Accomplished music artist Mykel Rapsy is set to officially launch his highly anticipated debut book, ‘GIFTED OR CURSED?’, with a unique and insightful three-part podcast special. The series will be recorded live on December 16, 2025, in Lekki Phase 1, Lagos, bringing together Mykel Rapsy and a dynamic panel of seven diverse creatives to delve into the book’s profound musings on the multifaceted challenges inherent in the creative process.
‘GIFTED OR CURSED?’ explores the intricate balance between the passion that drives artists and the obstacles they face, delving into the different types of challenges faced during the creative process. The accompanying podcast aims to provide an unfiltered, candid discussion drawn directly from the experiences of both established and emerging voices in the creative landscape.
The distinguished panel joining Mykel Rapsy includes:
Vybz: Music Artist, Music Teacher, Voice Coach, Songwriter, and Singer.
Humbledann: Music Producer, Music Executive, and Music Artist.
Surpy: Dance Artist, Dance Teacher, and the Originator of Konto Dance in Nigeria, also a Paint Artist.
Bclean: Artist, Songwriter, and Singer.
Ibeh: Singer and Businessman.
Fireman: Music Artist, Event Manager, Songwriter, and Rapper.
Dilo: Singer, Songwriter, and Paint Artist.
The engaging discussion will be expertly moderated by Ermandha, the prominent TV Presenter and Founder of Rara Avis Entertainment. Her experience and insight will guide the conversation, ensuring a rich and impactful dialogue for listeners.
“This podcast series is more than just a book launch; it’s an extension of the conversation I started with ‘GIFTED OR CURSED?’,” says Mykel Rapsy. “I believe every creative, regardless of their stage, will find their truth in these discussions. It’s about shedding light on the often-unseen battles and triumphs that come with pursuing an artistic path.”
The ‘GIFTED OR CURSED?’ podcast special promises to be an essential listen for artists, industry professionals, and anyone interested in the realities behind the glamour of the creative world.
Powered by Lagos Errandboy and Rara Avis.
Further details on how to tune into the live recording or access the podcast series will be announced soon.
About Mykel Rapsy: Mykel Rapsy is an accomplished singer, songwriter, academic writer, mental health advocate, and entrepreneur, serving as the CEO of Lagos Errandboy.
About Ermandha: Ermandha is a prominent TV Presenter and the Founder of Rara Avis Entertainment. She also serves as the Head of Media for The Humour Awards Academy and is a respected Producer and Creative Director.
In a landmark collaboration, the British Council and Africa Creative Market (ACM) have joined forces to launch “Next Level,” an exciting new initiative designed to empower and showcase emerging African music artists.
The program’s mission is to provide rising stars with the tools and visibility they need to thrive in the global music industry. “Next Level” aims to offer a one-of-a-kind opportunity for up-and-coming talent.
The grand prize includes a N3 million cash award towards the production of a music video, a fully sponsored trip to the UK to perform during the British Council’s Creative Economy Week, and an invaluable three-month mentorship with a leading producer or artist. Winners will also gain significant exposure through a post-event PR campaign or a magazine cover feature with ACM.
This initiative is a powerful step towards building a more sustainable and globally recognized African music scene. The partnership with the British Council underscores a commitment to fostering creative exchange and economic growth within the continent’s music sector.
Call for Applications:
Your ‘Next Level’ Awaits!
Are you an emerging music artist ready to take your career to the next level? The opportunity you’ve been waiting for is here.
One Stage. One Break.
Apply now for the “Next Level” music initiative and get a chance to win a fully sponsored trip to the UK for a performance, a N3 million cash prize for a music video production, and a mentorship opportunity with an industry leader. This program is an incredible chance to elevate your craft and gain international exposure.
How to Apply:
The application is FREE and open to all African music artists. Simply visit bit.ly/ACMNextLevel to submit your application.
Don’t miss out on this life-changing opportunity. The application deadline is September 11, 2025.
For more information, you can email Nextlevel@africacreativemarketglobal.com or call +2349167667376.
Follow the Africa Creative Market on social media to stay updated.
