OTS GETS ON THE TOP 50 IMC AGENCY LIST
‘‘Opportunity-to-See Limited’’ recently got listed as one of the top 50 Integrated Marketing Communications Agencies in Nigeria.
This rating was profiled by a leading Marketing and Management weekly, M2, which came on the heels of ‘‘Opportunity-to-see Limited’’ strongly positioning itself as a major force to reckon with in the Out-of-home industry within its short timeline of entry into the industry.
Speaking with Outdoor Republic, Managing Director, Mr Emmanuel Ajufo says ‘‘the listing is timely, as we are expanding and re-positioning to better service our esteemed growing clientele’’. I am happy our commitments to our clients are paying off as our diligence is being rewarded. He said
Friday, March 5, 2010
AFROMEDIA SIGNS PPP MOU WITH LASAA
AFROMEDIA SIGNS PPP MOU WITH LASAA
Afromedia, Nigeria’s foremost Out-of-Home agency recently signed a private partnership agreement with Lagos State Government through the Lagos State Signage and Advertisement Agency (LASAA).
The partnership agreement would give exclusive branding rights to Afromedia Plc on Lagos streets signed up for a ten year concession period. During this concession period, Afromedia Plc would pay LASAA maintenance fee asides the one-off contract sum which would be used in fixing the lights. An annual maintenance fee will also be paid to LASAA in order to ensure continued illumination of franchised street lights between dusk to dawn.
Speaking at the contract signing ceremony, Managing Director LASAA, Mr Makanjuola Alabi disclosed that the partnership is a welcome innovation by the Lagos State Government as same is coming from the biggest Outdoor Company in Nigeria. ‘‘Afromedia is setting the pace’’ He says.
The MOU signing ceremony which took place at the LASAA office was witnessed by representatives of both organisations.
Afromedia, Nigeria’s foremost Out-of-Home agency recently signed a private partnership agreement with Lagos State Government through the Lagos State Signage and Advertisement Agency (LASAA).
The partnership agreement would give exclusive branding rights to Afromedia Plc on Lagos streets signed up for a ten year concession period. During this concession period, Afromedia Plc would pay LASAA maintenance fee asides the one-off contract sum which would be used in fixing the lights. An annual maintenance fee will also be paid to LASAA in order to ensure continued illumination of franchised street lights between dusk to dawn.
Speaking at the contract signing ceremony, Managing Director LASAA, Mr Makanjuola Alabi disclosed that the partnership is a welcome innovation by the Lagos State Government as same is coming from the biggest Outdoor Company in Nigeria. ‘‘Afromedia is setting the pace’’ He says.
The MOU signing ceremony which took place at the LASAA office was witnessed by representatives of both organisations.
AAAN AND OAAN RENEW CAMPAIGN FOR REVIVAL OF HASG
AAAN AND OAAN RENEW CAMPAIGN FOR REVIVAL OF HASG
The Funmi Onabolu led Association of Advertising of Advertising Agencies of Nigeria (AAAN) which controls Advertising Practitioners Council of Nigeria recently paid a courtesy visit to Kole Ademugun’s Outdoor Advertising Association of Nigeria (OAAN) Secretariat to discuss burning issues as it affects the advertising industry. One of such is the debt allegedly owed as media organisations, advertisers and advertising agencies.
According to Onabolu, competition among players in the marketing communications industry is heightening, as such, resolving certain business challenges demands the co-operation of all stakeholders.
The issue has polarised the ranks of sectorial groups in the industry. The groups are Association of Advertising Agencies of Nigeria (AAAN); Advertisers Association of Nigeria (ADVAN); Media Independent Practitioners' Association of Nigeria (MIPAN); Outdoor Advertising Association of Nigeria (OAAN); Newspapers Proprietors Association of Nigeria (NPAN); and Broadcasting Organisation of Nigeria (BON).
While each group exists for specialised practice within advertising, which binds them together, over the years, these groups have learnt to come together with the creation of Heads of Advertising Sectoral Group (HASG) as a platform to collectively address industry related issues.
In the last few years, however, HASG has, more or less, become moribund. The dominant belief in the industry is that the debt issue scattered the group, But the leadership of AAAN is championing the revival of the (HASG),as Mr. Funmi Onabolu underscored the need to bring back the congregation of the leaders of the sectorial groups.
Accompanied by Vice President, Longley Evru and Executive Director in-charge of the Secretariat, Lekan Fadolapo, the guests were received by the OAAN President, Bankole Ademulegun; first Vice President, Yinka Adepoju, second Vice President, Charles Chijide; General Secretary, Emeka Okezie; Atilola Odudare of Gems Communications and others.
"At the platform which was designed to discuss issues that can foster better working environment, chronicling issues of industry concern, says HASG must be brought back. We should work on this quickly," Onabolu stated.
He noted that his association was already talking with the representatives of NPAN, ADVAN, MIPAN and BON and "they are desirous to have HASG resuscitated."
Further appreciating the efforts of the Advertising Practitioners' Council of Nigeria (APCON) in resolving the debt drama, Onabolu regretted that AAAN has continued to take undue flaks. "It is a shameful thing that we have not resolved this matter, but it underscores the way we have been doing business," he lamented. Onabolu told his hosts that the association had resolved to have a change of way of doing business, which would involve coming up with certain policies."We want to carry everybody along," Onabolu eulogised.
Funmi Onabolu canvassed the adoption of a credit policy that borrows from how business is done at global level. "We should look at best practices that everybody will endorse. Self-regulation mechanism is also important. It is needed badly. Debt is a business issue that should be resolved internally."Doing business directly with clients (advertisers) has also created problems in the advertising industry. Such practice, he decried, could only happen in Nigeria as "it does not happen in South Africa, in Europe and America."
