Singer, songwriter and music producer, John Ighodaro, popularly known as Johnny Drille, tells NAOMI CHIMA about his life and career What inspires your creative process, and how do you manage to fuse different styles seamlessly? I have always loved storytelling. Growing up, I listened to a lot of folk, country, gospel, and alternative music. So, I draw inspiration from life, faith, love, and my everyday experiences. It’s got a bit of everything, and I personally think that’s how to make the most incredible music. You’ve had an impressive run since joining Mavin Records. What’s been the most significant lesson you’ve learnt from Don Jazzy, and how has it impacted your music? Being with Don Jazzy and Mavin Records has taught me the value of consistency and patience, building brick by brick. Sometimes it takes years for people to fully connect with a sound. He also encourages creative freedom and supports you to refine your identity, as well as make sure you’re heading in the right direction as an artiste. Can you share the inspiration behind your tours and the Johnny Drille Room Live? Johnny’s Room Live is very dear to me. It started from wanting to create an intimate space where my fans can truly connect with the music and with me. The energy and love I get from those rooms, which have grown to become large parks and halls, are indescribable. That’s it. What are the significant experiences you have had on the tour, especially outside Nigeria? It was surreal. The first time I heard people singing my lyrics back to me in a country that I’d never been to hit me in such a special way. It made me realise how music truly travels beyond borders. One significant moment was backstage after my show in Manchester (United Kingdom), and a couple came to me in tears, talking about how my music has helped their autistic son. That was very heartwarming to me. Tell us about your family and educational trajectory and how it influenced your songwriting skills and lyrical depth. I grew up in a Christian family; my dad is a pastor and was a school principal. Church music shaped a lot of my musical foundation. I started as a singer and keyboardist in my father’s church with my siblings at the age of 11 in 2001. I later joined a music group called Soul Awakening Singers with my siblings and some friends. I studied English and Literature at the University of Benin, Edo State, which deeply influenced my love for words and storytelling. That blend of faith, music, and literature shaped my approach to making intentional music. What’s the most valuable lesson you’ve learnt from your parents, and how has it influenced your values and approach to life? I have learnt a lot from my family. My siblings were the only friends I had while growing up. My parents did not allow my siblings and I to go out often so that we wouldn’t mix up with the wrong people. But, one of the best lessons I learnt is this, “Never lose who you are, and never forget where you’re coming from.” I have always kept that in my heart to date. How has fatherhood changed your perspective on life and music? Becoming a father changes you in so many ways and yes it has changed me too. More than anything, I always want to be there for my daughter, just as my dad has been there for me. It’s a crazy world that we live in, and I want her to become the amazing person she’s destined to be. And that extends to the music as well; it has just made me more intentional about my storytelling. How do you manage to keep your private life away from the public glare? I believe some parts of life are sacred. I share what I’m comfortable with, but I keep my family life grounded and protected. It helps maintain peace of mind and allows me to nurture relationships without external pressure. What’s the craziest or most memorable fan encounter you’ve ever had? The craziest experience was with a fan who worked at a hotel and tried to sneak into my room around 3 am. It was a really scary experience. The most memorable would be seeing 3000 people show up for me at my first-ever live show in 2018. That day will always be special to me. If you weren’t a musician, what other profession would you have pursued, and why? If I weren’t a musician, I think I’d probably be a film director. I love storytelling; it is in my DNA. I naturally love creating emotional journeys, whether through lyrics or visuals. What’s one thing you can’t live without on tour, and what’s the most essential item in your studio? One thing I can’t live without on a tour, or the essential item in my studio, will most likely be my laptop, because it literally carries my whole work in it. What do you consider to be your most significant contribution to the music industry? I think I have brought something different. My style is different, and I have done what a lot of people were afraid to do, and excelled at it in the industry. So people can now try new trends and excel at them, too. How do you hope to be remembered by future generations? I want to be remembered as someone who made timeless and meaningful music. I want my generation and those unborn to remember me for that. What’s your favourite food? I love pounded yam and egusi soup (laughs). How do you relax after a stressful day? After a long day, I love spending quiet time with my family and/or watching a good movie. What are your thoughts on the current state of the industry, and how do you think artistes can adapt to the ever-changing landscape? The industry is fast-paced, oversaturated, and content-driven now. My thoughts are that artistes need to stay true to their sound while embracing new ways to connect. I have always known and will say that authenticity will always cut through the noise. You’ve collaborated with many local and international artistes over the years. Who has been your most memorable collaborator, and what influence have they had on your music? Working with Don Jazzy has changed my life in so many ways. He brought out a new layer of my sound. Another standout was collaborating with Styl-Plus, whose music I grew up on. It felt like a full-circle moment. What advice would you give to emerging artistes? I will tell them to focus on their craft. Trends will come and go, but skill and authenticity are timeless. Don’t be afraid to be different, because your uniqueness is your strength. What do you find most fulfilling about your career? I find my ability to touch lives very fulfilling. The thought of knowing that a song I wrote in my room can resonate across the world and bring comfort, joy, or hope is the greatest fulfillment for me. What lessons have you learnt in the course of your career that you wish you had known earlier? I have learnt that brick by brick, little by little, is the best way to build a long-lasting career.

