Chapter 136: Homecoming - September 10th, 2003
Date: September 10th, 2003
After an eventful few months in Nigeria, Holmes decided it was time to return to Chicago. Despite the burgeoning success of AfroGlobal Entertainment, personal matters beckoned.
- Reason for Departure: Holmes's wife, Serene, was nearing her due date with their child, and his niece, Aria, was celebrating her birthday on October 2nd.
Realistic Thought:
- "I need to be there for Serene. This is an important time for us. And Aria's birthday...we always keep it low-key, just family. I want to make sure it stays that way. No need for media frenzy around my family."
AfroGlobal Entertainment's Signed Artists:
In the short time since its inception, AfroGlobal Entertainment had already signed a diverse range of talented artists, each with a unique sound and style.
1. Emeka Nonso: (Afrobeat)
- Discovery: Discovered by Aisha Bello during a local music festival in Enugu. Emeka's infectious rhythms and powerful vocals impressed her immediately.
- Genre: Afrobeat with contemporary influences.
2. Phill Caleb: (Highlife)
- Discovery: Found performing in a small club in Port Harcourt. Phill's soulful voice and masterful guitar playing captivated Aisha.
- Genre: Highlife with a modern twist.
3. Mary Chidinma: (Gospel)
- Discovery: Recommended by Obi Nnaemeka after hearing her perform at a church in Lagos. Mary's angelic voice and uplifting lyrics touched his heart.
- Genre: Gospel with contemporary R&B influences.
4. Chinedu Samson: (Hip Hop/1. Chinedu Samson: (Hip Hop/Rap)
- Discovery: Came across Chinedu's demo tape sent in by a fan. Chinedu's lyrical prowess and social commentary resonated with Holmes.
- Genre: Hip Hop/Rap with a socially conscious message.
Realistic Scene:
- The AfroGlobal Entertainment headquarters bustled with activity as artists rehearsed, recorded, and collaborated on new music.
Farewell at the Airport:
On the day of his departure, Holmes was seen off at Murtala Muhammed International Airport by Aliko Dangote, his family, Femi Kuti, and several other artists he had befriended during his stay.
- Artists Present:
- Femi Kuti
- 2face Idibia
- Emeka Nonso
- Phill Caleb
- Mary Chidinma
- Chinedu Samson
Realistic Conversation:
- Holmes: "Femi, thank you for everything. 'Justice' wouldn't have been the same without you."
- Femi Kuti: "The pleasure was all mine, Holmes. Come back soon, my brother."
- Holmes (to 2face): "2face, it was great getting to know you. You have a real gift. Promise you'll visit me in Chicago sometime."
- 2face: "I will, Holmes. I promise. Stay in touch."
- Farewell to the Dangote Family:
- Holmes exchanged heartfelt goodbyes with Aliko Dangote and his family.
- Fatima Dangote gave Holmes a warm hug, expressing her admiration for his music and business acumen.
Keeping in Touch:
Realistic Conversation:
- Holmes: "Aliko, I'll be staying in close contact. Let's keep pushing AfroGlobal to new heights."
- Aliko Dangote: "I'm counting on it, Holmes. We've built something special here. Don't worry, I'll make sure everything runs smoothly while you're away."
**Billboard Ranking (September 10th, 2Billboard Ranking (September 10th, 2003):
- Billboard Hot 100:
- #1: Beyoncé featuring Jay-Z - "Crazy in Love"
- #8: "Justice" - Holmes, Femi Kuti & 2face Idibia
Realistic Dialogue at the Airport:
- As Holmes was about to board the plane, he turned back to Dangote and said, "This is not goodbye, Aliko, this is just see you later. We have a revolution to start in the music industry!"
- Dangote smiled and replied, "Safe travels, Holmes. Know that AfroGlobal is in good hands. Let's continue to make history."
