Showing posts with label D'banj. Show all posts
Showing posts with label D'banj. Show all posts
HOW DON JAZZY SIGNED TIWA SAVAGE
The Mo’hits era is over and all parties involved are finally moving on.
We’ve seen D’banj remove himself from all things Mo’Hits, relocating overseas and signing a fresh recording deal with Mecury Records/G.O.O.D Music.
For several weeks now, questions have been asked about Don Jazzy’s future plans and if he will still hoist and fly the Mo’Hits flag with his loyal label mates .
Michael Collins, the revered sprung up a surprise last midnight, announcing a new record label and signing on the hottest female R&B act in the country!
Just this morning, Don Jazzy announced the signing of R&B-Pop singer Tiwa Savage to his new record label Mavin Records, scooping her from her former deal with events-media boss Cecil Hammond who has in the last few years overseen the singer’s career under his Flytime Promotions umbrella.
The pop act who is working to release her debut album will now feature with the former Mo’Hits clan in a new album ‘Solar Plexus’ set to be released tomorrow May 8, 2012.
Contrary to what is being speculated, about Tiwa dumping Flytime from Mavin, Cecil Hammond tells us there are no issues, insisting he ’won’t say anything on the phone. Let’s schedule a meeting’.
However speaking with Mavin Records publicist Terfa Tilley-Gyado, he confirms that Tiwa has indeed been released by Cecil Hammond’s Flytime Promotions before signing unto MAVIN.
Mavin says Tiwa was signed two weeks ago after ending her contract with Flytime.
She had been in talks with Don Jazzy for several months, according to our investigations..
‘Yes she has been released from all contracts with Cecil’s Flytime and is now a full signee under MAVIN’, Tilley-Gyado told NET over the phone.
The status of Tiwa’s current manager Tunji ‘T Billz’ Balogun still remains uncertain as Mavin has hired a new management and PR company. Tilley-Gyado however says he cannot ascertain if Balogun will continue working with Tiwa.
‘I can’t say about that but she should retain her PR and Management team’.
All efforts to reach Tunji Balogun proved abortive as he did not pick his calls neither did he reply text messages sent to his phone.
Tiwa now joins the likes of Dr SID, D’Prince and Wande Coal who have steadily stuck behind the hit producer through the Mo’Hits saga and eventual split.
A comment on Twitter about the new development reads; This movie is gonna take a long time to play out. Don Jazzy does his own marketing. DBanj is gonna have to rely on the record company… Hmm’.
EXCLUSIVE: MO'HITS MANSION - TO LET OR LEASE?
The property, situated in Maryland, in Ikeja, Lagos, was the headquarters of all Mo’hits activities for years, and the holding place, for anyone that had anything serious to do with the label. But that is no longer so, as our reporters found out recently.
A NET reporter, who visited the Maryland property says both entrances have been locked, the premises looks unkempt, the building’s windows are wide open with no curtains, suggesting there have been no occupants for a while.
After hanging around there for over five hours, our reporter confirmed there was no movement in or around the premises. A security guard next to the building happily told NET that the Mo’Hits crew left the building about five months ago. ‘Na D’banj and Don Jazzy house before but dem no dey come here again since last year.’
Meanwhile, neighbours confirmed that there haven’t been any new faces around the building since the Mo’Hits crew left. Interestingly, there’s no advertisement showing the property is up for let or lease; but we could not immediately confirm if the label’s rent is still running or if they had bought over the property.
‘If their rent was not running, and they don’t own the property, trust me, the owners would have put it up for rent since’, an estate agent working around the area tells us. ‘This is a very private and high demand area, so I’m sure there’s a reason it’s just lying there’.
In late 2010, D’banj and Don Jazzy moved out of the Maryland duplex into their Lekki residence, leaving Dr SID and Wande Coal in the ‘Mo’hits mansion’. SID and Wande would later move into separate apartments in the popular 1004 complex in Victoria Island.
We’re told D’Prince has also moved into a Lekki apartment, with his parents who have just relocated from Ireland; while Kay Switch is in the US.
Following the Mo’Hits fiasco, Don Jazzy moved out of the Lekki home he shared with D’banj; settling for a duplex inside the super expensive NICON Estate, also in Lekki, Lagos. Insiders tell us D’banj now has control of their joint Lekki property, although he now spends most of his time in the US and UK where he’s working to break into the mainstream international scene.
"I WOULD BE HONOURED TO HAVE (MANCHESTER UNITED) PLAYERS DO MY 'OLIVER TWIST' DANCE" - D'BANJ TELLS SKY-SPORT
"I live in Nigeria and I've always been a Man United fan. In Nigeria, football is our thing. On Saturdays and Sundays, there's no traffic, you see people sitting down, everyone is in their house, watching a Premiership match or a Championship match.
My family are actually divided; we have Manchester United, which is me, then you have Arsenal fans and Chelsea fans. It's very interesting on match days, that's why every Saturday we're watching a game - either to support someone or to not support someone. Either way you're watching the match.
I was just saying a couple of weeks back, I was in the States and I saw a Tweet from Rio Ferdinand, saying he was a big fan. He's actually been to Nigeria and he said 'Oliver Twist', my single, was actually his favourite Afrobeat song. I was like, get on the phone to Sir Alex Ferguson, get me to that locker room and I'll perform it for him before he goes out for his next match.
It was so inspiring, because it's my first single coming out, and for Rio Ferdinand to say that, I know that's like me getting the stamp of approval. Tom Cleverley also gave props to 'Oliver Twist' on Twitter. I know he's injured so a speedy recovery to him.
I would be honoured to have players do my 'Oliver Twist' dance. I would actually come to the locker room - any one - and actually do it with them. I know Sir Alex Ferguson could do it, he needs to just move, move his shoulders. You don't have to be a professional dancer, you can even do it with the ball. That's the mission - get the players doing that."
EXCLUSIVE: 'I DIDN'T SCATTER MO'HITS' - DON JAZZY
Drama backed with claims, counter claims, responses, counter responses, exclusive interviews, exposing facts and leaked E-mails. And if you think the drama is over, you are hereby advised to grab a bowl of popcorn, snuggle up in your couch and keep watching, because from the looks of it, this isn’t ending soon.
If you’ve followed the Mo’Hits brouhaha – a la the ‘D’banj VS Don Jazzy messy fight’, you’ve either been entertained, amused or downright irritated. Nevertheless, the drama continues with both parties still not letting their guards down…
It’s been the same old story for most persons with the title ‘Don’ in the mafia movies – unparalleled rise to success, years of reign and respect but then an ultimate crash. Name it –
Godfather, Goodfellas, Scarface, Casino, Frank Lucas….it’s all the same. Is this the same fate of our beloved Don Jazzy?
Don Jazzy was hardly the fan favourite back then; sure, he was respected, but he wasn’t the one the fans clung to. He barely spoke, letting D’banj do all the talking (and gesticulating). Don Jazzy grew the persona of a real mafia don – you know, like the ones in Sicily that head the cartel, always feared and respected, known to bless careers with hits (songs) upon hits.
But when more and more money rolled in, D’banj somewhat alienated himself from the fans and media, leaving the ‘Don’ to take care of the multitude of fans. The once ‘shy guy’ became very vocal on micro-blogging site Twitter, often giving out airtime recharge cards, iPads and more gifts, even organizing an online music competition which trended on social networks for weeks.
Don Jazzy engaged the fans, positioned himself as an accessible celeb, and a media darling. He even went as far as granting radio and TV interviews, responding to E-mails, covering magazines and delivering acceptance speeches at award shows. Don Jazzy became more accessible; the one everybody could call on and be assured of prompt response. When the heat came upon both men during the ‘Occupy Nigeria’ period, Don Jazzy once again cried out to his people, dissociating himself from D’banj, who received brutal tongue lashings from Nigerians home and abroad for seemingly evading the issue.
