie biopic. This was as a result of my unprepa..."

Nollywood by Mindspace: NEW MOVIE TRAILER: KISS AND TELL

2011-06-09T07:16:00.000-07:00

Nollywood by Mindspace: NEW MOVIE TRAILER: KISS AND TELL: "Royal Arts Academy has released the trailer of an upcoming romantic movie titled Kiss and Tell. The movie is jointly produced Monalisa Chind..."

ALL THE SINGLE LADIES!!!! by Tomilola Lawal

2011-05-26T06:45:00.000-07:00

Hey ladies, enjoy this piece, I hope it blesses us all.

Firstly, to clarify, when I say single ladies, I mean unmarried ladies.

What exactly do we think the whole essence of being in relationships means? Is it so that we can be experienced? Or is it so that we can be tagged as ‘normal’ in today’s society? Or perhaps, it’s just to have ‘fun’ as we call it.

To be honest, when we see some dudes, they may seem perfect as boyfriends. I mean, we see them and think oh, they’re hot, they could be the ‘guy-of-the-moment’, but what’s the whole essence when you know deep down that he really isn’t husband material. You certainly don’t want a guy that spends all his time in clubs- raving, drinking, womanizing and on and on as a husband. Now, you may think he’s cool and your friends think so too, but what happens when he becomes your husband?

I’m not writing to tell you the kind of dudes you should date or not date, because I really don’t know them. Asides that, wouldn’t you just feel as if they are rules and regulations, and trust me, they had to keep and much easier to break.

All I’m saying is you need to know God so well and then, you will be able to have a real/ideal spec of who the ‘one’ should be or who the one is. Knowing and obeying God just makes everything so much easier. Knowing Him intimately, helps you have standards, and that way, you know those you are not even going to give second thoughts to.

I don’t want us to feel obliged to date every single person that is attracted to us. Guys will definitely come, in fact, they should come, but it’s what we do with them or how we respond to them that counts.

I personally, don’t have a spec, but there’s one thing I know, he HAS to be a Christian. By Christian I don’t mean church-goer, no. I mean Spirit-filled, Jesus-lover Christian. I don’t need need to start saying he shouldn’t be womanizer, shouldn’t be a smoker and blah, blah, blah. Him being a Christian, covers it all.

Here’s the thing, if you don’t know who are looking for, you’ll find anything. And it’s only God that knows what’s best for you. In Jeremiah 29:11, He says concerning you “For I know the thoughts that I think toward you, saith the LORD, thoughts of peace, and not of evil, to give you an expected end.”Your future hubby is definitely included in the expected end.

I’m not married, but I have come to know that marriage is not rosy all the time. There are challenges, so how do we conquer them without Christ being the foundation of our home? He (Christ) isn’t one of the options, He’s the way (John 14:6).

One more thing, stop thinking about how fast your biological clock is ticking and try to speed up the process. Our Father, your Father isn’t restricted by time in fact, He created it, so walk with His time.

On a final note, don’t focus on getting a husband, Jesus says in Matthew 6:33 “But seek ye first the kingdom of God, and his righteousness; and all these things shall be added unto you.”.

Food for thought:

1. Don’t be in a relationship with someone for the sake of it, be in a relationship because you KNOW he’s d “one”.

2. “A woman’s heart should be so hidden in Christ that a man should have to seek Him first to find her”`~ Maya Angelou (I think..lol)

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/tomilolalawal

Twitter: http://twitter.com/#!/Thomilola

Blogs: http://totallyrandomish.blogspot.com/

http://revealingrhema.blogspot.com/

GET TO KNOW THE MILOUNGE REPS -MISS S.A.O.

2011-05-24T12:55:00.000-07:00

*Name: Shade A' Onakoya aka miss S.A.O

*Age: 21 years and counting...

*Current relationship status:

*Interesting facts about yourself: I can't go a day without eating some form of sugar, I love reading a novel right before bed + I love fashion.

*Plans for the future: I plan to be THE BEST accessories designer that the world has ever seen.

*Ever been in love: well... Let's just say love is a beautiful thing.

*Your views on religion: I believe in the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit

*Your views on drugs and alcohol: both would kill you, so what's the point? Stay away from drugs and alcohol.

*Have you ever thought about committing suicide: NOPE! Why should I? I'm living my life like its golden.

*Your favourite songs of all time:

*Your views on sex before marriage: its a sin, but its also a choice.

*Your typical day: my typical day starts with me waking up later than I should, rushing to have a bath, and spending hours trying to figure out what to wear. I'm a lively bubbly person, and I try to make every single day a memorable one, both for me and for the people around me.

*Dream holiday: a shopping trip to Paris, Italy, and then the big apple... New York.

*Earliest memory: Age 8, my mother giving me a mini red and white sewing machine as a gift.

*How important is education: VERY important.

*Favourite shows: Oprah, Keeping Up With The Kardashians, Holly's World, Jerseylicious.