Onabolu presenting a list of demands that could enhance good business relationship between the two organisations which include differential commission, adequate notice before rate increment, collaboration on training and research and the need for OAAN members to take maintenance of billboards seriously."Let us dialogue constantly. It is easy to solve problems together," Onabolu concluded.
In response, Ademulegun thanked AAAN leadership for the visit and pledged the support of his group to any effort that will stimulate growth in the advertising industry.
while expressing joy over the attempt to revive HASG, Ademulegun said."Our relationship with AAAN has been cordial. I pledge that OAAN will continue to support efforts to grow the industry," he said, reiterating that, "outdoor industry is changing. We are changing the face of outdoor in Nigeria starting from Lagos, Abuja and Enugu. The challenge however is funding. We have approached banks to bring in latest outdoor structures and they are responding." Kole Ademulegun therefore solicited support and understanding from AAAN, noting that "introduction of new products (billboards) may attract adjustment of rate."
The Funmi Onabolu led Association of Advertising of Advertising Agencies of Nigeria (AAAN) which controls Advertising Practitioners Council of Nigeria recently paid a courtesy visit to Kole Ademugun’s Outdoor Advertising Association of Nigeria (OAAN) Secretariat to discuss burning issues as it affects the advertising industry. One of such is the debt allegedly owed as media organisations, advertisers and advertising agencies.
According to Onabolu, competition among players in the marketing communications industry is heightening, as such, resolving certain business challenges demands the co-operation of all stakeholders.
The issue has polarised the ranks of sectorial groups in the industry. The groups are Association of Advertising Agencies of Nigeria (AAAN); Advertisers Association of Nigeria (ADVAN); Media Independent Practitioners' Association of Nigeria (MIPAN); Outdoor Advertising Association of Nigeria (OAAN); Newspapers Proprietors Association of Nigeria (NPAN); and Broadcasting Organisation of Nigeria (BON).
While each group exists for specialised practice within advertising, which binds them together, over the years, these groups have learnt to come together with the creation of Heads of Advertising Sectoral Group (HASG) as a platform to collectively address industry related issues.
In the last few years, however, HASG has, more or less, become moribund. The dominant belief in the industry is that the debt issue scattered the group, But the leadership of AAAN is championing the revival of the (HASG),as Mr. Funmi Onabolu underscored the need to bring back the congregation of the leaders of the sectorial groups.
Accompanied by Vice President, Longley Evru and Executive Director in-charge of the Secretariat, Lekan Fadolapo, the guests were received by the OAAN President, Bankole Ademulegun; first Vice President, Yinka Adepoju, second Vice President, Charles Chijide; General Secretary, Emeka Okezie; Atilola Odudare of Gems Communications and others.
"At the platform which was designed to discuss issues that can foster better working environment, chronicling issues of industry concern, says HASG must be brought back. We should work on this quickly," Onabolu stated.
He noted that his association was already talking with the representatives of NPAN, ADVAN, MIPAN and BON and "they are desirous to have HASG resuscitated."
Further appreciating the efforts of the Advertising Practitioners' Council of Nigeria (APCON) in resolving the debt drama, Onabolu regretted that AAAN has continued to take undue flaks. "It is a shameful thing that we have not resolved this matter, but it underscores the way we have been doing business," he lamented. Onabolu told his hosts that the association had resolved to have a change of way of doing business, which would involve coming up with certain policies."We want to carry everybody along," Onabolu eulogised.
Funmi Onabolu canvassed the adoption of a credit policy that borrows from how business is done at global level. "We should look at best practices that everybody will endorse. Self-regulation mechanism is also important. It is needed badly. Debt is a business issue that should be resolved internally."Doing business directly with clients (advertisers) has also created problems in the advertising industry. Such practice, he decried, could only happen in Nigeria as "it does not happen in South Africa, in Europe and America."
Onabolu presenting a list of demands that could enhance good business relationship between the two organisations which include differential commission, adequate notice before rate increment, collaboration on training and research and the need for OAAN members to take maintenance of billboards seriously."Let us dialogue constantly. It is easy to solve problems together," Onabolu concluded.
In response, Ademulegun thanked AAAN leadership for the visit and pledged the support of his group to any effort that will stimulate growth in the advertising industry.
while expressing joy over the attempt to revive HASG, Ademulegun said."Our relationship with AAAN has been cordial. I pledge that OAAN will continue to support efforts to grow the industry," he said, reiterating that, "outdoor industry is changing. We are changing the face of outdoor in Nigeria starting from Lagos, Abuja and Enugu. The challenge however is funding. We have approached banks to bring in latest outdoor structures and they are responding." Kole Ademulegun therefore solicited support and understanding from AAAN, noting that "introduction of new products (billboards) may attract adjustment of rate."
Thursday, February 25, 2010
ADEMULEGUN KOLE TASKS OAAN MEMBERS TO INNOVATE
Dayo Adejobi
At the recent Sign Show in Dubai not less than 35 OAAN member companies were present. In the words of Kole Ademulegun, ‘‘the attendance of my members at the Sign Show is remarkable in the life of the Association, my members are becoming more aware of the fact that advertising as a profession is fast moving and outdoor as part of this all –important industry must add value, not take away from it.’’ He eulogised.
According to OAAN President, Mr. Kole Ademulegun, who was also a participant at the recently concluded Sign Show ‘‘one would easily notice the diversity of the products at the venue’’ he said. He also further expressed interest in innovative products to fuel expansion plans for his company as well as cutting –edge and cost effective equipments for growth of digital advertising.
