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FINAL Lucky Specials poster smallContinuing its international festival run, THE LUCKY SPECIALS will be screened at the Zanzibar International Film Festival on July 12 at 3:30 p.m. The film follows a guitarist and his friends on their journey to catapult their small-time band to the big stage. Entertaining audiences across Africa and around the world with its authentic characters and new brand of African music, THE LUCKY SPECIALS also brings audiences face-to-face with tuberculosis (TB).

The Lucky Specials are a cover band in a dusty town in southern Africa. Mandla (Oros Mampofu) is a miner by day and plays lead guitar by night. He dreams of making it big in the music industry. When tragedy strikes, the band, Mandla and their friend Nkanyiso (Sivenathi Mabuya) struggle to hold everything together.

Produced by Discovery Learning Alliance and Quizzical Pictures in association with HHMI Tangled Bank Studios, with support from Wellcome Trust, Howard Hughes Medical Institute (HHMI), and USAID and PEPFAR through Management Sciences for Health (MSH), THE LUCKY SPECIALS weaves messages into the narrative to help audiences understand and respond to one of the world’s biggest killers – TB – which killed 1.8 million people worldwide in 2015 (more people than died from AIDS-related causes that year). With a unique fusion of live-action drama and state-of-the-art animation, THE LUCKY SPECIALS reveals the unseen world of TB from the inside out.

South African director Rea Rangaka (Ode in Blood) – who will attend the screening – led a phenomenal cast, including musician Blondie Makhene as Mandla’s mentor Bra Easy; Richard Lukunku (Thina Sobabili), Thomas Gumede (A Place Called Home) and Fulu Mugovhani (Ayanda) as Mandla’s bandmates; and Linda Sebezo (Gauteng Maboneng) as a businesswoman who threatens to make The Lucky Specials’ dreams fall apart.

“Media, particularly film, has immense power to entertain, to express emotions and to inform individuals in a way that nothing else can,” said Aric Noboa, president of Discovery Learning Alliance and producer of THE LUCKY SPECIALS. “This film has it all: a new genre of music created specifically for the movie, a great story and a powerful message. We are proud to work with distinguished partners and to bring this story to audiences across Africa and around the world.”

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“When I read the script, it connected,” said Rangaka. “I am drawn to films that have powerful messages, especially when they come packaged in a good story. This story, as well as working with a great cast and crew, made THE LUCKY SPECIALS a deeply personal experience for me; I think audiences will understand and identify with what the characters are going through.”

“Films like THE LUCKY SPECIALS create an opportunity for great storytelling while giving viewers something that they have not seen before,” said Harriet Gavshon, managing director at Quizzical Pictures. “Innovation was key in bringing aspects of the film to life, combining drama with animation.”

“It’s always a great feeling bringing a character to life on-screen, and my character Mandla encounters a complex set of situations that take him down an unexpected path,” said Mampofu. “Figuring out how he evolves throughout the course of the film was fulfilling for me, and I think will be captivating for viewers as well.”

THE LUCKY SPECIALS was honored with awards at the Pan-African Film Festival of Ouagadougou (FESPACO) and has been selected for the Toronto Black Film Festival, the Harare International Festival of the Arts and the San Francisco Black Film Festival.

Music made specifically for the film is available on iTunes. Learn more about THE LUCKY SPECIALS by visiting www.luckyspecials.comor find updates on Twitter or Facebook (@LuckySpecials).

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Screening information: Double Tree by Hilton (Kijiji Hall), Slipway Rd, Dar es Salaam,
July 12 at 3:30 p.m.
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David Oscar adds “Hold On” to His Records on His Birthday

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David Oscar Drops Mesmerizing Visuals for "I am God" on Christmas Day

Ghanaian reggae artiste David Oscar Dogbe has released a brand-new song dubbed, “Hold On,” today April 16th, which also happens to be his Birthday.

This highly anticipated project was created with renowned international producer Stefan Harth, promising a blend of David Oscar’s signature sound with fresh production elements.