But last week, the Don’s credibility was tested; his mystique torn apart, when D’banj, in an elaborate interview with NET, accused his former label partner of betraying him, leaving many of the producer’s loyal fans startled, and perhaps revising where they should stand in the
whole matter.
‘He said to me in July last year ‘Let’s scatter Mohits. He told me there are two captains – two captains cannot be in a ship. I was like ‘that’s not possible, this is a marriage‘, D’banj said in the interview, among other revealing things.
If it’s anything to go by, in just a few days, the article received over 70,000 views on NET’s website, with over 380 comments – most of them in support of D’banj.
Many are still asking valid questions about the break up; and of course, there are loads of Don Jazzy loyalists who remain steadfast.
So are D’banj’s fans back with him because the entertainer broke down his side of the story by opening up on the matter? Or is it because he’s gaining buzz in the UK and he seems to be flying the African flag proud, while Don Jazzy seems to be on a never-ending hiatus?
The questions are endless. Media analysts have exhausted their theories and everyone is waiting with bated breath to see how the saga will unfold.
A few days after the interview, former friend and music partner Abdul Rasheed Bello better known as JJC (Skillz) chastised D’banj after the latter stated that JJC cheated Don Jazzy. It got all messy again as JJC who sheltered the likes of Jazzy, D’banj, Kween and the 419 Squad under his Backbone Music label, opened another can of worms, claiming that the Koko Master (whom he described as the group’s jester) never really wrote his songs, and at a point, was wanted by the UK Police for credit card theft.
While JJC felt bitter and hurt, spilling the beans to Nigezie in a video interview, little did he know that the whole drama would end up on one of the US biggest hip-hop websites Allhiphop.com. The website soon published a flimsy article titled ‘G.O.O.D Music Artists D’banj and Don Jazzy At Odds With Each Other; D’banj Accused Of Credit Card Fraud!‘. More drama…
Ever since the famous interview, Jazzy has kept mute, refusing to grant interviews, and tweeting only thrice since then. But now the silence has been broken, albeit briefly, and the
Don has spoken…
In a very short but exclusive interview via Blackberry Messenger on April 22, Don Jazzy answers some very important questions and leaves many unanswered.
Did you leak the Mo’hits email?
No
Did you ask D’banj that you want to ‘scatter’ Mo’hits?
No
Have you signed any document relinquishing your shares in Koko holding, and giving D’banj his catalogue?
No
When was the last time you saw D’banj?
Not quite long
Will you still produce music for him, if he asks or not?
Yea
Why did you have to get a new apartment?
‘Pass’
Was D’banj ever told about the concluding part of the Samsung deal?
Why all these questions?
Bros, it’s a tough interview but it’s what our readers (and your fans) want to know.
Pass
Okay. Have you been producing music during the last few months? And who have you been working with in the studio?
‘Pass’
Dr SID and Wande Coal have continually shown their love and bond for you over everyone else; how do you feel about their respect for you?
I respect them also cos they are like my brothers
Will you start a fresh label in the nearest future or stick with the name Mo’Hits?
Pass
The producer vehemently refused to have a sit down with us, despite repeated requests (his response to an interview request via email: ‘I’m so sorry but I am definitely not open for interviews for now. Doubt I would be ready for one anytime soon too. Pls I would appreciate if you can understand..).
Those close to him say he’s ‘not really interested in saying anything’. One associate told us last week that the producer has been busy working, and may be blessing fans with new songs soon.
But the industry is getting tired of the drama. Not only tired – many are hoping the estranged friends (and the camps around them) will actually settle their differences and come back together.
Long-time D’Banj and Don Jazzy associate Weird MC‘s submission captures it all : ‘I still have hope that they will kiss and make up. I strongly feel that way‘, she told us in an interview last Wednesday.
It is possible.
DON JAZZY REPLIES D'BANJ'S INTERVIEW (HE IS A CLOWN BUT STILL MY SON) - DON JAZZY
The interview has seen many people have sympathy for D'Banj especially with some revelations made in the interview.
Responding to controversial interview in an exclusive telephone interview with Ascology News, Don Jazzy started off by saying he never wanted the issue to become this messy, even as he was aware of the way and manner social media has changed the way people view the issues surrounding the lives of celebrities; a reason he said was why he's always cautious of what he says and the interviews he grants to the media.
Both industry power-weights have been at loggerhead over alleged multiple financial disagreements, discrepancies involved in the signing of artist Dbanj into Kanye West’s Good Music record label, Don Jazzy’s lackadaisical attitude, Dbanj’s alleged public irresponsibility among other differences and conflicts that popped up between both.
"I want to be clear on something that I'm not interested in going into the debates of whatever Dbanj has said, be it through an interview, the press, social media or whatever.
People should try and understand that these are very difficult moments for me and I need my space, time and moment to carry on with my life and the production of good music which is what fans have known me for a very long time". Don Jazzy said.
The iconic producer, whose famous introvert and quiet lifestyle and personality as garnered him an enviable amount of fame, respect and magnanimous swag in Nigeria’s entertainment scene, staunchly dismissed claims by Dbanj buying houses, cars and properties for the Mo’hits boss and fellow artists, calling it “laughable and not worth responding to this early morning” claiming that quick thinking fans know his individual worth and personal financial worth of each artist at Mo’hits.
The Mo’hits boss was however very cautious and even more diplomatic in blaming, accusing or countering accusations attributed to Dbanj in various interviews, saying many of those things could not have been said by Dbanj and he isn't surprised when Dbanj claimed his accounts were hacked and also not further surprised when his (Dbanj) publicist released a statement denying some of the statements attributed to him; specifically during the interview with Ebony Magazine that Dbanj owns Mo’hits.
Incidentally, Ebony Magazine are yet to release a public apology as earlier released by D'banj's personal manager and the 'I own mohits' part of the interview still not excluded as of the time of filing this report.
The Mo’hits boss further said in the unlikely event he decides to let the public knows his own side of the story, there is the tendency for his statements to be misconstrued and manipulated by mischief makers who he blamed use few accurate information to manipulate the public into believing things that never existed (a hint that the alleged email exchange is partially true or totally untrue); an ironical situation he hinted would force him to rather keep mute on the issue and let it die a natural death.
"When this whole thing started, I felt people needed to know what’s happening and in all civility, maturity and wisdom, I made those less than 140 words tweet in 3 separate lines, now see where it has led me to.
Mohits is a family and Dbanj is like its son and families do quarell. Expecting me to come out and start countering accusations by one of my best friends ever while accusing him also in the process doesn't justify my guilt or my innocence or that of his, He (Dbanj) however has a right to his opinion to grant interviews to whoever he wishes to grant interview to.
I won't stop him and won’t stop anyone who wants to believe whatever he says either", he said.
In further attempts to get the Mo’hits boss talking, he was adamant but rightly so, reminding us of how those famous tweets confirming an apparent rift in the Mohits house got him into the messy situation as we see today.
“It is with a heavy heart that I announce the end of a long era and the beginning of a new one..Some of the rumours you have all heard recently are sad but true...The way forward now is to make sure I keep bringing you guys more of the beautiful music y’all love to dance to....And to end d old era I will b donating the proceeds of my production catalogue from day one till date to five charity organizations.
Thanks. IDJA”
"Really, if I start responding to every single accusation, then the ‘lazy’ person I’ve been called would come out, and the ‘Fake’ person I am according to critics would obviously come out since I'm not a talkative and you the media know that, I want the handwork of my music productions and the proceeds of good music at Mo’hits to speak for itself, so asking me to comment on issues like this, I really am not just interested, personally my advice to fans is to concentrate on good music from Mo’hits and huhh....well even from Dbanj himself, music is what we were made to create and not controversies", he added.
It was not immediately clear the positions of other artists at the Mohits house at the time of filing the report as label members Wande Coal, Dr Sid and D’Prince have all been short of economical with their opinions on the rift between their bosses.
