Pia Mia vs Phyno: According to collaborator DeCarlo, Phyno has no rights to “I’m A Fan”

Posted on by The Native

In what seems like an upturned conclusion to a story that ripped through the Nigerian media nearly two weeks ago, American singer Pia Mia seems to have been cleared of accusations that she appropriated Phyno’s track, “I’m A Fan”. Last month, Native tweeted an audio mash-up of “I’m A Fan” by rapper Phyno, off his 2016 Playmaker album and American singer, Pia Mia’s similarly titled and composed version.

After the news made rounds with some media outlets implying Phyno may have released his version without full permission from the original creators, the rapper was quick to come online to rebuff the claims. He further indicated that his team would release a statement detailing their side of the story. Though the continued silence from Pia Mia’s camp allowed the Nigerian internet to run wild with speculations, it was apparent from the start that songwriter, DeCarlo, who is featured on Phyno’s version, held the key to solving the puzzle of how these two similar songs came to be.

True to that initial conclude, songwriter, DeCarlo has come out to affirm that Pia Mia’s version of “I’m A Fan”. A press statement made by DeCarlo via PR Agency, Bobby Taylor reads: “I wrote the original demo of “I’m A Fan” and pitched it to various artists. I worked with Pia Mia and Jeremih on the track, and their song is the only version authorized”. The songwriter also took to his twitter account to repeat excerpts of the statement.

This means, for starters, that Nigerian blogs that immediately took to attacking Pia Mia, would have to start rolling back those headlines to prevent a defamation suit. It also means, Phyno may be looking at trouble ahead, except DeCarlo doesn’t press forward with charges. However, to truly put this to a heel, a statement from Phyno’s team is still required. It’s hard to tell if the fact that he released his version of “I’m A Fan” earlier means Phyno was one of the artists DeCarlo initially pitched to, but it no doubt confirms earlier reports that Phyno’s process of acquiring rights for the release may have been dodgy.

While we await Phyno’s statement, we must remind you that this is still a developing story.

Here are four possible explanations for the existence of Pia Mia’s “I’m a fan”

“It’s Not a Lie” shows a Dbanj who has learnt from lessons of the past

Posted on by The Native

Words by Ehimenim Agweh 

If we were to be really honest, then we would agree that Dbanj’s best days were with Mo’Hits. His harmonica playing, slightly rapping, mostly talking and very risque self was on full display and it endeared him to a lot of listeners. Then the split happened and we thought we had lost the Kokomaster for good.

After a brief stint at G.O.O.D. Music and a seemingly indefinite hiatus from the music scene, Dbanj is doing a reunion of sorts and showing the world that he isn’t asleep. With Harrysong and Wande Coal as his wingmen, Dbanj released a teaser of the video for his song, ‘It’s not a lie’, a track on his coming album.

“It’s Not a Lie” shows a Dbanj who has learnt from the lessons of the past with an optimism for the future as he delivers the styles of Old Dbanj, G.O.O.D. Music Dbanj and The Dbanj of now seamlessly. It’s peak performer and Dbanj is serving all sides with a dash of drama.

The King-Don-Come album comes at a time when Nigerian music is enjoying massive international airplay, a wave Dbanj first helped to start even though he couldn’t sustain it initially. The tracklist which was posted today on Twitter has ten tracks and two bonus ones.

This is his fourth album so far. While the release date for the album has not been confirmed yet, check out  the full Video release for “It’s not a lie” below:

NB: THIS IS AN UPDATED VERSION OF THE ORIGINAL POST MADE SOLELY FOR THE TEASER VIDEO AND TRACKLIST.

Featured Image credit: Instagram/iambangalee

The Shuffle: Revisit D’banj’s “Oliver Twist”, a viral campaign that put Afropop on British Soil

‘Black Panther’ is coming and this first look trailer is everything

Posted on by The Native

Brace yourselves…

Marvel has released everything from teaser trailer, to first look poster and an official synopsis to get our heart and mind ready for super-hero flick, “Black Panther”. Black Panther, the Marvel character, made his onscreen debut last year in “Captain America: Civil War”. Chadwick booseman who plays the African leader and warrior would be reprising the role alongside Lupita N’yongo, Michael B. Jordan, Angela Basset, Daniel Kaluuya, Forest Whitaker, Letitia Wright, Martin Freeman, Danai Gurira, Winston Duke, and Andy Serkis.

Well, a fantasy movie with mostly an all black cast, with two non-black actors playing a major role. Beautiful. The last time this happened was in “Meteor Man” about 25 years ago.

Here is the little synopsis to get our minds around what’s been cooking up since 2014, actually 1966 since the Marvel comic character first appeared in “Fantastic Four Vol. 1” Issue 52.

