NIGERIA is a long way from Jamaica. But Patoranking believes the music of both countries are connected spiritually.

“The Afrocentric sound is a unique one and people are always fascinated with new things, from music to art to fashion. Everyone wants a piece of what is new, what is trending, or what is fresh. Afrobeat is a fresh sound with a lot of rhythm, groove and is a whole vibe in itself,” he told Jamaica Observer.

“Reggae music in Nigeria is great because it is spiritual music and my people are very spiritual. It has not been so difficult to carve out a niche; I guess that is where originality comes in and plays a role,” he continued.

Patoranking is billed to perform at Rebel Salute in Priory, St Ann, scheduled to run from January 18 to 19.

This is the Nigerian reggae/dancehall singjay’s second major gig in Jamaica, having performed at Reggae Sumfest 2017 in St James. He is elated about his upcoming assignment and looks forward to sharing the sounds from his roots.

“It is a great honour to grace the same stage as the great ones I have always looked up to,” he said.

“I am always happy to bring something new to any stage I perform on and this will not be different. The fact that it is an Afrocentric Reggae Festival excites me because I will be bringing sounds from the motherland to the stage. It will be all about the African culture,” he continued.

Also billed is Ugandan artiste/politician Bobi Wine. Michael Rose, The Wailers, The Wailing Soul, Dawn Penn, Wayne Marshall, Marcia Aitken, Anthony Malvo, Wayne Wonder, Cat Coore, Luciano, Perfect, Capleton, Leroy Gibbons, Terri Ganzie, Chezidek, The Mighty Diamonds, Koffee, Mr Easy, Jahbouks, Anu Brian Gold, Bushman, Queen Ifrica, Leroy Smart, Chalice, Yellowman, Agent Sasco, Horace Andy, Half Pint, Ken Boothe, Mr Vegas, Nesbeth, Turbulence, Louie Culture, Echo Minott, Jesse Royal, and Rodney Pryce (aka Bounty Killer) are also in this year’s line-up.

Born and raised in Ijegun-Egba, Patoranking’s given name is Patrick Okorie. The 28-year-old said he grew up listening to Bob Marley and Shabba Ranks. He started his musical career by doing collaborations with artistes like X Project, Konga and Reggie Rockstone.

He signed a distribution deal with VP records in 2015. His songs, include: My Woman, My Everything; Available and Love You Die.

The singjay said he has an album coming out this year, but was tightlipped about the details.

“I have my album coming out this year as well as many other projects in the works… I can promise nothing less than fire coming. I intend to make 2019 memorable for the fans,” he added.