In the vibrant tapestry of Nigerian music, Tekno stands out as a prodigious talent, effortlessly blending Afrobeats rhythms with contemporary sounds to create chart-topping hits that resonate both locally and internationally.
Born Augustine Miles Kelechi, Tekno’s meteoric rise from a young aspiring artist to a global music sensation is a testament to his relentless passion, innovative creativity, and unparalleled work ethic. In this article, we’ll delve into the life, career, and impact of this Nigerian musical maestro. This article from Naijassador will look in depth in the life and career of Nigerian superstar Tekno.
Early Life
Augustine Miles Kelechi Okechukwu professionally known as Tekno was born on December 17, 1992, in Bauchi State, Nigeria. Although Tekno’s family is originally from Ivo local government area in Ebonyi state, they moved around the country while he was young. His father was a member of the Nigerian Army, which necessitated several relocations including Nassarawa, Kaduna, and Abuja during Tekno’s formative years.
This exposure to diverse cultures and environments enriched his musical palette, instilling in him a versatile approach to music creation. Tekno was raised in a family of six children which included five boys and a girl. His young brother who goes by the name Spotless is also a Nigerian musician.
Raised in a musically inclined family, he developed a keen interest in music at a tender age. This prompted his family to enroll young Tekno in a music school at the age of eight. He learned how to play with the piano and guitar and also developed his musical strengths.
Career
Tekno’s musical journey began in earnest during his teenage years. His early forays into music production and songwriting caught the attention of industry insiders, paving the way for collaborations with established artists. As a musical artist, Tekno was first signed with the record label known as K-Money Entertainment. Tekno’s debut single, “Holiday” featuring Davido, garnered significant airplay and set the stage for subsequent hits.
In 2012, Tekno met popular entertainers like comedian Julius Agwu, Iyanya, and Ubi Franklin at an event in Abuja. At this event, Tekno rendered the cover of Ice Prince’s “Oleku” which he changed to an Igbo phrase “Onye Ne Kwu.” Tekno became friends with Ubi Franklin who was then the manager of Made Men Music Group (MMMG). He soon moved to Lagos and on October 5, 2013, he signed a recording contract with the record label. This marked a pivotal moment at the beginning of his ascent to stardom.
It was his 2016 smash hit, “Pana,” that catapulted him into the limelight, earning him widespread acclaim and accolades. The infectious melody and catchy lyrics of “Pana” resonated with audiences across Africa and beyond, solidifying Tekno’s reputation as a rising star in the Afrobeats genre.
Subsequent releases, including “Diana,” “Yawa,” and “Jogodo,” further cemented Tekno’s status as a hitmaker. His distinctive sound was a seamless fusion of Afrobeats, R&B, and dancehall influences that captivated audiences and earned him a loyal fan base.
One of Tekno’s greatest strengths lies in his versatility as an artist. He’s equally adept at producing club bangers and soulful ballads, showcasing his range and adaptability. His collaborations with international artists, such as Drake, Ciara, and Swae Lee, have further elevated his profile on the global stage, bridging the gap between Afrobeats and mainstream music audiences.
Collaborations
The Afro-pop singer collaborated with DJ Cuppy on her song Green Light on October 13, 2017. He again collaborated with American singer, Ciara for a song titled Freak Me on August 10, 2018. Tekno featured on Beyonce’s album, The Lion King: The Gift soundtrack for the song “Don’t Jealous Me” in July 2019. That’s not all as the singer also has quite several influences on his Nigerian counterparts.
In 2022, he also featured on Kizz Daniel’s song Buga a song that became widely played in the country and beyond. Nigerian singer Davido also revealed that Tekno had been a great inspiration and assistance in helping his musical career at some point in his life.
Tekno’s Songs and Albums
Tekno is a prominent figure in the Nigerian music scene, particularly known for his captivating Afrobeat tunes. Since his debut, he has consistently delivered hits that have not only dominated the charts in Nigeria but also gained international acclaim.
