As we step into the New Year, here’s the annual forecast by NET, of what and who to look out for in the new year. It’s a list of promising talents, thinkers, tycoons and tech; as well as titans and trends that’ll rule in 2014.
360NOBS: This online platform, which has branched out from just blogging about Nigerian music and minor entertainment news, now appeals to a broader base. If you are a regular at 360nobs, you’ll probably not miss any trending topic.
960 MUSIC: The new entertainment company showed its seriousness by buying almost 40 per cent stake in 2face Idibia’s Hypertek Digital and Aristocrat Music, paying 20 million each to the labels. This move makes the outfit one to watch out for in 2014.
AMAA: The African Movie Academy Award has earned a reputation as one of the most recognized movie awards in Africa. Organizers have continued to expand the awards each year, adding more glamour even as more countries now identify with it. We can’t wait to see what they’ll come up with in 2014.
AMARACHI: Amarachi Uyanne, the winner of the inaugural edition of ‘Nigeria’s Got Talent’, recently released visuals for her single titled ‘Amarachi Dance’. The eight-year-old had a busy 2013 as she has featured on several billboards and earlier in the year set up a dancing school through her management team so kids like her can have a platform to showcase their talents. Amarachi will surely release more dance videos in the coming year.
AMVCA: The debut edition of African Magic Viewers Choice Awards was spectacular, and we expect the second edition to be even bigger as more awareness and publicity is already being created for the award.
ANOTHER JENIFA MOVIE: After releasing the movies, ‘Jenifa’, ‘Jenifa 2’ and ‘The Return of Jenifa’, Funke Akindele is now making plans to drop a fourth instalment.
APC: The opposition party, All Progressives Congress, is bent on taking power from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) as it embarked on a mass recruitment of PDP chieftains and members in 2013, in its bid to unseat the ruling party. APC has succeeded in breaking the PDP grip as some of the governors and National Assembly members elected on the PDP platform have defected. The opposition party is even wooing one of the founding fathers of the PDP and symbol of its political might, ex-president Obasanjo. Nothing is impossible in Nigerian politics.
#ASOEBIBELLA: An innovation from Nigeria’s foremost fashion and style blog, the weekly compilation of pictures of ‘Aso ebi’ is already generating a lot of interest in the community of party-loving Nigerians.
BEVERLY NAYA: Armed with an undeniable sex appeal and sheer brilliance on screen, Beverly Naya is one gorgeous actress who has a blossoming acting career. Since she stepped into the movie world, the young actress has appeared in a number movies and clinched a few awards. She now has a role on MNET’s Tinsel and is sure to wow Nigerians in 2014.
BEVERLY OSU: Big Brother Africa (BBA) 2013 brought her to the limelight, but Beverly has continued to make herself relevant, joining some stars in The Future Awards, Hennessy Artistry Finale, Nelson Mandela’s funeral in South Africa, and was also signed as the face of make-up brand, ‘Prestige Cosmetics’. She was listed as one of Google Nigeria’s top searched personalities of 2013. The young model may pursue an acting career with the popularity she gained in the last few months.
BIG BROTHER AFRICA: BBA is no doubt one of the shows with the largest viewership in Africa. This year, many will be vying for a chance to win the mouth-watering $300,000 prize money. We hope those chosen to represent Nigeria this time will win the price money like Kelvin, Uti and Karen.
BLACK MAGIC: The alternative soul artiste released his anticipated sophomore album titled ‘Version 2.0’, a 15-track album that features M.I, Sasha P, Oritse Femi and Banky W. The album will propel the controversial act into the mainstream in 2014.
BRAZIL WORLD CUP: The biggest soccer fiesta in the world will be taking place in Brazil. This may be the most competitive World Cup in recent history.
CHAN: Nigeria will be participating at its first African Nations Championship (CHAN). The third edition of the competition will be hosted by South Africa and Nigerians expect the home-based Super Eagles to do the nation proud by winning the trophy at first attempt, after their heroic show at this year’s Nation’s Cup.
CHIDINMA: Ms. Kedike should be gearing up for an outstanding 2014, one that surpasses her outing in 2013 which saw her drop a number of singles and feature in many collabos. She also performed at most A-list events and went on tour for the MTN’s ‘Loud in Naija Tour’. Her album is one of the most anticipated for 2014.
CITY FM: City FM 105. 1 rebranded this year, employed better OAPs and created competition for Top Radio 90.9 FM as more and more listeners took notice of them, thereby increasing their audience base.
COOL TV: Urban radio station Cool FM is launching a TV station, Cool TV, in 2014. Recruitment for the new station has already started.
