Showbiz

Remembering Legendary Nigerian Drummer Tony Allen

Published

5 years ago

02/05/2020

By Kester Kenn Klomegah

Exactly in August 2009, legendary Nigerian drummer, Tony Allen, who created the Afrobeat along with his old bandmate, Fela Kuti, and I had our first historical meeting in Paris, France.

I had flown in from Shanghai, China, to meet with him for an informal encounter. Despite our heavy working schedules and limited time, the meeting lasted for about two hours.

During the discussions, I asked him several questions about his professional musical career and life. In fact, he was extremely passionate and enthusiastic talking with me, and to remember him here are a few excerpts:

When did you begin your musical career and who are your favourite musicians?

My career started at the age of 20. In fact, I was hired by Sir Victor Olaiya to play claves with his highlife band, “the Cool Cats” and was able to fill the drum-set chair when the former Cool Cats drummer left the band. I also played with Agu Norris and the Heatwaves, the Nigerian Messengers and the Melody Makers.

In 1964, I joined Fela’s ‘Koola Lobitos’ and stayed with Fela for 15 years. When I was learning to play, I’d check out LPs and magazine tutorials by Gene Krupa, Art Blakey and Max Roach, Guy Warren was also an influence. Of course, I was also a fan of Elvin Jones, Tony Williams and Bernard Purdie.

I was asked to name my dream band to play with, and I chose: Oumou Sangare and Salif Keita on vocals, Bootsy Collins on bass, George Benson on guitar, Wayne Shorter on sax, Joe Zawinul on keys, Don Cherry on trumpet, and with a line-up like that, I’d have to be the drummer!

What was the motivation behind your chosen profession?

My parents were…not keen. Back then, musicians were more or less thought of as beggars, or worse. But I just put it in front of them. I was an electrical technician, but I wanted to make a change. My mother was never happy about it, but my father, who was an amateur musician, eventually agreed.

How is this profession influencing or shaping your own social life?

It has had a profound effect. Our albums with Afrika 70 either provoked or described a series of increasingly brutal attacks by the Nigerian army and police. Fela and his immediate family bore the brunt of this long and shameful catalogue of assaults, trumped up charges and jailings, and I myself was jailed on one occasion. With Fela, it was like being at university, and you don’t run away from education. We learnt so much by not being cowards.

When I left Fela’s band, that had a big effect on my life. Lagos was too small for me and Fela. It was a small place, and I wanted room to take off without causing competition, I eventually chose Paris partly because the British immigration people were giving me difficulties, but also because African music was more happening then in Paris than in London, and my record company at the time was in France.

It was the only place I felt I could exercise my knowledge. The only place to make a living. Being a musician, the line between work and social life is, often blurred doing what I do for a living is what I do for enjoyment.

There seems to be some truthfulness in your career. Which songs spiritually appeal most to you personally when on stage?

Absolutely, as a musician and an artist, you have to be true to yourself. Different songs appeal to me more at different times and under different circumstances, it can depend on who you’re playing with, where you’re playing and how the audience respond to what you’re playing. Playing music is very spiritual but I won’t say that one thing I do is more spiritual than another as I try to invest all in everything that I do.

Of what importance are the messages you convey through your songs to our society, in your interpretation?

Afrobeat has always been about the struggle, then and now. Fela was right about everything, especially the messages in all his songs. Everything he sang about is still happening. Nigeria’s not getting any better. It’s all misadministration and corruption, survival of the fittest.

Lagos is a complete mother ****** of a place. These messages we send to the government, they never listen to them. The people wait for an effect, but there’s no effect. These guys do nothing. Afrobeat is rebellious music. We have to keep shouting.

Do you mind talking about your experiences (both positive and negative) in previous European tours?

Laughs! I don’t mind at all but this is a big question that I’m not sure how to answer. The fact is that the good experiences overwhelmingly outweigh the bad, which is why I’m still out on tour at nearly 70 years old. As long as people want to come and see me play, I’ll play.

How do you usually visualize your audience during musical performances?

