Kwate

Last updated

David Cross Idukomose
Birth nameDavid Cross Idukomose
Born (1982-08-02) 2 August 1982 (age 42)
Lagos State, Nigeria
OriginEdo State, Nigeria
GenresAfrobeats, Hip-hop
Occupation(s)Singer, songwriter, IT professional, entrepreneur
Years active2007–present

David Cross Idukomose (born 2 August 1982), known professionally as Kwate, is a Nigerian hip-hop artist and Afrobeats musician. He is recognized for his singles and musical style, which blends traditional and modern elements. Kwate emphasizes consistency, innovation, and cultural resonance in his music. [1]

Contents

Early life and education

David Cross Idukomose was born on 2 August 1982, in Lagos State, Nigeria. He spent his early years in Ilorin, Kwara State, and Benin City. [2] He attended Oko Erin Primary School, Immaculate Conception College, Ekiadolor College of Education, and the University of Benin where he studied computer science. [2] Despite his academic pursuits, music remained his primary interest. Inspired by The Remedies and Plantashun Boiz shows in 2003 and 2004, respectively, he decided to pursue music as a career. [2]

Kwate was exposed to various musical genres, from traditional Nigerian sounds to international influences. His parents encouraged his early interest in music. [2] He developed his vocal skills in church choirs and local talent shows. [2]

Career

Kwate's musical journey began in Edo State, and continued after relocating to Lagos, in 1998. [1] His career gained momentum in 2010 with the release of "Party Dey Here," featuring Side One, which received significant airplay across Nigeria. [1] He followed this with "Baby Give Me More," featuring Jaywon in 2011. [1]

In the second half of the 2010s, Kwate released several tracks, including "I Don’t Know," "Love," "OvbokhanMven," "Halla," and "Enjoy Yourself." [3] His single "On Ground," featuring Black IQ, achieved commercial success on digital platforms. [4]

Kwate received nominations for the Mnet Asian Music Awards (MAMA) and African Entertainment Awards Malaysia in 2010/2011. [2] He has performed in over 100 countries, including in Moscow, India, and Botswana, and was the first Nigerian artist to perform at the "Longest Dinner Table in the World." [2]

Musical style and influences

Kwate's music blends traditional Nigerian sounds with contemporary influences, addressing social issues, love, and self-empowerment. [5] His role models include Fela Kuti, Victor Uwaifo, Felix Lebarty, King Sunny Ade, 2Face Idibia, Eedris Abdulkareem, 50 Cent and Beenie Man. [6]

Kwate has collaborated with producers like Sheyman, O’ Black, Fliptyce Beats, Spanky, and Terry G. [1] His music has been featured on playlists such as Spotify's Afrobeat Classics and Apple Music's African A-List. [2]

Personal life

Kwate balances his music career with other activities. [6] He owns a healthcare business and a coffee company. [5]

Discography

Selected singles

Awards and nominations

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References

  1. 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 Telegraph-Admin, New (24 May 2024). "With On Ground, Kwate, Climbing Successful Ladder". New Telegraph - Sanctity of Truth. Retrieved 2 October 2024.
  2. 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 Okanlawon, Taiwo (1 January 2024). "The Afrobeats Maestro: King Kwate's Rise to Stardom". P.M. News. Retrieved 2 October 2024.
  3. Adetoye, Seye (3 October 2021). "Kwate Makes Mark With String of Singles". The NEWS. Retrieved 2 October 2024.
  4. 1 2 Online, Tribune (27 September 2024). "Kwate shows mastery with new single 'On Ground'". Tribune Online. Retrieved 2 October 2024.
  5. 1 2 Azeez, Kareem (24 June 2020). "Cross Idukomose David: Melding Tradition and Modernity in Afrobeats". Guardian Nigeria. Retrieved 2 October 2024.
  6. 1 2 Emmanson, Jerry (29 February 2020). "Kwate's Musical Prowess Over The Years". Leadership News. Retrieved 2 October 2024.