DEETUNES: He is responsible for the major hit songs on Iyanya’s ‘Iyanya Vs Desire’ album. He repeated the feat while working with new pop sensation Sean Tizzle on ‘Sho Lee‘, ‘Mama Eh‘ and other songs, courtesy of his Difference Entertainment. DeeTunes is no doubt a hitmaker and if he carries that tradition into 2014, the year will see him earning lots of awards.
DAZZLING MIRAGE: The Tunde Kelani flick is an adaptation from the book written by Olayinka Adebola Egbokhare. It stars Lala Akindoju and Kunle Afolayan and the release of the trailer has created quite a buzz. ‘Dazzling Mirage‘ will definitely be one of the anticipated movies of 2014, and, with Kelani as director, the best is always expected.
DEL’B: He is the producer behind the monster hit single ‘Limpopo’ and most tracks on KCEE’s album ‘Take Over’. Del B will be one of the busiest and most sought after producers in 2014; he is one to watch out for.
DESMOND ELLIOT: The movie actor/director produced ‘Finding Mercy’, directed Dayo Amusa’s ‘Unforgivable’ and also recently delved into politics. 2014 will see Desmond’s passion for movies and his political ambitions thrive.
DJ SWITCH: DJ Switch won the first edition of Glo X-Factor and walked home with N24million, an SUV and a recording contract with SONY Music. The former member of Star Quest winning band, Pulse, is expected to release her debut album in 2014.
DJ XCLUSIVE: DJ Xclusive has become one of the most sought-after Deejays in Nigeria. The Cool FM OAP and EME official DJ has been putting out single after single ahead of his soon-to-be-released mixtape, ‘Super Star DJ’.
DON JAZZY/D’BANJ COLLABO: The former business partners parted ways in 2012 with little likelihood of ever working together again. They surprised fans when they performed at D’Banj’s sister’s weddingand much later were together at Ice Prince’s FOZ concert. D’Banj has already revealed that he and Don Jazzy will be working together on a few projects… We can’t wait!
DR. SID‘s WEDDING: Mavin Records act, Dr. SID and his fiancée Simi Osomo officially got engaged in August, 2013. Now we know one of the celebrity weddings we should look forward to. Well, gear up; the wedding is scheduled to hold in June, 2014.
EFYA: Award-winning Ghanaian artiste Efya had a wonderful year. She released a free album titled ‘This Is Not The Album’, participated in top shows in Nigeria and Ghana, won ‘Best Female Vocalist’ at the Ghana Music Award, made waves with her single ‘Best in Me’ featuring Sakordie. Efya is set to release her long-awaited debut album titled ‘Love Genesis’ on Christmas day, December 25, 2013.
FUEL PRICE HIKE: President Goodluck Jonathan may give us another surprise New Year present, a hike in fuel prices. Although this may not happen on New Year day, it is unlikely that a year will go by without a hike in the pump price of fuel in Nigeria.
HALF OF A YELLOW SUN, THE MOVIE: Chimamanda Adiche’s award winning novel depicting the Nigerian Civil War was adapted by Biyi Bandele into a movie of same title, starring Nigerian-born British actor Chiwetel Ejiofor, Thandie Newton and with an appearance by Nollywood’s finest, Genevieve Nnaji. With a dismal rating by most movie buffs, it has generated a lot of interest which will continue into 2014 when it premieres in Nigeria.
HARRYSONG: His name might not immediately ring a bell right now but it will soon. Writer of the popular ‘Limpopo’ song by Kcee, Song is an artiste in his own right. His Mandela tribute is the most downloaded song for the year ending. The talented composer is looking forward to an album release in 2014 through the Five Star Music imprint.
IDIBIA BABY: After a glamorous wedding early in the year, the Idibias are expecting a new addition to the family. Annie, who is heavily pregnant, is in the US and may deliver her baby anytime soon.
KEMI LALA AKINDOJU: The actress had a good year, starring in the Charles Novia directed ‘Alan Poza’ alongside O.C. Ukeje, and in yet-to-be-released ‘Dazzling Mirage’ directed by veteran director/producer Tunde Kelani. Akindoju is one of the actresses to watch out for next year.
KIMYE WEDDING: Ever since rapper/producer Kanye West proposed to girlfriend Kim Kardashian on her 33rd birthday, Kim’s mother, Kris Jenner, has been making preparations for what we all expect to be a glamorous wedding.
LIVESPOT: The new production company run by Darey Art Alade kicked off in 2013 with the highly successful ‘Love Like a Movie’ concert. Already, they’ve handled production for The Africa International Film Festival (AFRIFF), The Headies, and will be looking at producing more events/concerts in 2014.