*Which celebrities in the world do you find attractive:

*Favourite movie: Hall Pass

*Someone who fascinates you: two people facinate me. The first is Oprah Winfrey, because she's a strong black woman who has been able to motivate and empower women all over the world with her actions. The second person is Luto Tailo, the CEO and CDD of NACK... He is a very creative designer. The style and design of his casual brand is beyond amazing. + his determination and zeal intrigues me.

*What kind of person attracts you: intelligent, lively, funny people.

*A problem you have had:

*Something/someone you miss: my brother.

*Highs and lows of this year:

Position in miLounge: fashion writer
*Contact details: miss.sao.creations@gmail.com

Get to know the milounge reps - Anita (MissMilounge)

2011-05-22T16:35:00.000-07:00

I am a fashion and beauty columnist for Milounge, Head editor, Admin Exec. and Secretary. Working with Milounge has allowed me realise my ability, I have met wonderful, ambitious, talented and skilled people and I have definitely made a lasting friendship with my MiloungeFam. If not for Milounge, great decisions I have made, of which has affected me positively would not have taken place.
MissMilounge x

Name: Anita Adetola Adetoye

Age: A tender 19! It’s my birthday on the 17th of September, get my presents and monies ready.

Current relationship status: In a relationship

Interesting facts about yourself: I can do a lot of things with my hand and voice.

Plans for the future: To run my own media empire, I want to earn the title ‘Strong Influential Nigerian Female’. Forbes babyyyy!

Ever been in love: umm, YES

Your views on religion: God is Love, I don’t enjoy people forcing their beliefs down my throat, it wouldn’t change what I believe. We are all serving the same God, the important thing is to live right and treat others the way you would want to be treated.

Your views on drugs and alcohol: Do not drink in excess, I detest drugs! But there are so many people we love that are into it, it has suddenly become so casual.

Have you ever thought about committing suicide: NEVER, I haven’t achieved my life goals, haven’t made money, marriage and kids. If you commit suicide, 100% certain u have a boys quarter in hell but if you wait till God’s time, is a 50/50 between Heaven & Hell.

Your favourite songs of all time: I don’t have an all-time favourite song you know, but right now, I have Rihanna – Man Down on repeat.

Your views on sex before marriage: All I will say is, when I want to purchase a car, I would test drive it before I purchase… SNM J

Your typical day: Wake up, check my BB, brush, bath, send some emails, eat, Uni (ping during class) lol, eat, articles, emails, promo, tweet all through the day… skype, eat, tweet, ping-sleep, then doze into another world.

Dream holiday: A romantic get away with a loved one… Hawaii? Cyprus?? JAMAiCA?!

Earliest memory: 1st time I tried to make Eba, I was around 7yrs old. I used cold water, placed my pot on an unlit cooker and stirred and stirred and stirred and stirred for about 30minutes lol You know how that ended!

How important is education: Did you know in this life we talk and listen more than we read and write. Education isn’t a key to achieving great things in life but if we look at it from the point of view of what people in the professional world look at, they want individuals with their qualifications writing on paper, not caring how its been achieved. So I guess education is important.

Favourite shows: My Wife and Kids, that show had me laughing haaard!! I miss watching it, they’ve stopped filming and don’t watch TV again L.

Which celebrities in the world do you find attractive: Chris Attoh, meeen that is some fine Ghanaian brodaaaah!

Favourite movie: The stage version of ‘Madea’s big happy family’… Could not stop crying!

Someone who fascinates you: Don’t have a particular person, but people who fascinate me are young successful people. Young people controlling big things! Ya get meee! Boss status young individuals.

What kind of person attracts you: Ambitious individual

A problem you have had: My right leg does not like the cold L it hurts bed in cold conditions, am I weird? Lol

Something/someone you miss: L Biola…

Highs and lows of this year: I believe that in life, if you have lived rightly, there are no lows, every day is a blessing and everyday gets better. My highs; meeting wonderful influential people and taking the bold step of realizing my dream and putting it into action.

Contact details:
anita.a.aadetoye@gmail.com
http://goldstingsinc.blogspot.com
www.facebook.com/laydeeedee
www.twitter.com/laydeeedee
Skype: laydeeedee

JOSHBEATS NEW WALLPAPER BY ANITA (GOLD STRINGS INC.)

2011-05-20T08:59:00.000-07:00

Download your very own JOSHBEATS wallpaper people:
http://www.4shared.com/photo/1g6uCex-/Joshbeatz_Design__ForTheLadies.html

Made by our very own MissMilounge, ANITA. More info on her new company Gold Strings Inc. coming soon. This is her 1st "official" graphics design, she's done other ones but they haven't been promoted yet.Watch this space. Praaaaaaaaaaaa!!!!!!!

