I am a spiritual person..KENNY KORE

Akinbode Kehinde Olumide fondly known as Kenny Kore, a former lead singer of the popular gospel group Infinity other wise known as Olori Oko crooners have been able set a landmark in 2007 after receiving seven awards at the Soundcity Music Video Awards and as such taking gospel music to yet another height. No as a solo artiste, Kenny Kore spoke with MUTIAT ALLI and OGUNLADE ESTHER about life without his group and his pet project amongst others.




As a former member of the popular gospel group Infinity, do you think that the market would be favourable for you?
Yes, it might be hard penetrating into the music scene as a solo artiste, but I believe the stand I have been able to maintain as a former member of my group gives me that impression that I would be accepted, it might be late but definitely it’s a gradual process. I realize the fact is that people had loved us as a group and they still do so, I have a concern for that and I’m sorry about it. I’m a spiritual person and according to his direction I move. I know people will ask question and some still wish we are together.
What have you been involved in after you left the group?
I have not been resting simply because I have been in the studio doing some recordings and writing out lyrics. In a nut shell I have been busy because I am not ready to retire in the music world yet.
What do think differentiates you from your other colleagues in the music world?
I believe everybody is born with a unique and talents that cannot be taken away from you and my voice as a vocal artiste gets to stand me out. Remember I told you that I was the lead singer in my former group and as such the rich content of my voice paved way for us. Let me say this that I am not saying that I have got the best voice but a least I am a good singer.
Why did you leave group Infinity in the first instance?
My leaving the group was on a neutral ground, perhaps its going to be two years by June / July that I left the group for good. I don’t want to put to much attention on it because people kept on asking me why I left my members. We have been together for eleven years but I left because I received the callings of God and I believe it was time for me to move forward .Like I said I wouldn’t also have gotten the courage the leave if it wasn’t what God wanted me to.
Are you trying to say your leaving the group does not have to do with any controversy?
If our fans think I left due to controversy, I don’t blame them because the history of groups and break up in the past and recently have been linked with several controversial issues. For instance, a particular member of the group would say I wrote the first track while others would just come up with other things. When people heard I’ve left the group they where like why don’t you make it controversial for the press to publicize it. Why do they always think controversy will make news for anybody? In any case making it controversial will only make me start to write and destroy the image of my guys which I cannot do because without their support, I would not be where I am today, perhaps, I was able to make a name as a result of the success recorded by the group.
Does that imply that cordial relationship still exists between you and your former group?
To be candid on this issue, for the fact that I left the group does not mean that I cannot have something doing with my guys. We are human beings and as such we are not perfect. Aside the fact that we had quarrel in the past does not mean we are not friends, I see pay them visit and talk on the way forward as far as the entertainment industry is concern.
When should we expect an album from you?
Yes I have an album titled Eledumare that is already gaining massive airplay in most radio stations; this is just the beginning of my revolution.
What does your new album preaches?
My album preaches integrity amongs other things because what I have noticed in our society is that we don’t get to correct what we see as ills in the society, but this is part of what my album preaches and I believe it would do the society and the country at large a lot of good.
What should your fans expect from you as a solo artiste?
My fans should not be in a hurry as everything in this life requires time, basically what has been coming from my heart as an artist is recording a music that would impact a positive change in the lives of the listeners. For instance in my album I have a track titled Yannibo that addresses the issues of fidelity and another one titled Bebelube that addresses the issues of respecting the elderly ones which we no longer have in our society. These are real life issues which even Christians are guilty of. I want my fans to be patient and as well endeavor to get a copy of the album as it is good property for the home.
Have you not been criticized for leaving the group and as well received comments about your album?
Definitely, I have received a lot of critics from friends, fans and close associate but I believe later they would understand, and on the part of my album, I actually gave room for that because at the back of album, I wrote my personal line there so that when people listen to the songs on the album, they have the opportunity to call me and give their comment on it as there room for improvement.
Artistes today give more preference to the returns they get in the making of a CD, rather than take time on the lyrical contents. What is your opinion on this issue?
To me this issue needs proper attention because most of the music we listen to do not have a good lyrical content. To be candid as well, we all need money; I want money I will make money. Every artiste wants to make fast money and by so doing, they don’t attach importance to their lyrics and this is actually affecting our society and the future of our children. Part of what I’m doing is to make publication so that people will know what we stand for. Our musical content should be that which preaches good news that we can be responsible, respectful and that we can love our self.
Do you think you are missing out anything since you left your former group?
Sure, I miss a lot of things but most of them are personal issues, you know certain times when I am about doing things alone, I just think of them because usually we had joint ideas where everyone contributes to the growth of the group, but I know as time goes on I would be used to the single things alone.
What genes of music are you into?
I’m a gospel artiste and I am a socially responsible person, what that means is that I am not a religious person to certain extent because there are some issues religious people don’t talk about which I do. Religious people don’t talk about money, sex and politics but I do that in my music because I was formally a social preacher before I became religious.
Have you find any record label?
No, I have not found any yet because I get to understand one thing about Nigerian producers that a time don’t go for that cool and gospel like music, rather they go for that music that has got a lot of swag and all that. Presently I run my music thing personally under Kennykore production. I don’t want get distracted that is the more reason why I am doing my things myself.
As an artiste do you think the music industry is moving forward?
I will say Yes and No, Yes in the sense that we the artiste are trying our best but the pirates are just killing us as they tend to get the larger share of the production money by what they do and as such they not helping matter at all. No, in the area of bad structure as far as the entertainment industry is concern because our leader’s gives little or less priority to the musicians and this is really affecting us because when you go to other countries, you get to see that the government gives more attention to their artistes. What I want our leader to do is on the area of lyrical content because when there is a law that requires an artiste to bring his or tracks for verification that is passing through several stages before the track is allowed to go air, I believe this would help reduce bad lyrical contents in our Nigerian music.
What advice do you have for up-coming artiste?
My word to them is that always be original in whatever you and more importantly if you have a dream or desire never rest on your oars, battle until you finally get it.
What inspires your kind of music?
I don’t drink nor smoke to get inspired but God Almighty inspires me more as he directs the kind of music I do.

