Bright Chimezie

Bright Chimezie (born 1 October 1960) is a Nigerian musician known for his influential music style called Zigima Sound. Hailing from Abia State, Nigeria, Chimezie rose to fame in the early 1980s with his unique blend of traditional Nigerian music, Igbo highlife, and chanted vocals. His music also addresses societal issues such as colonialism, economic exploitation, and cultural identity with a touch of humor in his lyrics.

Bright Chimezie has released several notable songs, including "Ube Nwanne," "Because of English," "Respect Africa," and "African Style." His contribution to the promotion of African culture and values earned him the title "The Duke of African Music." He is also known for his dance steps.

Early life
Bright Chimezie was born into the family of Reverend and Mrs. Ezekiel Iromuoh of Ekeoba village, Umuahia, the capital city of Abia State, southeastern Nigeria on October 1, 1960. Bright Chimezie's musical journey began at the age of 7, when he joined his clan's cultural group, later becoming its leader. As a youngster, Bright Chimezie was deeply involved in the Methodist Church Ekeoba Choir, where he sang the alto part and participated in several performances and recordings.

After completing his primary education at Umuhu Central School, Umuahia, despite the challenges posed by the Civil War, Bright Chimezie continued his education at Ohuhu Community Secondary School in Amaogwugwu, Umuahia. During his time there, he led the school band and collaborated with other popular Eastern groups between 1974 and 1979. He also made his first television appearance in 1976 on an NTA show.

After completing secondary school in 1976, Chimezie joined the Modernized Odumodu Cultural Dance Group, which specialized in storytelling through music. The group gained popularity across eastern Nigeria until its disbandment in 1979.

In Lagos State, Chimezie joined the Nigerian Customs and Excise Dance Band, touring the country. In 1984, he departed from the Nigerian Customs and Excise Band to form "Ziggima," a music group that blended traditionally rooted African music with Igbo traditional musical elements and captivating dance steps. The name Ziggima derives from the Igbo expression "o zi gi ma," meaning "the message that you already know."

Career
In 1984, Bright Chimezie, also known as Okoro Junior, introduced his Ziggima Movement to the music scene with their debut album, "Respect Africa." The album featured hit songs such as "Respect Africa," "Message Boy," "Liza," "Where is Love," and "Nnem Oma." He continued with another album in 1985 titled "Life of Yesterday." Throughout his career, Chimezie has released a total of eight albums.

Stage performances
He has performed in locations such as London, Austria, Brazil, and various other countries. Notably, Bright Chimezie represented Nigeria at the OPEC Cultural Festival held in Caracas, Venezuela, where he showcased the music and culture of his homeland. He performed for Nelson Mandela during the latter's visit to Nigeria upon his release from prison in 1992.

Awards and recognitions
He has picked up awards from institutions such as the University of Nigeria, Nsukka, and the Nigerian Union of Journalists, Tribune Chapter, in recognition of his musical achievements. Notably, he was bestowed with the title "Duke of African Music" by the royal father, Oba Omowonuola Oyeyede Oyeyonsin II, from Oyo State, southwestern Nigeria.

Filmography
In addition to his musical endeavors, Bright Chimezie has made appearances in several Nigerian movies, including "Deadly Proposal," "Abuja Boys," and others.

Family
Bright Chimezie is married to Chinyere Chimezie, and together they have five children, namely, Kelechi, Chukwuemeka, Chukwudi, Chinemeze (Micheal), and Chidinma.