Follow:
@joshbeats
@laydeeedee

SEXY NEW FREESTYLE BY TU-BURNA

2011-05-16T13:08:00.000-07:00

According to Tuburna, "Things you do" is a freestyle for the sexy ladies and for the real guys doing their thing right. He was inspired after listening to "Tease me by Wizkid and decided to "bump into d booth". Dr Jazz gave him the beat and after listening to it, he decided to drop the bars as they came through. I have to say this is a jamm that defo gets you on yo feet maynee, dance yo sorrows away type tins plus dapo is a very fine boi no dullin tinz. So rape that DL button, share and leave comments.

Download it mayne its a tuunnneee....... "If ur not sexy koshiii" POWWWWWWW!!!!!!

http://www.4shared.com/audio/nGeE6t91/TU-BURNA_THINGS_YOU_DO-freesty.html

Follow on twitter:

@dapo_tuburna

@team_topnotch

Get to know the milounge reps - Msjizie

2011-05-11T06:23:00.000-07:00

Name: I am Ejiro Mariam Jane Umusu also known as Msjizie

Milounge: I write articles for Eardrumz magazine and still developing my music career.

Age: born in 1992 so I am..(Do The Math)

Current relationship status: single and I'm searching oh ..lool

Interesting facts about yourself: ermm.. I rap ;)

Plans for the future : hmM.. Have my own Record label and Tv show

Ever been in love: of Course....plenty times

Your views on religion: we serve the Same God in different ways!

Your views on drugs and alcohol: if u do Drugs You are a 'Retard' ... Well alcohol... Hehe ... Ask me when you see Me in a club

Have you ever thought about committing suicide: NO !! For What?

Your favourite songs of all time: Dilemma - Nelly and Kelly cause that's the First Song I learnt its Rap Lyrics

Your views on sex before marriage: Its Your life LIVE IT (play safe)

Your typical day: wake up Pray Bath Classes SLEEP! Gist SLEEP!

Dream holiday: 3weeks in Paris with the One I Love

Earliest memory: my first time on a train in kaduna that was in 1998

How important is education: Very important.. No School No husband ...Lmao

Favourite shows: none ... They are all waste of time

Which celebrities in the world do you find attractive: ...ssssshhh.... JESSE JAGS and BOW WOW.... *sigh*

Favourite movie: like I said Earlier ....None

Someone who fascinates you: EVA!!!! That Lady makes me Wonder.......

What kind of person attracts you: Fine , Funny and Smart

A problem you have had: MAD! Mood swings.... It chases my friends away *sad*

Something/someone you miss: My Ex.. Wish things went Well! *OH Well*

Highs and lows of this year: my Rap skills have improved ... No Lows Yet!

Contact details: you can reach me on..... 070.....NAH!!! ...Pin:210000 heheh.... Twitter @Ms_Jizie Facebook : Ejiro Mariam jane Umusu... Holla @ ur Girl ;)

WHITE AMERICAN GIRL GOES TO NIGERIA TO LEARN YORUBA

2011-05-10T10:27:00.000-07:00

So this girl learnt Yoruba at the University of Wisconsin, now she is in Nigeria at the University of Ibadan perfecting her skills. She uploads videos of her experience every now and then. Her real name is Cara Harshman. Her Nigerian name is Titilayo.
I think this girl is absolutely amazing. She speaks proper "IJINLE" Yoruba as in. Its a little embarrassing that most Nigerians can't even speak as well as she does (forget her American accent). These days we mix our languages with English, slang, etc. I implore everyone to take a look at this, subscribe to her on youtube, watch her other videos, etc. I'm sure you will be as amazed as I was.
Nigerians please take pride in your language ohh!!!!

Get to know the milounge reps - TECHSAVVY

2011-05-07T10:06:00.001-07:00

Name: TECHSAVVY

Milounge: Presently I am a member of the editorial team and a member of the IT team. I have achieved consistency in delivering content for my web & IT lifestyle column. I have collaborated with team members and have become a team player who is always willing to share ideas and IT information to build the further Milounge brand.

Age: 30

Current relationship status: Married

Interesting facts about yourself: I’ve been married for 5 years

Plans for the future: To be rich, powerful and influential in ICT in africa.

Ever been in love: yes

Your views on religion: James 1: 26-27

Your views on drugs and alcohol: cool, but not in excess quantities at a time and beyond what you can handle. Against addiction of every form. Besides, everything has its time and its place.

Have you ever thought about committing suicide: no

Your views on sex before marriage: it MATTERS who you have sex with.

Your typical day: prayer, breakfast, work, late lunch, hang out, relax, retire, prayer, read or sleep.

How important is education: SELF-education is very important. It puts you ahead always.

Which celebrities in the world do you find attractive: Alicia keyes

Favourite movie: I remember the titans-denzel washington

Someone who fascinates you: Pastor Chris Oyakhilome: for a man who grew up in Nigeria, he amazingly overcame and subdued his world with his convictions from a kid.