AN INTERVIEW AFTER DEATH

As the world celebrates one year after the death of King of pop music, Michael Jackson popularly known as Waco Jacko yesterday, many speculations has been made as regards his life time achievement and how he has been able to affect the musical industry in the world. Jacko as he his fondly called by his teaming fans would be remembered in the industry, most especially the moon walk style that distinguishes him from other stars. Jackson might have come and gone but his sweet memories would continue to linger in the hearts of his fans. Write MUTIAT ALLI.



MJ, please could you give us reasons why you sang your kind of songs?
(Laugh), it’s a “THRILLER”……..
There is a beginning to everything we do in life and that’s why the ABC of my music career came with me assuring my fans that “I’LL BE THERE” for not just cause, except the fact that I “GOT TO BE THERE” in order to win their heart. Anyway, that was just one phase of my life as a young artiste.
As an adult, my music career became”OFF THE WALL” with my slogan “DON’T STOP TILL YOU GET ENUFF”.
It’s only “HUMAN NATURE” that I saw a “PRETTY YOUNG THING” and concluded that “THE GIRL IS MINE” simply because I feel “BUTTERFLIES in my belle. If you remember my single “I JUST CAN’T STOP LOVING YOU”, then you can decide I was telling her “THAT THE WAY YOU MAKE ME FEEL”, sooner or later, after I got a paternal suit of “BILLIE JEAN”, everyone found out that the girl was “DIRTY DIANA”, because she was a “LIBERIAN GIRL” and that was just another beginning of my life as a celebrity.
I had to “SAY SAY SAY, to everyone that “I WANT TO BE STARTING SOMETHING” but they all thought that deep down “IN THE CLOSET” I was “DANGEROUS”. I was charged for child molestation because they say me as a “BAD” and a good for nothing “SMOOTH CRIMINAL”.
I wonder if anyone ever cared to know which I preferred “BLACK OR WHITE”. The truth is, I preferred black but I always “REMEMBER THE TIME” of discrimination. Through out this time, I was forced to “BLAME IT ON THE BOGGIE” the reason for my transformation. All the same, the blame cannot be 100% because it is just “ANOTHER PART OF ME” and “I CAN’T HELP IT”.
HMMMMM………….
Because I was “INVINCIBLE” while alive, I made sure nothing could separate “MUSIC AND ME”, even I don’t know what an “UNBREAKABLE” pair we made. And so I embarked on a journey to no where, but became “A STRANGER IN MOSCOW” and automatically became “SPEECHLESS”, then I heard an assuring voice “YOU ARE NOT ALONE” my child “YOU CAN BEAT IT?
Thanks MJ, but it’s been a long journey so far, you’ve got anymore for us?
MJ: Yea I have got some more to say
See, “ONE DAY IN YOUR LIFE” you wake up to look at the “MAN IN THE MIRROR” but all you see is a “GHOST” that people can’t stop loving, then you decide to ask for “ONE MORE CHANCE”.
As your death day draws nearer, you ask yourself “WHAT MORE CAN I GET” but all you hear is a “JAM” followed by a “SCREAM”……..and now there “BLOOD ON THE DANCE FLOOR”.
So, that’s where Michael could stop with us, but undoubtedly, the blood began spilling as he rehearsed for a series of 50 come back concerts scheduled for last year, but cardiac arrest came forth on the 25th of June. It was the “BREAK OF DAWM!!! And Michael, we” NEVER CAN SAY GOODBYE”, you were”GONE TOO SOON”.
In his word, it’s in our hand to “HEAL THE WORLD” because “ WE ARE THE WORLD”. To all those who remember him, he says, “YOU ROCK MY WORLD”

Cobhams: viriles vision

At this moment, you can't make a list of producers and not be tempted to place Cobhams Emmanuel Asuquo on the top of your pick. The architect of the unarguably and widely-accepted album (Asa) of the year can't just stop churning out remarkable and award-winning hits. For all that he's achieved, the visually-impaired singer-producer who was born blind will never agree to personal accomplishment, neither will he seize any occasion to drum up nor draw praises to himself.

While many are petrified over and wonder how he's able to do what he does, Cobhams makes no fuss about it. Call him a rare breed and you haven't muddled up a word. On the Wednesday we met at his studio in GRA, Ikeja, the songwriter, singer, arranger and producer didn't betray any emotions over his condition, instead he's appreciative to His maker.


"There is hardly a thing I do. I wake up and I say, God, you know what, this is the deal. I don't know how this thing is going to happen but it is your name out there more than mine. Some people say mine but the big picture is your name. So let's save the situation again. He always does. So quite frankly, I am not sure I have anything spectacular. I just allow myself to be used and I'm happy."