“Hold On is more than just a song; it’s a message of hope and perseverance aimed straight at the hearts of the youth. The lyrics were put together for anyone who’s ever faced challenges or dreamt of achieving big things. All you have to do is to hang on a bit longer and don’t give up. Keep working on your dream and it will surely yield fruits,” David shared the reason behind the song with this reporter.

Produced with the help of the talented Stefan Harth, “Hold On” hints at a fusion of genres, creating a soundscape that’s both familiar and invigorating.

This partnership between David Oscar and Harth is a cause for excitement.

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David Oscar, is known for his socially conscious lyrics. Stefan Harth, on the other hand, brings a wealth of experience working with international artists, creating music that transcends borders.

With “Hold On,” fans can expect a song that’s both soothing and meaningful.

David Oscar’s message of encouragement, coupled with Harth’s production magic, has the potential to create an anthem for the youth, urging them to Hold On onto their dreams and keep pushing forward.

Drums were played by Max Buettner, Additional trumpet was played by Kristian Karrasco and bass was commanded by Ghanaian bass player Godfred Swanzy.

If you haven’t heard it yet, get ready for an unforgettable listening experience as you check out and enjoy “Hold On” by David Oscar Dogbe via video below.

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K.Ytee Drops “Life” As He Rebrands

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K.Ytee Drops "Life" As He Rebrands
Budding Hip-hop Act Emmanuel Gyimah, formerly known as Ferrari Boy releases his first single of the year featuring Joey Blaq.
Dubbed “Life”, talks about life struggles and his personal experience as young artist in Ghana.
K.Ytee, born Emmanuel Gyimah, is a vibrant and talented musician hailing from Spintex a.k.a the Bank city in Ghana . Born in April 2002, K.Ytee’s journey into the music world came at an early age. Drawing inspiration from some of the greats like Sarkodie, J.Cole , Kendrick Lamar & Dave.

Growing up, K.Ytee was exposed to a diverse range of musical genres that permeated the Local sense. His unique style puts him on top of the list for up and coming acts who could go on to become greats. Within his music you’ll hear the experience he’s outlived whether it’s rap songs, love songs , drill songs he’s got something for everybody in his discography.

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Geewah shares visuals for new Afrobeats stunner ‘Juice’ featuring Bakilla

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Geewah shares visuals for new Afrobeats stunner ‘Juice’ featuring Bakilla

Geewah and Bakilla pique our interest with a heavenly Afrobeats record guaranteed to make your heart tick. The new song titled ‘Juice,’ drops alongside an equally edgy music video.

Afrobeats keeps getting better and songs like ‘Juice’ reiterate its timelessness. The song’s familiar yet invigorating tone captivates listeners from the first note, drawing them into a spellbinding world where the two artists reign supreme. Geewah’s Dancehall cadence and Bakilla’s honeyed melodies complement FeezeBeatz’s delightful production and there’s plenty to love beyond mere style.

They serenade with beautiful lyrics: “Smooth skin, sweet melanin, only you match my energy/You be my remedy, give me sweet melody. Put you on a pedestal, baby you a ten,” Geewah sings, adding more emotional depth to the song. Putting all that into perspective is a scenic video in sync with the song’s vibe. From vibrant indoor settings to cruising around town and chilling and at the beach, Great Elephant Records makes every moment count.

Don’t miss out on the full experience. Watch the entire video and let Geewah and Bakilla take you on a rhythmic journey.

 

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Nanky shares sultry Afrobeats single with video ‘Duro’

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Nanky shares sultry Afrobeats single with video ‘Duro’

As the cool breezes of April announce fresh beginnings, Nanky presents ‘Duro’–an Afrobeats track filled with refreshing energy. This sultry ode, made for the hunnies, is packed with lots of charisma and emotion that beckons you to listen. The song drops alongside a music video.

Produced by Qweccy Plus, ‘Duro’ emerges from Nanky’s vault of hits as the quintessential anthem to celebrate beauty and its many forms. Its opening–a captivating symphony of synths–whispers directly to the soul, seizing your senses to fill your mind with a magnificent portrait of the African woman.

