Monthly Archives: February 2025

Entertainment News, Interviews, Music, THE DEBUTANT

Rara Avis With Blinkz Baba: The Pro Performer.

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Darlington Alas Asaba, whose stage name is Blinkz Baba, is a multihyphenate creative as is expected of any creative affiliated with Rara Avis. Blinkz is a singer, songwriter, event planner, hype mc, and DJ. He is an astonishingly talented singer and songwriter. One of his songs which stands out and is easily recognizable is his hit song ”Omotena“!

This culturally infused track, with its captivating rhythm, melody, and lyrics, is guaranteed to get you moving! Its heartfelt tribute to an anonymous female figure resonates with women of all kinds. Celebrating the strength and beauty of womanhood, this song makes a perfect dedication from any man to his special someone – no need to change a single name in the lyrics

Rara Avis on Blinkz ”Omotena”

Blinkz has been an integral part of Rara Avis, right from the inception. He doesn’t quite fit into the debutant profile, -though he’s a fast emerging artist- because he has had some performance opportunities prior to signing up.

He is a full powerhouse… Rara Avis’ Golden Creative! Yes! He is usually the last artist to perform because just like in a relay, you want to save the best for last to make up for lapses from other team members.

Blinkz never disappoints with his performances. He always gets a standing ovation at hugely packed events. He was part of our entourage to SMA Nigeria. see link

Last year, Blinkz made it to the finals of a music themed reality TV competition ”Naija Star Search” organized by Startimes with the support of Trace Naija: Trace Naija‘s parent company is Trace Africa .

Blinkz Baba performed on season 2 of Naija Star Search on ST Nollywood Plus on Saturdays at 8 PM.

INTERVIEW

Here Rara Avis talks to Blinkz Baba about his experiences prior to and post competition:

Pre-Competition Experience

Rara Avis :  What motivated you to sign up for the Naija Star search competition?

Blinkz Baba : I was motivated because i am a talented singer and i knew i have what it takes to compete.

Rara Avis : Can you share your musical background and experiences before entering the competition?

Blinkz Baba : Before entering the competition i was already doing music professionally : I had put out a body of work and was going out for gigs.

Rara Avis :  What were your expectations from the competition, and did you have any prior experience with music competitions?

Blinkz Baba : My expectations while in competition was to gain new knowledge, better approach to live performance and also to emerge as the winner.

Competition Experience

Rara Avis :  How would you describe your experience as a contestant on the show? 

Blinkz Baba : It was a bit tough having to meet different personalities and to have to work as a group to perform a song … but in the end , it made me even better.

Rara Avis :  What were some of the most challenging moments for you during the competition?

Blinkz Baba : Some of the most challenging moments in the competition was have to nominate my fellow contestant for eviction and also getting to do unfamiliar songs and having just a day to score it … and perform same day.

Rara Avis :  How did you handle the pressure and stress of performing live and being judged?

Blinkz Baba : It wasn’t as much pressure for me because I was already used to performing in front for thousands of people. 

Career Impact

Rara Avis :  How has being a finalist on the competition impacted your music career?

Blinkz Baba : Becoming a finalist has helped me in gaining more attention and connection. It was a career boost for my music…price went up.

Rara Avis :  Have you seen an increase in fan engagement, bookings, or collaborations since the show?

Blinkz Baba : Yes, absolutely, especially in terms of booking

Rara Avis : Can you share any notable opportunities or achievements that have arisen as a result of your participation? 

Blinkz Baba : As result of my participation, I have worked with Trace TV on several occasions. I had a meeting with the popularly known singer, Oxlade, I am working on a distribution opportunity with Nigerian hiphop first lady her self, Sasha P, I also got special branding tips from Vector and international producer Cobahms .

Lessons Learned

Rara Avis :  What were some of the most valuable lessons you learned from your experience on the show?

Blinkz Baba : I learnt to put in creativity during my stage performances. I learnt music writing.

Rara Avis : How did the competition help you grow as an artist, and what skills did you develop? 

Blinkz Baba : It helped grow my confidence, how to handle a microphone properly and to always leverage on being on camera at all times.

Rara Avis : Are there any specific feedback or critiques from the judges that have stuck with you and influenced your music?

Blinkz Baba : Yes the judges told me to also use my vocal strength, and they see me rocking Jazz festivals around the world.