According to Ademulegun, the show has got several exhibitors while an important feature of the event was the wide array of state-of the art equipment and technologies on display. I am happy my members were there, and I urge them to embrace such innovation.
, ‘‘I look forward to welcoming our foreign counterparts from some African countries, European suppliers and officials of FEPE in April, 2010 at the upcoming Poster Awards’’. Ademulegun says.
Speaking at an exclusive interview, Kole says ‘‘we are beginning to relate to our counterparts in other parts of the world, joining the relevant outdoor bodies like FEPE which is the global for outdoor practitioners, attending international trade fairs, exhibitions and conferences.’’ All summing up to the fact that there is a lot of benefit from these various interactions. He explains.
At the recent Sign Show in Dubai not less than 35 OAAN member companies were present. In the words of Kole Ademulegun, ‘‘the attendance of my members at the Sign Show is remarkable in the life of the Association, my members are becoming more aware of the fact that advertising as a profession is fast moving and outdoor as part of this all –important industry must add value, not take away from it.’’ He eulogised.
According to OAAN President, Mr. Kole Ademulegun, who was also a participant at the recently concluded Sign Show ‘‘one would easily notice the diversity of the products at the venue’’ he said. He also further expressed interest in innovative products to fuel expansion plans for his company as well as cutting –edge and cost effective equipments for growth of digital advertising.
According to Ademulegun, the show has got several exhibitors while an important feature of the event was the wide array of state-of the art equipment and technologies on display. I am happy my members were there, and I urge them to embrace such innovation.
, ‘‘I look forward to welcoming our foreign counterparts from some African countries, European suppliers and officials of FEPE in April, 2010 at the upcoming Poster Awards’’. Ademulegun says.
Speaking at an exclusive interview, Kole says ‘‘we are beginning to relate to our counterparts in other parts of the world, joining the relevant outdoor bodies like FEPE which is the global for outdoor practitioners, attending international trade fairs, exhibitions and conferences.’’ All summing up to the fact that there is a lot of benefit from these various interactions. He explains.
SEED MEDIA BECOMES YAHOO’S FRANCHISE OPERATOR IN NIGERIA
SEED MEDIA BECOMES YAHOO’S FRANCHISE OPERATOR IN NIGERIA
In the bid to further educate stakeholders on ways to increase sales with effective use of online advertising platform, Seed Media, a Nigerian award winning Advertising and digital agency last month organised a seminar with the theme ‘online Advertising: The Future’’ hosted Yahoo Incorporated, the world’s most traffic internet portal in Lagos.
According to CEO Seed Media, Dominic Essien, gone are the days when the people you think know your company will always know. So you have to make effort to sustain your website and constantly develop exciting content, because that is what keeps the brand alive. He further added that Social media is an emerging market in Nigeria and as such Nigerian corporate organisations need to take full advantage of it.
Speaking on the need for a brand to be impressed on the mind of the target consumer, Yinka Akande,Director Brands and Communication, Etisalat, said ‘‘Don’t make your Integrated marketing decisions by asking what online advertising will do for you. Instead, what you should ask is will online advertising help in entrenching the brand in the mind of the consumer.’’
For the CEO Connect Marketing, Tunji Adeyinka, Looking beyond the web is essential as custodians of brands need to understand changing trends and consumer behaviour .He further enthused that ‘‘digital leveraging should not be done to fulfil all righteousness, but should be done to fill a gap. It should be done in a way that the consumer does not just see an advert, but an action he need to take.
Seed Media, which commenced operations in 2006,is the first Nigerian Company to advertise Nigerian brands on global internet portal, it is also the franchise owner and representative of internet giant,Yahoo in Nigeria.
In the bid to further educate stakeholders on ways to increase sales with effective use of online advertising platform, Seed Media, a Nigerian award winning Advertising and digital agency last month organised a seminar with the theme ‘online Advertising: The Future’’ hosted Yahoo Incorporated, the world’s most traffic internet portal in Lagos.
According to CEO Seed Media, Dominic Essien, gone are the days when the people you think know your company will always know. So you have to make effort to sustain your website and constantly develop exciting content, because that is what keeps the brand alive. He further added that Social media is an emerging market in Nigeria and as such Nigerian corporate organisations need to take full advantage of it.
Speaking on the need for a brand to be impressed on the mind of the target consumer, Yinka Akande,Director Brands and Communication, Etisalat, said ‘‘Don’t make your Integrated marketing decisions by asking what online advertising will do for you. Instead, what you should ask is will online advertising help in entrenching the brand in the mind of the consumer.’’
For the CEO Connect Marketing, Tunji Adeyinka, Looking beyond the web is essential as custodians of brands need to understand changing trends and consumer behaviour .He further enthused that ‘‘digital leveraging should not be done to fulfil all righteousness, but should be done to fill a gap. It should be done in a way that the consumer does not just see an advert, but an action he need to take.
Seed Media, which commenced operations in 2006,is the first Nigerian Company to advertise Nigerian brands on global internet portal, it is also the franchise owner and representative of internet giant,Yahoo in Nigeria.
AFOMEDIA PLC HOLD POST-NSE AGM
AFROMEDIA PLC TO HOLD AGM IN MARCH
Dayo Adejobi
Afromedia Plc, Nigeria’s Premier Outdoor Advertising which recently got listed on the Nigerian Stock Exchange is making preparations to hold its 44th Annual General Meeting next month at the Banquet Hall, Sheraton Hotel and Towers, Lagos on Wednesday, 3rd March.2010 at 11am. The Company Secretary, Adebisi Erioluwa made this known in a notice signed and made available to the media.
