Presenter Gemma Feare catches up with global superstar Sean Paul to find out about his new singles, entitled “The Other Side of Love”, “Entertainment feat. 2 Chainz, Juicy J” and the brand new single “Riot” which will be to his next album!

Factory78 also find out about his decision to launch a career in music aged 21, his journey since then and views on the reggae and dancehall industry as a whole.

This Kingston-born artist touches on the importance of bringing dancehall music to the world, becoming internationally acclaimed and his love for Afrobeats artists.

Grammy-award winning artist, Sean Paul, now highlights musical talent among the youth and speaks of the legacy he wishes to create!

Sean Paul and Gemma Feare

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Channel O VJs Denrele and Jokate are keeping the fire blazing on the Original African channel’s ultimate countdown, the recently launched Channel O’s Top 10 Most…

The show is all about who is at the top of the list in the world of entertainment across Africa. The countdowns range from leaders on social media and music, to top moguls and music directors, not forgetting top performers and many more. There’s even a viewers’ choice Top 10, where a viewer can compile their own list.  In Denrele’s words: “This show in two words is Entertainment Extravaganza!”

The previous episode was all about the Top 10 Most Sexy African Artists. This list looks at the artists who not only bring fashion swag to the screens or red carpet, but who also get pulses racing by the sheer sexiness. Names that made it onto this list include Nigeria’ Lynxxx at No. 3, Tiwa Savage at No. 2, and Channel O’s Top 10 most Sexy African Artist went to Congolese artist Fally Ipupa who is also famous for his sexy dance moves.

This Sunday join the dynamic duo together with guest presenter businessman Obi Asika, who is one of those at the forefront of driving urban entertainment across Nigeria and the rest of Africa. Together they will be looking at the most influential names in the African music industry when they count down the ‘bawses’ running this industry in Top 10 African Music Moguls.

Tune in this Sunday at 21:00 CAT and see who makes it to the top Channel O’s Top 10 Sexiest African Artists.

For more information log onto www.dstv.com

Channel O VJs Denrele and Jokate

The post ‘Entertainment Extravaganza’ on Channel O’s Top 10 Most appeared first on GhanaGist.com.

Tanzania’s own ‘Bilingual Beast’, Wakazi, will storm the stage during Sunday night’s Big Brother: The Chase eviction show, live on AfricaMagic Entertainment and DStv Channel 197 & 198 from 20:00 CAT. Famed for his fearsome rhymes in Swahili and English, Wakazi will keep the energy high as audiences across the continent wait to see which housemates will be evicted from The Chasethis week.

Wakazi has come a long way since he started rapping at high school talent shows. With his focus shifted elsewhere by his family, he never took music seriously – until he relocated to Chicago and his love for Hip Hop was rejuvenated. He’s subsequently released three mixtapes, performed at festivals in North America and opened for megastars like Ice Prince and 2Face Idibia – and his debut album is on the way.

His signature blend of English and Swahili rhymes won him the nickname ‘Bilingual Beast’ and his ability to tell a story and mesmerizing manipulation of words and metaphors mark him out as a true creative force.

You won’t want to miss Wakazi’s lyrical Hip Hop stylings this Sunday – and don’t forget to vote to keep your favourite housemate inThe Chase! The housemates in danger of eviction are Angelo, Fatima, Bimp, Cleo, Pokello, Hakeem, and Nando. Voting is open now and closes at 06:00 CAT on Sunday morning.

Meanwhile, in other Big Brother news, Tumi Morake host of Big Brother Hot Room will also be making a guest appearance on StarGist, Friday 5 July at 19:30 CAT on AfricaMagic Entertainment. The South African comedienne will be talking about her life and career as well as giving an insight into the work that goes into putting the weekly satirical show together.

Big Brother: The Chase is headline sponsored by Airtel and produced by Endemol South Africa.

Wakazi

Tumi Morake

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Don’t we all have celebrities we fantasize about all the time? I’m sure we all do but for now let’s keep ours to ourselves as we talk about Yvonne Nelsons.

The Ghanaian actress thinks the Titanic star is a “fantastic actor” after she watched the movie and instantly fell in love with him.

“I love Leonardo DiCaprio, I wanna kiss him,” she told Toolz on Ndani TV‘s “The Juice”. She revealed some deep personal truths, touching on her relationships, break-ups and being a séx symbol.

Watch the video interview:

Source: GhanaGist.Com

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The three judges Bessa Simons, Ofie Kodjoe and Zapp Mallet have been working very hard since the last week of June to cut down on the number of demos received from wannabe musicians to enable them select the ten people who will enter the second season of the MTN Hitmaker television reality show.

It took the judges four days of sitting at the Oak Plaza Hotel in Accra to listen to the over 2000 demos collected nationwide. At the end, a total of 227 contestants were shortlisted and invited to and audition as the MTN Hitmaker competition gets closer to the television screens.

The 31 female and 196 male entrants have since last Wednesday converged at the National Film Institute (NAFTI) at East Cantonments in Accra to perform their songs in real life and to convince the judges to select them.

The shortlisted entrants have been singing without any instruments for the judges to determine how good their voices are. The judges will use three days to listen and then reduce the number from 227 to 40 who will then be joined by the 10 regional winners chosen from the nationwide radio competitions to perform with instrumentation for the final selection.

