Austine Mukoro (Walegr8), born into a family of artistds and entertainers, began as a dancer and drummer at a young age in his parents’ cultural group. Prince Liverpool Mukoro, his father, was a prominent textile designer with Peterson Zochonis (PZ) in Lagos and his mother a dancer.
Mukoro’s name was associated with numerous trademark designs and logos. He was a percussionist and choreographer who earned a reputation for himself by choreographing the dance ensemble of Christiana Essien Igbokwe, the legendary Nigerian solo singer and Lady of Songs. Christiana Essien Igbokwe’s band won the renowned silver prize for their inventive choreography at a music festival competition in Seoul, South Korea, back then.
His mother, Agnes Mukoro, on the other hand, was a fashion designer, dancer, and percussionist who infused her life and home with a rich tapestry of artistic expression. Austin Mukoro reflects on his journey thus far in this virtual conversation.
Walegr8 arrived in New York, USA, as an artisan in 1997. Became Opiri Dance Troupe’s lead dancer and drummer. Mike Okri, a well-known Nigerian superstar, founded the dancing ensemble. Walegr8 now exhibits his amazing abilities with the release of his new single, “Never Give Up,” an Afrobeat street song with a touch of evangelism, and a beautiful rhythm that delivers unique themes, and that touches the spirit of every listener.
Who is Walegr8’s intended audience? “As you may be aware, Afrobeat continues to garner international acclaim, thanks to the exploits of Burna Boy, Davido, and others on the rise, such as Rema, Kizz Daniel, and others. Walegr8’s target audience includes music fans from all over the world, children, and individuals from all walks of life who are drawn to the genre’s vivid and addictive melodies.
He said he opted to study Afrobeat because of its traditional roots, a musical genre attributed to the heritage of Fela Anikulapo Kuti. Walegr8’s goal in recreating Afrobeat music is to pay homage to this rich musical tradition while also contributing to its continued progress.
What is the reaction to the new song, and how well is it welcomed on social media, Saturday INDEPENDENT inquired. He said that many elements influence the acceptance of ‘Never Give Up which include its social media reception, my existing fan base, the backing of social media influencers, shares, likes, comments, #hashtags, the success of promotional activities, and the overall quality and attractiveness of the music.
Walegr8’s broad expertise as a dancer, drummer, and choreographer in Nigeria and America (USA) is amazing. From being a member of his parents’ childhood cultural dance company to cooperating with numerous dance troupes and cultural plays, his journey demonstrates his dedication to conserving and promoting Nigeria’s cultural heritage through music and dance.
Some of the collaborations include but are not limited to, Urhobo Cultural Group; my early experience as a dancer and drummer for my parents’ childhood cultural dance group, “provided me with a strong foundation in traditional Nigerian dance or music, and the leverage to show the scope of his talent in different formats.”
Urhobo Cultural Group was his early experience as a dancer and drummer for his parents’ childhood cultural dance group, which “provided me with a strong foundation in traditional Nigerian dance or music, and the leverage to show the scope of my talent in different formats.”
Walegr8 embarked on an extraordinary artistic journey to the United States in 1997 as an artisan and member of the Opiri Dance Troupe, initiated by the esteemed Nigerian superstar, Mike Okri, known for hit songs such as “Omoge” Time na money, Rhumba Dance, Concert Fever, and many others. The objective of the Opiri Dance Troupe was to enchant the American audience with their mesmerising beauty and grace.
Walegr8 continues to contribute to the artistic and cultural scene while working as the artistic choreographer at Adichi Productions and Entertainment, honing his abilities and knowledge. His work with the Nigerian dance company Safakina gave him more opportunity to demonstrate his talent and share his love of traditional Nigerian dance and music.
His work as percussionist and choreographer for Noni’s Annual Fashion Show in Brooklyn, NY, further demonstrated his versatility and the scope of his artistic talents beyond traditional dance performances. Most notably, he is the head Drummer for the New York Mermaid Parade in Coney Island, New York, where his engagement as the head drummer for the New York Mermaid Parade in Coney Island highlights his involvement in numerous cultural events in New York City.
Indeed , Dick Zigun, the unelected Mayor of Corney Island can’t be forgotten for his role in ensuring Walegr8, born Austin Liverpool gets the best of both theatre 🎭 and music. Zigun played so much role in squeezing out the best in Walegr8 that he has become a permanent feature of the New York Mermaid 🧜♀️ Parade.
Greetings brother.In addition, Walegr8 has already churned out some songs including Never give Up -Single, Good Times, which is also Singles and others still in the works and should be added soon.
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