Dayo Adejobi
Afromedia Plc, Nigeria’s Premier Outdoor Advertising which recently got listed on the Nigerian Stock Exchange is making preparations to hold its 44th Annual General Meeting next month at the Banquet Hall, Sheraton Hotel and Towers, Lagos on Wednesday, 3rd March.2010 at 11am. The Company Secretary, Adebisi Erioluwa made this known in a notice signed and made available to the media.
SIGN GRAPHIC IMAGING 2010, A HARVEST OF DIGITAL OUTDOOR TECHNOLOGY.
SIGN GRAPHIC IMAGING 2010, A HARVEST OF DIGITAL OUTDOOR TECHNOLOGY.
International Expo Consults, a global digital advertising exhibition consultancy firm last month in Dubai held the 12th Annual Sign and Graphic Imaging Middle East at Dubai Airport Expo centre, between the 25th to 27th January 2010.
Sign and Graphic Imaging Middle East exhibition now in its 12th year, is a specialized event dedicated to the Middle East’s signage, outdoor media, screen and digital printing industries. It’s the largest and the longest running show in the region which attracted both exhibitors and visitors from across the UAE, Egypt, Lebanon, Iran, Iraq, India, Pakistan, East and West Africa etc.
The epoch making event offered the perfect ambience to enhance global brands with the needed strong platform for promoting organizational values and image amongst a large number echelons from the Signage, Graphic Imaging, and Screen and Digital Printing Industries.
This year, greater international exposure was experienced 216 exhibitors from 22 countries including Nigeria showcased their offerings, spread across an area of 16,944 square metres with global companies constituting 73.14% of the total number of exhibitors. While the local exhibitors lie at 26.85% that from emerging economies such as India and China who claimed a staggering 43.05% of the exhibitor portfolio, with the presence of more than 100 companies.
The interest and participation from Nigerian from Nigerian Outdoor Advertising companies was tremendous as the companies like Media link, Afro Media, Graphic Projects, Charella, Outreach Communications, Opportunity-to See Limited, Clearedge, Luzomedia, Inventmedia, Corpavent, Spec Digital Prints limited, Nigerian Advertising Services and Standout amongst a long list were present at the just concluded exhibition.
According to the Nigerian Facilitator, Managing Director, Graphic Projects, Chief Emeka Okezie, the Middle East Sign Graphic Imaging exhibition is a professional exhibition, aimed at facilitating trade activities and cultural communication for the industries of Outdoor advertising, imaging and signage, thus showcasing the latest in digital signage, architectural hardware, banners and posters, photo imaging and printing, large format printing, sign substrates, graphics industry services and more through various media partners, practioners and outdoor agencies all over the world. The exhibition is a platform of marketing information and research services.
Amongst dignitaries at the twelfth edition of the Sign and Graphic Imaging Middle East, His Royal Highness Sheikh Hasher Bin Maktoum, Director General of Dubai Information department.
Dubai with its US$ 100 billion retail market and its emerging retail trends known for its unique perpetual growth rate during this exclusive trade show offered international tremendous opportunities across all segments of the signage, digital, retail and advertising industries.
International Expo Consults, a global digital advertising exhibition consultancy firm last month in Dubai held the 12th Annual Sign and Graphic Imaging Middle East at Dubai Airport Expo centre, between the 25th to 27th January 2010.
Sign and Graphic Imaging Middle East exhibition now in its 12th year, is a specialized event dedicated to the Middle East’s signage, outdoor media, screen and digital printing industries. It’s the largest and the longest running show in the region which attracted both exhibitors and visitors from across the UAE, Egypt, Lebanon, Iran, Iraq, India, Pakistan, East and West Africa etc.
The epoch making event offered the perfect ambience to enhance global brands with the needed strong platform for promoting organizational values and image amongst a large number echelons from the Signage, Graphic Imaging, and Screen and Digital Printing Industries.
This year, greater international exposure was experienced 216 exhibitors from 22 countries including Nigeria showcased their offerings, spread across an area of 16,944 square metres with global companies constituting 73.14% of the total number of exhibitors. While the local exhibitors lie at 26.85% that from emerging economies such as India and China who claimed a staggering 43.05% of the exhibitor portfolio, with the presence of more than 100 companies.
The interest and participation from Nigerian from Nigerian Outdoor Advertising companies was tremendous as the companies like Media link, Afro Media, Graphic Projects, Charella, Outreach Communications, Opportunity-to See Limited, Clearedge, Luzomedia, Inventmedia, Corpavent, Spec Digital Prints limited, Nigerian Advertising Services and Standout amongst a long list were present at the just concluded exhibition.
According to the Nigerian Facilitator, Managing Director, Graphic Projects, Chief Emeka Okezie, the Middle East Sign Graphic Imaging exhibition is a professional exhibition, aimed at facilitating trade activities and cultural communication for the industries of Outdoor advertising, imaging and signage, thus showcasing the latest in digital signage, architectural hardware, banners and posters, photo imaging and printing, large format printing, sign substrates, graphics industry services and more through various media partners, practioners and outdoor agencies all over the world. The exhibition is a platform of marketing information and research services.
Amongst dignitaries at the twelfth edition of the Sign and Graphic Imaging Middle East, His Royal Highness Sheikh Hasher Bin Maktoum, Director General of Dubai Information department.
Dubai with its US$ 100 billion retail market and its emerging retail trends known for its unique perpetual growth rate during this exclusive trade show offered international tremendous opportunities across all segments of the signage, digital, retail and advertising industries.