Yes the judges told me to also use my vocal strength, and they see me rocking Jazz festivals around the world.

Blinkz on Judges’ remarks

Personal Growth

Rara Avis :  How did the competition affect you personally, and what did you learn about yourself?

Blinkz Baba : I learnt and discovered that I could actually sing better than I thought I could because the competition allowed me to push myself to the limit and discover my potential.

Rara Avis :  Were there any moments of self-doubt or uncertainty, and how did you overcome them?

Blinkz Baba : I was in a competition with so many talented singers and sometimes when I hear them sing,I have that fright … but in all, I remained confident of myself and delivered.

Rara Avis :  How has your experience on the show shaped your perspective on success and perseverance?

Blinkz Baba : My participation in the show has helped me believe in my creativity, in music and i see success closer than I ever did before!

Future Plans

Rara Avis :  What’s next for you musically, and are you working on any new projects?

Blinkz Baba : I just dropped a new song titled Cold available on all platforms. I am also in the process of putting out my first EP soon where I will be collaborating with some talented creatives like myself.

Rara Avis :  How do you plan to leverage your experience and exposure from the competition to further your career?

Blinkz Baba : With the experience I have gotten from the competition I plan to use all what I have learnt and put it in my music … and of course collaborate.

Rara Avis :  Are there any specific goals or milestones you’re aiming to achieve in the next year or two?

Blinkz Baba : Yes. In the next two years my prediction is for my music to have gone global and get that full attention it deserves.

Reflection on Rara Avis

Rara Avis :Did Rara Avis have any impact on your career prior to going on Naija Star Search?

Blinkz Baba : Rara Avis has always been the backbone to my experience in stage performances and branding.

Rara Avis : What do you think that Rara Avis should do to help prepare artists who want to go on competitions such as Naija Star Search?

Blinkz Baba : I think Rara Avis should keep doing what its already doing … that is training creatives, take them for performance tour and also encourage artist to better their craft.

Rara Avis : ⁠Would you recommend Rara Avis to emerging artists? Why? 

Blinkz Baba : One simple reason is because Rara Avis is part of my music success today. One thing I know is that with Rara Avis your growth is certain!

One simple reason is because Rara Avis is part of my music success today. One thing I know is that with Rara Avis your growth is certain!

Blinkz on Rara Avis

As a multihyphenate creative, you have to keep pushing like Blinkz is. He is a phenomenal artist and a powerhouse on stage. However, there’s still a lot to be accomplished because he hasn’t even tapped into a quarter of his talents!

Watch some of Blinkz‘s performances at Naija Star Search.

OrIGINAL vIDEO
Blinkz intro NSS2
sTARTIMES fACEBOOK on NSS2 FINALE
BlinkZ pERFORMANCE ON nAIJA STAR search
Naija Star search blinkz performance video
Tiktok Perfomance Naija Star Search
Links to music : https://audiomack.com/blinkzbabyy/song/original?share-user-id=29594951

To book him for shows or as a songwriter contact

Entertainment News, Interviews, Music, Rara Avis Insider, Spotlight, THE DEBUTANT

Oba Lurge

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Rapper, Oba Lurge speaks with Rara Avis

We had a conversation with Oba Lurge, one of Nigeria’s foremost consistent rappers, who has participated in a plethora of creative adventures, from winning rap battles and creative competitions, to establishing a string of creative businesses: St. Anthony -a clothing brand and Equip Your Studio -platform that sells equipment to Cinematographers and others; to representing and funding himself as an independent artist, as a result to him having a rich and enviable music catalogue, which boasts of featuring the best in the game : emerging and established artists; to pioneering a creative business centered podcast “4DACulture” , and more. The list is literarily inexhaustible! Oba Lurge often makes you wonder what the next creative venture he has up his sleeves!

Model

St. Anthony

Oba Lurge

At The Plug PR event

Our aim, in this Rara Avis specially curated interview, is targeted towards helping emerging artists have insight to the entertainment industry through Oba Lurge’s lenses: to understand what drives him, share in his experiences in the industry, get advice for positioning and use his story as inspiration to continue to create, regardless of circumstance.

INTERVIEW

Rara Avis : What sparked your passion for music, and how did you get started in the industry?

