HF MAGAZINE 1ST EDITION

n unrepentant HF Choc Boy who is blissfully addicted to 51HF Magazine Edition 1, Volume 1. his craft, endowed with an unassuming disposition completeAwith a generous spirit, Ice Prince is truly a writer’sdelight. Christened Panshak Henry Zamaniat birth, this Plateau State born fire spittingrapper has really gotten on top of his game byrefusing to succumb to the vicissitudes of lifewhich made him an orphan at a young age. Inspite of all the bricks life threw his way as ayoungster he never allowed anything to derailhim from his vision.The young Panshak wisely took a leap of faithby tapping into the then vibrant creativelifeline of a group of young heads aspiringfor the big break in the capital city of Jos,where he grew up. A circle parading hithertounknown future eggheads like the Abagabrothers, MI and Jesse Jagz. It was this musicalcomradeship that actually directed Zamani’ssteps in the right directions.It was also at this period of their collectivemusical wilderness that MI took him underhis wings, inculcating into the young eagerstudent all the tenets of rap and hip hop as he(MI) knew it.In attesting to his long standing bond with the “Yeah, we are Jacket – JP Matadoraforementioned brothers, which according getting there. Tee -shirt - Bandit urban clothingto him transcends their Chocolate City label Very soon you Pocket square – Effeci clothingkinship, Ice Prince jocularly remarked “we are will see Nigerians Pants – Cross colours boutiquebrothers, we inspire each other, we advise and and Africans Shoes – Cross colours boutiquetalk to each other, we look out for each other, winning Grammy Chain, ring and watch – Ice prince’s ownwe know where our dreams are and we will Awards easily. Ikeep on pushing, together”. guarantee you that, and that’sOn MI’s immense contributions to theeventual germination, nurturing and harvest what’s up!”of his bountiful career, our guest in this maidenedition who obviously displays a lot of respect,loyalty and unalloyed love towards the ‘ShortBlack Boy’ from Jos, enthusiastically explains“Mr. Incredible (MI) is my mentor. EverythingI know about music today, from rapping tosinging, I learnt from him. With him the kudosnever ends. I have told him before and I willuse your platform to say it again, MI, you willlive longer than Mandela, in fact, you will liveas long as you want to live. Yes! I mean it. Hehas always been there for me”.The type of guy who seems to be in constanttouch with reality, Panshak took us down thememory lane of his mind, the buzzing and thethoughts, he reminiscences; “when my debut

HF single Oleku blew, it was like a dream come true, because we never saw that happening, we never saw it blowing up. We just thought we made an ok song between me, Jesse and Brymo, you know? But, the song went as far as it did, it was a blessing, I did not see it coming (laughs), I remember in my early stages I was learning how to be a star, I was like okay, now wey I don get big song, wetin people wey get big songs dey do? Dem dey smile? Dem dey take pictures? Dem dey wear glasses? I had to learn some of these things, but along the line I realized it is just best to be yourself and I am being myself right now” Waxing philosophical in his unbiased assessment of the Nigerian Music Industry, its potentials and viability, production quality and international acceptability, this 27 year old club banger, who also doubles as a business oriented Estate developer and manager proclaimed in a trancelike, inspired prophetic stance; “Much love to the Nigerian music industry, we are big right now, we are major right now, we are international, the world is starting to look at us, the United Kingdom is starting to pay attention to us, the United States is paying attention to our music. It is just a matter of time before we actually get there, which will bring full recognition and respect. It is all respect and all love to all the people that paved the way from day one, I remember from Plantation Boys to Style Plus, the people that have been grinding this for years, they opened doors for a lot of us, and some of us are still here now opening more doors for the ones that will come behind . Yeah, we are getting there. Very soon you will see Nigerians and Africans winning Grammy Awards easily. You will see us performing on the big stages. It might take time, but it is not impossible, it is not far-fetched, it will happen. I guarantee you that, and that’s what’s up!” “It was also at this period of their collective musical wilderness that MI took him under his wings, inculcating into the young eager student all the tenets of rap and hip hop as he (MI) knew it” 52 HF Magazine Edition 1, Volume 1.

“I do not speak the best HF English, I have a big head 53HF Magazine Edition 1, Volume 1. that is shapeless which make girls not like me, I have a pot belly and I am from Jos”In the course of this exclusive interview whichheld simultaneously with a model heads upphoto-shoot that is currently evolving as ahallmark of HF Magazine at the hippy state-of the -art Moussa Moussa studios in Lagos,Ice quipped; “If you run into me and call meHenry, I will know that you know me very well.Henry is my English name, I don’t like it but it isthere on my passport. I do not like it as a namebut when I was in secondary school that wasall they used to call me Henry, Henry, Henry.”Continuing in the same vein, this recentlycrowned Best African Act at the just concludedprestigious BET Awards 2013 held in theUnited States of America, threw the HF teama little off guard when he introduced his selfdeprecating side into the discuss.Asked about his advice to aspiring Headsin the game, his answer came in a coatedjuxtaposition of his nonchalant description ofhis physical attributes and present standing,in his own words; “I tell them to always lookat me as an example, just take my life as anexample. I do not speak the best English, Ihave a big head that is shapeless which makegirls not like me, I have a pot belly and I amfrom Jos, Jos is not known for entertainment.What people know about Jos is war, bombingsand all that. And I am able to get to this levelof success with all these imperfections. So if Ican, nobody has anything to tell me, you donot have an excuse. All I am saying is that I amthe opposite of a star; I do not have a 6 pack.

HF “The day I became an orphan was when I thought and said to myself, I have to look out for people like me”54 HF Magazine Edition 1, Volume 1.

God has been good. So, I always say if I can do it, HFanybody can do it.”For this exceptional youth whose creativeingenuity is not in doubt, stardom, he says cannever get into his head as he remains steadfastlythe grateful boy he has always been.He opined without mincing words that; “RecentlyI became a very reserved person and I am alwaysin my shell, let me put it that way. I am always athome in the studio. I have a studio in my house.I am always there, if I am in Lagos. When I comeout to make appearances or for photo-shoots likethis one or I go to perform somewhere, those arethe only times I leave my house. So, I think thatis how I am able to manage my success becausestaying that way, keeps me away from a lot ofunpleasant stuff that is out there. I don’t miss theregular things that guys miss because on a normalday, I am not that kind of a person. I was neverthe type to go to movies or clubs. I no dey do ambefore I blow sef, I do not miss none of those.There is nothing I cannot do, if I want to buy akaratoday, I will go out and buy akara. There is nothingI cannot do really.”Moving forward, Panshak whose beau Bimboblessed with a bouncing baby boy named JamalZamani over a year now, affirmed that marriageis not in his plans presently. Also, he threw somelight into his upcoming project thus; “I am workingon Fire on Zamani, my second album right now.It is a piece of art that I am excited about rightnow. I keep calling it a piece of art because I havespent a lot of time and energy on this album. Ihave some big names on this album, I have somesurprises on the album, I have some styles ofmusic which I am going to be doing and people aregoing to be like woooo, you know what I mean?And some producers that I am working with that Ihave never worked with before are going to be onthis album as well. And apart from that, I have myZamani Foundation that is going to kick off soon.Immediately after the album, that is going to getserious, it looks out for orphans, people that arelike me in the society. I am not trying to build upsomething big and pour all the money into it, but Ifeel like the little that I have, I can pay somebody’sschool fees, buy somebody’s text books and wewould see how it goes. The day I became anorphan was when I thought and said to myself, Ihave to look out for people like me. When I lostmy mom, my eyes opened in a different directionand I started seeing things differently.”Ice Prince Zamani definitely has a story totell. A story which touches the main cord ofindefatigable tenacity and sincerity of purpose,a story of a true role model and inspiration fortoday’s African youth. HF Magazine Edition 1, Volume 1. 55

HF “ I remember in my early stages I was learning how to be a star, I was like okay, now wey I don get big song, wetin people wey get big songs dey do? Dem dey smile? Dem dey take pictures? Dem dey wear glasses? I had to learn some of these things, but along the line I realized it is just best to be yourself and I am being myself right now ” 56 HF Magazine Edition 1, Volume 1.

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HF Words By Elomie Ototobor, Hair By Jerryplus, Makeup By House Of TARA, Styled By Elomie Models By Isis Agency, Photography By Moussa Moussa HF FASHIONCAonlodurTsre, Pnrdinsts For Fall This fall is about attitude and being daring- from the mix of masculine/feminine dressing to the quirky playful looks, and let’s not forget, a touch of our fav fabric, Ankara. It’s a season of looking back just as much as it is about looking ahead. Designers riffle through fashion archives, finding greatest hits like pearls, monochrome and my favourite, the shift-dress, and reworking them for today. Here are a variety of looks you should look forward to this fall. 59HF Magazine Edition 1, Volume 1.

