Archive
C.R.I.M.E FIGHTING WITH FREDI KRUGA? CHINESE STAR AYI JIHU AT THE ‘IF ONLY’ FILM PREMIERE AT BAFTA
In our last article we brought you the news that Ayi Jihu would be attending the Premiere screening of Fredi Kruga Film ‘If Only’. Ayi Jihu is a supporter of C.R.I.M.E (Creating Role Models in Media Enterprise).
Last night we were able to join Ayi Jihu at the Screening of ‘If Only’ (our review will follow this article) and report on the events of the night.
As we walked into 195 Piccadilly the first thing we noticed was the turn out. Hundreds of people where here to watch the screening of Fredi Kruga’s first feature. Not bad for an Ex Gang member turned Social leader and now writer, Director and Film Producer.
Among the guest where people from all walks of life, From Ex Gang Members to Social leaders, Members of the Cast, community workers and celebrities. Fredi Kruga’s movie had caught the interest of many.
Ayi Jihu Met with several members of the Cast and the press and media before the screening.
In fact such was the interest in Fredi’s Movie one screening was not enough. Instead two screenings had to be arranged to accommodate everyone.
Before the actual screening itself we were treated to a few words from the man himself Fredi Kruga. Up until now he was hard to find such was the throng always surrounding him. Fredi Kruga is not a small man by the way. He spoke of his passion for this movie, his motivation and what he was trying to achieve with it and his organization C.R.I.M.E.
Fredi Kruga is an inspired man. He is a man on a mission. Perhaps it was his seeing in Ayi a kindred spirit that made him reach out the Ayi Jihu (The Fear Chaser) to join him on his quest to re-educate the youth going astray in Gangs and street violence. Perhaps losing 40 people he personally knew to street violence and gangs pushed him over the edge to make a change. Whatever it was you knew one thing when you listened to Fredi Kruga. He was serious!
We are also told that ‘If only’ is not just a film. It’s and educational and social tool that will be taken to schools, prisons and workshops all over the country. You will have to read our review (coming soon) to find out more about this film. Was it any good? However before you even go there if you are paying attention you will get a clue as to why this film is a little different to many that try to tackle the subject of Gang violence and street crime. If Only was not made just to exploit, or turn your head. It was not made to glorify commercialize Gangs and violence. It was made to tell the truth and teach. It was made by a man who has more experience of it than many who cry from the rooftops that they know about all of this stuff. ‘If Only’ was made to be real.
Throughout the film you could hear a pin drop. From start to finish (give or take moments when laughter, and yes there are some moments of humor in this film, were appropriate) everyone was completely involved in it. It was that type of film.
After the film Fredi Kruga found himself, Once again’ engulfed. Even more now everyone wanted to talk to Fredi Kruga, perhaps a little incredulous at what they had just seen. ‘If Only’ is not what you expect. It’s better than what you expected (Now there is a little clue huh?)
Ayi Jihu looked stunning as always in her Young Native ensemble by Angela DeMontigny, but the star of the night was Fredi Kruga. It seems he has gone from the stuff of nightmares to the stuff of Dreams.
Find out more about C.R.I.M.E and If Only here.
Find out more about Chinese Star Ayi Jihu here.
Follow us on Twitter @globalnewsink
East meets Far East dawn of a new world musical order with Ayi Jihu and Aron B
Global News Inc had exclusive access to the filming of the brand new Aron B video co-starring Chinese star Ayi Jihu. Watching the action behind the scenes of this ambitious music video it became clear that the dynamics of the world music scene are drastically changing and at the forefront of the revolution are artists like Aron B and Ayi Jihu.
Initially, what one may see is a straightforward music video featuring collaboration between two young stars; nothing more, nothing less. However, the reality is that the power of this pair; one from India, the other from China, is atomic. Both have opted not go the traditional route or play traditional games, rather, remain independent. Both have forged a massive following – leading a new, much overdue, wave in this industry. This strength of independence and diversity is genius. Independently they have great strength, but in combination, they will command the attention and interest of billions of people … before even arriving West.