If you weigh his achievements in the industry, then you'll appreciate why his happiness is not in minuscule measure. As I sat in the reception of his studio where his P.A asked that I waited, my eyes roved round the small confinement where a water dispenser, a glass-made desk and three wooden chairs were sparsely but neatly arranged. As I sat, waiting to have my turn as the next guest of the ex-pupil of Pacelli School for The Blind and ex-boy of the prestigious Kings College, my mind kept racing on how I'll conduct myself in the presence of the blind lad idolized in industry.

While I sat thinking, a door opposite me opened and out came a lady and the man I was here to meet.
As both guest and host made for the exit door, I expected this son of a former military officer to be aided but without a stick (he hardly ever uses one) or human support, he matched out eerily after his guest with their banters seizing the quietness of the reception area. I sat there and was still thinking how he could have strolled out without any aide when a voice rang out in soft tones, "Please shut that door, it's unprofessional to allow not yet released songs to get out of the studio." The song I could decipher who sang had been sieving out of speakers holed inside what I suspected was the recording studio from when I got in.
Immediately after his admonition, Cobhams strolled towards a door behind me that I suspected led to the studio. Moments after, he reappeared and headed towards his office, reeling out few instructions to his personal assistant who before then had pleaded with me for patience to which I responded: "No problem."


Born to Anthony Bassey and Gladys Asuquo in 1981, Cobhams nurtured his love for music by immersing himself in various sounds while growing up. In a world where personal achievements can sometimes get so overwhelming, the hitmaker who took the decision to embrace God at the age of 19 and in the confines of his room is not snowed under all that he's achieved.


"I am just grateful. I recognize the fact that I am part of the process. You might do a good beat for a good artist and you might still not sell. The market generally is crazy. I think I have been fortunate; I don't take it for granted. The confidence I have is that the works of my hands have been blessed. And I don't know about feeling on top of the world but I am excited."
Much of his life has been spent in different place- Jos, Abuja, Katsina, Lagos and England where he grew up listening to all genres of music which somewhat helped his neurotic ability to create sounds. "I appreciate each and every brand of music and I took in the different aspects, dynamics, elements, components, characteristics, different dimensions to make sounds. It helps my ability to integrate different genres of music."
Long before Question Mark slammed its doors on Asa, Cobhams and the rest of the other travelers on the label, a few people wrote the songstress (Asa) off as just a one-hit star because all she could brandish for almost four years was a single, ?Eye Adaba'. But in 2007, Asa, through the production wizadry of Cobhams and the backing of Naﶥ Records gave Nigerians a classic many never imagined would be embraced by a listening public that had been led away by Pop music. From the moment the album dropped in the last quarter of 2007, all gaze turned to one person; the man who wrote, co-wrote and produced the masterpiece that redefined music in Nigeria and further announced Nigeria's arrival on global music stage. Acceptance was critical at the point of making the album because Hip Hop and Pop music from Nigerian and international artiste had saturated the environment and it had become risky to do music with neo-soul flavour. The gamble paid off.
"In Nigeria, yes I was scared. Abroad, not necessarily because I mean when you go out, you hear all kinds of stuff they play. For us, because we have been tele-colonized by the Americans again (I believe the whole world is being re-colonized by the Americans), we pay so much attention and regard to Hip Hop and popular American style music. Well, I was just generally optimistic. It was a risk that was taken and has paid off."
The debate over whether it is possible for Nigeria to have a music identity like Ghana has done with Hiplife cropped up during our conversation and Cobhams thinks it will take a while for Nigeria to create its own unique sound.
"You will agree with me that the average Ghanaian is still more conservative than the average Nigerian. So they are able to sustain the dynamics of their kind of music for a longer period of time as opposed to Nigeria. The Plantashun Boiz, The Def O Clans, The Styl Plus's and the Tetuila's of this world have defined what we know in the sense, as the new age Nigerian music." "We are yet to carve that final niche but we are on the path to carving it for ourselves. It is a process and I think it is still evolving; although the process has been affected negatively and positively by a lot of factors."
The Question Mark era was one period many expected so mush but the ship of the once blossoming label hit the rocks and all the occupants were thrown off board at different times and in varied circumstances before it set sail. Asa and Cobhams had formed a bond and it was not surprising that even after they freed themselves from Kelvin Lucianos claws, they moved on together. Even though he shies from discussing that era, Cobhams who can dial his mobile phones by himself says he picked a lot of lessons from the episode.
"I learnt that there is music and there is music business. And music business is business. I have learnt to follow standard practice. And I learnt that if you give every man what is due him, you will always have more than enough. I learnt to be straight. I learnt to run my own business and to be a better administrator. The producer who is looking forward to starting his own family however offers his relationship with Kelvin is cordial. "My relationship with him is very good. He is a great friend. He gave me a platform to a certain degree and I will not disregard that."
While he won't disregard the finger that once fed him, he derides the state of the industry and wishes people in the business and those coming into it, particularly labels will understand the business and put in place proper structures. "It breaks my heart that a number of people who are setting up record labels do so without an artiste repertoire (A&R). Music business is studied. People pay huge sums of money to go to Brooklyn to study Music Management. You don't just get up and set up a label. It is like banking. You just don't get up and own a bank. There are standard procedures in music that need to be studied. People need to carry out surveys, study and get information about the market."
He produced his first officially-released song at the age of 16 for a gospel artiste, Paul Nasha but the album produced at Charley Boy's New Wave Production Studios in Gbagada never made it to the ears of mainstream audiences. He would however get better acclaim after producing Maintains ?Catch Cold' and ?Live In India' in which the now defunct trio-group of Olu, Tolu and Big Bamo was magnanimous enough to mention his name on the track. From that humble background, he has built a resplendent resume worth peering into.
Cobhams abandoned his law education in 2004 at the University of Lagos because he felt the structure did not encourage people in his peculiar situation to achieve their desires. As much as he so wished to become a legal luminary since a tender age, he realized the system is not wired to give knowledge but wired to make students read and sail through. "I didn't want to cram and pass. Life and self- awareness mean a lot to me than just cramming and passing. So even though my grades weren't bad, I decided to opt for something more realistic which was music."
He believes getting a degree at all cost would be corrupting the existing structure and didn't want to be a part of that. "They say no knowledge is lost but I believe that if you want to gain knowledge; gain specific knowledge in different areas within a short period of time instead of spending much time studying a subject that will not be of value to you."
The claps and cheers that reverberated inside the hall on the day he was crowned producer of the year could have caused some others a shrill excitement but the humble producer who once smoked, frolicked with women and engaged in other earthly vices seized the moment to simply appreciate God, his family and his fans whom he described as ?friends'. Such is the unassuming nature of the man who loves to read, write, talk and sing and whose productions rumble with creativity, depth, funk, soul, wit and evoking twirls. His ability to cook fluid beats, ease off to rock and blend thunderous sparks with somber beats stands his enviable resume out anyday. That is why Rooftop MC's, Nikki, Modenine, Silver Sadih, Dekunle Fuji, Faze, Dare Art-Alade, and an army of singers will do anything to have their songs blessed by his production compliments.
International calls haven't come short too. His deal with Sony Music which attracted so much commentary after it was brokered and made public in 2006 has come under intense focus from the media over the viability and realness. He tells me the deal is real and on: "I am signed on to Sony Publishing as a songwriter. They collect royalties for the songs that I write and they are supposed to help me get some writing opportunities for international artistes."
Apart from Asa who has become an international star, Laura Isabelle, a UK-born singer is another artiste the Sony deal has caused him to work with and he says there are prospects for more international collaborations. Blessed with an awesome voice that will make many wannabes loitering around scamper away, he's playing the prospect of a Cobhams-album down till the time he thinks is right. His mesmerizing delivery on Rooftop MC's song, La Gi Mo and Dekunle Fuji's Mo Like Jesu Gan have nonetheless made the demand more rousing than ever before.
"Sometimes, I am under pressure to do it (album). At other times, I feel that it is not time for me to do it. But I know that eventually, it will be done ?cos I realize that the demand is growing and it is good to make a move when there is demand."
Because he is an incurable optimist and innately ambitious, he never dwells so much on past achievements rather, he's pushed by the need to do more. Cobhams knew at age six that he wanted to be rich and become a lawyer. At ages seven and eight, he started playing music and when he clocked 10, he recognized he was born to become extra-ordinary and he started working on his road plan to the top.
"Everything I have achieved in life is as a result of favour, mercy and grace but also, result of my brains. I had always dreamt that this is what I am going to do with my life. I can say that I am living my dreams. Yes, I have always been ambitious. For me, with every task accomplished, there is a new task ahead."