“Black Panther” follows T’Challa (as played by Booseman) who, after the death of his father, the King of Wakanda, returns home to the isolated, technologically advanced African nation to succeed to the throne and take his rightful place as king. But when a powerful old enemy reappears, T’Challa’s mettle as king—and Black Panther—is tested when he is drawn into a formidable conflict that puts the fate of Wakanda and the entire world at risk,” Marvel Studios said in a press release. “Faced with treachery and danger, the young king must rally his allies and release the full power of Black Panther to defeat his foes and secure the safety of his people and their way of life.”

After an announcement in October 2014, by Marvel Studios president Kevin Feige that “Black Panther” would be released on Nov. 3, 2017, with Boseman in the leading role, the release date was later pushed back three months. It’s now set for a February 16, 2018 release date in U.S theaters.

“Black Panther” is coming just after other Marvel Studios epic cinema flicks including “Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 2” which has been showing in cinemas since May 5th, “Spider-Man: Homecoming” (set for July 7, 2017), “Thor: Ragnarok” (November 3, 2017) and “Avengers: Infinity War” which comes just after “Black Panther” next year, set for May 4, 2018.

“Black Panther” is directed by Ryan Coogler and produced by Kevin Feige with other members aboard the team. Ryan Coogler & Joe Robert Cole wrote the screenplay.

If only Coogler shot “Black panther” in an African country. But it’s to late to pine for that. The Cast is great and the teaser-trailer has us hooked already. Watch it below

Feature Image Credit: Marvel Studios

ICYMI: Get ready to see David Oyelowo as Harold Soyinka in 2018

Maleek Berry takes on the streets of Surulere for “On Fire” video

Posted on by The Native

We have not seen Maleek Berry out of the green room some of his previous video releases like “kontrol” and “Eko Miami” have been shot in. So it’s interesting to see him shoot the visuals of his new release “On Fire” on the streets of Shitta, Surulere. Maleek’s previous EP  Last Daze of Summer released in September last year went (and is still going) beyond marketing his brand of Afropop to a more diverse international mainstream audience as well as turning mainstream attention to modern Nigerian music like no other. “On Fire” is going to do just this and even more too these coming days of summer, as the British-Nigerian producer/artist takes another good attempt to connect with the indigenes of his country.

The new release is filled with good vibes and it’s lyrics captures all what Maleek Berry has become and what is expected of one whose hardwork has “got [him] the wave now and he’s in his city”, as he trolls on his self-produced beat.

https://www.instagram.com/p/BVAJqAujYH9/?taken-by=maleekberry

Although the DirectorK-directed video for “On Fire” is primarily set in one location, the high & low angles of youths and children full of cheerful high spirits is just enough to take your mind away from that to appreciating the boisterous energy of Lagos.

Watch his new video below.

Feature Image Credit: Youtube/MaleekBerry “On Fire”

ICYMI: Maleek Berry and Seyi Shay Shimmer on British DJ Star.One’s “Okay”

Dusten Truce and 3rty take the love song and spin it on it’s head on “Butterfly”

Posted on by The Native

I’ll be the first to admit, while Nigerians like a good party bop every now and then, as a people we simply cannot resist a great highlife influenced love song. There is something about those horn sections and a bass guitarist letting loose on a song that makes us wanna grab a lover and shimmy across the room. But that is pretty much all that is conventional about “Butterfly”, X3M signee, Dusten Truce’s first official single for 2017.

For one, Dusten Truce taps 3rty (who is having a great year as well with “Sunday Morning”, the first single off his collaborative project with Kid Marley) to feature on the song. 3rty also produces, and he does a bang up job of finding that sweet spot between afropop and high-life. What really is intriguing about “Butterfly” is how Truce flips the common trope of the Lagos Side Piece. Instead of trying to publicly control a stream of lovers, the narrator of Butterfly, chooses instead to remain a shadowy character in their lives, offering companionship on their terms. He doesn’t want to claim her, content to remain a side piece, a casual lover with no claim to her time, her body and her love. He is the new age polyamorist, his life a revolving door. It’s a peculiar stance to take, considering the unreliable narrator of “Butterfly” is a Lagos Big Boy with a reputation to protect, but this seems the eventual future of romance in Lagos.

With mixing and mastering by Marqai, stellar guitar work by David Aloba and extra vocal work by Adewale Oladimeji and Taiwo “Tyler” Oladimeji, “Butterfly” is a strong start to a year for Dusten Truce.

Time for everyone else to catch up.

Listen to “Butterfly” here.

