DE

C/

JA

N E

DIT

ION

THE CORE OF AFRICAN FASHION, MUSIC, FILM & CULTURE

www.afropulp.com

FREE COPYLi

ke u

s on

face

book

.com

/Afr

opul

pFo

llow

us

on t

witt

er @

Afr

opul

p

Abrantee BoatengChoice FM’s Golden Boy

Guba Award2011Screen NationAwards 2011 Sarkodie Live

in London Ghana Uk

Fashion

2Face rocks

London’s 02!

Beverley De-Gale

Honoured Once MoreAnti-Crime Scheme

Gets A Boost!T-Pain Live in Ghana

AfroPulp Team

Acting Editor Gloria Apofo-Baubeng

ContributorsEva Newlove Sylvia Anim-Otchere (Fashion Stylist)

Creative Director /PublisherYaw Osafo-Ansong (Alan - Tee Jnr )

PhotographyAlan - Tee JnrTomas SonoikiBen AVD

Promotions Manager Eva Newlove

Marketing Manager Yaw AkuffoAcknowledgements

ameyawdebrah.com www.nigeriafilms.comwww.myjoyonline.com ww.peacefmonline.comwww.ghanamusic.com

Design and Printed by MindQwest StudiosTel: 0208 755 5815/07735 349 673

All Correspondence to be to the Editor AfroPulp Magazine, Suit 104 Legacy Centre. Hanworth Trading Estate. Hampton Road West. Feltham, London TW13 6DH

For Advertising Tel: 0208 755 5815Mobile: 07534 718 534sales@afropulp.com

Afropulp Magazine is published monthly by Afropulp Media Ltd. Nothing in this Magazine can be reproduced in whole or in part without the written permission of publisher. Images and any other material submintted for publication are sent at owner’s risk and while every care is taken neither Afropulp or its agents accept any liability for loss or damage. Although Afropulp has endeavoured to ensure that all information in the magazine is correct, prices and details may be subject to change. Afropulp is a trademark of Afropulp Media Ltd.

Afronews

4 AfroPulp

Beverley De-Gale Honoured Once More

THE CO-FOUNDER of the African Caribbean Leukaemia Trust (ACLT) was honoured with a Special Inspirational Award at a recent award ceremony.

Beverley De-Gale, who has, for years, tirelessly campaigned for blood and bone marrow donors from black and mixed raced communities to

come forward, was celebrated at the Inspirational Awards for Women last Friday (Oct 7).Beverley, whose son Daniel died from Leukaemia in 2008, said she was “truly honoured” to receive the award.

“My son Daniel is the inspiration behind the foundation of the African Caribbean Leukaemia Trust 15 years ago, and continues to be so today. Daniel’s passion for life in spite of his illness, gave me the drive to do the best I could to provide hope to leukaemia sufferers everywhere. I’m truly honoured to receive this award,” she said.

The awards celebrate the achievements of inspirational women from diverse backgrounds who have inspired a nation and projected positive images of

women.Beverley founded the ACLT with partner Orin Lewis in 1996 - three years after her son, Daniel was diagnosed with leukaemia - in a bid to increase the number of ethnic minorities on the UK bone marrow and blood donation registers.

Daniel became the first black person in the UK to receive a bone marrow transplant from an unrelated donor in 1999, but sadly passed away on October 8, 2011 to an unrelated health illness.

The award was yet another honour for Beverley, who last week (Oct 4) received an Order of the British Empire (OBE) from Princess Anne at Windsor Palace.

Source:

VOIC

E-O

NLI

NE.

CO

.UK

Afronews

AfroPulp 5

Dentaa named in Future 100 Young Social Entrepreneurs for 2011Dentaa, founder and Managing Director of Speak To Dentaa, and founder of Ghana UK Based Achievement (GUBA) Awards is announced as one of the Future 100 Young Social Entrepreneurs of the Year on Social Enterprise Day during Global Entrepreneurship Week 2011.Global Entrepreneurship Week is a worldwide movement of entrepreneurial people, with millions unleashing their enterprising talents and turning their ideas into reality.It began as Enterprise Week in the UK back in 2004. When news of the phenomenal success of Enterprise Week in the UK spread the globe, lots of other countries got excited about the potential of running similar initiatives in their own countries. Since its inception, Global Entrepreneurship Week has spread to 115 countries, with nearly 24,000 organisations planning more than 37,000 activities.The Future 100 Awards were first launched in 2008 to recognise and profile young entrepreneurs running businesses, which have a triple bottom line. The definition of a triple bottom line, is a business that addresses people, planet and profit. They have a strong