Old Romance (2020)
Tekno’s debut studio album was a testament to his versatility as an artist. The album featured tracks like “Enjoy,” “Designer,” and “Sku Sku,” each showcasing his unique blend of Afrobeat, R&B, and pop influences. The album received positive reviews and solidified Tekno’s status in the industry.
Pana (2016)
This song became a massive hit, not just in Nigeria but across Africa and beyond. Its infectious beat and catchy lyrics made it a favorite in clubs and radio stations globally.
Duro (2015)
Another chart-topper, “Duro,” showcased Tekno’s ability to craft love songs that resonate with the audience. The track’s success further propelled his career to new heights.
Jogodo (2018)
Drawing inspiration from the legendary Fela Kuti’s “Kpolongo,” “Jogodo” was an instant hit, blending traditional Afrobeat rhythms with Tekno’s modern touch.
Skeletun (2019)
This track highlighted Tekno’s ability to create dance-worthy tunes with captivating visuals. The song’s success further solidified his position as a leading figure in Afrobeat.
Throughout his career, Tekno has collaborated with several notable artists, both within Nigeria and internationally. His collaborations with artists like Drake, Davido, and Wizkid have further expanded his reach and solidified his presence in the global music scene.
Tekno: A Journey of Awards and Nominations
Tekno, the Nigerian singer, songwriter, and record producer, has carved a formidable path in the music industry, leaving his mark with catchy tunes, vibrant music videos, and a distinct sound. This success is reflected in his impressive collection of awards and nominations, showcasing his talent and impact on the global music scene.
Awards
The Headies (Nigeria)
- 2013 – Lyricist of the Year
- 2014 – Best Pop Single (“Holiday”)
- 2014 – Song of the Year (“Holiday”)
- 2016 – Best Male Vocal Performer
- 2017 – Best Afropop Single (“Diana”)
- 2018 – Best Recording of the Year (“Yawa”)
- 2019 – Best Pop Album (“Old Romance”)
MTV Africa Music Awards
- 2014 – Best New Male Artist
- 2016 – Best Male Artist
Nominations
Nigerian Entertainment Awards (NEA)
- 2013 – Album of the Year (“Love & Light”)
- 2013 – Artist of the Year
- 2014 – Hottest Single of the Year (“Holiday”)
- 2014 – Male Artiste of the Year
- 2017 – Best Collaboration of the Year (“Samantha” feat. Flavour)
City People Entertainment Awards
- 2014 – Most Popular Song of the Year (“Holiday”)
- 2014 – Best New Male Artiste of the Year
- 2017 – Best Afrobeat Male Artiste of the Year
BET Awards
- 2017 – Best International Act: Africa (Nominee)
Global Music Awards
- 2016 – Best Male African Artiste of the Year (Nominee)
Soundcity MVP Awards
- 2016 – Song of the Year (“Diana”) (Nominee)
- 2017 – Best Male Video (“Go”) (Nominee)
International Recognition
Tekno’s song “Enjoy” was featured in the closing episode of the Emmy-winning TV series “Ted Lasso” (Season Three, Episode Seven). He has collaborated with various international artists, including Rihanna, Wale, Lil Wayne, and Davido. His music videos have garnered millions of views on YouTube, solidifying his global appeal.
Tekno’s contribution to music transcends awards and nominations. He has redefined the Afropop genre with his unique blend of electronic and dance influences, pioneering a fresh sound that has captivated audiences worldwide. His energetic performances, captivating lyrics, and undeniable stage presence have cemented his place as a rising star in the global music scene.
Tekno’s Influence in the Nigerian Music Scene
Tekno, the enigmatic singer, songwriter, and producer, has become an undeniable force in shaping the landscape of Nigerian music. His infectious grooves, charismatic stage presence, and penchant for genre-bending experimentation have positioned him as a pioneer, leaving an indelible mark on the scene.
Here’s how Tekno’s influence ripples through the Nigerian music scene:
Tekno didn’t just ride the Afropop wave; he helped reshape it. He injected infectious electronic and dance elements, crafting vibrant soundscapes that transcended geographical boundaries. Tracks like “Holiday” and “Go” remain anthems, inspiring a generation of artists to explore genre-bending fusions.
