By Eric Elezuo

It was a moment of awe, pleasant surprises and appreciation at the Eko Hotels when leading telecommunications company, Globacom celebrated 15 years of bankrolling the the CNN African Voices Changemakers with the entertainment big wigs in attendance.

Held to showcase the magnificent efforts of the telecom giants in the projection of African talents to the world, the top-notch anniversary witnessed an array of performances by leading and budding artists, classical interviews and speeches from well meaning individuals from Globacom and CNN.

Among the major highlights of the event was the high profile interview with music icon, Yemi Alade, who followed the footsteps of the likes of Rema and Sarkodie, projecting their music and career trajectory. Alade is a Grammy-nominated artist, who has shown class and resilience in her career. The interview was conducted by Larry Modowo, who was the host on the night, and was followed by her performance of her hit song ‘Tomorrow’. The show, which was recorded in front of a live audience, will be aired on November 30 at a premier event on CNN International.

Among A-list dignitaries at the event were the Executive Vice Chairman, Globacom, Mrs. Bella Disu, who represented the Chairman, Dr. Mike Adenuga Jr. Others were the Executive Vice President, CNN International Commercial (CNNIC), Mr. Phil Nelson; Managing Director, OJ&T, Country Representatives of CNN, Mrs. Omolola Akpata-Owolabi, in addition to other artistes and distinguished guests.

There were also other prominent personalities from across Nigeria and othwr lands in attendance, including but not limited to screen icon, Joke Silva, Samuel Animashaun Perry, aka  Broda Shaggi former African Voices guests, cultural icons, entrepreneurs, business leaders and influencers. Attendees enjoyed an evening of conversation, entertainment, and a behind-the-scenes look at the filming process.

African Voices Changemakers is one of CNN’s longest-running and most successful series, and according to CNN correspondent, ‘tells the stories of the continent’s thought-leaders, creatives, athletes, and entertainers who are at the forefront of change across Africa. The show also profiles Africa’s sporting stars in special African Voices Playmakers episodes and segments that additionally air in CNN’s flagship sport show World Sport.

“Alongside this on-air content, African Voices Changemakers is available across CNN’s digital and social platforms, with social-first My Drive videos and a dedicated playlist on Apple Music. Globacom is the exclusive sponsor of African Voices Changemakers across all platforms.”

Mrs Bella, who made a remark on behalf of Globacom, through the company’s Chief Marketing Officer, Ashok Israni, informed that Glo in collaboration with CNN has used the African Voices Changemakers to amplify voices that might otherwise have remained unheard, bringing to light the remarkable achievements of African entrepreneurs, artists, leaders, sportsmen and sportswomen, all of whom are changemakers.

He said “This sponsorship is more than just brand alignment; it has been a profound expression of our shared commitment to the transformative power of storytelling. And in partnering with CNN, we have helped ensure that Africa’s voices; its dreams, its challenges, and its triumphs, are broadcast to the world.”

The CNNIC Executive Vice President, Phil Nelson, in his speech noted, that “15 years of programming is a huge landmark and I’m pleased to celebrate it in Lagos with our longstanding commercial partners at Globacom, I thank them for our ongoing collaboration. This anniversary event for African Voices reaffirms CNN’s commitment to the series and to showcasing the richness, diversity, and dynamism of Africa on the global stage.”

He further eulogised the steadfastness Dr. Adenuga and the Glo brand in uplifting talents and creating a platform for the Voices of Africans to be heard via a world renowned podium.

African Voices Changemakers is a 30-minute magazine programme that highlights African stars in the film and music industry. 

The Programme shows on DSTV Channel 401 every Saturday at 8.30 a.m. and the show is repeated the same day at noon. Other repeats follow on Sunday at 4.30 a.m. and 7.00 p.m., on Monday  at 4.00 a.m., and on Saturday next week at  8.30 a.m. and 12 noon. It will also air again on Sunday at 4.30 a.m. and  7.00 p.m. and on Monday  at 4.00 a.m.