KOKORO’S DREAM FULFILLED AS FASHOLA IMMORTALISES BLIND MINISTREL
Adedayo Adejobi
The Governor of Lagos state, Babatunde Raji Fashola today through a corporate Social Responsibility immortalized and brought to life the memory of the late legendary bitinerant tambourine-playing minstrel,Pa Benjamin Aderounmu better known as ‘‘Kokoro’’. The Public presentation and launch of a re-produced audio-visual collection of songs titled Igi Araba by yesterday brought to life Pa Benjamin’s unfulfilled dream which was to release an album.
The Lagos state governor, Babtunde Fashola, who was represented by the Commisioner for Home Affairs and Culture, Honourable Tunde Balogun called Kokoro a “national cultural treasure of inestimable value to the state”, that “his never say-die spirit has been a source of inspiration”, and that it was in the interest of the state government to recognize and celebrate him while alive, because “it is in celebrating you that we are celebrating ourselves.”
In the words of Governor Fashola, ‘‘In tandem with the philosophy of this administration of encouraging public Private Partnership (PPP), we have joined Keem Communications in this laudable initiative to present and launch the compilation works of ‘‘Kokoro-IGI ARABA’’for the listening public, lovers of good music, the younger generations, upcoming ones, old fans of the musician I would call ‘‘the old schools’’ and indeed for posterity.
According to Fashola, ‘‘Kokoro’’, though blind, he was a man who contributed in no mean way to the promotion of Yoruba culture and tradition. ‘‘A man who refused to be limited by life’s adversity and proved through his talent that disability was not synonymous with inability, deserves to be remembered and celebrated.’’ He said
The event which took place at the Shell Hall, Muson Centre, Onikan, Lagos was chaired by Oba Akiolu of Lagos while Chief Kessington Adebutu served as Father of the day and Chief Launcher respectively. Other notable dignitaries who graced the occasion were Erelu Dosunmu, Bisade Ologunde (Lagbaja), Pa Chris Ajilo and Dele Abiodun.
According to the organiser of the event, Keem Communications Limited, Mr Yomi Opakunle disclosed that a certain percentage of the proceeds of the launch will go to the family of the deceased minstrel while another will be donated to some charity homes in Kokoro's name.
Among highlights of the colourful epoch making event were recognition and presentation of award plaques to Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu as the‘‘Grand Pillar of Soccour’’, with Governor Babatunde Fashola being honoured with the award ‘‘Pillar of Soccour’’ while Bisade Ologunde popularly known as Lagbaja bagged the award ‘‘Pillar of Soccour’’ respectively.
Barely a month before celebrating his 84th birthday which would have come up on 25th February 2009, Pa Benjamin Aderonmu, popularly named ‘KOKORO’ and also known in recent times until early 2008 as “The Homeless Blind Minstrel” died at the age of 83.
family in Owo (his father was a prince), a town in the western region of Nigeria, Kokoro passed on to glory on Sunday 25th January in Lagos. He was survived by his wife, Caroline, and two children.
The Governor of Lagos state, Babatunde Raji Fashola today through a corporate Social Responsibility immortalized and brought to life the memory of the late legendary bitinerant tambourine-playing minstrel,Pa Benjamin Aderounmu better known as ‘‘Kokoro’’. The Public presentation and launch of a re-produced audio-visual collection of songs titled Igi Araba by yesterday brought to life Pa Benjamin’s unfulfilled dream which was to release an album.
The Lagos state governor, Babtunde Fashola, who was represented by the Commisioner for Home Affairs and Culture, Honourable Tunde Balogun called Kokoro a “national cultural treasure of inestimable value to the state”, that “his never say-die spirit has been a source of inspiration”, and that it was in the interest of the state government to recognize and celebrate him while alive, because “it is in celebrating you that we are celebrating ourselves.”
In the words of Governor Fashola, ‘‘In tandem with the philosophy of this administration of encouraging public Private Partnership (PPP), we have joined Keem Communications in this laudable initiative to present and launch the compilation works of ‘‘Kokoro-IGI ARABA’’for the listening public, lovers of good music, the younger generations, upcoming ones, old fans of the musician I would call ‘‘the old schools’’ and indeed for posterity.
According to Fashola, ‘‘Kokoro’’, though blind, he was a man who contributed in no mean way to the promotion of Yoruba culture and tradition. ‘‘A man who refused to be limited by life’s adversity and proved through his talent that disability was not synonymous with inability, deserves to be remembered and celebrated.’’ He said
The event which took place at the Shell Hall, Muson Centre, Onikan, Lagos was chaired by Oba Akiolu of Lagos while Chief Kessington Adebutu served as Father of the day and Chief Launcher respectively. Other notable dignitaries who graced the occasion were Erelu Dosunmu, Bisade Ologunde (Lagbaja), Pa Chris Ajilo and Dele Abiodun.
According to the organiser of the event, Keem Communications Limited, Mr Yomi Opakunle disclosed that a certain percentage of the proceeds of the launch will go to the family of the deceased minstrel while another will be donated to some charity homes in Kokoro's name.
Among highlights of the colourful epoch making event were recognition and presentation of award plaques to Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu as the‘‘Grand Pillar of Soccour’’, with Governor Babatunde Fashola being honoured with the award ‘‘Pillar of Soccour’’ while Bisade Ologunde popularly known as Lagbaja bagged the award ‘‘Pillar of Soccour’’ respectively.
Barely a month before celebrating his 84th birthday which would have come up on 25th February 2009, Pa Benjamin Aderonmu, popularly named ‘KOKORO’ and also known in recent times until early 2008 as “The Homeless Blind Minstrel” died at the age of 83.
family in Owo (his father was a prince), a town in the western region of Nigeria, Kokoro passed on to glory on Sunday 25th January in Lagos. He was survived by his wife, Caroline, and two children.