He is working on a major project he refused to disclose even after pressing persuasion but he reveals among many wishes his desire to settle down soon with his long-time girlfriend, go on few vacations, add value to the society, become more environmentally-friendly, understand and love God more and shockingly, go into politics.
"I aspire to someday be either a commissioner or minister of Arts and Culture in wherever I am led to serve. Nigeria is one. That is why I am here. I am knocking on doors and asking for attention. It will open gradually. The game plan and whole idea is to change the impression." For a man who has done so much in music, it won't be proper to write off his ambition as a tall dream cos' this mans vision is too virile.

Foxtrot record sign on lace, Annex and pin

Fast rising entertainment outfit Foxtrot Record is ready for its official launching as the outfit debut with three new whiz kids; Lace, Annex and Pin.
These three newly signed acts are now out with their first singles that are currently enjoying massive airplay in most radio stations and clubs.
However, Lace is out with a hit single titled Sebiwo, Annex on the other hand is out with King of the Jungle featuring Konga while Pin is out with Won ti sanwo.
According to the CEO of foxtrot record outfit, Mr. Fatai Akanmi, he noted that the outfit is a very veritable platform for talented young acts who can freely express and unearth their innate musical talent.

MANAGING THE AFFAIRS OF A COUNTRY LIKE NIGERIA IS VERY CHALLENGING..KEN NNAMANI

Kenneth Ugwu Nnamani, a man of reputes and ever determined has over the years been able to cut his teeth pretty well in the country where he served as a one time senator who represented the People’s Democractic Party (PDP), Enugu in 2003. He was appointed chairman of the Committee on Federal Character & Governmental Affairs and member of Committee on Privatization, Federal Capital Territory and Appropriation & Finance.
As if this was not enough, Nnamani became the Senate President of Nigeria between 2005 and 2007 where he served diligently. This business guru also holds a BBA and MBA degree holder from the Ohio University in Athens. Nnamani took the baton of leadership of the Senate from Adolphus Wabara, reeling out ideals of transparency and integrity, in a Senate where the banana peel syndrome had drowned seemingly greater mortals, not a few people raised skeptical hues. Often described as a hero of the death of the third term agenda, Nnamani spoke to MUTIAT ALLI about some of experiences as one time Senate President, his family and one memorable struggle he will never forget during his tenure.


