In the heat of the growing debate about the extent some Ghanaians go to ‘slay’ at various events, I’m doing a throwback feature on how some Africans (yes, including myself) dazzled at the 2017 Cannes Film Festival. While different arguments have been made for, and against the need to slay at such events, I hope to share my little view on the subject. I find nothing wrong with looking good and making an appearance. But for me, my issue is the importance people attach to it and the extent they go to make an appearance.
I often use the term ‘slay queen’ derogatorily and I’m sure those who are used to my sarcastic ways would have picked up on it by now (well I guess the incidence where I was compared to Dobby from Harry Porter says it all…wink).
These ‘slay queens’ often than not just want us to remember them for slaying, as though that in itself is a fulltime job. They go to events sometimes with make-up artists on standby, and with their own photographers to conduct a photo shoots at the venue, just to have stunning photos to post on Instagram.
Some of them, sometimes avoid the red carpet because they are not sure what images ‘unofficial’ photographers would capture. I have attended many major events around the world, and watched many such events on TV; and I have never seen international celebrities (from Beyonce to Jennifer Lopez) behave like Ghana’s ‘slay queens’ do.
Let me use Joselyn Dumas as an example. She has been captured looking stunning at various events home and abroad for many years. And all this while, all she has been doing is showing up and looking stunning ‘on the red carpet’.
Now, let me take you to the 2017 Cannes Film Festival where Joselyn Dumas stunned in a lovely Kente gown to the screening of ‘Potato Potahto’. The movie by Shirley Frimpong-Manso had a parallel screening at Le Gray D’albion during Cannes Film Festival.
Joselyn’s co-stars OC Ukeje, Nikki Samonas and Lala Akindoju were also in attendance at the screening. They also took the opportunity to make appearances at Palais des Festivals et des Congrès for main Cannes screenings and premieres.
Also making an appearance was Kenyan Fashion, Beauty, and Travel & Lifestyle blogger, Silvia Njoki.
Perhaps Africa’s most elaborate and media frenzy appearance on the red carpet came from the pair of Tanzanian actor Ernest Napoleon and former Miss Tanzania, Miriam Odemba. Their appearances on various days caught the eyes of the international photographers mostly due to Miriam Odemba’s larger than life sense of style.
I know many people have been asking why Ghanaians go to the Cannes Film Festival anyway. It may seem pointless to just show up and rock the red carpets but the festival also offers a lot of opportunities for actors and filmmakers to network and market themselves.
According to sources, after Harold Amenyah attended the festival in 2016, it opened an opportunity for him to be casted in an upcoming production in South Africa. I also believe that screening ‘Potato Potahto’ at Cannes put Shirley Frimpong-Manso in contact with some people who can market her films or collaborate with in the future.
So I guess all I want to say is that it is important to make grand appearances with a mind-set of gaining from such appearances. 
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Buzz
Davido Inks Partnership with UnitedMasters For His Nine+ Records Venture
Making yet another major power move, three-time GRAMMY® Award-nominated Nigerian global superstar and Afrobeats pioneer Davido has inked a deal with UnitedMasters for his recently launched label Nine+ Records.
In this groundbreaking collaboration, Davido will spearhead artist development, A&R, and behind-the-scenes curation, nurturing a pioneering lineup of artists across the continent under Nine+ Records. United by a shared vision, the teams will work together to introduce and foster talent, amplifying Davido’s influence and extending his reach even further. This partnership marks a pivotal moment in shaping the future of African and world music.
Together, the teams will collaborate closely in order to not only introduce, but cultivate career talent. It only expands Davido’s influence and reach.
Read Also: Davido gifts fan $50k to payoff student loans
Of today’s announcement Davido said, “I couldn’t be more proud to partner with Steve and the team at United Masters, this announcement represents an exciting new chapter for developing and established artists around the world.”
Steve Stoute, Founder and CEO of UnitedMasters states, “Over the last 2 years, we’ve proven our commitment to Africa investing in artists, education, and technology. Today, we are doubling down. With this new venture with Davido & the launch of Nine Plus Records, we reinforce our mission in becoming a bridge for artists on the continent. Together we’ll identify & develop new artists while supporting them with brand and synch opportunities.”
Nine+ Records will be announcing more artists and partners in the future.
Last night, Davido just sold out one of the most iconic venues in the world, headlining Madison Square Garden in New York City. He ignited the stage with what will be remembered as a historic set, bringing Afrobeats to the Big Apple in the biggest way possible. In advance of the show, he extensively spoke to Billboard who praised how “Performing in New York has also become a special ritual” for him.
This news also arrives on the heels of various major company announcements for UnitedMasters. The company locked down a high-profile alliance with SymphonyOS and Groover. Plus, it hosted its annual “A Celebration of Independence” GRAMMY® Concert at the Palladium in Hollywood, CA. The show boasted an all-star lineup, including headliner Davido, Uncle Waffles, Tokischa, Donavan’s Yard, and NLE Choppa. Of the latter, The Source wrote, “This marked the first time UnitedMasters featured international acts, solidifying its impact and representation within the global independent artist movement.”
Stay tuned for a whole lot more soon
Buzz
Court Orders Service Of Notice For DNA Test To Mohbad’s Wife
The Chief Magistrate Court in Ikorodu has granted approval to serve a notice for a DNA test to the wife of late singer Ileriouluwa Oladimeji Aloba, known as Mohbad, at her last known address. (more…)
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Ghana’s New Train from Poland Crashes During Test Run
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I got into music because my crush always associated with musicians – Tiwa Savage
Nigerian songstress turned filmmaker, Tiwatope Savage has disclosed that she became a musician because she had a crush on a “guy” who was always around musicians.
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Mr. Drew Addresses Allegations in JAMROCK EVENT CENTRE’s Lawsuit
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