Steven Umoh, better known by his stage name Obongjayar, is a Nigerian singer based in London, England.
11 Facts About Obongjayar
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Obongjayar was raised by his grandmother; his mother had moved to the UK to escape Umoh's father, who was abusive.
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Obongjayar grew up a devoutly religious Christian, but became less so after he attended university in Norwich.
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Obongjayar's work caught the notice of XL Recordings executive Richard Russell, who then asked Obongjayar to contribute to his Everything Is Recorded project.
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Obongjayar followed Home with a second EP, Bassey, which was noted for its sparse production and afrobeat rhythms, as well as its themes of spirituality, politics, and his experiences as a Black person.
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Obongjayar contributed to Richard Russell's 2017 EP, Close But Not Quite.
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In collaboration with afrobeat producer Sarz, Obongjayar released a third EP, Sweetness, in 2021.
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Obongjayar featured on rapper Little Simz's studio album Sometimes I Might Be Introvert on the fourth single "Point and Kill", which was later accompanied by a music video.
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Obongjayar released the song and music video "Message in a Hammer", the lead single for his debut album.
10.
In 2023, Obongjayar collaborated with Fred Again on the single "Adore U".
11.
Obongjayar's lyrics incorporate spiritual overtones, although they are not readily identifiable with any specific religious tradition.