DPS ARTICLE

After experiencing immense struggle and involvement in gangs, Kelechi the artist age 20 years old, Igbo Nigerian highlife artist coming from the depth of Abia state. Born out of the ghetto and extreme poverty decided that it was time to change his life and improve his situation through his unspeakable talent of making “homely music” and music that gives feeling of Nigeria of at age 17 kelechi began a job as plantain seller at the market square with his mother Nkechi, he was a regular drummer and entertainer at the market square where villagers would describe him as the “electric tony Allen”. Often being an influence on the younger generation who see him as a brother like a figure and want to improve their lives as kelechi did. Kelechi bringing fresh new sounds not heard in the village of ngwa. He was discovered by Timaya a former plantain seller who to defeated poverty because of his sense of motivation and drive to become a great artist through his love of music. Timaya says that Kelechi is “flourishing golden boy who is going to do great and magical things with his amazing talent to make fresh new African sounds”. Timaya and Kelechi recently released their new single “nwanne di ma” which means “country’s brother” this song said by kelechi highlights the achievement a brother can have in Nigeria, as Nigeria is seen as a place there one can not move up but kelechi and Timaya break down this stereotype and show that Hard work is the motive to help a “country’s brother” and also to reflect the hardship of being born into poverty. 

We asked kelechi 4 questions about his new life as a New and emerging artist under the wing of the most known African artist worldwide.

What was your major breakthrough?

When I was 15 I had discovered my love for drumming and music emerging especially with beats and melodies. By age 17, 2 years later I had written this song called “sweet orente” with adekunle, my dear friend and wrote a letter to myself saying “I know it is going to happen for you” and 4 months later the song went viral on YouTube which we uploaded from a run down computer in those public computer shops.

Which artists do you most admire?

My Heroes aremuddy waters, howlin’ wolf, little Walter, 2pac, Stevie wonder and Chaka khan and André 3000 especially his album stankonia- it is the best thing you will ever hear. Trust me.

What’s has been your biggest challenge?

 It’s always a challenge to put my ideas because I have never had to do that but now that I am signed to a label I am more libel to tell them my every move. 

What one song would work as the soundtrack to your life?

A song called “Everybody loves the sunshine” by Roy Ayers. It is the happiest song I have ever listened to as it embodies such joyfulness and happiness, as it helps me see the light at the end of the tunnel.