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HFSEQUINS Words by Akudo Abengowe, Makeup by House of Tara, Hair by Jerryplus, Models by Isis Models, Photography by Mouss Moussa.Sequins are definitely for everyone and can beworn anytime of the day. You can rock it withjust a hint of sparkle like an embellished pursein the day, or a high impact piece like an all-oversequined jacket or dress at night.Sequined top- stylist’s wardrobeJeans- G500 boutiqueAnkara hair band- Bejewelled konceptAnkara purse- stylist’s wardrobeNeck-piece- G500 boutiqueShoes –stylist’s wardrobe HF Magazine Edition 1, Volume 1. 61

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HFSUBDUED FLORALDon’t let go of the floral trend just yet. Swap the pretty, brightflowers for a darker tone. Vivid blues and rich reds set againstblack or navy are perfect for fall.(Yes! You can wear pantyhose in our weather. Works on a coolnight or rainy day)Floral Dress-G500 boutiqueNeck-piece- G500 boutiqueAnkara comb- Bejewelled konceptPantyhose- stylist’s wardrobeBangles-G500 boutiqueShoes- Davoneski shoes HF Magazine Edition 1, Volume 1. 63

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HFLACEGo crazy with lace this fall with the delicate fabriclanding on anything from flirty tops, trendy gownsto sexy shoes.Lace top- G500 boutiqueShorts- DavivaAnkara hair band –Bejewelled KonceptBelt- stylist’s wardrobePantyhose-stylist’s wardrobeShoes-stylist’s wardrobeEarrings-stylist’s wardrobe HF Magazine Edition 1, Volume 1. 65

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HFSASSY MASCULINE ANDFEMININE MIXSexy masculine tailoring is ideal thisseason. Pair a dramatic white orcolour shirt with tuxedo pants andbrogues.Shirt- G500 boutiqueTuxedo pants- Stylist’s wardrobeGlasses- stylist’s wardrobeBow-tie- stylist’s wardrobeShoes- Topsy’s shoes 67HF Magazine Edition 1, Volume 1.

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HF Words by Elomie Ototobor, Makeup by House of Tara, Hair by Jerryplus, Models by Isis Models, Styled by Elomie Ototobor, Photography by Moussa Moussa.SHIFT DRESSThe shift dress is inspired by retro-chic style ofthe 60s. The straight-cut dress flatters all bodytypes without hugging the figure. Pair with flats orwedges for a casual look and with heels for a party.Dress- G500 boutiqueFaux pearls- G500 boutiqueShoes- G500 boutique Watch out for the palest pinks to dusky damask hues this season 69HF Magazine Edition 1, Volume 1.

HF There is a nothing like good weave Finding the best hair in the perfect cut can not only enhance your look, but transform you into another woman. The main purpose of wearing extensions is to enhance your hair to its fullest potential, not to cause breakage and harm to your natural hair. Unfortunately, all weaves are not created equal. Some don’t last long and, without care, they can cause major breakage for your natural hair. When choosing hair: 1. Choose a length in hair extensions that you will feel comfortable in. 2. Create your signature style by blending textures with 100% human hair. For example, combining wavy hair with curly hair gives you an easy wash- and-go style. A relaxed texture combined with straight will give you the perfect blend with lots of body. 3. Choose textures that work for your lifestyle. Do you work out? Do you like low maintenance hair? Ask yourself these questions when selecting. You can also opt for clip-in extensions for a temporary style. 4. Think about how often you would want to change your style with your extensions. For a natural part, leave some of your natural hair out. For alternating between lots of body and sleek strands, opt for curly or wavy textures. 5. Don’t be afraid of color! Choose a color that compliments your skin tone and one that you can easily maintain. Hair extension care: Toks Fahm-Ajayi Owner/Creative Director, TressesByToks 1. Maintenance is key. Treat your extensions as you would your natural hair. However, you should take your extensions down every eight weeks. Every six months, you should also give your hair a break from extensions for at least two to four weeks. 2. Avoid hairline breakage at all costs! Take care of your natural hair. Try to leave out ample hair around the edges to avoid added tension around your hairline. Tight braids applied close to your hairline with tracks sewn on them can easily break or cause further damage, like tractional alopecia. 3. When getting extensions, always use premium hair. Using 100% virgin Indian hair, with cuticles running in one direction, from root to tip, will ensure that you will be able to reuse the hair multiple times. 4. These types of products will weigh the hair down and make your hair extensions stiff so avoid at all costs: o Spritz o Oil sheens o Products containing alcohol o Heavy leave-in conditioners o Mousse o Pomades 5. Shampoo hair in the shower in a downward motion to keep hair from tangling. Air dry or use a diffuser for curly hair, for straight styles use your blow dryer and a vent brush and flat iron until sleek. Make sure your base braids are fully dry to avoid braid mildew. 70 HF Magazine Edition 1, Volume 1.

HFBBEeeayyuoetnysd the Wine hued vixen This season is all about plum and shades of wine red. What better way to get an attention grabbing wine coloured lip, if not to wear it with a simple braided hair look for that vixen appeal. You can create a fun look by twisting the braid to any side of your face for that extra pop.Words by Akudo Abengowe, Makeup by House of Tara, Hair by Jerryplus, Models by Isis Agency, Photography by Mouss Moussa. 71HF Magazine Edition 1, Volume 1.

HF Retro revisited The retro look keeps coming back to our beauty looks and it’s a trending look this fall. This look revisits the hawk hair style, but this time in a braid at the back and the hawk look at the front. With dark eye makeup, you can achieve a hot yet sexy look that will fit the urbane retro image we all try to wear some times. 72 HF Magazine Edition 1, Volume 1.

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HF EVENT ABUJA STANDS STILL FOR TEE A’S SHOW Words By Akudo Abengowe, Photography By Ibraheem Tiamiyu Tunde Adewale, popularly known as Tee A is a foremost Nigerian comedian who has carved a niche for his art. He is a formidable force in the comedy entertainment industry and is forever breaking new grounds. Tee A held his latest concert ‘Tyme Out with Tee A’ in Abuja on Sunday 11th August 2013 and it was a fantastic outing. The likes of Basket Mouth, Bovi, Princess, Headmaster, Mc Abbey, Dammy Krane, Skales, Banky W, Inyanya, Kc, Emma Nyra etc gave astounding performances which kept the Abuja crowd screaming till the end of the concert. The highpoints of the concert was an interview with Daddy Showkey and a special performance by the dread wearing ‘Fire Burn’ singer. Tee A gave his Abuja fans an unforgettable concert. Keep it up. 74 HF Magazine Edition 1, Volume 1.

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EVENT For Airport Pickup, Rentals & Drop-Off AbujaComing to (Nigeria) Call: for Business a subsidiary of Printfield Ent. Ltd. Pleaosrure FCT Licenced Taxi Operator Brand New Cars Convenient A/C Tracked Customer Support CenterCall Centre: 08098286666 www.heritagecabsng.com38 HF Magazine Edition 1, Volume 1.