commercial foundation as well as a significant social and environmental impact.The Future 100 Awards recognises the success of young entrepreneurs aged 18-35 who demonstrate entrepreneurial flair and innovation in progressing a responsible business venture.GUBA Awards is a non-profit Business & Innovation Awards instituted to celebrate people who provide services, entertainment, sports and Business in the Ghanaian community in the UK. This is an opportunity for us to come together for one night in order to reflect on their achievements and receive a recognition and reward. Our goal is to acknowledge the hard work of local businesses by identifying innovation, improvement and Quality of work.Dentaa said, “I am overwhelmed with joy for this achievement and I appreciate the recognition.”Founder of Striding Out and organiser of the Future100 awards, Heather Wilkinson said: “The future of our world is in the hands of individuals who are committed to generating commercial and ethical returns. Challenging economic times can offer

opportunities to question the way we operate as both a business community and a society. We have a history of profiling the ‘Future 100 young entrepreneurs who are changing the face of everyday business and improving commerce’s impact on the wider world.”The Future 100 awards encourages and rewards extraordinary vision, ethical business practice and social responsibility. They aim to showcase businesses that offer innovative and sustainable solutions to social problems. The Future 100 Awards is organized by Striding Out www.stridingout.co.uk , a social enterprise which is committed to supporting the development and growth of young and ethical entrepreneurs

D-Black gives back to deprived children this Christmas

Rapper, D-Black is actively campaigning for the support of the less fortunate

and hospitalized children this coming Christmas season. On Boxing Day, December 26, the rapper and his entire Black Avenue Muzik team will make a donation to the kids at the children’s ward of the Ridge Hospital and the Korlebu Teaching Hospital. There will also be donations to hundreds of children at selected orphanages in Accra towards their education, growth and generally to give them the experience of what it means to have a merry Christmas.D-Black comments, “As we celebrate the Christmas festive season, we should remember that there are people out there in Ghana suffering, especially children. The little we can afford to spare

to help a needy child in our society could go a long way to help a child have a better and brighter future. Everyone in life needs a helping hand one way or the other, so we shouldn’t hesitate to if we can.” “This past year, I’ve been blessed by God greatly in many ways from my music career down to keeping my family safe and I am tremendously grateful. This is my own small way of showing appreciation, my widow’s mite,” he added. The donation is ahead of the highly anticipated finale of his nationwide tour ‘The Yes Boss Tour’ in Accra, December 30.

AM

EYA

W D

EBRA

H

Afronews

AfroPulp 7

Samini wins Channel O nod for reggae, Dbanj pulls a no-show!

Anti-Crime Scheme Gets A Boost!

Ghana’s dancehall artist, Samini won the 2011 Channel O Music Video Award for Most Gifted Reggae/Dancehall Video ward , Friday night at Sandton Convention Center in Johannesburg, South Africa.Fellow Ghanaian rapper, D-Black however missed out on the only other nomination for Ghana, the Most Gifted African West Video which went to Nigeria’s Naeto C. Nigerian superstar, D’Banj wasn’t present at the ceremony to pick up his Special Recognition Award. According to some reports, upon getting to the airport to travel to South Africa, D’Banj and his crew discovered that the awards organizers had gotten him an economy ticket, instead of a business ticket because he had been placed on a

waiting list for a business class ticket but the flights were fully booked for days. So he refused to get onto the flight. Thus, Channel O representatives later went to his Lekki home to record an acceptance speech which was aired at the award ceremony. Dbanj also walked away with the Most Gifted Male Video for ‘ Mr. Endowed (Remix)’ which featured hip hop star, Snoop Dogg.The night saw exciting themed mash-up performances from the likes of , Tiwa Savage, Cabo Snoop, DJ Cleo, Ice Prince, Flavour, Theo, Chuli Chana and others. The ceremony was hosted by Channel O star, Dineo and Nigerian singer, Banky W was hosted the event, performed on the night and also won an award.

APIONEERING anti-street crime project called ‘Get the Message Out’ has won the backing of West Midlands police officers who are giving £3,000 towards the launch of the scheme. The aim is to get youngsters to create their own anti-crime message focusing on local young people using digital photography, radio and music production equipment at the African Millennium Centre (ACMC) in Winson Green, Birmingham.

The ACMC is also the home of popular community station NewStyle radio,

which is used by local police as a way of forging links with the community.The money has been made available through the Police Partnership Fund. Some of the funding will go towards creating a radio advertising campaign encouraging youngsters to lead a crime-free life.

Titus Dawo, ACMC project manager, said: “We’re very grateful to our partners at West Midlands Police for helping us to introduce young people to the wonderful world of digital media.”

“A key aim of the project is to work with youngsters in order to bring out the creativity that exists within. Some individuals are never given the opportunity to realise this creativity and subsequently channel their energy in the wrong direction – namely street crime and anti-social behaviour.”Sergeant Ifty Ahmed of the Soho

Neighbourhood Team, who helped to secure the funding, said: “We have a fantastic relationship with staff and visitors at the ACMC and hope this funding will offer a better future for young people.”