At a greater depth one then realises, the entire project has virtually negated the middleman. All direction, film/crew production, and marketing are all in house. Aron B carefully controls and directs the operation and has chosen another capable maverick artist to play at his side bringing all that she [Ayi Jihu] has to offer. It is a merging of ambitious, open hearts and minds; two individuals who can empathize with each other about the dedication and passion necessary for “going it alone.” This melding of all it takes to succeed professionally is apparent in the chemistry that is exuded between them on set. No “Divas” or “Egos” are present; rather, two trailblazers sweating side by side; cutting a path through the cartel that is referred to as today’s music industry.
Aron B, working with Shlepp Entertainment Ltd, put a young dynamic team together including new vibrant players like: Its Branded and Insignia Media Productions. Aron B is also well supported by his own people, most notably his family, assisting him in his own vision. For those who are not familiar, when Indian people get together an infinite amount of man and girl power is on the periphery.
Aron B’s vision and direction are by no means small either. Shooting with the highest quality equipment, as well as using the top professionals available, he has approached this more like a film than a music video. While most artists are content to stand in front of a green screen and move about a bit, this shoot takes on the look of a potential blockbuster. Whatever the outcome one can do little but admire his swagga and investment in himself and the project.
And Jihu partnering in this video adds to Aron B’s vision. A “true born” Chinese artist, she is unique as compared to most Canto artists who are introduced in multitude and never go beyond their own territory. Urban, sexy, beautiful, and extremely talented, Jihu, consumes the camera too – and there is no effort. It’s a natural vibe that draws even Western eyes an ears, and in doing so, provides no other reaction than the pulsing beat and complete pleasure.
And what about the track itself? Those in this profession can appreciate the fact that while on a video shoot they have no choice but to hear it over and over again. Usually after a few hours, one is looking for the nearest bullet or axe to put into the sound system. However, in this case, it gets. Aron B is an undeniable R&B singer; no playing around here. He has stayed away from dance infected R&B and planted himself in the roots of his craft with a track that is sure be a hit with the purists and perhaps the public too. While not able to speak about the Indian market, this song would easily knock many of the so-called R&B tracks currently infesting the charts right off their mark. It is infectious, catchy, radio friendly; it is performed with heart and style, and it just kicks in a club; making one want to bump his or her head “old school style” after listening a few times – unable to stop singing along. This track is also noticeably aimed at the West more than any other Aron B track that has come before. There is nothing obvious to tell you this is an Indian Singer in its music, vocals or approach.
As good as this is, it takes a lot more than having a great track to have a hit or success; even radio play for that matter these days. As much as the West likes to communicate that it is a level playing ground for everyone around the world, it is not. Let’s face it, how many Indian or Chinese artists do you hear on your radio or see perform via the airwaves? Speaking from inside the industry, it is evident how difficult it is to get things beyond the “gatekeepers.” Everyone is willing to take an artist’s money and do very little for it and what is replied by them when nothing happens is some excuse about the audience not taking to its look or vibe.
Basically, if an artist, even at the highest caliber is not white or black; which are what music consumers are accustomed to, no one really cares or really takes notice. If this level of artist brings the flavour an audience will get with, the “gatekeepers” are still present to work harder to stop diversity from breaking through rather than see it for what it is – quality at its best with the potential to reach the world rather than one or two continents. Mostly it is about control and the East and Far East scare the western music machine because they do not have control over it.
Aron B and Ayi Jihu realise completely what they are up against, however, playing it safe is not how an authentic artist creates something larger than life. This collaboration is without question a compelling case for everyone in the world to take notice. The numbers (following in their perspective countries) are already there. With the fan base growing steadily in India and China, the West has no alternative but to pay attention. Additionally, the differences and distances between the East and the West are tightening daily.
Talent, tenacity, independence, global awareness, and support from family and fans – in the billions – is catching these two artists up quite rapidly.
