An uninspired evening

TG1stT August dubbed “The Inspiration” featured mostly gospel artists and inspirational singers. The turnout was not impressive as the usually packed arena only provided a small cluster around the performing ring without a podium. The stairways were not as populated as usual. There was also no noticeable publicity for record labels or artists. The aura seemed like the organisers were saying, “if you’re an inspirational artist, come and perform.”

The Inspiration was compered by Wale Oddizzy, HipTV presenter and as usual the show kicked off with young new acts.

The applause by the audience for the opening act was less than impressive. People were chatting away and response couldn’t have been any worse.

Rooftop MCs were invited to perform ‘Lagimo’ to probably ginger up the crowd but even too they met with a lukewarm reception. Soul Snatcher’s effort at spurring the crowd with climbing stunts on the stairs still yielded little response.

Other inspirational artists that featured included new gospel acts Nene, Provabs, Nikki Laoye, and Lara George. George returned to stage immediately after her performance as an encore. Her return was actually to honour a request from ex band mate Memo to perform a track off her album.

The highlights of the evening were performances from Cobhams Asuquo, Keffi, B.O.U.Q.U.I Rooftop MCs (encore performance) and new comedian Daniel the Humorous.

Cobhams held the crowd’s attention and for a moment some inspiration shone through. It only lasted for few moments. Keffi came clean with her dance troop and got the fans hailing with her energetic performance and dancers.

BOUQUI also got a near response on her Kaffi featured performance, but the crowd detached again mid-way into it.

The crowd however loved the comedy break provided by Daniel the Humorous. Although it was short lived, the jokes evoked rib cracking laughter.

Rooftop MC came back on stage a third time with Da Suspect and got a better reception.

The TG1sT August was closed by a dance troop.