The ten regional winners who will battle with the 40 for the final place are Ernest Ankomah (Greater Accra Region), Bosu Gilbert Delali aka Cano – Z (Volta Region), Stephen Onumah (Central Region), Koo Ntakra Akuffo (Eastern Region), Hussein Musah aka Two Pesewas (Western Region), Mayfred and Afriyie (Ashanti Region), Patrick Kwadwo Fosu (Brong Ahafo Region), Felicia A. Baseh (Northern Region), Soore Martin Mbabil (Upper East Region) and Sampson Bannar (Upper West Region).

By the close of business on Friday, July 5th, the judges would be round up their work and would announce who would be among the final 10 contestants (plus two wildcard) to go on television.

Zapp Mallet, Ofie Kodjoe and Bessa Simons

Sound engineer and judge Zapp Mallet noted that it wasn’t easy listening to all these songs but he and his colleagues on the panel were able to select the grain from the chaff and they will continue to work hard to bring out the best among the best for the television reality show to begin.

Ivan Quashigah, Chief Executive Officer of Farmhouse Production, the producers of the show, said they were impressed with the high number of demos submitted. “This is an indication of the importance attached to the competition.”

The MTN Hitmaker season two has a prize package of a recording and artiste management deal worth GH¢100, 000.00 for the winner and GH¢50, 000.00 for the first runner-up. The third and fourth-placed winners will also receive some handsome prizes.

MTN Hitmaker will also reward the sound engineer with the Best Beat on the show and weekly prizes for Best Performer, Best Appearance, Highest ‘Texters’ and more. Introduced last year, the show aims at identifying, grooming and supporting young aspiring artistes to record their own music and turning them into stars.

The first season was a huge success and everyone saw the wonderful, transformed talents on television for several weeks before the final showdown at the Accra International Conference Centre where Shadrach Adjei alias Naterial beat Miriam, Chiki and Atimbilla to claim the first prize.

Miriam placed second. Naterial and her have since recorded their debut albums titled Mamle and My Testimony respectively. The Hitmaker initiative is championed by MTN and supported by the MTN Ghana Foundation under the auspices of the Youth Empowerment Programme in partnership with the Musicians Union of Ghana (MUSIGA).

This year, the contest is looking for the artistes who can “Move The Nation”.

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On Tuesday 9 July, M-Net will change the way DStv viewers watch their favourite series! Adding to the most amazing international series available on M-Net, the current M-Net Series channel on DStv will transform into a trio of amplified series channels. These will be called M-Net Series Showcase (channel 113), M-Net Series Reality (channel 114) and M-Net Series Zone (channel 115). All three channels will be available to DStv Premium subscribers, whilst DStv Compact customers can follow their favourite series on M-Net Series Zone.

M-Net Series Showcase will be the playground of the series world’s latest big-name shows with all its flamboyant characters. The channel will feature fresh, superior quality content in all popular genres – from comedy and drama to fantasy, crime and suspense. These first-class shows include new seasons of Army Wives, Mad Men, Criminal Minds and Defiance, and all the latest showstoppers from the USA. It will also be the channel where fans of series can devour all their favourites in one sitting, with marathons of back-to-back weekend screenings. Most of the series will be seen on African TV for the first time, close to their US debuts.

Nico Meyer, CEO of MultiChoice Africa says:  “The upward trend in reality tv is an exciting global phenomenon and we are delighted that our subscribers will have a piece of this action. M-Net’s latest innovation is exciting – their triple offering for the series fanatic will surely go down as a real treat. The insatiable talk show fan will also be able to enjoy uninterrupted hours of the very best in their home television viewing experience.”

As the name suggests, M-Net Series Reality will cater to the fans of real-life series. Reality fare like Junior MasterChef, Life after Top Chef, The Real Housewives of Beverly Hills, America’s Got Talent and supermodel Naomi Campbell’s The Face will make their African television premieres here. Apart from these captivating reality shows, the very best in talk shows will also be scheduled on the channel. This means that viewers will be able to find two of the most popular genres on global television – reality and talk shows – all in one place.

M-Net Series Zone will be the home of all the firm series favourites. It will include content specifically catering to DStv Compact customers. The shows will also be packaged in such a way that back-to-back screenings, especially over weekends, will make it easy for everyone to catch up on all the series action they may have missed. The channel will boast special festivals and themes, and much more. To summarise, M-Net is the ultimate box set.

For more information log on to www.dstv.com

The post M-Net Triples its series offering On DStv appeared first on GhanaGist.com.

Ghana’s favourite Prime Time TV programme, Thank God It’s Friday with KSM last Friday bid farewell to the producer of the show for the last two years, Ama Misa, as she prepared to head for the USA to pursue an MBA at Stanford University.

In a typically lively TGIF show, KSM interviewed his daughter/producer asking her about her decision to leave the reputable PricewaterhoueCoopers(PWC) to join Sapphire,  her experiences at Sapphire, and her time as producer of the TGIF show.

In her two years as producer, Ama was very instrumental in rebranding the programme and making it even more relevant in Ghana’s entertainment landscape.

Answering KSM’s question on her decision to leave PWC, Ama explained she had left in search of new experiences and also because she felt she was not maximizing her potential, and that she has no regrets about the decision.

She was very excited about her experience and talked about how the media is a powerful tool to transform society. She mentioned that TGIF is a great platform which has over the years helped to empower many Ghanaian businesses and entrepreneurs and she was happy to be part of that process. The father and daughter interview was a joy to watch.