Inspector Lloyd Davies added: “Since coming into NewStyle Radio for a regular slot on a Tuesday, I feel we have helped to build a good rapport with the community. It’s not just about delivering police messages, but giving local people the chance to talk to us and ask us about local issues.”

Phil Murphy, chairman of the ACMC said: “This funding is very welcome and will enable us to work closely with young people at ACMC. We’re very pleased to have such an excellent working relationship with local police and meet with them on a regular basis.”

For Advertising

Tel: 0208 755 5815 Mobile: 07534 718 534

VOIC

E-O

NLI

NE.

CO

.UK

AfroFashion

8 AfroPulp

WO

RDS

BY S

YLV

IA A

NIM

-OTC

HER

E

The 1st Annual Ghana UK Fashion ShowAfter all the hype and buzz created around a particular event that was to take place on the ever- approaching 27th November and having witnessed the frantic rush to get models dressed and looking to their clients’ desired look on this date, the first annual Ghana UK Fashion Show was finally upon us and commenced to an eagerly awaiting audience . As the bar began to fill up, the vibe of anticipation and excitement was in the air. You could sense that this was a start of something big and we were all a part of history in the making. And we were not left disappointed

The fashion show which was organised by Ghanaian Divas took place at the sophisticated RS Lounge in London which had been fashionably transformed to accommodate this event. UK-based Ghanaian designers such as Jessique Design, Cedi Designs, House of Adjeiwaa, , Adopted Culture, Yaa Ohenewa Textiles, Bubushiiky, Gifted, Me Firi Ghana, Sasaique Albliz and Yaa Ataa Bags all came together to showcase their stylishly

electrifying creations.The models strutted down the catwalk to carefully chosen Ghanaian beats, bringing their designers’ creations to life amid bright lights and cameras.

Once the main event was brought to a close, the lounge was transformed back to its original state allowing all in attendance to mingle, network and get their groove on. With some of the top Ghanaian DJs such as Lord Sega and the Specialist Crew on the ones and twos, the crowd were entertained by the eccentric Osofo Marfia who was hosting and even an impromptu Azonto dance off! I can honestly say the first annual Ghana UK Fashion show was a resounding success and although the show had a few minor setbacks, it is an event that is here to stay. If I were you I’d start planning what you are going to wear for the 2nd Annual Ghana UK Fashion. Summer is just around the corner!

AfroEvents

AfroPulp 9AfroPulp 9

AfroFashion

AfroPulp 9

PIC

TURE

S B

Y BE

N A

VD

AfroEvents

AfroPulp 11AfroPulp 11

AfroFashion

AfroPulp 11

“Kwabena klassics” by Andrew Aubrey Osafo

A clothing line made of authentic wax prints from the country of Ghana in the West Africa mixed with other fabrics such as silks, chiffons and velvets in making silhouettes sophisticated and debonair fair for both him and her. All of which started being influenced by Andy’s mother who had her very own senses of classic style. Slowly but surely Andy has proved that African prints are not only good for dashikis but could be for any style and season as the occasion calls for. The different patterns and the color schemes Influences his different styles and trends. The collection is also all season conducive.

Kwabena has been showcased in the past on the runways of United states and the United Kingdom including representing Accra the capital city of Ghana for the Chicago Sister Cities World Fashion shows duing Fashion Focus over the years.

The collection is a combination of intricate vintage fused with contemporary making each very one of a kind piece.The collection ranges from everyday casual pieces such as skirts, dresses and jackets and also accessories like neckties ,pocket squares head bands and scarves to all the way red carpet even Bridals. These definitely makes fashion do statement.

Take a peak of the collection on website www.kwabena.net and dare to be your own individual.

www.kwabena.netTel: 773-501-5721Fax: 773-501-5721 kwabenaklassics@gmail.com

AfroEvents

12 AfroPulp12 AfroPulp

GUBA Awards 2011Award winners, nominees, organizers and the general public have been left stunned by the immense success of the 2011 Ghanaian UK-Based Achievements (GUBA) awards. The star-studded event brought together Ghanaians and non-Ghanaians living in the UK from all walks of life together in a colourful blend of glitz and glamour.

The 2nd annual event of the awards which was instituted to recognize, celebrate and encourage outstanding British-based Ghanaian achievers was held at the luxurious Park Plaza Riverbank Hotel overlooking Thames Embarkment at the heart of London.

