Just Watch by Dr. Pushkin x Cj Biggerman and Taitan
Titled Just Watch, the fast-rising rapper Dr. Pushkin continues an unparalleled growth trajectory with back-to-back releases.
2024 for Dr Pushkin
Starting the year with No Heroes featuring Lyrical Joe and then No Go Go featuring Kojo Cue, he’s gone on to drop one with Strongman and Ataman Nikita titled Still Here. The workaholic rapper also released a remix to the anthem ‘Winning’ which featured Ghanaian legend Budukusu and American rapper Wyldthang. While on a visit to Kumasi, Dr. Pushkin jumped on a song with Ataman Nikita titled Enigma released just a week ago.
Dr. Pushkin went home to the Upper East Region of Ghana where he featured B-Wayne, one of the most talented musicians in the region on Empty Grave.
Each of these songs have steadily garnered streams on multiple music streaming platforms.
Just Watch stills
Even though the Audio for Just watch was released earlier in the year, the desire to tell the story with visuals manifested on the 8th of July 2024. Just Watch features one of Ghana’s most talented rappers Cj Biggerman and an amazing singer, Taitan. Shot in the United States of America, the expressionist in the song’s lyrics came alive.
The song talks about how they are growing regardless, and if anyone wants to doubt, watch.
2024 has seen a release of a barrage of songs and accompanying visuals. The revered academic and AI geek is not taking his eyes off the passion he has also harboured from infancy. Furthermore, He is not only keeping an eye on things but ensuring that he keeps to the standards.
How many more songs will Dr. Pushkin release in 2024?
When is the Dagaaba and Frafra friendly games event?
This year’s Dagaaba and Frafra friendly games will come off on Saturday 7th of September 2024, at the El-Wak Sports Stadium in Accra. The gates will open at 8 am and close at 5 pm for all revelers, cultural enthusiasts, and especially people from the two ethnic groups. However, Adults will pay 15GHS, while children pay 5GHS for entry.
Components of the Dagaaba and Frafra friendly games 2024
The Dagaaba and Frafra friendly games is a cultural soiree born of a cordial relationship between two ethnic groups. It is an event which promises to be yet another fun-filled edition. With participants from across the Greater Accra Region and beyond, it remains that rare gathering of people from the two unique ethnicities.
You may be interested: Do you know there is a mobile App that translates Gurune (Frafra) to several languages?
Characteristic of previous editions, the one-day program is packed with exciting activities for people of different ages. Notable activities for the day include volleyball, sack race, tug of peace, and the ultimate decider, football. Each activity will have a Men and Women edition.
On the cultural side, the Dagaaba and Frafra friendly games will feature a heavy dose of cultural display. The display will span musical performances, traditional drumming and dance sessions, and a variety of traditional cuisines from the Dagaaba and Frafra groups. There will also be an exhibition of artifacts and regalia peculiar to the two groups. Notable among the artifacts will be Smocks, the xylophone, and other items made of leather and smock material.
The bond between the two ethnic groups.
The bond between the two ethnic groups is said to be borne of the fact that they have one ancestry. However, due to migration, one group moved to the Upper West Region of Ghana and the other to the Upper East. There is also a story of two brothers going on a journey; at a point, hunger sets in, and the only choice is to make a meal of their companion dog.
A disagreement, however, ensued over when to boil or roast the meat; they eventually divided the carcass into two, leaving the head for later. Somehow, the head went missing. That quest to find the head led to the cordiality they currently enjoy as two ethnic groups. Also, the loss of the head created a teasing situation which has led to this cordiality. The Dagaaba and Frafra are believed to represent either of the brothers who shared the dog-meat.
Who are the Dagaaba and Frafra?
The Dagaaba are sometimes referred to as the Dagaba. They are an ethnic group in the Upper West Region of Ghana. They are mainly from Nandom and Lawra districts. The Dagaaba are a part of the Mole-Dagbani cluster of ethnic groups. Dagaare is the language spoken by the Dagaabas.
The Frafra are also an ethnic group from the Upper East Region of Ghana. However, some communities are extending into Burkina Faso. They speak Gurune, sometimes referred to as Frafra. Notable towns include Bolgatanga, Bongo, Tongo, and several others.