What kind of person attracts you: a person who can look at me, commit to me and tell me “I love you and I believe in you regardless of your shortcomings” just like what God did to me through and in Jesus Christ.

Something/someone you miss: my childhood days when I wasn’t so busy and responsible for a lot/my wife…(we don’t live in the same city.)

Highs and lows of this year: highs: miloungetv, mobitronix, techsavvy, and some beautiful projects that came my way..

Contact details:
TECHSAVVY
House 3, J2 Building
Road 3, Victoria Garden City
Lekki, Lagos.
+2347066260861
BBM: 20DC5634
Twitter: @techsavvyng
Facebook: TechSAVVY

CATERING SERVICE IN NIGERIA

2011-05-05T18:23:00.000-07:00

For all your catering needs contact Tonitees catering. We work around your budget. We are very mobile which means we can go anywhere around the shores of Nigeria. We provide you with quality food made by quality caterers. If you don't want the hastle of planning your own event leave it all to us and we'll do that for you. We will provide the ushers to serve your food and clean equipments. Give us a call today and we'll give you a quote, you won't regret it.

Like our page on facebbok
https://www.facebook.com/pages/Tonitees-Catering/188419571202715

DOWNLOAD "THE ECLIPSE" MIXTAPE BY CHEDDAZ

2011-05-05T17:37:00.000-07:00

We Taking Over(intro)
I wanna Talk right now
Swag on(Prod.Xblaze)

Im Ill
Kids
Put It On A Track

INTERVIEW WITH NAIRA FOR MILOUNGETV'S EARDRUMZ MAGAZINE

2011-05-05T17:00:00.000-07:00

DOWNLOAD THESE SONGS BY NAIRA
Fly Hustle Fresh Grind | Hey Love | See Me See Trouble

ARTIST SUMMARY

NAIRA
A Music Legend in the Making

Inspired by her upbringing, influences, experiences, and life at large; recording artist, performer, and vocalist NAIRA weaves a well fitting pattern of love, pain, strength, and energy into one powerful punch with her individualistic style of music. Naira pens the term for the music that she creates as “Urban-Soul”; pulling from influences of soul, funk, blues, afro-pop, reggae, and r&b along with the youthful, free, and edgy energy of hip-hop. In essence, her creation is a blend that has never quite been touched before. She is the pulse of everything urban; everything current. Just as noted for her lyrical abilities in the rap world as her sweet vocals in the singing arena… Naira has become a seasoned veteran although she is relatively new and developing in the industry. Honing her skills on and off the mic, behind and in front of the camera. This exploration of her creativity landed her first lead role in the feature film “Pathways”, directing music videos and short films as well as song placements on different film soundtracks (see IMDB)
Being a 6 time Nigerian Entertainment Award nominee has far from stopped NAIRA from reaching for higher heights. As a songwriter and international performer, collaborative efforts and shared stages with the likes of 2Face Idibia, Jovan Dais, Gripplyaz, Raskimono, Richelle L. Brown, Mama’s Mustache, Riz, Stacy Epps, Banky W, Naeto C, Mojo Swagger, Rasheedah, Cy Marshall Law, Rasun and countless others are part of her repertoire.

Radio mogul and industry pioneer Jerry Boulding affirms that with her forte she produces nothing short of “compelling songs and infectious hooks”.

Her gifts have garnered her airplay on some of the world’s biggest radio stations both mainstream and underground airwaves as well as being seen on MTV, MTV BASEAFRICA, AIT, Nigezie (Nigeria/London) and other television networks. Having sold several thousand copies of her previous projects, the heartfelt tribute album dedicated to the artist’s late mother “On My Angel’s Wings” rejuvenated her passion for life & music. Now the world patiently awaits more from NAIRA as she makes her grand re-entry with the album "FEARLESS: The Art of Letting Go" featuring singles “OverDrive” and “Fly Hustle, Fresh Grind”.

With a tremendous source of pride for her heritage, the multi-talented artist coins the name in the acronym
N.A.I.R.A

NIGERIAN AMERICAN I REPRESENT AFRICA.

INTERVIEW BY MILOUNGETV

Seven time NEA award nominee Naira is set to take the Nigerian music scene by storm with her new album “Fearless” which includes tracks like “Fly hustle fresh grind” and “See me see trouble”. She is a very versatile artist as she not only sings/raps/writes, she also directs music videos. She is also quite an interesting character.

Miloungetv:Who is Naira?
Naira:Naira is a recording artist/songwriter/cinematographer.

Miloungetv:Tell us about your education.
Naira:Graduate with a BSRRT degree.

Miloungetv:What is a BSRRT degree?
Naira:Bachelors of Science with concentration in Respiratory Therapy.

Miloungetv:How did you come up with the name “Naira”?
Naira: NAIRA is an acronym (Nigerian-American I Represent Africa). I wanted a name that not only had a nice ring to it, but one that held a deeper meaning than the obvious face value, something that highlighted who I was and what has influenced me.

