Patoranking Opens Up About His Early Days Hawking on Lagos Streets with His Father
Written by MAX FM on July 11, 2024
Patoranking, born Patrick Nnaemeka Okorie on May 27, 1990, is a Nigerian reggae-dancehall artist and Afrobeats singer-songwriter.
Raised in Lagos’ Ebute Metta, he shared a small room with his parents and five siblings, which fueled his determination to succeed in music.
Early in his career, he collaborated underground with artists like XProject, Konga, Slam, and Reggie Rockstone.
Recently, at an event where he received the UNDP Goodwill Africa Ambassador for Youth Innovation, Enterprise, and the SDGs award, Patoranking reflected on his challenging journey.
He recalled selling goods on Lagos streets with his father to support his family. Growing up in Ebute Metta posed significant challenges, but he remained steadfast in pursuing his dreams, eventually finding success in the music industry.
Speaking at the launch of the Timbuktoo Fintech Hub in Lagos, an initiative by the UNDP promoting technology and entrepreneurship in Africa, Patoranking shared personal anecdotes.
He reminisced, “I used to hawk on the streets of Lagos with my father. This street [Kings Way Road] was a bustling trading spot many years ago.
” He expressed emotional gratitude on his journey, saying, “Years later, I’ve become the man I envisioned. Driving down this road brought tears to my eyes.”
