X-Project returns to Nigeria

Famous Nigerian-based musical group, X-Project is leaving the shores of Freetown on Sunday for Nigeria on board Bellview Airline to complete their third album, which is slated for release in May.The group has been in Freetown for about a month now to shoot parts of their musical video.X-Project's leader Saal, said they have released one of the songs in the album “Tender Love” as a promo to all radio stations nationwide in order to gauge the feelings of the people.The album, which is a combination of lover's rock, R&B with some African touch, would be recorded fully at Sam Kargbo Production Studio.

The group is made up of two Sierra Leoneans, Salieu Umarr Sindi aka Saal, Azziz Kamara alias Slez and a Nigerian Majeed Akinwoye popularly known as Majeed.

Dry Yai Crew takes Mabinty to London

From the album Cam Near Mi, Dry Yai Crew will be storming the United Kingdom (UK) on April 27, 2007 with their song Mabinty.Bilal Bah, Dry Yai Crew's Executive Manager, said his group has been invited to Britain by the Sierra Leonean community to perform on Sierra Leone 's Independent Day celebration.

“All the arrangements have been worked out; we are just waiting for the day to thrill our brothers and sisters in London . A lot of them have heard about the group and this is the best time for them to see us live on stage,” he said. Bilal added that the group is going to London mainly to showcase the song Mabinty which he described as a legendary song that would pass to coming generations.

Daddy Saj…rocking the votes for 2007 elections

Sierra Leone's anti-corruption crusader, Daddy Saj (real name Joseph Cole), will unveil his fifth album titled ‘Vote For DSAJ' on April 7th at the National Stadium, John Konteh, Daddy Saj's manager revealed.Speaking to Gospel of Entertainment, Konteh said the album was designed to rock the votes ahead of the July 2007 elections.“The multi talented musician has almost completed his album in Ghana and the album contains 12 songs. It was recorded in one of the leading recording studios in Accra ,” Konteh said, adding that Saj collaborated with celebrated Ghanaian musicians like Sydney the Hip Life Ninja among others.

Konteh who was with Daddy Saj in Ghana, also disclosed that the artist did his pre-recording in three studios in Accra with professional Ghanaian producers like Sugar Tone, Nana-fynn, and Mix Master Kwame from London . He said further that Daddy Saj will arrive with six Ghanaian musicians at the end of March to grace the album launch in April.It would be recalled that before Saj left for Ghana , he did a collaborate with Nassa Ayoub in the remix of a Lebanese song, Yaliel (One Love).Vote for DSAJ is Daddy Saj's fifth musical album and music analysts are of the view that the album would sell platinum because it was not designed for the local audience only but also to rock the international scene.

CSA on fire…… Gibo to be sacked for corruption

Fierce confrontation took place at the head office of the Cassette Sellers Association (CSA)'s head office on last Thursday as some members of the association demanded their controversial President Gibrilla Turay aka Gibo to be relieved of his appointment for alleged corrupt practices.The aggrieved members sealed off the CSA's Sackville Street office accusing Gibo of running CSA like an Arab Sheik.Police personnel from the Central Police Station who stormed the scene to put the situation under control reported that Gibo who is the CSA President also acted as the association's Financial-Secretary which enables him sign cheques and siphon money from the association's account.While Osman Kanu, a member of CSA, lashed at their President for his refusal to appoint a Financial-Secretary despite constant calls, other members of CSA blamed Gibo for all woes facing the organization for operating the association like his father's entity.

It would be recalled that Gibo, who imposed himself as CSA president for the past 15 years, met his downfall when he allegedly attempted to convert Le 75 million meant for artistes who won in various categories at the Comium/CSA Awards show last year, for his personal use.Abu Bakarr Kamara, CSA Vice President said they have agreed to fill the vacant executive positions whilst Gibo would continue as President for the next six months.

Finex storms Freetown to eclipse gospel musicians

The hottest gospel sensation in Sierra Leone , Asibor Finex Tuesday vowed to subdue all gospel musicians in the country with his new album titled: ‘Freetown Praise Something More Than Good.'The album has been described by renowned musical analysts in the country as one of the best.Finex is not only a household name in Sierra Leone but also in Nigeria where he had ruled the country's music scene and had won several prestigious awards in Nigeria and other countries in the West Africa .Recently, the music icon was in Kenema to work out final arrangements for the launch of his album, which many gospel fans believe would go platinum.

In a chat with Concord Times' Mid Week Entertainment, Finex said he decided to do gospel music because he wants to attract all facets of the society and touch souls.“Gospel music is not new to me because I have been in the business only God knows how long,” he said. He added that his album will create unimaginable impact in the lives of the children of God.“I have a vision. I want to go out there and preach to the people about the importance of religion and raise the awareness among youths in the country,” he said citing gospel music as his mechanism of approach.“The album will be released before the end of the year,” he concluded.

Valentine's Day Special

Mariama Kandeh 14/2/2007

As the world celebrates St. Valentine's Day, Concord Times went out to get the views of some business people who sell gifts and season cards.Mohamed Kamara, Proprietor of Base-One Enterprise, Ecowas Street explained that he started trading in season cards and gifts in 1999. He now sells more of women attire and once in a while some gent's ware. He stated that the business has been very profitable.

Kamara pointed out that most of his customers are pupils and young ladies, especially college students from Fourah Bay College, Njala, Milton Margai, IPAM and sometimes middle age women.“I got my stocks from the United Kingdom ,” he explained, noting that 70% of ladies go in for red stocks to celebrate Valentine's Day and to give as gifts to their loved ones, family members and friends.

 “Valentine's Day is for us to show love to one another. I pray for love and harmony in the business sector,” he entreated stating that “it is only when love is in the heart that you will be able to give it out.”He encouraged his valued customers to continue doing business with Base-One Enterprises.

Umarr Kabbah is the Proprietor of Fodnan Enterprise that was set up some five years ago. He caters for both the young and old but Kabbah's customers are mostly young ladies.On the eve of Valentine's Day, he told Concord Times that his business has seen a large turnout of ladies and gents who hurried up to look for gifts of different kinds for their loved ones.“I think the Valentine's Day is going to be fantastic for many young people in Freetown ,” he said adding that the rush has been for red items of various kinds. These range from sandals to ladies blouse to shoes.

He sends love greetings to his Mum, Nanah and wished his customers a splendid Valentine's Day celebration.Hawanatu Komeh, Hannah Kargbo and Rugiatu Komeh sell Valentine's Day gifts on Ecowas Street-Garrison Streets roundabout (P-Z).According to Hawanatu fast business depends on the reduction in the prices of particular items.

She said days before Valentine's Day, they all resolved to sell Valentine's Day cards, gifts, bags, and flowers thereby shifting a bit from what they originally sold.

“Most of our customers have been school pupils in secondary schools.”

She said ladies are more interested in buying gifts than gentlemen.

Hawanatu said this is so because women could handle love better than men.

She sends love greetings to all her customers who have been patronizing their businesses.

“We love you all and happy Valentines' Day,” they all said.

Friday Anedo of Global Choice Boutique on 12 Garrison Street said he started business in 1998. He now trades in ladies' ware only; according to him business has been profitable.

Anedo said customers come in as usual but more guys are coming in to get gifts for their girlfriends or wives.

He wished Sierra Leoneans a blessed Valentine's Day.

Nora Thomas started the Mactamrah Enterprise at 58 Krootown Road some 20 years ago.She sells stocks for ladies and sometimes gents.“More ladies come to the shop to buy Valentine's Day gifts for their lovers than gents do. Customers have been picking up roses, perfumes, teddy bears, sweets etc.”