INDIEVERSE: Independent Artists in a New World – featuring Celebrity Illbliss, Barr. JDV, Khomeini Bukhari, Timi Dawodu, Barr. Janet Odunoye, Oba Lurge organized by Rara Avis
Rara Avis Entertainment is proud to announce INDIEVERSE: Independent Artists in a New World, an exclusive event designed to empower independent artists with the knowledge and tools needed to thrive in the modern music industry. The event will take place on Tuesday, August 26, 2025, from 1:00 PM to 4:00 PM, at the CEP Creative Hub (CCHub), 8 General Ogomudia Road, Lekki Phase 1, Lagos.
Hosted by Ermandha, Creative Director of Rara Avis Entertainment, INDIEVERSE brings together a powerhouse lineup of speakers, a celebrity guest, and emerging talents to discuss critical topics shaping the future of music. The event will feature a special appearance by legendary rapper and entrepreneur, Illbliss. Attendees will also hear from a distinguished panel of industry experts, including:
Barrister JDV, from Waverly Music (South Africa)
Timi Dawodu, CEO, Genius Creative Brands | Gemumo
Barrister Janet Odunoye, Licensing and Publishing Administrator, The Plug Entertainment
Khomeini Bukhari, Director of the African Division, Peel Aston Global
Oba Lurge, artist, founder of Equip Your Studio, and the first African rapper with a distribution deal with Roc Nation
In addition to the insightful discussions, the event will shine a spotlight on two promising emerging artists. Mykel Rapsy, a musician and author, will discuss his recently published book, “Gifted or Cursed?,” which delves into the challenges faced by creatives. Music artist Soundboy FA will share his growth strategies, including the viral success of his song “Quality Time,” which is currently gaining significant traction and becoming a TikTok trend in Europe and America.
Ermandha, Creative Director, Rara Avis Entertainment
“INDIEVERSE is more than just a conference; it’s a call to action for every independent artist looking to build a sustainable career,” said Ermandha. “We’ve gathered some of the most influential minds in the industry to provide practical, real-world advice on everything from distribution and publishing to personal branding and creative strategy. This event will be a game-changer for anyone serious about their craft.”
Rara Avis Entertainment is a dynamic creative company dedicated to discovering, nurturing, and promoting unique talent. It focuses on multihyphenate debutant and emerging creatives.The company specializes in creative career strategy and management, creative showcase, content production, and creative consulting, with a mission to help artists build lasting legacies in the global entertainment landscape.
About Barr. Joseph Damola Victor [JDV]
With over seven years of specialized legal experience, Damola Joseph has established himself as in-demand entertainment lawyer, competently representing artists, producers, record labels, and music distribution companies. Damola, being a skilled negotiator has structured and closed deals worth over $1,000,000.Damola’s comprehensive understanding of the music industry’s multifaceted ecosystem, from intellectual property and publishing to digital distribution and recording business allows him offer useful legal counsel to creatives. His expertise spans contract negotiations, royalty disputes, licensing agreements, and label deals, with a proven track record of securing favorable terms for clients in negotiations with major industry players like Def Jam, Warner Music, and Sony Music. Damola has achieved the following milestone in his career as a music lawyer:Recovered 100% catalog rights for a 3x SAMA-winning artist after a 2-year legal dispute with a major distributor. Terminated exploitative contracts for more than 10 artists, liberating them from unfair major and indie label deals. Successfully resolved persistent YouTube copyright takedowns, overturning false claims prompted by a major distro. Damola also acts as Head of Legal at Waverly Musik, (a South African based music distribution company), and has led legal operations that resulted in 100% out-of-court dispute resolutions, with zero litigation exposure. To further cement his place in the music space, Damola began his journey as a music producer during his university days. That hands-on experience gave him a unique perspective on the creative process and deepened passion for protecting the people behind the music. Damola understands both the art and the business.
About Barr. Janet Odunoye
As the Licensing and Publishing Administrator at The Plug Entertainment, Barr. Janet Odunoye is a key figure in managing the legal and administrative aspects of Africa’s leading talents. The Plug Entertainment is a premier success-driven talent management and entertainment company with a strong track record across brand and booking, digital content, and live events. Barr. Janet Odunoye’s work ensures the smooth and effective management of licensing and publishing for a roster that includes top-tier artists like DJ Titanium, BOJ, King Promise, and Davido, as well as acclaimed athletes such as Asisat Oshoala, Tobi Amusan, Uchenna Kanu and Henry Onyekuru. Her role is vital in protecting and monetizing the creative and commercial assets of the company’s elite clientele. Barr. Janet has helped over 100 artists set up and collect their royalties. She also offers other legal services.
