Yesternight on your favorite programme, Nigerian premier Musical talent hunt reality TV show, StarQuest, the 36 finalists were seen as they were assembled by the Sheriff who handed them a letter that was read aloud to the hearing of everyone by one of them.
 
The content? Yes, your guess is right. The finalists were instructed to go ahead and form their bands. Vocalists and instrumentalists were then seen jostling, negotiating and lobbying one another for their most preferred hands in the various music departments. However, in a very co-ordinated and matured manner. Views witnessed strong negotiations and compromises made to ensure that no band lack essential components of a winning band. What a task!
 
Djinee, the host later spared time to educate them on the intricacy and rudiments of band formation, ranging from attitude to tolerance, character, team work and so on. He advised them to keep sentiments aside as their decisions would either make or mar their success in Star Fameland.

Consequently, the finalists were seen trying to perfect their band formation processes with suitable names. Now, there are 6 bands in Fameland with distinct names. Apparently, the contest is getting more and more interesting.

 



 

The foremost Nigerian female hip-hop artiste, Weird MC, was the august visitor to Fameland and was so excited as she could recognised few members of some bands whom she auditioned during the regional screening. She advised band members on the need to forsake individual ego in the overall interest of team spirit, which in her words is very vital to sustain any band. She also stressed the need for each band to remain unique while doing what they know how to do best. She entertained a few questions from the finalists and left them inspired.
 
The various band members were later seen in clusters at the pool side during the famous " Brightness hour" and later inside the house sharing the brighter life. What a camaraderie!
 
Now that the bands have been formed. 36 finalists now belonging to 6 Bands. The show is getting hotter and the excitement is brewing. But what are the names of these bands and who are their constituent members? ...Catch this on the next episode!



   
 



 

Question: What was your experience during Star Quest 2007?
Answer: Star Quest 2007 in my opinion was the biggest and the best TV REALITY SHOW for that year.
The experiences are too overwhelming to itemize. However it is important to note the following:
a) My approach to handling issues with musical talents had to change because all 36 contestants were not only good at what they do, but also had myriad flavors of the art of music. So I got very exposed to different personalities and concepts.
b) I got into the competition with the 'Nigerian factor in mind, thinking that there would be some reduction of standard or favoritism for some individuals or group, but was very impressed to see every contestant treated equally and also amazed at the impersonal and professional
approach the competition took.


Question: So how has it been thus far?
Answer: Normally, It has been very challenging but equally interesting. We had the opportunity to perform at the 2007 Star Mega Jam along with international artistes likes T Pain and Kanye West. Also during Star Trek in 2007, we got exposed to other parts of Nigeria while performing with popular Nigerian artistes across 10 major cities.

Question: Tell us about your new album.
Answer: The self titled album "D'Jewels" is in my opinion a good example of the different genres of Nigerian music (as at when we recorded) and has songs proactive enough to be in any timeless classics compilation e.g. Promised land and "Iya". The 9 tracker also has a modicum of Creoles and lingua from
different parts of the country.

Finally, I encourage you to grab a copy for yourself and see if all I have said is true or not. Also send your comments to askforthejewels@yahoo.com

Question: What does the future hold i.e. plans for the future?
Answer: The future is a combination of endless possibilities and I see a very bright future for the group and other Star Quest winners, if they can remain united. D'Jewels intends to change the music industry with their original concepts of music and also diversify into other branches of the entertainment
industry. We also intend to run a charity organization geared towards helping young talents in the industry.

Question: what advice/counsel would you give to aspiring musical talents in Nigeria?
Answer: Give your best during the competition and don't compromise your standard for anybody or anything. However, do all this with humility.
Finally, do not cheat or attempt to cheat. Do not break any rule because you would definitely get caught.

I wish you all the best.