I am very pleased to have had the chance to play at many festivals abroad. The foreign people know all about social and political upheaval, so even though our cultures and heritage are completely different, they feel the power of Afrobeat and confirm my belief that music is the great healer in the world. It was a long musical trip, there is no way back but well worth it. You just don’t have to return, I have to move forward!

Many people think going into musical world is just to make quick money. What is your reaction to this?

Ha! Most musicians are struggling musicians only a small minority make serious money, musicians all around the world play for the love of it, to express themselves creatively and for the interaction with the audience. A lucky few might make millions but you can’t judge everyone else on that basis, lawyers, accountants, bankers, those guys make the serious money. Also, those motivated by money don’t make as good music, if your inspiration isn’t true, then it shines through in music.

Would you have opted out of stage if you were offered an alternative job?

Not all, as I said earlier, I had job which I left in order to be a musician, that was almost 50 years ago and I am still in it. I think I made the right decision.

If you could have lunch with anyone, real or fictional, alive or dead, who would it be and what is the first thing you would ask him or her?

It’s impossible to pick one single person, there are loved ones that would be great to see one more time, but musically, the most obvious person would be Fela Kuti, and I’d ask him if he’s happy with what’s happened to the music that we created together.

What are your goals for the coming years?

I want to keep on doing what I do, improving and doing new things. I’m very happy with my band and our new album, we can do great things together. I’m very fortunate that I get the opportunities to work with all manner of artists doing different and interesting projects, long may it continue.

Music is my mission. I never get satisfied and I’m still learning from others. The musical world is very spiritual, and I don’t think there’s an end to it. The best legacy is your professional work and leaving an indelible mark on the minds of people.

Additional information

Agence France Press (AFP) wrote that Allen was the drummer and musical director of Fela Kuti’s band Africa ‘70 in the 1960s and 1970s.

During that time, the pair created afrobeat, combining West African musical styles such as highlife and Fuji music with American imports jazz and funk. Afrobeat went on to become one of the totemic genres of 20th century African music.

Over Allen’s thrilling beat, Fela laid out his revolutionary and pan-African message, which led him to become one of the abiding icons of the struggle for freedom across the continent.

Allen and Fela recorded around 40 albums together in Africa ‘70, before parting ways after a mythic 26-year collaboration. Such was the hole that Allen left in his band, Fela needed four drummers to replace him.

Allen taught himself to play drums from the age of 18, drawing inspiration from American jazz greats Dizzy Gillespie and Charlie Parker as well as contemporary African music. He remained hugely influential and beloved by generations of musicians.

British musician and producer Brian Eno has called Allen “perhaps the greatest drummer who ever lived.” Allen was the drummer in the supergroup The Good, the Bad & the Queen, also featuring Blur singer Damon Albarn and The Clash bassist Paul Simonon, which released its second album in 2018.

Tony Allen died suddenly at the age of 79 in the Paris suburb Courbevoie, France.

Showbiz

Voices of the Future: How MultiChoice Talent Factory Filmmakers are Redefining African Storytelling

Published

22 hours ago

04/04/2025

Business Post Contributor

Africa’s creative landscape is transforming, driven by the dynamic voices of Generation Z. This tech-savvy, socially conscious, and unapologetically authentic generation are not just consuming content; they are shaping it. Through film, television, and digital media, they are challenging norms, driving culture, and defining the future of African entertainment.

With one of the youngest populations in the world, Gen Z’s influence on Africa’s cultural landscape is undeniable. From activism movements like #EndSARS in Nigeria to the Finance Bill protests in Kenya, young Africans are making their voices heard across various sectors, including entertainment. Their stories are not only relevant; they are becoming the cornerstone of the modern African narrative.

Gen Z’s evolving media consumption habits reflect their desire for authenticity and representation. According to the PwC Africa Entertainment and Media Outlook 2024–2028, Nigeria’s over-the-top (OTT) streaming is set to grow at a 10.5% compound annual growth rate, while linear TV is expected to increase by 8.1%. Similarly, in Kenya, OTT streaming is projected to grow by 10.9%, with linear TV seeing a smaller 3.2% rise. These statistics highlight the shift towards digital platforms, where Gen Z seeks content that aligns with their realities.