It has been indicated that Aron B will be featured on Ayi Jihu’s new single bringing their pairing full circle, and this is not a one-time go. The two powerhouses have plans to continue working together in a concerted effort to crossover their millions of fans. Speaking to Shlepp Entertainment Ltd CEO Stevie Eagle E, he stated, “working with an artist like Aron B is a critical part of our strategy. We turn down collaborative offers from many artists around the globe, some of whom are well known names, because we are intentionally building something different. We are opening new doors and causing some discomfort to the established powers. And, this is not due to arrogance. Music is global and should be seen as such. Because we are breaking barriers, it often means our progress is seemingly slower, however, we have a long-term view and plan and so far we are on track.
Working with someone like Aron B was to us just another step in the right direction. He is one of the few players who parallels Ayi Jihu’s potential. It was a perfect match and they are both very driven and talented people who are prepared to take on not only the West, but also their own people. They are not doing this in the traditional manner, however, with every step ahead, there is never a look back. Once this all comes to fruition, the world cannot help but take notice. We will have arrived with a one way ticket.”
Aron B has been off the scene working on his craft for almost a year and is determined to come back with a bang, bigger and better, which will ignite his following. He wants to crossover on his own terms. His new track will be released this year and it is believed to be an extraordinary hit, not only due to the music, but also for what it stands for. Ayi Jihu continues to rise and expand her fan base as well. Next year will see her first movie role, her new album and single, and various TV shows in America and Europe. Her super powered Fear Chaser project is set to reach another level as well.
It is the dawn of a new era and the beginning of real change in the global music industry as these two invisible giants are on the musical and Entertainment horizon.
For more information on Ayi Jihu visit her website www.Ayijihu.com
For more information on Aron B visit his official website
Check out Aron B on Wiki
Ayi Jihu Vocal Kung Fu training
International Chinese Star Ayi Jihu is going through a grueling regime in preparation for her hectic year.
Ayi Jihu is working with Motown Vocal Guru JR Skeete who has helped many artist discover their inner voice and reach their full potential as performers all over the world. JR uses a mixture of vocal exercises mixed with Tai Chi type body moves to strengthen and elevate the voice and help the artist ‘Articulate the view’ as he puts it of themselves.
Ayi says ‘The Vocal Kung Fu is so hard and it takes a lot out of me. It’s only part of my training. JR tries to get us to do that part of my training on the roof at sunset whenever we have the chance, He says the energies are strong then. I’m getting better at it and my voice is improving and getting stronger. In fact everything is getting stronger and my focus and control during performances is much improved. Breath is everything.’
Vocal and artist development Guru JR Skeete says: ‘This is the time for Ayi to prepare herself for what is to come. She is a unique artist with a lot on her shoulders and this year a lot is expected, so it’s my job to make sure she is prepared in all aspects for the rigors of this game at the highest level. She is maybe small but she is very strong and committed and that will stand her in good stead for the future. I use this vocal Kung Fu style to help an artist connect with their inner self and understand the strength and power they have within, so that they can express that to the world through their singing and movement. Artist like Ayi who dance alot benefit from this style as they are all about movement and how they dance is how they sing. The two things are connected.

This is shaping up to be an interesting year for Ayi Jihu as she launches her new album and single as well as her Fear Chaser short movie. Ayi says ‘My schedule at the moment is mad. All I do is rehearse, practice, sing and exercise. I do not know what the future holds but I want to be prepared and ready for whatever life throws at me. The good thing is I love what I do. Some of my friends look at me and think I do not have much of a normal life and I guess they are right, but my life is normal to me and I know that without the hard work and sacrifice their will be no true reward’.
Ayi Jihu continued: ‘JR is amazing, he has transformed my singing and understanding of my voice as well as help me understand the music more. He is a fountain of knowledge and experience and I am very lucky and blessed to have someone like him working with me.’
For more information on Ayi Jihu visit her official website www.ayijihu.com
Find out more about JR Skeete.
