Yatome: Re-introducing African Culture 

Ferdinand Ekechukwu

The vibrant tapestry of African music has long been woven with a powerful blend of tenacity, cultural richness, and bold defiance. From the ancestral rhythms that shaped its earliest incarnations to the fearless innovations of modern icons, music has served as the lifeblood of the continent, a catalyst for change, and a powerful tool for those daring enough to carve their own paths.

Just like Fela Kuti, Yatome is re-introducing African culture to the world through modern streaming services. At the forefront of this pantheon of African music’s trailblazers are two legendary figures: Fela Kuti, whose Afrobeat rhythms and defiant political activism changed the course of African music and left a lasting imprint on the global stage; and Angélique Kidjo, whose boundary-pushing sound, electric live performances, and undeniable star power have cemented his status as one of the most influential figures in modern Afrobeats.

Inspired by both music pioneers, Yatome started his career with a debut single titled “Introduction Message” alongside a music video to introduce African culture to the United Nations. Later on, he released his debut EP (Extended Play) “African’s Message To The World” consisting of 4 songs.

Yatome, real name Chibuike Eke, hails from Enugu State. Born and bred in Igbo-Eze North, in the 1970s, Yatome’s unique music style is a mixture of Afrobeat and Afrikaans with a traditional themed background. His mother encouraged him to begin his musical career by using his songs to convey messages and realistically depict African culture.