As for Wande Coal who in an although diplomatic, yet paradoxically intended tweet to Dbanj said “God please don’t let the success you have given me get to my head to the extent that I will forget my humble beginnings”; the artist has however deleted the tweet shortly after another debatable scenario which Dbanj sarcastically accused Don Jazzy of personally tweeting.
The multi-award winning music producer however said he wishes artist, Dbanj all the best in all he aspires to do even as he (Don Jazzy) begins a rebuilding, restructuring process.
MO'HITS WAR: LAWYER CALLS FOR AMICABLE SETTLEMENT
In yet another correspondence exclusively obtained by E-Punch, the lawyer has advised both parties to sign over their stakes in their two major companies, Mo’Hits and Koko Holdings, so that each person would hold on to one.
The lawyer states, “In Consideration and Mutuality of D’Banj signing over to you (Don Jazzy) his entire stake in Mo’Hits Records Limited, you in return sign over to him your stake in Koko Holdings Limited, with the Catalogue now undifferentiated as between ‘D’Banj’ and ‘non-D’Banj’ sub-catalogues, (which is) in keeping with your express wishes. In view of recent events which are indeed surprising,
I think it is an optimal way forward. Before Mo’Hits imploded, the relationship between D’banj and Wande Coal, one of the artistes on the label, had been anything but cordial. The Mushin-bred singer was reportedly rude to D’banj at the height of the success of his debut album, leading to his being placed on suspension from releasing any song.
The album was released in 2009 and up till December 2011, no new material came from him except for a collaboration with Ghana group, R2Bees, on the song, Kiss Your Hand.
Thus, pitching his tent with Don Jazzy is perceived as getting back at D’banj. He even has a word for the Kokomaster; “God, please don’t let the success you have given me get to my head to the extent that I will forget my humble beginnings.”
For D’Prince, who had not tweeted since January, D’banj’s statement that he bought a LR3 Jeep for him valued at N11m to shore up his image as a Mo’Hits ensign, brought him back to the micro-blogging site. Waxing philosophical, the gangling singer-rapper tweets,
“We can easily forgive a child who is afraid of the dark; the real tragedy of life is when men are afraid of the light.” He continues, “The secret of change is to focus all of your energy, not on fighting the old, but on building the new….Thou shalt not bear FALSE witness against thy neighbour – 9th Commandments.”
Dr Sid, on the other hand, has not reacted to the leaked emails but responding to a fan who asked on whose side he is, he replies, “If you had Don Jazzy, would you leave?” Those in the know claim that the University of Ibadan graduate has always murmured that he could be as big a star on the label but for D’banj’s overwhelming influence. Little wonder, they never really got along. The on stage camaraderie was a façade.
D'BANJ SIGNS WITH MERCURY RECORDS UK
Mercury Records is a record label operating as a standalone company in the UK and as part of the The Island Def Jam Music Group in the US; both are subsidiaries of Universal Music Group.
Mercury Records lists D’banj on their official website as one of their acts alongside the likes of UK rock singer-songwriter Elton John, Soft Rock singer Taylor Swift Irish rock group U2, former The Beatles musician Paul McCartney and others.
Although his publicist and management are yet to respond to our E-mails concerning the signing, D’banj seems to have confirmed the news himself as he has updated the bio section profile on his Twitter page.
D’banj has also launched his personal website www.dbanjofficial.com where the Mecury Records logo boldly appears in the bottom right corner.
The new bio reads ‘DB/Good Music/ Mercury/IDJ’ (IDJ meaning Island Def Jam). When asked by a fan on Twitter what ‘IDJ’ means, he responded ‘island Def Jam bro’.
D’banj is however not listed on the G.O.O.D Music/Def Jam official roaster on the label’s website.
D’banj who recently parted ways with his former Mo’Hits label partner Don Jazzy has relocated to the US where he will continue to push his brand and music in the foreign music market.
The entertainer is set to officially release his smash single ‘Oliver’ (which recently made Scott Mills’ Radio 1 ‘Record Of The Week’) in the UK on May 14.
D’banj as announced earlier will also perform at the 2012 Barclaycard Wireless Festival which holds at the Hyde Park, London, on Saturday, July, 7 2012 and at the BBC Hackney Weekend 2012 in London come June 23 and 24.
MO’HITS SPLIT LATEST: D’BANJ,DON JAZZY IN WAR OF WORDS
If you are one of those who still think that the fallout of Mo’Hits founders, D’banj and Don Jazzy, is a rumour which will dissipate in no time, you probably still live in the past. In fact, in order to make the future safe from the past, the duo is already formalising plans to share their assets especially on the ownership of the mouth-watering Mo’Hits catalogue comprising all D’banj’s albums (No Long Thing, Rundown Funk U Up and The Entertainer), Wande Coal’s Mushin to Mo’Hits and The Mo’Hits Crew All Stars’ album, Curriculum Vitae among others. Thus, as you read, Mo’Hits is only waiting for legal certification before it is pronounced dead. And the pallbearers are already waiting in the flanks to ferry the remains of the beloved label to its final resting place, bringing to a painful end the reign and run of the successful label.
In the meantime, the Mo’Hits crew has been divided, as the two figures in the unfolding drama are moving out with their different disciples: D’banj’s younger brother, K-Switch, understandably, goes with him while Wande Coal, Dr Sid and D’Prince have settled for Don Jazzy. The future of the label’s artiste manager, Sunday Are, is unknown. Long before the separation became public knowledge, D’banj and Don Jazzy were no longer on speaking terms, an authoritative source tells us.
Neither do they see eye to eye. In fact, at their last concert in New York in February, they only met on stage because each artiste had his own cubicle. Rather, they communicate via email only when necessary. In a confidential email correspondence between the former collaborators, exclusively obtained by us, the sordid details that might have led to their break up are veiled, but the bitterness-laced correspondences are open about their claims for the assets of Mo’Hits especially the catalogues of all the artistes.
D’BANJ MUST PAY ALL THE DEBTS OF MO’HITS—DON JAZZY
In regards to D’banj’s claim for 100 percent ownership of all songs recorded under the Mo’Hits imprint, the acclaimed producer in an email on March 17th, states,
“That Mo’Hits Records does not already own 100 per cent of the songs. Note that Mo’Hits Records only owns 60 per cent of the songs and 40 per cent belongs to the individual artiste. So, 40 per cent of the songs is not mine to give.”
He continues,
“That me (I am) giving him (D’banj) my share of the catalogue does not and will never include him having the right to stop them (the artistes) from performing the songs or give him the right to claim any monies for live performances of these songs. And any loans or debt owed by Mo’Hits records as at today will be cleared by Mr D’banj as I am clearly not aware of any.”
Don Jazzy states further that the catalogues he is releasing to his former partner only consists of songs already released in an album exempting new singles and unreleased materials.
“So, songs like Wande Coal’s Go Low and Been Long You Saw Me are not part of this catalogue he is receiving. Also, an artiste like D’Prince, not only has he not released any album, he has not signed any contract whatsoever with Mo’Hits Records. That he has no right to claim any monies for deals that have been brokered already as at today with the catalogues or stop their usage. It is important to note that any unreleased songs done by any artiste (including D’banj and K-Switch) MUST NOT be released and is not part of the catalogue I am giving away.”
He adds,
“With these few points, I do hope that you all realise that I have been generous enough to facilitate the End of the “D’banj & Don Jazzy” era as a team. After this new deal has been signed and sealed, I do NOT look forward to seeing an email whatsoever or hearing from the DKM (D’banj, K-Switch, Mo’Hits) crew, and all is well again.”
WILL YOU RETURN THE BENTLEY I BOUGHT FOR YOU?—D’BANJ
Same day, D’banj responded to the email, stating, “In case he (Don Jazzy) forgot, this is the arrangement! 50/50—–song writer/ production, which means for a song X for artiste Y, 75 per cent as per production is fully owned by Mo’Hits and writing is shared 25/25 with the individual artiste co- writing. So, that’s the deal! So him (sic) saying 40 per cent is not his to give away is more like 75per me and 25per each artiste.”
