23/03/2024
RAPIZO: YOUNG MAN LIFTED BY OLD SONGS
By Tahav Agerzua
I've known the great performer, Rapizo, for over a decade, but I only got to know his real name this year.
Lubem Luke Nyam has always impressed me with his good looks, neat dressing and humility.
Above all, his music. It is unique, a blend of the old and the new. The instrumentation is modern and appealing.
An indigene of Gwer West in Benue State, born on 8th August, 1987, Rapizo's father, a nurse, wished that his son would be a medical doctor.
However, the challenge of taking care of many children made the realization of that dream impossible.
Rapizo found himself selling firewood, washing motorcycles and cars, as well as serving as a poultry hand, to raise little funds with which to make contributions to his upkeep.
It was while washing and singing that someone pointed out to him that he had a pleasant voice and could be a good singer.
Incidentally, he had taken interest in the traditional back up drums in the church choir which he eventually joined when the substantive drummer was sick.
But what set him on a professional upward swing was the singing of old traditional Tiv folk songs to mark time when a friend invited him to assist him record in a studio.
The owner of the studio was immediately fascinated and requested him to record the songs.
Tune in and listen on Asking Radio at 98.5MHz or watch on Facebook or YouTube as Rapizo interacts with Tahav Agerzua, on the program, GURGUR MAN MSAANYOL.
The program holds today, Saturday, 23rd March, 2024, between 5 and 6 pm.
You can call to interact with them in Tiv.
