Chinedu Okoli, better known by his stage name Flavour N'abania or simply Flavour, is a Nigerian singer, songwriter and multi-instrumentalist. He began his musical career as a drummer for a local church. Flavour is popularly known across Africa and the world for his hit song "Nwa Baby ". He is currently signed to 2nite Entertainment. In 2005, he released his self-titleddebut albumN'abania. In 2010, Flavour released his second studio albumUplifted. It was supported by the singles "Nwa Baby ", "Adamma", and "Oyi Remix". The album's success made Flavour one of Africa's most sought out artists. Flavour was booked to perform at numerous concerts and social events following Uplifted's release.
Early life
Flavour, who is well known for his ability to sing fluently in the Igbo language, was born in Enugu State, Nigeria. His family is originally from Umunze in Orumba South LGA, Anambra State, Nigeria. Flavour began his music career at the age of 13 when he started playing the drums for his church choir in Enugu. The resident pastor at his church introduced him to a friend, Chris I. Ordor, the CEO of SoundCity Communications. In 1996, Flavour was invited to join the company on an educational scholarship to study music. After three years of playing the drums, Flavour started playing the drums professionally. In 1999, Flavour moved on from playing the drums and started playing the keyboard. He also used to provide backing vocals for other musicians at SoundCity.
Music career
Career beginnings
At the age of 19, Flavour emerged unto Nigeria's musical scene as a drummer and pianist for a local Enugu band. After learning to play drums professionally, Flavour received an offer to perform at City Centre, Enugu. The massive crowd at City Centre inspired him to gain new grounds and reach great heights. Flavour's educational background in music enabled him to learn music production from Dekumzy, Isi Charles and Nnachie.
2005: ''N'abania''
In 2005, Flavour released his debut album N'abania through Obaino Music. The album's success was relative and limited to Eastern Nigeria, particularly Enugu State. Flavour collaborated with Mr Raw on the album's lead single titled "N'abania". The song was recorded at Kingsley Ogoro's music studio in Lagos, Nigeria.
2010: ''Uplifted''
Following the relative success of his debut album, Flavour released Uplifted in 2010. While working on the album, Flavour believed the album would surpass his previous works. Flavour's projection came true when the album broke national barriers. Lolhiphop Records, an established record label in South Africa, released the album after popular demand. The album's top singles include "Nwa Baby ", "Adamma", and "Oyi Remix" featuring Tiwa Savage.
2012: ''Blessed''
Blessed was released on 18 October 2012 through 2nite Entertainment and iROCKING LTD. The album is the successor to Uplifted. It is arguably Flavour's biggest album to date due to the number of producers that worked on it. It was launched on the same day of Flavour's 2nite Club grand opening. In an interview with iROKTV, Flavour said: "I think I'm growing. This is my third album... Now it's time to give them the music, like define myself. 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."
''2014: Thankful''
Thankful was released in December 2014. The album consists of 22 tracks and runs for one hour seventeen minutes. Receiving generally positive reviews from critics, Thankful sold thousands of copies and features hit tracks such as the love ballad "Ololufe" featuring Chidinma and the fast-tempo Afro-Pop song "Wake Up" feat. Wande Coal.
2017: ''Ijele – The Traveler''
Ijele The Traveller is the latest album released in 2017. It contains 17 tracks – including a track featuring a blind Liberian fan.
In 2018
In 2018 he issued two singles, "Crazy love" joining force with mama. Africa Yemi Alade as Flavour Nabania and "Yemi Alade" Later that year, He came up with another traditional song "Awele" Featuring the igbo traditional duo Umu Obiligbo
Controversy
On 29 August 2012, Nigerian Entertainment Today reported that Flavour N'abania was involved in a legal battle with Ghanaian duo Wutah, over the alleged theft of "Kwarikwa". According to the article, "Kwarikwa" is an exact replica of Kotosa, a song made by the aforementioned duo. The singing duo accused Flavour N'abania of stealing their song's rhythm, chorus, and tempo.
