David Abeke

Author: SimeonKing

David Abeke, born in 1970 in Zaki-Biam, Benue State, is one of the most talented and socially conscious musicians from the region. His music serves as a platform to inspire hope and raise awareness of societal issues, particularly the challenges faced by young people and the less privileged.

Abeke’s early interest in music was influenced by his siblings and musicians like Jimmy Cliff, Bob Marley, and Bongos Ikwue, whose music spoke to the African reality of hardship and survival. Growing up in a musically inclined household, Abeke found a parallel between his surroundings in Tivland—rich in culture but plagued with poverty and underdevelopment—and the messages carried in the music of these legends.

Education and Early Career

Abeke began his educational journey at Sankera Primary School, followed by Mbapuun Grammar Secondary School. He later attended Government Technical School, Makurdi, where he studied Refrigeration and Air Conditioning Technology. During this time, music began competing with his academic pursuits, and his passion for it eventually won. In 1991, he moved to Lagos, where he studied at the Rick Mac Music Institute and later worked as a backup vocalist at Arch Recording Studios.

Musical Career

In 1993, Abeke released his first album, “Lost Affection“, but its lack of promotion led to financial struggles. This difficult period inspired two of his most famous songs, Tar Ne Taver Yum and Come Tomorrow, which speak to the frustrations of young people striving for success amidst societal indifference and broken promises.

Abeke’s second album, “Some Other Day“, was released in 1998 and included the hit Good Morning Nigeria.

Socially Conscious Music

In 2003, Abeke released Come Tomorrow, a socially conscious album addressing issues such as HIV/AIDS (Fire on the Mountain) and the plight of displaced persons (Refugee). His later music, including the album Or Tan Ivor (The Sower), reflects on the divine distribution of talents and opportunities, urging people to fulfill their responsibilities in life.

Themes and Legacy

David Abeke’s music is a blend of reality, hope, and social critique, drawing from his experiences and the hardships faced by those around him. Through his work, he continues to advocate for a more just and sincere society, using his voice to inspire positive change.