Thursday, January 21, 2010
Contra-Bassist Bright comes alive with Rhythm and Grooves.
Contra-Bassist Bright comes alive with Rhythm and Grooves.
Adedayo Adejobi
Bright Gain is one name that does not readily ring a bell in the circular world, but jazz enthusiasts would really attest to his nimble fingers, fast paced sound and dexterity on the bass guitar
Mentioning and acknowledging relevant and notable names of highly revered, though now internationally relocated and recognized Jazz Instrumentalists, profiles of people like Fela’s lead saxophonist, Seyi clegg, renowned pianist and producer Sola Raji formerly with Jazz Diva, Yinka Davies, Texas based Pianist and internationally acclaimed producer Dapo Torimiro of the now defunct KUSH group, Wole Oni, Nigeria’s first contemporary jazz drummer, Ray Jehovy, Jazz guitarist and Agboola Shadare amongst a very competitive few readily come to mind. . Nigeria’s fastest most experienced and widely read Contra-bassit whose name readily matches the above list and still stands very relevant in Nigeria’s present jazz history is a jazz lover’s delight.
Since arriving Lagos in 1995, Lagos based Nigeria’s best Bass player, jazz composer and promoter Bright Gain has been a force to be reckoned with. Born Sagbamah Bright Gain in 1973, Bright Gain has performed and recorded with numerous Artiste such as international flutist and philharmonic composer, Tee Mac Omatsola Iseli, Jazz Vocalist and composer ,Yinka Davies, French pianist, Manuk Hanchadrurian, Greek guitarist Sotiris Papadopoulos, e.t.c. As a jazz promoter, Bright Gain has organized different classic jazz programs attended by very important dignitaries like ”Jazzmind Jazz Fest" at the Muson Center in 2004, ”Jazify the Lord with Bright Gain “a quarterly jazz program. An award winning Jazz Artiste CMA Jazz Artiste of the year 2006.
Bright who plays the bass, a lead, melody playing instrument with dexterity is influenced stylistically by various samples of Smooth jazz, contemporary jazz R&B, funk and pop has had great success balancing the artistic with the commercial especially in Nigeria where jazz appreciation was terrible, though fast emerging and spreading quickly now as the genre is witnessing the much needed patronage it so deserves.
Sagbamah, Nigeria’s most revered fastest and most experienced jazz bass player, a master of the hollow body instrument in a recently concluded Muson concert Jazz Festival performed slow tempo ballads and walking basslines with three fingers while he used the more nimble tips of the fingers to play fast-moving solo passages and pluck lightly for quiet tunes. He seems to have mastered the use of amplifications as he could accentuate and de- accentuates certain bass frequencies responsiveness such that there was less finger noise.
Bright Gain, whose use of the technique was often highly syncopated and virtuosic, sometimes interpolated two, three, four, or more slaps in between notes of the bass line. He played rapid, syncopated and rhythmic bass lines in coordination with the drummer who played heavy groove. In his song titled ‘‘Lily’s Song’’, the bass guitarist played a more lengthy expansive and improvised solo role with a few short bass breaks during the concert. Also while performing other songs he made regular use of the upper notes of the chord, 9ths 11ths 13ths. The semitone approach to the chord note from above in addition to the lead from below. This, of course, led to chromatic chord movements in the harmonies, complicating the sequence but supplying smooth forward momentum appealing to the hear and the discerning mind. The phrasing was 'jagged' and 'angular' and full of fast triplets and sixteenths, the melodic line was spiced with unexpected accents.
Bright who plays the original customized modern six strings 24 frets Fender bass plays same with a distinct sound because the string buzzes against the wood and is somewhat muted because the sounding portion of the string is in direct contact with the flesh of the player's finger.
The bass allows players to use the expressive devices of glissando, vibrato and microtonal intonations such as quarter tones and just intonation in performances, according to the type of material he’s performing.
Looking through Gain’s previous work, there seems to be a process of coming to terms, a personal journey. In evidence, given the stylings of his previous albums, Stranger On The Sofa (2006) seems, in comparison, even given it’s moments of introspection, more documentary, more detached and lighter in it’s tone.
Yeah, I think I’ve sort of settled a few of my demons... wrestling with demons. I think I decided to take them out for a drink. Therefore I’m a lucky lad, I think, because you don’t really get the chance to do that kind of work in music. I think that’s saved for other areas of art, like abstract painting. People go like “That’s a guy with issues” and then they go off. But I made this the genre I wanted to work in and I was able to put things out that for me meant a certain coming to terms with and a certain putting things to sleep. I think Stranger is the beginning of a kind of work that, still, with an ironic eye, I hope, warms to the world.
Most jazz bassists specialize in either the double bass or the electric bass; in some cases, though, performers achieve a high level of virtuosity on both instruments, But for Sagbama Bright Gain whether accompanying or soloing, or playing on a double bass or an electric bass he usually aims to create a rhythmic drive and "time feel" that creates a sense of "swing" and "groove".
Because an unamplified double bass is generally the quietest instrument in a jazz band, many players like Bright as he is popularly called in the Jazz circle use the traditional slap style, a vigorous playing technique which involves slapping and pulling the strings so that they make a rhythmic "slap" sound against the fingerboard between the main notes of the bassline producing a snare drum-like percussive sound. The slap style cuts through the sound of a band better than simply plucking the strings, and allows the bass to be more easily heard, thus creating a stronger and solid tone.