Considering the fact that you were one of those competent leaders who served the country right, what is the main secret behind your kind of leadership?
For the fact that I was appointed a one a time Senate President of the country then does not mean I have to carry it on my head because a leader would always be a leader in the way he/she discharges the duties assigned to him. Every leader has there own ways of contributing to the country that they served as I strongly believe in three driving forces; determination, steadfastness and accountability because when you bear this three keys in mind, you strive hard to carry out your duties effectively.

You have showed interest in the growth and development of Nigeria as a country and still believes you have done nothing much, in what we way are you trying to reposition to the present state of the country?
One thing I weigh upon lies in the fact that, Nigeria has the resources to better the life of its citizens but rather than carry out their roles well, they go through shady ways to deceive the people that we have got no resources. I believe if our government is not ready to help the country regain its balance, then there is need to call on the youths who have the power lying in between their palms. It really baffles me when I see how some of the so called leaders lavishly spend the money that belongs to the country. There is a need for Nigerians to think twice before casting their votes as the country needs a change. It is Nigeria here that I see that there is no cooperation between the government and the people whom they served, compared to other countries, you get to see the people making serious contributions towards the growth of their country, we are bent on keeping our ideals known to ourselves alone, since our government did not give room to participatory governance, then how do we move forward.

So do you think calling on the youth is the right solution to the problems of the country?
Yes, although every one has a role to play in the development of this country as much is expected majorly from the youth as they play prominent functions. The youth decides on whom they want as their leaders that is why you see mostly during the election, you see politicians calling on the youths for their supports because they have their ways of mobilizing other members within their peer group to heed to a particular decision. Every youth is unique in one way or the other but at the end of the day, their decisions amounts to the same things. This is clarion call to all the youths to stand up and represent their country, fight for the state of the country and as well procure lasting solutions. For instance when programme is organized for the adult, you don’t get to see a large turn-out compared to when a programme is targeted towards the youths, you see them come in large numbers, they inform their friends and colleagues on reasons why they don’t have to miss out in a programme of such nature. The adult believes they know it all, but this is not helping the country. The always think of ways they could contribute to the growth and development of the country, I seize this medium to urge the government of the need to create a room so that the contributions made the youths can be considered if truly we want to get to the promise land.

At first, when you were came out for the senatorial seat under the People’s Democractic Party (PDP) in Enugu, what were the things you that was going through your mind?
I was a little bit naïve considering the task ahead of me, later I challenged myself that if other people can do it and create a legacy, why would I not be able to do. When I was finally a member of the team, I was always thinking on the ways I would adopt to make my tenure remarkable. There was a day I was even having the thought that where I am actually going now, there is every tendency that I would be meeting people from various cultural background, the high tempered ones and the rest, so I had to comport myself in addressing people. I could remember my first week in the house, I would bring out my jotter to draw up a plan to be carried out for that week and at the end of each week, I evaluate myself if necessary then later I would call on my friends to inquire from if what I actually did for the week was good enough. I strongly believe in challenges, so I make sure I live and carried out my roles up to expectation.

As a one time Senator and President of the Senate, your impact was really felt as you use your position and intellect to reposition the status of Nigeria’s democracy; we say kudos to you?
Thank so much, I told you earlier that when you are assigned a duty to carry out, then let your impact be felt because when you do the right thing at the right time, you get a reward for it and when you do the other way round, you get a comment because people are watching you, I see myself as a role model to people out there and so there is a need for me to think before taking decisions because when I do the wrong thing, what legacy am I creating for those who look up to me. I don’t want my regime to seen as one of the worst but rather there should be a positive talk about my time, which was the more reason why I worked so hard to save my name and my reputation. I made sure I discharged my obligations well because when I know I cannot carry out a duty well, then why should I accept the offer of been the Senate President that is one of the main issues our leaders should look into be appointing their team mates because in most cases we see that most leaders given roles to play don’t carry it out as expected of them as this is one of the factors contributing to the ill-health of the country.

Which will you consider more challenging; as a Senator or the Senate President?
I will say both of them because they have their own benefit and challenges but thank God, I was able to scale them all with the supports from my other colleagues both as a senator and senate president. More importantly, I will say without been biased that my term as the Senate President is what I consider as tedious, challenging and what have you because I know many thought I could not make it but I disappointed their views and opinions. There are times when I think about some issues, I lose hope talking to myself that” Ken can you do it” and immediately I have this second hope that with all things been equal; I can make it happen.

Taking about challenges, could you re-call any one that you think gave you tough times all through your administration?
That will be on the issues of the third term agenda which I fought till the last day my tenure ended. I said one thing the day I resume the office as the senate president that my own tenure will be seen as the President of the Senate, determined in the Senate, by the Senators and for the Senate. Even at a point when the issue of the third term was becoming unbearable for me to handle, I was still steadfast and determined that the bill will not stay because I stood by the constitution, due process and the rule of law, and by a transparent conduct of public affair in due deference to the mandate of the electorate above personal, party and extraneous consideration, our dream of a new way, a vibrant democracy will survive.

