HUMAN
Mike Okri

Mike Okri

reggae, mbaqanga

Trending in Mike Okri’s World

Story

Quick Facts

From
Nigeria

Journey

Michael Okri, better known as Mike Okri, is a Nigerian singer, songwriter, and producer who rose to prominence during the country’s pop boom of the 1980s. His music drew from African rhythms, Western pop and poetic songwriting, eventually forming the style he calls “Afro-Mystic-Soul.” Before beginning his solo career, Okri worked as a backing singer for established Nigerian performers including Sonny Okosun, King Sunny Ade and Onyeka Onwenu. His career took a major turn when he signed with CBS Records Nigeria, becoming the label’s first Nigerian signing. His 1988 debut album, “Concert Fever,” brought him national attention, with songs such as “Omoge” and “Time Na Money” becoming closely associated with his early career. Okri followed the success of his debut with “Rhumba Dance” in 1990, an award-winning project released through Benson & Hedges Music. He later recorded “Cracks” in 1992, continuing his exploration of African rhythms, pop arrangements and socially minded songwriting. His activities have extended beyond performing and recording. Okri has participated in music administration and copyright advocacy and has held leadership responsibilities within the Performing Musicians Association of Nigeria. He also studied Broadcast Journalism at the Television College in Jos. After relocating to the United States, Okri continued developing his music and released further material, including “Rhythmysticals” and his self-titled 2021 EP. His work has earned recognition from the Nigerian Music Awards, Fame Music Awards and Pan-African Music Awards in Ghana. Across several decades, Mike Okri has maintained a musical identity built around African influences, reflective writing, and his “Afro-Mystic-Soul” concept, while remaining connected to the Nigerian music tradition that shaped his early career.

Connected by Groove

Now Playing