Fast-growing Lagos-based Entertainment and hospitality hub, Avalanche has announced the birth of its educational arm, The Avalanche Creative Academy.
The academy is designed as a top-notch platform dedicated to nurturing creativity and innovation among aspiring creatives.
The Academy aims to provide comprehensive training through various programs, workshops, and mentorship opportunities, all designed to inspire and equip students with the skills they need to thrive in the creative industry.
It offers the following courses: Music Production, Sound Engineering, Photography, cinematography, 3D,graphic designs, motion graphics, Business Management, Creative copywriting, and Creative Strategies.
The Academy’s first set of intakes is scheduled to resume on the 17th of February 2025, while application opens from 13th of January 2025, on a 12-week basis course.
“Together, we can create invaluable experiences for our students and contribute to the creative community.
Follow the link below to register
https://www.avalanche.ng/creativeacademy
Testimony Jaga Spreads Love with Community Support on Boxing Day
Gospel music trailblazer Testimony Jaga celebrated the festive season with a remarkable act of kindness, giving back to his fans and community during a memorable Boxing Day event. Following the successful release of his latest album earlier this December, Testimony Jaga hosted a charity outreach where he provided essential food items, including rice, Garri, and cash gifts, to hundreds of families.
The celebration followed the successful release of Testimony Jaga’s groundbreaking album, Fuji Rhapsody, earlier this December. Speaking on behalf of the artist, FireFly Innovations commended his commitment to both music and philanthropy. “Testimony Jaga’s generosity reflects his deep connection to his community and his passion for uplifting lives, both through his music and charitable acts,” the foremost PR company stated.
His new album, Fuji Rhapsody, has already garnered widespread acclaim, showcasing Testimony Jaga’s evolution as an artist and his dedication to empowering his community through music and generosity.
Fuji Rhapsody continues to make waves, further establishing Testimony Jaga as a revolutionary voice in gospel music.
Still basking in the euphoria of the success and viral impact of the ‘Oldie But Goldie Vol 1’ sensational mixtape, Aristos Band, has delivered yet another banger -Oldie But Goldie’ Vol 2.
‘Oldie But Goldie’ Vol 2 is a medley of some of your favourite highlife tunes delivered in the sweetest form. It’s a very electrifying, soul stirring rendition that captivates the mind of the listeners.
Aristos Band is one of the most versatile live bands in Nigeria today. A very professional yet very entertaining band that transcends cultural boundaries by the universal language of its music.
Aristos Band… The Life of The Party
Available on all streaming platforms. @aristosband
Aliu Gafar delivers stellar performance as Esusu in Femi Adebayo’s Seven Doors
Aliu Gafar Delivers a Stellar Performance as Esusu in Seven Doors
By Rtn. Victor Ojelabi
The much-anticipated movie series Seven Doors by Femi Adebayo has finally premiered, currently showing on Netflix, captivating audiences with its intricate storytelling and compelling characters.
The movie begins with a haunting scene of seven women under a mysterious spell leaping to their deaths from a waterfall, setting the tone for a gripping tale that unravels in Ilara Kingdom.
The series explores various societal issues, including corruption, greed, gluttony, family values, malicious conspiracies, and the delicate balance of law and order.
Central to its plot is the calamitous fate of Oba Adedunjoye, the Onilara of Ilara, whose failure to perform traditional rites—symbolised by knocking on seven doors—unleashes devastating consequences on his kingdom.
At the heart of this chaos is Esusu, a malevolent and exiled villain whose return wreaks havoc.
Esusu, a ni ohun t’Eledumare o ni.
Eledumare o ni ika, ika ni Esusu
The character of Esusu, pivotal to the story’s depth, is masterfully brought to life by Aliu Gafar.
Gafar’s first appearance, late in Episode 2, immediately shifts the narrative, introducing a chilling force that spares no one, not even the royal family. His commanding portrayal encapsulates the essence of Esusu, a man whose wickedness defies comprehension.
The backstory reveals Esusu’s sinister pact with Ọba Adejuwọn, an ancestor of Adedunjoye.
Desperation led Adejuwon to seek Esusu’s help to evade death—a move that came at an unthinkable cost, forgetting that bi alọ ba lọ, abọ nbọ (a pendulum that swings to is still coming to swing fro).
