With a voice as smooth as palm wine and beats that pulsate like the heart of Lagos, Flavour is not just another musician in the Afrobeats landscape. He’s a seasoned chef, meticulously stirring genres together to create a rich musical stew that intoxicates audiences worldwide. Flavour’s music is more than just entertainment; it’s a vibrant celebration of life, love, and Nigerian heritage, spiced with catchy melodies and infectious energy. Let’s dive into the the life and career of Nigerian singer, Flavour N’abania through this article from Naijassador.
Early life
Chinedu Izuchukwu Okoli professionally known as Flavour N’abania or Ijele, was born on November 23, 1983, in Enugu State, Nigeria. Flavour is originally from Umunze in Orumba South LGA, Anambra State, Nigeria. He was born to his father Benjamin Onyemaechi Okoli and his mother Stella Okoli. Flavour was raised alongside three siblings.
He discovered his talent for music at a very young age and by the age of 13 he started playing the drums for his church choir in Enugu. His pastor then introduced him to a friend, who was Chris I. Ordor, the CEO of SoundCity Communications. Flavour started playing the drums professionally and by 1999, he started playing the keyboard as well. He also used to provide back-up vocals for other musicians at SoundCity where he went to build his musical talent.
Career
Flavour’s musical journey began where many African melodies found their roots – the church choir. His youthful passion blossomed into full-fledged talent, propelling him to win the 2005 Star Talent Show competition, a launchpad that sent him skyrocketing toward stardom. He released his debut album, “N’abania,” in 2005, introducing the world to his signature blend of Afrobeats and highlife, sprinkled with reggae and soul influences. Tracks like “N’abania” and “Ada Ada” quickly became national anthems, establishing Flavour as a force to be reckoned with in the music scene.
Since then, Flavour has gifted his fans a smorgasbord of musical delights. Albums like “Uplifted” and “Ijele – The Traveler” showcased his artistic evolution, while singles like “My People,” “Levels,” and “Oliver Twist” cemented his place among the Afrobeats royalty. His collaborations with artists like Phyno, Mr. Raw, and 2face Idibia added a unique flavour to his musical tapestry, proving his versatility and collaborative spirit.
Entrepreneurship
Flavour’s passion extends far beyond the recording studio. He established the Flavour Foundation, a testament to his dedication to empowering youths and providing educational opportunities. He’s also a savvy entrepreneur, launching 2nite Flavour nightclub and 2nite Flavour Entertainment music label, proving his keen understanding of the industry.
Cultural Ambassador
Flavour wears his Igbo heritage proudly, weaving cultural elements into his music and fashion. He’s not just a musician; he’s an ambassador, championing Nigerian culture on international stages and reminding the world of the vibrancy and richness of his homeland.
Flavour’s albums and songs
Chinedu Izuchukwu Okoli, better known as Flavour, is not just a Nigerian musician; he’s a master chef of Afrobeats, carefully blending highlife grooves, Afrobeats swagger, and soul-stirring melodies to create a musical feast that tantalizes the ears and ignites the dance floor. Let’s delve into his discography as compiled by Naijassador, a treasure trove of rhythmic gems worth savoring:
N’abania (2005)
Flavour’s debut album arrived like a spicy dish, bursting with tracks like the title song and “Ada Ada,” introducing his smooth vocals and infectious highlife melodies to the world. It proved the young artist was more than just a flash in the pan.
Uplifted (2010)
This sophomore effort was a delectable mix of Afrobeats and highlife, with “Nwa Baby” and “Oyi” becoming instant hits. Flavour incorporated pop sensibilities, hinting at the genre-bending prowess he’d unleash later.
Blessed (2012)
Flavour explored a wider palate with collaborations like “Obodo Oyibo” with M.I. Abaga and “Golibe” with Omawumi. Songs like “Shake” and “Sexy Rosey” kept the dance floor sizzling.
Thankful (2014)
A long-awaited feast, “Thankful” dished out 22 tracks of pure Afrobeats goodness. “Mama” and “Ghost Mode” tugged at heartstrings, while “Current” and “Shake Body” got pulses racing.