Also speaking on the public perception on Nigerians towards jazz’ although many jazz listeners group smooth and contemporary jazz together, the genres are slightly different. Smooth jazz is generally considered background music played in bars in order to create an enticing late-night, non-alcoholic social atmosphere where conversation is encouraged. Whereas "straight-ahead" contemporary jazz is seen as demanding the listener's undivided attention.’’ Sagbamah said.
Sabgamah blames the decline in popularity of the smooth jazz format on a variety of factors, including lack of compelling new music, over-reliance on instrumental cover versions of pop songs similar to the mostly patronised reports showing lower ratings returns for smooth jazz stations than the traditional diary system had. Lack of revenue and the genre not being viable during the current economic crisis have also been cited as reasons. Sagbamah,a purist of the format also feels that the smooth jazz interpretation has strayed too far from its roots in contemporary jazz and new age music by over-relying on soft urban vocals, with R&B artists such as Beyonce Knowles and Aretha Franklin now staples of many smooth-jazz playlists.
Though the jazz genre is less common in Nigeria, possibly due to a relative lack of high profile mainstream jazz artists, while he also said new and innovative jazz musical works released by Nigerian jazz players has largely failed to gain airplay. He also noted that jazz until now did lack funding while other genres receive sponsorship.
Bass playing for Bright goes beyond hitting the notes, but he defines same by the instrumental approach to the voice, where he ‘‘the singer’’ matches the instruments in their stylistic approach to the lyrics, improvised or otherwise, or through scat singing. This according to bright the use of nonsensical meaningless non-morphemic syllables to imitate the sound of instruments. ‘’I don't feel like I'm singing, I feel like I'm playing the bass’’. He noted.
Compared to other great jazz players who scat- sing, Sagbama has an expansive vocal range that can hit any octave. Where Sagbama's genius lay, however, was his impeccable timing, nuanced phrasing, and emotional immediacy, qualities admired by myriad jazz lovers.
Being a producer- making a remarkable album that proceeded to win him an award for making the “ Jazz Record Of The Year”2006, probably attributable to the close relationship between his singing style and his bass playing- melodic and chromatically fluent, with a touch of blues influence, the emphasis on sensuous, soft vocal lines. which stand to date as significant developments in the field of fusion jazz in Nigeria. Bright’s approach to Vocal Jazz included Latin Jazz, using a ‘percussive’ element in his work. Gain has the remarkable ability to turn concerts into large-scale ‘workshops’, where the audience plays an integral role.
Describing his music, Bright says “I really like when people kick up their heels and go crazy.”
Bright who leads his jazz band comprising of Pianist Ini Ukoh and drummer John Osadolor combine Jazz, Rhythm and blues, gospel and soul arrangements, thus setting the standard for contemporary jazz contemporary groups in Nigeria. He also focuses on more ‘percussive’ elements in their music, going as far as to create ‘vocally produced bluesy vibrato instrumental jazz’ on a whim.
Sagbama, who, aside from performing, give jazz clinics at schools and universities.
Adedayo Adejobi
Bright Gain is one name that does not readily ring a bell in the circular world, but jazz enthusiasts would really attest to his nimble fingers, fast paced sound and dexterity on the bass guitar
Mentioning and acknowledging relevant and notable names of highly revered, though now internationally relocated and recognized Jazz Instrumentalists, profiles of people like Fela’s lead saxophonist, Seyi clegg, renowned pianist and producer Sola Raji formerly with Jazz Diva, Yinka Davies, Texas based Pianist and internationally acclaimed producer Dapo Torimiro of the now defunct KUSH group, Wole Oni, Nigeria’s first contemporary jazz drummer, Ray Jehovy, Jazz guitarist and Agboola Shadare amongst a very competitive few readily come to mind. . Nigeria’s fastest most experienced and widely read Contra-bassit whose name readily matches the above list and still stands very relevant in Nigeria’s present jazz history is a jazz lover’s delight.
Since arriving Lagos in 1995, Lagos based Nigeria’s best Bass player, jazz composer and promoter Bright Gain has been a force to be reckoned with. Born Sagbamah Bright Gain in 1973, Bright Gain has performed and recorded with numerous Artiste such as international flutist and philharmonic composer, Tee Mac Omatsola Iseli, Jazz Vocalist and composer ,Yinka Davies, French pianist, Manuk Hanchadrurian, Greek guitarist Sotiris Papadopoulos, e.t.c. As a jazz promoter, Bright Gain has organized different classic jazz programs attended by very important dignitaries like ”Jazzmind Jazz Fest" at the Muson Center in 2004, ”Jazify the Lord with Bright Gain “a quarterly jazz program. An award winning Jazz Artiste CMA Jazz Artiste of the year 2006.
Bright who plays the bass, a lead, melody playing instrument with dexterity is influenced stylistically by various samples of Smooth jazz, contemporary jazz R&B, funk and pop has had great success balancing the artistic with the commercial especially in Nigeria where jazz appreciation was terrible, though fast emerging and spreading quickly now as the genre is witnessing the much needed patronage it so deserves.
Sagbamah, Nigeria’s most revered fastest and most experienced jazz bass player, a master of the hollow body instrument in a recently concluded Muson concert Jazz Festival performed slow tempo ballads and walking basslines with three fingers while he used the more nimble tips of the fingers to play fast-moving solo passages and pluck lightly for quiet tunes. He seems to have mastered the use of amplifications as he could accentuate and de- accentuates certain bass frequencies responsiveness such that there was less finger noise.