Miloungetv:Tell us about your journey in the music industry.
Naira: Something I say often is, nothing in life is without a challenge and because of that I press forward despite any and all adversities. When you love something so much you put your heart and soul into making it successful. I love music! I started when I was young writing poetry and after my first performance I began my journey with music. My new album “FEARLESS: The Art of Letting Go” is my 3rd studio album and I have released 8 mixcds and counting. In the last 2 years, I began shooting and directing music videos, short films, and brand campaign material for different companies.

Miloungetv:Do you have full support from your family?
Naira: Today I can now boast that my family is 100% in support of Team NAIRA! It is a blessing to have your loved ones rooting for you to win and they’re to comfort when things get a bit tough. I am truly blessed!

Miloungetv:You mentioned that your family is "now" in support of your career. How about before?
Naira:They fought tooth and nail my wanting to pursue music. As a woman as well as an African the idea of one's child pursuing music equated destructive behaviour (i.e. drugs, lewd or provocativeness and outright disgrace to the family's name). Alot of people think artists are uneducated, good for nothing drug addicts whose lives are meaningless. It takes more than talent to make it in the music industry; it is a business not an open mic showcase. Therefore, I approach it with that mindset. Nothing worth having is not worth fighting for! I believe that I can live comfortably by putting my passion for music to work for me and now they believe me. A blessing indeed!

Miloungetv:Describe your genre of music.
Naira: I’m a moody artist; a genre-bender. As a result, the genre I classify myself under is urban-soul. I am a fusion of everything current and urban. A blend of afropop, hip-hop, r&b, soul, and really anything dope that inspires me to create.

Miloungetv:Why would you describe yourself as a moody artist?
Naira: Moody because the type of music I create depends on the mood I'm in. I enjoy so many types of music it opens the floodgates for creativity and experimentation and that is what people hear when listening to my work. Sometimes I'm fun-loving and energetic other times I'm relaxed or introspective. It all depends on my "mood" and where I'm drawing inspiration from.

Miloungetv:Why music?
Naira: I have a passion for music, literature, business and basically everything fine arts. So, the real question is why not? (Big smile).

Miloungetv:Have you ever been to Nigeria?
Naira: Yes

Miloungetv:Would you ever go back to live in Nigeria?
Naira:Yes, I do plan on moving back to Nigeria one day. That is the beauty of being Nigerian after all; Being able to go to a land that I can call my own, where my people are known not by their first names but by their last names, where I don't have to explain why I call my mom's best friend and anyone older than me "aunty" and most of all where I can be free and need no explanation to be who I am.

Miloungetv:Would you say you were more Nigerian or American?
Naira: I am the duality of both cultures. Although, my friends and family swear up and down that I’m more Naija.

Miloungetv:What do you think about the Nigerian music industry?
Naira: It is growing. The kind of growth and maturity I’m talking about will come only with an infrastructure properly setup to support the current demand for amazing African artistry; One where artists, producers, record labels, management and all other entities are properly functioning and compensated.

Miloungetv:Tell us about the awards you have won so far.
Naira: I haven’t taken home an award just yet, but have been nominated for several; 7 nominations from NEA, 4 nominations NPA Awards and SubUrban Underground TV’s Artist of the year.

Miloungetv:Are you into Nigerian movies?
Naira: Oh yes! I love love love Nigerian movies!

Miloungetv:Which ones have you seen lately?
Naira: Blackberry Babes and Private Storm.

Miloungetv:What are your takes on the movie "blackberry babes"?
Naira:Outlandishly funny yet somewhattrue portrayal of how some girls behave. (Shakes head) technology.

Miloungetv:Have you performed with any Nigerian artistes?
Naira: A lot maybe too many to name; Ayefele, 2Face, El Dee, Naeto C, Raskimono, Banky W, Godwon, Kelly Handsome, RIZ, and more.

Miloungetv:Who will you like to perform with in the future?
Naira: To start off: Sade, Asa, Femi Kuti, Sergio Mendes, Tosin Aribisala and Angelique Kidjo.

Miloungetv:What is your most memorable performance?
Naira: It would have to be the release party for "On My Angel's Wings". It was my first performance after a 2 year hiatus where I lost my mom and just quit everything music. It was almost magical how it all went, from the other featured performers to the feeling I got when I was on stage. You’ve got to love a dope crowd too! They were amazing and very involved. Bliss! The Nigerian Entertainment Awards show 2006 by far sticks out as one of my largest scale performances.

Miloungetv:Who are your influences?
Naira: I’m easily inspired so really everything inspires and influences me. I’m very passionate about life, politics, pain, hope, cultural improvement etc…

Miloungetv:What is the message in your music?
Naira: No matter the tempo, Love and Perseverance are weaved into my music.