The big winners on the night included Blacks Stars striker Asamoah Gyan, who won the Best African Sports Personality of the year. The Best Business went to Tullow Oil whiles the Best Print Journalist went to Joanna Abeyie of the Cosmopolitan Magazine. Kwame Sefa Kayi took home the Special Achievement Award for his popular Ghanaian morning show. A Lifetime Achievement Award went to Lord Paul Boateng, Britain’s first Black Cabinet Minister and the first British Ghanaian to sit in the House of Lords. Lord Boateng expressed his deepest gratitude and advised members of the community to

continue to “thrive for greatness” Director Charles Thompson, MBE, paid tribute to Lord Boateng, describing him as an “inspiration to many” The event was co-hosted by Ras Kwame, a former BBC 1Xtra radio presenter and Ellen Thomas, a recognizable British-African actress. Together, they delivered a sterling, energy infused performance throughout the evening.

Among an array of stars on hand to present awards were Anton Ferdinand, a British professional footballer, UK-based Ghanaian rapper Sway, and Ghanaian actress Nadia Buari. Others were Menaye Muntari, Lethal Bizzle, Hugh Quarshie, Jeanette Kwakye, Jimmy Akingbola and GUBA patron John Painstil.

Other awards included Best Money Transfer which went to Money Gram and a Special Achievement Award went to “Coz Ov Moni” for being the First pidgin musical. Category winners were selected by public vote from the sectors of Business and Enterprise, Popular culture and Community Contribution. The Recognition awards were however, handpicked by the GUBA collective.

PIC

TURE

S B

Y A

LAN

- T

EE J

NR

& T

OM

SO

NO

IKI

AfroEvents

AfroPulp 13AfroPulp 13AfroPulp 13

PIC

TURE

S B

Y A

LAN

- T

EE J

NR

& T

OM

SO

NO

IKI

14 AfroPulp

º

Abrantee BoatengChoice FM’s Golden BoyAn Exclusive interview by Afropulp’s Eva Newlove

Eva Newlove (EN): Whilst you were a part of 90% hit squad, you started your journey at Choice fm in 2005. Looking back did you ever think you’d achieve all that you have?Abrantee Boateng (AB): Admittedly no, I mean I dreamt of it but it was only a dream, an idea, a vision. So to be here now doing exactly the very thing I had hoped and dreamt of is beyond belief .I am taking one day at a time, taking nothing for granted as I worked hard but incredibly thankful to God and everyone who has supported me through it all.

EN: At what age did you say to yourself “ I wanna be a D.j “ or I want to work in entertainment? And what steps did you take to get there?AB: I guess as a child I have always wanted to be involved in entertainment one way or the other. I ate, slept and breathed music so it was just a matter of choosing the area to specialise in. When I left college and inherited my cousins vinyl’s and music collection is when the idea of being an actual DJ was born. It literally kind of fell on my lap but I

had a long way to go and tough shoes to fill as he was a top DJ.EN: You are Ghanaian born and breed in the UK, as a child did you travel to Ghana a lot? And if you did, when was it that you actually started to appreciate your culture?AB: Yeah I got a chance to travel to Ghana a lot as a child, fell in love with the culture, my people and the language now as an adult I make sure I am there at least 2/3 times each year. We are well grounded, well mannered people who respect our culture and the hardwork our parents did.

EN: You are the man of the moment right now! Your Afrobeats show is the most talked about on twitter gaining choice fm its first trending on twitter, it has also opened the doors for alot of people and it’s almost like you are the gateway to the mainstream world where afrobeats is concerned. You’re up and down travelling, even hosting show’s in Ghana and now going to Nigeria. How did this all start?AB: Like most great things its starts with an idea. I have always been championing Afrobeats and hiplife for over

“This industry

is not for the

faint hearted or

weak characters.

You have to be

incredible tough,

thick skinned

and rugged but

nevertheless being

nice is also very

important.”

º

10years now. With such events as our Hiplife Festival, Ghanaian independence day events that the mainstream didnt acknowledge back then. My vision has always been to one day have our music displayed on a mainstream platform through available channels. Fortunately Choice FM believed in this vision and allowed me to try it out with my Afrobeats Radio show, now they are talking about it all over the world. 6months ago Wizkid, a complete unknown managed to pick up a Mobo Award a few weeks ago, Iceprince, can be heard during the day. All eyes are fixed unto the afrobeats genre and artists world over and I am incredibly blessed to have played a major role in the scene. I was invited to Nigeria just last month to Ice princes album launch where he unexpectedly called me out just to thank me onstage in front of the entire Nigerian music industry. I feel so blessed.

EN:I listen to your show most Saturday’s and you recently had D.j Abass on your show and he is one of the pioneer’s on the afrobeats scene. Do you look up to him as a role model? And what’s your opinion on what he has done for the Nigerian music in the UK?AB: Abass is a great friend of mine and we have known each other for some time. I have so much respect for that man as he has been consistent, persistence and stuck with his passion for the scene despite all odds. He has been instrumental in getting the music seen and heard through various channels, events, Carnival, club nights, tv shows and through the Nigerian DJ’s network. Having him on the show was an honour which was well received by the listening audience.