The two ethnic groups are believed to have come from one ancestor.
The ultimate prize
Through the years, the Dagaaba – Frafra friendly games have had a unique prize on the event. The ultimate winner is always given a Puppy. The prize has sparked several controversies amongst animal lovers and cultural enthusiasts. While Animal rights activists think that using a puppy as a trophy is barbaric, cultural enthusiasts advocate tolerance for different cultural practices. However, since the prize does not break any laws, it is safe to say sentiments haven’t succeeded in chastising this age-long tradition of a puppy prize at this novel event.
The Dagaaba – Frafra Friendly games have become a mainstay for most indigenes of the two ethnic groups in Accra. It presents a unique opportunity to enjoy the culture and fraternize with relatives. It also enhances the cordial relationship the two ethnicities have enjoyed for centuries. Because these two groups are from different regions in Ghana, the solidified friendship is exemplary.
The Nandom Advocacy Group (NAG) USA is a unique nonprofit organization formed by individuals from the Greater Nandom Traditional Area in Ghana, now residing in the United States. United by solid cultural ties, NAG serves as a platform for social cohesion among its members while striving to improve the welfare and well-being of the people back home through advocacy and charity work. NAG is strictly non-political and non-religious, aiming to bring all sons and daughters of the Greater Nandom Traditional Area under one umbrella.
How to become a Member of Nandom Advocacy Group
Membership in NAG is open to those who hail from the Greater Nandom Traditional Area by birth, marriage, or adoption. The group’s mission is twofold: to foster community among its USA members and support developmental projects in their homeland. Historically, NAG’s efforts have been concentrated on aiding St. Theresa’s Hospital in Nandom. However, the organization plans to expand its support to include educational initiatives, making health and education its primary focus.
The Group’s focus
One of NAG’s key initiatives is promoting the rich Dagara cultural heritage among its members in the USA. To this end, the group holds an annual gathering that serves as a vibrant celebration of their culture. The 2024 NAG Annual Gathering, held from July 26th to 28th in Aberdeen, Maryland, was a resounding success. The event saw a massive turnout of over 100 members and their loved ones, marking it the largest gathering of people from the Greater Nandom Traditional Area in the USA. Attendees enjoyed cultural performances, traditional foods, and other activities highlighting their heritage.
NAG’s commitment to developing the Greater Nandom Traditional Area is evident in its ongoing projects. Recently, NAG supported the Nandom Catholic Deanery and the Nandom Central Mosque in launching a year-long campaign to prevent motor accidents. Both religious institutions manage this vital initiative, demonstrating NAG’s collaborative approach to community development.
The Future of Nandom Advocacy Group
As NAG continues to grow and evolve, its focus remains steadfast on improving the people’s lives in the Greater Nandom Traditional Area. By broadening its support to include educational needs and maintaining its health initiatives, NAG is dedicated to making a lasting impact. The annual gatherings and cultural celebrations further strengthen the bonds among members, ensuring that the Dagara culture remains vibrant in the diaspora.
In summary, NAG USA is more than just an organization; it is a community committed to preserving its cultural heritage and improving the lives of those in the Greater Nandom Traditional Area. Through their advocacy and charity work, NAG members exemplify the spirit of unity and compassion, making a difference in the USA and Ghana.
He is a refreshing voice set to place Bolgatanga on the world musical Map. With an impressive body of work being curated, his first single released today will serenade music lovers. Titled Enigma, Ghanaian music lovers with a knack for pure talent should expect stellar musicianship. Enigma is coming on the heels of a song featuring Dr. Pushkin and Strongman released a month ago, “Still Here”.
Becoming this talented
Cognisant that artistry is a honed craft that draws from many influences, Ataman Nikita has, through the years, worked on his skill and believes the time is now. The singer was introduced to classical and Russian folk music early on due to his early years in Russian (as he is part Russian). However, traveling and settling in Bolgatanga exposed him to other music genres such as RnB, Hip Hop, Highlife, Hiplife, Traditional Kologo Music, and Afrobeats from different eras. Those above guided his development as a vocalist with control over various music styles.
His forte as a singer remains the ability to fuse himself into any song to create the right feel. Whether entertainment or a pure display of talent, Ataman Nikita brings complimenting emotions to every beat he performs on.