Bright Gain, whose use of the technique was often highly syncopated and virtuosic, sometimes interpolated two, three, four, or more slaps in between notes of the bass line. He played rapid, syncopated and rhythmic bass lines in coordination with the drummer who played heavy groove. In his song titled ‘‘Lily’s Song’’, the bass guitarist played a more lengthy expansive and improvised solo role with a few short bass breaks during the concert. Also while performing other songs he made regular use of the upper notes of the chord, 9ths 11ths 13ths. The semitone approach to the chord note from above in addition to the lead from below. This, of course, led to chromatic chord movements in the harmonies, complicating the sequence but supplying smooth forward momentum appealing to the hear and the discerning mind. The phrasing was 'jagged' and 'angular' and full of fast triplets and sixteenths, the melodic line was spiced with unexpected accents.
Bright who plays the original customized modern six strings 24 frets Fender bass plays same with a distinct sound because the string buzzes against the wood and is somewhat muted because the sounding portion of the string is in direct contact with the flesh of the player's finger.
The bass allows players to use the expressive devices of glissando, vibrato and microtonal intonations such as quarter tones and just intonation in performances, according to the type of material he’s performing.
Looking through Gain’s previous work, there seems to be a process of coming to terms, a personal journey. In evidence, given the stylings of his previous albums, Stranger On The Sofa (2006) seems, in comparison, even given it’s moments of introspection, more documentary, more detached and lighter in it’s tone.
Yeah, I think I’ve sort of settled a few of my demons... wrestling with demons. I think I decided to take them out for a drink. Therefore I’m a lucky lad, I think, because you don’t really get the chance to do that kind of work in music. I think that’s saved for other areas of art, like abstract painting. People go like “That’s a guy with issues” and then they go off. But I made this the genre I wanted to work in and I was able to put things out that for me meant a certain coming to terms with and a certain putting things to sleep. I think Stranger is the beginning of a kind of work that, still, with an ironic eye, I hope, warms to the world.
Most jazz bassists specialize in either the double bass or the electric bass; in some cases, though, performers achieve a high level of virtuosity on both instruments, But for Sagbama Bright Gain whether accompanying or soloing, or playing on a double bass or an electric bass he usually aims to create a rhythmic drive and "time feel" that creates a sense of "swing" and "groove".
Because an unamplified double bass is generally the quietest instrument in a jazz band, many players like Bright as he is popularly called in the Jazz circle use the traditional slap style, a vigorous playing technique which involves slapping and pulling the strings so that they make a rhythmic "slap" sound against the fingerboard between the main notes of the bassline producing a snare drum-like percussive sound. The slap style cuts through the sound of a band better than simply plucking the strings, and allows the bass to be more easily heard, thus creating a stronger and solid tone.
Also speaking on the public perception on Nigerians towards jazz’ although many jazz listeners group smooth and contemporary jazz together, the genres are slightly different. Smooth jazz is generally considered background music played in bars in order to create an enticing late-night, non-alcoholic social atmosphere where conversation is encouraged. Whereas "straight-ahead" contemporary jazz is seen as demanding the listener's undivided attention.’’ Sagbamah said.
Sabgamah blames the decline in popularity of the smooth jazz format on a variety of factors, including lack of compelling new music, over-reliance on instrumental cover versions of pop songs similar to the mostly patronised reports showing lower ratings returns for smooth jazz stations than the traditional diary system had. Lack of revenue and the genre not being viable during the current economic crisis have also been cited as reasons. Sagbamah,a purist of the format also feels that the smooth jazz interpretation has strayed too far from its roots in contemporary jazz and new age music by over-relying on soft urban vocals, with R&B artists such as Beyonce Knowles and Aretha Franklin now staples of many smooth-jazz playlists.
Though the jazz genre is less common in Nigeria, possibly due to a relative lack of high profile mainstream jazz artists, while he also said new and innovative jazz musical works released by Nigerian jazz players has largely failed to gain airplay. He also noted that jazz until now did lack funding while other genres receive sponsorship.
Bass playing for Bright goes beyond hitting the notes, but he defines same by the instrumental approach to the voice, where he ‘‘the singer’’ matches the instruments in their stylistic approach to the lyrics, improvised or otherwise, or through scat singing. This according to bright the use of nonsensical meaningless non-morphemic syllables to imitate the sound of instruments. ‘’I don't feel like I'm singing, I feel like I'm playing the bass’’. He noted.
Compared to other great jazz players who scat- sing, Sagbama has an expansive vocal range that can hit any octave. Where Sagbama's genius lay, however, was his impeccable timing, nuanced phrasing, and emotional immediacy, qualities admired by myriad jazz lovers.
Being a producer- making a remarkable album that proceeded to win him an award for making the “ Jazz Record Of The Year”2006, probably attributable to the close relationship between his singing style and his bass playing- melodic and chromatically fluent, with a touch of blues influence, the emphasis on sensuous, soft vocal lines. which stand to date as significant developments in the field of fusion jazz in Nigeria. Bright’s approach to Vocal Jazz included Latin Jazz, using a ‘percussive’ element in his work. Gain has the remarkable ability to turn concerts into large-scale ‘workshops’, where the audience plays an integral role.
Describing his music, Bright says “I really like when people kick up their heels and go crazy.”
Bright who leads his jazz band comprising of Pianist Ini Ukoh and drummer John Osadolor combine Jazz, Rhythm and blues, gospel and soul arrangements, thus setting the standard for contemporary jazz contemporary groups in Nigeria. He also focuses on more ‘percussive’ elements in their music, going as far as to create ‘vocally produced bluesy vibrato instrumental jazz’ on a whim.
Sagbama, who, aside from performing, give jazz clinics at schools and universities.
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