With the pressure faced during the issues of the third term agenda, will you say you achieved the task and success alone?
Although, the death of the agenda was not achieved alone but rather, it was a collective effort that was moved by me. Let me say here that the Economic Finance and Crime Commission (EFCC) under the then leadership of Nuhu Ribadu played a more prominent role in the death of third term; close monitoring of some proponents of the third term agenda stalled some of their planned actions. The struggle would not have been a success if not for the support of those who actually believed in what a true democracy was.

While growing up, where your parent rich?
I will say my parent was not rich at all but at least we could still afford to eat three square meal and they were able to send me to school and we had houses so many places.

So what was growing-up like for you?
Growing up has always been fun and a memorable one for me because I enjoyed every bit of it because whenever I remember some of the things I did while I was young; I just laugh it off. I was neither stubborn nor play pranks on my parents.

Any nostalgia while growing?
Not at all, but all I could say is that whenever I travel out the country, it doesn’t take me short time to come back because I always felt like coming back to home; there is no place like home at all.

As a person in high position, how have you been able to females who will want to cluster around you as the Senate President?
To me dealing with human beings most especially the female counterpart can be difficulty putting at the back of your mind that you can never chase them all. The only way I think ladies may want to move close to me is either when I am in function and I don’t think I give room for that because I will make them understand the fact that I am married man with children.

Considering the task and challenges and ahead of you, how long do you spent with your family?
None as I don’t spend more time with them because when am back at home, the only thing I do is to go to bed after the stress of the day. To me I believe it’s just a sacrifice that would last for some time because I don’t get to see myself interact with my family members as I used to before assuming this position. It’s all over now as I now spend more precious time with them and they are really enjoying it most especially my wife.

Then as the senate president, it is believe you pay less attention to your family, don’t you feel it’s a kind of problem?
Yes, it’s really a problem but who am I to complain, it’s a challenge and task that I have to overcome so as to bring out a good result. Serving a country is as good as you working around the clock because probably when you seems to want to dedicate a bit of time with your family, then you receive calls to come settle or address an issue in the house which I must comply to because it was my duty. So because of my passion for delivery, I know some things would be affected.

How do you un-wind?
Not for now because I am so busy to be found somewhere drinking. The only two places I unwind is to be at home or in the office.

Will you say you enjoyed every bit of the years you use in serving the country?
Definitely, I enjoyed every single bit of it, in spite of the enormous challenges faced during those periods, I was fulfilled that my impact was felt in the ministry I served. Although, you should understand the fact that there is no how you will be doing the right thing that you will never have enemies but thank God, I was able to carry out my duties and I discharged very well. I thank God that I was able to abide my words that my mission was to redesign and revamp the image of the National Assembly, to adhere strictly to the task of bill-making, law-churning, prudence and accountability and to be committed to patriotic ideals of a builder in the legislative arm of governance.

After your tenure as the Senate President, what legacy will you be remembered for?
Aside the fight against the third term agenda, so also will I be remembered for Nnamani Centre for Leadership and Development which was launched in Abuja, Nigeria's federal capital city, with the goal of facilitating qualititative and transformative leadership and development in Africa

My marriage to my ex husband really slowed me down- Ayo Adesanya

Ayo Adesanya Hassan burst into the movie scene in the early when she featured in the now rested soap opera entitled Palace. Her profile later got the needed boost with her roles in two other movies Out of Bounds and Most Wanted which earned her a romance with relative fame. Inspired by her ex husband, Omogoriola Hassan, Ayo who recently turned movie producer says she is ‘living her dream’. The Language and Communications Art graduate of the University of Ibadan revealed that and more in this interview with MUTIAT ALLI.

How difficult or easy is it for you to interpret your roles?
It isn’t that difficult; all I do is do what I do very well. I wouldn’t say I know it all; whatever correction that comes from the director I take it. I always tell people that no matter what they do, they should watch and listen and make additional contributions too, that helps. With that they’ll definitely get whatever they are doing right.

A lot of people feel that your delving into the Yoruba movie genre made you lose out in the English category………
That was not the reason why I lost out in the English genre. I guess it had to do with my marriage too. Because when I was with my ex, the marriage actually slowed me down. I wasn’t giving it my all, because in acting you have to give it your all, to make something out of it you have to give it your all. It is hard being an actress and a married woman. It’s going to slow a lot of things down for you really. It’s either your spouse understands and allows you to do certain things or he is always stopping you, saying you can’t do this or you can’t do that.

Talking about your marriage, were you the one turning down scripts or was it your spouse blocking you or your manager?
May be my manager, but the manager was directed by someone. It wasn’t as if the manager took matters into his hands. He was taking instructions from someone, and nobody is going to wait for you forever, if you are not forth coming. They are going to build somebody else that will take over. At a point, when my husband understood, he said okay, let’s do some movies together and we started working together. And when we started working together it was more of our own productions. I was working mainly on our own production. So, I guess that slowed me down for some time. It actually slowed me down.

You once said your marriage was about killing you, what do you mean by that?
For now, I don’t want to go into that because he is gone for good and here I am doing well. I believe I went into the wrong marriage because I did not take my time to study my spouse, but thank God am out of it already and I am moving on with my life.