Some guests who have appeared on the Glo-sponsored African Voices Changemakers program include:

Kaffy: The Nigerian dance queen and choreographer who led her group to break the Guinness World Record for “Longest Dance Party” in 2006. She also discussed how she has used her talents to empower young people and give back to her country.

Andrea Iyamah: The Nigerian-Canadian fashion designer and founder of the fashion label Andrea Iyamah. Her brand has been worn by celebrities like Michelle Obama, Kate Hudson, and Genevieve Nnaji.

Ruth Erikan James: The founder of the fashion brand Veekee James, which also expanded to include Veekee James Man for men’s wear and Shoprikan for women.

P-Square: The Nigerian singing duo of Peter and Paul Okoye who discussed their career, life, and reuniting after a breakup.

Senbanjo: A former women and children’s rights attorney who campaigned for the education of girls and the inclusion of women in national life.

Laolu: The designer of Beyoncé’s album, Lemonade.

Alabi: A music video director and winner of the 2019 Nigeria Entertainment Award for Music Video of the Year.

Odumegwu: A Nigerian professional linebacker for the Seattle Seahawks of the NFL.

Ndubuisi: A defensive lineman for the Washington Commanders of the NFL.

Momentum is gathering ahead of (Megastar Man of the Decade Award (MMOTDA) organised by MegaStar Magazine, a renowned publication brand that celebrates People, Business and Events.

Holding on 1st December, 2024 at the Prestigious Wells Carlton Hotel and Apartments in Abuja, Nigeria’s capital, an international broadcast journalist and tv host, CNN senior editor for Africa, Stephanie Busari has confirmed availability as the host. Also to feature as co-host is Dr Efex popularly known as Efex De Entertainer.

According to the organisers of the award, the decision to pick the experience host, compere, moderator and award winning journalist who has about 20 years in the industry is to give it the ambience of global outlook especially going by the categories of awardees that will be recognised that day.

The project director of Megastar Man of the Decade Award (MMOTDA) Adeniyi Ifetayo Moses while addressing journalists said Busari is a veteran broadcast journalist who has paid her dues in the industry has worked with some of the globally renowned media organizations, including the BBC.

According to him, proceeds from MMOTDA will be channeled to corporate social responsibility especially underserved communities in Abuja.

He said projects such as borehole, school renovation and furniture for schools within the FCT and other projects that will impact the society.

He said this is a way of improving lives of communities pursuant to the magazine’s corporate social responsibility.

Among those to be honoured include Senator representing Delta North, Sen. Ned Nwoko, founder Ovation magazine and veteran journalist, Dele Momodu, late Hosa Wells Okunbo, President Paul kegami, Nasarawa Governor Engr Sule Abdullahi, Dr Mike Adenuga, Alhaji Aliko Dangote, Teni Makanaki, Davido and several other prominent Nigerians who have made immense contributions in the last ten years.

The lead host, Busari wields deep knowledge of Hosting and Moderation of Events and Conferences and Expertly facilitates engaging and impactful events.

Skilled in moderating panels and discussions with high-profile participants, Busari also facilitates Media Training for Senior Executives, Provides comprehensive training to enhance media presence and performance.

Additionally, she stands out as an expert in Personal Branding and Visibility Strategy, Develops customized strategies to boost personal and professional brand visibility, Focuses on leveraging strengths and unique qualities to stand out in competitive markets.

Efex De Entertainer also has years of expertise in event anchoring, moderation and the corporate MC.

He was once chief protocol to former Governor of Edo state adams Oshiomhole, An Harvard Alumni.

There would also be Megastar Man of the decade Posthumous for late Captain Hosa Okunbo for pioneering Private Marine security in Nigeria. Friends of Nigeria award category, designed for foreign nationals whose businesses or services to the Nigerian nation have made life easier and few Diasporans who have been good ambassadors to the country.

There would be a panel discussion with the theme SOCIAL ENTERPRISE, A CATALYST FOR DEVELOPMENT IN NIGERIA where bright minds will proffer solutions on how to improve the lives of our people and develop the nation.

Quincy Jones, the multi-talented music titan whose vast legacy ranged from producing Michael Jackson’s historic “Thriller” album to writing prize-winning film and television scores and collaborating with Frank Sinatra, Ray Charles and hundreds of other recording artists, has died at 91.