An Ernst & Young (EY) survey reinforces this trend, revealing that authenticity is the most valued trait in content among Gen Z. They crave stories that mirror their experiences, struggles, and aspirations, unfiltered and true to life. This is where young African filmmakers are stepping in, bringing fresh perspectives and narratives that resonate deeply with their audience.

Recognising the importance of nurturing this new wave of filmmakers, MultiChoice Africa’s leading entertainment powerhouse has invested in the MultiChoice Talent Factory (MTF) academies in Lagos, Lusaka, and Nairobi. These academies equip aspiring creatives with the skills to excel in storytelling, production, and cinematography. Each year, 60 filmmakers graduate from the MTF programme, stepping into the industry with innovative ideas and techniques. Many of these filmmakers go on to produce critically acclaimed films that captivate audiences across the continent.

The significance of the MTF initiative is reflected in the continued success of its alumni. Films such as Gone (West Africa), Everything Light Touches (West Africa), The Immersive Alarm (East Africa), Deadbeat (East Africa), Mwananga (Southern Africa), and Rivals in Time (Southern Africa) were nominated for the AMVCAs, showcasing the impact of MTF-trained filmmakers. Past standout productions like Irora Iya, Obi Di Omimi, and Inu Jin have also earned critical acclaim, further cementing the diversity and depth of storytelling coming from MTF alumni.

These achievements highlight a fundamental shift in the media landscape: Viewers are now creators. By empowering young filmmakers to tell their stories, MultiChoice has played a pivotal role in this transformation. The work of MTF alumni proves that authentic African stories, told by Africans, have the power to lead the way in global entertainment.

Showbiz

Watch, Laugh, Bond: The Best Shows for Every Occasion

Published

2 days ago

03/04/2025

Business Post Contributor

TV isn’t just about what you watch, it’s about who you watch it with. We can’t deny that there is something special about watching TV with people you care about. The random side comments, someone laughing before the funny part even lands, or that one person who starts asking questions in the middle of the show.

It is the little things that make watch parties fun and GOtv makes it even easier to enjoy these moments. Whether you’re cuddled up with your partner, hanging with your siblings, or catching up on drama with your long-distance best-friend, here is how to make every viewing moment feel perfect.

A Night in with your partner

You and your partner might have had a long day and you both want something chill. Well, that is the perfect time to grab a blanket, order your favourite food or warm something quick, and press play on ‘Forgiveness’ on Africa Magic Showcase (Ch. 8). It’s one of those emotional stories that spark real conversations like the kind where someone suddenly asks, “Would you still love me if I did that?” You’ll laugh, get a little teary, and pause at least once to argue about who was wrong. It’s not just a movie night, but also a perfect time to bond with your partner.

Family Movie Night

There is nothing more wholesome than having the whole family gather in front of the screen. A perfect choice for family movie night is Anna Ferrah’s Story on Saturday at 8:00 PM on Africa Magic Family (Ch. 7). It’s packed with emotions and lessons thateveryone in the family can learn from. It is also the kind of entertainment that will make everyone more intentional about the bond in the family, including your dad who swears he doesn’t like TV.

Movie Night With The Crew

Friends are over, the snacks are ready, and all that’s missing is the perfect show to bring all the vibes. My Flatmates on Africa Magic Family (Ch. 7) is exactly what you need– pure comedy, full of drama in the best way. It would almost feel like you’re watching your own friend group on screen and this is a great way to unwind with your crew and initiate the playful banter.

Virtual watch party for long distance best friends

You and your best friend might be living in different cities, but that doesn’t mean you can’t still binge-watch something together. Plan a virtual watch party and both tune into The Reunion of the Real Housewives of Lagos on Africa Magic Showcase (Ch. 8) on April 13. You already know how it goes, one of you will text first saying “Omg, did you see that part?”. The best part about watching something as juicy as a reunion for RHOL is that you’re not just watching, but you and your best friend would probably have a topic to talk about throughout the week and might even turn the virtual watch party to a tradition for reality shows.

