Meet Michael Odokara-Okigbo | Singer, Songwriter, Tech Entrepeneur

We had the good fortune of connecting with Michael Odokara-Okigbo and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Michael, why did you pursue a creative career?
Because creativity has always been the way I naturally express myself. Growing up, music and storytelling were how I made sense of my feelings, my culture, and my identity. I didn’t force it — it just became the most honest way for me to communicate and connect with people.

And honestly, that same creative drive is what led me to build NKENNE, currently the most downloaded African langauge learning app in market.

I realized creativity wasn’t just in the music — it was also in imagining new solutions, new products, new ways to bring people together. NKENNE came out of that same curiosity and desire to express who we are as Africans, and to make our languages and cultures more visible.

So art and tech are not separate for me. They’re two sides of the same thing: using creativity to build experiences that resonate with people and make them feel seen.

Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
I make music that reflects where I’m from and who I am — a mix of Afrobeats, R&B, and global influences. I’m inspired by travel, culture, language, and real life. I think what sets me apart is that I don’t try to fit a box — I let my experiences naturally shape my sound.

I’m proud that I’ve been able to build both music and NKENNE at the same time — and they actually feed each other. Creativity is what drives both sides of my life.

Getting here definitely wasn’t easy. There were a lot of moments where I questioned myself, or felt like I didn’t fit the “traditional” path in music or tech. But I had to learn to be patient with my journey and trust that being different is actually my strength.

The main lesson I’ve learned is to stay authentic, stay curious, and keep showing up — even when it’s slow, even when it’s confusing.

What I want people to know about me and my story is simple: I’m here to make art, build culture, and create things that actually mean something to people. I’m still growing, still learning — and I’m grateful for everyone who’s been part of that journey.

Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
If my best friend came to visit for a week, we’d spend the time mixing food, culture, nature, and creativity. We’d start downtown with coffee and a waterfront walk just to settle into the city. One of the first stops would definitely be a Nigerian restaurant so they can experience proper jollof, suya, puff puff — all of it — followed by a night with live music. We’d have a day dedicated to nature, like a beach sunset or a scenic trail, a day for art and museums, and I’d definitely bring them to the studio for a creative session, even if it’s just to vibe or listen to unreleased ideas. One night would be a full night out — nice dinner and a rooftop bar — and we’d end the week slow with a relaxed brunch and a movie or live show. For me, the best experience is about good food, good views, real conversations, and moments that make you remember why life is interesting.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
I’d honestly give this shoutout to all our NKENNE users.

You all are the reason this even exists. The fact that people use the app, learn their languages, tell their friends, drop suggestions, correct us sometimes (lol) — it’s been the biggest encouragement.

NKENNE started as something personal for me, but seeing how you all show up for your culture and your languages is what made it grow into a real movement.

So yeah — this one’s for everyone who’s learning, teaching, or reconnecting with their roots through NKENNE.

Thank you for riding with us.

Website: https://www.themichaelo.com

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/michaelomusic/?hl=en

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/michael-odokara-michael-o-60183225

Twitter: https://x.com/michaelomusic?lang=en

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/michaelomusic/

Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCPiIkpv5gso9ImdWrAM-kRw

Other: https://www.nkenne.com/

Image Credits
I own all the pictures