Bringing back the glory days of Hollywood – Ayi Jihu at the Fox Cineplex in Banning, California, USA
The glory days of the Movie House are probably long gone. Now where there where once palaces and ornate buildings, Chrome and carpet rules. So it’s nice to find a Movie House that is built in the old ways, and approaches the whole cinematic experience in the way movies where meant to be seen.
The Fox Cineplex in Banning, California, USA is one such place. It has stood in the same place since 1928. Back in the old days Hollywood stars would bring their wives (and girlfriends) their to watch the latest blockbuster. For Years it has been the center of Entertainment in the little town of Banning and for years it has drawn folks from all over the area including the affluent Palm Springs.
The Fox Cineplex has been the center of banning entertainment for almost 100 years and still is today.
When Ayi Jihu was told about the beautifully restored cinema she could not wait to see it for herself and was happy to take the offer for a private showing at the beautiful cinema of the film Warhorse.
Ayi and her team had the cinema virtually to themselves and were given a tour of the beautifully restored building. The Fox Cineplex cost Millions to restore and is now used by film makers around the world as well as drawing many photographers and artists to it’s doors.
Many Stars used to come to the Fox Cineplex to watch movies and also perform on it’s stage.

Ayi Jihu was intrigued by the story of a wallet that was found when the Cinema was being restored to its orginal glory. Apparently all those years ago, some guy had forgotten his wallet in the cinema. It was found and a Nationwide search was established to find the owner of the Wallet. With Local and National media become enthralled by the story of this wallet that had been lost in the cinema for almost half a century. Was the owner still alive? Would they be able to find him? The story caught the imagination of a Nation and eventually the owner of the wallet was located.
Banning has changed a bit over the years, but the Fox Cinplex has remained a part of the landscape.

As you sit back in the reclining seats and begin to take in your movie one cannot help but drift back to the dark days of the depression when people packed into Cinemas like Fox Cineplex all across America to escape their bleak lives for a few hours.
There is a wonderful simplicity about the Fox Cineplex and it’s staff. You feel like you are walking into someones home. It’s a place you want to be. As we left our private showing of the movie we could see the lines of people outside. Something I have not seen to often in America, it’s more of an English thing to line up in a straight line. The line was going around the block and everyone seemed content to wait and stand. All types of people too. Young kids, old couples, even some old soldiers. I wondered could they be all watching the same movie?
As the digital film era approaches Cinemas like the Fox Cineplex in Banning must covert or die. There is no room for celluloid anymore it seems. Converting a celluloid cinema from film to digital can cost hundreds of thousands and many cinema owners find themselves caught between a rock and a hard place. It’s convert or close. The fox cineplex is the labor of love of local businessman and entrepreneur Michael Frydrych. It’s a family business. Michael has worked in the Movie industry almost all his life and he could not resist buying the Fox Cineplex when the opportunity came up. He wanted to restore it to it’s original glory and bring something to the town of Banning. He succeeded.
Ayi loved the Cinema so much she returned to watch Red Tails there, and has also chosen to use the cinema to for her worldwide premier of the Fear Chaser short movie.
Banning is starting to boom again. New building projects and shopping centers are springing up, all spurred on by the Fox Cineplex which has attracted visitors from around the world for decades and still continues to do so. The staff at the Fox Cineplex are all very proud of where they work. Some have been working there for over a decade and show no signs of moving on
The history of this town is wrapped up in the Cinema. Everyone around comes to the Fox, spurring bigger, brasher movie houses for this quaint, unique cinema. It’s a Banning thing. It’s a bit of history and everyone in Banning and the surrounding areas seem very proud of their historic cinema.
Ayi Jihu said: ‘Coming from China, this type of place is magical to me, it’s like something you only read about or see in the movies. I love this place. Who knows I could have been sitting a seat that one of those huge Hollywood stars sat in. When you sit down in a Cinema like this you kind of wonder at all the things that have taken place there over the years. I don’t see many people taking such pride in places like this anymore, but here they care about every little thing, it’s great, and the popcorn is yummy! I have never had a whole cinema just to myself before, so that was nice too, if a bit strange at first. I’m really looking forward to having my premier here, maybe I will have everyone dress up 1920′s style just to make it even more fun.’