Ijele – The Traveler (2017)
This surprise album was a journey through Flavour’s Igbo heritage, featuring the soulful anthem “Obianuju” and the traditional groove of “Awele.” It showcased his versatility and connection to his roots.
Flavour of Africa (2020)
This album broadened Flavour’s canvas, incorporating global influences like “My Sweetie” with Diamond Platnumz and “Chop Life” with Tekno. The title track was a love letter to the continent, showcasing his cultural pride.
Levels Pro Max (2023)
A recent EP, “Levels Pro Max” proves Flavour hasn’t lost his touch. Featuring the chart-topping “Levels” and the groovy “Berna Reloaded,” it’s a reminder of his ability to keep the Afrobeats party pulsating.
Flavour’s discography is more than just albums; it’s a buffet of singles and collaborations that satisfy every musical craving. From the soulful duet “Fall in Love” with Efya to the energetic dancefloor heater “Levels,” Flavour is constantly experimenting and pushing boundaries.
Awards and Nominations
Flavour, isn’t just a musician; he’s a decorated king in the Afrobeats kingdom, his reign adorned with a dazzling array of awards and nominations. Let’s learn of his achievements, a testament to his talent, dedication, and undeniable impact on the music scene:
Headies Awards
- 2012 Best Indigenous Artist/Group
- 2013 Best High Life Video (“Nwa Baby (Ashawo Remix”)
- 2013 Best Video of the Year (“Ada Ada”)
- 2013 Best Indigenous Concept (“Ada Ada”)
- 2017 Special Recognition Award
- 2018 Artiste of the Decade
MTV Africa Music Awards
- 2014 Best Male Artist
- 2015 Best Male Artist
- 2016 Best Live Act
- 2018 Best African Act (First-ever win for this category)
Nigeria Entertainment Awards
- 2012 Best Indigenous Artist/Group
- 2013 Best R&B/Pop Album (“Once Upon a Time”)
- 2014 Best Male Artiste of the Year
City People Entertainment Awards
- 2012 Most Promising Act of the Year
- 2013 Best New Musician of the Year (Male)
- 2014 Best Male Musician of the Year
- 2017 Artiste of the Year (Male)
Other Awards
- 2013 Ghana Music Awards – African Artiste of the Year
- 2014 African Muzik Magazine Awards – Best Traditional Artist
- 2020 African Muzik Magazine Awards – Best Male Artist (West Africa)
This list is just a glimpse into the glittering crown Flavour wears. His awards and nominations are a testament to his musical prowess, cultural impact, and enduring popularity. They are a reflection of his ability to captivate audiences, push boundaries, and elevate Afrobeats to new heights.
Major Endorsements
- Guinness Nigeria: Flavour has been a long-term ambassador for Guinness Nigeria, featuring in memorable campaigns and commercials that celebrate Nigerian culture and heritage. His association with the iconic beer brand has solidified his image as a symbol of Nigerian pride and success.
- Airtel Nigeria: Flavour’s partnership with Airtel, a leading telecommunications company in Nigeria, has seen him promoting their services and mobile data plans through engaging commercials and social media campaigns. This collaboration resonates with his tech-savvy fanbase and highlights the importance of connectivity in today’s world.
- Peak Milk: Flavour’s warm personality and family-friendly image make him a perfect fit for Peak Milk, a popular brand of dairy products in Nigeria. He has appeared in commercials promoting the nutritional benefits of milk, targeting families and health-conscious consumers.
- UDV Nigeria (Martini, Gordon’s Gin, etc.): Flavour has collaborated with UDV Nigeria, the makers of popular alcoholic beverages like Martini and Gordon’s Gin, on various campaigns and events. This partnership leverages his popularity to reach a mature audience and promote responsible drinking.
- Hyundai Nigeria: Flavour’s association with Hyundai Nigeria, a leading automobile manufacturer, has seen him promoting their car models through commercials and social media posts. This collaboration appeals to his affluent fanbase and showcases his stylish image.