What is the biggest lesson you have learnt in the past forty years?
I have never thought about that. But now that I am thinking, I think the biggest lesson that I have learnt is to be more careful in whatever you do. The biggest lesson I believe is, to be careful in making decisions.

What was growing up like for you?
Well, growing up was fun. I grew up with my mum because I lost my dad when I was 19. I was then a fresher at the University of Ibadan. I grew up with my mum and my three brothers. And ever since, we’ve lived together. We were together till I went for my youth service in Imo State. I went back to Ibadan before moving to Lagos in the 80s.

You lost your father at very tender age, how were you able to cope with that?
Yes, I actually lost him when I was 19, I was pained. It was as if my life had come to an end because I was really close to him. Most of the things I know, I learnt from him while he was alive. I was really sad. It was like there was nothing left for me when my father died.

How and when did you start acting?
I started acting in 1996. I went to AIT for a job interview because then I had just lost my job for going to work late. I was working with Pothin Nigeria Limited along Agege Road. I was one of their marketing officers; it was at that point that I realized that lateness can cost you your job.

Has acting been worthwhile for you?
I will say yes, because it has a lot of advantages, aside the fame and popularity, I have been able to mingle with different people from different backgrounds. I also think my acting career has been very helpful to me in the sense that it made me realize what the world really means and what it has to offer.

Would you say you have been able to manage stardom?
Well, I have had some unfortunate experiences in my life really, so I don’t think I have gotten to where I want to be. If you ask me, there is still a place I am going to which I know God is taking me. I don’t know where it is. I have a feel of where it is, I can’t really say my fame has come.

Would you say infidelity was one of the reasons behind your broken marriage?
I was always sincere and honest with my ex because I believe when you are into a marriage contract; you give 100% attention to it. I don’t believe that eighty percent of celebrity marriages crash due to infidelity because at times, things might not just work out for both parties and they just have to separate for peace to reign. The dissolution of my marriage was not based on infidelity because I never cheated on him. I believe I have endured a lot of things that are personal to me and I made the decision to quit as fast as I could. The fact is that, for six years I was enduring and patching things up all in the name of keeping a marriage, and when I couldn’t take it anymore I decided to call it quits.

So how has life been without Goriola?
Goriola is just a name, at least I have been living my life before I met him and now that we parted ways, I am still my very self but sincerely speaking, I must tell you that it is sad losing a marriage of over eight years, but life has to go on.

It is believed that your estranged husband is now busy taking roles more than you do………..
In this life, every body does not move in the same direction, so may be it is his time but trust that I am not also doing bad with the roles I secured lately.

Do you agree that the industry is getting more competitive?
I agree that the industry is getting more competitive and challenging because this does not apply the film industry alone as it cut across other profession. Take for instance, the several communication industry we have around, everyone is trying to be unique in their way as they introduce several packages for their customers, this also applies to the film industry because you now see producers shooting films with a high definition camera and as well the actors and actress putting more life to the roles they play and it goes on. So also, we have new stars coming new, then you find the old ones like doing everything possible to secure good roles so that our chances are been taken over by new set of actors coming into the industry.

You recently released your self produced movie Edun Ara, what has been the reception of people considering the fact that Omogoriola your ex-husband did not produce it?
The reception has been very nice and encouraging because I have received endless calls from my teaming fans praising me for a job well done. Although I was used to Goriola producing all movies but I thought this was high time I do something on my own after all, I introduced him into the industry. He has done is little contribution to the success of my career and now I am coming out to tell the world that I can actually make it even without his support.

So what is the major lesson of your new movie Edun Ara?
The major lesson in the movie is that we should be cautious and remain focus in whatever we are told to go and do in school because you find out that when most of our children are been sent to school, rather than give attention to their primary assignment, they get carried away by other unnecessary things. I believe the movie is a must watch for everybody.
How successful will you say you are now?
I wouldn’t say I am successful; rather I will borrow the word comfortable because at least I can afford to eat the three square meals without begging. I don’t usually count my blessings or success because I believe my lord will still do more.

So if you are not on set or busy, then how best do you un-wine?
I am a television freak person; I just sit at home to be entertained. I watch a lot of movies and TV soaps, but if I am not watching my TV set and I think am bored at all then the right option for me is to go clubbing.

Now that you are no longer married, do you intend taking a second marriage?
For now my sister, my marriage is not on mind because I now see it as a secondary issue after my first marriage did work out as I thought. I just want to move on with my life but I believe something good will surely happen to me.

How do you feel when you read negative stories about yourself in Newspapers and soft sell journals?
There is no time I come across negative stories about myself that I feel so well because it’s very bad when you read them, most especially when there is no bit of truth in the story. Also, I just believe that it is one of the pride one has to pay been a celebrity, but I will advice that journalist get adequate information before going to press. I can say tentatively that most of the wrong stories published about me are not true.

There is this craze for caucus in the Yoruba movie industry; do you also belong to any of it?
On the issue of caucus, it all applies to all the industries because in Nollywood and Music Industry, we find our stars belonging to one group or the other; but for me I have always been a neutral person that is why I even find it difficult to point out a particular find that I have rather I am closer to those that wants my progress. I don’t believe in disrespecting those older than me because I accord respect to both the old and young ones in the industry.