He then asks,
“What do you mean by any bills or loans would be cleared by Mr. D’banj? That will never happen because when I ran the company, I ran it perfectly and well. So, if I give him my shares he is left with 100 per cent liability. My catalogue is everything that has been done with the Mo’Hits system and under the normal agreement we have, that means everything I have recorded or that has been recorded whether new or old, or even classic, whether beat with concept or even idea without beats, anything we did as a team and sponsored by me throughout, then, it is mine. Including K-switch clause and all mine and even Wande’s singles and all till the date of signing even today.”
Continuing, D’banj writes,
“And now, (I) wanna clear the air on this Samsung deal! I would expect by now that you understand that me keeping quiet is being GENEROUS because this is a deal structured under Mo’Hits Records, (and it is) the first deal and income you would ever bring into the company in eight years. We shared the first 150k (One hundred and fifty thousand dollars) the right way, 1/3 down and that was cool. But after you collected another 130k and did not say anything (that) is and could be described as theft! I only refused to contact them (Samsung) directly because of your reputation. But please don’t call me a fool and let’s know who is generous!” D’banj was not coy about his anger. He states that after sharing over N1bn with Don Jazzy in their Mo’Hits days, he was shocked that the producer would now sideline him when he got the balance from Samsung.’’
D’banj writes further,
“Please, please, will he (Don Jazzy) return the Bentley because I bought it for him and it was N5.2m more than mine?
And Prince that he claims has no signed contract but is actively involved and signed via engagement– I win his catalogue too – all recorded whether released now or not! This is because no one questioned me when I bought D’Prince N11m naira car (LR3/Range) without releasing any album just to boost the image of the boy and it worked for him! So, let’s get the facts straight, I AM BEING MORE THAN GENEROUS.”
GOOD MUSIC DEAL AND OTHER ISSUES
After Don Jazzy inferred on twitter that the end might have come for Mo’Hits, we reliably gathers that D’banj was prevailed upon by close friends and associates not to talk despite being aggrieved that his lifelong friend had painted him black before the public. But the hyperactive entertainer, the source says, may have reached his tether’s end and any moment from now would reveal to the world all that went wrong between him and Don Jazzy. Part of what he will talk about, we learns, will dwell on the genesis of their separation and the point at which Don Jazzy advised that they did away with Mo’Hits and concentrate on their GOOD Music deal.
“It was D’banj who prevailed on him that even if they were going to concentrate on their deal with Kanye, they didn’t need to do away with Mo’Hits,” says the source.
When the deal with GOOD Music sailed through, Don Jazzy was signed on as a producer while D’banj was the artiste. By virtue of how the American music system works, producers are only meant to be heard not seen. So, the source says further,
“Kanye and D’banj and the other guys were always going out leaving behind the producers, including Don Jazzy, which didn’t go down well with him. After some time, D’banj noticed this and to placate him, he bought both of them a Bentley each. Further, he also bought a house in Atlanta, equipped with high tech studio equipment so that Don Jazzy could be working mostly from their new home but he was not appeased as he felt that he was being outshined by D’banj.”
On the other hand, Don Jazzy allegedly told his close associates that the reason he decided to part ways with D’banj was because of an alleged arrogance which was impacting negatively on the other artistes. Long before Mo’Hits evolved, they were friends before becoming partners, putting up with each other’s shortcomings but fame and money have combined to becloud their tolerance of each other
DON JAZZY GETS MULTI MILLION NAIRA DEAL AFTER SPLIT WITH D'BANJ + MEETS WANDE COAL IN SOUTH AFRICA
According to information available to Nigeriafilms.com from a grapevine, the celebrated music producer signed a double digit million naira worth deal with Samsung for its home theatre system.
We learnt that he helped in designing the bass system of Samsung's Afro POP Home Theatre system. He is presently in Cape Town, South Africa.
We scooped that Don Jazzy is also in South Africa with Wande Coal working on a music video.
Don Jazzy and D'Banj called it quit with each other after about nine years together as Mohits label co-owners.
JAJ, TOOLZ, ELDEE, DAREY, OTHERS SPEAK ON D'BANJ - DON JAZZY SPLIT
Here’s what some of key industry players have to say on the shocking development… We’d love to know what you think too.
Terry Tha Rapman: Well, first of, I don’t want to believe it’s true. Who knows it might be a publicity stunt. But if it’s true, then it’s sad because they were about to make history with the alliance with G.O.O.D Music. Now Mo’Hits’ fans are torn apart and it might affect both of them.
M-Trill: I think it’s a sad development not just that they split but the way they did. I wish it was more cordial. Now, I have renewed my respect for Kenny Ogungbe and D1. I wish them both the best…
Demola Ogundele (Notjustok): The split is sad. The good thing is that they are still both alive and have the opportunity to drop music that we can still enjoy. The bad thing is that we won’t get to enjoy the Synergy and the magic they have created together in the past. I wish them both blessings as they move on to their individual goals.
Evaezi: I’m genuinely speechless and sad. They made a great team… Their chemistry was unbelievable…and you could feel it in their music. As for the effects, I honestly don’t know. I guess we’ll have to wait and see.
Cyrus Tha Virus: I really think it’s not as bad as a lot of people are making it out to be; both parties have paid their dues together as a formidable Mo’Hits entity. Now I guess it’s time for chasing separate personal dreams; what it portends for the Nigerian Music industry? I guess we will now see a lot of the other ‘labels’ struggling to become the number one label in Nigeria and I can’t wait to see what Don Jazzy and D’banj can do separately.
Goldie: I feel it’s very sad, especially as together; they were a force to be reckoned with. It’s hard to imagine how each would cope without the other.
Princess: They are both roles models to a lot of people. They should sort out their differences but not break up
Overdose: Both men are grown and make decisions. I don’t think it has anything to do with other people making music.
Aremu Afolayan: a fan of them. I don’t know what their problem is. They make a hell lot of money from us Nigerians. They should call themselves together and settle it. It’ll affect a lot of things in the industry.
OC Ukeje: The music industry will do well with or without them. They will need people. Don Jazzy has an advantage over him as a producer and singer.
Olisa Adibua: The industry is bigger than them. So it can’t affect them. It’s time for the industry to get more people. The artistes under the label won’t suffer, just that the friendship between the two will. They might come back again like the Beatles
Jacob Akinyemi Johnson: Well the truth is I don’t have all the facts about the matter yet, and as such I can’t really speak on it for now. Don Jazzy and Dbanj are both my friends so I have to be careful what I say about it for now.
Ebuka Obi-Uchendu: It’s hard to react yet because we’ve not heard from D’banj yet, but in all I think music has gone beyond individuals, it’s not the end of the world. The good thing is Don jazzy has said he’s gonna continue doing music and D’banj too will continue, though maybe on an international level, but at any rate, I think they will continue doing good music.
eLDee: I don’t see any negative effects on the industry. I think they are going to continue to do good music as long as they are active. It’s just unfortunate things turned out this way and I wish it wouldn’t have come to this. I’ve been through this before and I can tell you it hurts. But I wish them the best.
Damilola Purple: I was surprised and its a big blow to the music industry... i wish them well and i hope to see alot of new things from them separately in the nearest future.
Toolz: I think it’s sad because you really can’t talk about Nigerian music without mentioning them. However, I see it as a whole new chapter for the artistes on the label and I also think that won’t stop them from doing music.
Steve Babaeko: Unlike most people my focus is not on the split but the outstanding contribution that both Don Jazzy and D’banj have made and are still making to Nigeria’s music industry. Change is part of this game, sadly so. In a country where millions of young people are struggling to find their voice, these gentlemen not only found theirs they spoke eloquently about the courage, perseverance and creativity of Nigerian youths. I wish both of them good luck in their future pursuits.
Olumide Iyanda: Well I think it definitely has affected the music industry, I was there when the whole thing started in 2004. Anyway, for now, let’s see how the whole thing goes.
