Ben Okafor

Born in Nigeria, his early childhood was one that was to shape the man and his music. At the age of 15 he was a boy soldier using a kalashnikov to fight in the bitter civil war that tore his country apart. It was here, as a refugee Okafor would sit and play music to those that were with him, his songs reflecting a heartfelt plea for justice, truth and love.

Ben moved to Europe in the 1980's and settled in the Midlands and shortly released two albums back to back. Nkiru (meaning freedom) and Generation were well received in the UK, but the American market was extremely receptive with sales in the high thousands, a mean feat, considering there was minimum press and publicity.

Ben has toured extensively in the United States, Nigeria, Europe and South Africa and with sell out performances at Ronnie Scott's and a main stage appearance at Greenbelt which shows the rising interest and following of this prolific artist.

Okafor's latest album, Coffee With Lazarus sees reggae music moving into places where there are no restrictions, with some African folk, ska and a little jazz thrown into the equation. Ben makes this an album that his early influences - Peter Tosh, the Wailers and Marley himself, would listen intently to. Featuring the single See Me Now and such personal tracks as No Stopping (written about the death of his baby son) and the opening track Palace about the continuing battle against injustice, Okafor shows that he really does write his songs with passion and meaning. This is what sets him apart.

We caught up with Ben Okafor at CRE in Birmingham. talkGospel's LJ North began by asking him how he would describe his music as others have compared him to Joe Higgs and Paul Simon listen>>>

LJ then asked him about his latest release listen>>>

We also recorded 3 live tracks....

Sanctify my Soul
Raise your concsience
Heaven and earth