In a recent interview with a media house in Lagos, Ahmedu Augustine Obiabo, popularly known as Blackface, a veteran singer-songwriter and former member of the defunct Plantashun Boiz, has made serious accusations against Wizkid, Burna Boy, and Asake, alleging that they have engaged in intellectual property theft by sampling his songs without his permission.
Blackface specifically pointed out that Wizkid and Burna Boy's track "Ginger" is a sample of his own song "Twist & Turn."
According to him, the rhythms, the beat, and even the way the melody starts and ends are all taken from his original composition. He highlighted that only the verses were changed. Additionally, Blackface accused Asake of sampling his song "Ikebe Supa" in his track "Joha," claiming that his music serves as an inspiration to these artists.
While Blackface acknowledges that he doesn't mind young artists sampling his songs, he expressed his disappointment in the manner in which they go about it without seeking his permission.
These allegations by Blackface bring to the forefront the ongoing debate surrounding copyright infringement and creative ownership within the music industry.
As the discussion unfolds, it remains to be seen how the accused artists will respond to these allegations and whether steps will be taken to address the issue of intellectual property theft.
Blackface's decision to speak out about this matter sheds light on the need for open dialogue and awareness regarding intellectual property rights in the music community.
In a remarkable gesture of recognition and support for academic excellence, Governor Godwin Obaseki of Edo State has announced that Aminat Yusuf, the best law student from Lagos State University (LASU) with a remarkable 5.0 Cumulative Grade Point Average (CGPA), will be placed on a salary and have her Law School programme sponsored by the Edo State Government.
The governor conveyed this news through Anthony Okungbowa, the Head of Service, affirming that additional benefits have been approved for this outstanding student.
He said, “This is an update on our daughter, Aminat Yusuf after the Government of Edo State honoured her in respect of her academic performance in LASU for graduating with a perfect CGPA of 5.00. “Following this achievement, the government offered her automatic employment and the governor has now approved other things for her beyond the employment.
The governor has directed that Aminat Yusuf will be sponsored on scholarship for one year in the Nigerian Law School and that the government will be responsible for the provision of all her needs till she completes the programme.”
He added: “The governor also approved that for every month that she will be in law school, she will receive an up-keep allowance equivalent to the salary of a State Counsel, which is almost N200,000 naira.
“This is in recognition of the feat she achieved in LASU. We are proud of her achievement and hope she would join us after her law school programme as we will write to NYSC to ensure that she embarks on her one-year compulsory youth service in the State.”
Every year on June 21st, World Music Day is celebrated globally, bringing together musicians and music enthusiasts to honor the beauty and diversity of music from around the world.
This special day serves as a reminder of the power of music to transcend cultural boundaries, unite people, and evoke emotions that words alone cannot express.
From traditional melodies to contemporary beats, World Music Day showcases the universal language of music and its ability to touch our souls. Let's dive into the significance of this day and explore how it resonates with people worldwide.
The Origins of World Music Day
World Music Day, also known as Fête de la Musique, originated in France in 1982. It was initiated by the French Ministry of Culture to celebrate the summer solstice, encouraging amateur and professional musicians to perform in the streets, parks, and public spaces.
Since its inception, this musical movement has spread to over 120 countries, fostering a global celebration of music.
World Music Day: A Tribute to Cultural Diversity
One of the most remarkable aspects of world music is its ability to showcase the rich cultural heritage of different regions and countries. From African drumming to Indian classical ragas, from Latin American salsa to European classical symphonies, every culture has its unique sounds, rhythms, and instruments.
World Music Day serves as a platform to appreciate and preserve these diverse musical traditions, fostering cultural understanding and respect.
Breaking Barriers and Building Bridges In Music
Music has an incredible power to connect people from different backgrounds, languages, and belief systems. On World Music Day, musicians and music lovers join forces, embracing the spirit of unity and harmony.
Concerts and performances are held across cities, inviting individuals of all ages and backgrounds to come together and enjoy the magic of music. These shared experiences help to bridge gaps, build relationships, and promote a sense of global community.
Celebrating Local Talent and Emerging Artists in the Music Industry
World Music Day provides a unique opportunity for local and emerging artists to showcase their talents to a wider audience. Streets and parks come alive with vibrant performances, impromptu jam sessions, and musical collaborations.
The celebration encourages music enthusiasts to explore new genres, discover hidden gems, and support their local music scenes. It's a day when the spotlight shines on the diverse voices that enrich the world of music.
Music's Healing Power
Beyond its role as entertainment, music possesses a therapeutic quality that can heal, uplift, and inspire. World Music Day highlights the healing power of music and its positive impact on mental and emotional well-being.
Numerous studies have shown that music has the ability to reduce stress, improve mood, enhance cognitive function, and foster a sense of belonging.
Numerous studies have shown that music has the ability to reduce stress, improve mood, enhance cognitive function, and foster a sense of belonging. On this day, people can immerse themselves in melodies that resonate with their souls, finding solace and joy through the universal language of music.
World Music Day is a testament to the remarkable influence of music in our lives. It brings people together, breaks down barriers, and celebrates the diverse tapestry of musical expressions worldwide.
On this day, let us appreciate the magic of music, explore new genres, support local artists, and embrace the power of melodies to connect us all. Whether you are a musician or a passionate listener, join the global celebration and let the music fill your heart on this World Music Day.
Business tycoon Aliko Dangote and co-chair of the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation, Bill Gates, had been received in audience by President Bola Tinubu, at the State House in Abuja.
The visit is part of the Gates Foundation’s commitment to working closely with communities and leaders to support innovation.
The meeting was held behind closed-doors, after which Dangote, with Bill Gates standing beside him, spoke to newsmen on the matters discussed.
Earlier, President Tinubu met the Chairman of Bhanti Artel Worldwide, Sunil Bharti Mittal, who came in company of Dr. Segun Ogunsanya, Chief Executive Officer Airtel Nigeria and other members of the company’s board.
The President also held a meeting with the United States Assistant Secretary of State, Bureau of Energy Resources, Ambassador Geoffrey Praytt, as well as the GCEO-NNPC, Mele Kolo Kyari.
In the weeks following his inauguration, President Bola Tinubu has continued to receive in audience various prominent guests in Aso Rock.