Segun Demuren: I think it’s a shock, especially coming on the heels of a major international deal, I wish it didn’t have to happen this way. Don Jazzy is probably the best producer in the country right now, and D’banj, in spite of what people may say or think, I mean, I know he drew quite a lot of criticism on twitter and the like, but he is one of the most electrifying performers anywhere. I think they will both go on to do very well in their careers.
Modenine: Well I’ve known D’banj for quite a while now, more than 10 years ago, and I’ve also met Don Jazzy as well and we all know they are both an award winning team. I’m not about what went down and all of that, but It’s unfortunate. I do wish them well though.
Obi Asika: I was extremely sad to see Don Jazzy’s tweet today. I just want to salute Don Jazzy and D’banj and the entire mo hits crew, amazing memories! I pray that the personal relationships can be repaired and wish both Don Jazzy and D’banj well. They made history don’t forget it! Sad News!
Illbliss: It came as a shock. They made great music as a team but then that’s the music business. Life goes on uninterrupted.
Darey: It’s pretty sad to hear that because they are all my friends. I hope everything turns out for the best
ARE YOU KIDDING ME? 6 AND A HALF REASONS DON JAZZY WILL NOT LOSE
I would start in the vein of my colleague and state that I am #TeamDonJazzy or #TeamDBanj but I am unabashedly, neither. I’ve never for one second stopped to consider whether D’banj was good or bad at anything although I’ve caught myself a few times thinking how great a beat maker Don Jazzy is.
That said, I find the idea that Don Jazzy will be the loser in this case, highly improbable.
Here’s why:
D Banj has Kanye. Okay, now what?
Sure, Kanye appeared in D’Banj’s latest video. But, excuse me while I ask, “then what”? What has Kanye done for D’Banj so far beyond shouting him out on Twitter? He got him doing back up (to put it nicely) “vocals” on a song by someone called Lil Issue (I mean who is that?) Whoop-de-deoo. As far as the Nigerian public goes, all that “deal” can bring D’banj is hype. Success? That’s not how the American music industry works. The idea of having a Nigerian musician linked to Kanye West will inevitably rouse the interests of any music lover out there. But what happens when the novelty of that wears off? How many Nigerians know or will bother trying to figure out who a “Lil Issue” is?
D’Banj is the performer. So?
Yes, D’Banj is the performer. The same performer accused of being boring at the Koko Concert and Rhythm Unplugged shows last year. Whitney (Houston) and Michael (Jackson) supposedly had the love of the public “through thick and thin”. Really? It’s easy to forget, due to the (unfortunately) largely hypocritical outpourings of affection that trailed their deaths, that they were once the butt of ridicule by the public. In fact, many would say being in the public eye caused many of their problems but that’s neither here nor there at this point. The fact is, certain things are just hard to live down, and the public doesn’t let go that easily. A more recent example would be Chris Brown. Despite the attempts by the media and members of the industry themselves (Rihanna, I’m looking at you) to make us forget “the incident”, people aren’t just going to pretend like it never happened. Even a public endorsement by the woman he beat up isn’t about to wash away his sins; hearing him sing about all the different ways he wants to enjoy a “cake” isn’t going to make me think of him as anything beyond a woman beater (thankfully I have an edit of the song free of his voice so I can continue to enjoy it in all its sexually over the top catchiness). His songs get played on the radio, MTV shoves his videos down our throats, he performed at The Grammys twice, even won one, but his last album, released almost a year ago hasn’t even gone platinum. Despite the attempts by “insiders” to convince us it’s some sort of “comeback”, it hasn’t even sold up to a million copies worldwide. Yes, it’s a flop. And D’Banj, even though he (thankfully) hasn’t beaten a woman to unconsciousness, could very well become a flop in that manner. The public loves to take sides, and hey, it’s clear Don Jazzy is the one receiving all the goodwill in this situation. I mean, the dude shares credit on Twitter, of course people are going to support him! Especially when the other option is to either “mind your own business” (which is pretty much a foreign concept to Nigerians) or support the guy who for a while now has seemed determined to present himself as the most arrogant -(insert preferred word for unpleasant here) person ever.
Don Jazzy’s losing it? Hardly.
Don Jazzy’s biggest power is his mystique? Errr, no. It may play a huge part in his “image”, but I highly doubt people listen to songs produced by him because they think by so doing they can somehow discover a little more about that guy who bizarrely insists on always whispering into D’Banj’s ears.
When people hear a song produced by Don Jazzy is about to be released, anticipation builds. Why? Because, they’re sure that it will be, in no equivocal terms, a jam. MI has made “Short black boy” a very prominent part of his brand, but if 24 hours to the release of Illegal Music 2 he were to suddenly transform into a 6 foot plus light-skinned fellow, would that stop downloads of the mixtape from crashing any site onto which it were hosted?
Get off the stage
This is, admittedly, a near faultless point. Let’s face it, Don Jazzy has little business adding his indistinguishable croaks to a track. Granted there’s a certain melodic catchiness to his “lepa on the floor” line from Tiwa Savage’s Without My Heart but overall his feature on that song could have been done without. That said, is that going to ruin his career? I can only laugh as I say, hardly. The notion that this will cause him to lose is, quite frankly, over the top and pointlessly dramatic.
Don Jazzy is boring
Another faultless point. At least as far as I know. But the question is, who cares? Seriously. Don Jazzy splitting from D’Banj doesn’t necessarily mean he needs to now take the spotlight. He can be boring all he wants while remaining in the background, like he always has. Yes, D’banj may possess the uncanny ability to confidently spew out meaningless dribble about “kokolets” and what not, but what happens when the novelty of that wears off and he actually has to answer a question with some semblance of intelligence? Judging by the debacle that was his Sahara Reporter’s interview, the answer to that is a resounding “eh….”
Don Jazzy on the other hand managed to handle the public outcry over his involvement, or lack thereof in the Occupy Nigeria protests, much better. A series of well worded tweets was all it took to get people back on his side. Boring or not, the man knows what he’s doing.
Don Jazzy has magic fingers. Well, duh?
Well, he does. Ikechukwu and Dr Sid/DPrince and whatever the rest of the “crew” are called may effectively be flops now but their only chances at success were due, in no small part, to Don Jazzy.
Yes. Everyone “knew” Ikechukwu before Don Jazzy hooked up with him, how could we not? What with him shrieking “My name is Ikeeeeechukwu” left and right like a sex-starved banshee. But, the only time anyone ever took him or his music seriously, or at least seriously enough to listen to was more than likely with “Wine am well’. And no, D’Banj’s verse and feature in the video were not the reason. People may have danced to D’Prince’s “Omoba” in the club but it sure as hell wasn’t because of anything special he added to the song.
Davido
This is my “half reason”. I’ll admit I’m pulling this out of nowhere in particular. But what if? Yes, Davido is already insanely popular now. He’s managed to achieve a lot without the backing of any popular or already established music industry honchos like Banky or Don Jazzy. So what if he somehow got with Don Jazzy? Sonia debacle aside, how many would be able to resist Davido “nananinanano’-ing on a Don Jazzy beat? He already has the females (and males, apparently) fawning over his dimples so imagine what would come of that pairing? Still think D’Banj is irreplaceable?
MO'HITS RECORDS: END OF AN ERA
Saturday March 17, 2012 would have been remembered in Nigeria for the sweltering heat until a certain ace producer got on Twitter.
In a series of obviously belabored tweets, the one-time CEO of Mo’Hits records Don Jazzy validated all the rumors that had been flying around about his split with erstwhile partner D’banj, finally bringing to an end what a lot could easily term the most dynamic partnership contemporary Nigerian music has ever witnessed.
Already a lot of accusatory fingers have been pointed to what could have triggered the split: some tenable – a Kanye West-G.O.O.D Music deal hemorrhaging already bloated egos and increasing the bad blood, others laughable and a little far-fetched – talk of ‘juju’ and rappers hexing Don Jazzy after a Hip-hop World interview where the good don had some rather unsavory things to say about the state of rap music in Nigeria.