Listen to Dusten Truce go social justice warrior on Pablo dieziani 1.0

Bright outdoors and lush colours make Falz’ “Jeje” video a ravishing artwork

Posted on by The Native

After releasing the audio to his new single “Jeje” just about a day ago, Falz wastes no time to follow up with colourful visuals shot under the shining sun of Accra.

https://www.instagram.com/p/BVG8BGxBjBd/?taken-by=falzthebahdguy

The video, shot and directed by Mex, begins casually with Falz taking a haircut when he sights a beauty going to the rich fruit & vegetable market across him. As random as the video’s concept is, it’s the creativity behind each shot that gets you hooked –along with Falz’s dance moves & humour at the utterance of “Je je je je je ly…stinking, disgusting” of course.

But it’s no-brainer thinking of how the delivery of the visuals is expertly done, we can’t expect any less from Mex, whose work on “Jeje” has got us just as pleased after watching Ebisan’s “Ice cold Water” video yesterday. In one particular near-perfect shot from “Jeje”, the bright blue sky, meets a Falz adorned in a darker shade of blue while pink tints of his trucker hat and vintage setting complete the colour scheme. It’s so picture perfect, it almost deserves a frame.

You can get a glimpse for yourself here.

Featured Image Credits: Youtube/FalzVevo “Jeje”

Read Up: Falz’s is a bahd guy but he’s stuck in love for new single, “Jeje”

See what happens when Ebisan tries to reclaim lost love in video for “Ice Cold Water”

Posted on by The Native

When Ebisan released the audio to her single, “Ice cold Water” in march, she gave us the chills with heart felt vocals and lyrics that create vivid imagery of the story she weaves into her song: the sensation of being dunked in ice cold water as a metaphor for the feeling she gets when she tries to return to an ex who once admitted undying love, but has now moved on. Now, the Aristokrat record signee graces us with visuals that just portrays better what we could have imagined.

https://www.instagram.com/p/BVFy6o_gfhz/?taken-by=theebisan

Although the montage of images & video clips in “Ice Cold Water”‘s video, shot by Mex, may seem to lack discontinuity, the variety of images and quivering video shots are all related. After all in the situation Ebisan’s persona is in, in the song, she is all stupefied with different things running into her mind at the sight of seeing her ex-lover with another woman.

Mex is sharp-witted in the video’s delivery; two goldfishes swimming in the bowl turn into a single fish, a little girl is shown letting go of strings to balloons that float into the sky but return as tattered elastic. They are bright metaphors that subtly imply, the sinking and empty feeling of throwing away things we still need, a theme Ebisan’s “Ice Cold Water” is deeply trenched in.

Peep the video below.

Featured Image Credit: Youtube/Icecoldwater via The Ebisan Channel

ICYMI, Read Up: Ria Boss’ “Carefree” Is A Snapshot Of Self-Love From A Black Girl’s Eyes

Wizkid and Chris Brown’s “African Bad Gyal” finally gets official release

Posted on by The Native

It’s been nearly two years since Chris Brown first invited Wizkid on stage in South Africa for a brief performance of “African Bad Gyal”, but we finally have an official single. The Starboy is in the final roll-out leg ahead of his Sounds From The Other Side mixtape expected next month.

“African Bad Gyal” comes infused with the same Sarz Afro-EDM touch that created “In My Bed”. Wizkid and Chris Brown also set “African Bad Gyal” on typically Afro-tinged melody, a welcome deviation from the Starboy’s recent comfort with the Caribbean whine-friendly slime. Unlike earlier singles, “Sweet Love” and “Come Closer”, where Wiz maintains an easy to memorise flow, “African Bad Gyal”, alternates various vocal drawls from slurry patois, to pidgin quips and Yoruba poesy.

Clearly, Wiz has learnt a thing or two about song composition because the best part of “African Bad Girl” is not in Wizkid’s confidence or Chris Brown belting pidgin lyrics like a West African. Instead it’s in an effervescent synth-based instrumental hook with blaring horns and drums. Here, Wiz slyly affirms ‘Sarz On the Beat gan’ while the beat thrums in the background, a reminder that the duo’s creative relationship as producer an artist has thrived because there is always equal opportunity for both of them to own a spotlight on the same song.

Today is a Friday and DJ(s) across the continent are probably already shuffling “African Bad Gyal” into their set lists for the night. Sounds From The Other Side is not due for another few weeks, but with two prior singles that have been impossible to ignore, there are very little doubts about the magic, Wizkid is about to bring forth.

Listen to “African Bad Gyal” via Apple Music below.