For more than a year now, Abhishek Bachchan and Aishwarya Rai Bachchan’s relationship has been under the scanner, with constant whispers about their alleged separation dominating social media chatter and gossip columns. Though they enjoy international popularity and a glorious reputation in Indian films, the couple has elected to maintain silence so far. During recent promotions for his new ZEE5 movie Kaalidhar Laapata, Abhishek Bachchan finally broke his silence over the relentless gossip and shared an honest opinion regarding online hate, media hyperbole, and the psychological cost such hateful negativity can have on family lives. Abhishek Bachchan and Aishwarya Rai, two of Bollywood’s most renowned personalities, have had a close relationship since their marriage in 2007. From acting together in romantic successes such as Guru, Dhoom 2, Dhaai Akshar Prem Ke, and Kuch Naa Kaho to handling their personal and public lives with grace, the couple has been admired for a long time. They are proud parents to 13-year-old daughter Aaradhya Bachchan as well. Even though they live a relatively low-key life, the couple has frequently found themselves on the receiving end of aggressive media speculation. Speaking to Etimes, Abhishek discussed how there has been a rise in digital gossip and online negativity. “Previously, things that were said about me didn’t affect me. Today, I have a family, and it’s very upsetting,” he shared. He explained that even if he clarifies a rumor, it gets twisted. “Because negative news sells,” he said. For him, the focus is no longer on himself but on the emotional impact it can have on the people closest to him. Abhishek also talked about how trolling has become a disturbing trend. He recalled a particularly harsh comment left on one of his social media posts. His friend Sikandar Kher was so angry that he posted Abhishek’s address online, daring the troll to say it in person. “It’s so convenient to sit anonymously behind a computer screen and write the nastiest things,” he said. “You’re hurting someone. No matter how thick-skinned they are, it affects them.” Taking a strong stand, Abhishek added, “If you’re going to say it on the internet, I dare you to come say it to me on my face.” He explained that if someone has the courage to speak directly, he’ll at least respect their honesty. “But that never happens,” he said, pointing out how easy it is for people to attack someone they don’t really know from behind a screen. Abhishek emphasized how his perspective has changed since becoming a husband and a father. “When I was single, I could ignore things. But now I have people I love and protect,” he said. He reminded readers that celebrities are human too, and rumors can deeply affect their families, even if they remain quiet. Despite all the speculation, Abhishek remains focused on his work. His upcoming film Kaalidhar Laapata will release on ZEE5 on July 4. Directed by Madhumita, the movie also stars Zeeshan Ayyub and Daivik Bhagela. Abhishek is known for taking on unique, performance-driven roles, and this project is expected to be another strong addition to his filmography. In a world that thrives on gossip, Abhishek Bachchan’s response stands out. Rather than reacting emotionally or getting into online debates, he’s taken a calm but firm approach. His message is clear: say what you want, but have the courage to say it to his face. And more importantly, think about the impact your words may have on real lives behind the screen.

Nollywood actress Belinda Effah has shared stunning pictures of herself to celebrate her 31st birthday, Igbere TV reports.

Pimples from the nose is a long and arduous task as zits on the nose are usually stubborn and take ages to pop. Pimple on nose are both painful and obstinate, taking over a week to subside, scratching, pricking or tweezing the pimple only makes it bigger and nastier.

Ways to Remove Pimples on Nose

1. Lemon Juice

Squeeze few drops of lemon juice on cotton wool and place it on your nose. Lemons are acidic and will help to clean and dry the pimple, making it less discernible. Leave for at-least fifteen minutes before you can wash it off.


Fresh lemon juice is the best remedy, but bottled juice works almost as effectively. Lemon juice makes your skin photosensitive, so it is better to avoid stepping out during the day if you have juice on your nose.

2. Ice