Over the next couple of weeks, music columnists, conspiracy theorists, and others alike are sure to have a field day as they give reasons to why a seemingly symbiotic relationship went to the pits as well as proffer directions as to the next steps for the duo and the Mo’hits label home to Dr SID, Wande Coal, D’Prince and K-switch, their collective and singular futures keenly debated as a matter of life and death and the after-life.
Hours after the ‘twitclaration’, Don Jazzy and D’banj were already trending as separate entities; with the imprint they started already taking the first steps towards full blown relegation to the backgrounds of our memories. Whilst this might be in the spirit of the trending topic, a step back might be needed to remember Mo’hits for what it was and why, regardless of their separation now, their names will forever be intertwined when talk of this epoch of Nigerian music comes up.
In an era where even divinely sanctioned unions don’t last forever, D’banj and Don Jazzy have been able to put a lot into a mere decade. What started out as two young men relocating from England with a bunch of songs and a lot of dreams has turned into a cultural behemoth touching on a lot besides music. With Don Jazzy’s sonic direction and D’banj’s electric personality they jointly impacted us in ways that we hadn’t felt in a while or even known to be humanly possible before them.
They had us dancing to their infectious songs – some of us going as far as imitating the phallic hand move made famous by D’banj. They flexed urban lingo to include koko and all its derivatives, made ‘oseee’ standard form of response to good news and took endowed from the annals of conversational obscurity and made it common speak.
When it came to performances they equally blazed trails, either shocking us a la a young D’banj strutting his stuff on the stage an the inaugural edition of the Hiphopworld awards in nothing more than a towel – only outdone in audacity by his ambush of the red carpet earlier on with 50-plus kokolettes; or leaving us in sheer awe as to how they pulled it off – live performances that had a mish mash of atilogwu and salsa dancers and what else they could bring on stage as a band gave remix renditions of already hit songs
In business their mark was also felt as they gained an enviable position as Nigeria’s foremost record label churning hit album after hit album, even going on further by trying alternative models to Alaba distribution (the Funk You Up and Mo’hits compilation album – C.V). Not to forget the Koko brand extensions from reality shows to phones, the international collaborations, the Oliver viral video campaign, the corporate endorsements to the eventual G.O.O.D Music deal that many feel broke their union.
Don Jazzy in tweeting about the split also announced that he would be giving away the proceeds of his production catalogue to five charity organizations. Whoever the recipients turn out to be, they are sure to be smiling to the bank. But somehow they won’t still be able to lay exclusive rights to that as we all have been benefactors of the Mo’hits legacy – their story and their rise showing what two people can do with the right amount of resilience, talent and passion.
That it has now come to an end doesn’t taint it for what it is. After all what is that popular saying about all good things (no pun intended)?
In a series of obviously belabored tweets, the one-time CEO of Mo’Hits records Don Jazzy validated all the rumors that had been flying around about his split with erstwhile partner D’banj, finally bringing to an end what a lot could easily term the most dynamic partnership contemporary Nigerian music has ever witnessed.
Already a lot of accusatory fingers have been pointed to what could have triggered the split: some tenable – a Kanye West-G.O.O.D Music deal hemorrhaging already bloated egos and increasing the bad blood, others laughable and a little far-fetched – talk of ‘juju’ and rappers hexing Don Jazzy after a Hip-hop World interview where the good don had some rather unsavory things to say about the state of rap music in Nigeria.
Over the next couple of weeks, music columnists, conspiracy theorists, and others alike are sure to have a field day as they give reasons to why a seemingly symbiotic relationship went to the pits as well as proffer directions as to the next steps for the duo and the Mo’hits label home to Dr SID, Wande Coal, D’Prince and K-switch, their collective and singular futures keenly debated as a matter of life and death and the after-life.
Hours after the ‘twitclaration’, Don Jazzy and D’banj were already trending as separate entities; with the imprint they started already taking the first steps towards full blown relegation to the backgrounds of our memories. Whilst this might be in the spirit of the trending topic, a step back might be needed to remember Mo’hits for what it was and why, regardless of their separation now, their names will forever be intertwined when talk of this epoch of Nigerian music comes up.
In an era where even divinely sanctioned unions don’t last forever, D’banj and Don Jazzy have been able to put a lot into a mere decade. What started out as two young men relocating from England with a bunch of songs and a lot of dreams has turned into a cultural behemoth touching on a lot besides music. With Don Jazzy’s sonic direction and D’banj’s electric personality they jointly impacted us in ways that we hadn’t felt in a while or even known to be humanly possible before them.
They had us dancing to their infectious songs – some of us going as far as imitating the phallic hand move made famous by D’banj. They flexed urban lingo to include koko and all its derivatives, made ‘oseee’ standard form of response to good news and took endowed from the annals of conversational obscurity and made it common speak.
When it came to performances they equally blazed trails, either shocking us a la a young D’banj strutting his stuff on the stage an the inaugural edition of the Hiphopworld awards in nothing more than a towel – only outdone in audacity by his ambush of the red carpet earlier on with 50-plus kokolettes; or leaving us in sheer awe as to how they pulled it off – live performances that had a mish mash of atilogwu and salsa dancers and what else they could bring on stage as a band gave remix renditions of already hit songs
In business their mark was also felt as they gained an enviable position as Nigeria’s foremost record label churning hit album after hit album, even going on further by trying alternative models to Alaba distribution (the Funk You Up and Mo’hits compilation album – C.V). Not to forget the Koko brand extensions from reality shows to phones, the international collaborations, the Oliver viral video campaign, the corporate endorsements to the eventual G.O.O.D Music deal that many feel broke their union.
Don Jazzy in tweeting about the split also announced that he would be giving away the proceeds of his production catalogue to five charity organizations. Whoever the recipients turn out to be, they are sure to be smiling to the bank. But somehow they won’t still be able to lay exclusive rights to that as we all have been benefactors of the Mo’hits legacy – their story and their rise showing what two people can do with the right amount of resilience, talent and passion.
That it has now come to an end doesn’t taint it for what it is. After all what is that popular saying about all good things (no pun intended)?
D'BANJ'S SHOCKER - 'I OWN MO'HITS AND DON JAZZY IS MY ARTISTE
In a recent interview on Ebony Magazine’s official website, published on March 12, 2012, D’banj claims to own the record label Mo’Hits, and also says he was responsible for signing the label’s artistes, including Don Jazzy.
‘Coming from Africa I’m my own manager, I have my own label called Mo’ Hits with my artists Dr. Sid, Wande Coal, Don Jazzy, D’Prince and K-Switch. I own Mo’ Hits and we’ve won numerous awards by the grace of God’, D’banj told music journalist Hillary Crosley.
The pop star goes on to talk about his entrance into the US market and his signing with Kanye West’s label G.O.O.D Music.
It remains uncertain whether D’Banj was actually laying claim to fully owning Mo’Hits, attempting to set the records straight, following recent controversies surrounding he and Jazzy, or he was quoted out of context by the interviewer. But, curiously, apart from referring to Don Jazzy as ‘his artiste’, D’banj doesn’t mention or credit the producer in any other part of the interview.
It is generally believed that D’banj and Don Jazzy co-own the label, with Don jazzy acting as President while D’Banj is Vice President. They’re the label’s only known directors.
The pair, who started out about nine years ago when D’banj released his single ‘Tongolo’ have made headlines in recent times. Sources say they’re currently on the verge of breaking up, following seemingly irreconcilable differences.
MO'HITS WAR: FRIENDS MOVE TO RECONCILE D'BANJ AND DON JAZZY
Multiple sources say, following protracted disagreements, both parties may have reached a mutual agreement on ending their business partnership, although they haven’t come out to say anything to the public.
Reports, including that of Nigerian daily, The Vanguard, say Don Jazzy and D’banj’s relationship has gone terribly sour, with possibility of the acclaimed producer launching another label, which will see him have full authority and sole ownership. Don Jazzy currently co-owns Mo’Hits with D’banj. The pair formed the label in London after working out of JJC’s Backbone Music in 2004.