About Timi Dawodu
Timi Dawodu, popularly known as Timi Blaze, is a music producer, video director, entertainment entrepreneur, multi-format creator, and serial entrepreneur.He is the founder and CEO of Genius Creative Brands, a group of creative companies delivering cutting-edge entertainment, creative, and media services across Nigeria. Timi is also the founder and CEO of Genius TV, a platform dedicated to amplifying African voices through groundbreaking media content, as well as the founder of Gemumo, a music incubator that has empowered over 100 young African talents in recent years.A versatile media entrepreneur, Timi Dawodu’s work spans music, film, design, and talent development. Through his strong ideation skills, media-related businesses addressing real challenges within the creative industry and beyond have been established under his guidance, consistently driving innovation that positively shapes the future of African creativity.
About Oba Lurge
Born in Southern Nigeria, Oba Lurge is a multifaceted creative from Lagos.In 2018, he launched his own imprint, Mich Selber Records, and signed himself. He went on to release two EPs: Mich Selber the Mixtape and Grammy Dreams in 2019, which featured guest appearances from DJ Voyst and Joeboy.His career reached a new milestone in 2021 when he became the first Nigerian rapper to sign a one-year distribution deal with Universal Music Nigeria. That same year, he earned a certificate in Sound Recording & Production for Film & TV from the EbonyLife Creative Academy. While there, he released his EP Son of George IV and was later recognized with the Best Location Sound award for his work on the short film Last Operation. His track, “Energy,” featuring Iyanya, was also synced in the short film After Party.Oba Lurge is currently the first and only African rapper to partner with Roc Nation Distribution, where he’s working on his third album, One Lagos Boy. The album’s first single, “Gone Are The Days,” featuring Duncan Mighty, was released on May 13, 2025.In addition to his music career, Oba Lurge is also the CEO of Equip Your Studio and runs a fashion company called ST. Anthony. He has also worked with Horus Music Africa.
About Mykel Rapsy
Mykel Rapsy (real name: Sunday Michael seun) is a Nigerian music artist, songwriter, and creative based in Lagos. A graduate of Human Resource Management from the University of Cape Coast in Ghana, Rapsy blends Afro music, Afro-pop, and other contemporary styles to create a sound that is both soulful and dynamic. He has released two EPs, Fire & Ice and Too Yung to Dream, and is the author of the book Gifted or Cursed?.
Beyond his creative work, Rapsy is an entrepreneur and founder of Lagos Errand Boy, a thriving errand and procurement service based in Lagos. His diverse pursuits reflect his passion for connecting with people, telling stories, and building impactful projects across music, literature, and business.
About Soundboy FA
With a voice as smooth as it is soulful, Soundboy FA is a rising star in the Afrobeats scene. Born Pascal Nonso Andy in Nigeria’s Anambra State, he’s quickly making a name for himself with his unique blend of Afrobeats, R&B, and contemporary rhythms. His music, which explores themes of love and resilience, has resonated with fans and critics alike.
Soundboy FA’s career has seen significant momentum, including performances at major events across Nigeria. His breakthrough came with the song “Quality Time,” which has gained traction across Europe and America with over 300,000 streams on popular platforms and has sparked a viral trend on TikTok. This rapid success has positioned him as an artist to watch on the global stage. He is also a tattoo artist.
Edinburgh Fringe: Dream Space opens from 31 July at Assembly George Square – The Crate. It’s a non-verbal puppet theatre from Korea…full of imagination, emotion, and visual poetry.
Dream Space takes you to a magical world where the everyday turns into something amazing. With puppets, music, and movement, you’ll go on an exciting island adventure and meet a gentle, powerful whale.
This special show is for children aged 5 and up and mixes fun, wonder, and healing. Children will be inspired to dream, and adults may feel a bit of childhood joy return. As imagination and reality blend, the stage becomes a place where stories come to life. Come with us on a one-of-a-kind journey where dreams soar and anything can happen!