EN: If you were not a D.J or working in entertainment what do you think you’d be doing right now?AB: mmm that’s kind of hard as that’s all I do now but I guess I working in sales.

EN: You have just embarked on your Dj Abrantee Afrobeats UK Tour where you’ll be hitting 12 cities after successfully being the first Dj to host an Afrobeats club night in the city of London at the prestigious club “Merah” this summer. What made you decide to go on tour?AB: The tour was like a natural progression. You know when something hits London hard, it becomes infectious nationwide, so by public demand we had to take the tour around the UK and Ireland. The promoters started calling, the clubbers started tweeting so i saw it as an opportunity to further promote the music, the brand and of course reach out to the fans outside of London.

EN:Being the person you are, I’m sure you’ve met several celebrities, but which star have you met and you thought to yourself “ I cannot believe I’ve meet this person” OR “ Am I actually interviewing this person”AB: Being a presenter and DJ, celebrities are your best friends and you get use to them passing through choice fm studios or major events we attend. Its difficult to think who I haven’t actually met especially in the past year. I have interviewed a

lot of them, supported them in concert and had them pass through on my very own tv show but the one that I think had me thinking “mm am I really sitting here laughing with Jay- Z” that was the moment I realised how closer to the dream I am getting.

EN:You’ve taken part and have been involved in a few charity events in London including the ACLT charity (the marrow-thon for Daniel De-gale) who sadly passed away. Have you got any more plans to support such organisations or doing these kind of events again?AB: Certainly do love supporting worth while causes such as ACLT as you mentioned and I do a lot of the youth behind the scene and run a number of workshops. Its all about giving back and adding value wherever and whenever you can. I wouldn’t enjoy my job so much if I couldn’t give back.

EN: So what’s the future plans for Abrantee? You have ABM Promotions, you are doing the Afrobeats tour UK, You are a primetime D.j on a popular Radio Station, You a great host for events and also a musical director (Screen Nation Awards 2011) What haven’t you achieved yet?AB: The journey has just started and I have so much more to achieve. I have an incredible mix tape Vol 1 soon to drop. Afrobeats of course and it’s the 1st of its kind to be widely distributed and supported by S.R. Entertainment a UK Record label and Choice FM supporting. 2012 is going to be an incredible year for music and Afrobeats and I have a lot planned so this is just an idea of what is to come.

EN: For the Afropulp readers what advice would you give to those who want to pursue a career in Media & Entertainment. What characteristic’s, qualities and skills do you think in your opinion you need to possess?AB: This industry is not for the faint hearted or weak characters. You have to be incredible tough, thick skinned and rugged but nevertheless being nice is also very important. Study the industry and be a master at your craft, stay focused on the vision, the prize and never give up.

WEBSITE: www.abrantee.comTWITTER :@djabranteeFACEBOOK: Abrantee Boateng

AfroMusic

AfroPulp 17

VIP shoots music video with 9ice in Nigeria

233Connect presents ‘T-Pain Live in Ghana’

The Vision In Progress (VIP) boys are on their way to Nigeria to shoot a music video for their new single titled “Good Day”, which features the “Gongoaso” man 9ice. Even though the single has not been released in Ghana yet, the Nima based trio said they want to do it now because everything is set for the shoot.

The group told Peacefmonline.com that they have a very tight schedule, so

does 9ice, so now that they have both made the time, it is just right to use the opportunity. The single is said to be another chart topper and it will not just be promoted in Ghana and Nigeria but across Africa and the world.“We know we are very big in Nigeria, and now we become a Pan-African group so we want to do songs that anybody can relate to on any part of this planet, and this song is one of them”.

They also disclosed that they are going feature a lot more great artistes from other African countries. The group made up of Lazzy, Promxy, and Prodigal will leave Ghana on Wednesday December 7, 2011. They have also been billed to perform at the album launch of a Nigerian artiste Jaywon, produced by Kennis Music, on Friday December 9,

2011 before the video shoot. This will be the fourth single from their upcoming album title:7/11(Seven-Eleven) after they released “SHE BE MY TASTE” and “KISS ME QUICK” earlier this year and followed it up with “CHANGE POSITION”, which was launched on five major radio stations; Peace FM, Okay FM, Joy FM, Adom FM and Hitz FM in Accra.

The 15-track-album, which will be launched very soon at a grand event in Accra, is expected take the group to greater heights.

VIP has also been billed to perform on the upcoming T-Pain Live in Ghana. The concert comes off at the Dome at the Accra International Conference Centre on Thursday December 22, 2011.

Top-rated American singer-songwriter and rap artist T-Pain, otherwise known as Faheem Rasheed Najm, is set to headline a major musical concert on the 22nd of December 2011, at the Dome of the Accra International Conference Centre.