A barrage of unanswered questions from fans have long been flocking the enigmatic producer’s page on popular micro-blogging site Twitter, but in stark contrast to his usual responsiveness, Don Jazzy has been quiet. He hasn’t tweeted since the story came to light.
Before now, the famous duo were never seen anywhere without each other, but at the time of writing this report, Don Jazzy is in Nigeria without his hitherto ever present pal D’banj, who is promoting his brand in America while he works on his forthcoming fourth album ‘Mr Endowed’.
On the other hand, we’re told the Mo’hits producer has temporarily moved into Dr. SID‘s 1004 Victoria Island apartment, where Wande Coal also resides, having deserted the multi-million Naira Lekki mansion he moved into with D’Banj in early 2011.
Insiders say this new development, if not arrested before things totally crumble, could spell the end of what’s probably the biggest music powerhouse and label ever seen in Nigeria.
GENESIS
The now evident cracks became obvious around the time the producer who is also the President and CEO of Mo’Hits, bagged the Kanye West G.O.O.D Music deal which also influenced a $3m JV deal, with D’Banj as key beneficiary. The Kanye project catapulted both stars to a whole new pedestal in their careers, where they now rubbed shoulders with the biggest names in the international music scene. But the problems had emanated before then.
From then on, insiders say ‘D’banj’s ego, which was already causing tension within the label, only got bigger and harder to check’. Sources claim this new feeling of invincibility on the singer’s part began to make him question his continued association with his long-time friend and collaborator, who didn’t seem to be ‘representing’ on this new found wavelength.
The recent Occupy Nigeria protest also saw the acts take separate sides – while D’banj did little to save himself from accusations of collecting money from Goodluck Jonathan, Don Jazzy readily denounced the government and identifed with the people; saying, in what would become a famous tweet, that he ‘regrets voting for Goodluck Jonathan’
FALLOUT
It appears D’banj, whose Don Jazzy produced 2005 ‘No Long Thing‘ album instantly brought him to the limelight, is uncomfortable with the continued delay in the release of his fourth studio album ‘Mr Endowed‘, which was initially supposed to be released late 2011.
Trusted sources allege that D’banj no longer remits payments from any shows he attends into the label’s general account. As one source puts it ‘he feels Don Jazzy isn’t putting the right kind of energy into the business right now’.
A Daily Times report claims D’banj is now represented by the label’s A&R – Oluseun ‘Bankulli’ Abisagboola while the other Mo’Hits acts, including Don Jazzy, are still being represented by long-time manager Sunday Are. All efforts to reach Bankulli proved abortive, and while Mr. Are picked up our phone calls, he didn’t answer our inquiries, neither did he reply our text messages asking the same questions. Don Jazzy had not responded to our emails as at the time of going to press.
CONSEQUENCES
As already reported, Don Jazzy has now chosen to stay with other artistes on his label, specifically putting up with Dr. Sid at the moment, leaving the Lekki Mansion deserted.
D’Banj, on the other hand, has been seen in the United States, and Paris recently, living it up with music heavyweights like Diddy, Swizz Beatz, Common and other stars who came to support his new boss, Kanye West at Paris Fashion Week. Those close to him also say he’s bought himself a home in Los Angeles where he now hopes to reside fully. He’s also reportedly building himself a new team – made up of trusted associates like Bankuli and a former Mtech boss who’s heading his business team.
One source told us: ‘The camp has definitely split up – D’banj and younger brother K Switch are shuttling to and fro the US and UK, while Dr SID (who’s had repeated spats with D’Banj in the past) and D’Prince have stuck with Don Jazzy. ‘Dr. SID feels indebted to Jazzy as he blew up his career‘.
It is uncertain where Wande Coal stands for now. And while many are already taking sides, we’re told those who understand the implications of the pending break-up, are working day and night to make sure it doesn’t happen. ‘Several people are working to make sure it’s resolved’ a top industry source told us, Saturday. ‘Friends and partners will always quarrel. I dont see anything happening between them that can not be resolved. They stand to benefit more by remaining together than if they go their separate ways…’
However, one Mo’Hits insider claims ‘sadly this thing has gone beyond repair’. He refused to elaborate.
POST BREAK-UP PROJECTIONS FOR THE MO’HITS DUO
So with the breakup of the duo looking like a reality, what lies in store for both power partners if they decide to go their separate ways? NET examines the possible scenarios.
D’BANJ:
This music maverick’s career is not likely to be over, at least not in the foreseeable future. With increasing international exposure opening doors for him from London to New York, multi-million dollar deals begging for his star endorsement, close associations with the biggest names in musical entertainment; Snoop Dogg, Kanye West, Jay Z and more, there is little evidence to support the notion that a split will stop his career in its’ tracks.
However, ‘breaking free’ from his long-time producer and friend, if not properly managed, may mark the beginning of a long and painful journey into a reckless and irresponsible lifestyle, culminating into personal and career decline.
DON JAZZY:
The producer is in no danger of being out of relevance musically, since his G.O.O.D music deal will no doubt task him on bringing out more creative material fit for his new family’s primarily American audience, thereby boosting his profile. His ever building clientele also doesn’t seem to be much threatened, as even now, he commands some of the highest production fees in the continent.
However, his visibility in the media may suffer, thereby confining him permanently to the booth. The combined force of Wande Coal, Dr. Sid, D’Prince and possibly K-Switch, taking nothing away from their commercial viability and talent, don’t seem enough to ensure his visual presence, at least not like his Don Jazzy/D’Banj duo formular. One good thing for him though: Don Jazzy is a star maker who can pick up another talent and create a star in the mould of D’banj in a few years. He also appears to be a more disciplined act; and in showbusiness, with discipline comes focus and longevity…
WIZKID, ICEPRINCE, NAETO C, D'BANJ AND DUNCAN MIGHTY FOR GHANA MUSIC AWARDS 2012
Naeto C has been nominated in the ‘African Artiste of the Year’ category…
The 2012 edition of the annual Ghana Music Awards will hold on April 14, 2012 and organizers have released the list for this year’s nominees.
The unveiling was done Wednesday February 29, 2012 at studios of GH One Entertainment Television and was witnessed by members of the media, VGMA Academy and Board members and organizers of the event.
The ‘African Artiste of the Year’ category is highly dominated by Nigerian acts with Naeto C, Duncan Mighty, Ice Prince, D’banj, Wizkid received nods. Cabo Snoop is the other contender in the category who is non-Nigerian.
Out of a total of 30 categories, 23 were announced; Organizers say the seven other categories are ‘honorary and technical’ and have promised to announced winners of those categories at the main awards night on April 14, 2012 in the Dome at the Accra International Conference Centre.