Wizkid schools america on lagos parties, strip clubs and accents

Tekno and “Pana” Producer, Krizbeatz team up for “Samantha”

Posted on by The Native

At this point we kind of have to admit that Tekno may damn well be a genius. The singer’s row since the release of last year’s “Pana”, spilled into this year, with singles “Rara” and “Yawa” topping charts respectively. To wholly dominate the game, Tekno has spurred imitators and spread his genius across features and production work, at this pace there may be no stopping him from re-writing Afropop completely.

https://www.instagram.com/p/BVHS0VuApNb/?taken-by=teknoofficial

On “Samantha”, Tekno re-embodies all the things audiences love him for; a drum baseline, light-weight lyrics with a loose narrative and finely tuned melody on piano synths. Though Tekno sings of a “Samantha” , we are not quite sure he wants to be with. And true to his inherently child-like demeanour, he changes focus by mention of another Tinuke just before the close of the song.

Similar to the production works of “Pana”, Krizbeatz produces with some of his signature synths and instrumentation, it’s the exact kind Afro dance hall  song we’ve come to expect of the two.

Listen to Tekno’s “Samantha” below.

Feature Image Credit: Instagram/@Slimdaddy

ICYMI: Tekno, Wizkid, Mr Eazi and Davido up for BET Award

Listen to DJ X’s “Repete” featuring Minz

Posted on by The Native

Afropop is a double-edged sword for aspiring artists. On one hand, there’s a built-in audience driven to hear new releases for their dance parties. On the flip side, new artists have to be prepared to face criticism for opting on already established vibes made popular by the bigger Afropop artists. It’s commonly accepted that the Juls produced “Skin Tight” and Tekno’s “Pana” prod. by Krizbeatz, did well enough to force even the established artist to change their sound, but their laid back melodies have become the norm now and other upcoming artists are satisfied just riding that wave.

https://www.instagram.com/p/BVBK_4XBiVj/?taken-by=iamdeejayx

Being a DJ affords DeeJay X the opportunity to understand these dynamics of the soundscape and the savvy artists. Usually his releases are mere compilation tapes like his “New Year Mad Over You Mix” released earlier this year, but he seems ready to create his own hit with “Repete”. He features Minz who earned a spot on our best new music with “Story” and once again, the young talent gets production credit along with Mowizzy.

The dancehall number has a mid-tempo baseline and Minz sings with the laid back flow Mr Eazi is always so quick to attribute to himself. Combining charm and pop sensibility, Minz sings about a love interest using a call to dance narrative. The piano baseline is set to get bodies rocking on the dance floor with a tinge of guitar chords and flute harmonies.

Minz rides the wave of dance melodies to the point where he’s comfortable referencing the “Shoki” dance step on “Repete”. But it has worked well for him so far and we aren’t complaining (yet) cause he’s representing one of Nigeria’s coolest cultures. “Repete” might not be an instant favorite but it will do very well on dancefloors.

Listen to DeeJay X’s “Repete” below.

Featured Image Credits: Instagram/iamdeejayx

Watch Mr Eazi’s “Billboards” video showing his life on tour and being copied by other artists

Falz is in love again on new single, “Jeje”

Posted on by The Native

Falz’ quirky balance of humor and his music, has put him on a steady row for the past two years. First, he built a credible fan base off his viral comedy skits and even managed to get some more fans with his acting gigs. But what has made him a fan favorite is that he doesn’t sacrifice humor for credible content. More mind boggling though is how critics are forced to take him seriously when they could have roped him in the class of gimmicks like Vic. O.

https://www.instagram.com/p/BVCTEHchpoa/?taken-by=falzthebahdguy&hl=en

Falz has jested his way through serious topics like his pseudo-political “Wehdone Sir” and socially conscious “Chardonnay Music” but for his latest single, he sticks to a more convenient love theme. “Jeje” produced by Falz’s long time producer, Studio Magic, has an high-life instrumental created with guitar riffs and afro beats.

“Jeje” isn’t too big on plots because after listening, it’s still hard to decide if he, Falz, even wants to be with the girl or not. However, Falz brings his infamous brother Taju shtick for the verses, and takes on the chorus with attention, hitting notes that we’ve seen on previous attempts to sing.

Listen to “Falz’s “Jeje” here.