Made possible by Ghana’s leading events management and live entertainment production company 233Connect, the T Pain Live In Ghana concert, is set to be the country’s major event this Christmas.233Connect officially announced today that the Bartender act, would share the stage with some of Ghana’s finest artistes, Sarkodie, VIP, Kwaw Kese, and Buk Bak in a concert, which from all indications, is going to be a sell out. ‘This is a once in a lifetime experience not to be missed by music lovers,” 233Connect has promised.

The December 22nd concert will be 233Connect’s third live major event in Ghana this year, having staged two successful shows, which saw international chart topping acts Fabolous, Redcafe, Mario, Shontelle and Cabo Snoop among a host of other celebrated local and international

artistes, perform to positive responses from thousands of patrons.

With successful albums and multiple chart topping songs to his credit, making him one of the most sought after artistes in the world, T-Pain’s fan base goes beyond the United States, Ghana included. Some of his popular songs in Ghana have included “She Got it”, “Shawty”, “Good Life”, which featured Kanye West, “Buy you a drink”, “I’m a flirt”, “Same Girl” (remix), which featured R Kelly, “Kiss Kiss”, and his most recent “Best Love Song”, which featured Chris Brown, among a host of others. His latest single 5’ O Clock, which features Lily Allen and Whizz Khalifa, is enjoying enormous rotation on rural and urban radio as well as television.

Music lovers in Ghana are definitely in for a concert that will shake the walls of the Dome, come the 22nd of December.

AfroMusic

18 AfroPulp

Sarkodie records with Chipmunk in the UK

Ghana’s fastest rapper, Sarkodie had a studio session with one of UK’s finest music acts, Chipmunk, Monday in London. Sarkodie who is currently touring the UK had an intense session with the young enterprising UK rapper in what close associates who attended the session described as the making of a track set to be one of the biggest tunes next year.

Sources in the UK told Myjoyonline.com that, the two had the session at the Paper4Life Studios and the track, although the title is still unknown, will also feature Jay So of Skillions Records.

Apparently the session took place just about the same time Sarkodie was recording an endorsement for the T-Pain

Live in Ghana concert scheduled for the Dome of the Accra International Conference Centre on December 22. Sarkodie will be performing at that concert. Sarkodie tweeted Monday; “Studio tym wif ma boy @ChipmunkArtist craazzyyy.. Baddest mcee.. Gh uk raah!!!”.

Right after the session, Chipmunk also tweeted, “What a session in the studio man... Mud ting!!!!”.Chipmunk shot into prominence in 2008 when he signed a lucrative record deal with Columbia Records of Sony Music UK releasing several hits songs including Champion, which features Chris Brown, and In the Air, featuring Keri Hilson.

He had nominations at the 2008 edition of Music of Black Origin (MOBO) Awards walking away with two wards, Best UK Newcomer and Best Hip-Hop Act.

The British rapper, born Jahmaal Noel Fyffe, is expected to perform in Ghana this December.

OSEIKROMG R O C E R I E SOSEIKROMG R O C E R I E S

104 HARLINGTON ROAD WEST, FELTHAM MIDDLESEX, TW14 0JJ(OPPOSITE THE HSBC BANK - FELTHAM)

TEL: 020 8844 2552 MOBILE: 07957 972 914 / 07903 211 564

HAIR SALON & BARBERING SHOPMONEY TRANSFER

COOKING UTENSILSVEGETABLES

HOME DELIVERIES

OPENING TIMES: MONDAY - SATURDAY 09:00 - 22:00 SUNDAYS 10:00 - 20:00

A F R O - C A R R I B E A N P R O D U C T S

AfroMusic

AfroPulp 19

INTERVIEW WITH RnB SINGER DELE AKINZ

Who is your all time favourite RnB singer and why?I would have to say Wanya from Boyz 2 Men. Ever since I can remember listening to him, when I was young, I use to think I wish I could sing like him, the dynamics in his voice are able to capture any emotion and his range is top notch. That’s Dele’s favourite singer of all time.

When did you realise you wanted to become a singer and what inspired you?I realised that I wanted to sing from the age of 8. I can remember way back in the day, and I mean way back, my 2 older brothers used to be in a boy group and as a youngster I used to sneak and listen to them while they were all rehearsing, I leant all their songs and 1 day they were stuck on a melody, I thought to myself this is my opportunity to show off, so I came out and offered a solution. I sang, there was an awkward silence and then they all gave me a massive clap, since then I haven’t stopped

Your single “Every little step” is a classic RnB track. Who wrote and produced it?Every Step is one of my favourite songs I have written. The song was produced by Syklone who were also the people involved in Star Boy Nathans first album. Every Step was co-written by myself and Syklone.

