A few years ago, the name Tonto Dike rang a bell in the ears of the average Nigerian as one of the many Nigerian Actresses parading our TV screens like uncrowned beauty queens. Haven emerged first runner up in the maiden edition of one of Nigeria’s pioneer reality TV shows “The Next Movie Star” in 2005, the screen goddess dived into the oceans of the Nigerian Film industry called Nollywood.
D’banj needs no introduction (at least to the average Nigerian). His 2004 debut hit single “Koko” became as popular as the national anthem. And that bagged him the title - Koko Master. Arguably the hottest artist at that time, he awakened the curiosity of music lovers across the continent as they watched keenly, anticipating more hits from the new kid on the block. Did he disappoint? No. Like a “hit master,” he released more hits like they were pieces of cake.
The blogosphere was thrown into a frenzy in October 2012, when Tonto released her debut singles “Itz Ova” and “Get High.” Like a bombshell, the songs caused commotion. She wasn’t spared the wrath of agitated music lovers who attacked her like hungry lions for the ‘pain’ her music caused their ears
Emotions were heightened when the breakup between D’Banj and record label mate, Donjazzy was announced. The Koko master hopped unto the train of Kanye’s Good Music record label while Donjazzy birthed Marvin Records. Unfortunately, the union between Good music and D’banj reportedly ended in a twinkle of an eye, prompting the latter to startup his own label, DB Records. No one saw the shocker coming until he announced signing the controversial diva, Tonto Dike to his label.
It all seemed like a scene enacted from a comic flick, and the humor made most Nigerians laugh at what many described as a big joke. They believed it was one of those rumors that didn’t hold water. But their doubts were cleared when Poko lee (Tonto’s stage name) released her first single on DB records, “Sugar Rush” featuring D’banj.
Sugar Rush was received with mixed reactions. Another e-war erupted. But this time, it wasn’t Poko Lee against the world; she had some supporters. While critics claimed that Sugar Rush was a copycat of Marvin’s hit song “Dorobucci,” others argued that it sounded nothing like it. It was a huge relief for the Actress cum Singer that some people believed in her music.
Produced by Devee of DB Records, Sugar Rush is a love song with a traditional African sound. The dance hall rhythm makes it danceable for music lovers who are always ready to shake their body. D’banj brought his koko flavor to the table with his warm intro which set a pleasant mood for the song. Tonto stepped in and gave a good rendition of her verses. Her voice was distinctly audible unlike her previous songs where listeners had to strain their eyes to get what she was saying. She dropped each note like a punch in rhymes, softly maintaining a steady tempo throughout. A listener with an open mind is likely to get carried away by the playful nature of the love story song.
Despite the negative feedback from some quarters, on a general level, Poko lee got a pass mark from music critics on Sugar Rush. However, many are of the opinion that it was sheer luck, and are certain that she won’t be so lucky next time. Tonto’s subsequent songs will set the records straight. It’s up to the DB records’ first lady to either validate her prowess as a Singer, or confirm speculations that she’s just a onetime wonder. Will she disappoint?
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Naija Music