ARTISTE(S) OF THE YEAR
Becca
Okyeame Kwame
Sarkodie
Efya
R2Bees
Kwaw Kese
4×4
HIPLIFE/HIPHOP ARTISTE (S) OF THE YEAR
Stay Jay
Okyeame Kwame
4X4
Sarkodie
D-Cryme
Kwaw Kese
R2Bees
HIGHLIFE ARTISTE (S) OF THE YEAR
Daddy Lumba
KK Fosu
Kwabena Kwabena
Kwasie Pee
George Darko
Lucky Mensah
GOSPEL ARTISTE (S) OF THE YEAR
DSP Kofi Sarpong
Gifty Osei
Philipa Baafi
Lady Prempeh
Bernice Ansah
Selina Boateng
BEST NEW ARTISTE (S) OF THE YEAR
Atumpan
Racquel
Stay Jay
D-Cryme
EL
Zigi
BEST COLLABORATION OF THE YEAR
Trigmatic/Racquel – Aageii
Fuse ODG/Tiffany – Azonto
Racquel/Sarkodie – Sweetieo
Eduwordzi/Stay Jay – Yenko Nkoa
Okyeame Kwame/Bertha – Faithful
Sarkodie/Efya – I’m In Love With You
Sarkodie/EL – You go kill me
AFRICAN ARTISTE (S) OF THE YEAR (NON-GHANAIAN)
Naeto C
Duncan Mighty
Ice Prince
D’banj
Cabo Snoop
Wizkid
HIPLIFE SONG OF THE YEAR
Stay Jay – Shashee Wowo
Eduwordzi – Yenko Nkoa
Okyeame Kwame – Faithful
Buk Bak – Kolon
D-Cryme – Kill Me Shy
HIGHLIFE SONG OF THE YEAR
George Darko – Lucky Star
Lucky Mensah – Nkratour
Kwabena Maphia – I Go Pay
Daddy Lumba – Ko Hye Po
Kwabena Kwabena – Be Gye Me
KK Fosu – Akoma
MOST POPULAR SONG OF THE YEAR
4×4 – Yesi Yesii
Stay Jay – Shashee Wowo
Selina Boateng – Me Nku Me Ho
D-Cryme – Kill Me Shy
Sarkodie – U go Kill Me
Zigi – You Say Wetin
Atumpan – The Thing
Okyeame Kwame – Faithful
AFRO-POP SONG OF THE YEAR
Ruff N Smooth – Beautiful
Becca – African Woman
Fuse ODG – Azonto
Zigi – You Say Wetin
Atumpan – The Thing
Racquel – Sweetieo
Chase – Tell Me Your Name
HIPHOP SONG OF THE YEAR
Bra Kevin – Three Headed Beast
D-Black – My Kind Of Girl
Sarkodie – I’m In Love With You
Edem – Too Much
Guru – Mmaakuo
Kwaw Kese – Poppin
GOSPEL SONG OF THE YEAR
Lady Prempeh – Nsantaban
Gifty Osei – Fefeefe
Philipa Baafi – Dea Eba Wosem Afeyi
Jake Alolome – Tomorrow By This Time
DSP Kofi Sarpong – African Borborbo
Bernice Ansah – Final Say
REGGAE SONG OF THE YEAR
Blakk Rasta – Miss Right
Sonni Balli – All They See
Edem – Ghetto Arise
Kesse – Oh Yes
Stonebwoy – Climax
Jupiter/Trigmatic – Uptown Downtown
GROUP OF THE YEAR
R2Bees
Buk Bak
Keche
Ruff N Smooth
4×4
ALBUM OF THE YEAR
Sarkodie – Rapperholic
Kwaw Kese – Untold Stories
4×4 – Waist and Power
Stay Jay – Repetition
Trigmatic – Solutions
Selina Boateng – Menku Meho
BEST MALE VOCAL ARTISTE
Kesse – Oh Yes
Fritz – Me Do wo
KK Fosu – Akoma
Kwasey Pee – Shwe Ahenie
Chemphe – Number One
Kwame Adinkra- Abena Dansoaa
BEST FEMALE VOCAL ARTISTE
Efya – I’m In Love With You
Racquel – Odo
Bertha – Faithful
Becca – African Woman
Irene Logan – Light and Darkness
Diana Antwi Hamilton – Eye Wo Ara
BEST MUSIC VIDEO OF THE YEAR
Becca- African Woman (Davis Media Group)
4X4- Yesi Yesii (Phamous People)
D-Black- My Kind of Girl (Jonathan Olamide/Desmond Blackmore)
Mensah- No One Knows (Sam A. Kessie)
Bra Kevin-3 Headed Beast (Nana Asihene)
Sherifa Gunu- Mrantie (Phamous Films Production)
Okyeame Kwame- Faithful (Ohene Media)
BEST RAPPER OF THE YEAR
Manifest – Ghana Must Go
Sarkodie – U go Kill Me
Okyeame Kwame – Faithful
Edem – Legacy
Trigmatic – Light and Darkness
EL – Obuumo
SONG-WRITER OF THE YEAR
Okyeame Kwame (Faithful)
D-Cryme (Kill Me Shy)
Mensah (Fante Love Song)
Manifest/Efya (Asa)
Sarkodie/Efya (An in Love With You)
Kiki Banson (African Woman performed by Becca)
Trigmatic (Light and darkness)
RECORD OF THE YEAR
Okyeame Kwame – Faithful
Jayso/Adina – Music
Mensa – Fante Love Song
Trigmatic/ Irene Logan – Light and Darkness
Sarkodie – I’m In Love With You
Kwame Adinkra – Akua Dansoa
Yaa Pono – Goodmorning
GOSPEL ALBUM OF THE YEAR
Philip Baafi – Dea Eba Wosem Afeyi
Selina Boateng – Me Nku Me Ho
Bernice Ansah – Gbenze Gbenze
Lady Prempeh – Ne Ntaban
Asukufou – Chapter One
Gifty Osei – Fefeefe
D'BANJ FEATURED IN NEW YORK TIMES
http://mobile.nytimes.com/2012/02/23/arts/music/dbanj-and-other-african-stars-at-irving-plaza.xml
D'BANJ JOINS RICK ROSS ON NEW HIP HOP TRACK
The pop star recently got working with popular Miami-based rapper Rick Ross on a hip-hop track owned by another Miami-based upcoming rapper Lil’ Issue. The song titled ‘V.I.P‘ sees D’banj deliver ad-libs on the chorus and outro while Ross and Lil’ Issue share verses.
Lil’ Issue has also worked with the likes of rap veteran Bun B and R&B cat Pleasure P.
V.I.P : Download
PHOTOS: MO’HITS ROCK AT THE ‘LIVE IN NEW YORK CITY’ CONCERT
The event was a total sell-out as some fans had to be turned back because there was no more space to accommodate them.
D’Banj was supported at the show by other members of Mo’Hits crew such as Dr Sid,D’Prince,Wande Coal and K-Switch.
According to the highly elated singer New York – SOLD OUT!! I told u I was going to eat from the Big Apple… THANK YOU FANS! Oooossshhee!‘
Here’s pics from the event below.
LOVE GONE SOUR !! THE UNTOLD STORY OF GENEVIEVE AND D'BANJ
Genny as she is popularly called is one of the thespians who came on the scene over a decade ago and became popular with her good mastery of the craft which was evident in her sound delivery of movies roles.
She has been courting controversies since her emergence in the movie industry, but has remained unperturbed about uncomplimentary remarks flying around her.
Despite the fact that Miss Nnaji has been romantically linked with so many men in the past,she has been trying so hard lately to shield her love life from prying eyes of the media because of the humiliation she suffers in her last relationship.
Last year,Genny was rumoured to be in a sizzling relationship with popular hip-hop star, Dapo Oyebanjo a.k.a D’banj and everyone thought it was altar-bound until the devil reared its ugly head and the whole affair collapsed like a pack of badly arranged cards.
One of the reasons for their break-up is the story of how Genevieve was given the embarrassment of her life by a London based Nigeria babe days before her last birthday.
It would be recall that D’banj and the Mo’hit crew treated Genevieve to a surprise birthday bash in London last year.
We learnt D’banj had earlier hooked up with Genevieve at a hotel and later in the day,took her to a departmental store to shop for a befitting birthday outfit.
According to sources,D’banj over the years he lived in London,has a serious girlfriend.Interestingly,D’banj girl and the girlfriend of his partners Don Jazzy are pals.
While the story was on in Nigeria that D’banj was in romance with Genevieve,the star musician we hear,was denying the fact and telling his London based babe that the story about him and Genevieve was contrived by the Nigerian media and that outside appearing in his video,she was just an acquaintance in the industry.
Nemesis however caught up with D’banj when he took Genevieve to the shop.
We gathered that Don Jazzy also took his own babe on the trip.Insiders say Don Jazzy’s babe must have used her Black Berry to contact the girl who arrived the shop in a fury.What happened next was a blur as she allegedly attacked Genevieve and almost stripped her bare.
We were told that D’banj had to buy another dress for the actress to wear back to her hotel room.
This occurrence is said to be the reason they parted.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)