Oba Lurge : I ask myself this question a lot and I never seem to find an answer. I remember long before I clocked 6… if you’d remember all those cassette players they always had a red or a black button you could press to start recording?.. Yea, I messed with a lot of my parents cassettes rapping bullshit lol. Then sometime in the early 2000s, my elder brother introduced me to American rapper Fredro Starr and his music touched me in a way nothing else did. Fast forward a few years later, my elder brother was making music and I think that robbed off on me even after he stopped. And just 3 years ago, I found out my great grand father “Ojua Ojupan” made music! I think it’s in the family ’cause I see some of my nephews rapping already. I even have a song with one of them, Bryan on my 2021 project Sorry For The Wait.

Rara Avis : Who were your earliest influences, and how did they shape your sound?

Oba Lurge : Funny enough my earliest influences were the likes of Dolly Parton, Kenny Rogers, Jim Reeves and Fela ’cause my mom was a huge fan of their music… then much later Fredro Starr, Uncle Snoop, Nas, Pac and Hov. I think they shaped my sound in a way that I always have to make sense when I write my lyrics unlike what we hear all over the place lately.

Rara Avis : Can you walk us through your process for crafting a new song or album?

Oba Lurge : I hardly ever write my lyrics before heading to the studio. Most of the time, I just explain to my producers the vibe that’s in my head and let the beat that they make provoke the melody and tell me what to say! Making albums is some of my favorite things to do ’cause I really enjoy telling stories as an art form

Rara Avis : What are some common mistakes you’ve seen emerging artists make, and how can they avoid them?

Oba Lurge : Chasing people. lmao , that never works! Realistically each of these prominent guys already have a tight schedule but they’re constantly looking for the next guy with potentials… you most likely lose that chance constantly being in their face seeking validation. But if you build some real value around yourself you’ll attract them. Also people really think it’s just about making music. it’s not! It’s more about marketing it. We all have people we know that make very good music with no traction and we also know some people with garbage music do very well ’cause their marketing is right.

Realistically each of these prominent guys already have a tight schedule but they’re constantly looking for the next guy with potentials… you most likely lose that chance constantly being in their face seeking validation

Oba Lurge to emerging artists.

People really think it’s just about making music. it’s not! It’s more about marketing it.

Oba Lurge

Rara Avis : Can you share an experience where a connection or mentorship helped advance your career?

Oba Lurge : I’m not going to lie to you all my life in the music business and industry, people have helped me; but this happened ’cause I built genuine connections with them long before they were in position. I hardly ever pay for radio and TV promotions ’cause I know people there. They genuinely care in the sense that if I wasn’t making music we’d still have been in each other’s lives so that makes it easy for me to navigate. Where people go to spend millions I could only spend a few thousands.

I hardly ever pay for radio and TV promotions ’cause I know people there.

Oba Lurge

People have helped me; but this happened ’cause I built genuine connections with them long before they were in position…Where people go to spend millions I could only spend a few thousands.

Oba Lurge

Rara Avis : What advice would you give to artists looking to build relationships with industry professionals?

Obalurge : Build genuine relationships bro, offer people value, be there for them even when they don’t need you and that’ll help.

Rara Avis : What’s your take on the current state of the music industry, and how can emerging artists position themselves for success?

Oba Lurge : This is a very tough question but I’m very happy for where it is. A lot of people have been able to change their lives with it and the music has transcended boarders. Positioning yourself, you need 3 things: the music, an image and buzz. It’s quite easy to get the first 2 compared to the later because it requires strategy, planning and some money. If you don’t have a sponsor please get a job or learn a skill cos this is the most expensive thing you’ll probably ever venture into.

Positioning yourself, you need 3 things: the music, an image and buzz. It’s quite easy to get the first 2 compared to the later because it requires STRATEGY, planning and some money.

Oba Lurge

If you don’t have a sponsor please get a job or learn a skill cos this is the most expensive thing you’ll probably ever venture into.

Oba Lurge

Rara Avis : What’s next for you, and how do you see your career evolving in the future?

Oba Lurge : I’m currently working on 2 projects for this year; a mixtape and an album. The mixtape is ready but the album is still in the works. It features some of your favorites and the album art for the album will be made by the Legend Lemi Ghariokwu! That’s the most exciting part for me because this man made over 25 album arts for Baba Fela. What are the odds that he’s working on mine if I wasn’t destined for greatness!