Featured Image Credits: Instagram/falzthebahdguy

ICYMI: Watch Falz’s hilarious appearance on Arsenal Fan TV

Dammy Krane may not be in the clear, but he has a new single, “On Point”

Posted on by The Native

If you were wondering why Dammy Krane kept repeating “On Point” even when he obviously isn’t, we finally have an answer. He was arrested in Miami last week for credit card crimes and got all the media buzz that comes with news of a Nigerian artist in a scandal of that magnitude. However, Tapjet’s threat via twitter to deal with the artist has also succinctly kept him on headlines.

https://www.instagram.com/p/BVFX1JSjTI9/?taken-by=dammykraneofficial&hl=en

Truth is however, Dammy Krane is no stranger to scandals. Since his fall out with former label and his publicized fight with Wizkid at Quilox, the singer has learnt to manage his scandals well, usually with a follow-up material release. It’s not certain yet if Dammy Krane is in the clear as the singer is still awaiting a court date since posting bail, but there is no doubt “On Point” will leverage some of the negative publicity around him for reach.

“On Point” is a love themed number produced by Kenny Wonder who uses a primarily guitar baseline held by pianos and high beats per minutes drums. The mixing sounds rushed but Dammy Krane obviously doesn’t mind as he dedicates the songs to his female fans. Though “On Point” doesn’t say anything about his current crisis, the cover art is where that lies, as it shows him wearing a crown in his mugshot and a catch phrase beneath stating “Let he who is without sin cast the first stone”. But praising his fans and calling them “African Mama” won’t be quite enough if he still turns out guilty of the crimes he’s being accused of.

Listen to Dammy Krane’s “On Point” here. And click on the Feature Image embedded above to check out the full cover art.

Featured Image Credits: Twitter/360nobs

ICYMI: Breaking Down Dammy Krane VS TapJets, The Credit Card Scam and Long Years Imprisonment

Finding Tekno: Mr Eazi whips fans into search for Afropop star in his new video “Short Skirt”

Posted on by The Native

Words by Ehimenim Agweh 

If Mr Eazi thinks he can just step into Twitter and cause commotion, then unfortunately he might be right.

When Mr Eazi’s video for “Short Skirt” came out on Monday, there was applause from his fans. But the real commotion began when he challenged his legion of fans to embark on an Ultimate Search-style rampage to find one person in the video:

Tekno.

https://twitter.com/mreazi/status/872409493086375938

While some people might scoff and laugh at it, Mr Eazi offered a $1000 cash prize. That’s when the ball really started rolling and Nigerian Twitter was on the move. He even tried to offer clues to aid the search.

https://twitter.com/mreazi/status/872410078300827648

In spite of the best efforts of the hounds on the case, it seems like a different person might be turning up instead.

See Twitter’s reaction to Mr Eazi’ search for Tekno

To enjoy the craziness from the challenge, here are some of the best tweets to get you laughing

https://twitter.com/mreazi/status/872410078300827648

https://twitter.com/TrueCoaster/status/872410616618782721

Featured Image Credit: YouTube/TeknoMilesVEVO

Read up: How to build a sustainable brand 101 according to Mr Eazi

A Gracies Awards Win for Stephanie Busari, Broadcaster & Producer at CNN Nigeria

Posted on by The Native

Behind every great woman is determination and strength. And what could even seem greater is when these women’s hard work is recognised and they’re crowned for it. This is the case with “Alliance for Women in Media Foundation” who began giving women honorary wins for their work in the media 42 years ago. The award ceremony is similar to Mo Abudu’s EbonyLife TV Sisterhood Awards, committed to supporting women across all media segments, expand networks, educate and celebrate accomplishments. All targeted at empowering women.

The ceremony for the 2017 Alliance for Women in Media Foundation (AWMF) handed out the 42nd annual Gracie Awards -Which is popularly known as The Gracies – were held this week, at the Beverly Wilshire Hotel in Beverly Hills, Callif.

At the award ceremony, Stephanie Busari, was honoured under the Television GALA honourees for her role in CNN as a producer of News. It’s both the first AWMF nomination and obviously first win for the Journalist of Nigerian descent, who moved to Lagos from London last year, to pioneer CNN’s first digital and multimedia bureau at its then-newly launched office.

She’s previously worked across some of the network’s most important African stories, including the CNN’s coverage of the missing Chibok girls.

https://www.instagram.com/p/BVEDNDJBZOk/

Gracie Awards celebrates female luminaries on and off screen for outstanding achievements across radio, television, cable and interactive media. Hosted award recipients alongside Stephanie includes Women of NASA from the award winning political-drama ‘Hidden Figures’, actor and filmmaker, Drew Barrymore and a host of others you can check out here.

Feature Image Credit: Instagram/StephanieBusariCnn

Incase you missed it: Wunmi Mosaku Wins her First BAFTA TV Award for Best Supporting Actress

Destiny Boy’s ‘IF’ cover is the most fuji thing you’ll see all day

Posted on by The Native

Words by Ehimenim Agweh

Fuji is having a mainstream moment now thanks to Small Doctor and if you’ve never heard of Destiny Boy, then you’ve got to stop sleeping. The most Fuji thing you will see all day is his cover of Davido’s “IF”.