The turnout, Thomas confessed, is not like previous years. She said this is because of the uncontrollable sales in Valentine's Day gifts on the streets.She, however, stated that a certain class of ladies that go in for quality gifts have been coming to her shop to pick up Valentine's Day gifts.“All my stocks are brought in from the UK ,” she said and wished her customers a very happy Valentine's Day celebration.“May you all live in peace with your loved ones. Continue to do business with Mactamrah.”

Paradise Distributors, Dry Eye Crew embark on cleaning

Abdul Karim Koroma 10/1/2007

Paradise Distributors and Dry Eye Crew will embark on cleaning the city every last Saturday in the month. The day will also be used as a way to market all albums distributed by Paradise Distributors.Paradise Distributors is the distributor for Hard Life, Emersion, Kwame Coker, Dry Eye Crew - featuring Pupa Banja, Jungle Leaders and Baw Wow Society - among other artists.Jimmy B, Paradise Distributors Managing Director said Tuesday that they will be embarking on this venture to conscientize Sierra Leoneans about a healthy environment.“We want to create some amount of excitements during the cleaning day. Every individual is part of the government. We just want to ensure that our environment is clean and tidy,” the godfather of Sierra Leone music said, adding that the Minister of Local Government, Sidique Brima has assured that his ministry would provide vehicles for the exercise.

He explained that Paradise Distributors and Dry Eye Crew will take care of the youths who participate in the cleaning.“We have identified over 100 youth groups to clean Freetown . Whilst the cleaning is going on, our sales boys will be around to market the musicians in the company. This month's cleaning Saturday will take place on 19 January 2007 because the Dry Eye Crew are performing in the provinces January 24 through to the 27, 2007,” Jimmy said, adding that very soon the project would be taken to the provinces.

A look at Hezbollah: The real Sheik Hassan Nasrallah

Alpha Bhoyy 29/9/2006

Sheik Hassan Nasrallah was born in 1960 in one of the most northern ghetto areas in Beirut , Lebanon . Now leader of the Hezbollah faction, he grew up very poor and sharp. At his early age, he wore the robes of minor Shiite clerics. He is a world class politician. Although the US government describes him as a terrorist that could only be one of the descriptions of his many faces. This undesirable son of Beirut slums with a defect in speech that could seem almost childish most times has tried very hard to earn the respect of his enemies in Lebanon .

A former Isreal Mossad Senior Officer described him as a superb man. He is smart, charismatic and also has the guts to ignite a war against Isreal – a country considered to have the strongest army in the Middle East . Israel having 168,000 well trained troops, 402 CCA (Combat Capable Aircrafts) and 72 Warships is well considered to be the strongest nation in terms of military might in the Arab region.

I could still recall when an Iranian official described Sheik Hassan Nasrallah as a student who goes further than his teachers. He earns a superb recognition for putting on a challenge against the Zionist regime which no other Arab leader could have ever thought of.

Nasrallah also grew up in a neighborhood of squatters and refugees in the eastern outskirt of Beirut called Sharshabouk which is situated in the Karantina area of Beirut . There was no electricity, no running water and houses were often made of tin sheets and wood which are crude sharks.

Nasrallah spent most of his childhood with his parents. His father ran a small grocery shop, and was a devoted and trustworthy man. Nasrallah`s mother was considered to be the force of the family. She is self satisfied and tough. Nasrallah was sent to a private school. However, a civil war started in 1975 in Lebanon . When it finally extended to Beirut , the Karantina area became a battle ground. In due course the whole family moved to their ancestral village near a town called Tyre which was one of the cities targeted by the Israeli strike in the recent war against the Hezbollah separatist.

Nasrallah was only 15 years old and therefore decided to travel to Iraq in other to pursue his religious studies in the Holy city of Najaf . Originally, Nasrallah`s interests were pragmatic, political more rooted in world conflicts. He knew everything about Israel including the politicians and the army.

He idolizes Ayatollah Ruhollah Khomeini. In one of the past wars against the Zionist regime, he lost his son, Hadi. This happened in 1997. It took Nasrallah almost a year to regain back the remains of his son. However, the Israeli army decided to exchange the remains of his son with that of an Israeli officer who was also killed in the same battle. His remains were also taken away by the Hezbollah fighters.

The lost of his son has become a way through which he rallied the Hezbollah fighters by bluffing that he is not even afraid to send his own son to the front line against the Zionist regime. Meanwhile, having stood against the Zionist regime for over three weeks he has earned himself a strong popularity in the Muslim world.

Cotton Tree magazine wins two awards 5-9-2006

The ‘Cotton Tree' magazine has recently taken two awards for the best magazine in the Sierra Leonean community in the UK . In The Sweissy Union Community Progressive Awards 2006, on Friday 25 August, The Cotton Tree picked up one of the award for “The Best Sierra Leonean Magazine for the year 2006.”And in the United Artists Community Excellence Awards, held on Sunday 27 August, The Cotton Tree gets another award for the “Best Community Magazine of the Year.” The editor of the magazine, Unisa Dizo-Conteh says: “this is a great moment for me and my outstanding editorial team and all those who are supporting us in a verity of ways.”

He adds: “I feel very honoured and thrilled to receive two awards for our contribution to the Sierra Leonean community.”Dizo-Conteh thanked all those who voted for them and expressd appreciation to the organizers of both events, the Sweissy Union and the United Artists. He says he is very much delighted and would like people to recognise his remarkable team members – Graphic Designer, Sylvester Dugba, Feature Editor in the UK , Daphne Brown, Feature Editor in Sierra Leone , Murtala Mohamed Kamara, Photo Journalist, Femi Palmer and Writer Shireen Benjamin.The Cotton Tree magazine was formally launched in February 2006. Two editions have been published so far. The latest edition carried a front cover feature of ‘Borbor Bele' star Emmerson Bockarie. The Cotton Tree is a lifestyle magazine and its purpose is to inform, entertain and engage Sierra Leoneans in and out of Sierra Leone .Earlier this year, Editor Unisa Dizo-Conteh received recognition for an outstanding work in journalism by the ‘Sierra Leone For You' (SL4U) group in the UK . The next edition of the Cotton Tree is expected this month.

CSA wants Piracy Act reviewed 5/9/2006

A delegation of the Sierra Leone Cassette Sellers Association (CSA) led by its President, Gibrilla Turay, has made a fervent appeal for assistance to the Resident Representative of United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), Victor Angelo, in supporting a review of the Piracy Act in the music industry in Sierra Leone.Addressing the problems affecting their association, Gibrilla Turay described piracy as the number one plague affecting their trade which, today employs some 3,096 youths and provides livelihood for hundreds of their dependants.

In the absence of a reliable Piracy Act he said, “the music industry in the country will continue to be severely threatened by opportunists using computers and homemade appliances to dub and pirate music that is sold at cheap prices.”He therefore appealed for government to review the current piracy laws in order to save their industry and the employment of youths that accompany it.CSA was formed in 1992 to address the problems of its members and to promote Sierra Leone 's indigenous music at both local and international levels. Since the end of the war its membership has grown and attracted the interest of new members, including former combatants.

