Bongos Ikwue (born June 6, 1942) is a legendary Nigerian musician, singer-songwriter, and cultural icon, renowned for his soulful blend of folk, highlife, and country music. With a career spanning over five decades, he has significantly influenced Nigeria’s musical landscape.
Early Life & Education
Born in Otukpo, Benue State, Nigeria, Bongos Ikwue is of Idoma ethnicity. His early exposure to traditional Idoma music and various global genres, including gospel, country, blues, and jazz, shaped his eclectic musical style. He attended St. Paul’s Secondary School in Zaria and later Okene Comprehensive Secondary School, where he formed his first band, the Cubana Boys. He pursued Business Administration at Ahmadu Bello University (ABU), Zaria, and during his time there, he formed the UniBello Brothers band and participated in a folk group comprising university lecturers.
Musical Career
In 1967, Bongos Ikwue founded the band “Bongos Ikwue and The Groovies,” which gained immense popularity in the 1970s and 1980s. His music is characterized by its originality, often incorporating the Idoma language and themes promoting African values. Notable songs include “Cockcrow at Dawn,” “Still Searching,” “Amen,” “Otachikpokpo,” and “What’s Gonna Be, Gonna Be.” His song “Cockcrow at Dawn” became the theme for a popular Nigerian TV soap opera.
In 2013, he released the album Wulu Wulu with his band Double X, featuring a mix of remakes and new songs. The album includes tracks like “Kongo Soldier,” “Mustapha and Christopha,” and “Inale,” the latter serving as the soundtrack for a film produced by his daughter, Keke Bongos.
Personal Life
Bongos Ikwue is married to Josephine, and they have five children: Oyankeke, Elamei (Omei), Jessica, Onyew, and Igoche. His daughter Jessica Bongos has followed in his musical footsteps, releasing her debut album Broken to Peace in 2017.
Legacy and Recognition
Bongos Ikwue’s contributions to music have earned him a revered place among Nigerian music legends. In 2022, he joined the Musical Copyright Society Nigeria (MCSN) to ensure proper compensation for his works. As of 2025, he revealed having over 40 unreleased songs, indicating his enduring creativity and commitment to music.
His music continues to inspire and influence generations, preserving the rich cultural heritage of the Idoma people and Nigerian music at large.