The new producer for TGIF, Chief Moomen, joined the interview and was full of praise for Ama  for her great work at Sapphire. Chief, who is himself a renowned poet and writer has already worked together with Ama on various  Sapphire projects before joining Sapphire full time.

The two together have infused the company with a new energy and new focus, which he intends to draw on to continue producing high standard programmes.

Chief mentioned that planning is seriously underway for the ten years anniversary of TGIF which will include shooting the show on location at all the ten regions in Ghana.

He presented a gift on behalf of the whole team to Ama and wished her well in her endeavours, whilst gearing himself for the task ahead.

The post VIDEO: KSM’s daughter Ama Misa resigns as TGIF Producer, Chief Moomen takes over appeared first on GhanaGist.com.

Mzbel has always damned critics over her lyrics, dress sense, among others but one little man has been able to turn her around and the sultry hiplife artiste has vowed to ditch her risque lyrics and revealing clothes for gospel and inspirational music.

The little man, her five-months-old son, Aaron who literally has the 16 Years singer wrapped around his finger, has compelled Mzbel real name Belinda Nana Akua Amoah to rebrand herself when she hits the stage again after she has weaned him.

Speaking to Showbiz last Friday, Mzbel who is in her early 30s said motherhood has changed her way of life. “Having Aaron has made me a better person. I feel more mature. Yes, I will be back on stage in about a year and a half but this time around, I would be doing gospel.

“ This is because, I do not see myself doing hiplife again neither do I see myself doing any of my old songs. I just cannot imagine myself standing on stage dressed like I used to do before and performing hiplife, I feel I am too matured for that” she said.

According to the Awooso Me hit maker, being a mother has really brought her closer to God. She has now become a faithful servant of God and spends time attending fellowships and prayer sessions.

“I do not dress like the way I use to in the past. I have become very careful of my choice of dresses. Motherhood has also changed the way I speak and the way I respond to issues. I have also become very selective of the events I attend. Formally, I used to attend every event but now I am very selective” she said.

Mzbel

An obviously elated Mzbel who is mother to  two adopted children just couldn’t stop talking about the new addition to her family. “It feels great being Aaron’s mother. It is a nice experience but it comes with a whole lot of work. I do not sleep well and I wake up in the middle of the night to breastfeed him. Sometimes, Aaron cries and I do not know why he is crying but I look at his face with smiles and I feel all the hard work is worth it”.

Mzbel used the opportunity to thank God for giving her such a wonderful son. “ Aaron is an amazing child. He is a good boy who hardly cries. I know some babies who cry a lot. I have realised that he only cries when he is wet or when he is too warm and feels uncomfortable”, she said.

Touching on how having her own biological child has affected her relationship with her adopted ones, Mzbel said “the fact that Aaron is in the picture now does not mean I will abandoned my adopted children —John and Yannel. They adore their little brother and even help out with taking care of him.

The bond between us has grown stronger and tighter” , she added.

Although she loved to talk about her baby, Mzbel is rather mum when it comes to Aaron’s father. “I have decided to keep my baby father’s name private. In fact I have decided to keep certain things private. I went public with certain aspects of my life sometime ago and it affected a lot of things around me so I intend to keep somethings private” she said.

In addition to motherhood, Mzbel is currently working on her shop, reality TV show and kids TV programme. She also hopes to own a production studio in the near future.

Mzbel, the last of seven girls, was born to Mr Albert A. Amoah, an engineer and the late Agnes Nyarko. She grew up in James Town.

She had her senior high education at Abuakwa State College. She later enrolled at the Ghana Institute of Languages to become a bilingual secretary.

Source: Graphic Showbiz

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It has been almost six months since popular MC, event director and  host of Pundit  on GH-One George Quaye, popularly known as Aboagye, tied the knot with his heart throb Pearl and since then the Taxi Driver  actor has not stopped talking about  how marriage has made him more responsible.

“I won’t say that I wasn’t responsible before I got married but marriage has made me more responsible. I have been very thoughtful, more considerate in my decisions because now I make decisions that affect two people. I don’t make any decision without consulting my wife because she has been the backbone of my success till date.

“I saw things differently when I was single but marriage has taught me a lesson of how one should plan his life and given me a different perspective about life in terms of how result-oriented I want to be.

“As a husband, I want to work hard to be successful so that my wife and kids can be proud of me. Now, I have a strong conviction not to fail in life but work hard to attain the best and with that, I can’t afford to be irresponsible by living a wayward life. Responsibility is the biggest lesson I have learnt in my few months of journeying on the path of marriage” he said.

Talking to Showbiz last Tuesday, George whose movie name Aboagye has stuck with him since his role in Taxi Driver,  described his wife as a “pearl” just as her name implies remarking “my wife has been that shinning pearl in my life and the best thing that ever happened to me.”.

Reminiscing the past, Aboagye said he met his wife in 2000 when they were both students of the University of Ghana and hall members at Akuafo hall.

“I had spotted her on a number of occasions when she came to pass in front of my room. She looked so calm and I was attracted to her by her gentleness and beauty. Through the assistance of her cousin who happened to be a roommate, I met her and we exchanged pleasantries. We became friends afterwards but we started dating after two years of friendship.