And you thought Small Doctor was Fuji’s only shining star.

https://www.instagram.com/p/BU2Nn2NlvbO/?taken-by=iam_destinyboy

13 year old Destiny Boy gave his own contribution to the hit song with a Pasuma-style cover that would have sounded a lot better if his producer toned-down the screeching levels of auto-tune. Still, Destiny Boy’s innate gruffness and ability to hit high notes at unexpected moments are truly the brightest spots of the cover. His vocal dexterity is a marvel and the skill with which he maneuvers the highs and lows of “IF” are the stuff of talent. Although he delivers the song with a faster tempo and a party vibe, Destiny Boy’s cover is a jam and we can’t help dancing to it.

Listen to the cover here and watch the video of Destiny Boy in the studio below. 

Feature Image Credit: Instagram/iam_destinyboy

Read Up: Small Doctor: Storyteller, street ambassador and the last of his kind

Wizkid schools America on Lagos parties, strip clubs and accents

Posted on by The Native

Words by Ehimenim Agweh

Wizkid’s radio appearances have increased by one as he spent the countdown to the B.E.Ts with radio hosts, Kev and DJ Damage at Los Angeles station, Real 92.3.

Armed with a slew of accents, his now not-so-shocking blonde hair, the usual hoodie & shades get up, Wizkid fields question after question as the hosts grills him on his life, music, fatherhood and Nigeria. When asked if he is the Jay Z of Africa, he smugly replied ‘I am still Wizkid.’ Point taken.

A laid back attitude and the curiosity of the hosts were a great mix as Wizkid gave the hosts and listeners the lowdown on the club scene in Nigeria, the party music in Lagos, comparing the strip clubs in Nigeria and America and demonstrated how well he could switch between accents. He even extended an invitation to the hosts to come to Nigeria for a DJ gig.

Wizkid’s Sounds From The Other Side mixtape is expected for release in July and it seems like Wizkid is already making all the media rounds to promote the upcoming tape.

Watch the interview here

Feature Image Credit: Instagram/ Wizkidayo

Read Up: Mr Eazi’s “Skintight” refix by Wizkid and Justine Skye surfaced online and we can’t believe it

WAFFLESNCREAM present: Go Skate Day Lagos 2017

Posted on by The Native

 

WAFFLESNCREAM, the brand many consider to be the leading frontier of skating in Nigeria, are further pushing the envelope to commemorate a worldwide skating holiday. The community-focused brand are planning to celebrate International SkateDay by hosting the first ever skate jam over a two-day period.

On June 21st,  they will be showcasing legendary skate films from the past decade at their flagship store in Lagos, as well as an exclusive premiere of the second skate edit “Linda”, which is slated for release in the fourth quarter. In addition to this, there will be various activities and raffles designed to promote local skateboarding.

Three days later on June 24th, WAFFLESNCREAM will partner with The NATIVE and Red Bull NG  to host the first skate jam in Lagos, in celebration of the growing skateboarding scene. The skate jam will also feature showcases from similarly popular extreme sports in the city, as BMXers will be invited to join the festivities.

Peep the poster below for full details, and see you there.

 

WAFFLESNCREAM Skate Shop

234 Muri Okunola road,

Victoria Island,

Lagos State. Nigeria

 

www.wafflesncream.com

Documenting Nigerian skate culture with Leonard, Slawn and onyedi

Essentials: Here are five of the most definitive tracks by Odunsi

Posted on by The Native

Not many Nigerian artists achieved a clear cut at the age of Odunsi’s in the early days of their career. But this isn’t the case for Odunsi The Engine, whose Engine has been running steady before and since he decided to pursue his career professionally in the first month of 2016. Since then, he’s been toiling on a path that has been made clear for him through privileges, howbeit, his hard work and focus plays a major role.

Odunsi’s growth could only have been seen by a clairvoyant. He says in an interview with Okay Africa, he himself didn’t see it coming that by the time he has walked more than two decades in life, he would have remarkably landed a spot on Spotify’s Viral 50, a feature on Billboard’s playlist and two comprehensive body of works: Time of Our Lives and War EP. His +1 leap into another year should also be clear-cut to leaving progeny matters behind. At this point, Odunsi is having fun with the music making process, being in the same sect of those we expect to push the Afro-culture forward. In honour of his birthday, we are doing a count down of his 5 most definitive work from his small but extensive catalogue.

