Bright Chimezie, a Nigerian musician who gained prominence in the early 1980s, is celebrated for his distinctive musical style called Zigima Sound.
FACTS ABOUT BRIGHT CHIMEZIE
- FULL NAME: Bright Chimezie
- DATE OF BIRTH: October 1, 1960
- PLACE OF BIRTH: Umuahia, Abia State, Nigeria
- STATE OF ORIGIN: Abia, Nigeria
- NATIONALITY: Nigerian
- SPOUSE: Chinyere Chimezie
- OCCUPATIONs: Singer, Songwriter, Performer
- LABELS: Keys Recordings
EARLY LIFE AND EDUCATION
Originating from Abia State, Nigeria, Chimezie blends traditional Nigerian music, Igbo highlife, and chanted vocals in his compositions.
His songs tackle significant societal issues such as colonialism, economic exploitation, and cultural identity, all while incorporating humor into his lyrics.
Born in 1960 in Umuahia, Abia State, into a family of clergy, Bright Chimezie began his musical journey at the age of seven with his clan’s cultural group, eventually taking on a leadership role.
Despite the challenges posed by the Civil War, he continued his education at Ohuhu Community Secondary School in Amaogwugwu, Umuahia, where he honed his musical skills and made his television debut in 1976.
After finishing school, Chimezie joined the Modernized Odumodu Cultural Dance Group, where he immersed himself in storytelling through music.
CAREER
Later, in Lagos, he became a member of the Nigerian Customs and Excise Dance Band before founding his own group, Ziggima, in 1984.
This group combines elements of African music and Igbo traditions with lively dance performances.
The name Ziggima comes from the Igbo phrase “o zi gi ma,” which means “the message that you already know.”
In 1984, Bright Chimezie, also known as Okoro Junior, made a significant impact on the music scene with the launch of the Ziggima Movement and the release of their debut album, “Respect Africa.”
Songs such as “Respect Africa,” “Message Boy,” “Liza,” “Where is Love,” and “Nnem Oma” quickly gained popularity, enchanting listeners with their vibrant melodies.
As he continued his musical journey, Chimezie released “Life of Yesterday” in 1985, further enriching his legacy, which now includes eight albums.
Throughout his career, he has represented Nigerian music at the OPEC Cultural Festival in Caracas, Venezuela, showcasing the rich musical heritage of his homeland.
A notable highlight of his career was performing for the esteemed Nelson Mandela during the leader’s visit to Nigeria following his release from prison in 1992.
Bright Chimezie’s collection includes timeless songs like “Ube Nwanne,” “Because of English,” “Respect Africa,” and “African Style,” each reflecting African culture and values.
His dedication to promoting his heritage earned him the title “The Duke of African Music,” and his energetic dance moves have become as iconic as his songs.
In addition to his music career, Bright Chimezie has acted in several Nigerian films, including “Deadly Proposal” and “Abuja Boys.”
He has received accolades from esteemed institutions such as the University of Nigeria, Nsukka, and the Nigerian Union of Journalists, Tribune Chapter, and he has been honored with the title “Duke of African Music” by Oba Omowonuola Oyeyede Oyeyonsin II, a respected royal personality from Oyo State in southwestern Nigeria.
PERSONAL LIFE
Bright Chimezie and Chinyere Chimezie share their lives together as they raise their five children: Kelechi, Chukwuemeka, Chukwudi, Chinemeze (Michael), and Chidinma.