“She is the main rock behind my success. Her thought provoking advice and deep thinking has brought me this far. She was the brain behind my decision to work at Charter House and I must confess I have not for once regretted that decision” he stated.

Aboagye said that his wife who is a banker with Barclays was not worried by his status as a public figure because she had been with him when he was a “nobody” adding “Our love was not love at first sight. She is the kind of person who would not want to date not to talk of marry a public figure but I guess as time went on, we both understood each other. I mean grew into her and she also grew into me”.

In respect to how he perfectly depicted the role of Aboagye in Taxi Driver, George Nii Armah Quaye who many had perceived to be an Ashanti said that he had never lived or stayed in Kumasi.

George Quaye, a.k.a Aboagye

“I grew up in Accra and had not lived any part of my life in Kumasi. In fact, when I was given the role of Aboagye, I couldn’t even speak Twi properly because in my home, we spoke only Ga and Nzema and was surrounded my friends who spoke only Hausa.  I did a lot of observation to match up to the role and I guess that really helped me. I am a blessed actor”.

For being a good orator, Aboagye who is currently handling Media Communication issues at Charter House where he is also directly involved in productions, directing shows, script writing, and editing says it is a gift from God.

He is the ninth of 10 children and a product of Mfantsipim School and University of Ghana where he studied Theatre Arts for his first degree and later pursued his Masters in Communication Studies.

Even though he has starred in movies like 419 and Double Jam by Danfo BA and Harry Laud production respectively, for now, he is sure it will only take a good script with an interesting storyline accompanied with a good director to get him back on screen.

Source: Graphic Showbiz

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AIRTEL MONEY REWARDS DSTV SUBSCRIBERS

Congratulations go to Mr. Justice Ayam for winning 12 months free subscription in the Airtel Money promotion with Multichoice Ghana for June 2013. Mr. Ayam is 44 year old businessman and a resident of Sunyani.

The Airtel Money promotion with Multichoice Ghana is to reward DStv subscribers who pay their monthly subscription with Airtel Money between 17th June 2013 to 30th August 2013. All DStv subscribers who pay their monthly subscription with Airtel Money between this period will automatically be entered into a draw and will stand a chance to win 12 months free subscription. Two lucky subscribers will be selected from the monthly draws in July and August.

Visit http://www.africa.airtel.com/wps/wcm/connect/africaairtel/Ghana/AirtelMoney/ to find out how Airtel Money can make your lives easier. For more information on the Airtel Money DStv Promotion, call 0302 740540.

DStv MOBILE PROMOTION

From now till 31st September 2013, you get a free DStv Mobile device when you buy a fully installed single view decoder for GHC297 and pay 2 months Compact to Premium subscription or sign up to the DStv Zenith Bank Direct Debit Scheme. You will also receive a free DStv Mobile device if you purchase a DStv decoder only at GHC153 and pay 2 months Compact to Premium subscription or pay GHC96 for one year DStv Mobile subscription. For more information on DStv products and services, call 0302740540. 

M-Net Series Showcase (DStv Premium, Ch 113)

The Ellen DeGeneres Show X: The show, now in its 10^th season continues to be the biggest talk show destination for laughter and fun. It highlights Ellen’s one-of-a-kind observational humor, warmth and insight, and featuring the biggest stars from television, film, music and more. The Ellen DeGeneres Show premieres on Tuesday 9 July at 18:00 CAT.

Grimm I: Detective Nick Burkhardt discovers that he is a descendent of an elite line of criminal profilers known as “Grimms”.  Now charged with keeping balance between humanity and the mythological creatures of the world, Nick attempts to hide his newfound calling from his fiancée, Juliette and his partner, Hank Griffin. As Nick becomes drawn into the world of mythological creatures and their rivalries, he struggles with his responsibilities as a detective and his new calling as a Grimm. Catch Grimm I on Friday 12 July 2013.

M-Net (DStv Premium, Ch 103)

American Reunion: Starring Jason Biggs as Jim, Alyson Hannigan as Michelle, Seann William Scott as Stifler, Chris Klein as Oz, and Tara Reid as Vicky, it was summer 1999 when four small-town Michigan boys began a quest to lose their virginity. Jim and Michelle married while Kevin and Vicky said goodbye. Oz and Heather grew apart, but Finch still longs for Stifler’s mom. Now these lifelong friends have come home as adults to reminisce about the hormonal teens who launched a comedy legend. Watch American Reunion on Friday 05 July 2013 20:30 CAT.|

AfricaMagic Entertainment (DStv Premium, Ch 151)

Making of a Mogul: The co-CEO of Def Jam Records is featured in this episode of Making of a Mogul. Abou Thiam’s first job in the music industry was handling A&R for Trouble, the 2004 album from Akon. Since then, he has moved on to become co-CEO of Def Jam Records. A year later, he and Akon set up Interscope-affiliated Kon Live Distribution. Tune in to Making of a Mogul on Saturday 06 July 2013 at 19:00 CAT.

Ebony Life TV (DStv Compact, Compact Plus & Premium, Ch 165)

Mo’s Search: the search for two co-hosts for the popular daily talk show, Moments With Mo is on! Mo is joined by a panel of selectors as they narrow down the search from hundreds of hopefuls to two co-hosts with unique views on an ever-changing world. Mo’s Search screens on Ebony Life weekdays at 20:00 CAT.