Dream Space was created by South Korean artist Jin-young Son and his team, SSAK. After witnessing the 2014 Sewol ferry tragedy, Son wanted to bring hope and healing to family audiences. He uses puppets to bring people together through imagination, laughter, and comfort.
“An unforgettable journey through emotion and imagination. A rare gem in Korea’s contemporary theatre.” ★★★★★ Korea Theatre Festival
“Locally rooted, globally resonant. A poetic and powerful celebration of life through puppetry.” ★★★★★ Gangbuk Foundation for Arts & Culture
AWARDS
2024 Invitation Performance Appointment Certificate, Gangwon Winter Youth Olympic Games
2023 Korean Cheongchun Mic – Excellence in Performing Arts Award
2019 Certificate of Appreciation from Dobong-gu Mayor, Cultural City Dobong Planning Project
2018 Gold Prize, Incheon Children’s Theater Festival
Show Title: Dream Space
Venue: Assembly George Square, The Crate
Time: 13:25hrs
Dates: Thu 31 Jul – Sun 24 Aug 2025
Tickets: 31 Jul: £8.00 / 1-5, 8-10, 15-17, 22-24
Aug: £13.50 / 6-7, 12-14, 19-21 Aug: £12.50
Bookings: www.assemblyfestival.com or 0131 623 3030
Big Little Sister: Holly Gifford’s Edinburgh Fringe Festival Debut
Holly Gifford’s Edinburgh Fringe Festival Debut, Big Little Sister, is a darkly funny and emotionally sharp solo play about growing up in someone else’s shadow — when that someone is your sibling with disabilities.
Big Little Sister cuts through the cliches of “inspirational” sibling stories. Through surrealist storytelling, monologue, and multimedia, including dialogue voiced by her brother’s communication aid. Supported by Keep It Fringe, this production is a tribute to the “glass children”— the term coined to represent ‘invisible’ siblings who grow up in the shadows of siblings with additional needs.
But what happens when this glass child cracks? As the story unfolds, she begins to question what it means to speak on behalf of her brother. By using his literal voice, is she becoming the very filter she set out to challenge—the one that makes their lives palatable?
The show was born out of writer / performer Holly Gifford’s lived experience and desire to challenge those who benefit from the stereotypical, motivational ‘content’ we create around those with disabilities. Equally, who are the beneficiaries of keeping these real stories silenced?
Big Little Sister is a tribute; to growing up alongside someone profoundly different, and to the defiant joy stitched in the seams of grief and guilt.
Holly Gifford is a Bristol-made, London-based writer and performer. Gifford creates new work blending theatre, comedy, and multimedia to tell emotionally complex stories with a sprinkle of social commentary. Big Little Sister is her debut solo show. Gifford’s voice is honest, self-aware, and deeply compassionate.
Big Little Sister is directed by Scarlett Stitt, a London-based actor, writer, and theatre-maker known for her bold and dynamic work across film, television, and stage. At the 2023 Edinburgh Fringe, she co-created and performed in Kissing A Fool, a queer clown-cabaret exploring George Michael’s journey through grief and creativity. The show later transferred to the Soho Theatre. Alongside Gifford, Stitt also runs and hosts drag cabaret nights at the Yard Theatre with their collective, @haus0fintrusivethots.
Big Little Sister is produced in partnership with Stoke The Embers and Honey Theatre, and is supported by Collective Acting Studio, Soho Theatre Edinburgh Lab and was first developed with the National Youth Theatre.
Audience testimonials:
‘It was beautiful. As someone who’s sister is autistic, I could relate to a lot of the themes of siblings having to act as parents and the resentment that can build. This play navigated that experience with such thoughtfulness, that I was on the verge of tears by the end.’ – Jahrhys Greenidge
‘The truth, the originality, the story that’s what made it powerful. Holly brought realness. A raw, unfiltered connection. You felt her love for her brother in every word, every breath. There was no performance, only presence. She didn’t just tell a story she invited us into it. And we followed, willingly, because it was honest.’ – Michelle Hope
‘A beautiful, intimate and hilarious sharing of sibling love.’ – Tamara Davis
This intimate play invites audiences into a world of shared madness, lack of control, and abundant love.