KATUNG HF SPECIALS HFADUWAKDirecktahExtraordinaireInterviews By Akudo Abengowe, Myke Pam and Patrick ChilakaSeven years ago, the franchise reality show Big Brother Africa berthed in Nigeria as BigBrother Nigeria. Though short-lived, it made a lasting impression on viewers regardless. Andthat was mainly because of the interesting crop of contestants in the game. Katung Aduwakwas one of them, he was fun, entertaining and unpredictable. He eventually emerged winnerof BBN and went underground. The KadunaState born dude has been very busy, directingmusic videos, presenting on radio, handling PR for major music labels and running his farmin Abuja. Now, Katung is set to make mega waves as the director of ‘Heaven’s Hell’, a bigbudget feature film, which will change the face of movie making in Nigeria. He was all toohappy to talk to us about the movie and BGL, the financiers for the movie.HF: You have come a long way since Big Brother Nigeria, which was about know that they do not deserve to be abused that way. There is no need for themeight years ago? to waste and add to the statistics of dead people when there is help that can beKU: Actually it was seven years ago, Big Brother Nigeria was a long time ago. accorded to them. The movie is an eye opener for people to know their worth. They say the way you set your head na him barber go barb you. If you are notHF: So what has happened to you within those years? weak, do not appear weak. People take advantage of insecure people, if youKU: I was a radio presenter before BBN and after Big Brother Nigeria, I went have unhappy mothers, you will have unhappy children, and they are supposedback to radio, because I love radio. I left Cool FM for Rhythm FM, I am also to be leaders of tomorrow.a condom ambassador for NACA. I did some charity work which made me aUN Ambassador for Peace. I was also running marketing and PR for Chocolate HF: As someone known for having a magic touch, what are those things youCity, which we started in the University of Jos. My contract with Storm ended brought to Heaven’s Hell that will make everyone applaud it?two years after Big Brother, so I left for film school in New York. I did a film in KU: I am a guy who choose story over style because when you have a goodNew York called ‘The Unwanted Guest, it got nominated for four AMAA awards story you will have everyone on lockdown even if you do not shoot it very well. Ithough it did not win any. Then I moved back to Nigeria and so far I have chose story over style. And then I decided to depict a picture that is not regulardirected Everybody Loves Ice Prince(E.L.I). I did a couple of music videos for Ice in anyway. We shot with Sony F55, this is the first time it is been used in AfricaPrince, Gabriel Afolayan, Style Plus and now Heaven’s Hell which we have been as a whole. The Sony F55 is what Hollywood is calling the revolution of theworking on for a while. 21st century. It shoots 4k, which in layman terms is eight times the quality of HD. My director of photography and assistant cameraman are from Hollywood,HF: That is massive, so though you haven’t been in our faces, you have they have worked with Will Smith, Al Pacino, Rihanna and Michelle Pfeiffer. Weactually been busy. brought excellence both in cast and technicalities in order to tell a good story. InKU: Quite Busy. Nigerian movies,audio sound are always faulty, I brought a guy who does not even speak English, he’s name is Aleon Mbo. He is Africa’s number one sound guy, hisHF: So what else have you done, did you get married? Do you have children brief was to ensure our audio was hi-tech. We want to show that it is not aboutright now? churning out quantity, we can also give quality movies. We have aerial shots ofKU: There are two kinds of busy in Nigeria, there is busy for really being Lagos, we brought guys from South Africa to do it. Some people are already doingbusy and busy for people to feel that you are busy so that you can attract some good movies in Nollywood, which is why people like me can come in at thisother things. Whichever way you choose to do it, busy is busy. I am getting stage to up the ante. I have put in my best and given it my all, if this movie doesmarried in August, I met her while I was schooling in New York and she is from not make it, you will see me in Ajah selling DVD on the streets (laughs). The actorsChicago. She came to test the waters in Nigeria, and she’s been here for a year were superb, they delivered because I went through sessions with them. So withnow. She is an only child and we are getting married in Chicago, because her their efforts, the crew, what I have done and what God is going to do for us, therefather can’t travel due to ill health. We will come back to Nigeria and do the is no stopping this movie.Nigerian version for my family. HF: How would you rate this movie with your other works and secondly itHF: Let us talk about the movie ‘Heaven’s Hell’. We have heard amazing means this is feature film?things about the movie. As the movie director, what’s your perspective of it? KU: Starting from the first question, the only other feature film I have done isKU: Heaven’s Hell is a story that will literarily affect everybody that watches the one I did in New York. I shot on a 7D, which doesn’t shoot on the level of theit. The basic message is about domestic violence among families. It’s about F55. In comparison, that feature film, is on a scale of 1, and Heaven’s Hell is onemotional and physical abuse, which might be happening to you or someone a scale of 110. That is the difference. These people are too hungry to blow youryou know. Women and children are the major focus irrespective of their trumpet, if you don’t blow it, no one will and it is the truth. With the Sony F55 Istatus, they are mostly prisoners in their own homes, yet they keep quiet have limitless options as it has about 16,000,000 color settings. The quality of theabout it because of the stigma that comes along with it. We want people to actors was also key. I did not believe that I could draw this much strength till it 77HF Magazine Edition 1, Volume 1.

HF Hell in Heaven’s was asked of me. Now the second question, yes this is a feature film that will go to festivals, Gate we are already in touch with a lady who is starting up a Pan-African Film Festival in Senegal. She has worked in Cannes for 6 years and Toronto for 5 years. Heaven’s Hell has already Nse is a prolific actress, very choosy in movie been picked though she hasn’t seen it. The feature film will go to cinemas, we already have distribution deals in South Africa, UK, US and some European countries. We are translating roles and give depth and character to each movie. in other languages as well. With movies like Guilty Pleasures, Phone Swap, HF: Are you done with the post production? KU: Oh no, it is still going on. Editing is going on in New York, and after that we will do color Mr. & Mrs. etc. Nse Ikpe Etim Clifford has set correction, sound mastering and grading in Los Angeles. We want to make sure we do it right. a standard in her chosen profession that every HF: What are your plans for the premier? intending movie star should emulate. HF crew KU: We will premiere the movie in Nigeria, Ghana, South Africa, Congo, Kenya, the UK and the US. In the US, we have New York and Texas in lockdown and we are also working paid a visit to the Akwa Ibom State born on Atlanta and Washington DC. That is the spread we have for the cinemas. I know the premiere is going to be big. We have big plans for it, and want to make a lasting impression. actress’ house, where she played host to us and I want just to wow people with the movie. talked excitedly about the block buster movie HF: What message do you have for the financiers of the movie? KU: I was just a visionary who met with some visionaries’. BGL Asset Management Heaven’s Hell, which is going to be a first of its Entertainment Fund, they have been interested in entertainment for over a year before they met me. It is so sad that our industry is not properly structured, so it’s not really encouraging kind in Nigeria. Heaven’s Hell will premiere in for a financial investor. I showed them a preliminary structure where they can monitor their funds, we formed a great partnership, a great synergy. They did a good job because late 2013. But get the juicy details first… entertainment is one area the government has not invested in. The total number of cast for ‘Heaven’s Hell’ was 222 and they lived everyday on €70. So we provided jobs for people. HF: Nse, can you please throw more light on the big budget movie you were involved in recently? HF: As an upwardly mobile director charged to do a whole lot more, do you see Nollywood NIE: I was contracted to do a movie by Ashtag Media House and embracing more feature films than home videos? KU: All I can say is ‘if something is worth doing, if you are not striving to be the best at 108 Media, my sister Uyai and Katung Aduwak partnered with a it don’t even do it all’. I believe so much in growth because, there was never an industry multi-national organization to produce the movie. It is a true story before Nollywood, and it started one day. Now the problem came in because there are on violence that was adapted to the African situation. Violence is no standards in the movies they churned out. But when they see the good thing they will something that we run away from, we don’t speak about it, or we still take it. Right now if you asked them how we can get better, they will vie for better believe that the person can change. We do not look at the deep DSLR cameras and light, they forget that there is something called a story, something called rooted side of violence, we do not face it headlong and try to nip characterization etc. You don’t shoot a movie in a week and release it the next week, no. I it in the bud. Everyone is involved in domestic abuse or violence, worked on this movie for over two years. It is not even a joke. Six months before shooting men, women and children are abused in several ways. All these the movie, I and the actors were still going over the characterization. We developed a bible elements were incorporated in the movie, violence is so wide and I for each character and made them understand the person deeply. They were overwhelmed think they threw more light on the various aspects of it. I was a cast by the job, but the thing is even when things go wrong, what do you do? You look for a way in the movie, I played alongside Fabian Lojode, Bimbo Akintola, out rather than panic.I was patient in dealing with everybody, I managed everybody’s ego Chet Anekwe, OC Ukeje, Damilola Adegbite, Kalu Ikeagwu, Femi on set. Because at the end of the day, it’s for the good of the film. Five years ago, who would Jacobs and Waje who did a Cameo appearance. have believed that some people will take this industry as serious as I am taking it You can imagine how it will be ten years from now. It is not growing at the rate we want it to, but it HF: how long were you on location? will definitely change. NIE: Well, I don’t think time is an issue, because we work hard in HF: As a director, where do you see yourself in five years? Nigeria. We have been able to turn our supposed mushroom thing KU: Worst case scenario I would be collecting an Oscar for the Best Foreign Film. So to a massive industry. But it took us 6 weeks or more because it Hollywood should watch out, because they won’t see me coming. was shot in two continents, Nigeria and UK. HF: Would you say attending the New York Film School paved a way for your success? HF: You are quite choosy of movie roles, what was KU: Not really because my mother still reminds me of how I used to point out continuity attractive in this script? Or was it because your sister mistakes in movies as a young child. We don’t pay much attention to continuity in our wrote it? movies things like ‘there is a rosary hanging on the mirror, then they just show the next right NIE: No, I honestly had no hand in their casting, I read the script on and the rosary is no more there, why? As a child I could draw, I could write and I could paint. I knew everything but I was a master of none. Films provided the perfect platform for like every other actor, I almost felt slighted (Laughs), but my sister me to fuse all these talents together. I would have been confused, I write, I sing, I even acted insisted on doing everything the right way and I understand that. Wedlock of the gods (by Zulu Sofola) for the Governor of Lagos as a child. It is not enough to Even when I’m upstairs in my room, she will send me an email have a talent, you need to become skilled, that was why I went to school. ‘hope you are doing good?’ when she can easily knock on my door to enquire (Laughs). So I took the script because it was well HF: Would it be safe to say that you are living your dreams right now? written, I liked the dialogue. It was very basic and real, it depicted KU: To God who made me, I am on the path to achieving all my dreams. each characterization well. I think it came out well because the three of them researched while working on the script. 78 HF Magazine Edition 1, Volume 1.

