Nigerian artists can be regarded as one of the biggest influences in music and culture on both the African continent and the world, with artists such as Burna Boy, Wizkid and Davido consistently making their mark locally and internationally.
With the population being so high and competition in the music industry being a factor it is always marvellous to see more artists continuously growing and coming out of that sphere, but we wonder how?
“I see things differently. As many as the stars are, there is still enough sky for them to all shine individually. My mind set about competition and challenges changed and I see only the possibilities, the sky is big enough for us all and I shine differently,” says musician Patoranking.
He takes some time to chat to us on the eve of his much-anticipated album, Wilmer, which means Famous in German also named after his daughter.
The artists whose real name is Patrick Nnaemeka Okorie became widely popular in South Africa for his legendary collaborations, having been featured with artists such as AKA, Khuli Chana and Nasty C to name a few.
“One might say my sound has changed quite a bit but I like to say it has grown,” says Patoranking.
“It has evolved over the last few years and this came from my thirst to understand my abilities, genre and the craft of fusing, infusing, complimenting and creating.”
He reveals that the writing part was one of the most challenging parts of bringing this album to life.
“I didn’t hold back, and I always love the sense of abandon where the music takes me over completely and nothing else matters,” he reveals.
“I allowed myself to feel, I did not suppress any thoughts and I completely let go and poured it all into the album.”
Throughout his challenges in the industry, Patoranking has always had his mind set on making it in the music industry and never thought of quitting.
Another challenge the artist reveals was selecting a track list due to having a lot of strong songs to choose from, giving us hope there will be more music for us after the album.
An exciting collaboration to look forward to on the album is one with our very own Busiswa.
“It was amazing, she is amazing, I mean she is the queen of Gqom and it was a huge blessing for her to grace the track.”
“It is a dance track and I hope you are ready to open fire on the dance floor.”
The artist is inspired by his various collaborations, Bob Marley, but mostly the journey of fatherhood.
“Fatherhood has changed a lot about how I see life, how I react to life and the people around me.”
“I care a bit more than I used to and so I feel deeply with creating music, it’s beautiful being a parent.”
Besides expecting “Fire!” as he is known for, he hopes his fans take the fact that they can be original and still try new things, be conscious about the environment, love and not forget to live, laugh, dance and be happy.
“I want them to grow with me.”
As one of the pioneers of African music to the world we had to ask him where he thinks the music of this continent is currently at.
“We are in view now; actually we have a lot of attention focused on us as Africans, on our music. Our sound is fresh and interesting and everyone wants a piece of it. It’s a great time to be African,” Patoranking says.
“I am super happy to be part of the generation to magnify and utilise the bridge which takes Africa to the world.”
When asked to use one word to describe himself
“Curious!”
“I know I am not where I was before, but I am still on a journey and learning every day.
Making mistakes and learning from them, taking risks and overcoming fears. I am keen to know it all and that interest, that curiosity and thirst keeps showing and leading me into new realms.