Solo Movie Night

Sometimes, the best nights are the ones you spend alone, just you, your favorite snack, and a good movie. If you are feeling like kicking back and letting the world pause for a bit, it’s the perfect time to watch Ill Fated on Africa Magic Showcase (Ch.8). Elfreda, a freshman at the University of Lagos, befriends her troubled neighbour Femi, unaware he’s a victim of illegal research. Their relationship grows, despite danger. It is packed with intrigue and thrill. The unfolding story will keep you glued to the screen, with no need to talk to anyone. It is just you, yourself, and a deeply emotive story with no interruptions.

So, no matter the occasion, GOtv has the perfect shows to keep you entertained. In order not to miss out, quickly renew your subscription or upgrade your package today via the MyGOtv app or dial *288#. And if you are out and about, you can still catch your favoriteshows anytime, anywhere with the GOtv Stream App

Showbiz

Omowunmi Esther Oyeleke Offers Fresh Rendition of Nigerian Old-School Gospel Songs

Published

6 days ago

30/03/2025

Business Post Contributor

By Michael Kolawole

Nigerian old-school gospel songs never grow old. They remain fresh and uplifting, especially when reimagined through new renditions.

Omowunmi Esther Oyeleke breathes new life into these timeless melodies, offering a praise medley that stays true to their lyrics while infusing them with renewed joy and reverence.

Her Old-School Praise Medley takes listeners on a soul-stirring journey through some of Nigeria’s most beloved gospel songs. With her silvery voice and light, cheerful instrumentals, Omowunmi celebrates the greatness of God, leading listeners in both praise and worship.

She begins with a song deeply ingrained into the routine of morning devotions in many Nigerian Christian homes: “This Is The Day.” The lyrics, derived from Psalms 118:24, set the tone for gratitude and celebration. “This is the day / this is the day that the Lord has made / that the Lord has made,” she sings, adding, “I will rejoice / I will rejoice, and be glad in him.” Her backup singers gently re-echo the lyrics, creating a layered effect that emphasizes collective worship.

From there, she seamlessly transitions into “I Love the Man of Galilee,” another staple in Nigerian gospel music. With effortless grace, she cruises through songs like “Praise The Lord, O Sing, O Sing” and “I Will Enter His Gates With Thanksgiving In My Heart,” her voice soaring with reverence as she revels in God’s mercy and greatness.

At the 10:51 mark, the atmosphere shifts as she moves into a worship session. The instrumentals soften, becoming more soulful in deference to God. “We worship you, Jesus,” she begins, her voice rich with emotion. She gives all the glory to God, urging listeners to do the same. “Come on, open your mouth and bless the name of the Lord,” she exhorts, inviting participation in the sacred moment.

Despite its unedited nature, the production effectively delivers heartfelt messages of praise and worship. Rather than feeling raw or unfinished, the organic sound enhances the authenticity of the experience, making listeners feel as though they are in the midst of a live church service.

Omowunmi’s deep connection to gospel music is rooted in her upbringing. Born into a Christian home filled with the sounds of gospel hits from radios and stacked CDs, she spent hours poring over songbooks, copying lyrics by hand. Her passion for music was evident from a young age, leading her from the confines of her home to school assemblies, classrooms, and playgrounds, where she shared her voice with anyone who would listen.

That passion eventually found a home in the RCCG choir, Victory Parish, Surulere, where she was a tiny girl among adult singers. Initially met with scepticism, she quickly won hearts with her powerful voice. Today, she leads worship at the Redeemed Christian Church of God, Edinburgh Tabernacle, UK, touching and transforming lives through her music ministry.

Even as her mission has taken her far from home, it has always brought her back to her roots—the place where her love for gospel music began.

Through every season, Omowunmi reminds us that each day is a gift from God—one to be embraced with joy and worship.

Michael Kolawole is a screenwriter, playwright, and cultural journalist/critic