HFHF: Does this movie have a working title? HF: Is this your first time working with Katung and what was itNIE: Yes, it does have a real title. It’s called Heaven’s Hell like? NIE: Honestly, as an actress I was very impressed, I did not think he would take me toHF: Can you tell us about your character?NIE: I will try not to let the cat out of the bag too much. where I went to. When I act otherwise, he will say ‘Nse, Nse is not here, is she? I am like no, he goes where is Alice? I go she’s here, he goes she’s not’. We would argue aboutHF: Not all it for a while and he would ask if I needed sometime. He did those things to ensure that INIE: No, even the head will not pop out (laughs). Ok let us put it this way, I connected to each scene. They actually thought I had hurt myself at one scene, I had to smile and reassure them that I was fine, but the smile was not deep because I was mentallyplayed a character called Alice Henshaw who came from nothing but wanted and emotionally pained. So he took me really far, I actually do not want to be an Alice ineverything. She married right and couldn’t really tell the world her personal a long time, no I don’t.pain because she was constantly keeping up appearances. She is one characterwho kept up appearances until the end. HF: HEAVEN’S HELL has an impressive cast. NIE: yeah, there was Bimbo Manuel.HF: What where the challenges playing that character? Were HF: It was a combination of the old school and the new schoolyou just having fun or was it difficult? NIE: Which one is old school now?NIE: Truth is I don’t play every character the same way, because no two HF: People like Bimbo Manuel whom we watched as kids NIE: It does not matter, all these old people that are still rocking our world abi?people are the same. So you always have to find that one thing that is differentin every character. Alice kept smiling through her pain, it is a very difficult thing HF: So what was it like working with this mix of talents?to do, yet everyone is an actor and the world is a stage thanks to ‘Shakespeare’. NIE: I only met few people on set because it was a diverse story. I didn’t meetHow do you smile through pain? How are you a back bone, yet you haveno back? This is what Alice was, it was tough having to live through her for Bimbo Manuel though I had worked with him before. He is someone I reallythat period. The character stuck with me, I had to be Alice, even when I got admire. But I worked with Fabian Alojode closely, I worked with Kalu Ikeagwu,married. I could not be Nse because I went straight to set from my wedding, I Chet Anekwe, Bimbo Akintola played my friend, Gideon Okeke my brother andhad become Alice already. And at a point it affected my husband because I was Linda Ejiofor was in it as well.subconsciously acting strangely. He had to complain seriously before I realizedwhat I was doing. You see, to be a method actor can be painful sometimes, HF: What is the message of this story as it relates to Africa?something has got to give. NIE: Heaven’s Hell tries tells us that before a man can wake up a monster,HF: Taking a critical look at other movies in Nollywood, what something in his environment must have affected him. That we should understanddifference will HEAVEN’S HELL make? that we are products of our environment. And that the world is not as wicked asNIE: I believe that we have come to add to the industry not change it. That is we make it look, because some of us grew up with love and that is why we keep giving no matter how painful it is. Some people can’t give love because you can’twhat Heaven’s Hell is going to do. It will be one Nigerian movie that will make give what you don’t have. So that is what Heaven’s Hell is all about. It also tells youour industry a better one, no be fight, no be war, do you understand? We are that life really is not a bed of roses, they have got thorns in it.fighting for one goal, we want our industry to live, and we will strive as hard aswe can to make it right. That is what Heaven’s Hell hopes to achieve. HF Magazine Edition 1, Volume 1. 79

HF UYAI IKPE ETIM GENERATION NEXT Not many know Uyai Ikpe Etim, but if you have watched Guilty Pleasures or Queen Amina, then you will know the stuff she is made of. Meeting her for the first time, what generally comes to mind is, calm, shy and introverted. But Uyai is all of this and more. The very creative lady has made a name for herself by writing great stories and screen plays. She also blogs and easily describes herself as ‘very loud’. The best of the best, she is a younger sister to Nse Ikpe Etim and is currently working on a wonderful movie project which she co- wrote with her sister and Katung Aduwak. Meet Uyai, as she talks excitedly about writing and ‘Heaven’s Hell’… HF: Take us down memory lane, how did writing start for you? screenplay? UIE: Writing was pretty much part of growing up in my family, we were made to read a UIE: I did the screenplay with my sister TENYIN IKPE ETIM and our lot and thus most of us discovered writing. I also blog. My blog is just about me, playful, friend and co-worker KATUNG ADUWAK. But Katung directed it. random stuff. Until recently when I started writing for an online magazine. Before then, I wrote GUILTY PLEASURES, which was nominated for Best Screenplay at the 2011 AMAA HF: When was your first experiment with script writing? awards. I also worked on a mini- series QUEEN AMINA with JETA AMATA. My latest story UIE: (Laughs) My first script writing experience started as a joke. My has been turned to a movie called ‘Heaven’s Hell’ which is in post production now. sister Nse was writing and she got stuck along the line. She sought my opinion and I said ‘why not make it happen like this and like that’ she HF: What gave you the inspiration for such a catchy title? playful tossed the script to me and told me to write it. That was how I UIE: (Laughs), We wanted to do a movie that every African woman could relate to, wrote the entire thing, but yeah it turned out good. Jetta Amata was bearing in mind that there’s a lot of abuse movies in Nigeria. We decided to tell our impressed with the script that was how I got to work with him on story from an original point, we wanted to tell a story that is true to art and entertaining. Queen Amina. In doing that, we wanted a name that will be punchy and attention-grabbing. A name that would make you ask why Heaven’s Hell, because there’s a hell in everybody’s little HF: A movie like ‘Heaven’s Hell’ with such a cast is definitely big heaven, no matter what amazing life you may think the person has. budget. How did you get funding for such a movie? UIE: We found an institution that was interested in entertainment. HF: The first impression one gets when they meet you is that you’re an introvert.Yet Katung Aduwak found that company and they were captivated by the you are very eloquent. How do you separate these two personalities? story. They saw our vision and saw what the movie could become. UIE: I think it’s a misconception when people meet me and assume I’m an introvert, And they gave us what we wanted. but I am very noisy and playful and sharp, ask my sisters (laughs). However, in the entertainment industry, I work mostly behind the cameras, which is great for me, because I can shout and play anyhow I want to. HF: So you are content to be just a writer? UIE: Oh yes! Writing is something I love so I don’t see it as work. HF: We were told Heaven’s Hell is a true story. Did you get to meet the real people in the story? UIE: Yes, we met the person.The story is based loosely on actual events surrounding one person’s story, though there are loads of characters in Heaven’s Hell. So yes we met the person, and we were able to feel this woman’s pain. You may not be able to get a clear picture of how deep someone is hurting, but we could connect with her pain and we added a bit of fiction to make it more entertaining. HF: How long did it take you to write the script? UIE: Hmm, I started writing Heaven’s Hell five years ago. It was rewritten and edited which took another one year. So yeah, it took us approximately six years to say ‘ok this script is ready to work’. We just had to draw a line at some point and move to the next stage. HF: One of the major attractions about this movie is the screenplay, who did the80 HF Magazine Edition 1, Volume 1.

HF: Would you say the support shown to HFyou financially added a certain value tothe movie? 81HF Magazine Edition 1, Volume 1.UIE: Oh yes, it really did. I am not big ontechnicalities but I know we got camerasthat have never been used in Nollywood.We got amazing directors of photography,people who have worked with the best inHollywood.HF: Hollywood? WowUIE: Yes, we brought someone who hasworked with AL PACINO, and worked inseries like LOST. We were able to achieveall that because we had good funding.HF: When is the movie showing incinemas? UIE: The movie is supposed to be outtowards the end of the year.HF: With such a big picture, do you havepromotional plans?UIE: Yes we have promotional plans,we also have plans to make our soundtracks into a DVD and sell that separatelybecause we have great sound tracks if Imust say so myself. (Laughs)HF: What should movie lovers lookforward to in this movie?UIE: Look forward to a story that is beentold in a way it has never been told before,look forward to loads of entertainment.Look forward to great acting and verygreat directing. Yes, look forward to anamazing movie.HF: Where do you see Nollywood in fiveyears with the influx of young creativeminds like you and the interest ofAmerican movie makers?UIE: (Laughs) Well we are getting there,but I don’t know if you can compareHollywood to Nollywood, it has neverreally made sense to me, it is likecomparing America to Nigeria, but weare really looking at a new Nollywood.Besides‘Heaven’s Hell’, there are othergreat movies coming from Nollywood.I think in five years, we will be doingsomething amazing.HF: Finally, what other projects are youworking on now?UIE:We have a great story we are workingon currently, but I will keep it in the wrapsfor now. If ‘Heaven’s Hell’ took us fiveyears, we have no plans to rush this one,it will probably take us way longer. Weaim to please.After hearing the way this movie is beentalked about, HF Magazine marks this oneas a must watch.

