Showbiz
Remembering Legendary Nigerian Drummer Tony Allen
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.
When Pragya and Abhi’s complicated love story kept viewers glued to their screens in Kumkum Bhagya, many Nigerian homes were already familiar with the emotional rollercoaster that ZeeWorld dramas bring. From hidden identities and unexpected betrayals to family members standing in the way of love, the show became one of the many dramas that turned ordinary evenings into moments of suspense and heated conversations.
The same happened with This is Fate, where viewers followed the journey of characters like Prachi and Ranbir through love, misunderstandings and family conflicts. Every revelation, heartbreak and reunion became something audiences discussed long after the episode ended.
This is the magic ZeeWorld has created over the years. The channel has mastered a style of storytelling built around emotions Nigerians connect with.
For many Nigerian women, ZeeWorld is not just another entertainment channel. It has become part of everyday routines, family conversations and shared viewing experiences.
Here is why it continues to hold their attention.
Love Stories That Keep Viewers Invested
ZeeWorld understands the power of romance, especially when love is tested. Love is never simple in ZeeWorld’s dramas. Characters have to deal with family expectations, misunderstandings, betrayal and difficult choices before finding happiness. This emotional journey keeps viewers invested because they are not just watching a love story unfold; they are hoping for the characters to overcome every obstacle.
Family Drama That Feels Familiar
Beyond romance, ZeeWorld’s biggest strength is its focus on family. Many of its storylines explore themes Nigerians understand deeply, parental expectations, family loyalty, marriage pressures and the desire to protect loved ones. While the settings may be different, the emotions feel familiar. The mother trying to protect her child, the family fighting to preserve its name or the woman trying to find acceptance are experiences that resonate with many viewers.
Characters Who Become Part of the Conversation
A major reason ZeeWorld has built such a loyal audience is the connection viewers have with its characters. Fans celebrate their favourite characters, criticise their decisions and debate their choices like they are discussing people they know. A storyline from a ZeeWorld drama can easily become the main topic of conversation among friends, sisters or family members.
The Joy of Watching Together
In a world where streaming has made entertainment more individual, ZeeWorld still represents the traditional television experience where people gather around the same screen and share reactions together. It is the channel playing while dinner is being prepared, the show discussed during visits and the reason viewers make sure they do not miss an important episode.
Television trends may change and new streaming platforms may emerge, but stories built on love, family and human emotion rarely go out of style. As long as ZeeWorld continues to tell those stories, it will keep giving Nigerian women a reason to tune in, laugh, cry and ask the same question at the end of every episode.
Don’t miss your favorite Zee World shows on GOtv Ch 30.
To upgrade, subscribe or reconnect, download the MyGOtv App or dial *288#. For catch-up and on-the-go viewing, download the GOtv Stream App and enjoy your favourite shows anytime, anywhere.
There wasn’t a dry eye in the MasterChef Nigeria kitchen as fan favourite David bowed out in one of the most emotional episodes of the season, leaving Fads and Favy as the final two contestants standing in the race for the life-changing ₦73 million grand prize.
With the grand finale within touching distance, the Top 3 walked into the kitchen to find an elegantly laid dining table and an exquisite signature dish created by Chef Eros and Chef Stone. After savouring the meal alongside the judges, they received what would become the defining challenge of their MasterChef journey: recreating the dish with absolute precision to earn a coveted place in the finale.
There were no second chances. With Favy’s immunity pin already behind her, all three contestants stood on equal footing.
“Precision is your friend. Panic is your enemy,” Chef Stone cautioned as the clock began to tick.
For Fads, the challenge became her finest hour. Calm, focused and technically brilliant, she delivered a plate that impressed the judges with its flawless execution, balanced flavours and refined presentation. Her performance earned her Dish of the Day and secured her place as the first finalist.
Favy also rose to the occasion, presenting a dish that won praise for its taste and composure under pressure.