Esusu’s return demanded not only royal treatment but the freedom to live as he pleased, challenging the very fabric of the kingdom.
Gafar embodies this complex character with remarkable precision, delivering a performance that is both chilling and unforgettable.
With almost two decades in Nollywood, Aliu Gafar has solidified his reputation as a versatile and dedicated actor.
His extensive filmography includes acclaimed productions such as Jagun Jagun, Anikulapo, Iyalode, Eefin, and Omo Ajele.
His role in Seven Doors further cements his legacy as a master of his craft, showcasing his ability to seamlessly portray multifaceted characters.
The Yoruba actor has also garnered accolades for his work, including the Best Actor award at the Dallas International Yoruba Movies Awards for his role in Peregun.
His commitment to the industry and his talent for captivating performances continue to make him a force to be reckoned with in Nollywood.
In Seven Doors, Gafar’s nuanced performance as Esusu elevates the series, demonstrating his ability to command attention and bring depth to a complex narrative.
His contribution to the Nigerian film industry remains invaluable, and his portrayal of Esusu is a testament to his enduring excellence.
Aristos Band releases ‘Battalion Praise’ thanksgiving medley
Aristos Band, a multiple award-winning music group, has released its much anticipated medley titled ‘Battalion Praise’.
‘Battalion Praise’ is a gospel rendition of melodious thanksgiving medley that cuts across different Nigerian tribes. It features a large ensemble of African percussions and sound that transports the listeners and audience into an atmosphere of euphoric praise to the Almighty.
The inspirational medley is currently available on all digital streaming platforms.
Aristos band was founded in 2008 by Sammy Sodeke, popularly known as “Sammy Sho” a veteran Keyboardist, Saxophonist, music producer/instructor who has played and directed music from within and outside the shores of Nigeria with vast experience in live music entertainment and music management.
BATTALION PRAISE IS available on all streaming platforms.
Full video on YouTube @aristosband
Aristos Band…The Life of The Party
Zanzibar to host next Trace Awards in February 2025… Celebrating Africa’s and Its Diaspora’s Top Music Talents
Trace, the leading Afro-Urban music and culture platform, proudly announces the
Trace Awards and Summit, 2025 edition, set to take place in Zanzibar, at the Mora
5* Resort, from February 24-26, 2025.
Building on the tremendous success of the last Trace Awards edition, which captivated over
500 million fans worldwide, this prestigious event will not only celebrate Africa’s top artists
but also spotlight the rich cultural stories that shape their artistry.
Over the past three years, Afro-centric music has steadily dominated global charts, spanning
genres like Afrobeat, Amapiano, Dancehall, Afro-pop, Zouk, Kizomba, Genge, Coupé Décalé,
Bongo Flava, Gospel, Hip Hop, Kompa, R&B, and Rumba. The Trace Awards stand as the
premier event, created in Africa for Africa and the world, recognizing and honoring the talents
that have driven this remarkable global success such as Burna Boy, Fally Ipupa, Davido, Tyla,
Rema, Wizkid, Diamond Platnumz, Nomcebo, Didi B, Yemi Alade, Ayra Starr and so many
more.
Event Details:
• Summit: February 24-25, 2025
• Awards: February 26, 2025
• Venue: The Mora 5* Luxury Resort, Zanzibar, Tanzania
The Trace Summit will be a dynamic hub for creative discussions, empowerment, and
networking, featuring panels, keynotes, and masterclasses on African creative industries,
technology, branding, and more. The event offers a unique platform for artists, managers,
DJs, producers, promoters, investors, lawyers, governments, brands, and industry
stakeholders from Africa and its diaspora to connect and exchange knowledge.
The Trace Awards will transform Zanzibar into a vibrant epicenter of music, culture, and
innovation. Hosted at the luxurious Mora Zanzibar resort, the Awards will showcase 28
categories of the most popular African music genres and artists, with live broadcasts in over
200 countries in English, French, and Portuguese. The event will air across 25 Trace African
and international channels, as well as more than 50 terrestrial, satellite, and streaming
partners, reaching an estimated audience of at least 500 million fans. The list of nominees will
be revealed on December 4th 2024. The public vote for the winners will start on the 18th
December 2024.
Nigerian government needs to invest more on filmmaking – Doyin Aggrey
Resourceful Nollywood actress and producer, Doyin Aggrey has called on the Nigeria government to invest more in filmmaking, as the sector is obviously capable of turning the country’s economy around.