Miss University represents Sierra leone in South Korea

Miss Kadijah Kebbay, the university beauty queen flew last monday on board emirates airlines to Seoul, South Korea to represent sierra leone in the 19th World Miss University beauty contest.Kadijah has already joined her colleagues from other countries in two weeks preparation for the contest to be held on the 11 th November.For the first time in ages, Sierra Leone will be in representation in a world event. “This has been one of our dreams since we conceived Miss University (SL) in 2005. we were able to make amends to avoid the constraints we encountered last year, through goodwill support from telecommunications giant Celtel” says Fidelis Adele, Special Projects Manager,Concord Times Communications

When we paid a courtesy call on the management of Celtel immediately after the contest, the Managing Director expressed satisfaction in the manner the event was organized and reassured of the commitment to sponsoring the beauty queen's trip.World Miss University pageant dates back to …..when head of universities offered the UN the opportunity to use the university queens for peace keeping. Kadijah Kebbay was invited to “participate actively and take lead in peace work as a member of the peace emissary”.Concord Times communications appreciates the support from sponsors and hope that it gets support from the government and other potential sponsors next year.

MISS UNIVERSITY DOATES TO UNDERPRIVILEGED

Concord Times Communications, Pikin Bizness and foreign partner Chez Winnakabs Europe will be embarking on a charity campaign spear headed by the newly crowned Miss University Queen Kadijah Kebbay. This will be the first international charity function to be undertaken by the beauty queen who is already envisaged to have a very successful reign.

Speaking to Miss Kadijah Kebbay at a ceremony where she donated items to the underpriviledged, she revealed that she has great passion to help the needy “ Pikin Bizness is an organization that has helped a lot especially the children who are flown abroad for heart surgeries. It is high time we helped to raise money for these charity ventures, that is why I will dedicate my one year to raise funds for surgeries and also support other orphanages”

Miss Kadijah Kebbay also stressed that all things being equal, she will be flying to the UK first week in September for the campaign slated for 9 th September at the Main Hall 447-451 New Cross Road , London SE14 6TA . She will also be representing Sierra Leone in the World Miss University Contest in Korea November 5 th .

"It is our desire that genuine efforts such as this be encouraged hence; the board of trustees of Pikin Bizness has unanimously appointed Miss Kadijah Kebbay as its goodwill ambassador because of the need to create both local and international awareness" responded Mr Adonis Abboud, Founder and chairman 'Pikin Bizness'.

Project coordinator, Chez Winnakabs Europe, Winston Kabia Snr, in a telephone interview said his organisation is proud to be part of this campaign because they have been following the activities of Pikin Bizness and found out they pursue a common charity course. Chez Winnakabs Europe is helping the campaign with logistics such as venue, accomodation and publicity.

Medical reports reveal that about 150 children are presently living with holes in the heart out of which are 20 critical cases who might not live if unattended to within the shortest possible time. In collaboration with financial times media representative David Applefield and Boston-based partner Anglophone Media Pikisn Bizness has saved two lives ( Zogie Ighobor and Abubakar Jalloh).

The entire sierra Leonean community and associates in the UK are all invited to this campaign to save sierra Leonean children.Our dream is to save the entire 150 children. Therefore your support to this campaign is saving lives.

As colleges go on vacation: Students await University beauty queen

Rachel Horner 27/7/2006

As the holiday commences properly, thousands of university students are anxiously awaiting to see the next Miss University Queen.The event is scheduled to take place at the prestigious Family Kingdom on the 29 July 2006.Dennis Moseray of Institute of Public Administration and Management (IPAM) cast his bet that this year's Queen will come from their college and that they will be going there in there thousands to support their candidate Kadijatu Kebbay.The King of Mascot Breed club MMCET Goderich Campus, Mohamed I Kamara told Concord Times that since they have organized ‘Miss Margai' they are well set to support Sadratu Kamara (Miss Margai), her second runner up Ann Marie Lovina Gegbai and Iye Koroma to win the Miss University this year.Comfort Pratt deputy lady ‘Bird' of Orrylia club MMCET Congo Cross Campus said they will ensure that their candidates definitely clinch University Queen and echoed that they are ready to storm Family Kingdom on that day.

Duba Sesay of Exorexx club Njala University said though they hold the crown of the Miss University Queen, they still want to maintain it. “ We Njala students are beautiful and can articulate well,” she states.Koita of Fourah Bay College said although there is no to contestant from their college, they will be there to socialize in their thousands to grace the occasion.“ I want to visit my dad in Kono but that will only be possible after the contest,” she concludes.

JY leaves Celtel for Celtel

Tanu Jalloh 11/7/2006

Jean-Yves Kouassi-Goly (JY), now Managing Director for Celtel Libreville Gabon , Friday bade farewell to friends, but especially to management and staff of Celtel Sierra Leone he worked with over the past nine months, during a send-off gig organized in his honor at the prestigious Hotel Bamoi on Aberdeen .

Ted Sauti-Phiri, a Malawian who succeeds the Ivorian born telecommunication mogul solemnly though takes the forum to officially bid his predecessor, JY a befitting farewell and subsequently registers his gratitude for having inherited a successful office.

He says in his tribute: “JY came in August last year and in just about nine months he has been able to work out wonders. This is evidence in the marked progress Celtel keeps making in terms of coverage extension at a rate not seen before. He introduced innovative products and added resources including experienced people to make Celtel a success.”

Ted says he is glad JY left him a solid ground on which he hopes to improve with the support of his colleagues at Celtel.Celebrated comedian, Vamboi who enjoyed a long-standing relationship with JY (Mr. Nice Guy), like he has always done in most Celtel coverage across the country, thrilled the crowd with fascinating stories highlighting instances where he made JY laughed with tears running down his cheeks.

A majority of Celtel workers, especially those he closely worked with, paid tributes to JY and Adeyinka on behalf of the administrative department of Celtel presented him a gift in honor of his good work. JY takes the pulpit to say he is concerned given the hugeness of tributes paid to him so far. According to him some of these good words are often said as tributes to somebody who has passed away.

“I am concerned because all you have said about me here sounded like tributes to the dead. I am short for word and do not know where to start. Now let me tell you the secret behind my success. When I went for an interview in Amsterdam they proposed three countries for me to choose one where I would serve as Manager Director. I deliberately chose Sierra Leone ,” he recalled adding that he is very proud of the choice he made which has been a unique experience to him.

“I've spent nine months here during which, and with the support of my staff, I can now catalogue some of these achievements: We've established shops in Central Freetown and in Kissy, Bo Kenema and Makeni in the provinces,” he mentioned.

JY says innovative products like ‘Know It All', ‘Me2U', ‘Win A House' promotions, the launching of several cell sites, Celtel's fifth anniversary celebration, the annual Premier Music Awards, sponsored the Investment Forum in Freetown, pioneered the Celtel experience and introduced Area Sales Managements, increased the number of Sierra Leoneans in senior management positions.

He continued: “We've sent and we'll continue to send our staff for training in the AMP and GMP in Johannesburg , South Africa and in London , the United Kingdom . We also have internal academy to enhance the capacity of our workers. We've published the Tam Tam newsletter on Celtel, established an HIV/AIDS committee, and introduced monthly staff meeting just within nine months.”

Miss University 2006 patron tickets hit the streets

Theodora Renner 28/6/2006

Sierra Leone 's telecommunication giant Celtel has given Miss University the opportunity to use its mobile network to introduce first-of –its-kind facility in the implementation of the Miss University 2006.

On Celtel network, the public will be voting by ‘text message' for their favorite contestants for the Miss University crowning. This will buttress the online voting, which was introduced last year in collaboration with West Africa Dot Net. The SMS voting will commence shortly. The purpose of the voting is to give the public the privilege to have a decision in whom should be the next Miss University .

The SMS (text message) voting and on-line voting via the website will carry a certain percentage of the final results that decides who wears the crown. Income from the SMS voting will be donated to “Pikin Bizness” a non-governmental organization dealing with children in need.

Meanwhile Miss university patron tickets have finally been released.