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HF GONE WITH THE WIND?Has NTA Become aNTA is still holding its own! In my department, asShadow of EDP I have introduced programmes such as the drama serial you sold to us, ‘Shackles’, which has not been able to get a sponsor. That’s one of our major handicaps. We have many good programme ideas,Itself? but sponsorship is a major challenge”. By Shamsudeen Adeiza Apart from sponsorship, my investigations reveal when popular children programmes like Tales by that NTA has rapidly lost some of its best hands thatWhen you say NTA today, Moonlight and Giant in the Sun, which won prizes produced the super-hits of yester-years through what easily comes to mind at international Television Festivals ended. And why retirements, and talents are the most difficult is Network News, alas that not! After all, NTA used to send her production staff attributes to replace. There is a yawning vacuum wasn’t the case before for training to internationally recognized institutions in the system because the new hands are not as this time. In the 60’s, 70’s abroad. But today, such incentives no longer thrive enthusiastic to learn as their predecessors. It may beand early 80’s, the Nigeria Television Authority there. I left NTA 2 decades ago, and as a bystander, far-fetched to say that NTA is now a shadow of itself,(NTA), simply known as NTV, was a colossus that I’m in a position to say it has lost a lot of verve, value but, clearly, for us who knew when NTA was the all-monopolized the industry with vivacious festivals, and vigour. Though, it has remained the largest in-all television station in the country, NTA needs amusicals and documentaries. I was privileged to television empire in Africa. That is why new players lot of re-definition, rejuvenation and revitalizationbe a producer / director with the NTA in the 80’s, like AIT, Channels and Silverbird, tend to attract for her to keep her head above water! We ask again,when this giant was at its peak; a time when she more viewers than NTA. has NTA as we use to know it gone with the wind?had very interesting programmes with competitiveprizes attached to them; this pushed producers Privileged to be doing a new comedy programme, “I wouldn’t say we areand directors to be their best. That was when titled ‘Professor Angus’, with NTA, I asked thepowerful dramas like The Village Headmaster, The Executive Director Programmes, NTA Headquarters losing our viewers toMasquerade, Mirror In The Sun, Ripples, Spacs Abuja, Mallam U. Mamoud, why NTA has seemingly other television stations;(First Attempt At Action Drama) and Check Mate lost her audience to private televisions and this is what’s happening is thatamongst others, ruled the airwaves and entertained what he had to say; “I wouldn’t say we are losing viewers have variety ofNigerians. The Controversial ‘Pot of Life’ was made our viewers to other television stations; what’s stations to watch and itsthen and Chinua Achebe’s ‘Things Fall Apart’ was happening is that viewers have variety of stations toadapted to television. That was when screen-kings watch and its good for them. Even my friends tell me good for them”such as Pete Edochie and a few others were created. they switch to NTA only for Network News, and they know NTA sifts her news because she is basically aNothing lasts forever and all Kingdoms must government organ. This is a reality, but I tell you,come to an end. And so, the Golden Age of NTA,84 HF Magazine Edition 1, Volume 1.

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HF Interview By Akudo Abengowe and Patrick Chilaka, Hair By Jerryplus, Makeup By House Of TARA, Styled By Elomie Ototobor, Photography By Moussa Moussa A EMMANUEL N IBRAHIM Dress- Total wrap boutique N Earrings and neck-piece – Playtime Jewellery Shoes- Hot stepper boutique LMoFvUEuSeINsGi&c Hair-piece – Bejewelled Koncept Mother, wife, singer, entrepreneur, social Bangle – Stylist’s wardrobe activist, Anny Emanuel Ibrahim is all that and more. She stamped her foot very firmly in the 86 HF Magazine Edition 1, Volume 1. entertainment scene with her Peace and Love Concert which she staged at Oriental Hotels. This Delta State born artiste, simply sings for a living and has produced hit singles such as Time and Come and See, which redefined the gospel music genre. HF Magazine had a tell-it-all interview with Anny and it was superlative

HFHF: How did you catch the music bug? Sequined top- Total wrap boutiqueAEI: Music is synonymous with my life, because I am so in love with it. You know what it means Cropped pants- stylist’s wardrobeto be in love? Music started a very long time ago for me. I used to be a catholic and I remember Shoes – Total wrap boutiquethe first time I was invited to a programme in a Pentecostal church, I didn’t know much about Wristwatch – Annie’s ownmusic then but we had children’s choir. The children’s choir of that particular church gave their Chain and gold bracelet- Stylist’s wardrobespecial number and my jaw dropped. I fell in love immediately and that was where my love andpassion for music started. We started attending that particular church which was good for me,because I joined the children’s choir. It was so awesome that I preferred singing to even food.I was always a good girl at home as long as I got to sing. Of course my sisters took advantageof it and sent me on countless errands, but I didn’t mind because I followed them to churchafterwards. My love and passion for music grew and before you knew, I started writing my ownlyrics and here we are today.HF: Will you say singing comes naturally to you?AEI: Yes it comes naturally because I love it. There is this thing about love that is so emotionaland natural. So any day, any time, any minute you call me up I will be able to sing, I don’t haveto force it.HF: Who where your role models within and outside Nigeria?AEI: Back then I used to sing Whitney Houston’s songs a lot, bless her memory. Even thoughI was a church girl, I just loved her songs. I also listened to Mariah Carey and Celine Dion,you know they were the leading ladies in music. For gospel music, I always listened to ShirleyCaesar, she is a very powerful vocalist, and I used to call her minister.HF: Ok, tell us how growing up was for you and the influence your parents had on your careerchoice.AEI: Hmm. growing up was fun to be honest, because mine was a home of happy siblings,though it could be boring and annoying sometimes. The fact that I had to do all the errandsformed the woman I am today. My parents taught us to bond and love each other. My eldestsister is my best friend, there is nothing I cannot tell her and it started from childhood. Inthe past, our mother would put the food in a big tray and we will all eat it with love and thistightened our bond as a family. Christmas was always fun because you would always hearlots of singing in my house, I have brothers who could rap then. Also, my parents never reallyobjected to our career choices, they would guide you but they never imposed their opinionson us. They knew we had good upbringing and would not go the wrong way. My mother reallyloved music, so she really supported me. The same thing with my late father, bless his memory.HF: How fulfilled are you in your genre of music and what hit songs still make you smile till project. Fashion is a way of life and how you want to be seen. So Idate? keep it simple and sometimes edgy.AEI: I thank God, because it is not easy in the entertainment industry. It takes a lot of workfor you to be recognized. It’s been fun, it’s been a mix of good and bad. It has been worth my HF: If we take a peek in your wardrobe, what’s the mostwhile and I thank God for that. I have two albums and they are doing very well. My first album expensive thing we will find?‘Your Mercy’ came out in 2009 and the second one ‘Time’ was released in 2011. The songs AEI: It will definitely be shoes. I am a shoe freak, I have a boutiquethat pushed me out there were ‘Come and See’ featuring Kefee, ‘Na Time’ and ‘Happy Day’ where I sell shoes and clothes. In fact my mother came to visitfeaturing Freestyle. These are songs that make me happy any day, any time. They were all radio and she was amazed at the number of shoes I had. I must pick ahits, especially ‘Come and See’. It was even a TV hit, because SOUND CITY always started their pair of shoe anywhere I go. I pick shoes that I like. My sun glassesday with the song. I would term as expensive because I bought it for $2000, I have shoes I buy for £500, £200, £300. It’s a lot of money, mostly shoesHF: Have you performed outside the country? and sun glasses.AEI: Yes, I have performed a lot outside in the UK, Dubai and France. HF: Who are your style icons?HF: Can you name some acts you have performed with? AEI: I think that would be Mary J. Blige, because she knows how toAEI: My first performance was in the UK for Diversity Entertainment’s annual awards. I was put it together without abusing her body. In Nigeria, I like Omotolanominated for the awards and they asked me to perform Come and See because they loved it. probably because she is married and trying to be different, I likeI performed alongside Omawumi, Bukky, Kefee and Sasha. It was a thrilling experience for me the style and manner she dresses. And I like my home girl, Omonibecause it proved people noticed what I was doing. Oboli she also tries to keep it edgy, sexy and decent.HF: Tell us some bad habits you have that people would say aahhh! Annie!!!? HF: Name your celebrity crush?AEI: (laughs) Hmm, I don’t know o, let me see, I eat very late as late as 2:00am. I also pick my AEI: I have a crush on Timaya (laughs), fortunately he is my friend.nose sometimes and bite my nails. I think he’s hot. I will not say I have a crush on girls before I get misinterpreted (laughs) I love a whole lot of them. I like GenevieveHF: As an artist, what does fashion and style mean to you? a lot, I think she is perfect, there is no perfect person but she justAEI: I define fashion as simplicity and comfort. I prefer comfort no matter how much I want to does it for me. As crazy as this sounds, I love Tonto Dikeh a lot. I like 87HF Magazine Edition 1, Volume 1.

