Chigozie Okeke popularly known as Ojazzy Igbonile is a young talented flutist hailing from Anambra State, Nigeria. Known for his exceptional skills in playing the Igbo people's traditional flute, called Oja, Ojazzy has made a name for himself in the music industry.

Ojazzy Igbonile

Background

Born and raised in Anambra State, Ojazzy Igbonile developed a deep passion for music at an early age. He was drawn to the enchanting melodies produced by the Oja flute, and he dedicated himself to mastering its intricacies.

 Career Highlights

The viral track, blending Nigerian Igbo vibes with South African Amapiano, has taken social media by storm. Adding traditional flavour, the Oja flute enriches Igbo music with its enchanting melodies. Kingsley Chinweike Okonkwo, the renowned Nigerian artist popularly known by his stage name Kcee discovered the talented flute player, and their journey to fame began.

Ojazzy's musical journey took off when he showcased his remarkable talent as a flutist. His performances quickly gained attention, and he began to receive recognition for his skills. His dedication and commitment to his craft have earned him a reputation as a professional flutist.

Notable Achievement

One of Ojazzy Igbonile's notable achievements was his collaboration with Nigerian music artist Kcee on the track "Ojapiano." In this song, Ojazzy showcased his exceptional flute-playing skills, providing a traditional and captivating element to the music. The track was produced by Jay Synths.

Musical Style

Ojazzy's musical style revolves around traditional Igbo music, specifically the Oja flute. He skillfully combines traditional melodies with contemporary elements, creating a unique and captivating sound. His influences include renowned flutists and traditional Igbo musicians who have inspired his musical journey.

Success Story

During an interview with BBC Igbo, Ojazzy Igbonile revealed how he developed a deep love and started playing the Oja flute. He shared his story, stating:

"At the tender age of 10, I began playing the Oja flute after encountering a stranger who gifted me the instrument in a dream. When I woke up, I excitedly shared this experience with my mother. During the Christmas season, my parents gave me money to go buy foodstuff from the Ochanja market in Onitsha. As I was passing by a shop, I spotted the exact Oja flute I had seen in my dream. Without hesitation, I hurriedly bought it. Upon arriving home, I showed my mother, who asked if I knew how to play it. "No," I replied. She took the flute and played a few notes, which captivated me. I immediately took it back from her, loving the sound it was producing. From that moment on, I dedicate myself to practicing and playing the Oja flute. Even as a young boy serving as a mass server in a local Catholic church, I would play the flute there. However, the church and its members had differing opinions about a young boy like me playing the Oja flute, which led me to leave and join an Ogene music group and started following them to events and occasions.

It was through this group that I had the opportunity to meet Badman Kcee Limpopo, thanks to Arobunago Nwa Nri-Igwe Credo. I met him during an event where the Ogene group and I were performing. Nri-Igwe Credo convinced me to join his crew and I gladly accepted. From then on, he took me to various events and occasions where he was called to perform. This continued until Nollywood actor, Junior Pope contacted Arobunago Nwa Nri-Igwe Credo, inquiring if he knew anyone skilled in playing the Oja flute, as Kcee needed such talent. Arobunago informed him about the young boy(me) who could play the Oja flute exceptionally well. Thus, Junior Pope provided Kcee's contact details, and Nri-Igwe Credo took me with him and we traveled to Lagos, where Kcee resides. When we arrived at Kcee's house, I played the Oja flute for him, Kcee loved it. He was impressed and promised to showcase my talent to the world. As a token of this promise, Kcee granted me a collaboration in his upcoming song titled 'Ojapiano,'" Ojazzy recounted with a bright smile.

The talented young boy further shared how some individuals nearly discouraged him, claiming that Oja players were always poor and broke. Instead of being discouraged by their discouragement, he assured himself that he would defy these notions and showcase his talent to the world, highlighting the power of grace.

Concluding the interview, Ojazzy expressed his gratitude to God Almighty for the grace and opportunities bestowed upon him. He also encouraged fellow young individuals with talent to remain steadfast in their pursuits, disregarding the critics and focusing on their passions and aspirations.

 Discography

- "Ojapiano" (feat. Kcee) - 2023

Conclusion

Ojazzy Igbonile is a rising star in the music industry, known for his exceptional flute-playing skills. With his ability to masterfully play the traditional Oja flute, he has distinguished himself as a professional flutist. Collaborating with Kcee on "Ojapiano," he has showcased his talent to a wider audience and continues to make a significant impact in the music scene.