The man behind the song
His first single is titled Enigma; this title draws a mysterious persona surrounding his existence and functioning in Bolgatanga. To many, he is Richard Azunre, a network administrator at the Bolgatanga Technical University and a lecturer who has tutored many former students in the Upper East Region. However, his stature as an entertainer has always remained a mystery. His voice has been featured in countless top songs by his brother, Dr Pushkin.
He is also featured on songs with Soorebia, B-Wayne, and others. Whenever he does not appear as an artiste in songs, his voice appears as the mysterious Isolirium in all productions from the record label.
Enigma is a revelation of the face behind that soothing voice that has created several hooks, choruses, and verses to many songs from Isolirium Entertainment. It is also the first single from Ataman Nikita’s Album set for release in the last quarter of 2024. Having announced his decision to pursue music professionally with a feature on Still Here, Enigma cements the new venture of Richard Azunre, better known in music circles as Ataman Nikita.
Once again, Bolgatanga will advance the discourse of harboring some of the finest musical talents in Ghana.
Ataman Nikita is a native of Bolgatanga and was born to a Russian mother and a Gurune father. He spent his early years in Russia, Ghana, and New York. However, he settled in Ghana to pursue a systems administrator and university lecturer career.
“Still Here” is the final decision by Richard Azunre, aka Ataman Nikita, to pursue music professionally. It is not the first song he has made, but #thesavannaonline can authoritatively say that this is the start of the musical journey to bring an alternative voice that soothes Ghana Music.
Ataman Nikita is a lecturer and a Systems Administrator at the Bolgatanga Technical University. Even though he has been dabbling in music most of his life, he appears to be finally deciding to pursue music as a profession. People familiar with Dr Pushkin’s music will recognize a familiar voice in many song hooks and choruses: Richard Azunre’s voice, aka Ataman Nikita. He is also Dr Pushkin’s brother.
The-Azunre-Brothers
The Story of “Still Here”
“Still Here” is the story of persistence, consistency, and staying true to oneself. It reminds us of a story we are all familiar with: slander, unbelief, and broken promises by people who would rather see us in squalor.
What is music if it cannot ignite an emotion?
This amazing piece of music created by Ataman Nikita, Strongman, and Dr Pushkin is a great tune and a song that speaks to each soul. Being scathed by commentary from haters is a choice. A person is indeed capable of damning such comments and charges.
This collaboration was birthed by Dr Pushkin’s desire to collaborate with other artists who appreciate his craft and are willing to do joint songs to complement their respective talents.
Strongman Wins
Strongman won the Best Rap Performance category at the 2024 Telecel Ghana Music Awards with his song “Rap God”. Interestingly, that win was not surprising. However, the time it took to win such a prestigious award is the surprise element for a peerless career that started in 2010. Strongman has been a major force to reckon with since he burst into the limelight after winning “Focus Fm Freestyle Friday” in 2010. Then he won Kfm Freestyle Saturday in 2011 and “Tha Next Big Thang in GH Hip-Hop sometime in 2012.
He eventually joined Sarkodie’s Sarkcess Music, working with several other artists to drop hit after hit. When his contract ended, and he chose to start his label, Strong Empire, fans felt uncomfortable due to the tough nature of Ghana Music. To prove everyone wrong, he has released monster hit songs with an impressive catalogue of rap songs. He has also been able to navigate through the music scene despite being independent. Many have attempted to swipe at him through music and slanderous commentary, but he has always slayed. The last major lyrical swipe came from Medikal, and everyone knows how the Mayanka boy did back2back he unleashed rap bars that Medikal could not fathom.
Dr Pushkin’s 2024 thus far
Working with Strongman was inevitable for an artist like Dr Pushkin as he stayed true to his beliefs. Many rappers have turned singers. However, Strongman has found a way to stay relevant and on point with his highly dense Rap songs. This feature was, therefore, another instance of “real recognize real”.
Still, Here is the Dr Pushkin’s 6th single for 2024.
