Patoranking Biography, Net Worth, And Career Achievements

Patoranking is one of Nigeria's most celebrated musicians, known for his unique fusion of reggae, dancehall, and Afrobeat. With a career that spans over a decade, Patoranking has established himself as a global artist with a socially conscious message embedded in his music. His journey from humble beginnings to international stardom is a story of resilience, talent, and dedication.

Early Life and Background

Born Patrick Nnaemeka Okorie on May 27, 1990, in Ijegun-Egba, Lagos State, Nigeria, Patoranking hails from Onicha, Ebonyi State. He grew up in Lagos, where he was exposed to diverse music genres, including reggae, hip-hop, and local Nigerian sounds. Raised in a modest family, Patoranking had to navigate life’s challenges from a young age. His love for music was evident early on, and he started performing in his local community as a teenager.

Patoranking attended Citizen Comprehensive College in Epe, Lagos, and later enrolled at Jibril Martin Memorial Grammar School in Iponri. Although his formal education was important, his focus was always on his passion for music. His early influences included legendary Jamaican reggae artists like Bob Marley, Buju Banton, and Lucky Dube, as well as Nigerian stars like Fela Kuti and 2Baba.

Music Career and Breakthrough

Patoranking’s professional music journey began when he moved to Ghana to explore his music interests. His first notable release was "Up in D Club" in 2009, but it did not achieve much success. However, his persistence paid off when he collaborated with Timaya on the 2013 single "Alubarika." The song became an instant hit and served as his breakthrough in the Nigerian music industry. "Alubarika," meaning "God’s Blessing," reflected Patoranking’s gratitude for his journey so far, while its catchy reggae-infused sound resonated widely with fans.

The success of "Alubarika" earned Patoranking a deal with Foston Musik in 2014. That same year, he released another major hit, "Girlie O," which became a massive success across Africa. The song was later remixed with Tiwa Savage, further boosting his profile. "Girlie O" marked Patoranking as a leading figure in Nigeria’s evolving dancehall and reggae scene.

Rise to Fame

After the success of "Girlie O," Patoranking continued to release chart-topping singles, including "Daniella Whine" and "My Woman, My Everything" featuring Wande Coal. His ability to blend dancehall, Afrobeat, and highlife made him stand out in the competitive Nigerian music industry. In 2015, he won the Best New Act award at the MTV Africa Music Awards (MAMAs), further solidifying his position as a rising star.

Notable Career Achievements

Patoranking’s journey from a grassroots artist to a global sensation is marked by several milestones. Some of his most notable career achievements include:

Debut Album – "God Over Everything": In 2016, Patoranking released his debut album, God Over Everything (GOE), which featured hit singles like "No Kissing Baby" featuring Sarkodie and "This Kind Love" featuring Wizkid. The album was a commercial success, topping charts in Nigeria and other African countries.

Second Album – "Wilmer": In 2019, Patoranking dropped his second studio album, Wilmer, which was named after his daughter. The album included collaborations with artists such as Davido, Bera, and Nyashinski. The project showcased Patoranking’s growth as an artist, blending African rhythms with his signature reggae and dancehall style.

Award Wins: Patoranking’s efforts have earned him numerous awards, including the Headies Award for Best Reggae/Dancehall Album, MTV Africa Music Award for Song of the Year, and AFRIMA Awards. He has also received nominations for prestigious awards like the MOBO Awards.

International Recognition: Patoranking has performed on some of the world’s biggest stages, including the Reggae Sumfest in Jamaica and the BET Awards. His international appeal has made him a leading African ambassador of reggae and dancehall music.

Socially Conscious Music: Beyond the hits and accolades, Patoranking’s music often carries a socially conscious message. Songs like "Heal D World" and "Black" focus on themes of peace, unity, and empowerment, addressing issues like poverty, inequality, and violence.

Net Worth

As of 2024, Patoranking’s estimated net worth is around $5 million. His wealth comes from multiple sources, including album sales, streaming revenues, endorsement deals, and concert performances. He has secured lucrative endorsement deals with major brands like Hennessy and Infinix Mobile, adding to his financial success.

Philanthropy and Personal Life

Patoranking is known for his philanthropic efforts, particularly in supporting education. In 2019, he launched the Patoranking Scholarship Programme, in partnership with the African Leadership University (ALU), offering scholarships to African students. His commitment to giving back has endeared him to fans and made him a role model for young people across the continent.

Patoranking is a proud father to his daughter, Wilmer, who he often celebrates on social media. Despite his fame, he maintains a relatively private personal life, focusing more on his career and philanthropy.

Conclusion

Patoranking’s rise to fame is a testament to his talent, hard work, and perseverance. From his early struggles in Lagos to becoming an international music icon, his journey is an inspiration to many. With multiple hit songs, prestigious awards, and a growing legacy, Patoranking continues to shape the African music landscape while staying true to his roots in reggae and dancehall.