According to one of the organizers, the cost of a patron ticket is Le 100,000, which he stressed is nothing com pared to what value potential patrons will get for their monies.” Like we said before proper services are in place with delightful fast-food in the forefront of the catering package” he said and continued “ we also have special celebrity appearances who would share experiences and interact with our patrons.”

Premier Media turns five

Moses Kargbo 26/6/2006

The first public relations and consultancy company in Sierra Leone , Premier Media last Friday celebrated its fifth anniversary at a ceremony graced by President Kabbah at the Kimbima Hotel, Aberdeen . The ceremony was climaxed by the president proposing a toast, and followed by a brief statement. In his statement, President Kabbah said the occasion was the first private reception he had attended since becoming president of Sierra Leone , adding: “My being here to night is because of the name Julius Spencer.”

He said during the military interregnum, Dr. Spencer came into the rescue when they were in need of a radio station and someone to lead it. He said Spencer sacrificed himself because of his love for his country and that he played a pivotal role in the restoration of democracy in the country.

President Kabbah said he could not stop Dr. Spencer when he confronted him that he wanted to leave and take a different challenge, adding that the Premier Media boss is like a member of his family and that he was not surprised the company has achieved so much in just five years.

In his remarks, Dr. Spencer said they started on a very low note but that in just five years, they are now a very successful company but not without sacrifice. He thanked staff of the company for dedication and hard work, which he said were responsible for the company's success. Premier Media came into existence in 2001, but the company has its origins in Spence Productions, which is Sierra Leone's leading theatre production company established in 1990 by Dr. Julius Spencer.

Miss Liberia to have interactive session with Miss University patrons 14/6/2006

…Arrives July 15

…Tickets for patrons out next weekFollowing the confirmation that Miss Liberia will be one of the special international guest appearances for the Miss University contest 2006, arrangements have also been put in place for Miss Liberia to have a special interactive session with Miss University Patrons and contestants. The show is slated to take place July 29 2006.The objective of the session is to share inspiring celebrity experiences.Asked why these arrangements are conceived, Anthony Lington, Managing Director of Concord Times Communication pointed out that he wants to make celebrities out of the event as the programme is designed for the crème de la crème of the society.“Sierra Leone has reached a stage where beauty queens should be celebrities but because they lack the ethics and the conduct, they are not treated as such by the people. We want to build these ethics and conducts in young women,” he said and added that the event is one with a class designed to sell Sierra Leone intentionally in a bid to attract investors.Lington says more packages would be rolled out as they are finalized.More organizations are getting interested in the pageant and are helping out with sponsorships.Meanwhile patrons' tickets would be out next week.

Paddy's celebrates with children June 16 14/6/2006

Award wining entertainment complex for 2003, courtesy of All Works of Life (AWOL), Paddy's International Bar and Restaurant, will celebrate its 25 th Anniversary on June 16, 2006. The celebration coincides with the Day of the Africa Child.An afternoon show will be organized for children to lively up themselves, as the management of Paddy's is encouraging the kids to join them in their celebration. Huzo Rex disclosed to Concord Times that the management would be catering for 2,000 children on that day, the celebration started from Sunday 11 th and it is free Entrance to there customers.“We have a lot of goodies for the children in order to remember the Day of the African Child in the country. Entrance to Paddy's that day is free and we'll also be showing World Cup games free of cost,” Huzo Rex says .Paddy's is also promoting l ocal music in the country.Every Wednesday Paddy's organizes talent shows.Paddy's General Manager, Alex Heroe says dancing, miming and quiz competitions would be organized for the children on that day, as the kids will have the opportunity to win very attractive prizes.He noted that they are organizing the ceremony to bring the children together.

… Remembers proprietor Patrick Warren

The management of Paddy's Beach Bar and Restaurant in collaboration with Sierra Leone Brewery Limited will remember the late proprietor of Paddy's, Patrick Warren tomorrow (Thursday 15 June 2006) in a colorful ceremony.The observance would take place at Paddy's Beach Bar and Restaurant.Tomorrow would be the first anniversary of Warren after his death a year ago.

Navo International supports Miss University 2006

Abdul Karim Koroma 31/5/2006

Anthony Navo aka Junior Navo, one of Sierra Leone 's youngest business tycoons Tuesday supported Miss University 2006 beauty pageant by donating electronic items worth millions of Leones . The items include two DVDs, Microwave Oven, Video TV, Bread Maker, two Bread Toasters and Hair Dryers.

Welcoming the organizing committee of Miss University at his Siaka Stevens office, Junior Navo assures the organizers that as a philanthropist who has passion for socio-educational development he would continue to support such laudable ventures as Miss University .

He stressed those social activities which involves youth especially those concerning the university community are closest to his heart. “I will always like to identify myself with worthy ventures,” he said.

Fidelis Adele, Special Project Manager of Concord Times thanked Navo's International for the gesture which is exemplary, as the boss of Navo's International is committed to the development and progress of the nation. “Junior Navo is one of the few businessmen who survived amidst difficult economic conditions, his achievements have gone beyond the shores of this country,” Adele said.

Miss University 2006 themed “Beauty For Charity” is slated for July 29 th at Family Kingdom , Aberdeen .

Celtel boosts Miss University 2006

Abdul Karim Koroma 19/5/2006

Miss University 2006 pageant received a big boost when the giant telecommunications company Celtel donated the star prize, which is a Mazda 323. The contest is scheduled for July 29 th at Family Kingdom and this year's event is themed “Beauty for Charity.” Celtel's Marketing Director, Bernard Sisay said their association with Miss University is because his company is undertaking developmental, educational and charitable programmes. “Celtel is synonymous with beauty as it reflects in the quality of service we give to the people,” he said.

Receiving the donation, Fidelis Adele Special Project Manager of Concord Times Communications lauded the management of Celtel for the goodwill sponsorship and stressed that everything has been put in place to make this year's event a success.“Amongst other innovations for this year's contest is mobile phone voting on Celtel and celebrities appearances,” he revealed and added that Miss University 2005 was a huge success witnessed by the crème de la crème of the society.

One policy of Concord Times Communications is to use its events to effect positive changes in the society and we are using Miss University to support charitable ventures through various means,” Adele states. “Hence, we shall use the contest to raise awareness and funds for Pikin Bizness, as we have identified them for its laudable role in the area of charity programmes,” he said.

Other objectives of the event are: bridging the social, educational and political differences among the various universities; to build a national network to foster and maintain peace and love among the youth; harmonize the various existing beauty queens from the different campuses.

Miss University 2006 to expose Sierra Leone .... Fidelis Adele

Abdul Karim Koroma 10/5/2006

Fidelis Adele, Special Project Manager for Concord Times Communications spoke to Abdul Karim Kororma about plans to organize this year's ‘ Miss University ' Beauty pageant. Fidelis, a renowned entertainment consultant in the West African sub region also reveals the success behind what today has become a tradition to all Sierra Leoneans- Miss University .

CT: What is the rationale behind this whole project?

FIA: There exist a number of beauty pageants in the country but no one has been able to exploit the university community. So we decided to organize a contest that will harmonize numerous beauty queens in the academic society. Our objectives are; to build a national network to foster and maintain peace and love among the youth, use the contest as an avenue to bridge the social, educational and political differences among the various university campuses. Finally, to appreciate the unique nature of women.

CT: Where is this year's Miss University taking place?

FIA: At the prestigious Family Kingdom on the 29 th of July, the time is 8.00pm.

CT: The Miss University forms are out, what are the responses that you are getting?

FIA: The responses so far are impressive, since the first Miss University Beauty Pageant was a huge success witnessed by over four thousand people cutting across all ages, every body is looking forward to this year's contest with great expectation. The girls have started picking up the forms; we assure every one that this time we are getting the very best of contestants.