Little Miss Jocelyn: This British sketch comedy show is written by and features Jocelyn Jee Esien. The show is made up of studio sketches and hidden camera footage, with unsuspecting members of society becoming part of the show. Catch Little Miss Jocelyn on Mondays at 23:30 CAT. 

Sistaz: These sisters are ready to make their mark in fashion and entertainment as they pursue their dreams. As siblings, their bond of sisterhood is strong enough to see them through the bumps along life’s road. Don’t miss Sistaz on Mondays at 21:30 CAT. 

Channel O (DStv Access, Family, Compact, Compact Plus & Premium, Ch 320)

Top 10 Most- Music Moguls: It’s time for some great laughter with Channel O VJs Jokate and Denrele, as they countdown Africa’s top 10 music moguls. By definition, a mogul is ‘an important, powerful or influential person’. Moguls have usually reached a prominent place in their industry, they have great wealth and most importantly, the respect of their peers.

In this episode of Top 10 Most, see who made this very impressive list of African music moguls. Some of them are recognised around the world, others only in their home country, but their influence has certainly been felt throughout Africa’s music industry. Tune in to Channel O on Sundays at 21:00 CAT.

**Please note that the schedules were confirmed by DStv and accurate as at the time of distribution. Dates and times are subject to change. For more sports news and information, visit www.dstv.com or on www.facebook.com/DStvGhana

The post DStv highlights for the week appeared first on GhanaGist.com.

TRANSFER GOSSIP

Southampton manager Mauricio Pochettino has confirmed his interest in Leandro Damiao. The 23-year-old Brazil striker has also been linked with Tottenham.

Full story: Daily Mail 

Turkish side Besiktas say they are hopeful of signing Emmanuel Adebayor, 29, after lodging an official bid for the Spurs striker.

Full story: Metro 

Leandro Damiao is valued around £18m by his current club Internacional.

Manchester City are ready to listen to offers for Brazilian right-back Maicon. The 31-year-old is behind Pablo Zabaleta and Micah Richards in the Etihad pecking order.

Full story: Daily Mail 

Real Madrid central defender Pepe, 30, is understood to be top of new Man City boss Manuel Pellegrini’s list of transfer targets.

Full story: the Independent 

Newcastle United look set to pull out of the race to sign Wigan Athletic striker Arouna Kone, 29, because he does not fit into the Magpies’ “blueprint”.

Full story: Newcastle Chronicle 

Chelsea and and Tottenham are continuing to monitor Brazil international Hulk, 29, after the Zenit St Petersburg forward confirmed he is aware of the interest from both clubs.

Full story: Daily Express 

Former England striker Carlton Cole, 29, who has been released by West Ham, is understood to have held talks with newly promoted Premier League side Crystal Palace.

Full story: Croydon Advertiser 

Meanwhile, the Eagles are in talks to sign defender Umaru Bangura, 25, from Norwegian club FK Haugesund.

Full story: London Evening Standard 

Hull City have made a final “take it or leave it” £4m offer to Burnley for their 24-year-old striker Charlie Austin.

Full story: Hull Daily Mail 

GLOBAL GOSSIP (sourced by BBC Monitoring)

Fiorentina have signed veteran Italian midfielder Massimo Ambrosini, 36, whose contract with AC Milan has just ended after 18 years with the club.

Full story: Sport24.com 

Ambrosini made 344 appearances for AC Milan in 18 years at the San Siro

Malaga have announced the signing of Ivorian Bobley Anderson, 21, from Moroccan side Wydad Casablanca on a five-year deal.

Full story: Malaga-based newspaper Malaga Hoy 

Slovenian international Bojan Jokic, 27, has signed with Villarreal, leaving AC Chievo Verona.

Full story: Marca 

Spartak Moscow’s Argentine defender Nicolas Pareja, 29, is to go on loan to Sevilla for one year.

Full story: ABC 

Roma have agreed to extend the loan of Jose Angel, 23, to Real Sociedad by one year.

Full story: La Gazzetta dello Sport 

OTHER GOSSIP

Former Manchester City boss Roberto Mancini, 48, says he is still baffled by his sacking but hinted his relationship with chief executive Ferran Soriano played a part in his exit.

Full story: Manchester Evening News 

Chelsea believe new Dutch midfielder Marco van Ginkel can become Frank Lampard’s eventual successor in the Blues midfield.

Full story: Daily Mirror 

AND FINALLY

Recently retired ex-England captain David Beckham has many career highlights to look back on – and now he will not forget any of them after they were immortalised in Lego.

Full story: Metro 

The post Friday’s gossip column appeared first on GhanaGist.com.

When you live in the Big Brother House, your business is everyone’s business. Forget what anyone else told you.

Early this morning, Selly learned this the hard way when her fellow Housemates waded into shaky territory; her love triangle with Sulu and Nando.

As the Diamonds hung out in the bedroom, the gang asked her why she chose Nando over Sulu. Luckily, the mood in the House was festive and Selly was no doubt in a good mood. The Ghanaian was as blunt as they come, revealing how everything was part of her strategy. “It’s part of my game plan”, she said.

In Ruby House news, after expressing his reservations regarding Feza’s enthusiasm for the Wedding Task, it seems Oneal might be warming up to the idea of walking down the aisle in the near future.

Early this morning, Oneal was singing a different tune. “Today, I’m obsessed with you”, he cooed as he looked into his sweethearts eyes. How sweet!