You can read up about Oba Lurge in an earlier post by clicking >> LINK

Art, Entertainment News, Music, SERVICES AND OFFERS

Oba Lurge, the Epitome of Creative Entrepreneurship.

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In our quest to showcase talents who embody the essence of Rara Avis, our radar led us to the exceptionally gifted Oba Lurge. This creative force is not only a powerhouse of artistic expression but also a shining example of entrepreneurial spirit. Oba Lurge‘s unwavering passion for his craft, coupled with his unrelenting drive, sets him apart in the highly unpredictable and often challenging Nigerian creative landscape.

Despite the daunting obstacles that can easily snuff out the dreams of many, Oba Lurge continues to thrive, consistently pushing the boundaries of innovation and artistic excellence.

His success is a testament to his resilience and dedication, serving as a beacon of inspiration for aspiring artists, especially rappers like him, navigating the complex and often unforgiving terrain of the creative industry.

From starting a fashion line St. Anthony, which to quote him verbatim, “It’s not only a fashion line I have o I am very much interested in doing distribution and publishing administration for serious artists”; to owning an e-commerce start up www.equipyourstudio.com , that sells studio equipment for musicians, videographers, photographers and everyone who makes any kind of content, to hosting his own podcast ”4DACulture” and even being credited in his debut in the film industry as a Boom Operator and Foley Artist on the Ebonylife Studios produced movie “Last Operation“, which won Best Location Sound, plus six other award categories.

Male Model

In St. Anthony

Celebrities Paybac & Pizzo

For St. Anthony

In a climate where only a select few manage to achieve success, Oba Lurge‘s accomplishments are a resounding affirmation of his exceptional talent, unwavering commitment, and innovative spirit. He has a music catalogue that many would “die” for, featuring both talented emerging artists and celebrities. His debut album was Milchseber, from which Milchseber Music sprung. He has been in rooms and creative conversations with MI “Mr Incredible” Abaga, Vector “Tha Viper“, iLLBliss “Oga Boss“, Joeboy and more. He has also conducted interviews as an OAP, with the legend Lemi Ghariokwu and Osinachi Nwaneri : music creator for some criticaly acclaimed TV shows like, The Chi, BMF, Ghost, Raising Kanan, Force, Swagger and others.

At Rara Avis, we are thrilled to spotlight Oba Lurge, celebrating his remarkable journey, achievements, and the indelible mark he is leaving on the creative world. Not only that, in a recent interview with him, we sought to understand his inspiration, tapping into key advice and more so, that other emerging artists can learn from his experience.

His story serves as a powerful reminder that, with unyielding passion, determination, and a willingness to push boundaries, even the most daunting challenges can be overcome, and success can be achieved.

Here are some pieces from the latest collection from St. Anthony by Oba Lurge.

You can connect with him on Instagram @Obalurge https://www.instagram.com/obalurge?utm_source=ig_web_button_share_sheet&igsh=ZDNlZDc0MzIxNw==

Get updates on his website, subscribe to his YouTube Channel and enjoy amazing music videos by Oba Lurge.

oBA LURGE’S WEBSITE
yOUTUBE
WatcH c.r.e.a.m

Art, Entertainment News, SERVICES AND OFFERS

Ibrahim Gbadamosi : Rara Avis Creative Spotlight

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Ibrahim Gbadamosi whose name bares a keen similarity with a Nigerian former head of state, Ibrahim Badamasi Babangida , is a trained Geologist from the University of Ado Ekiti, Ekiti State

His first exposure to art was at the popular Ibadan Youth Palace, when he was just seven. He reportedly took his first lessons in elementary Fine Art and Pottery.”

 While still in school, he started producing sheepskin shoes and rugs. His experimentation with sheepskin and synthetic leather led him into mixed media and installation art.

Gbadamosi in the past, subconsciously made strong political statements with his works. His installation, Spoonful of Trouble, was a depiction of the hypocrisy associated with global conflict resolutions while he brought humour to the Iron Lady, a black and white painting of former British Prime Minister, Baroness Margaret Thatcher. On the artwork, he matted a pressing iron to partially mask the identity of the portraiture.

A resourceful Ibrahim, in 2019, while selling some of his artwork on the roadside around the popular Ringroad, Ibadan, was approached by a lecturer at the University of Ibadan. Her interest was piqued by Ibrahim Gbadamosi’s craft.