Miloungetv:Do you write your own lyrics?
Naira: Yes

Miloungetv:Are you in love?
Naira: Yes

Miloungetv:Who are you in love with?
Naira: MUSIC and although I've tried over and over to get over this love affair, I have been unsuccessful!

Miloungetv:Are you a religious person?
Naira: Yes, but more spiritual. I aim to maintain a close relationship with God. Religion was made by a man, but in my opinion the spirit of the Almighty cannot be contained, altered or manipulated.

Miloungetv:Are you signed to any record label?
Naira: Yes and no (Avant-Garde Exchange).

Miloungetv:Why yes and no? What does this mean?
Naira:Avant-Garde Exchange is the company I'm currently affiliated with and they handle management and music publishing endeavours as well as marketing. Over the last 2 years, I've been approached by several different labels but haven't yet found "the one" where my work and I can call home. I'm looking for a label that is willing to invest in my brand (i.e. marketing and promotion), has adequate knowledge of the business, and not only believes in me but understands how to market my form of artistry.

Miloungetv:Do you speak any languages?
Naira: Yoruba, Spanish, and English of course.

Miloungetv:How did you learn Spanish?
Naira:I learned to speak Spanish while growing up in Miami and continued learning in grade school.

Miloungetv:Of all your songs, which is your favorite?
Naira: That is impossible to answer! I love them all in a very different ways.

Miloungetv:Have you any favorites in the Nigerian music industry?
Naira: I enjoy listening to everybody old and new school.

Miloungetv:What would you say was your favorite song as a child?
Naira: Peperempe!

Miloungetv: What keeps you going?
Naira: The quest to find the purpose God gave me to achieve and my family.

Miloungetv:Where do you see yourself in the future?
Naira: Winning! (Laughs) ok ok on a serious note, my plans are simple. I want to create the opportunity where my constituents and I can create and exchange creativity (various forms: music, film, fashion, art etc) with the world, a global platform in a sense. We can speak and be heard, speak and create change…

“FEARLESS: The Art of Letting Go”, new album by Naira out summer 2011.

I am naira links:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=X915_-3_vTY

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lmrG2ry3WdY

http://www.youtube.com/theNAIRAexperience

http://www.iamnaira.com

http://www.naira.bandcamp.com

Diary of a young quirky soul

2011-05-05T16:35:00.000-07:00

Entry 1- Beginning
I hate packing! More than that, I hate packing for school! Even more than that, I hate school! But I have to pack as I'm heading to school in a bit and this time I cried as I packed simply because I choose the wrong Paramore (the awesome rock band) song to listen to. I wanted to listen to Careful or Ignorance but accidentally chose The Only Exception, and so the tears came pouring down. Heaven knows I should just have skipped the track but I guess I needed to cry it all out. I'm not a cry baby or an overly emotional person but you see, I ended a relationship only just yesterday & I hadn't really come to terms with it. I just took the step & carried on with other stuff. So as I listened, the feelings of sadness crept over me. I know I'll be fine in some time but between now & 'some time', I wonder how I'll cope.

I've read up on how to deal with break ups & just like I expected, there isn't one sure fire way to deal with them which just makes life a lot harder for those of us who are clueless. The thing that hurts me the most about this break up is the realization of how much of my true self I had lost in the course of it. Has that ever happened to you? I knew 'we' had changed, the fights became a constant & they were about the silliest things. I became less happy & a lot more angry, a sharp contrast from the person I used to be in d early days of our relationship. In the months leading up to yesterday, we fought the inevitable break up, we'd fall off the love horse only to get back up & try to tread further on the love lane. I'm usually wiser, I always know when to just let go but I didn't. I just kept fighting & trying. I finally accepted all the things that had been wrong from the get-go; the lies, manipulation which I had chosen to ignore and called it quits cos I believe I deserve better. I KNOW it'll be hard but these feelings of pain & loss will eventually pass...a girl's gotta stay positive jare.

So off to school I go, let's hope I can stay this positive when I get there *sigh*. L8rz pple.

Panda.

Coup d’Tweet: Can social media overthrow a government? By: Pius Paul

2011-05-05T16:21:00.000-07:00

As the anti-government protests continue to grip Egypt and the call for an end to President Hosni Mubarak‘s 30 year regime gets louder, the rest of the world watched in amazement as the government’s security forces systematically began taking down all forms of telecommunication and online social media, bringing the country’s internet to a complete standstill

.After blocking Twitter on Tuesday 25th Jan and Facebook and Google on Wednesday 26th Jan, the government then further enforced a complete shutdown of all internet sites and services providers including SMS and the ever popular Blackberry messenger services.
Reports from news network Al Jazeera show that their live feed channel has been disconnected.

Still, some information is trickling through: @jonjensen tweets: “I am in Cairo, Egypt. Update: most internet currently down, mobile phones down, 3G network down. #Jan25″ and @AhmedShalaby: “Google, twitter, Facebook, blackberry service All Blocked Now in #Egypt! #Jan25″ with Doctor Mohamed ElBaradei, the main leader of the opposition currently trending on Twitter (Update from Twitter: ElBaradei is currently under siege in a Mosque in Cairo after being forced to remain there following his Friday prayers).

