Emmanuel Jal

Written by Awo Sarpong Ansu | June 10, 2008 | Leave a Comment

Believing that being identified with the “thug life” will give them street cred and help them sell cds, some musicians and rappers hit you over the head with images of violence, greed, and misogyny. And when confronted about the themes in their music, some musicians will try to avoid responsibility by claiming that they are just “keepin’ it real”. But sometimes the music is not very real, but a marketing ploy by artists desperate to sell records. Some have gone so far as to invent criminal histories - not naming any names, just saying that it happens.

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Tags: , african music, Emmanuel Jal

Passport to Africa: Your Itinerary Awaits

Interview by Shirlene Alusa-Brown | May 23, 2008 | Leave a Comment

Africa is a dynamic continent with diverse peoples, rhythms, vibrant activity, sensual spices and an immensely rich culture. IDOA Entertainment is dedicated to sharing and highlighting the best parts of Africa with the Diaspora and they have succeeded in providing this experience through their highly successful event ‘Passport To Africa‘! Passport To Africa is a week long journey through the things that make Africa special. One gets to experience the culture of various African countries through their food, art, poetry, fashion, and music. » Read more…

Tags: , african embassies, African Fourplay, african highlife, african music, african student associations, bcbg productions, Calypso, DC Office of African Affairs, High Life, I dream of Africa entertainment, IDOA, jamati, jollof rice, mayor adrian fenty, Osei the dark secret, passport to africa, seward b. cooper, Soukous, south african wine tasting, ultra white party, WKYS, Zouk

Kora Awards will Revive Themselves in Nigeria

Written by Shirlene Alusa-Brown | March 26, 2008 | Leave a Comment

The Kora Awards took a 2 year hiatus to deal with logistical issues and other problems that had been impeding its success. A hue-and-cry ensued when it was suggested that the awards be done away altogether, as these awards are seen as a chance for Africans to vote for the artists that they feel most represent them and their musical culture. 50 Cent and Awilo Longomba are expected to perform at the awards this year. » Read more…

Tags: , african artists, african music, Kora Awards, Music awards, Nigeria

The Rise and Rise of Samini

Written by Ameyaw Debrah | March 19, 2008 | Leave a Comment

Samini without a doubt is one of the most consummate young African artists of our time. His refined tone and dashing looks have won him the hearts of many ladies across the continent. This has propelled his brand of dancehall rhythms infused with African beats to amazing heights and resulted in recognition across the globe. At the age of 26, he has won several Ghana Music Awards, a MOBO award for Best African Act in 2006, and at the just ended Hip Hop World Award, he clinched the award for Best African Artist. He is currently the music icon for MTN, the leading telecommunications company in Africa and the Middle East.

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Tags: , , african music, batman samini, hip hop world award, Nigeria