HF Dress- EBI House of fashion her guts, I like the controversy sha, I just like the fact that you cannot predict her. Earrings and neck-piece- Playtime jewellery 88 HF Magazine Edition 1, Volume 1. Shoes – Nykaysflo boutique HF: Can you recount a bad hair day? AEI: That would be at the 2011 PRAISE JAM, I had braided hair. I don’t like braids much. So I styled the braid in a cap-wrap and felt really cool with it. But the hair kept falling down and I did not have rubber bands, it was really messy. I had to continuously pull it while I sang. HF: With the current awareness on looks and image, particularly for celebrities. Can you tell us your beauty routine? AEI: My beauty routine is simple. I have a normal but very sensitive skin. I break out easily, so I always wash off makeup from my face each night. I use Neutrogena Facial Scrub on my face. I also stay away from the sun. I drink a lot of water and avoid harsh creams and lotions. I only use Makari lotion on my body. HF: What are your make up/skin care must-haves’? AIE: I use Tara’s eye shadow, I use her lipstick as well. I am content with my eye shadow, lip gloss, Orekelewa powder and Black Opal products. HF: What hair look can we never find you wearing? AEI: That would be dreads, never. I fancy it on men, but you can never find me wearing dreads (laughs). HF: What inspired the Peace and Love Concert? AEI: I grew up in Kano state. I understand what violence and fear is. When I read about these bomb blasts, I can literarily see myself because I grew up in a place where there was crisis. So seeing that music is an effective tool in reaching out to the youth. I want my voice to be heard and that was how the Peace and Love Concert came to bear. No matter how expensive it is right now we want to have peace, because Nigeria itself is not at peace. Enough of the back biting, even amongst us artistes, people beef and hate on each other. We put together the concert to reach out to the less privileged in our midst, children in motherless homes, and people in prisons, to reach out to them in love as well. We got support from people and whatever little extra we got outside the concert is put back to visiting people in prisons. We had the children from the So-Said Home who performed at the concert, we are also reaching out to them through food and toiletries. HF: So we will see more Peace and Love Concerts? AEI: Yeah, we will have the second edition next year by the grace of God. HF: If we conduct an opinion poll on your friends, what will they likely say about you? AEI: They will tell you I am a jolly fellow. I try as much as I can to be happy, I stay positive and I always love to help. I always want to reach out. I think that is what they will tell you. I go out of my way to see that you are ok. HF: You have been married for a while, what romantic gestures do you appreciate most from your husband? AEI: I think it is when I have to go out, my husband is a very quiet person and a very simple man. Sometimes I travel for weeks and leave him with our daughters. He never complains, that is very romantic and he is very homely. He can wash the toilet, make the bed, he can go that far. That does it for me, money is part of it, (laughs) when he gives me money, that is romantic too but to be honest the fact that he is homely does a whole lot. HF: What is the next level for you? AEI: As I said previously, my concert was a huge success, though it was the first time I would do a thing like that. I believe the new single titled ‘Beats around the World’ featuring 9 different artistes will be out soon, I am also working on a couple of singles. We intend to also visit the female maximum prisons before the year runs out and stage like a mini concert for them as well.

HF Kamson and NeighboursSOAP REVIEW NOT RESTING ON ITS OARSNigerian soaps are not what they By Olumide Oguntimehin used to be, these days soaps are interesting and extremely funny. But they also teach lessons of life. There are several soaps today withdifferent genres and angles of entertaining viewers,that make families look forward to watching theirfavourite soaps on local or global televisions.Thus igniting unity and family bonding across thecontinent.Some Nigerian soaps have come and gone whilesome are still in existence; Papa Ajasco, Ripples,Checkmate, I need 2 know, Fortunes, EverydayPeople, Super story, Tinsel, Dear mother, Mymom and I, Family ties, Domino, About to wed,Us, Disclosure, Just the Two Of Us, Kamson andNeighbours etc.Kamson and Neighbours is a family oriented TV and Nath their only child and very good friend of challenges parents face when they have grownDrama that has been on air for 7 years. Kamson and Loretta Kamson. children around them. Each episode showcasesNeighbours’ portrays real life characters in social activities that most likely happen in our environmentand domestic settings whose actions elicit laughter The soap combines a mix of issues and personalities every day.and entertainment. It is a popular series that has of an average African middle-class family residing ingrown from strength to strength and gathered a city to achieve a solid entertaining drama. Season The producer of the drama series, Tunji Bamishigbinpositive reactions from its Nigerian audience. one introduced viewers to J.F.K, a disciplinarian bent deserves a round of applause for a professionalKamson and Neighbours tells the entertaining on raising his children the military way. Fade on the soap that has captured and entertained Nigerians.stories of the Kamson’s family. JFK the father, Fade other hand can’t help but spoil their troublesome However, it is important that the productionthe mother, Ladi Andrews (a.k.a L.A), the tricky son Ladi. continues to raise the bar on the quality of itsand jobless 25yr only son, Biodun the 19yr old production, its stories and the values they projectundergraduate, who always gets into trouble by Their nosy neighbours can’t help but get interested to their audience.covering up her naughty brother Ladi. Then there in the everyday troubles of the Kamsons. How willis Loretta, the 13yr old baby of the family. She is the Kamsons survive in this season of the reverting The family drama is void of corruptive scenes; hencethe wittiest of them all and full of childish tricks. drama series when they cannot keep the drama it needs no parental guidance. Every viewer findsShe usually exposes her siblings’ activities to their down and their nosy neighbours are no longer something in each episode that they can relate with.parents. as inquisitive as before? These are questions the Kamson and Neighbours shows weekly on AIT, LTV, audience keep asking, we have to keep watching OGTV, African Magic etc.Then there is Adisa, JFK’s illiterate step brother. The Kamson and Neighbours to find out.Kamsons have next door Neighbours, the Ibekwes, Kamson and neighbours narrates the ordeal andmade up of Francis the husband, Florence the wife, “ THE SOAP COMBINES A MIX OF ISSUES AND PERSONALITIES OF AN AVERAGE AFRICAN MIDDLE-CLASS FAMILY RESIDING IN A CITY TO ACHIEVE A SOLID ENTERTAINING DRAMA.” 89HF Magazine Edition 1, Volume 1.

HF Power CThe African entertainment industry like its counterparts around the world is blessed with its own version of entertainment power couples. Some of these public figures have weathered a lot of storms to stay married. Scandals, speculative rumors and alarming statistics of failed celebrity marriages and the incessant break ups of their liaisons are constant reminders of the staying power of these profiled icons. A tree, according to thetime tested African adage does not make a forest, and bearing in mind the phrase ‘it takes two to tango,’ we chronicle inthis first installment, the lives of some of these headliners who have been able to keep the fires of their respective conjugalbliss burning despite the many travails and bad press they usually have to contend with.Words By Myke Pam children to show for their undying love, the 71 year old Olu, an alumni of the Royal Academy of Dramatic Arts London and winner of the Best Actor In a Leading Role of the African Movie Academy Awards, AMAA 2007 and Joke, winner of the AMAA 2006 Best Actress In a Leading Role award and an alumni of the Webber Douglas Academy of Dramatic Arts London who just clocked 52 are definitely riding the matrimonial waves.OLU and JOKE JACOBS (Nigeria) TUNDE and WUNMI OBE (Nigeria)This couple remains one of the strongest motivating factors for some Two young hearts bound together by cupid’s arrow in 1988 through thecelebrities who plan to tie the nuptial knots with fellow celebrities. In fact, instrumentality of music. This highly creative and talented musical duo known todaytheir story is an inspiring one. Both are thespians of repute who kicked as TWO (Tunde Wunmi Obe), practically became one 25 years ago when they metoff their respective careers in the United kingdom before relocating back at a musical rehearsal session in Lagos. Tunde, son of a former Nigerian ambassadorhome with their wealth of experience to add panache to the then emerging and Wunmi, daughter of the venerable late publisher of the Punch Newspapers,film industry in Nigeria. The Jacobs who got married in 1987 are a lovely Chief Olu Aboderin had no inclination as at the time that they would eventually endcouple to behold. Their undying affection for each other can be glimpsed up as a reference point for other celebrity couples and would-be couples.anytime they are together, both in public and private functions as theirhands keep straying to touch or hold the other at any slightest opportunity. The hardworking couple who consecrated their ten years of courtship in an Elizabethan style wedding in 1998 is still one of the most enviable power couples in the Nigerian entertainment scene. Known for doing things together, this amazing couple famed for their instructive lyrics and musical videos have a classy musical ensemble known as TWO, a music label called Copykats and other sundry collaborative ventures including acting (Mr. and Mrs in the now rested Charley Boy Show) amongst others. Married with children, this 25 year old love story is waxing stronger by the day. A lot have been written and said about these multiple award winning couple and their compatibility as husband and wife. With two lovely90 HF Magazine Edition 1, Volume 1.