CT: What should people expect in this year's show?

FIA: A better show, of course. Arrangements are also in place to have international guests' appearance like Miss Liberia and other great celebrities to add glamour to the show.

As a matter of policy, Concord Times Communications uses its events to effect positive changes in the society. Therefore Miss University 2006 with theme “Beauty For Charity” will be used to support charitable ventures through various means. ‘Pikin Bizness' has been identified as one such organization in need of funds and publicity. Be reminded that in collaboration with the UNFPA, we were able to raise awareness for HIV/AIDS pandemic.

CT: What are the extra flavours that differentiate this year's show from the last one?

FIA: Many. The charity thing, the fact that most colleges will be represented this time e.g. FBC and COMAHS. Also, there will be mobile network voting through SMS or calls using CELTEL network. Like I mentioned, international guests will be here too. There will be special talents displayed as one of the components of the event. We shall have Internet votes like last year.

CT: This kind of project is capital intensive, how are you getting funds to organize this event?

FIA: We must confess it is very capital intensive, we get assistance from Concord Times and personal funds. There are a number of Corporate organizations we are hoping will come on board, which can take advantage of the event to promote and advertise their products and services. But responses so far, from the corporate organizations are encouraging.

CT: Who are the sponsors for this event?

FA: Our number one sponsor is Sierra Leone 's leading mobile telecommunications giant CELTEL, who has donated $5,000 for the star prize (MAZDA 323 Salon Car) and is also financing the winner to the World Miss University Contest in Korea with $7,000. Other sponsors are Transnational who is donating a DSTV dish and decoder with three months free subscription; Navo International is also donating some electronic items to winners. New Sponsors shall be announced as events unfold.

CT: Miss University 2005 was a success story, what is the secret behind that success?

FIA: Lots of hard work. Uniqueness of the way we organized the contest. Keeping to whatever promise we make to the public. Most of all, we believe in God Almighty.

CT: Are you trying to search for models in the country or you are trying to expose the qualities of University girls?

FA: Not just exposing their qualities but making models out of them. So that we can have a vibrant modeling industry as it is obtainable in other parts of the world is our ultimate dream.

CT: Let me take you back, why didn't Miss University 2005, Christina Kamara travel to South Korea to represent Sierra Leone ?

FIA: Time was not in our favour to meet the deadline for the World Contest, even though CELTEL had opted to sponsor the trip. Korean Embassy in Nigeria delayed the visa application process so we withdrew the visas application for the trip. We hope this year to have Sierra Leone represented hence we are having the contest earlier 29 th July, to be able to meet the date.

CT: How many will beauty queens participate in this year's contest?

FIA: About ten in all, two from each university.

CT: What was your most challenging moment during last year's Miss University show?

FIA: Getting contestants for the event.

CT: What are the prizes for Miss University 2006?

FIA: The star prize is a Mazda 323 Salon Car with state-of- the-art facilities like; dual air bag, air conditioned, alloy wheels, sound system, amongst others and winner represents Sierra Leone in the world beauty contest. There are trips overseas sponsored by various airlines. Other prizes are a DSTV dish and decoder with 3 months free subscription and lots of electronic appliances.

CT: What measures have you put in place to correct some of the lapses that took place during last year's event?

FIA: We have started preparations earlier than last year. This time we are not going to leave any stone unturned. The lapses of last event have been put into serious consideration. Sound security personnel will be put in place. Also we shall employ the best public address system available in the country.

CT: You say Pikin Bizness will be the charity organization that will benefit from this year's event. What benefits are there and how is this happening?

FIA: yeah! Like I said earlier, the theme is “beauty for charity” meaning that we will support charity. Now Pikin Bizness is a venture that most people do not know much about. The sensitization is not enough for a lot of people to know. It has been in the papers but how many grassroots read papers? So one of the benefits is for all ages to know what they are doing and how they have been able to affect the society. Then secondly, we will raise funds for them. They have done so much. Remember the little boy Abu Bakarr who was sent overseas for heart surgery. Another little boy is about to be sent to France for another heart surgery. A 26 year-old adult is also to be sent for kidney operation. They need money for all these.

CT: Sorry I didn't cut you short, but how are these funds going to be raised. What formats are you following?

FIA: It is simple. First, contestants will physically talk to elites for donations and pledges. Also we are talking to CELTEL for them to donate the funds that will be generated from SMS voting to Pikin Bizness. These and many more strategies are put in place to make things happen.

CT: What is your last message to the people?

FIA: Concord Times' mission is to promote and foster peace and love among the people and give Sierra Leone the desired media exposure locally and internationally enough to attract foreign investment for a better future.

MISS UNIVERSITY 2006 “Beauty for Charity”

Mariama Kandeh 8/5/2006

This year's event with the theme “Beauty for Charity” will be used to support charitable ventures. A policy of Concord Times Communications is to use its events to effect meaningful changes in the society. This is why Miss University 2005 was used in collaboration with UNFPA to sensitize and create awareness on the HIV/AIDS pandemic, distributing literature and condoms during the event NaCSA also used the Miss University Special Magazine as a medium to power an HIV/AIDS message for the youth especially of the university age.

However, Miss University 2006 slated for July 29 th 2006 implementation is on course and several sponsors and donors are coming on board to support the annual social, educational and developmental event. One of such sponsors is CELTEL –SL that has donated the first prize, Mazda 323 salon car, 2000 model, power windows, 2 airbags, alloy wheels and fully air conditioned with state-of-the-art music system. CELTEL is also sponsoring the winner's trip to World Miss University contest in Asia . Sierra Leone being represented last year in the world contest was not achieved due to time factor, but amends and new strategies are in place for this year and we have yet signed another franchise agreement with the world organizers.

Also, Transnational, sole agent for DSTV in Sierra Leone has just donated a full package DSTV equipment with three months free subscription to Miss University . This is one of the prizes, which will go to the first runners up in addition to the trip overseas. Navos International has also donated electronic items, which will form part of the many prizes in stock for this year. Many more are yet to come.

One of the special guest appearances will be Miss Liberia who will be a role model to our beauty queens as ambassador of the people. Forms are still available for potential contestants. For support, sponsorship, enquiries call 232-22-226357, 232-30-206946, and 232-76-620498.

A look at K-Man's bio data

Like the rough roads leading to many cliffs of successes attained by celebrities across the world, K-Man, born Mohamed Saccoh started his churlish music career while a pupil at the Ahmmaddiya Secondary School in Freetown. His passion for music formed the single most important driving force coupled with the pleasure he attached to the flavors of songs like R&B, bits of Hip-Hop and raga including freestyles.He grew up as a ‘loverboy' and therefore marveled at classical and sentimental songs of popular music figures in the United States like Back Street boys, West Life, KC and Jojo, Bryan McKnight, Soul 4 Real, R-Kelly and lots more. First he could master was the rudiments of the most eccentric but friendly instrument of a guitar. It wasn't easy at some point for him, especially following his graduation from High school, coz it was going to mean dedicating his time and efforts in their entirety to music. That never formed a clog as was or is the case with people who are not determined. In spite of what would seem an obstacle, K-Man had mustered all the courage and strength in him to forge ahead, sleeping in a single extended apartment bedroom fastened to the main building of their family house on Kissy Road.

From thence he sprung to an incredibly high strata in the then growing post war music industry; it was evident that the commencement of a super stardom was being made though with the faintest of attention he could attract from the showbiz. In a group of three, including of course the sensational C-Jay and Camouflage, K-Man proved the leading vocalist to propel what was then Conscious Knowledge (CK). It was while the trio who formed CK burst out with their debut hit single, ‘Africa in the Paradise Compilation Volume 1, that K-Man's specialty in voice control and densely pack rap lyrics came to be recognized and harnessed to their fullest.