Apart from singing what other qualities or hidden talents do you have?Lol I used to be a break dancers back in the day,I think I still got

it but I might be a bit rusty now because I have been going gym a lot lately and I think I have exceeded the dancing size I would probably look like terry crew doing it now lol. I can also play the congo’s if that’s a talent

Where’s the best place you’ve performed that you think took Dele Akinz to another level?There are a lot of shows that stood out for me in career so far but a couple that made me feel top of the world was supporting Dru hill and Black Street at the O2, supporting Joe and just recently I performed at Ghana in the park and that was phenomenal.

What’s next? What plans do you have? Have you got any collaborations coming up? Or is there anyone you’d like to collaborate with?What next for the Dele, well I have an E.P. coming out in winter called Portraits Of Me so look out for it, I’m also planning to do my own show next year so follow me on twitter or facebook to get more info. Regarding collaboration I have done a few with up and coming artist such as myself, currently in the studio working with R&B singer Darren B. also planning to work with a few Nigeria Artist, listen out for some afro beats, and American rappers but I’m not going to say anything just yet you will have to wait and see for that lol.

Follow Dele on Facebook and Twitter: @delemusic/DeleAkinz

AfroPulp 21

AfroBusiness

The importance of having a good business plan when starting a business cannot be over emphasised. It is more important when you are seeking finance for your business, as lenders will want to that you have a viable idea with a good chance of succeeding. Even if you do not require finance, the plan can act as a ‘road map’ of where you want to go with your business and how to get there. Having a business plan can also help avoid costly surprises as your plan should help determine the resources you will need and the best time to get started. While there is no standard format for a business plan, a good business plan should have the following sections: Description of business This is a description of the business you want to start and operate; you need to include information about your business so that anyone who reads your business plan will know you are into a viable business. You should be specific about the service or product you will be offering. It should also give information about the legal structure of the business i.e. sole trader, partnership, limited company.

Marketing planThis should identify who your target market is, those you are trying to reach with your product or service. One of the main keys to a successful business is knowing who your customers are. This helps you tailor what you are offering to meet their needs. You also need to determine what products or services you will be offering them. Your marketing plan will include how you intend to promote your business, this is about creating awareness and interest in your products and services. Another important aspect of your marketing plan is your pricing strategy – your pricing can be used to reflect the quality of your goods and will have an impact on your profits. The plan should cover where your products or services will be available e.g via the internet, retail stores, and wholesalers. A good marketing plan will analyse the competitive rivalry including who your competitors are, what

they are doing, their market share etc. Remember, the whole marketing planning needs to revolve around the customer.

Financial planGood financial management is crucial to a successful business. Your plan should include both your start-up and operational costs. Your costs relates to all the cost incurred in getting your business up and running – equipment, licences, while the operational costs include ongoing expenses such as rent, promotion, utilities, wages etc. The financial plan should also cover which accounting system your business plan to use. Some business owners prefer to employ the services of someone to set up their system.

Management planA good business requires organisation and leadership to run smoothly. The plan will include the business owner’s background and business experience and members of the management team. It will include any support or assistance you will be receiving. Your plans to hire staff, part-time, full-time, now or in the future. The plan will cover the roles the business owners and staff will play.The plan should be written in report format and should include a cover and content page, an executive summary as well as your financial projections. If you are seeking finance you will have to include documents about your personal or business status e.g. tax returns, bank statements and a copy of your rent or lease if applicable.

A word of caution, no matter how good your business plan is, you should always be prepared to expect the unexpected.Modupe Famoriyo

MN Business Consulting Serviceswww.mnbusinessconsulting.co.ukinfo@mnbusinessconsulting.co.ukTel: 020 8893 1936Mob: 079 4997 3320

Business planning is about putting into writing all the plans you have for your business.

AfroEvents

22 AfroPulp22 AfroPulp

SARKODIE TOURS THE UK

Afropulp caught up with Sarkodie whilst he embarked on his first ever visit to the UK to grace us with the AZONTO phenomenon which has hit the afrobeat scene by storm ! The artist who is known as Ghana’s fastest rapper and also one of the first to be signed by an American label (Konvict Muzic owned by US Star AKON) hit the UK with a bang kicking of “The Azonto Tour” and the first stop was the Cape Bar in London. Sarkodie proved that he is indeed a great Artist by performing all his songs to date and his current hit “U go kill me” which drove everybody in the crowd doing the Azonto!!! At his photoshoot for Afropulp where we where able to talk to the star and ask him about his tour in the UK and his up and coming album with surprise collaborations which is out soon, we saw the real and humble part of him.