Nanky’s desirable lyrics and tone quickly capture the moment in its brilliance. His words balance the line between feelings of allure and yearning, infusing the beat with a sexual energy that weaves in a tale of desire–a fitting honor of the grace women possess.

Nanky’s vocals unfurl into a tapestry of beautiful scenes that effortlessly captivate. Yaw Skyface captures the passion between Nanky and his love interest in backdrops that range from artistic to intimate. These special moments are brought to life by the director with vibrant colors, making this video a must-watch.

While ‘Duro’ might translate to “wait” in Yoruba, it is a song that demands your attention. It’s not merely a serenade but an invitation: a call to feel. Don’t just listen, immerse yourself in the delectable rhythms of ‘Duro’ to find out why it is more than a song. Feel the magic now!

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To stay up-to-date with Nanky, go to:

Instagram: iamnanky
Facebook: Nanky
Twitter: @iamnanky

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Ishak Spark Unleashes Visuals for Latest Smash Hit “This Year” featuring Joint 77 and Meo

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ishak spark

Ghana’s rap sensation, Ishak Spark, has finally unveiled the long-awaited visuals for his latest chart-topper, “This Year,” featuring Joint 77 and Meo.

Directed by the renowned videographer, Sir Chopperson, the video takes viewers on a mesmerizing journey into the realm of determination and ambition.

More than just a song, “This Year” stands as a powerful anthem of resilience and hope. It strikes a chord with individuals who have encountered setbacks in the past year but remain unwavering in their quest for success.

Set against the backdrop of an industrial warehouse, the video is a visual spectacle, featuring captivating scenes that perfectly complement the track’s high-octane energy. From captivating shots of alluring models to gritty urban landscapes, each frame exudes a raw intensity that keeps viewers hooked.

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A particularly striking moment in the video sees Ishak Spark amidst the wreckage of an abandoned helicopter, symbolizing the unwavering determination to overcome adversity.

“This Year” is more than just a song—it’s a testament to the power of hope and perseverance. It serves as a poignant reminder that regardless of the challenges we face, we possess the strength to carve out our own path to success.

With “This Year,” Ishak Spark once again cements his position as one of the most captivating talents to emerge from the Ghanaian music scene.

So turn up the volume, press play, and allow Ishak Spark’s electrifying energy to propel you through the year ahead.

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Afrobeats sensation, Abitemi shares endearing new visuals for ‘Prove’

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Rising Afrobeats star, Abitemi is back in the headlines with a breathtaking music video for her recently released single, ‘Prove.’ The much-awaited cut, which arrives three weeks after the song, echoes a heartwarming tale of love. ‘Prove’ is available to stream on your preferred music platform here: https://distrokid.com/hyperfollow/abitemi1/prove

Bangers deserve the best of visuals, and Abitemi rises to the occasion. She collaborates with director Creatrix to bring a fresh perspective to love songs. The video presents Abitemi with her grandparents, whose long-standing relationship inspires her romantic aspirations.

It captures the kind of love she yearns for – deep, steadfast and full of warmth, mirroring the affection she witnessed in her family growing up. The director relays these endearing moments in a variety of vivid colors, reimagining the old couple in their youthful glory as Abitemi serenades the two with her soulful melodies and lovey-dovey lyrics.

“Nothing beats growing old with your significant other,” the singer says. “Creatrix [the director] felt we could tell a more compelling romantic story that will resonate with viewers and set itself apart from others this way and I wouldn’t change a thing looking back because this is what all lovers dream about.”

Abitemi, born Abigail Shiwoniku, is one of the emerging voices blazing the trail in the Afrobeats scene. With two rich cultural backgrounds to tap from – Ghanaian and Nigerian – her music benefits from a unique blend of Afrobeats, Afropop and Highlife fused into other foreign genres to create a sound many can’t help but adore. Since the days of her debut song, ‘Pariwo,’ the singer-songwriter has grown popular among fans and has hit her stride in the industry.

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