Jones’ publicist, Arnold Robinson, says he died Sunday night at his home in the Bel Air section of Los Angeles, surrounded by his family.

“Tonight, with full but broken hearts, we must share the news of our father and brother Quincy Jones’ passing,” the family said in a statement. “And although this is an incredible loss for our family, we celebrate the great life that he lived and know there will never be another like him.”

Jones rose from running with gangs on the South Side of Chicago to the very heights of show business, becoming one of the first Black executives to thrive in Hollywood and amassing an extraordinary musical catalog that includes some of the richest moments of American rhythm and song. For years, it was unlikely to find a music lover who did not own at least one record with his name on it, or a leader in the entertainment industry and beyond who did not have some connection to him.

Jones kept company with presidents and foreign leaders, movie stars and musicians, philanthropists and business leaders. He toured with Count Basie and Lionel Hampton, arranged records for Sinatra and Ella Fitzgerald, composed the soundtracks for “Roots” and “In the Heat of the Night,” organized President Bill Clinton’s first inaugural celebration and oversaw the all-star recording of “We Are the World,” the 1985 charity record for famine relief in Africa.

Lionel Richie, who co-wrote “We Are the World” and was among the featured singers, would call Jones “the master orchestrator.”

In a career which began when records were still played on vinyl at 78 rpm, top honors likely go to his productions with Jackson: “Off the Wall,” “Thriller” and “Bad” were albums near-universal in their style and appeal. Jones’ versatility and imagination helped set off the explosive talents of Jackson as he transformed from child star to the “King of Pop.” On such classic tracks as “Billie Jean” and “Don’t Stop ‘Til You Get Enough,” Jones and Jackson fashioned a global soundscape out of disco, funk, rock, pop, R&B and jazz and African chants. For “Thriller,” some of the most memorable touches originated with Jones, who recruited Eddie Van Halen for a guitar solo on the genre-fusing “Beat It” and brought in Vincent Price for a ghoulish voiceover on the title track.

“Thriller” sold more than 20 million copies in 1983 alone and has contended with the Eagles’ “Greatest Hits 1971-1975” among others as the best-selling album of all time.

“If an album doesn’t do well, everyone says ‘it was the producers fault’; so if it does well, it should be your ‘fault,’ too,” Jones said in an interview with the Library of Congress in 2016. “The tracks don’t just all of a sudden appear. The producer has to have the skill, experience and ability to guide the vision to completion.”

The list of his honors and awards fills 18 pages in his 2001 autobiography “Q”, including 27 Grammys at the time (now 28), an honorary Academy Award (now two) and an Emmy for “Roots.” He also received France’s Legion d’Honneur, the Rudolph Valentino Award from the Republic of Italy and a Kennedy Center tribute for his contributions to American culture. He was the subject of a 1990 documentary, “Listen Up: The Lives of Quincy Jones” and a 2018 film by daughter Rashida Jones. His memoir made him a best-selling author.

Born in Chicago in 1933, Jones would cite the hymns his mother sang around the house as the first music he could remember. But he looked back sadly on his childhood, once telling Oprah Winfrey that “There are two kinds of people: those who have nurturing parents or caretakers, and those who don’t. Nothing’s in between.” Jones’ mother suffered from emotional problems and was eventually institutionalized, a loss that made the world seem “senseless” for Quincy. He spent much of his time in Chicago on the streets, with gangs, stealing and fighting.

“They nailed my hand to a fence with a switchblade, man,” he told the AP in 2018, showing a scar from his childhood.

Music saved him. As a boy, he learned that a Chicago neighbor owned a piano and he soon played it constantly himself. His father moved to Washington state when Quincy was 10 and his world changed at a neighborhood recreation center. Jones and some friends had broken into the kitchen and helped themselves to lemon meringue pie when Jones noticed a small room nearby with a stage. On the stage was a piano.

“I went up there, paused, stared, and then tinkled on it for a moment,” he wrote in his autobiography. “That’s where I began to find peace. I was 11. I knew this was it for me. Forever.”

Source: APnews