As the curtain closes on the age of film and digital takes over we can only hope that Movie houses like the Fox Cineplex all around the world can keep their charm and stay the same. We have far to many of the other kind of cinema already.
For more information about Chinese International star Ayi Jihu visit her website www.ayijihu.com
Find out more about the Fox Cineplex in Banning, California, USA.
Find out more about the Amazing Fear Chaser Movie here.
Why I believe in Love – Ayi Jihu
With Valentines day looming around the world, and couples hustling back and forth to gift shops trying to find the perfect expression of their love for their partners, we spoke to Chinese international star Ayi Jihu about her thoughts on the subject.
Ayi Jihu is giving away three posters to her fans, followers and friends for Valentine (all included in this post just right click to download) as a thank you for their support over the last year. With her schedule packed up for the foreseeable future as she begins training for her new short movie version of Fear Chaser (among other things) we managed to get her on the phone to speak briefly about Valentine, love and all things romance.
‘Anyone who knows me will know I am not a pink and cuddly type of girl. Don’t ask me why but it has never really been my kind of thing. I guess in that way I differ from most other Chinese young women, who are all about fluffy toys and Hello Kitty stuff. I am a big believer in love though, and I know that if you are lucky in life you will hopefully experience it at least once. I feel I can say I know what love is, and although it is romance, sunset walks and hearts, I have found it to be mostly hard work and tolerance when it comes to a relationship. We all know about the feelings we get when we first meet someone and how the sun can shine out of their, well you know what I mean. What I have learnt is that once you settle into a relationship there is much, much more to it than that. You really have to work hard at it and that is why I think it is important to really love a person for who they are, otherwise you just wont last when things start to go wrong, and trust me they always do at some point.
I think Valentines day is nice, but way too commercial these days and I can imagine the pressure some women put on their partners around this time. It’s very tough on guys, not all guys are great at romance, but that does not make them any less romantic. I think people need to work at this part of their relationships more, rather than just around Valentines. Every relationship needs work and building, what you put into it is what you get out, and if you only make an effort once a year you can not really expect very much.’
‘Right now I am working hard on my career, which makes it very hard for me to concentrate on Love, etc. Relationships need time and hard work, especially in the beginning, and I am just far too busy to give that time to anyone at this point. I am hoping that things will settle down for me in the future and I can start to thing about all that kind of stuff. I love what I do and I love the people I work with. I love inspiring the kids and helping them see a way out of their situation. I love the crowd when I am on stage, so I have enough love to keep me going for now. I hope people will enjoy the posters and I wish everyone a fantastic and lovely Valentines day. I would like to end by saying to all those who are alone, don’t worry, It is important to Love yourself first!’
For more information on Ayi Jihu visit her website www.ayijihu.com
Find out more about the Ayi Jihu Fear Chaser short movie here.
Ayi Jihu and Gladys Knight at the Fantastic Agua Casino
Chinese star Ayi Jihu met with Motown Legend Gladys Knight at the Agua Casino in Palm Springs. Ayi Jihu met with Gladys Knight and the two spent some time together before her show at the beautiful Agua Casino.
Some of the biggest names in show business play at the Agua Caliente Casino in Rancho Mirage. We spoke briefly with Ayi Jihu after the show. “It was a fantastic show, I have never seen her live before, in fact to be honest I have not seen much of her before, but I found I knew so many of her songs. I was supposed to meet with her in Wales UK around a month ago When James Womack hooked it up with her road management Larry Ward and due to my schedule I could not make it down to her show there. So when James Womack got in touch with us and told us they would be in Palm Springs the same time as me I was so excited. Meeting her was just amazing, it was short but very sweet, she is so kind and giving and she was very nice to me. She is a fantastic performer and singer and the stories she tells on stage are fantastic too. I learnt so much from watching her perform and being around her. I hope one day to be half as good as she is.”