Nigeria is one of the countries in the world currently going through economic recession, and this has resulted in a series of heated debates and protests from members of the public. But Doyin Aggrey believes that if the government at all levels can intensify their support to the entertainment industry, more fortune would smile on Nigeria.
She noted that though the entertainment sector has always exhibited the capacity of being Nigeria’s biggest export, recent feats recorded by Nollywood movies on international platforms like Netflix is enough evidence.
“The international community has identified Nollywood as a viable source of revenue, and they’re investing in it massively now. With the investment of platforms like Netflix and Prime Video, the standard of our filmmaking has tremendously improved, and it is a win-win situation for all parties. If the government can also take advantage of this, I’m sure Nigeria’s economy will bounce back because entertainment is our best export at the moment,” Aggrey stated.
She however advised aspiring actors to embrace a career in acting, only if they genuinely have the passion to do so. “Like I always tell people, acting is not a career you will choose simply because you see how rich and famous the practitioners are and you want to emulate their lifestyles. It doesn’t work like that, and trust me; it’s those who come into the industry with such motives that usually lament.
“If you don’t have passion for acting, surviving or enduring the challenges of the industry before becoming a celebrity would be impossible,” Aggrey warned.
Meanwhile, the Ijebu-Ode, Ogun State born filmmaker and producer of ‘Italian Gold’ is currently warming up to hit location for the shoot of another movie from her stables.
REDTV Premieres Season 2 of ‘When Are We Getting Married?’, Underscoring Support for African Creative Industry
REDTV, United Bank for Africa‘s Lifestyle and Entertainment channel, proudly announces the highly-anticipated launch of the second season of its hit show – ‘When are we getting married’.
The captivating series, renowned for its unique blend of romance, humour, and real-life relationship dynamics, promises its teeming viewers an even more engaging and thrilling experience in its latest series.
With top hits such as Unintentional, Mighty, The Men’s Club Season 1-3, and other popular shows like Our Best Friend’s Wedding, Inspector K, Assistant Madams, RedHot Topics, Hotel Boutique and a host of other entertaining content, award-winning lifestyle channel REDTV, is keen on developing and nurturing talent across the continent.
Executive Producer, REDTV, Bola Atta, who emphasised the channel’s passion to groom creativity and youth empowerment, expressed her excitement about the new season, adding, “We are thrilled to bring back ‘When are we getting married?’ for its second season. The show has resonated with audiences, and we are committed to delivering even more compelling content that explores the intricacies of love and relationships. This season is packed with surprises, laughter, and heartfelt moments that viewers won’t want to miss.”
Speaking on the bank’s continuous support to entertainment and the lifestyle channel, UBA’s Group Head, Marketing and Corporate Communication, Alero Ladipo, maintained that the bank is committed to nurturing creative endeavours that resonate with its diverse audience while entertaining its viewers and customers.
She said, “REDTV has consistently demonstrated its ability to deliver compelling lifestyle content, and our ongoing collaboration reflects UBA’s dedication to fostering innovation and entertainment. We are indeed excited about the positive impact our support has on the channel’s growth, and we look forward to more exciting projects that captivate audiences across the globe.”
As REDTV continues to push the boundaries of entertainment, ‘When are we getting married?’ stands out as a must-watch series for anyone seeking quality content that reflects the vibrancy of modern relationships.
Viewers can Tune in to REDTV on YouTube for a delightful journey into the world of love, laughter, and endless entertainment.
REDTV is a fast-paced lifestyle channel that puts Africa on the global stage. Proudly powered by UBA, the network aims to entertain and inform through rich and engaging content that feature the very best of Africa focused on fashion, news, music, sports, drama, travel and much more. The channel collaborates with the most talented visionaries and creative minds who dare to believe in a New Africa, putting together content that reflects its vision
Nigerian-American singer, Samson Bademosi, aka Samsix, says he sings better than most artiste that sings Afrobeat.
Samsix, a promising and ambitious singer and songwriter who just dropped his latest single ‘shining star’ said the fact that most artiste lyrics are filled with Yoruba language is a limitation for them because of those who don’t understand the language. “It’s seems some of them don’t have anything to sing again and looks more like they are microwaving old songs.