Sulu

Selly

Nando

The post BBA UPDATE: Selly reveals why she chose Nando over Sulu appeared first on GhanaGist.com.

The 2013 Miss Earth Ghana contestants have planted some 3,000 trees in the Northern Region, as part of their contribution to the Greening Ghana campaign and in agreement with the vision and mission of the Pageant.

The contestants started their tree planting exercise at the Ghana Senior High School (GHANASCO), reputed to be the Alma Mata of the president, His Excellency John Dramani Mahama and the First lady, Mrs. Lordina Mahama.

Among other activities, the girls planted over a hundred trees and formed the Ghana Earth Club. From there they visited the offices of the Savannah Accelerated Development Authority (SADA) where they interacted with the management and staff of the organization and had a firsthand understanding of the need to green the savannah belt of the country, grow economically viable trees and empower the people through agriculture.

The delegates were received by Dr Emmanuel Abeefe-Inga, Director of Integrated Development Programmes on behalf of the Managing Director.

They travelled to Kuduzegu farm in the Savelugu District, about 70 kilometers away from Tamale. At the farm the girls assisted by the farmers from the village planted over 1000 mango seedlings in a seven and half acre land. The experience was exciting for the girls as they enthusiastically took up the challenge to plant the mangoes to attest to the fact that their beauty is for a cause. The farmers were very happy to have the girls in their midst and made the exercise very memorable for the contestants and organizers as well.

The contingent travelled for another 30 kilometers to Kukobila/Nasia Farms belonging to Mallam Seidu. The farm manager took the ladies to the nursery which had 74,000 mango seedlings. He explained to the girls the processes involved in grafting and nurturing the seedlings to enjoy a good yield.

They also visited Tamale Girls secondary School where they spoke and interacted with the very attentive students about their mission and vision to see a greener and environmentally-friendly Northern region. Later in the day the contestants planted over five hundred mango trees in the expansive school compound. They were assisted by some of the students. The Ghana Earth Club was formed in the school to majorly be responsible for the nurturing of the trees planted and to help the Miss Earth Organisation Ghana in its future environmental activities around the region.

Everywhere the contestants visited in Tamale, they ensured that trees were planted for posterity. They were assisted in this exercise by Mr. Ebenezer Djaney Djagbletey, the Tamale regional Forestry Manager and his ebullient team of foresters.

The Tamale visit and tree planting project was sponsored by Kukobila Nasia Farms Limited with major support from the Savannah Accelerated Development Authority (SADA).

This year’s activities will climax with the grand finale on July 12, at the National Theatre were the next Queen will be crowned.

Miss Earth Ghana 2013 is sponsored by ACI Construction and supported by African Mining Services, DAVIVA and Eco-Spa Mineral Water.

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GOtv MOBILE PROMOTION

Get a free GOtv Mobile device to watch your favourite programmes whilst you are out and about when you pay GHC 72 for one year GOtv Mobile Subscription or buy a GOtv Decoder plus 3 months subscription at GHC 216. The GOtv Mobile promotion runstill stocks last. Call 0302740540 for information on GOtv products and services 

Sony Entertainment TV (GOtv Plus, Ch 20)

John Q: Starring Hollywood powerhouse Denzel Washington, this movie is about John Quincy Archibald, an ordinary, working-class man who resolves not to sit back and accept his lot when his young son is in desperate need of a new heart. Desperate and fast running out of options, John takes an entire emergency room hostage until the doctors agree to perform the life-saving operation on his son. An absorbing dramatic thriller about the lengths a father will go to for his family, be sure not to miss out on this one. (GOtv: Wednesday, 03 July at 20:00 CAT)

Style (GOtv & GOtv Plus , Ch 26) 

Celebrity Style Story: Every week, Celebrity Style Story chronicles the style evolution of a celebrity from their unforgettable hair and makeup, to their fashion and designer choices. See how the highs and lows of their careers, and personal relationships influenced their outfit choices, and how these give a glimpse into another side of the celebs. A panel of expert hairstylists, make-up artists, fashion stylists, designers and fashion journalists offer their views on the celebrity’s looks and transformation through each stage of their careers. This month’s celebrities include Drew Barrymore, Reese Witherspoon, Jennifer Lopez and Nicole Kidman. (GOtv: Wednesdays at 21:10 CAT)

Resale Royalty: This brand new reality show follows Sue McCarthy along with her daughters, Diana and Laura, who own and operate one of the best resale stores in the country.

This mother-daughter trio work to bring designer brands at affordable prices to their glamourous clientele. With more than 25 years of experience in the resale business, Sue has big plans for the future, but she’ll need her daughters to help manage the expanding empire. However, mixing family and business is never easy. Tune in to Resale Royalty on Wednesdays at 20:15 CAT. 

