SPOTLIGHT: Fricky J, criminology graduate turned artiste who dreams of a Wizkid feature

Whilst emigrating has been popular among the under-40 generation in Nigeria, Nniga Ernest Joe-Chim’s dream is the opposite.

Better known by his stage name, Fricky J, the United Arab Emirates-based singer hopes to return to Nigeria to make exploits in the country’s booming music industry.

From Criminology to music

A good number of Nigerian entertainers hold educational qualifications in fields that differ from their chosen paths, Fricky J is no different.

The Calabar-born singer holds a bachelor’s degree in political science from Tansian University, Umuahia in Anambra state, and a masters degree in criminology from the University of Lagos, Akoka.

The ‘Folake’ singer said his parents were enraged when he decided to pursue music rather than pursue a career in line with his educational qualifications.

“At first my family didn’t support my dreams because music was not their idea of a dignified career, however, from 2012 when I started making progress, they had no option but to support me,” he said.

Sights set on Nigeria

Fricky J believes he can make it big in Nigeria and he has armed himself with the work ethics required to get fans in his corner.

He says he hopes to hit the ground running once travel restrictions imposed as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic are lifted.

“With a non-controversial work ethic, talent, and hard work, the top is not far off,” he said.

“When it comes to dedication, talent and hard work, Wizkid and Patoranking are high up there. I wish to someday be on a record with them, it will be my biggest dream come through but it is surely not beyond my reach. I am closer than I was yesterday to realizing my dream

“The release date of a new song titled “Ego” where I was featured by colleague and singer, ‘Maxmarcel’ is yet to be determined, however, I urge my fans to expect a come back to the Nigerian music industry.”

Helping others to the top

In the quest to stardom in Nigeria’s music industry, Joe-Chim says he has plans to float a record label to give other rising artistes a platform.

“I wish to give youngsters an early platform to present their talents to the world,” he said, referring to his proposed record label, South-South Records.

He has so far released 15 songs.