Biography of Joschidi (Ogene Izzi Nnodo) – Age, Career, and Early Life

Introduction – The Voice of Izzi Heritage

In a world where modern Afrobeat dominates the airwaves, few artists have the courage to preserve indigenous sounds while giving them new life. One of those exceptional artists is Joschidi, born Joseph Chidi Ekuma, a proud cultural ambassador and the self-styled Ogene Izzi Nnodo — meaning the voice of Izzi land.

Hailing from Ndugbala-Eze Amachi Izzi, in Abakaliki Local Government Area of Ebonyi State, Nigeria, Joschidi has emerged as a passionate promoter of Ogene music — a traditional Igbo sound known for its energetic percussion, spiritual resonance, and cultural storytelling.

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His debut single, “Okeru Wa”, released in October 2025, officially marked his arrival on Nigeria’s indigenous music scene, blending ancestral rhythm with modern sound engineering to produce something deeply authentic and refreshing.

Early Life and Background

Joseph Chidi Ekuma, popularly known as Joschidi, was born on 28th February 1994 in Ebonyi State, southeastern Nigeria. Growing up in Ndugbala-Eze Amachi Izzi, a community rich in culture and oral tradition, he was surrounded by the music of drums, flutes, and chants that told the stories of his people.

His childhood was simple but filled with rhythm. In the evenings, he would listen to local elders perform traditional songs at festivals, weddings, and moonlight gatherings. Those experiences planted in him a love for sound and performance that would later define his life.

“I didn’t learn music in school,” Joschidi says. “I learned it from my people — from the soil of Izzi land itself.”

From a young age, he began experimenting with local instruments, especially the ogene, ekwe, and udu drums. Over time, his skills and passion grew, setting him apart as one of the most talented young traditional musicians in his area.

Cultural Roots and the Influence of Izzi Tradition

The Izzi people of Ebonyi State are known for their rich music traditions, and Joschidi is proudly carrying that legacy forward. In Izzi land, music isn’t just for entertainment — it’s a language of expression, celebration, and spiritual connection.

From birth ceremonies to coronations, every event has a rhythm, and every rhythm tells a story. Joschidi’s deep connection to this heritage shapes his identity and message as an artist.

Growing up in Ndugbala-Eze Amachi, he was constantly surrounded by the sound of drums calling people to celebration or prayer. These traditional melodies taught him the power of music as a bridge between the old and the new, the living and the ancestors.

He often says his inspiration comes directly from the land — from the red soil, the people’s laughter, and the beat of the ogene echoing at dawn.

The Birth of an Artist – Journey into Music

While many Nigerian artists pursue contemporary genres like Afrobeat or Hip-hop, Joschidi chose culture. His musical journey began not in big studios, but in village gatherings and cultural performances.

He started performing at community events, earning respect for his unique voice and his ability to blend ancestral Igbo sounds with modern rhythm. His performances often electrified audiences, as he infused traditional language, proverbs, and energy into his delivery.

For Joschidi, music is not just sound — it’s storytelling, identity, and legacy. His decision to focus on Ogene music was driven by a desire to preserve the dignity of his roots while reaching a global audience.

“I want people to know that our culture is alive,” he explains. “Ogene is not old music — it is forever music.”

Debut Track – “Okeru Wa” (2025)

In October 2025, Joschidi released his debut single titled “Okeru Wa”, a powerful cultural song that introduced him to a wider audience.

About the Song:

• Title: Okeru Wa

• Release Date: October 2025

• Genre: Ogene / Traditional Afro Fusion

• Theme: Pride, identity, and cultural unity

• Language: Igbo and Pidgin

The phrase “Okeru Wa” translates loosely to “Our Voice Has Spoken” — a symbolic expression of self-awareness and communal pride. The song celebrates the Igbo people’s strength and resilience, encouraging listeners to embrace their identity without shame.

The rhythmic beat of ogene bells, mixed with chants and modern percussion, creates an unforgettable sound. The song quickly became popular across Ebonyi communities and Nigerian cultural music lovers online.

Listeners praised it not just as a song, but as an anthem — a call to unity and cultural revival.

Musical Style and Influence

Joschidi’s sound is deeply rooted in Ogene and African traditional rhythm, but he skillfully incorporates elements of Afro-fusion to make it appealing to modern audiences. His songs carry deep messages wrapped in catchy beats, ensuring that while listeners dance, they also reflect.

His Music Is Defined By:

• Authenticity: 100% rooted in Igbo heritage.

• Message: Social awareness, spirituality, and cultural pride.

• Instrumentation: Ogene, ekwe, udu, flute, shekere, and digital percussion.

• Language: Primarily Igbo, with English and Pidgin blends for accessibility.

His musical influences include great Nigerian traditional and Afrobeat icons such as Chief Oliver De Coque, Prince Nico Mbarga, Phyno, and Umu Obiligbo — artists who built bridges between heritage and modern music.