The revered Dr Pushkin is in Ghana for a conference on Khaya, a language recognition and translation App. He is also here for a Ted Talk at Kumasi’s Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology. As part of the visit to Kumasi, Dr Pushkin visited his alma mater, Opoku Ware Secondary School, to mentor students. All of the above is due to his second hat, which carries the name Paul Azure. Dr Pushkin is also known as Paul Azunre in Tech circles; he is often regarded as the GOAT of Ghana’s Brilliant Science and Maths Quiz program, where he helped Opoku Ware SHS win the title in 2002.
Dr Pushkin is a fast-growing person of interest due to his unique combination of music and his role as a top developer of the Khaya language recognition and translation app.
“Still Here” basically says that when the odds stack up against you, remaining firm and resolute, albeit ingenious, is paramount.
The song is currently available on all digital platforms.
Ataman Nikita is currently working an album set to be an explosion of Talent. We will keep you informed on this amazing singers journey. Way to go Ataman Nikita
nhyAImu is a conference that AI enthusiasts in Ghana and West Africa must attend. It is the brainchild of NLP-Ghana, Algorine Inc., and Academic City University College of Ghana. The objective is to interact with the general public on several topics centered on artificial intelligence and innovative Khaya AI.
Dr Paul Azunre – nhyAImu-2024
The exceptional AI App and capabilities
If you desire AI that facilitates language translation and speech recognition with Africa as a priority, Khaya AI is your solution. Aside from the personal use of the impressive product created by Algorine Inc. and NLP-Ghana, Khaya AI allows integration into other web-based applications. This feat has set it ahead of its contemporaries, including Google Language Translator.
Khaya AI prioritizes recognition, speech translation, and text-to-speech translation between African languages and English. The application currently has 10 African languages as it strives to add more. The languages currently on the App are Twi, Dagbani, Ewe, Fante, Ga, Gurune, Kikuyu, Kimeru, Luo, and Yoruba.
Practical usage is based on the right prompts as an artificially intelligent product. While it is an easy-to-use application, accuracy, being the desire of users, requires more knowledge of how it works. Also, people with other web-based products who want to integrate Khaya AI require knowledge of how to do so.
All in all, the application is a simple tool that doesn’t require any knowledge of coding or anything very technical.
What to Expect at the Conference
NLP-Ghana, one of the leading forces behind the application, has teamed up with Academic City University College on a seminar to expose the features and usage to all. The event is scheduled on the Academic City Campus around Haatso-Agbogba in Accra.
The nhyAImu conference will, therefore, cover topics that include the following:
Introduction to Ghana NLP and its mission
Overview of engineering pipelines emphasizing MLOps
Detailed demo and guidelines on using Khaya AI’s APIs
It is scheduled for Wednesday, June 12th, 2024, from 10 am to 12 pm; nhyAImu will focus on ‘Unveiling the future of African Languages with the Khaya AI.’
Kundivi Mahama, formerly Zazzy, has released yet another beautiful composition. The song, Afara’nga, furthers his agenda to dominate as a live performer with an enviable repertoire. Afara’nga is currently available to stream across all digital music platforms.
The song is off his yet-to-be-released album, scheduled for late 2024.
Kundivi Mahama’s Stature
Kundivi Mahama, who resides and operates from the Upper East Regional capital, Bolgatanga, is one of the top five vocalists in the region. His stature is undoubtedly high. His dexterity as a lyricist, vocalist, and live band performer remains peerless. His consistency as a stellar musician remains his call to fame.
In the last few months, he has been on a streak; he released songs that offer fans an idea of what to expect on his album. The songs released have so far exhibited the characteristics of a world star in the leagues of the Youssou N’dours, Angelique Kidjos, and Wiyaalas.
Songs from his Album Released so far
Afara’nga follows Yineme, featuring Soorebia, Sheiwuna, and Taafama, which have solidified his rise. Other songs like Pon Dem Case and Echanga also make listening unforgettable.
The Above songs marked his journey when he rebranded from Zazzy to Kundivi Mahama. The new persona came with his desire to bring back the sound and rhythms of Uppers International Band, which reigned in Ghana from the late 1960s to the early 2000s. He pursues this feat with the touch of an original self; thus, fans get a feel of two worlds.
According to Kundivi Mahama, Afara’nga is a tribute to the Uppers International Band.
A more detailed profile about the life and music of Kundivi Mahama is coming soon.
Kundivi Mahama
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