Holmes' Parting Thoughts:
Realistic Thought:
- "Chicago, here I come. Family first, always. But I'm leaving a piece of my heart here in Nigeria. AfroGlobal is more than just a business; it's a legacy."
Chapter 137: Back Home - September 13th, 2003
Date: September 13th, 2003
After a long flight, Holmes finally arrived in Chicago, eager to be reunited with his family.
- Time of Arrival: Mid-afternoon, allowing for ample daylight to greet his loved ones.
Reunion with Serene:
The first reunion was with his wife, Serene, who was now heavily pregnant and eagerly awaiting his return.
Realistic Scene:
- Holmes arrived at their luxurious home in the upscale neighborhood of Lincoln Park. Serene, her baby bump prominent, greeted him with a warm embrace and a passionate kiss.
Realistic Conversation:
- Serene: "Baby, you're finally here! I missed you so much. How was Nigeria?"
- Holmes: "I missed you too, sweetheart. Nigeria was amazing, but nothing beats coming home to you."
Reunion with Family:
His mother, Alicia, his brother Teddy, Teddy's wife Celeste, and his niece Aria were all there to welcome him home.
Realistic Scene:
- The house was filled with laughter and chatter as Holmes hugged his family members. Aria, who was almost a year old, gurgled with delight as Holmes scooped her up in his arms.
Realistic Conversation:
- Alicia: "Welcome home, son. We're so glad to have you back. Serene has been counting down the days."
- Holmes: "It's great to be back, Mom. How's everyone doing?"
- Teddy: "We're all good, man. You missed a few family dinners, but we saved you some leftovers."
- Celeste: "Aria's been saying 'Da-da' a lot lately. She definitely missed her uncle."
September 14th, 2003 - Sunday:September 14th, 2003 - Sunday:
The next day, Holmes took Serene to Northwestern Memorial Hospital, one of the most renowned hospitals in Chicago, for a routine check-up.
Realistic Scene:
- The hospital was bustling with activity, but the private suite provided a calm and comfortable environment for Serene.
Realistic Conversation:
- Dr. Evans (Serene's OB/GYN): "Everything looks great, Mrs. Holmes. The baby is healthy and strong. We're just a few weeks away from delivery."
- Holmes: "That's great to hear, Doctor. We're getting so excited."
- Serene: "Are there any precautions I should be taking in these final weeks?"
- Dr. Evans: "Just continue to rest, eat well, and avoid any unnecessary stress. We'll see you again next week for another check-up."
September 15th, 2003 - Monday:
Holmes spent the day catching up with his family and making preparations for Aria's upcoming birthday.
Realistic Scene:
- Holmes and Teddy spent the afternoon putting together a swing set in the backyard, while Alicia and Celeste baked a cake for Aria.
September 16th, 2003 - Tuesday:
As Holmes was working in his home studio, he received a phone call.
Realistic Scene:
- The phone rang, interrupting Holmes' creative flow. He glanced at the caller ID and saw an unfamiliar number.
Realistic Conversation:
- Holmes: "Hello?"
- Voice: "Yo, Holmes? It's Weezy, man. Lil Wayne."
- Holmes: "Weezy! What's up, man? Long time no talk."
- Lil Wayne: "Yeah, man, I been listenin' to what you been doin' out there. You still makin' that fire, you know? I was thinkin', maybe we could cook somethin' up together."
- Holmes: "I'm always down to collaborate, Weezy. What do you have in mind?"
- Lil Wayne: "- Lil Wayne: "I got this track, man, it's straight fire. Needs that Holmes touch, you feel me? Wanna lay down a verse?"
- Holmes: "Send it over, Weezy. I'll check it out and see what I can do."
- Lil Wayne: "Aight, man, I'll hit you up with the details. It's gonna be epic."
Holmes's Thought:
"Lil Wayne? Damn, it's been a minute. He was always talented, but he's really blown up since then. A collaboration would be interesting."
The chapter ends with Holmes contemplating the potential collaboration with Lil Wayne, wondering what the outcome would be.