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What Burna Boy Told Me In Person – Timilehin Ajagunna Writes

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1 year ago

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It’s interesting that Burna Boy’s new album title, ‘I Told Them,’ reminds me of a personal encounter with him from years ago. Burna Boy, whose real name is Damini Ebunoluwa Ogulu, is indeed a talented and outspoken artist who has made a significant impact on the music industry, not just in Nigeria but globally.

It’s not uncommon for artists to face skepticism or doubt from their own communities, especially early in their careers. Many artists, including Burna Boy, have faced challenges and criticism before achieving success. It’s inspiring to see him rise to a level where he can confidently say, ‘I told them,’ as it signifies his belief in his talent and his journey to success despite the initial doubts.

I first met Burna Boy in 2011, in Port Harcourt, the capital of Rivers state, when he was an up-and-coming artist. He had just returned from studying in the United Kingdom and instantly became a fan favorite with his hit track, “Abeg Abeg,” which later appeared on his debut album, L.I.F.E.

 

At the time, Port Harcourt’s music scene was dominated by Duncan Mighty, but Burna Boy brought a breath of fresh air with his unique style of music, which he described as Afro-Fusion. As a senior entertainment reporter with City People Magazine, I was in Port Harcourt for a show organized by my media house, which featured top artists like Ice Prince, Muma Gee and a host of others.

 

Ice Prince was the most popular musician in Nigeria at that time, thanks to his hit song ‘Óleku’ , but Burna Boy impressed everyone with his performance. I was immediately struck by his talent and knew that he was going to be a superstar. Over the next year, I kept visiting Port Harcourt regularly to keep up with the latest developments in the city’s music scene.

 

While I kept tabs on the Port Harcourt music scene, Burna Boy’s name always came up in conversations. Although not known in Lagos, he was already a big name in the oil-rich city. I decided to showcase him to Nigeria by using my platform, and he agreed to an interview.

 

Eventually, we arranged to have the interview at Aristokrats’s studio, located at Stadium Road, where he was to have a recording session with his then producer, Leriq. Before the interview, he played me an unreleased song called “Touch Your Toes.”
During the interview, Burna Boy told me about his plans to take over Nigeria with his music. He was confident in his ability to become a fan favorite, which he achieved with the release of his debut album L.I.F.E.

 

After dropping his debut album, L.I.F.E, Burna Boy established himself as a mainstream artist with his hit song “Like to Party.” He continued to push out good music, winning multiple awards, including a Grammy Award. Today, Burna Boy is Nigeria’s number one artist, and his talent knows no bounds. He can comfortably perform several genres of music, and his artistry has earned him a global following.

 

Burna Boy has gone beyond being just an African artist. He is now an international superstar who sells out tours across the world.

 

Looking back, I’m proud to have been a part of Burna Boy’s journey to superstardom. It’s been an incredible ride, and I can’t wait to see what he has in store for us next.

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Nigerian Art Icons Lemi Ghariokwu and Ini Dan to be Honored at Ojez Forum on Sunday

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1 day ago

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February 21, 2025

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A celebration of artistic excellence is on the horizon as the February edition of the Ojez Forum pays tribute to two giants of Nigerian art: Lemi Ghariokwu and Otunba Akang Ini Dan. The event will be held this Sunday at Ojez Lounge, National Stadium, Surulere, Lagos.

 

Lemi Ghariokwu, also known as Emmanuel Sunday, is a self-taught Nigerian visual artist celebrated for his distinctive and thought-provoking album cover designs. He is most recognized for his extensive collaboration with Afrobeat legend Fela Kuti, creating the artwork for 26 of Kuti’s albums. Ghariokwu’s art is distinguished by its vibrant colors, meticulous detail, and socio-political messages, reflecting African identity, activism, and cultural pride. His prolific career includes designing over 2,000 album covers for artists around the globe, including iconic figures such as Bob Marley, Miriam Makeba, and Lucky Dube. His work has been showcased in exhibitions worldwide.

Otunba Akang Ini Dan is the Managing Director and CEO of Fodak Production. He is also the founder and chairman of the Sister Heart and Visual Foundation, organizations dedicated to developing artistic talent and promoting Nigeria’s cultural heritage. As Vice President (South West) of the Society for Nigerian Artists, Otunba Dan has been a champion for artists’ rights and a facilitator of platforms for artistic expression.