Ayi continued: “The Agua has a wonderful arena for artists, one of the best I have ever seen and heard. I have now seen several desert casinos and they are all very, very nice. I hope I get to perform at these Casinos in the near future. If you come to LA or Palm Springs you gotta check out some of these desert Casinos. I know everyone thinks Vegas is the place and it is fantastic I have been there many times, but there are some great Casinos and shows in the desert too.
I want to say a special thank you to James Womack, Larry Ward and Michael Frydrych for making this happen. I am blessed to have a wonderful team.
For more information on Ayi Jihu visit her website www.ayijihu.com
Find out more about Gladys Knight here
Why not check out the Agua Casino and Spa
Ayi celebrates all women in Toronto Canada
Chinese Star Ayi Jihu surprised and enthralled a packed house in City Club Toronto when she turned up to perform at the launch of A Celebration of Women Foundation Inc. Ayi is in Toronto on a goodwill tour representing the organisation that looks after and celebrates women all over the world before she heads the USA to attend the Palm Springs International Film Festival.
We were able to get exclusive backstage footage of Ayi.
Check back for part 2 of this video.
For more information on Ayi Jihu visit www.Ayijihu.com
For more information on A Celebration of Women Foundation Inc visit their website here.
Chinese Star Ayi Jihu arrives in Canada
China’s first international Lady of R&B and global Philanthropist Ayi Jihu has landed in Toronto Canada for the first time as she set of on a goodwill tour of Toronto that will see her perform several shows and speaking engagements in the world famous city.
Ayi will be staying at the one of the worlds finest boutique establishments ‘The Windsor Arms hotel‘ in the Yorkville area of Toronto. The famous Windsor Arms hotel is the home to many stars staying in Toronto and Richard Burton famously proposed to Elizabeth Taylor here.
On a cold, rainy and windy day in Toronto Ayi Jihu brightened up the day as she wowed the patrons of the hotel with her arrival. Ayi will be appearing at an exclusive event at City Club 296 Richmond St West, Toronto ON, in the city. She is going to be performing at the launch of the A Celebration of Women Foundation inc and is supposed to be doing a surprise appearance at around midnight. The Firemen of Toronto will Also be doing a bit of a show there and Ayi Is looking forward to meeting the ‘Buff’ Firemen of Toronto. Tickets are almost sold out to this event which will see some of the cities most prominent women, businessmen and names come together to celebrate the launch of the foundation that dedicates itself to helping and promoting women all over the world. You can get your ticket online here.
Speaking to Star News Ayi Jihu said ‘I’m very excited about being here. I just can’t wait to discover Toronto and meet the people. Driving here to the Windsor Arms I went through China Town and it was amazing, much bigger than China Town in London and to be honest it looks better too. I’m going to make sure i get out there soon and check it out, meet the people and get a feel for the place. I will be letting everyone know about everything I see and do while I am here.
Speaking about the hotel Ayi said ‘It’s amazing, the detail and feel of the place is fantastic and my room is wonderful. I will be checking it out fully over the next few days and letting you all know more about it. Many of my fans around the world like to know about where I stay and what it is like so I always try to get the information out to them, especially those in China looking for great things to see and places to go when they are thinking of travelling.
We asked Ayi what she will be doing in Canada? ‘I have a busy schedule and it seems to be getting more all the time, but anyone who knows me, knows I love to work. I have several speaking engagements talking to kids and several performances including tonight at the City Club in Toronto. I am also going to be doing a lot of photography and video work in the city and this great hotel. I’m hoping to get a moment to myself too, just to relax. The best way to keep us is to check here or www.ayijihu.org. For the people in Toronto just listen out to your favorite radio station as they will be doing updates on some of things I will be doing in the City.
For More information on Ayi jihu visit her website www.ayijihu.com
For more information of A Celebration of Women Foundation Inc, visit their website
To discover the exclusive Windsor Arms Hotel check out their website here.































































Comments