This Sunday sees Nigeria take to the Big Brother Africa stage with Nigerian reggae and dancehall singer and songwriter Patoranking. The 24-year-old started his musical career working with artists such as XProject, Konga, Slam and Reggie Rockstone. In 2010 he signed a record deal with Igberaga Records, releasing the track “Up in D Club”. He also worked under the label Dem Mama Records, before signing with Foston Musik earlier this year.
His full name is Patrick Nnaemeka Okorie, and he acquired his stage
name Patoranking from a Jamaican artist he met in Lagos. His background
includes a performing arts’ career as a street jam and carnival dancer
and his influences span from Buju Banton and Fela Kuti to Lucky Dube and
Chaka Demus. He describes his music as a morally inclined variation of
dancehall.
In 2012, Patoranking released the single "Iya Bisi". Featuring Qdot
and Kbaj, who helped compose the song, it is a fusion of dancehall and
Fuji. The following year he released the song, and its music video,
"Alubarika". The song translates to "God's Blessings" and features
vocals from Timaya. The song was a springboard for establishing a fan
base and working with renowned musicians.
This year he released the song "Girlie O", the music video being shot
in London and directed by Moe Musa. A few months later he did a remix
which features Tiwa Savage. Earlier this year, he won awards at the City
People Entertainment Awards and the Nigeria Entertainment Awards. With a
couple of nominations for the upcoming Channel O Music Video Awards,
for Most Gifted Newcomer and Most Gifted Ragga Dancehall, it has
certainly been a good year for Patoranking.
On Sunday Africa gets to see him on the Big Brother Hotshots stage.
Make sure you watch the show for a scintillating performance from the
acclaimed Nigerian musician.
Big Brother Africa
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