MANDELA FAMILY CONTROVERSIES: The death of Nelson Mandela has been generating so much controversies as family members struggle to get a piece of the icon’s assets. Before his death, two of his daughters were already suing directors at Mandela’s company for ownership. There have been reports of the family asking his widow Gracia to leave his home and incidents of argument over money. As each new day unfolds, we are going to hear more about these issues.
M.I: Since his sophomore album in 2010, Chocolate City rapper, M.I., has released just one single ‘Chairman’ in recent times. Although he has made more money from endorsements and other ventures, sources reveal that the rapper might spring a surprise soon as his third studio album, ‘Chairman‘, is in the works.
MOE MUSA: The UK-based director has become the go-to-man for acts who want to shoot their videos in the UK. He is responsible for countless videos of Nigerian acts, including those by Ice Prince, Wizkidand Iyanya, Dr. SID and most notably the controversial ‘Skelewu’ video. 2013 has been a massive year for him and next year should be even bigger for the talented director.
MOSES OBI ADIGWE: After winning the third season of Nigerian Idol in April, Moses Obi Adigwe has made a name for himself by releasing three new singles ‘Love in the Air’, ‘Number One’ and ‘Love Letter’ with a collaboration with female rap act Eva Alordiah. The 22-year-old star will, hopefully, achieve greater heights in the coming year.
MR 2KAY: Port Harcourt based act, Mr. 2Kay enjoyed heavy rotation on the airwaves with the release of‘Bubugaga’ and its chart topping remix and ‘Oga DJ’ featuring Chidinma. With more hardwork, the singer could make the B-list category in 2014. Maybe A-list, even?
NAIJA FM: The station had a good 2013. Tweaking its playlist and garnering more following, The Gbemi Olateru-Olagbegi-led station gave Wazobia FM a run for their money. They did crown it all this year with the Naija FM Comedy Jam, rewarding stars in the comedy industry. These and other achievements should propel them to greater heights in 2014.
O.C Ukeje
O.C UKEJE: He was the stand-out actor for 2013. He won ‘Best Actor’ at AMVCA, NEA, BON, NMA and capped it all by winning the ‘Prize in Entertainment and Talent‘ at the Future Awards. He was nominated for ‘Best Actor’ a record eight times this year alone — a feat never achieved by any actor in Nollywood. 2014 should be a bigger and busier year for him.
OCTOBER 1: One of the most anticipated films for 2014, ‘October 1‘ has generated so much buzz as fans have followed every bit of news about it right from the casting to the production on set. We gathered that, so far, over N100m has been spent on the production, with N100million more to be expended.
OJB JEZREEL: Until the kidney issue, OJB Jezreel had been in oblivion. Now that he is back, alive and well, the talented singer/producer may just decide to spring surprises with his career. Like they say, problems and tribulations sometimes bring out the best in us. Jigga is certainly one to watch in 2014 since money isn’t an issue anymore.
OLAWALE: Olawale came to prominence when he won the sixth edition of MTN Project Fame. The highly talented young man is one look out for and we hope to hear his singles and possibly an album.
ONLINE STORES: In the past year, online retail stores and betting sites have done fairly well. Slowly but surely gaining acceptance in Nigeria, the prospect of these businesses becoming the future is quite bright. Konga, Jumia, OLX, Nairabets, 9jabets and 1960bets have already taken the front seat in this line of business and more will certainly join them in the coming months.
ONOBELLO: One of the fastest-rising fashion blogs in Nigeria, OB is playing by the rules and building great traffic. Definitely one of the few blogs to follow in 2014.
OSAS IGHODARO: Just a little over a year after returning home from the US, former beauty queen Osas Ighodaro has become a major presence in the Nigerian entertainment industry. From clinching a role on ‘Tinsel‘ to hosting the popular ‘Maltina Dance All’ show and launching her foundation, she has had a phenomenal year and 2014 looks more promising for the model/actress.
PARKER IGHILE: Nigerian UK-based singer and producer Parker Ighile became the first artiste to be signed to Nicki Minaj‘s record label Pink Friday. Ighile has since gone on to produce tracks for Nicki Minaj, Rihanna, Chip Munk and a few others. The youngster is working on his own album after putting out a few singles.
PASSWORD: After the controversy surrounding the hit ‘Gobe’, Password released a collaboration with Davido titled ‘Obiageli’ which didn’t do badly. The rising star won the MTN Songster Competition and went home with a Porsche Cayman, N10 million plus a recording deal with Don Jazzy’s Mavin Records. This feat surely makes him one to look out for next year.
PAUL OKOYE’S WEDDING: After his twin brother wedded his baby mama Lola Omotayo, Paul may be under pressure to tie the knot with his own baby mama Anita Isama. Paul gave reasons why he couldn’t get married on the same day with his brother, so, next year should be okay for another Okoye wedding.