However, this was never a turning point for K-Man. He left for neighboring Guinea to apparently develop on the uniqueness that has been spotted in him. With enough time at his disposal and since he could not find anything worth doing besides music, the youngster made up his mind to go solo. Again this would mean doing all eight tracks that constitute his debut album, ‘Watch U Back' alone. Songs like ‘Bambor'. ‘Watch U Back'. Number 2 and a series of zooks and calypsos instrumentalised to suit any dance hall party, raised the album's liking to the status of a premier.As if to surprise his fast growing and incredible numerical strength of fans he satisfied, he came out with the biggest of bangs, the christening of his second album. ‘Le Wi Make Salone'. On the one hand the album came the right time especially when the need to project the image of the country and build confidence in the international community that Sierra Leone is peaceful and investor friendly was being pursuit.And secondly it was going to lead the musical charts with the highly packed bizz and bazz of state of the earth instruments and experienced engineered hit song, ‘Zagaza'.

Thus the Madinka youngster, now a high school graduate believed music is part of him and with it he can reach the rest of the world. He puts on a shy look apparently as a result of his ability to throw every woman who sets eyes on him hay wired. Handsome and fair in complexioned, K-Man would always raise his right hand thumb to show a sign of oneness. He respects every mien of his numerous fans including even a five-year-old kid who shout his name while he passes by.

The life and times of Daddy Saj

... Talks about fame and his rise to stardom

Joseph Gerald Adolphus Cole aka Daddy Saj, Sierra Leone 's anti-corruption crusader was born in Freetown , Sierra Leone in 1978. Daddy Saj attended the Saint Anthony Primary School and Government Model Secondary School in Freetown where he acquired his secondary school education and later the Freetown Trade Center Institute where he sat to the City and Gales Examination. The musician says he excelled with flying colours.Daddy Saj is a Christian and entered into the world of music as a chorister at the age of 7. He started going to studio MDC and Island Studios at the age of 11.In 1997 when the government of President Kabbah was overthrown and the war reached Freetown , he left for neighboring Guinea where he met with a lot of foreign musicians. “I did a lot of beats in Guinea and in 1999 when I returned to Freetown I improved on them,” Daddy Saj said.He then started another episode with Jimmy Bangura aka Jimmy B the godfather of music in Sierra Leone and manager of Paradise Family. Daddy Saj's music journey took a different turn between 1999 to 2002 with songs like Congratulations, Salone Na We Yone, Baby Joe etc.

The Lyrical Warrior parted ways with Paradise Family in 2003 to go solo to set up his own record label, Daddy Saj Entertainment Group with Kallboxx Family he was able to produce one of his biggest hit ever, Corruption E Do So in 2004. He made another break through in the music industry again when he went to London to record his second album Den Say Den Say that sold platinum. “I released another album called Fire 4 Fire on CD and DVD and it is my latest album and also the best,” he stated.In 2003 Saj was awarded for the best music of the year called ‘congratulations.'Daddy Saj won his first award in 2003 as the musician of the year with the song Corruption E Do So and it is highest selling album ever produced by Saj.

Sierra Leone gets another boost again when Saj was rated by the British Broadcasting Corporation (BBC) African Music as the 9 th best musician in Africa for the song Corruption E Do so.In 2004 he was exceptionally appointed to attend the Africa Kora Music Awards in South Africa where he advocated for Sierra Leone to become a nominee to the Kora Music Awards.Daddy Saj says he loves football, martial art and reading novels. And he hates when he loves someone who does not appreciate it.“My happiest moments are when I finished doing my albums in the studio and the time I attended the Kora Music Awards in South Africa . My turnoff is that I hate to sin and dishonest people,” Daddy Saj noted.

Emerson ‘Borbor Bele' sacks manager, Bolo…Set to release Two-Foot ‘Arata'

: Abdul Karim Koroma

Emerson Bockarie of ‘Borbor Bele' fame has sacked his manager and president of Supreme Inc Record label, Lawrence Spencer- Coker aka Bolo, Concord Times can authoritatively reveal.Emerson has warned Bolo to desist from negotiating music contracts on his behalf.“Bolo is no longer my manager. I have no business with him,” Emersion said and noted that the contract between the two of them is over.The ‘Borbor Bele' star fell out with his manager upon their return from the US recently. Asked what prompted the separation between the two, Emerson declined to comment but maintained that he parted ways with Bolo as a result of corruption.When Concord Times put it to him that it as because he did not rip anything from their concerts in the United States of America and any royalties from the sale of his debut album ‘Borbor Bele,' Emersion replied, “ that is between the two of us and that is what people are saying. All what I know is that Bolo has ceased to be my manager. ”Supreme Inc sources disclosed that after the tour Bolo was busy manufacturing all sorts of reasons as to why he should not give anything to the musician from the proceeds they made from the tour.Reports reaching Concord Times' Gospel of Entertainment from Cassette Sellers Association maintain that the royalties Emerson's ‘Borbor Bele' album accrued was allegedly siphoned by Bolo.Bolo Thursday downplayed the issue saying the story is not worth publishing when contacted by Concord Times.“I am a journalist. I was not sacked by Emersion,” he said and noted that people don't seem to understand the issues surrounding the whole deal.“I am still the president of Supreme Inc,” Bolo fumed and stated that when the British football icon, David Beckham moved from Manchester United to Real Madrid no one was sacked.

He explained that Emerson has a choice to leave Supreme Inc for any another record label and argued that the artiste released his video compact disc Monday under a different record company.Meanwhile the long awaited second album of Emersion Two- Foot ‘Arata' will be released very soon, he told listeners of ‘Night Line' UN Radio this week.Emerson rose to stardom in late 2004 when his album ‘Borbor Bele' was released. He is now a household name in the country.

As Emmerson ends tour in US. …Borbor Bele DVD out

Emmerson Amidu Bockarie while on tour in the United States revealed to his fans who are waiting in anticipation for his No.2 album that very soon the Borbor Bele DVD, will hit stores both in the US and Sierra Leone.Emmerson Amidu Bockarie, the young and talented musician of Sierra Leonean origin and Borbor Bele fame, continues to mobilize his Sierra Leonean kinfolk through music. This was evidence in his successful US tour that ended on November 27th, 2005. Sierra Leoneans are developing a sense of Nationalism both at home and in the Diaspora. If music becomes the medium or channel in which Sierra Leonean patriotism and nationalism is borne (or re-born), then the least we can do is try to support and nurture its path.

