Onyeabor’s Contemporary Voice Influenced by Timeless Heritage
Charles Onyeabor, the son of the accomplished electro-funk artist William Onyeabor, hails from Enugu, Nigeria. His upbringing, surrounded by his father’s music, instilled in him a profound appreciation for the craft. Although Charles pursued a degree in Civil Engineering at Enugu State University of Science and Technology, his love for music never wavered.
In 2003, Charles made the decision to move to Italy, where he immersed himself in the culture and established a successful car dealership business. Despite his accomplishments in the business world, his heart remained tied to music, compelling him to embark on his musical journey. It wasn’t until the onset of the COVID-19 lockdown in Italy in 2020 that Charles’s musical career truly took flight. He debuted with his single, “They Can’t Pull Us Down,” featuring Miriam Taylor, exploring Afrobeat and funk genres.
Following this initial success, Charles released additional tracks like “Do It Your Way” with Enrico Matheis and “Bye Bye To My Ex Love,” showcasing his versatility and emotional depth. In November 2023, he paid homage to his father’s legacy by dropping his album, Like Father, Like Son. This album, which includes 18 tracks and two bonus songs, features collaborations with artists like Magneto, Evry, and Miriam Taylor. It skillfully weaves together Afrobeat, R&B, and country influences in English, Pidgin, Italian, and Igbo, reflecting Charles’s multicultural background.
Using his music as a medium to address social issues, Charles released “Black or White,” featuring Luna, in March 2024. This track promotes global unity and challenges racial discrimination. Charles expressed that his life experiences and aspiration for worldwide harmony inspired the creation of this song. In August 2024, he released “The Future of Africa,” a reggae anthem advocating for African unity and economic independence.
Embracing growth as an artist, Charles unveiled his sophomore album, Onyekachi, in September 2024. This 10-track album marries trap, funk, and Afrobeat genres, delving into themes of identity and resilience. Tracks like “I’m Human” and “Fine Girl” spotlight his ability to explore profound subjects through music.
Charles has graced the stage at numerous international events, including the Afrobeat Invasion in Germany, the 36th Sanremo Rock Festival in Italy, the Kwaku Festival in Amsterdam, and as an opener for Ruger’s concert in Bologna. His compelling work has received recognition from various media outlets like GQ South Africa, The Guardian Nigeria, Pulse Ghana, Vanguard, Punch, and Notjustok. Charles Onyeabor’s profound and diverse musical journey resonates deeply with audiences worldwide.