M-Net Movies Zone (GOtv Plus , Ch 2) 

I Might Need Security: Just when you thought you’d seen all of Jamie Foxx’s talents, M-Net Movies Zone brings you one of his earlier comedy gems in this stand-up special. Made in 2002, the television special premiered on Home Box Office and Foxx’s fresh perspective on politics, love, relationships, life and everything else, will leave you in stitches. Make sure you do not miss this one.(GOtv: Sunday 07 July at 21:00 CAT)

Al Jazeera (GOtv & GOtv Plus , Ch 40)

Wukan – After the Uprising: ”Democracy is Complicated”. Al Jazeera premieres a truly unique documentary series from China about grassroots democracy, filmed over one year with unprecedented access to the newly elected Village Committee of Wukan, a village in China’s southern Guangdong province, which captured the world’s attention in 2011 when it achieved a rare democratic victory. After weeks of noisy protests, and the death of a leading activist, demonstrators succeeded in ousting the Village Committee, which had held power for more than four decades. Democratic elections were announced and Wukan made international headlines. (GOtv: Sunday 7 July at 18:30 CAT)

**Please note that the schedules were confirmed by GOtv and accurate as at the time of distribution. Dates and times are subject to change. For more news and information, visit www.gotvafrica.com or on www.facebook.com/GOtvGhana.

The post GOtv highlights for the week appeared first on GhanaGist.com.

The Musicians Union of Ghana (MUSIGA) has organized an Artiste Development Forum to educate its members on Copyright issues and current music business practices at the Royal Lamerta Hotel in Kumasi on the 26^th of June, 2013. The forum was sponsored by the British Council.

The forum was also an avenue to get more hands to assist in the fight against piracy. Present at the forum were songwriters, producers and musicians.

Resource persons in attendance at the forum were officials of the Copyright Office in Kumasi, Shadrach Obeng Yeboah who was assisted by his colleague Mr Issahaku Nayi and the General Manager of Kessben FM, Andrew Aninkora Danso.

Bice Osei Kuffour the MUSIGA President who was also in attendance, spoke on the essence of a Union and its preparedness to assist GHAMRO and the Copyright Society of Ghana in the discharge of copyright matters.

Lawyer Shadrach Yeboah spoke about the present copyright system in Ghana while Andrew Aninkora Danso discussed modern music business as far as Ghana is concerned. Hopes are high that the forum will help improve the current copyright system and educate the industry players on the advantages and benefits it has to offer them in their line of work.

On his part, Maxwell Osei the Kumasi Programme Manager of the British Council encouraged the participants to utilize the knowledge they have acquired at the seminar to enhance their careers.

The post Forum on Artiste Development and Copyright Issues held in Kumasi appeared first on GhanaGist.com.

Barely a month now, Predy X and his Sweet Musiq Band displayed a superb performance at the Ghana Basketball Awards and got some participants and media critics endorsing him as the future of Hi-Life/Afro- Pop music.

Predy X d’African Star as known by his online fans will be performing alongside Okyeame Kwame, D3, sensational Afrah and Richie Mensah at this year’s ‘Cook 2 Save’ Charity Concert slated on July 13 at the Aviation Social Centre.

‘Cook 2 Save’ is a charity event that seeks to witness 6 top chefs with 6 universities, cooking and raising funds to support orphans. It will be a competition between Zenith University, Jayee University, University of Ghana, University of Professional Studies, Wisonsin University and Accra Polytechnic.

Proceeds of funds will be presented to the Teshie Orphanage in Accra.

This event is proudly sponsored by Onga and supported by Coca Cola, Indomie, Hisense, Danadams Pharmaceuticals and powered by Rite Multimedia.

PredyX Omanae

Source: GhanaGist.com

The post Predy -X Omane, Okyeame Kwame, Richie and others to rock ‘Cook 2 Save’ Charity Concert on July 13 appeared first on GhanaGist.com.

Finalists of this year’s Miss Ghana pageant have successfully held their Talent Show. At an impressive ceremony held at the Unique Floral Gardens at the Trade Fair Centre, the contestants took to the stage to show off their God-given talents, attracting commendation from a cheering crowd, mainly made up of friends and family relations.

A high-profile judging panel which included actors Juliet Ibrahim and Prince David Osei, as well as young Boxer Sena Agbeko and Mr. David Amakye of the University of Ghana, were on hand to usher them on how best to fine-tune their craft.

It was a special occasion for the hundreds of family friends and close associates gathered, as they savoured the rather interesting scenes from the over two hours event.

Co-host of the Miss Ghana Diaries Precious Kyei Bonsu, was the MC for the occasion.

Check out the photos:

The post PHOTOS: Miss Ghana 2013 Talent Show! appeared first on GhanaGist.com.

There are growing reports of a beef between dancehall artiste, Samini and Tema-based music group, R2Bees, made up of Faisal Hakeem (Paedae da Pralem) and Rashid Mugeez (Mugeez). The reports gained currency after Nigerian music star Wizkid, during last Saturday’s Ghana Meets Naija concert at the AccraInternational Conference Centre, refused to perform with Samini.

According sources, Wizkid refused to join Samini perform their hit song Time Bomb due to the beef between Samini and R2Bees. The Nigerian is said to have taken that stance in solidarity with R2Bees.

Wizkid and Samini were lined up as the last acts for the show, and according tothe show’s itinerary, Wizkid was supposed to usher Samini on to the stage withTime Bomb.

READ ALSO: Wizkid refuses to perform ‘Time Bomb’ with Samini at #GhanaMeetsNaija due to beef with R2Bees

To the disappointment of many, that never happened. Many were disappointed because it was the first time the two artistes were going to perform that song together on stage.

It is alleged that Kwabena Anokye Adisi popularly known as Bola Ray, CEO of Empire Entertainment, organizers of the concert, even went back stage to talk to Wizkid and his manager about it but they refused to perform with Samini.