He was invited by the female lecturer to present his work at the biannual conference of the Institute of Peace and Strategic Studies, which was holding at the university. However, he was sent away by another lecturer, who threatened to call security; when the lecturer who invited him stepped out of the venue.

Today, Ibrahim is an accomplished artist, whose art works previously listed on Rara Avis, have been sold as there’s a high demand for his artworks both locally and internationally. See Sold Listing

Most of Ibrahim’s pieces are one-off pieces as such only a select few would be replicated with variations.

He has Don Corleone as a current listing on Rara Avis.

  • Artwork Title: Don Corleone
  • Size: 48 x 36 inches
  • Medium: Acrylic, stuffed plush cat and artificial flower on canvas
  • Provenance: 3yrs
  • Category: Modern contemporary

Price Available On Request Contact Rara Avis

Art, Entertainment News, Photography, SERVICES AND OFFERS, Spotlight, THE DEBUTANT

Meet Photographer, Kingsley N.

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Rara Avis Talks to Kingley N

We are throwing it back to an old interview Rara Avis had with Kingsley N! It’s been 3 years since this interview. We are delighted to see the great strides he has attained working with Rara Avis and how he has evolved as a creative. Enjoy reading this throwback piece.

RARA AVIS sat with a very talented photographer, Kingsley N to talk about his drive and motivation in the area of photography.

Kingsley N recently exhibited a few of his photography art in collaboration with Rara Avis.

This collaboration is based on some “indigenous” themed photography.

The purpose of the shoot is to preserve certain aspects of the Nigerian culture through photography. Another reason being to highlight how beautiful culture is especially when captured and translated into art.

Enjoy this piece with the very talented and ambitious photographer.

Please tell us about yourself.

My name is Nwokesi Chukwudi Kingsley. My brand name is Kingsley N. I am a professional photographer with over 8years experience. I am a travel photographer. I have been to different states, but worked more in three major states in Nigeria (Benue, Lagos and Anambra) as an outdoor and studio photographer. The vast majority of my work experience is in Lagos – majoring in outdoor photography. 
I am currently working and based in Anambra state.

What makes you stand out from other photographers?

What makes me stand out from others is the ability to go the extra mile and think on my feet.

Hmmm…so what are the important skills you think a photographer should have?

You have to please note that this is what I think so I don’t get misunderstood. (…Laughs) The important skills a photographer should have are one, the ability to create. Two, good communication skills. This is essential because you want to be able to understand exactly what a client wants in the case that you are dealing with a client. Another aspect in terms of my private photography art is I want whoever looks at my work to be able to understand it. Thirdly, the knowledge of photography itself and everything that has to do with it. Knowledge is key!

Now, from your statement, what is the one thing you wished you knew when you started?

One thing I wish I knew when I started? I wish I knew the basics.

Why? Did you have any negative experience?

Yes! Ha! My worst experience as a photographer stemed from it. A client condemned my work (chuckles)…because the picture wasn’t worth it.

What’s the most challenging aspect of being a photographer?

The most challenging aspect of being a photographer is that you have to endure a lot from clients. You have to realize that you can’t please everyone but I try my best too. I’m happiest when I shoot for my own collection like with this collaboration with Rara Avis.

So how do you stay motivated?

 I stay motivated by learning from others and I must state that I have been influenced by few… Kelechi Amadi Obi and Lezonart.

Why did you choose to be a photographer?

 I chose photography because it’s art. I can’t be restricted because it has alot to do with creativity, and it’s fun to do!

Finally, can you explain why you enjoy shooting boudoir photos?

Wawuuu!
(He hesitates before answering the question) I like shooting boudoir because it creates the ambiance of romance with oneself for the subject. It creates a feeling of sexiness in the subject and the subject feels powerful and self confident.  It tells a story of who we really are when we pose cause it sometimes exposes our weaknesses but also our acceptance of it.

Below are some of Kingsley N‘s works.

Kingsley N standard photoshoot charges >> Price available on request

You can find Kingsley N at his studio address at Plaza 1, Eke Oko market, Federal Polytechnic Oko, Anambra State, Nigeria.

He is available to travel.

To see more of his works, follow him on Facebook and Instagram
@Kingsley N tony
or call: 09066463420
              08075659766

To sum this throwback interview up, a lot has changed about Kingsley N. He is now based in Lagos but is available to travel to any part of the world!