What part of your body do you cherish the most?
I would say my face. Now I’m looking so ordinary but, when I put on my eyeliner, I look totally different. My eye lashes make me look different all the time, once I line them, they talk on their on.

What is your most valued fashion item that you cannot do without?
Most definitely, my hand bag because I have some crazy bags that are like human beings, I go crazy for them because I am that kind of person that has bags attached to different clothes.

Let’s have a run-down of your several designers?
For bags, I have already loved Mui-Mui, for shoes I love David Wedge and Gucci, for my inner wears, I love Victoria secret, for shirts, I love any design that carries the brand name TM, then for perfume, I love Diesel, Elizabeth Arden, Angel Demon and Provocateur because they all have a nice odour.

What is the attraction for the tattoo on your upper arm?
Maybe I am just a copy cat; my ex-husband has lots of tattoo all over his body. So when I had my baby in America, I told him I wanted a tattoo like his, he agreed. And that was it, it was painful though, I would say it was a painful sweet sensation. You know tattoos can be very sexy. It depends on the style. But I find it very sexy.

Music Review

Dagrin: The CEO

After teasing us with his scene stealing verses from E Fi Mi Le by YQ, 'Nla by Lala and his hood anthem Pon Pon Pon, the rapper known as Da Grin has finally dropped his much anticipated sophomore album- Chief Executive Omoita. Shaving off the three bonus tracks, C.E.O is a dope and neatly constructed 10 tracker albums. On the album, Dagrin effectively weaves rags to riches, underdog to top dog stories that can only be well written by someone who has lived such a life. If you are searching through the street side bookshops located under the Ikeja Bridge for Da Grin's biography, forget about it. Your best bet is to listen to these three tracks of the album; Ghetto Dreams ft Sossick, Everyday ft Ejay, and Thank God ft Omowunmi. These three tracks apart from being metaphorical and highly lyrical are autobiographical in every sense of the word. The MC unabashedly recalls his days of poverty, hardships, crime and struggles over emotionally laden tracks. However, don't just think that because Dagrin is now basking in limelight, he has forgotten where he comes from. The dude still has a hood state of mind-jus' take a listen to his hood banger Pon Pon Pon, and Igboro ft Isolate (the dude who sounds a lot like 9ice or according to rumours, the guy who 9ice stole from) and you will discover that 'Grin could be that guy lurking in that dark corner in your neighbourhood where your mamma has always warned you never to go. For those who are street-wary, DaGrin caters for them. This lyrical MC also happens to be current with a lot of trends happening in Hip-Hop. Swag (File) ft. Cartiair (of the owo ati swaga fame) sees the two rappers well, outswagging their haters on a Krump beat, while Make Doe ft Dark Poet and Sossick is his snap record. Even though the beat is quite generic, Grin's flows make the track listenable. The album isn't strictly a Red Eye-Red Eye or an Oju Uche affair as DaGrin comes off lighthearted on the Bollywood inspired cut Hola Hola ft. Tfrizzle. Now what's a rap album with the standard raunchy track? Kondo happens to be C.E.O's raw and uncut sex track that is sure to be banned by NBC when a radio deejay plays it on air. Its vulgar nature however, is sure to make it a night club staple, dormitory favourite and the soundtrack of choice for many sexual encounters that will undoubtedly lead to many unwanted pregnancies. While listening to this CD, the skip button is virtually non-existent until you hit track number 8- What They Want. With its beat being an interpolation of 50cent's Wankster, the track should have not made the final album cut. It sounds more like an okay mixtape joint, but when placed in a good album it fails to move the album forward. Despite this bump on the road, C.E.O is a smooth and easy ride. After listening to the album, your gut tells you that you have just listened to something game changing. True, ‘Grin has a nasty Yoruba flow but that is not the ish here. Lord of Ajasa and AY started it way back. The ish is that none of them have ever rapped in Yoruba the way DaGrin does. His metaphors, similes are just absolutely bunkers. By the time you listen to Dagrin, you quickly make up your mind that he is not a good Yoruba rapper, but a very good rapper period. He can hang with the best of them. His use of Yoruba is so alluring that those who don't speak the language are at least seduced by his flow and rhyme cadence. Kudos should be given to Dagrin for keeping up to his promise of featuring unknown acts. Except for Omowunmi, the rest of the supporting cast is relatively new to the game. He could have just gone the Terry G or Timaya route like most rappers are quick to do today, but he chose to stick with the new guns who undoubtedly give this opus a fresh vibe. Even though the tracks on the album are conceptually different, there is a cohesive thread that runs through them. By working mostly with Sossick (Gino's in-house producer), the album doesn't run all over the place. It is well constructed and well delivered. I don't truly believe that you can call an album classic, until after 6-8 months of release. Some of the greatest rap albums of all time such as Reasonable Doubt didn't make the once coveted 5 mic rating, but today even The Source will tell you Jigga's debut LP is timeless. Years from now I would love to see whether C.E.O stood the test of time. But as of Monday, September 7, 2009, C.E.O is an accommodating, brilliant and enchanting album by a gifted lyricist who does not see his rapping in his mother tongue as a restriction but as a game opener. Dagrin’s usage of the Yoruba language to lucidly illustrate his pain, sorrow and eventual victory in the game is as revolutionary as Rev. Samuel Ajayi Crowther translating the Good Book into Yoruba. So far this is best the best damn rap album this year has got to offer.