Sources close to Empire Entertainment explained to Myjoyonline.com that while they cannot confirm if there is a row between Samini and R2Bees, Wizkid on the night turned down the planned performance with Samini.

When we contacted Tony Pun, Manager of Samini, he stressed that there was no beef between the two artistes and that, although he has heard the reports, “Wizkid was with Samini and Timaya at the artistes room [and] they were all cracking jokes and laughing,” on the night of the Ghana Meets Naija concert.

Samini and Wizkid

Asked why the two artistes did not perform their hit song Time Bomb on the night, Tony explained that, it was “because both artistes had their stage act and entry. Bola Ray [and his team] changed the running order the last minute…which I didn’t know of.”

A source close R2Bees revealed to us that Wizkid had intended not to perform at the concert when he discovered that the Tema-based group was no longer on the bill as they were away in the US for the BET Awards.

Asked if Wizkid did not know that R2Bees had been nominated for the Black Entertainment Television (BET) Awards and, therefore, will not be able to perform at the Ghana Meets Naija concert which also came off on June 29, the source said Bola Ray signed most of the acts for the show before the BET Awards nominees were announced.

The source said there is no beef between the two artistes and that Wizkid said he was tired after performing 13 songs at the concert and therefore could not perform with Samini.

Myjoyonline.com checks on Wizkid’s twitter handle revealed this post by The Matter singer: “Performed 13 songs tonight!! The people went crazy! Hits after hits! Raaaaaah!!!!”

R2Bees

A third party, who wants to remain anonymous and also knows the ins and outs of the two camps told Myjoyonline.com that although both parties are denying the existence of bad blood between the singers, all is not well.

The source said the feud between Samini and R2Bees started in November 2012 when Sarkodie and R2Bees, who were billed to perform at the Malta Guinness sponsored Top of the World Celebration concert threatened to pull out of the show on allegations that the money offered by Charter House, organizers of the concert, was not enough.

It was reported that Sarkodie and R2Bees had agreed to a performance fee of US$20,000 and US$10,000 but later reviewed the figure when they heard that US$200,000 performance fee was paid to Nigerian music group P-Square.

Although R2Bees pulled out of that show, Sarkodie went ahead to perform at the concert. Samini was a last minute call up to fill the void left by R2Bees.

The source explained that R2Bees were particularly disappointed that Samini did not turn down the offer considering the kind of ‘friendship’ that existed between them, especially between Samini and Paedae.

The source reveled that the beef has hampered attempts by Samini to record a video for the Time Bomb hit song which is currently receiving heavy rotations across the country. The song was recorded shortly before the Top of the World Celebration issue.

The source called on industry professionals to address the issue as soon as possible as it might have dire consciences on the unity of Ghanaian and Nigerian music industries

Culled from Myjoyonline

The post R2bees and Samini camps speak out on Wizkid snubbing Samini at Ghana Meets Naija appeared first on GhanaGist.com.

The maiden edition of the BASS Awards is scheduled for Saturday July 6 at the National Theatre with Energy God, Elephant Man as the headline artiste.

Tonight (July 5) is the nominee’s party at the Accra Sports Stadium. In a hurriedly arranged Press Conference to welcome Elephant Man, the organizers Rackus Productions and partners Bullhaus Entertainment and Solid Multimedia unveiled the BASS Awards.

I think it’s smart and simple. How about you?

Check out:

Sadeeq Abdulai Abu displaying the BASS Awards trophy at the Press Conference

Sadeeq Abdulai Abu displaying the BASS Awards trophy at the Press Conference

2013 BASS Awards trophy

The post SEE IT FIRST: Check out BASS Awards trophy! appeared first on GhanaGist.com.

The Ghana auditions for Africa’s Next Top Model will be held at the M-Plaza Hotel on July 20. The Top Model franchise,shown in three continents and over thirty five countries has finally made its way onto the African continent.

Africa’s Next Top Model will be shot in Johannesburg and Cape Town in South Africa and will have a total of twelve contestants who will live in a house equipped with cameras and microphones monitoring their every move for a period of eight weeks.

Contestants will be evaluated on regular basis by a panel of judges headed by Oluchi Orlandi. It will all come down to just two contestants, who will battle it out for the coveted title of Africa’s Next Top Model Season One winner.

The Ghana auditions will run from 7am through to 7pm.

Applicants should be between the ages of 18 and 27 and are advised to bring along their valid passports. Applications can be downloaded on www.antmafrica.com and submitted on day of the auditions.

Africa’s Next Top Model is powered by Lulu Productions LLC.

TIPS FOR AUDITIONING

Oluchi is looking for fresh, young, raw talents. Keep this in mind before you leave home for the auditions.

1. Keep make-up on the minimal; a coat of mascara and some lip balm is perfect.

2. Make sure your heels are COMFORTABLE.

3. Look EFFORTLESS and confident; wear a simple skinny jeans with a tank top.

4. Don’t forget to fill out the forms online before going to the audition venue.

5. Carry along a bottle of water and a smoothie  to keep you hydrated.

Stay positive. Good luck with the auditions!! Wish you the very best… x

for more tips on auditioning, any questions/concerns email: lorawords@gmail.com

The post Are you a model? Africa’s Next Top Model Ghana auditions on July 20 appeared first on GhanaGist.com.