Emeka Akumefule, professionally recognized as Blaqbonez, is a Nigerian rapper and vocalist under the Chocolate City label.
Early life and Education
Emeka, born on January 29, 1996, into an Igbo family, was raised in Nigeria, where he was immersed in both Yoruba and Urhobo cultures. Hailing from Imo state, a region dominated by the Igbo tribe, he was brought up by his mother, who was a pastor, in a blended Yoruba and Urhobo environment. He pursued his tertiary education in Computer Engineering at Obafemi Awolowo University (OAU).
Career
In 2018, Blaqbonez dropped his eighth EP, “Bad Boy Blaq,” as part of the L.A.M.B project, which aimed to revive Nigerian hip hop. Executive produced by M.I Abaga and released through 100 Crowns, a Chocolate City label imprint, it concluded a series of three releases, following M.I Abaga’s “A Study on Self Worth: Yxng Dxnzl.” In 2019, he released his ninth EP, “Mr. Boombastic,” alongside a promotional single aimed at Kanye West. The EP’s reissue, “Bad Boy Blaq Re-Up,” followed in February 2019. Moving forward, he continued his musical journey with singles like “Haba” in 2020 and the album “Sex Over Love” in 2021, featuring collaborations with various artists. His discography expanded further with the release of studio albums such as “Young Preacher” in 2022 and “Emeka Must Shine” in 2023, showcasing his evolution as an artist. Additionally, his prowess in rap was recognized at the 16th Headies Award Show in 2023, where he clinched the “Best Rap Album of the Year” award for “Like Ice Spice.”
Personal life
At the age of 13, Emeka stumbled upon his rap talent while listening to the radio with his cousin. Encouraged by his cousin’s challenge, he swiftly crafted his own verse, igniting his journey into music. Despite his parents’ initial disapproval, he clandestinely pursued his passion, dropping his first project, “Hip-Hop in Blaq,” while still in school. His early years saw him participating in rap battles and competitions, culminating in notable victories like Terry Tha Rapman’s Zombie Competition in 2012. Over the years, he continued to hone his craft, gaining recognition and accolades, including being named West African Rapper Of The Year at the Creative-Africa Hip Hop Awards. His bold proclamation as “Best Rapper in Africa” was a response to a diss track, demonstrating his desire to challenge and invigorate the Nigerian rap scene. With his undeniable talent and determination, Blaqbonez has been heralded as a torchbearer of Nigerian rap, earning him a spot as one of the “Top 10 Artists to watch in 2019” and a prominent position in The Guardian’s list of the “Top 50 African Rappers Of 2021.”
Net Worth
Estimated to be over 200,000 dollars