US-based Nigerian Afrobeats singer, David Cross aka K’WATE, is ready to take over the world of music.
Speaking after winning the AFRIMMA award in the United States recently, K’WATE said the global music scene is for him to conquer, and he’s ready to do exactly so.
The AFRIMMA award is one of the major international recognitions received by the artiste, who has continued to build his career in the US while maintaining strong ties with his Nigerian roots.
K’WATE described the recognition as a celebration of hard work, resilience and the growing influence of African artistes building careers abroad.
He thanked God, his family, team, fans, DJs, promoters, media practitioners and AFRIMMA for supporting his musical journey.
The artiste also urged African musicians in the United States to take their careers seriously and invest in their music, branding, performances and professionalism.
“To every Afrobeats artiste based in the United States: stop asking America to take African music seriously when some of us don’t take ourselves seriously,” he said.
K’WATE also encouraged upcoming artistes not to depend on external validation. “Awards don’t build careers. Work does. Don’t wait to be chosen. Choose yourself, build your platform, and let your work make the world notice,” he stated.
The singer began his musical journey in Edo State before relocating to Lagos in 1998. His career gained wider attention in 2010 following the release of the single Party Dey Here off his debut album, Tami Lorobo.
His recent projects include From Me To You EP and the single, Flower Boy, which continue to attract streams online.
With the AFRIMMA win now under his belt, K’WATE’s eyes are firmly set on conquering the musical world while staying true to his Afrobeats roots.