Sarkodie has been an underground rapper for almost 5 years and has now gone commercial with his music so he is not new to the music scene and has loads of experience which has turned him into the person he is today. His music reflects on who he is and what he see’s in life and he has the skills to present it in different formats which appeals to all. He then spoke about the other town’s they’d be touring in such as Leicester, Luton, Milton Keynes, Manchester and then ending back in London where he began his journey. He also visited Radio station’s such as Choice Fm and had a chance to record tracks in the studio with Doneo and Chipmunk. We believe this is just the beginning of Sarkodie and he has shown that he is not just a one hit wonder but an artist with longevity and vision, ONE TIME FOR YA MIND!

PIC

TURE

S B

Y A

LAN

- T

EE J

NR

& T

OM

SO

NO

IKI

AfroEvents

AfroPulp 23AfroPulp 23

PIC

TURE

S B

Y A

LAN

- T

EE J

NR

& T

OM

SO

NO

IKI

AfroEvents

24 AfroPulp24 AfroPulp

Screen Nation Awards 2011The winners of the Screen Nation Film & TV Awards 2011 were announced at a star-studded ceremony at London’s IndigO2 on Sunday the 16th October 2011. The event was attended by crowds of people delighted to celebrate the achievements of culturally diverse talent in Film and Television, which included British talent, as well as stars from around the world.

This year’s stellar line-up of winners included amongst other legendary broadcaster Sir Trevor MacDonald OBE – Edric Connor Inspiration Award, Clint Dyer - Male Performance in Film, Sherrie Silver – Female Performance in Film, Nonso Anozie – Male Performance in TV, Arinze Kene – Favourite Male TV Star, Tameka Empson – Favourite Female TV Star, Daniel Kaluuya – Young Shooting

Star, Tinie Tempah – Favourite Music Video Performance, Omotola Jalade Ekeinde – Favourite West African Female, The Mirror Boy – Independent Spirit Film Production and Best West African Film, Majid Michel – Favourite West African Male, Luther – Diversity in Drama Production, and Anuvahood – Favourite Urban Movie.

PIC

TURE

S B

Y A

LAN

- T

EE J

NR

,TO

M S

ON

OIK

& D

EE C

ON

STA

NTI

NE-

SIM

MS

I

AfroEvents

AfroPulp 25AfroPulp 25

PIC

TURE

S B

Y A

LAN

- T

EE J

NR,

TO

M S

ON

OIK

I, D

EE C

ON

STA

NTI

NE-

SIM

MS

AfroEvents

26 AfroPulp26 AfroPulp

2FACE ROCKS LONDON’S 02!It was an evening of excitement for fun lovers in the UK who thronged the Indig02 arena for the 2face live show that went down during the weekend. It was attended by a cross section of colourful stars and fans alike who all came to show love and support for Africa’s number one music star.

Specialist Lawyers in Immigration Issues

Suit 110. Legacy Center, Hanworth Trading Estate Hampton Road West Feltham TW14 6DH

T. 020 8755 6885M. 07534 735205F. 020 8755 5877

gloria@ansongassociates.comwww.ansongassociates.com

Suit 110. Legacy Center, Hanworth Trading Estate Hampton Road West Feltham TW14 6DH

T.020 8755 6885 Mobile:07534 735205 www.ansongassociates.com

We provide a fast, friendly,

reliable, affordable and

professional immigration

service. As specialist

immigration lawyers.

Asylum

Further Leave to Remain

Leave to Remain

Nationality

Citizenship

EU

EEA

EXTRA

FREE CREDIT

with online top-up £10.00 = £12.00£5.00 = £6.00

£20.00 = £25.00

£30.00 = £37.50

Internet #

FREEup to 10 MB per day

For your FREE Lycamobile SIM visit www.lycamobile.co.ukor call 020 7132 0322

Join Lycamobile & keep your number

Buy and top up online or in over 115,000 stores

Customers may not be able to use Electronic Top-Up at all locations where the top-up logo appears

1p/min promotion is valid from 31.10.2011 and valid until 30.12.2011. Visit www.lycamobile.co.uk for full terms and conditions and participating countries. UK Lycamobile to Lycamobile calls are free Unlimited. offer valid from 05/11/2011 to 30/12/2011. #Free mobile web offer is valid until 30.12.2011 with a download limit of 10Mb per day per customer. The customer must top-up once to activate the Free mobile web promotion. Free call credit with online Top-up offer valid from 10.09.2011 to 30.12.2011.

Nigeria KenyaUgandaGhana

1p 1p 1p 9p

4p4p4p9p

Landline/min

Mobile/min

1p/min promotion is valid from 31.10.2011 and valid until 30.12.2011. Visit www.lycamobile.co.uk for full terms and conditions and participating countries. #Free mobile web offer is valid until 30.12.2011 with a download limit of 10Mb per day per customer. The customer must top-up once to activate the Free mobile web promotion. Free call credit with online Top-up offer valid from 10.09.2011 to 30.12.2011.