 

The Ojez Forum is a monthly event that highlights individuals who have made significant contributions to the arts in Nigeria. This month’s gathering promises to be a special occasion, bringing together artists, enthusiasts, and patrons to celebrate the accomplishments of Lemi Ghariokwu and Otunba Akang Ini Dan. Attendees can anticipate engaging discussions, exhibitions, and performances showcasing the vibrant landscape of Nigerian art.

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KongaFM -103.7 Launches “Shop On Radio”

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5 days ago

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February 18, 2025

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For the first time in Africa, radio is no longer just about listening to music and advertisements; it’s added shopping. KongaFM -103.7, Nigeria’s pioneering Hit Music & Commerce radio station, is set to change the way Nigerians buy and sell with the official launch of “Shop On Radio.” On Monday 24th of February, 2025.

 

This is a game changer at a time Nigeria increased data cost by 50%.

 

This groundbreaking initiative, powered by an innovative partnership between KongaFM and Konga.com, turns live radio broadcasts into an interactive shopping experience, allowing listeners to place orders seamlessly, even without wasting so much cash on Data. Nigerian shoppers now have options with Konga.com and most importantly rock buttom prices on all items announced live on radio and delivered same day in lagos if orders are placed before 12noon.

 

Shoppers are encouraged to open a wallet with Kongapay.com as stock may be limited and orders shall be treated on first paid.

 

According to Mayowa Oladeji, Communications Lead at KongaFM, this marks a major shift in the e-commerce landscape.

“For the first time in Africa, radio is becoming an interactive shopping destination, bringing together millions of listeners and turning them into instant shoppers. We urge manufacturers and business owners to seize this opportunity by reaching out via WhatsApp, email, or Konga.com to showcase their products to a ready market.

Thanks to our innovative partnership, customers in Lagos who order during the show will enjoy guaranteed best prices and same-day delivery in Lagos, while we conclude logistics for same day delivery in other major cities of Nigeria before month of June this year, making shopping faster and more convenient than ever. This is a component of the future of commerce in Africa powered by KongaFM -103.7, streaming globally on kongafm.com 24hours every day.

 

How It Works

Listeners can tune in to “Shop On Radio” every morning from 7:00 AM – 8:00 AM and again in the evening from 5:00 PM – 6:00 PM. Products will be announced live on air, often with exclusive discounts, and customers can place orders instantly via WhatsApp or Konga.com. A KongaFM representative confirms the order, and for Lagos-based shoppers, delivery is completed the same day; a service made possible by Konga Logistics’ expanded fleet of 140 trucks, buses, and over 120 motorbikes.

Beyond Lagos, Nigerians across the country, and even in the diaspora, can participate by streaming live at kongafm.com, ensuring that no one is left out of this retail revolution.

A Win-Win for Shoppers and Businesses

With high internet costs, trust issues, and logistical inefficiencies still posing challenges to e-commerce in Nigeria, Shop On Radio offers a data-free, fast, and trusted alternative for both buyers and sellers.

 

For shoppers, this means exclusive deals, quick and easy WhatsApp ordering, and guaranteed same-day delivery in Lagos. For businesses, including manufacturers, distributors, retailers, and SMEs, this is a golden opportunity to reach a massive, engaged audience instantly and boost sales in real time.

Shoppers and merchants beyond Lagos can also seamlessly place orders or advertise their businesses, with Konga Logistics’ expanded fleet ensuring timely and efficient nationwide delivery.

 

To further enhance the experience, Konga.com has upgraded its call center to handle increased order volumes, ensuring smooth transactions and customer support.

More Than Just Shopping—A 24/7 Experience

KongaFM is more than a marketplace; it’s a dynamic platform designed to cater to diverse audiences. The station kicks off each day from 5 -7am with Morning Inspiration, featuring best global gospel music with uplifting words to start you day blessed captioned -Start your Day with God, and same All Sundays. It is inspiring both for Entrepreneurs, students, unemployed, employed and those retired. It is unbelievable these contents are domiciled in a Nigeria radio station powered by AI, ensuring a well-rounded listening experience beyond commerce.

KongaFm 103.7 in support of a new economy is also extending Free Advertisement to both big, medium and small businesses to showcase their products. Interested companies are advised to call 07080635705 or email info@kongafm.com

 

The future of shopping is here. Don’t just listen. Shop, sell, and save; all on KongaFM -103.7!

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Lagos Tourism commissioner on working visit to San Francisco film and entertainment commission

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1 week ago

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February 15, 2025

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Lagos Tourism commissioner on working visit to San Francisco film and entertainment commission

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