Couples HF ALEXANDROS and LIZZ KONSTANTARAS (Kenya) The love story of one of Kenya’s most prominent entertainment power couples is the stuff fairy tales are made of. The union of vivacious screen goddess Lizz Njagah and her producer/ actor husband Alexandros Konstantaras is worth chronicling. This eastern African version of Nigeria’s own Joke and Olu Jacobs have proven beyond all reasonable doubt that mind and matter do actually cohabit. Alexandros who proposed to the beautiful thespian in a classic romance novel style on the set of The Return of Lazarus is sure having a blissful marriage if feelers getting to your darling HF magazine are anything to go by. The match which was truly made behind the screen for the screens is still waxing stronger despite misgivings from Kenyan industry watchers who did not give them a chance to succeed, citing other failed celebrity marriages. CONNIE and SHONA FERGUSON (South Africa) South Africa’s own Connie and Shona Ferguson who star across each other in the popular South African sitcom, The Wild have been married for more than a decade now and they are not ready to let up yet. A beautiful couple, who seemed tailor made for each other, the Fergusons are a wonderful sight to behold anytime, anywhere. Be it on the screen or off it, they just shine for each other. Quoted by some media sources some time ago to have vowed to stick together, forever, these acting duo are formidable style icons and inspiration to plenty of celebrities and fans alike in SA and beyond. BEBE COOL and ZUENA KIREMA (Uganda) Known to his fans as Bebe Cool, this lyrically vibrant Ugandan Reggae artiste christened Moses Ssali at birth made a lot of Ugadan eligible bachelors and lascivious men envious when he walked the delectable and leggy former Miss Uganda Zuena Kirema down the aisle a few years ago. A marriage that has produced two lovely children, the union of these upwardly mobile young souls was celebrated nationally when it was consummated. Bebe, a dreadlock Rasta man who kicked off his musical career in Nairobi, the capital city of neighboring Kenya before relocating back to his native Uganda is most definitely a proud man. Teaming up with Kenya’s critically acclaimed duo of Necessary Noize to float a formidable reggae band aptly tagged The East African Bashment Crew, Bebe is truly having the best of two worlds. A beautiful beauty queen of a wife and a blossoming musical career is indeed, a wonderful combination. 91HF Magazine Edition 1, Volume 1.

HF ROCKERS Have you ever paused to ponder this prevalent funny situation where people who shouldn’t know are the ones called upon to vs decide the fates of people who are actually knowledgeable about issues at stake? Does it not irk you whenever you find incompetent FAKERS: heads running the affairs of sensitive sectors of the economy, be it public or private? Do you not feel like doing something untoward SPOTTING when confronted with fake ‘arse’ pretenders in any area of human THE endeavor you dabble into? DIFFERENCE Come to think of it, how do you really feel when you see people who With Myke Pam rock? People who are on top of their games with their heads and grey matters in the right places and securely intact? So many questions eagerly begging for answers, but unfortunately, the answers are “ For many grossly inadequate when compared with the myriads of questions being asked. years, piracy and Before I digress, it is important to note that HF Magazine is strictly apolitical in the real sense of the copyright abuse word and this column adheres completely to the ethics, vision and tenets of this continental platform. have been hanging Having said that, we also make bold to say that it is very pertinent for the truth to be told in its over this industry unclothed and stark reality, for the overall benefit of the African Entertainment scene and all industry like the proverbial practitioners; hence this hard line approach. So, if it actually takes two to tango, come on then and let sword of Damocles, us tango together. beheading, In this month’s discuss, we are taking a brief look at the bane of the entertainment industry in Africa as crippling and we know it. For many years, piracy and copyright abuse have been hanging over this industry like the incapacitating proverbial sword of Damocles, beheading, crippling and incapacitating countless numbers of creative countless numbers minds, projects and aspirations. of creative minds, projects and Copyright abuse, a scourge which has developed into a hyper-dreaded epidemic is now a wholesome endemic that has eaten deep into the body polity of the continent’s creative industry to the extent aspirations.” that most criminal minded individuals who view the industry as a goldmine are now spreading their dirty dragnets over the industry in association with some industry insiders who are bent on sucking the 92 HF Magazine Edition 1, Volume 1. juvenile lifeline out of this young industry. To worsen the already sickening circumstances, you now have situations where budding music acts in Nigeria and a few other African countries go caps in hand begging established pirates in sprawling markets like Alaba in Lagos to bootleg their creative works by incorporating the songs into what these buccaneers call compilations and/or mix tapes. The most painful aspect is that this desperate and oftentimes, ignorant artistes pay huge sums of money to these pirates to pirate them! Imagine going cap in hand to seek out a thief in his hideout and bargaining with him on how much you will pay him to come and rob you. I don’t mean a one off robbery, no. we are talking consistent robbery. What an irony! As an industry egghead, it beats my imagination whenever I hear stuff like this, because it neither makes an economic nor creative sense. The excuse some of these desperados give is that since it is not easy to get record deals and the hence vision and lifespan of mushroom labels are usually short lived, they at least have no other choice but to resort to enriching the pockets of the pirates. Most of them sincerely believe that with the mix-tapes and compilations, their songs at least gets to be heard in the pubs, public transports, night clubs and of course some street joints amongst others, thereby assuring them of some measure of publicity and the likes. But the questions are, who is fooling who? Are we building or are we destroying? What exactly do we want to achieve by complicating our already exacerbated cancer? Like I said before, we have more questions than answers. What is the way forward? Please send your reactions to www.hfmagazineonline.com or tweet at us on @hf_magazine or through facebook, hfmagazinefanpage.