- Other Local and International Brands: Flavour has also partnered with various local and international brands across diverse sectors, including telecommunications (9mobile), food and beverages (Coca-Cola), fashion (Mofepe Clothing), and real estate (Landmark Village).
Personal life
The Nigerian singer is not married to anyone however; he shares children with multiple women. There was a rumour in 2015 that the singer got married in a private ceremony with one of his baby mamas. This is not true as he has since publicly debunked the rumors and made it clear that he is not ready to walk that path with anyone yet.
Although he has been in several romantic relationships in the past, Flavour is currently not dating anyone. Here are some details of his baby mamas:
Sandra Okagbue
Sandra Okagbue is one of Flavour’s baby mamas and she is a Nigerian model, actress, and businesswoman. She is also known to be a princess and daughter of the former Obi of Onitsha. Sandra met Flavour in 2014 and the two began dating. She subsequently gave birth to their daughter and Flavour’s first child in 2014. Four years later, Sandra welcomed her second child with Flavour. The pair’s relationship was not stable as they went on and off. They eventually called it quits a few months later.
Anna Banner
Anna Banner is Flavour’s second baby mama and she is a Nigerian actress and model. Anna met Flavour in early 2015 and they had their first child that same year. The pair soon ended their romance as soon as it began.
Onyinye Onungwa
Onyinye Onungwa is said to have been Flavour’s first girlfriend before his rise to prominence. Onyinye is an American-based video vixen and she was seen in Flavour’s music video for his hit song, Shake Ukwu. Onyinye claimed that the singer ended their relationship when he began dating other women soon after his rise to prominence.
The popular singer is a father to three biological daughters and he has one adopted son. The name of his daughter is, Munachi Gabrielle Okoli Gabrielle was born on September 29, 2014, and her sister, Kaima Okoli was born on November 23, 2018. Their mother is Flavour’s first baby mama, Sandra Okagbue. Flavour’s second baby mama, Anna Banner is the mother to his third daughter, Sophia Okoli. She was born on August 1, 2015.
Semah Weifur is Flavour’s adopted son and he is visually impaired. He is originally from Liberia and was adopted in 2017. Before the adoption, Semah had been under the care of a Monrovia-based Non-Governmental Organization known as the Christian Association of the Blind (CAB). Semah is also following the path of his adopted father and he has a great voice.
Flavour has made it clear that he had no intention of getting married to any of his exes. He also explained that marriage will serve as a big distraction for him and that those artists who get married in the prime of their careers are bound to crash once they get married.
It was widely speculated that Flavour and fellow artist, Chidinma Ekile were romantically linked. The rumours of her and Flavour dating began to circulate after they were seen sharing a kiss on the set of Flavour’s music video. The singers have since dispelled this rumour while stating that they are only friends and their actions on set were strictly professional. He further stated that they were shooting a musical video for a love song and they had to make their appearance seem real to their fans.
Controversy
Flavour has had his fair share of controversies. On August 29, 2012, it was reported that Flavour was involved in a legal battle with Ghanaian music duo Wutah, over the alleged theft of the song “Kwarikwa”. According to the article posted by Nigerian Entertainment Today, “Kwarikwa” is said to be an exact copy of “Kotosa”, a song by the Ghanaian music duo. They also accused Flavour of stealing their song’s rhythm, chorus, and tempo. The issue was later settled between the artists.
Flavour’s music is not just for the ears; it’s a full sensory experience. His vibrant music videos showcase his charisma and cultural pride, while his live performances are electric celebrations of life, love, and Afrobeats. Flavour’s journey is more than a personal success story; it’s a testament to the power of Afrobeats. He has taken a genre with deep roots in Nigeria and introduced it to the world, adding his unique spice to the global musical menu. From packed stadiums in Lagos to sold-out shows across Europe and the Americas, Flavour continues to conquer new territories, leaving behind a trail of dancing bodies and satisfied souls.
Things you should know about Flavour, a Nigerian artiste
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Written by Sarah Aboje
