Ckay – Who the Fuck Is CKay?
| Stage Name: | Ckay |
| Real Name: | Chukwuka Chukwuma Ekweani |
| Occupation: | Musician |
| Date Of Birth/Age: | 16th July, 1995 (29 years old) |
| State of Origin: | Anambra State |
| Gender: | Male |
| Nationality: | Nigerian |
| Marital Status: | Not Married |
| Education: | – |
| Known for: | Who the Fuck Is CKay? |
Chukwuka Chukwuma Ekweani, popularly known as Ckay, was born on 16 July 1995, in Kaduna, Nigeria. He is a talented singer-songwriter and record producer making waves in the music industry. With a blend of Afro-pop and emotional lyricism, Ckay has gained international recognition, signing with Warner Music South Africa and Atlantic Records.
Early Life
Chukwuka Ekweani’s musical journey began in Kaduna, where he was born and raised in a family of Igbo descent from Anambra State. His father, a choir conductor in their local church, ignited his passion for music. At a young age, Ckay showed a keen interest in musical instruments, particularly the piano, which he learned from his father. Introduced to the production software Fruity Loops by a friend, he started his musical career in a band before venturing into a solo career as CKay.
Career Beginnings
In 2014, Ckay moved to Lagos after being discovered, and his journey with Chocolate City began in 2015. He released a promotional single titled “Bad Musician Bad Producer” in 2016, gaining recognition and a nomination at the Nigerian Music Video Awards (TNMA). In 2017, he released his EP “Who the Fuck Is CKay?” showcasing his versatility and paving the way for his future success.
Rise to Stardom
His breakthrough came in 2018 with the release of “Container,” an Afrobeat hit that earned him significant airplay. His second EP, “CKay the First,” dropped in 2019 and featured the chart-topping track “Love Nwantiti.” The remix, released in 2020, went viral on TikTok and became an international sensation, earning him a spot on the US Billboard Hot 100. In 2021, he released “Emiliana,” achieving platinum status in France and solidifying his position in the global music scene.
Recent Success and Achievements
In 2022, Ckay continued his streak with the release of “Watawi,” featuring Davido, Focalistic, and Abidoza. The song peaked at number 13 on Nigeria’s TurnTable Top 50, contributing to Ckay’s milestone of reaching 1.4 billion streams, making him one of the most-streamed African artists. His music surpassed 100 million streams on Boomplay, earning him a golden club plaque. Ckay’s impact is not limited to Africa; he has reached audiences in over 120 countries.
Artistry and Musical Style
He proudly embraces his unique sound, self-dubbed as “Emo-afrobeats.” His music spans various genres, including Afrobeats, R&B, and dancehall. Unapologetically himself, Ckay aligns with the Alté movement, expressing individuality and freedom in his music and style. He defines Alté as being true to oneself, much like fellow artists Lady Donli and Odunsi. Ckay’s refusal to conform to societal pressures is evident in his carefree approach to music and life.
Discography
Ckay’s discography showcases his evolution as an artist, with notable extended plays such as “Who the Fuck Is CKay?” (2017), “CKay the First” (2019), and “Boyfriend” (2021). In 2022, he released his album “Sad Romance,” further establishing his musical prowess.
Accolades and Recognition
His talent has not gone unnoticed, with numerous award nominations and wins. Notable achievements include winning Best African Song at the Muzikol Music Awards for “Love Nwantiti” and receiving a Silver Creator Award from YouTube in 2021.
Tour
As of 2022, Ckay is on the Sad Romance Tour, captivating audiences worldwide. With a promising career ahead, he continues to break barriers, leaving an indelible mark on the global music stage.
Wife and Kids
He is single and currently unmarried.
Net Worth
Ckay’s success in live performances and record royalties has translated into a substantial fortune. With an estimated net worth ranging between US$2 million and US$5 million, Ckay stands as one of Africa’s leading artists, not only in talent but also in financial prowess. His ability to captivate audiences globally has been a significant contributor to his swift rise to success. You can find him on Instagram.