OH NO! HFWCTaosbashcahhnlantasieeopcstngykrptwooawseTttgouoauraaedysnrsgrneateasuowectt.staad’BIhstmngleulasLeyritttionalnhytfnnetglehhody.edeaeonorr’aruunsT.scrnoKcWBtsknoeeurtnririkblodylaedegrrseDrceiehhofaieekyFCunemetosehhdlenelvaecre,tdsaer‘hiLprhsseoteletaniodrnyedpfexaaoLhdnoslnlitonbbuoBtdiynuthroeintbedndirlgwna. edgsmOhouineuimssnnlstofg?eaowchlykolsheioetnnerrrugtansgrrnoodcsggvwolhaueeweniermanssafiecse’an?tldldilss YOU DIDN’T!! So many things happen to celebrities all over the world, the good, the bad and the very ugly. Most celebrities get caught in awkward moments and that is what this column is about. My point is some can be avoided, but if you flash it, we will see it and if we see it, we are going to SCREAM out loud…Oh No You Didn’t…. Compiled by Akudo Abengowe, Pictures culled from The Internet. Janet Jackson’s Stage Gift to Fans Music stars can be dramatic, but nothing beats dramatic like a boob slip, especially on stage. Janet Jackson had an epic boob slip while performing a duet with Justin Timberlake. Though she later told reporters that she planned the whole thing. Can we ever forget that? Oh no! We won’t. Beyoncé & the Fan; A tale of Two Best friends Dear Rihanna We Have Seen Enough! dcychcriaogasBooeeaunefprnadt’yttsvnvhlio,,eonaanbwbrouniycuruketh.éattmdifClgetewkueahtweeosconee.hnrdpcse.wasaisNnynetwcagsohagd,easaweovwfn.etnoewnhYronreeiitldgteslhtlhee,hiinonrttha,ghugteet.itrhshsnGeeteohshoxtruaseaypegBignhaxpaeeynbweyoeon!cMkrfruewLertdosQwsaenhriuCxngdeesiarncMehsrerhnttaaoeasaimsrgrniBretdcbeergueyvlemeeft?eaidtinrlhtsyIiiahe’nttmnoearcgldphhycussaata,unhnhiurrttaceeaghsetnhaodiwtgnstivsahlkeieane RMawbbIbbPHeaaucauocArostrtloatguNec.huranylNReesiR’tnsearAiiheorRft!aildar!ftiy!!ninb!hfwansSoueahaiwrtrneeswdab,Iasrinhdoadteaetndsrvnoon’yCetbbrBrseffuelShlagal,se,messitThgthfhaushlelearhftstksui.elherainrseAyenctdtbddtgiiusotooanhttnfetoese.nfteclvBdGahnesulsreseenhtaiexstimmhisyknv…egmoeAiyn.rT,RhypetlsIeeaeHAt,rnrthLAattPamLitNoon.peNnBfTtaaoAhhhdrlbeeio!tlsysyr, BCdhfeWihlhipnuayveolshasoertwbhinyahlaeeBlcsinssHeeeCwdyOoowateoflTuJeolnaahccrycsdkaleeCdhnirZdh,ienpfaedwiortliroyssireyvfoogeilawriusdCvtsndroeietot’inhtlradptee’nhmtaphdehrnreitenoitsercrdhdeeussexu.dlhtynacaiIrttsgtsi‘soIvie.rwnearWbgeifpfeleopeaperrl’slersaglhae,aacsnemrwenessyasiev.tnbhehnBddlrieeneeeaor’xgydl.,t Akon the Calabar Hero time.hcpeorrefeefxeioCtwreTgnprhsowahsfhhsueeolitedutacainlrrtvrbetmaseeeacdainxtdvl’haersh.pdeiwedniieNanWnejarsuftgirirhgahohleimsdoneseem.nilhsgrrpecwsiocei.Seaeoroio,dWog.nsinnrftiwwnvriuhnhyaieihdnnantcive.tsotggcesArAeesratkkwsayshhoioshnnoieonontdegieh,ncrocetsieperehparoneasoewowbaA.rnuffiadakdpojgAalouy,lerhonbnmsrhttyo.efgoihoewnlstIut’errdmayeihmwbesycnaeudhoastdrcniuuAonctktclriekahhodcleeoeene,lsandpetatCthafarotmtowaaleypaltvtfmooafthietuegwnubheplhrgraeaittnrs Labyrinth was left beneath beautiful in Kent’s University TLasceUatahjiptsrshuxnhnnboneuietpamngeedhyfwrrrereoxgeerfepdhcdcotriernrettUwsrrtoiutotim’wnmfhnhhmwanremgaai’esaasudvletylsnotetshn.feLclhdotlBreeosaaelseidLyeuaydttib.o,h,thnrmnoyycBownawien’rrnnevmtktoaoiohegnehhftawetrethbiihKenobhnrssdemeatne.lfihnftneYacaetoipeoostsoicaurp.esjuetsectusoaTric.ratdffftihnaaIoutueeytgetgsBrelgomceiemhsthleBhuadihianetdarbsaeyiihguinotjt,vhtfuivithrcuhsemiIihemem’eefhtedmurie.rspyl 93HF Magazine Edition 1, Volume 1.

HF Street TRENDZ SOUTHSAtylFe RICAN Every street has its own creed, every city their own style. we give you the different hues, shades and colours of the South African streets... Africa’s tweaked fashion, by Africans and for Africans. From Soweto to Pretoria, Jo’burg to Durban, it’s our style, our world - this is SA street trendz. 94 HF Magazine Edition 1, Volume 1.

HFSTOCKISTS PLAYTIME JEWELLRY 08161287096, 08082656651 pin-2AF94F7F plot 13a, Onike Akande Street, 07063497191 Opposite Avalon House, OffJ.P.MATADOR GLOBAL LTD CROSS COLOURS BOUTIQUE Admralty Way, Lekki Phase 1,1st floor, shop no. 3, Obama shopping plaza, 48 SAPPHIRE SHOES 2 FadeyiStreet, opp Holy Trinity Hospital, off Lagos. 08022922922ImanLigali street, Mandilas, Lagos Island. [email protected] ObafemiAwolowo way, Ikeja, [email protected] sapphireshoe.com 08032509575, 08025301033 Jerryplus Salon, 2 Taordiri st,Jpmatador.com 08023554357 pin-24CBDDA2 Off Bode Thmas St, Surulere,08033305517, 08088846059 TUNDE MARCUS Lagos. 08023408166 EFFECI CLOTHING COMPANY [email protected] BOUTIQUE 30, Eric Manuel crescent, off Bode Thomas, tundemarus.com Moussa Moussa Studio, 1898 Emmanuel Street, Ogudu road, Lagos Surulere, Lagos 08034252155 Falolou St, Off Itire Rd, Suau-08027652259 Effecitailors.com TOPSY’S SHOES rulere St, Lagos 07033883000 08057868970 08023440881HOT STEPPER BOUTIQUEE246 Ikota shopping complex, V.G.C, Lagos JMY COUTURE KIMONO 95HF Magazine Edition 1, Volume 1.08020750531 Shop C114 road 2, Ikota shopping complex by [email protected] V.G.C, Ajah 07036273487TOTAL WRAP BOUTIQUE [email protected] ToyinStreet, 3rd floor, Ikeja, Lagos 08068296140, 08024773889 THE [email protected] [email protected], 07081893535 HEPHZIBAH STORES 08033247350 08023186819, 017946919EBI HOUSE OF FASHION MRPRICE APPAREL STORESuite 137, road 5, Ikota shopping complex,opp Eco BEJEWELLED KONCEPT MRP.combank, V.G.C, Lagos 08168482996 Daviva.com08139317578, 08059296259 ASOS.com G500 BOUTIQUE JASPERCONRAN.comSOARES ANTHONY CLOTHING 8 AbiodunJagunstreet, off Ijaiye road, Ogba, ALDO.comSuite 864 Iponri shopping complex, Surulere Lagos08028490211

HF AFRICAN SUPER BRANDS & Entertainment: The Correlation With Myke Pam t is indeed a beautiful sight these days to behold the productive marriageIof sorts between some super brands in Africa and African entertainment icons, projects and organs. One still remembers with nostalgic reflections when brands operating in the continent seemed not to take advantage of the abundant human and material resources available in the African entertainment landscape. Those were the days when these brands preferred to trumpet the triumphs of unreachable foreign stars to the detriment of the home grown ones. It might interest you to know that in spite of the rejections meted out to our own shining lights by the then largely foreign controlled conglomerates, the hardworking indigenous industry eggheads still trudged on, until Africans who understood the goldmine staring at their faces took up the gauntlet to reverse this ugly unpatriotic trend. Today, it is a different kettle of fish as the hitherto rejected stone has become the chief corner stone of this imposing modern house. A house fit for kings. So, like the proverbial phoenix, African entertainers are now rising out of the ashes of yesterday and are soaring into the horizon, one made for Africans by Africans. It did not happen overnight. It took the foresight, dedication and sincerity of purpose of a couple of big brands spearheaded by patriotically inclined Africans to right this age long wrongs. Most of the projects getting respectable endorsement from these brands include music/ movie/general entertainment talent hunts, sponsorship and bankrolling of movie projects, dance competitions, music and comedy concerts, reality television shows, endorsement of entertainment icons as brand ambassadors and other sundry entertainment events. Some of these highly commendable brands and their respective entertainment projects (most of them international Entertainment franchises) are listed below: MTN – Project Fame, Who Wants To Be Millionaire? Brand Ambassadors GLO – X-Factor, Naija Sings, Brand Ambassadors AIRTEL – Naija Got Talent, BBA, Tinsel, Brand Ambassadors ETISALAT-Nigerian Idols PEAK MILK- Peak Talent Hunt NBL – Star Quest, Star Mega Jam, Star Trek, Gulder Ultimate Search, Maltina Family Dance All, Amstel Malta Box Office GUINNESS BREWERIES – Malta Guinness Street Dance BGL – Heaven’s Hell (Nollywood) STERLING BANK – Spirited Actor (Talent Hunt) DIAMOND BANK – Money Drop /Brand Ambassadors UNILEVER – Lipton Brand Ambassadors Finally, without sounding pig headed, one can boldly say that the goose has finally come home to roost. Note: This is the first of the brand and entertainment chronicles, more brands holding sway all over the continent will be profiled in subsequent editions of your number one African entertainment journal. 96 HF Magazine Edition 1, Volume 1.

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