5. “Adura”

https://soundcloud.com/odunsi/adura

“Adura” was released in 2016 and directly translates as ‘prayer’ in English. Odunsi’s narrative on the track is just succinct enough to embody where he was at that point of his career. Odunsi croons, “working everyday for promotion, failure no be my portion” on a mid tempo beat produced by himself with steady assists by Ghost, GMK and God who’s got his back. Well, his journeying so far clarifies any dubiety about his success. After his “Situationship” landed him his Billboard win, earning him more audience and a wider reach. And if “Adura” were truly a prayer, it’s clear it interceded neatly for his succeeding releases and level of fame.

4. “Lose U”

His unlikely Afro soul work of art on “Lose U”was our best new music last month. The single has all the markings of a cult collectible in years to come and it comes with the brevity of fleeting emotions. The innate ambiance of the track leaves you wanting more at the end of the 1 minute 33 seconds track. Albeit everything he says on the track is made clear on the chorus that he’ll persevere on his own in spite of any loss he encounters.

3. “Desire”

Released in February, “Desire” marked Odunsi’s entrance into 2017 as his first official single for the year, featuring Bantu Music’s Tay Iwar and The Collectiv3’s Funbi. “Desire” takes off on ambient synths and slightly reverted vocals, and listens like the exact kind of neo-Afro-R&B song you’d expect from Odunsi, Funbi and Tay Iwar. Although none of his collaborators feature on the visuals released for the single in the early days of last month, he brings pretty images to life with red accents and beige tints across shots filmed in Chinese Village, Ojota, Lagos. Even better when you know it was shot using a smart phone.

2. “Situationship”

“Situationship”, the one that earned him the big fish —if you deign to call it that— on two critically acclaimed platforms. With a lyrical sample “Whether you like am, whether you no like am” from Eldee-Led Trybes Men crew single, “Shake Bodi”, Odunsi sings about wanting no complications from a ‘so-what-are-we?’ relationship on a mid tempo beat featuring Aylo. On this song along with most of his other releases, Odunsi has shown a mastery of sampling songs to create a feel of nostalgia without actually biting off the person by riding on the same wave, but rather curating and creating his own sound.

1. “Happy Hour”

Odunsi’s success story proves among other things that with careful attention to quality production and lyrical content, Nigerian songs have the potential to be dancehall hits around the world. “Happy Hour” was released at a time when Afropop was already thriving globally, but instead of settling for just the vibe, Odunsi pushes the boundaries of dance pop. Here, he fused his Afropop melodies with an EDM baseline and it turned out to be a genius idea. “Happy Hour” is laid-back but it remains hollow till Odunsi’s imagery as he sings “Ehin ara wa gbemi lo”, makes it more compelling. Okuntakinte features and his verse gives the song just enough edge to make it memorable.

Featured Image Credit: Instagram/Odunsitheengine

Essentials: Odunsi And Nonso Amadi’s ‘War’ Is The EP They Need At This Point In Their Career

The MockingBird’s “96” is the perfect balance between vibe and substance

Posted on by The Native

We are in the age of the curator, from meticulously arranged playlists to Odunsi and Nonso Amadi’s recent decision to release a joint project. As it becomes easier to wholly translate our identities through these careful assemblages of things we fuck with, good taste has taken on a new leveraging power. The MockingBird has shown a curious understanding of this with his releases staying away from the conventional Nigerian sound. Between his 808 machine instrumentals and trap rap style that manages to touch all themes from love to flexing to conceptual and sartorial wisdom, he remains just one hit track away from resonating with this generation of rap fans.

https://www.instagram.com/p/BU7xOkEBSYj/?taken-by=kingbird06

The singer, songwriter, producer and rapper has released a new single, “96” and it has all the right feels to spell triumph for personal taste. The piano baseline is haunting as it echoes and even the peppy snare drum riffs don’t cheer the somber ambience. Kid Cudi inspired instrumental serves as the perfect platform for The Mockingbird to address his trust issues saying “Just be a normal Nigerian boy/Life is a bitch keep a watch while you snooze”. His double entendre would go unnoticed if he didn’t keep it up till it becomes obvious how much careful thought goes into writing each line.

The subject matter for “96” is a love interest who he describes as night and day. But he builds the narrative in such a way that he can reference Kendrick Lamar’s “Pool full of liquor so we dive in it” line while shading Nigerian rappers; “Favorite verse from my favorite rappers/ food for my thoughts but it’s making me nauseous”.

Artists who uphold clever lyrical content while going the trap route are the exception and not the rule. Even in America, trap artists till recently were regarded as second class citizens in the hip-hop community. But The MockingBird’s “96” is as much vibe as it is substance. He manages to make a lasting impression of his point of view beyond the fact that it’s lit.

