Entertainment
Wizkid Rejects N25m Fee For International Show
Nigerian artist Wizkid has confirmed that money is not a problem to him, after reports claimed that he was offered (£50,000) N25m for an international show but rejected it saying his brand is not cheap. It had been rumored that Wizkid has been charging £100,000 for shows outside Nigeria for sometime now.
The deal was said to have been brokered by his international management “Disturbing London” affiliated to United Kingdom Pop star Tinie Tempah. Although Wizkid hasn’t said anything concerning the rumour yet, the news has gone viral in the social media.
Born on July 16th 1989, Ayo Balogum also known as Wizkid recorded his first album at the age of 11, the album was produced by one of the most celebrated music producers in the country-OJB Jezreel and it was a 7-track album that was released for his church in Lagos.
The 2006 album launch was well received by Ayo Balogun’s parents, friends and other artistes. Ayo Balogun’s growing passion for music and the use of his God given talent inspired him to get back into the studio and perfect his music acts. It was in 2006 that Ayo Balogun dropped his initial stage name – Lil Prinz and he began working with some of the best artistes in Nigeria today, these include Naeto C and Ikechukwu.
Since 2006, Wizkid songs enjoyed continuous radio plays while himself, enjoyed collaboration with the best artistes in Nigeria, but it was not until 2009 when this young talent got his first major break in the music industry-according to Wizkid twitter. His collaboration with one of Nigeria’s best rappers and MCs-MI Abaga, on “fast money fast cars” track drew major attention to Wizzy’s unique voice and style.
Ayo Balogun is also a song writer. A side being featured by so many established artists, Ayo Balogun also featured in several TV commercials, the most recent is the Pepsi Co-advert which also featured one of the best female performers – Tiwa Savage. His first TV commercial was “Turn by Turn” by Kel’s which became Barcelo’s radio jungle.
He signed a multi-million naira deal with the Empire Mates entertainment (EME), a recording label owned by versatile performer and one of the best R&B artistes cum producer and manager-Bank W, in 2009.
He has continued to release hit songs with EME records since 2009, his music career has gone beyond the chores of Nigerian borders especially with his numerous international stage performances and collaboration with international artistes such as Akon, Kardinal official and Young Jeezy to mention just a few.
In 2010, Ayo Balogun fully broke into the music industry with the release of his smash hit singles, “Don’t dull, “Holla at your boy,” and “Tease me.” Ayo Balogun’s Debut album – “Superstar” was released in 2011 and in June 2011 also, he performed several sold-out concerts in Nigeria, UK and the United States.
Wizkid’s Biography is not complete without making mention of some of his numerous awards. Ayo Balogun won the 2012 till date, he has 2010 till date, he has also won several other numerous awards in Nigeria, South Africa, the UK and the US.
The Lennox K. Black International Prize for Excellence in Medicine is a prestigious accolade awarded by Thomas Jefferson University, recognising outstanding individuals.
The actress was honoured with the Lennox K. Black International Prize for Excellence in Medicine by Thomas Jefferson University in America in recognition of her outstanding contributions to social activism and impact through her work.
This remarkable achievement, they said, highlights her dedication to societal well-being and marks her as the first Black recipient of this distinguished award.
The Tide Entertainment reports that the Lennox K. Black International Prize for Excellence in Medicine is a prestigious accolade awarded by Thomas Jefferson University, recognising individuals who have made significant contributions to the medical field, promoting scientific discovery and advancements.
Named after Lennox K. Black, a Canadian manufacturing executive known for his philanthropic efforts and service on various boards, including Thomas Jefferson University, the prize celebrates excellence in medical innovation and global contribution to health and medicine.
The actress is renowned for her activism and impactful work in areas concerning women’s health and rights, including her efforts to combat issues like fistula and gender-based violence.
According to the award organisers she has been instrumental in bringing about social change through her films and campaigns. They added that her work extends beyond borders, affecting lives and policies internationally, embodying the spirit of the Lennox K. Black International Prize.
On receiving the award, Stephanie expressed her gratitude and reaffirmed her commitment to using her platform for social good.
“This recognition goes beyond me; it is for all the women and girls fighting for a healthier, safer world. It amplifies our message and our work. It strengthens my resolve to continue advocating for gender equality, social justice, and improved maternal and reproductive health in Africa,” she said
Susan Aldunge, Interim President of Thomas Jefferson University, admired the actress, saying, ‘‘Your ability to educate while humbly addressing the cultural obstacles impeding progress for young women is commendable. Your intelligent, personal take on the necessary human rights changes has deeply impacted all lucky to encounter you. Congratulations once more on this well-deserved award and the acknowledgement of your efforts.’”
Ms Aldunge further said that Thomas Jefferson University, a leader in medical education and research, hosts the award to underscore its mission of improving lives through innovation in health care.
‘‘The university is proud to honour Stephanie Linus, whose work aligns with Jefferson’s values of creativity, collaboration, and compassion in pursuing excellence in medicine and beyond.
“Awarding the Lennox K. Black International Prize to Stephanie Linus celebrates her achievements and signals a broader recognition of the importance of social activism in medicine and health,” she added.
“Her pioneering efforts continue to inspire and effect change, paving the way for a healthier, more equitable world’’.
Stephanie, who was named Chairperson of the Nigerian Official Selection Committee (NOSC) for the Best International Feature Film (IFF) category of the Oscars in August 2023, is best known for her 2015 advocacy movie ‘Dry’, which tells the story of a 13-year-old girl whose parents marry her off to a 60-year-old man, with devastating consequences.
Ilebaye’s revelation came just after Phyna had publicly called out the organizers for withholding some of her prizes.
Phyna, who revealed this to Newsmen insinuated that Ilebaye broke the gender code by announcing that she got her full prize money.
She also stressed that she would continue to demand for her balance, stating that she worked hard for the money during the show’s 72-day duration.
“I believe I should at least get what I worked so hard for 72 days. You all suddenly remembered your alert screenshots and IG Live………… Common……one among others is 1BTC which is over 80m in today’s market.
“To those who got their money in full
I’m happy for you. As a poor man’s child, let me ask for my money and other items remaining.,” She added.
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