David, however, struggled to bring his vision to life. Despite pouring everything he had into the cook—admitting he had cooked with his “last breath”—his risotto lacked the required texture, while his duck fell short on flavour. In a competition where every detail mattered, those small imperfections had enormous consequences.
Standing beside Favy in the bottom two, David waited anxiously as the judges delivered their final decision.
His MasterChef journey had come to an end.
What followed was one of the season’s most unforgettable moments. Overcome with emotion, David broke down as he reflected on how far he had come. Across the room, Favy was so consumed by the moment that she barely realised she had secured her place in the finale.
Yet even in defeat, David’s story found a remarkable new beginning.
Moved by his passion, determination and undeniable talent, the judges described him as “a diamond in the rough” and rewarded his potential with an extraordinary opportunity: a fully sponsored six-month professional training programme at Chef Stone’s Red Dish culinary school, followed by a paid six-month internship at Chef Eros’s Ile Eros restaurant.
It was a powerful reminder that while competitions may end, dreams do not.
Now, the table is set for an unforgettable finale.
Next week, Fads and Favy will go head-to-head in one last culinary showdown for the MasterChef Nigeria title and the life-changing ₦73 million prize.
Two finalists. One kitchen. One final opportunity to create the dish that changes everything.
MasterChef Nigeria airs every Sunday at 7:00 p.m. on Africa Magic Showcase and Africa Magic Family, with repeat broadcasts on Wednesdays at 6:00 p.m. on Africa Magic Showcase and Thursdays at 12:00 p.m. on Africa Magic Family.
What happens when one tragic event forces a family to confront secrets they’ve spent years trying to bury? In The Journal, the mysterious death of a family member brings five siblings back together, but instead of finding answers, they uncover hidden truths that threaten to change everything they thought they knew about each other. To catch The Journal, tune in on Africa Magic Showcase Ch 8 on Saturday at 7:15 PM.
Stories like this are what make Nollywood impossible to ignore. Whether you’re in the mood for emotional family drama, romance, suspense or stories packed with unexpected twists, GOtv has a lineup of Nollywood movies to keep you entertained all weekend.
If you’re looking for what to watch, here are some Nollywood movies to add to your watchlist this weekend.
Iya
Some battles don’t happen outside the home. In Iya, a mother is determined to drive a wedge between her son and his wife. She goes to great lengths to frustrate her daughter-in-law, hoping to push her back into the life she once lived, making money from her beauty. It’s an emotional story about family interference, manipulation and the lengths some people will go to get what they want.
Showing on Africa Magic Yoruba Ch 2 on Saturday at 8:25 PM.
One Man
Nkechi and Amara share a close bond as sisters, but poverty tears them apart while they are still young. Years later, fate brings them back together, but their reunion doesn’t go as expected. Instead, a shocking decision threatens to change both of their lives forever. It’s a touching story about family, sacrifice and the unexpected turns life can take.
Showing on Africa Magic Epic Ch 6 on Saturday at 11:05 AM.
Unlucky
Kenny and Nora’s relationship is already far from perfect, but things become even more complicated when Mabel, a brilliant tech enthusiast, moves in next door. What starts as a simple neighbourly connection soon turns into a complicated love triangle that leaves everyone questioning where their hearts truly belong.
Showing on Africa Magic Showcase Ch 8 on Sunday at 10:14 PM.
My Madam And I
Chief Donald and Jifeofor have spent years as rivals, but life has a funny way of changing the script. While the two men continue their feud, their children unexpectedly fall in love. Now they must decide whether love is strong enough to overcome pride, family rivalry and years of bad blood.
Showing on Africa Magic Family Ch 7 on Sunday at 11:05 PM.
Whether you’re in the mood for family drama, romance, suspense or stories packed with emotional twists, GOtv’s Nollywood lineup has you covered this weekend. So settle in and let these stories take over your screen.
To upgrade, subscribe or reconnect, download the MyGOtv App or dial *288#. For catch-up and on-the-go viewing, download the GOtv Stream App and enjoy your favourite shows anytime, anywhere.