Featured Image Credits: Instagram/Kingbird06

Listen to Zee Cold Island’s attempt to break into soul royalty with “Hall of Fame”

Listen to Chimzy’s motivational “Thank You” featuring Denzel Oaks

Posted on by The Native

Choosing a subject matter is a crucial first step before creating any work of art. Some will preach avoidance of cliches but there’s no denying that cliches became commonplace because they work. The working formula for musicians especially from this part of the world is woven so deeply in spirituality that it has become religious for artists to speak like they have it figured out. With a few exceptions, Nigerian songs might as well be motivational speeches talking about their success stories and Chimzy’s is as religious as it gets on “Thank You”.

https://www.instagram.com/p/BU7M_pflD4p/?taken-by=_chimzy

Singing over a laid back poly-synth baseline and clap drums, Chimzy explains how his dreams have come true which is clever because you can’t claim to know what he dreams about. What is ironic however is that he swears his life is changing when in fact the lyrics of “Thank You” are reminiscence of his “Bad Guy” single released nearly a year ago. The only distinguishing factor between both songs and other  releases is that this time he’s attributing his riches to God.

Chimzy remains fixated on the subjects of affluence and like the “Wavy” track where he and Denzel Oaks were featured on, “Thank You” proves he is still Lost In The Sauce. But he can get away with it because we’ve grown used to artists saying the most ridiculously showy things without fear of being called liars. Till date no one knows for sure if Davido’s bank account has as many zeros as he claims but “If” has continued to do so well. To ensure a similar success story, Chimzy features Denzel Oaks for “Thank You” and the rapper delivers confident bars with a laid back flow.

Listen to Chimzy’s “Thank You” below.

Featured Image Credits: Instagram/_chimzy

“If” is one of the legendary feet only Davido can pull off

2 Biopics set to redefine history: “Biggie: The Life of Notorious B.I.G.” & “Who Killed Tupac?”

Posted on by The Native

Judging from the tittle of the Biographies alone, “Biggie: The Life of Notorious B.I.G.” and “Who Killed Tupac?”, your mind gets a tad bit curious on how the true-life stories of these two Greatest Of All Time will be pulled off. But America’s cable Network, A&E has embarked on this mammoth undertaking to narrate the lives of  the late Christopher ‘Biggie’ Wallace and Tupac Shakur, who continue to impact the world two decades after their tragic and puzzling death(s).

The intimacy of the three-hour long “Biggie: The Life of Notorious B.I.G.” biography is clear-cut, with new interviews with those closest to Biggie and those who loved him most, including his widow Faith Evans, his mother Voletta Wallace, his close friends as well as Jay Z, Sean ‘Diddy’ Combs and Nas. This will be the first biography to be authorized by his estate and will allow the late Biggie to narrate his own life story as tough he were present by employing exclusive archived footages and audio recordings that haven’t been heard before.

This deep-seated documentary will also be centred on Faith Evans as she journeys towards reconciling her seething memories and emotions, his relationship with Lil’ Kim, his youth hustling on the streets, his rise to fame with his confidante and collaborator Sean ‘Diddy’ Combs, his feud with Tupac Shakur, and his murder on the streets of Los Angeles.

While “Who Killed Tupac?” is a six-part mini-series, which will follow renowned civil rights attorney Benjamin Crump, who has expertly & famously represented other victims of gun violence before including Trayvon Martin. On Tupac, he will conduct a never-before-done in-depth investigation into key theories behind the murder of Tupac Shakur, a celebrated rapper and actor.

Tupac’s mother, Afeni Shakur went to the same high school with Crump’s mum, when she saw how he’s been actively passionate about fighting for Truth & Justice for Trayvon Martin’s family, she expressed to him how important that was and that this fight is not just for Tupac and Trayvon, but for

“all our young black men who didn’t get justice.”

With this documentary, Crump seeks to show how all is related and relevant to what is happening in the social justice movement in America today.

For Tupac, his own words and exclusive interviews with family, friends, including Tupac’s brother Mopreme Shakur, as well as other members of his group Outlawz,  Quincy “QDIII” Jones III and a host of other colleagues and viewers will reveal every detail to understand his life and career.

A+E holds worldwide distribution rights for “Biggie: The Life of Notorious B.I.G.” and “Who Killed Tupac?”. The former is set to  premiere on September 4 (previously set for June 28); and the later which has also been moved, doesn’t have a specific date and time announced yet. The above is a first-look poster art released by the cable network for both projects.

Click on the feature image embedded above for a full view.

Read up: Michael Jackson’s Biopic to premiere on his Memorial Day – 25th June