PHEEL: He was a quarter-finalist at the maiden edition of Glo X-Factor and is currently working with award winning producer Cobhams Asuquo. The hardworking and talented producer has worked with Darey Art-Alade and a number of other acts and is gearing up to take 2014 by storm.
PHYNO: He has been tagged the ‘Man of the Year’ by his ardent fans. Although he has been around for a while, 2013 proved to be phenomenal for Phyno. With a few hits to his credit, especially with theOlamide featured ‘Ghost Mode’ which was a favourite amongst fans and topped a few charts for weeks, nothing short of an album will be expected from Phyno in 2014.
REMINISCE: Indigenous rapper Reminisce released his sophomore album ‘Alaga Ibile’, which is arguably the best rap album of 2013. The album featured some of the A-list artistes around likeOlamide, Naeto C, Wizkid and Davido and had Sossick as producer. ‘Alaga Ibile’ did well and is expected to drive Reminisce into 2014.
SASHA P: First Lady of Storm Records is making a comeback after a few years off the music scene. The once very popular female rapper released a new single titled ‘Recognise’ featuring Tha Suspect, and is expected to release an album next year.
SEAN TIZZLE: He dropped ‘Sho Lee’ and crept into our consciousness and decided to remain there. He has had a fantastic year with two other singles ‘Mama Eh’ and ‘Komole’. He won awards at NMVA and was the fastest rising new artist and ‘Next Rated’ at The Headies in 2013. 2014 should be massive for him, especially if he releases his debut album. We are waiting.
SEYI SHAY: The UK returnee dropped her very impressive single titled ‘Irawo’ and backed it with an equally good video. Seyi Shay got an endorsement deal with Etisalat, joining hip-hop acts, Olamide and Ice Prince, as ambassadors. Her debut album will be among the most anticipated next year and she is expected to consolidate on the gains of 2013.
SIKA OSEI: She came on as a replacement for Dolapo Oni on MNET’s Studio 53. Sika Osei teaming with the delectable Eku Edewor makes her the new face to watch out for on TV.
SHORT FILM SERIES: It looks like short film series will become a heavy trend in 2014, with the impressive releases we all saw in 2013. Series like ‘Gidi Up’, ‘Knock Knock’, ‘Shuga’ and ‘#howsheleftmybrother’ all had us glued to our PCs.
SKALES: Whether it was a good year or not for EME artiste Skales is debatable. The youngster put out a few singles and videos to an average reception. Somehow, a few industry enthusiasts think that the ‘Mukulu’ singer has what it takes to achieve prominence in the industry. Let’s just see what the pop star has up his sleeves for 2014.
SNAP CHAT: An app on iOS that can help you relay pictures or videos and all these are discreetly added to the replay, filters overlays for weather, time or speed. An innovation which will help you when you take a selfie; definitely an app to watch out for in 2014.
SPICE TV: The owners of Soundcity recently launched a fashion, beauty and lifestyle TV show, Spice TV, which is dedicated to exploring African fashion and culture on the continent. With programmes like ‘Spice Runway’, ‘Diary of a Muse’, ‘Spice Focus’ and ‘Fashion 360’, the channel could become a major voice in fashion reporting.
STAR MUSIC: Star lager consolidated all its music properties under the Star Music umbrella. The App, launched in February was a first from that industry. Star Music…The Trek led a community of music shows that brought together the highest number of A-list artistes in the country. Insiders say more properties are on the way, although no one knows if Star Quest and Megajam are returning in 2014.
TAMARA ETEIMO: Next Movie Star reality show winner (2011), Tamara Eteimo seems to be making great waves in her acting career since her win. The ambitious young lady has featured in several series and movies and appeared on the Top 5 list of actresses made by movie producer Charles Novia.
TIWA SAVAGE WEDDING: Taking a cue from the largely celebrated Lagos traditional wedding, many are looking forward to the white wedding of Tiwa Savage and hubby, T-Billz, which they plan to have on the island of Maldives. Many celebs, we are certain, are already planning to storm the wedding just like they did the 2face and Annie Idibia wedding in Dubai.
WANDE COAL: This year was a good one for the ‘Black Diamond’. Despite falling out with his mentor Don Jazzy and engaging him in a twitter feud, Wande Coal has released a few singles and snagged amouth-watering endorsement deal with GLO. Maybe we will get to listen to his highly anticipated sophomore album soon.
WIZKID’S STARBOY: Superstar Wizkid established his record label and subsequently signed producersLegendary Beatz and the highly sought after Maleek Berry and singer L.A.X. The label also debuted its first video ‘Caro’, which was an instant hit. Wizzy is expected to go fully on his own next year, with his full weight behind his own label. we cant wait to see how the kid will transform from boy to man.
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