Also, most afrobeat artiste rely on auto tune and studio effects” Samsix alleged. Rest assured that Samsix can sing acapella, and without special studio voice effects and still sound incredible. This is also due to Samsix’s early journey into singing coupled with his musical background in the church and choir. Pictures are seen of Samsix playing the drums since the early age of 4 years old.
Samsix whose song, Shining Star is gaining massive airplay on radio and appearing on top radio stations for interview said “What makes some of the artiste’s songs irresistible is the beat which shows they work with very good producer most times”. If I have the kind of exposure and opportunities at the disposal of some of them, I will show how versatile I am and how best I can utilize all the fantastic beats being made for them”.
Samsix first attempt at music came when he was 11 years old at Six Flags Theme Park, Bowie, Maryland, USA when he participated in a singing competition sponsored by a radio station and Disney World and came second.
His journey and passion for music while at Redeemers University had already blossomed, and this led to the recording of his first song “Walking On Clouds” at Knight House Studio, Yaba, Lagos.
Samsix professionally has released songs like Against All Odds, Delilah, Remember, Make it Out, Complicated, Going Down, Do for love, Fight for you, Kilode, Runaway among others.
Speaking on his plans for the year, Samsix said, “I am going to drop shining star video very soon. Also, watch-out for another single which is a collaboration with an international musician. In fact, there are so many on the shelve of my record label, Royal Magic Records, just watch-out”.
Testimony Jaga: Winning Souls for God with Music, Charity
As far as gospel music goes, Testimony Jaga, one of that genre’s contemporary torchbearers, is a non-conformist. All over the world, gospel music is about the pure and the holy, sublime, soothing, spiritual, and soul-stirring. But away from the old, predictable style of gospel music, Jaga has taken the road never travelled to be the purveyor of feel-good and spirit-filled gospel music while imprinting his name in the sands of time.
A multiple-awards winning singer, instrumentalist, and producer, Jaga’s infusion of Fuji, otherwise considered backstreet music, to his craft caught on like wildfire and has turned him into a bona fide music star with a rich repertoire including the very popular ‘Biggie Biggie,’ ‘Not Normal ft Akpororo,’ ‘My Style,’ ‘My Evidence ft Frank Edwards,’ and ‘Power in my praise’ among many others.
The Ogun State native whose real name is Salau Aliu describes his style of music as Fuji-pop. His debut Extended Play record titled ‘Jesus is Here, Jaga is Here,’ is a seven-tracker that underscores his versatility as he seamlessly blended Fuji, afro beats, R n B, highlife, and dancehall to give Christendom an invaluable musical gift. The EP, a reflection of his life’s journey delivered via uplifting lyrics, features collaborations with other gospel singers like Adeyinka Alaseyori, Henrisoul, and Neon Adejo.
Finding Christ at a most vulnerable time in his life, Jaga, a street-savvy boxing buff, has now gone back to the streets but this time as the founder of Street Gospel Movement, an evangelical outreach that employs the twin forces of music and social welfare to win souls for God. According to him, so much is hidden in poverty and that for any man to even want to listen to the gospel; he must have quenched raging hunger.
Also, the convener of the One Jesus, One Church, One Hallelujah, Jaga, a protégé of Pastor Chris Oyakhilome of Christ Embassy, had been stomping Lagos streets under the auspices of what he terms Radical Prayer through which he reaches out to the unemployed, youths, and widows. Jaga added, “I am passionate about impacting the lives of as many people as possible. The essence of Christianity is actually to spread love, which are the principles I live by. Spreading the gospel to the streets and the ‘unchurched’ (people who don’t attend churches) through my Street Gospel Movement.”
Jaga said he is motivated to do all that he does because he is a product of the streets and had experienced bare-faced poverty growing up. “When people come to our program, we feed them with soul-lifting music, the word of God, and empower them. I believe in making an impact in people’s lives. So far, we have reached out to over 20,000 people since we started. Apart from giving out interest-free cash grants ranging from N100,000 to N250,000, we have given out cars, tricycles, and mini-buses among others,” he said.
Last Christmas, with support from Pastor Oyakhilome, Jaga gifted food items including rice, eggs, and chickens to hundreds of Lagos residents. On January 12, 2024, he will hold his annual mega outreach in the Alagbado area of Lagos, and he said there would be so much more to empower people with while encouraging them to accept Jesus as their Lord and saviour.