The tour which spanned nine states ( DC, MA, MN, OH, PA, NJ, CA, GA, and MD), including multiple shows in the Maryland and DC metropolitan area.The message in the Borbor Bele album breeds a sense of unity among Sierra Leoneans without even realizing it. For example, in a classic act of demonstrating patriotism, a popular guy in the DC metro area branded a flag of our country during the first show at Zanzibar (a night club in Washington , DC ) and few minutes later he handed it to a Sierra Leonean activist, Ms. Isata Kabia, who also waved it around for a few moments... At this point there was demonstrating a sense of nationalism, perhaps without even being aware of it. But in retrospect it was obvious. At a later date in New Jersey , Sierra Leonean nationalism again was illustrated when people fought over the few green, white and blue flags that were available. It was a revelation that in spite of all our recent troubles and that the UN has for 5 years in a row or so, ranked us as the most underdeveloped country in the world, Sierra Leoneans can still be proud. Through music Emmerson has brought this back to Siera Leone.There was an overwhelming support from the African Community, especially among Sierra Leoneans and Liberians (word is out there that Liberians believe that Emmerson is one of their own). As Sierra Leoneans we should not take offense to that but embrace their interest in our country man. Especially when we plan to elevate him to international stardom…

The audience at the various locations were consistently treated to a high level of performance, as he belted his lyrics, filled with Socio-economic commentary, and wonderful dance tunes that always left them screaming for more. In one instance during the show at Zanzibar he dared to jump in the midst of screaming fans (mostly women) who pounced on him for a piece… Security had to free him from the wolves and he was brought back on stage. The last show in Maryland was a family show, and was specifically geared towards kids. The show was interactive, as Emmerson held a singing and dancing contest for them. It was amazing to watch these kids, who can't speak krio, sing his songs with such accuracy.Emmerson's freshman album transcends race and national origin. The tone for the entire album was set in the introduction in which the artist was being interviewed by no other than the extraordinary Velma Richards. His emotions are profoundly portrayed in his lyrics, as he takes his listeners on his personal journey. His humility and unassuming confidence have made him very appealing to a broad range of demographics (from the young to the very old, male, female, etc. As he was mostly liked by middle-aged women). Hence it was no surprise, when a writer of the Boston Globe, one of the world's most reputable newspapers, named it as one of the top 10 CDs of 2005 (ranked as number nine to be exact).

As people continue to savor this masterpiece, and eagerly await his sophomore album, which is believed to also captivate his millions of fans all over the world. The response among Sierra Leoneans portrays this young man, arguably, as the most celebrated musician / entertainer of all times. Again, we conclude with the fact that there is a message in the music of Emmerson Bockarie, and it is not about la-di-da that we have been accustomed to.As Salone music continues to evolve, we look forward to showcasing more of our talented artists in the international arena. The pace has been set by a pioneer of change.

Gulama

Cotton Tree magazine to be launched

One of Sierra Leone 's magazines, the Cotton Tree magazine is to be launched in the United Kingdom February 19,2006, a statement from the editorial team states.The launching of one of Sierra Leone 's finest glossy magazines is expected to bring many Sierra Leoneans across the UK closer to witness the event.

The Cotton Tree is launching its spectacular second edition at Aylesbury Youth Centre, Off Thurlow Street, Inville Walk, London SE17 2HY, on February 19, 16.00 – 20.00.The event is expected to attract many well-known Sierra Leoneans in the Diaspora, like Musician King Masco, former Mayor of Southwark Mr Blango, representative from the Sierra Leone High Commission, Mano Vision Chief Editor Ade Daramy, Mr Ojukutu Macaulay of the Africa Week magazine including many Sierra Leonean organizations in the UK and also non-Sierra Leoneans.The main purpose of this quarterly magazine is to inform, entertain and engage with Sierra Leoneans about issues relating to post war Sierra Leone . Since the publication of our very first issue last year, we've had warm responses from our readers - we've listened to them and we are pleased to announce that extensive improvement have been made on several areas of the magazine, which we hope would not only increase our readership, but would provide satisfaction to their taste.The Cotton Tree is run by young and dynamic Sierra Leonean writers, both at home and abroad, who are determined to bring across a perspective of Sierra Leone which will provide citizens with the information they need to navigate the society.Meanwhile, The Cotton Tree was hailed at one South London home, when the editor Unisa Dizo-Conteh delivered surprise gifts and some copies of the first issue to families and friends who were celebrating Christmas last year.

‘We are trying to unite Salone , Liberia through

Music and sport'…. DJ Boxx

Vice Chairmen of Kallone of Group of Companies (KGC), Abu Barkarr Konteh aka DJ Boxx said that the aim of the peace and unity event was to unite Sierra Leoneans and Liberians through music and sports.DJ Boxx says the Sierra Leonean and Liberian musicians thrilled all the music fans that attended the show to perfection.“The entertainment at the National Stadium last Wednesday was endless and who ever graced the show were really happy, as they got what they wanted from the show,” he said and noted that music is a vehicle to unite people.“I was glad to see the Liberian artistes performing even though they lost one of their colleagues in a road accident. This is a show of support to tell the world that the wars in Liberia and Sierra Leone are over,” he assured.

He explained that the event was not organized to raise money but the proceeds from the show would be donated to the cause of the children in Sierra Leone and Liberia .“You know that George Opong Weah is UNICEF's Goodwill Ambassador and Mohamed Kallon loves children. They want to improve the plight of children in Sierra Leone and Liberia . The children are our future leaders,” DJ Boxx noted and maintained that this is the first time such an important occasion is taking place in the country after years of war and political instability.A lot of people Gospel of Entertainment talked to during the show expressed their delight about the initiative by KGC to organize this wonder event in the country.“We are very thankful to DJ Boxx, Mohamed Kallon and George Opong Weah. This is a clear indication there are people who still love Sierra Leone ,” Jane Johnson stated and called on KGC to continue to organize such events in the country.

Miss Julie to release new album March 4

Miss Julie (real name Juliana Conteh), a new kid on the block is set to release her debut album March 4 at Josben Complex in a live musical concert.Miss Julie who got her musical inspiration form listening the songs of female American musicians says music is her calling.

“I also got inspiration from local musicians like Adel of Jungle Leaders, Pupa Bajah and Baw Wow Society,” she said.Miss Julie's album contains ten tracks including rest of life, sexy pretty lady, brand new day, lef me man, baby, don't think and Mama. Miss Julie says she came into Music after growing with deep admiration for stars like Whitney Houston, adding that she was a kid when she got the inspiration. She maintains that her album has the theme of love and awareness of the pains women are going through in love relationships. Miss Julie also laments that to produce an album music costs a lot, as it involves so much pains since one has to get sleepless nights .She expresses thanks to God for having a good a promoter who has always been there for her. She noted that the track “Mama” talks of the love and respect one must have for our mother .She said the album contains tracks like dance hall, regae, hip hop, and African. The album will be out on sale two weeks before the launch and she decided to launch it at Josben because she hails from Brookfields and she wants to entertain her people.

Pupa Baja and Bow Society: Cheap American back street life

The behaviour of Pupa Baja and Bow Wow Society is really becoming unbecoming if I may say the least. Their behaviour clearly depicts cheap American back street life, which is an exported life style here.

I want to remind these musicians that Sierra Leone is a country governed by law and not a jungle where the strong survives.

Even if their songs are conscientising a lot of Sierra Leoneans at home and abroad that does not qualify them to walk into a studio and damage equipment alleging that the studio is pirating their albums Angel and Fertilizer.

Even in Europe and America when artists suspect that a certain record label is pirating their songs, they would file a lawsuit against that music firm even though they have all their evidences to prove their case in court. They would not organize their fans to cause mayhem.

A lot of musicians including Michael; Jackson, New Edition, Pet Shop Boys, Brook Shinnston and the E Street Band, Kool and the Gang have dragged music firms to court. In the early 1990's 2 Live Crew led by Chris Kid Ice Wong One won a court case against a notorious American gang named MARTINE.

After the court ruling they released a song titled Fuck Martine.

The reason why musicians are suing record labels in those countries is because the people are educated and civilized.

We can't have uneducated people like Pupa Baja and Baw Wow Society trying to victimize others. It would not work.

Dr. Julius Spencer, Managing Director of Premier Media during his days as Minister of Information and Broadcasting kept on saying that ‘you can't have a bunch of illiterate persons trying to impact knowledge on others.'

I am bringing all these examples in order to help Pupa Buja and Baw Bow Society try to behave them selves in decent manner. The days of mob or jungle justice are over in this country. Our courts are here and our magistrates, and judges want to listen to the arguments of lawyers. This is all part of the democratic process.

