A roll call of Nigeria’s musical icons, global cultural ambassadors, and big music artists will not be complete without Chinedu Okoli, professionally called Flavour N’abania.
Known for his lively voice, his songs are mostly delivered with a smooth blend of English and Igbo languages. Flavours’ performances are energy filled and typically involve thrilling fans with his signature dance move — twisting his waist.
Also called ‘Flavour of Africa’, he describes himself as ‘Africa’s Highlife King’. His brand of music is Afro Hip-Life – a fusion of African rhythm, Highlife, and contemporary Jazz.
Born in Enugu state but hails from Anambra, the singer, songwriter, performer, and multi-instrumentalist started his music career as a drummer for a local church in Enugu, at the age of 13. He was introduced to the CEO of SoundCity Communications, Chris Odor by the resident pastor. He later joined the company on an educational scholarship to study music while serving as a backing vocal for other musicians at SoundCity.
Flavour’s first album’s success was limited to Enugu State. The album titled “N’abania “featured Mr. Raw and was released in 2005 through Obaino Music. It was his second album titled “Uplifted” which was released in 2010 through South Africa based Lolhihop Records that shoot Flavour to national and international fame. The album is made up of hit singles including Nwa Baby (Ashawo Remix), Adamma, and Oyi remix which featured Tiwa Savage.
‘Blessed’ was released in 2012 through 2nite Entertainment and Irocking Ltd. Many producers worked on the album and it was released on the day Flavour opened 2nite Club. Commenting on the album, Flavour told iROKTV that it was a perfect production.
“I think I’m growing. This is my third… Now it’s time to give them the music, like define myself,” he said. “I have to be more mature with my music, lyrics, and instrumentation wise. I worked with tons of producers and the whole production process made sense.”
In 2014, Flavour’s album ‘Thankful’ consists of singles including a love ballad titled ‘Ololufe’ and a fast-tempo Afro-Pop named ‘Wake Up’, featuring Chidinma and Wande Coal respectively. The album was described by Nollywood actress, Genevieve as ‘too good’. Flavour followed his 2014 album with ‘Ijele the traveler’, in 2017. In 2018, he released two singles, with one featuring Yemi Alade.
In the course of his career, Flavour has shared the stage with music artists including Snoop Dogg, Ciara, French Montana, Lauryn Hill, Akon, and Rick Ross. He has also performed at national and international music events across several countries.
Flavour has won several prestigious awards including Hip Hop World Awards for Best Collabo in 2011, Channel O Music Video Awards for Best R&B for Oyi Remix featuring Tiwa Savage in 2012, and at the Nigeria Music Video Awards, his song, Ada Ada won awards in four categories in 2013.
The ‘King of HighLife’ has taste for the fine things of life. From properties to beautiful women, Flavour goes after the best. According to reports, Flavour has a multi-million naira mansion in Lekki, Lagos State, and a collection of exotic automobiles. He dated and fathered two daughters with two beauty queens – Sandra Okagbue and Anna Ebiere Banner.
In 2017, Flavour told Punch Newspaper that marriage was not on his plan because “music is a very jealous lover and it is quite difficult combining an active music career with anything else. One of them would suffer and I don’t think I’m ready for that now.”
The 36-year-old artist seems to enjoy flaunting his physique on social media, an action that has won him both admirations and criticisms. In an interview with Sunday Scoop, quoted by Information Nigeria, Flavour said he goes shirtless because ladies find his body appealing.
“Many of them are not satisfied until I show them my muscles. When I’m on stage, ladies appeal to me to take off my shirt and they even struggle to touch me.”
Speaking to Coke Studio, Flavour said soccer and charity are the only things that could rival his love for music.
To upcoming artists, Flavour said: “It’s all on you – nobody will do anything for you. It’s tough but you have to accept it. Even if someone does anything for you – they will need to reap on that so do not give up on yourself. Despite negativity, start building yourself.’
- PHOTOS: After 48 Days in Hospital, Boy Labelled Witch and Abandoned is Discharged - August 8, 2021
- Travellers Complain Over Fly Infested Aminu Kano Airport - August 6, 2021
- Ondo 2020: Mimiko Criticises Akeredolu’s Performance - September 28, 2020