But unlike many of his contemporaries, Joschidi’s originality lies in his commitment to culture, not commercialism. He believes that traditional music still has power and place in today’s digital world.

“Our culture is our brand,” he says proudly. “If we abandon it, we lose ourselves.”

The Meaning of ‘Ogene Izzi Nnodo’

Joschidi’s popular alias, “Ogene Izzi Nnodo,” literally means “The Sound of Izzi Land.” It’s both a title and a responsibility — representing not just himself but his people.

Through this name, he seeks to unify the voices of Izzi youth, reminding them that greatness lies in remembering their origin. His performances often begin with a traditional chant honoring his ancestors, followed by electrifying percussion that moves both young and old.

This title has made him a cultural ambassador, a bridge between generations. In Ebonyi and neighboring states, his name is synonymous with authentic Igbo sound and youthful pride.

Life Philosophy and Cultural Mission

For Joschidi, music is not just art — it’s a mission. His dream is to preserve and modernize Ogene so that future generations will not only hear it but also play it proudly.

He believes music has the power to unite people and heal communities divided by modern struggles.

“When the ogene sounds,” he says, “even people who don’t understand Igbo feel something move in their spirit. That is the power of our sound.”

He also uses his platform to promote cultural education, urging young Nigerians to reconnect with their roots, learn their language, and celebrate their traditions.

Challenges as a Cultural Musician

Breaking into the Nigerian music industry is never easy — especially for traditional artists. While Afrobeat dominates global charts, indigenous musicians often face limited funding, exposure, and industry support.

Joschidi has had to navigate these challenges with patience and purpose. From finding culturally sensitive producers to self-funding his recordings, every step of his journey has required resilience.

Still, he remains undeterred. His passion for representing Izzi culture keeps him moving.

“I’m not just singing for fame,” he says. “I’m singing to keep our ancestors’ sound alive.”

Achievements and Recognition

Though new to the mainstream scene, Joschidi’s influence is already growing. His performances at local festivals and cultural events have earned him recognition as one of the rising voices in southeastern traditional music.

His debut single, “Okeru Wa,” continues to gain organic traction on platforms like Audiomack, Boomplay, and YouTube, drawing listeners from across Nigeria and the diaspora.

He’s also received invitations to perform at Ebonyi State cultural carnivals, community festivals, and radio interviews, where he shares his vision of uniting Africa through sound.

Personal Life

Outside music, Joschidi is known for his humility, calmness, and strong moral values. He enjoys community activities, cultural mentorship, and promoting local talents in his area.

He believes in teamwork and collaboration, often encouraging young artists in Ebonyi to join him in preserving their shared heritage.

Despite his growing fame, Joschidi remains deeply spiritual, often attributing his success to faith and the blessings of his ancestors.

Future Goals and Vision

Looking ahead, Joschidi plans to release a full Ogene album, which will feature both traditional and fusion tracks, showcasing the diversity of Igbo sound.

He also hopes to collaborate with mainstream artists to bring cultural rhythm into modern Afrobeat, making the Ogene sound more globally recognized.

In addition, he dreams of creating a Cultural Music Academy in Ebonyi — a center where young people can learn about music, heritage, and stage performance.

“Our sound deserves global respect,” he says. “The world should know that from Ebonyi, something powerful has risen.”

Conclusion – The Biography of Joschidi (Joseph Chidi Ekuma)

The biography of Joschidi is not just the story of one man — it’s the revival of a people’s sound. Born on February 28, 1994, in Ebonyi State, Nigeria, and raised in Ndugbala-Eze Amachi Izzi, he embodies the strength and creativity of the Igbo spirit.

His debut track, “Okeru Wa” (October 2025), has placed him among the promising cultural artists in Nigeria — one who blends authenticity with innovation.

Through his music, Joschidi is preserving the identity of his people while inspiring young Africans to stay proud of their roots.

He is more than a musician; he is a cultural messenger, a teacher, and a voice of the ancestors in the modern age.

FAQ – Biography of Joschidi (Joseph Chidi Ekuma)

1. Who is Joschidi?
Joschidi, whose real name is Joseph Chidi Ekuma, is a Nigerian cultural musician from Ebonyi State, known for promoting Ogene music and representing the Izzi heritage.

2. When was Joschidi born?
He was born on 28th February 1994 in Ebonyi State, Nigeria.

3. Where did Joschidi grow up?
He grew up in Ndugbala-Eze Amachi Izzi, Abakaliki Local Government Area, Ebonyi State.

4. When did Joschidi release his first song?
He released his debut single, “Okeru Wa”, in October 2025.

5. What genre of music does Joschidi perform?
Joschidi performs Ogene traditional music — a form of Igbo percussion-based cultural sound blended with Afro-fusion elements.

6. Why is he called Ogene Izzi Nnodo?
The title “Ogene Izzi Nnodo” means “The Sound of Izzi Land” — a recognition of his role as the musical voice of his community.