Tekno’s lyrics are playful yet impactful. He weaves wit and social commentary into catchy verses, tackling themes like love, self-belief, and societal issues with a relatable charm. His ability to make listeners laugh and think simultaneously sets him apart.
Music Video Storytelling
Tekno’s music videos are visual feasts. Blending vibrant colors, stunning choreography, and creative narratives, they enhance his musical story and amplify his artistic vision. Videos like “Diana” and “Samantha” showcase his commitment to cinematic presentation, influencing other artists to elevate their visual language. He writes, produces, and often directs his music, setting a powerful example for aspiring artists. He champions creative control and inspires others to pursue their artistic vision without compromise. Tekno’s infectious energy and genre-bending sound have crossed borders. His collaborations with international artists like Rihanna and Wale demonstrate his global reach, paving the way for other Nigerian artists to gain international recognition.
Tekno’s influence goes beyond mere awards and charts; it’s about shaking up the status quo and pushing boundaries. He has shown that Nigerian music can be innovative, playful, and globally appealing, inspiring a generation of artists to embrace their individuality and craft music that resonates on a global scale.
Entrepreneurial Ventures and Philanthropy
Beyond his musical endeavors, Tekno has ventured into entrepreneurship, establishing his record label, Cartel Music, and pursuing various business interests. He’s also actively involved in philanthropic initiatives, using his platform to advocate for social causes and uplift underserved communities in Nigeria.
Tekno’s impact on the Nigerian music industry is undeniable. His innovative approach to music production, combined with his charismatic stage presence and undeniable talent, has positioned him as a trailblazer in the Afrobeats landscape. As he continues to evolve as an artist and expand his global footprint, Tekno’s legacy is destined to inspire future generations of musicians and music enthusiasts alike.
Personal life
Although Tekno is not a married man, he and his partner, Lola Rae who is also a Nigerian musician welcomed a baby girl in May 2018. The singer is currently based in the United States after announcing to his fans in 2020 that he was moving for good. Also in 2017, Alhaji Tekno as he is fondly referred to announced that he was suffering from an acid reflux ailment. This affected his vocal cords and he had to go on a singing hiatus for a long time. He also had surgery to rectify the issue with his vocal cords and acid reflux ailment.
Who is Tekno’s partner Lola Rae?
Lola Rae, whose full name is Lola Aduke Fawehinmi, is a Nigerian singer, songwriter, and dancer. She rose to fame after releasing her debut track “Watch My Ting Go” in 2013, which earned her a nomination for the Most Promising Female Act to Watch at The Headies Awards. While Lola Rae is a successful artist in her own right, she’s often recognized as Tekno’s partner. They started dating in 2017: Rumors of their romance sparked after they collaborated on the song “Go”. This was confirmed by Tekno in July 2017. The couple welcomed a daughter in May 2018 named Skye Yaa Amaka Kelechi.
Like any couple in the spotlight, their relationship has been subject to rumors and speculation, including break-up speculations in 2022. However, both have publicly denied these rumors and clarified their love and commitment to each other. Both Tekno and Lola Rae continue pursuing their music careers while sharing support for each other’s projects. They attend events together, celebrate each other’s successes, and often feature each other’s work on their social media platforms.
Tekno’s journey from a young, aspiring artist to a global music icon is a testament to his unwavering dedication, boundless creativity, and pioneering spirit. With a string of hits under his belt and a burgeoning international career, Tekno’s star continues to rise, solidifying his place as one of Nigeria’s most influential and celebrated musicians.
As he continues to push boundaries and redefine the Afrobeats genre, the world eagerly anticipates what the future holds for this musical prodigy. Tekno continues to evolve and explore new musical avenues, one thing is clear: Tekno’s influence on Nigerian music and Afrobeat at large is undeniable.
Things you should know about Tekno, a Nigerian artiste
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Written by Sarah Aboje