Solidarity protests were pouring in from countries and cities around the world including Turkey, Jeddah in Saudi Arabia and elsewhere with the majority of the population calling for change.
But amid all the confusion, protests, violence and enormity of the situation, one important, undeniable and inevitably game-changing fact has reshaped the way we view social media‘s influence on Governments. Clearly, in conjunction with the overthrow of President Tunisia earlier this month – which has been somewhat boldly hailed as the world’s first real Twitter revolution, China’s Social Sciences Academy suggesting that social media big-wigs Facebook and Twitter were used to destabilize the government and subsequently called for a censorship and ban of social media in July last year.

Seen in conjunction with the protests in Iran as well as the ANC Youth League’s calls for Twitter’s closure and the ever controversial Protection of Information Bill, undoubtedly one discernible question needs to be raised: Can social media overthrow governments?

Now, while the image of a pro-democratic protester, armed with naught but his Blackberry Torch and retweeting insults back-and-forth while armed security services stand by with a dazed and confused expression may not be the image I hoped to bring to mind, governments around the world are undeniably under considerable pressure from social media.
Yet, is it enough to be called a revolution?

Intrepid blogger and founder of Global Voices Online, Ethan Zuckerman, says that while social media can take some credit, it can’t quite bask in the glory of it just yet. Zuckerman continues, saying that while it may have played a significant role in the events that unfolded in Tunisia earlier this month, it is unlikely that a reaction to a WikiLeaks cable, Tweet, Facebook status update or denial-of-service attack could be directly responsible for a complete revolution when decades of the public’s frustration with the government was the more likely answer.

The same can be said with the current situation in Egypt. Social media activism, which may have received negative criticism in the past as being nothing more than false consciousness and having little to do with real activism, may just have found its way into the political limelight. Could it be that we may yet someday soon see a social media activist’s Twitter or Facebook account contending for a Nobel Peace Laureate position?
While the idea may seem absurdly pretentious, the fact of the matter is simply this: Deep within the human subconscious is a pervasive need to discern the truth.

As to whether social media could directly be held responsible for overthrowing governments, the answer is both no and yes. No, because people, not computers stage revolutionary rallies and protests and people, not computers get shot with rubber bullets and teargas canisters. Inevitably, if the seed for a revolution has been sown, it will occur independent of Facebook or Twitter.

And yes, as an information-distribution medium, as a pressure point for governments under fire by the populace and as source for driving opinions-based reporting on a very real level, social media, can influence (although not overthrow) governments.

While living in Nigeria and watching this social media drama unfold, it gives me a renewed hope for a change in the system of Electoral choices and the rule of democracy which has been abducted by some very powerful individuals who seemingly control the system to turn the tides whichever way they choose. Their days are numbered. We are plugged in, tweeting, updating and speaking our minds. We must be heard!
This is one undeniable, irrefutable aspect of our humanity. Social media, which encompasses the lives of millions of individuals – from the eagerly followed celebrities, to the business folk who have adapted to a new era of a digital cyber sphere, to the everyday user – all of us, are either directly influencing or being influenced by the glorious cacophony of tweets, updates, pokes and shouts. And this, in itself, is indeed revolutionary.

Spying on your partner... Is it OK? By: Zinhle Thusi

2011-05-05T15:44:00.000-07:00

We've all had suspicions about our partners loyalty towards us, whether they are faithful or not, and trust me, insecurities are bound to creep up whether you are male or female. Sometimes, it may not be because we don't trust them but rather for the sake of curiosity. Would this reason be considered normal in your partner’s eyes and is it okay? Relationship is a lot of hard work and it takes a lot for you to give yourself whole heartedly in one. You definitely need to be sure about yourself and your partner’s priorities and with today's world surrounded by technological advancements like; the cell phones and social networking, it makes it easy for people to cheat.

Habitually it is common that when two people love each other, they should share everything -their hearts, their bodies, and their souls- If this mutual love and willingness to be committed to each other is existent, then you should know your partners friends, family, share hobbies together and maybe at some point in your lives move in together, but this doesn’t mean that you both will see eye to eye in everything, not even twins are like that, there will be some, if not, A LOT of differences, you will want your personal space or privacy, and this for some people would include their emails and their phones; whether it be facebook, blackberry messenger, twitter etc but where do you draw the line?......

Snooping is a very bad habit which starts because of poor communication and trust in a relationship, “it would be considered OKAY to snoop in your partners business if their had been problems like infidelity to the past" says a source, but it would be best if you build an open relationship by sharing your views about things your partner finds private and personal- it creates that bond, allowing for an open and honest relationship, “it would also be advisable to have each other’s PIN (blackberry) as well, that way it wouldn't give you or your partner the idea of even going behind each others back and snooping around”.
Trust should always play a pivotal role in every relationship. Even though you may trust each other, your snooping around might raise a lot of questions in your partner, instead, keep the open communication flowing and be open with everything, that way your relationship will benefit you more than it would when snooping or just keeping quiet.