It was Sierra Leonean born and American based musician, Kaode Denero that first blew the whistle telling Sierra Leoneans that Pupa Baja and Baw Wow Society are living a cheap American back street life in Sierra Leone after he was attacked by hired thugs of Forensic Records. Some sections of the public were quick to dismiss him as a Jay Cee musician fighting for recognition. Pupa Baja and Baw Wow Society hunted Kaode Denero in his motherland like a cat chasing a rat.

People started believing that these guys are gangsters after the incident at Binta's Beach Bar when the manager of Forensic Studio, Dutch Greene (real name David Sesay) led thugs to abduct a teenager at Banana Water, Murray Town . The young adult was whisked to their Hill Station Studio where his head was allegedly shaved with a bottle. Imagine that in modern day?

We are bringing all these sad episodes to the attention of the government in order to put a halt to the excesses of these Frankenstein monsters in our midst.

Sierra Leone is a country emerging from war and such behaviors from musicians must not be tolerated.

We have said it.

Liberia, Salone Musicians battle February 1 2006

Fifteen Liberian and Sierra Leonean musicians are expected to battle for supremacy at the Peace and Unity concert slated for February 1 2006.The event will take place at the National Stadium and Kallone Group of Companies (KGC) is organizing it.Abu Bakarr Konteh aka Dee Jay Boxx, Vice Chairman of KGC says the occasion is to usher peace in the two countries after years of war and political instability.

“The concert will feature 15 of Liberian celebrated musicians with their Sierra Leonean counterparts that day,” Dee Jay Boxx said and adds that Liberia 's opposition leader George Opong Weah came along with the artists by road from Liberia .He explained that music is a very important vehicle to unite people with diverse opinions and Opong Weah is using the occasion to tell the world that the civil wars in the two countries have ended.

“This is a charity show and it is the first time such an event is been organize in this country,” he says and called on all music lovers to support this worthy cause geared towards the emancipation of children.The public, he said, would have the opportunity to see artists like Father Thug, Jungle Leaders, Daddy Saj, Manzu Avec C-bolt, Base Aphonyx, Cee Jay, Vida, Willie Jay, SQB of More Fire fame, Wan pot Sojaz, Willo Wise and a host of other leading musicians will be sweating it out with the Liberian artists.“The objective of the show is to serve as a boost to the country's peace process. Kalleone Group of Companies is supporting anything that will enhance our peace,” he said and continued, “the Chairman of KGC Mohamed Kallon and I are peace loving Sierra Leoneans, and our aim is to see the Sierra Leone develop.”

Social Critique - With the Sage

Pupa Baja threatens a journalist?

Somebody was already going to argue me bitterly apparently out of the proof that he was Pupa Baja's fan. He even tagged me a misanthropist who would never rejoice at the achievements of other people. Certainly, he'd proved incorrigible and had played the blackguard attitude with a strong show of hatred at my attempt to explore the details of Baja's threat to a journalist who merely tried questioning his alleged involvement in a gang raid.It was extremely difficult convincing him that I've only been meticulous and concerned about the growing spate of misdemeanor among musicians, especially those who got drunk with the ‘star phenomenon.' Baja could never be an exception to the bunch of some of the so-called musical stars whose malady turns chronic when they perceived themselves extremely important.

This obsession of being perceived a star musician is supposed to make musicians see their role as challenging as ever in their quest to realize their dreams. But recent attitudes as exhibited by musicians, especially those at the Forensics studio and whose modesty have been compromised by the orientation they got from their manager's tutelage of a thug. Yes, the ill display of Western hoodlum life, which Dutch Green who manages them, has indoctrinated them into. It will cost the likes of Baja, and his cohorts at Forensics Studio, a great deal; and by extension, their joint reputation and career too.The journalist who tried interrogating Baja following allegations that the latter had ganged up with props from other cursory Forensics cusses to vandalize a recording studio, Affix Recording Studio on Kissy-bye-pass Road, suspected of pirating or dubbing for racketeering purposes, their latest albums could not control his temper. How funny it would sound should the country ‘s prospective human resources like Baja and his likes whose songs beat so loud that it could now be heard in the overseas clubs, bars, and soirees, especially among Sierra Leoneans in the Diaspora.Lets say the journalist, Abdul Karim Koroma, who he threatened while interrogating him posed prying and suspecting questions, he could have employed the celebrity mien that is typical of most musical maestros and movie superstars across the world. Or is it because the journalist may have sounded very aggressive? If at all that was the case, then I think the interviewee lacked the courtesy to have realized the fact that stammering voices are never polite. Not when they sounded very desperate, inquisitive or in common instances, interrogative.

With all intents and purposes, this column is established specifically to weigh the conducts of our social players. I mean our musicians whose fortunes in recent times have placed them in the limelight of social, political, and economic interaction. The music industry grows at an incredible velocity and keeps pulling good news. Players even sponsors news articles and opinions in their favor and in the process many mindsets, especially in the print media, ignore the other side of them; their follies, mistakes, weaknesses, and suggest possible remedy.This is how “Social Critique” would like to caution the likes of Pupa Baja and all prospective humbugs. Issues such as Baja's recent attack on Affix Recording Studio without going through the due process of law could not be far from allegations that Baja and his likes sniff brown, puff hemp (jamba) and patronize intoxicants. It is on record that he most times smokes his usual self behaves violently. If I'd suggested anything to them before, they must not take the laws into their own hands.

£500,000 guesthouse opened

Minister of Tourism and Culture, Okere Adams Tuesday at the Sir Samuel Lewis Road , Aberdeen , opened the five hundred thousand pounds Raza Guest House.

In his opening address, the minister said that people are responding to President kabbah's call for development in the country. “The sole proprietor of the guest house has in his own way positively responded to this call,” Adams said adding that he has done so well and deserves commendation.

Adams recounted that as the country is emerging from an 11-year brutal civil strife, the peace which we are now consolidating could never have been possible without the approval of the wise leadership, patience and tolerance of President Kabbah coupled with the cooperation of the international community.

He said that tourism would grow through the effort of government, because successful tourism creates job opportunities, income generation, poverty alleviation, social harmony, economic recovery and overall sustainable national development. The minister urged all to take advantage and invest in the Tourism industry.

Alusine Lewally, proprietor of the guesthouse in his comments revealed he got the money from a loan incurred in one of the banks in England , after staying there for over 19 years. He said that his guesthouse is one of the modest in price thinking of the facilities installed, for having a double suite for 90 USD dollars and single suite for 50 dollars.

Ambassador Foya says Jennifer Lopez is not better than K-Man, Jungle Leaders

Sierra Leone Ambassador to Liberia, Patrick Foya Monday said in Monrovia that superstar singer Jennifer Lopez is not better than our own local icons K-Man, Jungle Leaders and others.

He made this disclosure when the group and solo artists paid a courtesy call on him at his Embassy on 15th Street, Sincoh, Monrovia, Liberia.

Stars and guests of Unmil will be participating at the free concert on the 21st of September, which is the International Day of Peace.

Foya lauded the great strides the musicians are making by putting the country on the musical map. He said, it was just because of promotion that Jay-lo who grew up like any other person in the Spanish locality of Bronx , New York was able to make it big in music and he compared the talent of our stars to Jennifer Lopez and perhaps even better.

He paid glowing tributes to other stars like late S.E. Rogie and Salia Koroma.

Leading the delegation was Unmil's Community Outreach Boss Kingsley Lington Ighobor who said the concert was aimed at bringing all the 22 Presidential Aspirants together in order to commit themselves to a non-violent conduct of the forthcoming elections on the 11th of October this year.