MAN LAWS Part 2 By: David Amodu

2011-05-05T15:26:00.000-07:00

This is a follow-up to my last edition on man laws;
As said in the previous edition, man laws are rules or a code of conduct for men.
There are certain things we are expected to do as "men" and certain things we shouldn’t be caught dead doing (like singing along to Rihanna's "only girl in the world" or sipping a bottle of beer with a straw), but in these metro-sexual times, the lines are getting increasingly blurry. This article is inspired by the Miller Lite’s "Man Law" ads.

Under no circumstances should you ever hit a woman, and because I am aware that there are some Jezebels out there with more than a few screws loose, if a woman attacks you unprovoked with the aim to cause you serious bodily harm, you can do one or a combination of the following things (a) put her to sleep by touching a nerve on her wrist or arm (if you know kung fu) (b)pour a drink over her head and head for the door as quickly as you can and as non- chalantly as you can while yelling out all the reasons why she shouldn’t mess with you (c)rip her clothes off *Kanye shrug*... at least the ass-whooping would be worth it or (d) run.

(addendum: Please note: spanking of a woman's posterior is permissible if done on request)

The morning after you and a girl, who was formerly "just a friend”, go at it, the fact that you are feeling weird and guilty should not stop you from jumping on her again before discussing what a big mistake it was.
Do Not Lie About the Size of Your Weiner. because you see with women, when you lie to her, you are lying on behalf of all men, so when she finds out that you lied (because she will if your plan is successful) every other man now becomes a liar, furthermore, she may not say anything about it right away, but the minute things go awry, please believe she's going to tell you how she really feels about your "lil guy"... and with some women... not only will the neighbours (and her friends) know your name, they will also know by how many inches you fell short of expectation.
There is no reason for a man to skype (video-call) another man, unless its business related, family or you heard rumors that he was dead.
A urinal is not the place to strike up a conversation, and there should be at least one empty urinal space between you and the next man.
A man is only allowed to scream if electrocuted, bitten by a large snake or mauled by a large wild animal… and even in such cases he is only allowed to scream once.
There are only 4 situations in which a man is allowed to cry (a) when/if his mum or any other beloved family member dies (b) when/if hit in the genitals with anything moving above the speed of 10mph (c) when/if his date is using her teeth (d) when/if Megan Fox and or Meagan Good get(s) married
No man should talk on the phone to a girl longer than he will make the sex with her.
Never join your girlfriend in talking bad about a friend of yours... unless she is withholding sex, pending your response.
When passing another man in tight situations where contact is inevitable, front to front or back to back contact is best where side to side is not an option is, furthermore there must.
As much as possible, you must always come to the aid of a damsel in distress, be it car trouble or whatever...and if you see a woman being assaulted you must intervene, you are also allowed to take the assaulter with or without his permission somewhere dark and quiet (with 1 or 2 or 3 or 4 of your friends depending on the size and perceived strength of the individual in question) to show him how to fight with real men.

NOTE: If the individual is a boxer or UFC fighter, please give him a stern talking to and call the police.

That’s all from me. Till next edition, please remain a man.

CANCER MARKERS by Towsyn Omowole

2011-05-05T15:16:00.000-07:00

Tumour markers are substances that can be found in the body, usually in the blood or urine when cancer is present.
Cancer-specific markers are related to the presence of certain cancerous tissue. They might not be specific in making a diagnosis because of the wide range of markers in the market but they can be useful in a follow-up of treated patients to describe progress of the disease or response to treatment. For example, CEA (CarcinoEmbryonic Antigen) was thought to have been produced by tumours of the gastrointestinal system at first but it was later found out that it was produced by the occasional lung or breast cancer case.
Common types of cancer include:

Colorectal cancer a.k.a. colon cancer or large bowel cancer {growths in rectum, colon and appendix}.
Myeloma {a malignant tumour of the bone marrow}.
Melanoma {most dangerous type of skin cancer, leading case of death from skin disease. Involves cells called melanocytes, which produce a skin pigment called melanin (responsible for skin and hair colour). Melanoma can also involve the coloured part of the eye}.
Lung cancer.
Breast cancer.
Leukemia {cancer of the blood}.
Prostate cancer {Cancer that forms in tissues of the prostate (a gland in the male reproductive system found below the bladder and in front of the rectum). Prostate cancer usually occurs in older men}.

ETC….
Carcinogens are those factors which can lead to cancer. For example, overexposure to the sun could cause melanoma and tobacco could cause lung cancer. Other factors include age, genetic makeup, immune system, weight, diet, physical activity and environment.