In a bold proclamation, Habeeb Okikiola, the controversial singer known by the moniker Portable, has confidently declared himself as the heir to the legendary Afrobeat pioneer, Fela Anikulapo-Kuti.
Embracing the title bestowed upon him by his ardent fans, Portable asserts his position as the “newborn Fela” and attributes this recognition to the unwavering support of his fanbase.
During a candid conversation on the latest episode of the Bae U Barbi show, Curiosity Made Me Ask, Portable shed light on the origins of his newfound title.
He clarified, “I didn’t give myself the title, ‘Newborn Fela.’ My fans gave it to me. You know I have a lot of fans, my fans brought me to this point.”
In acknowledging the significance of his followers, Portable emphasizes the role of boldness and independence, stating, “Normally, you have to be bold, a lion don’t fear to walk alone.”
Responding to those who still perceive him as an up-and-coming musician, Portable challenges the notion, asserting his dominance in the Nigerian music scene. “Which superstar do you know that is bigger than me in Nigeria?
I am the one they are talking about now: musician that is trending. My talk is trending, my slangs are trending, my movement is trending, my dressing is trending,” he confidently declares.
Defying conventional timelines of musical ascent, Portable asserts his continuous rise to prominence.
Dismissing any notion of stagnation, he states, “Last year, I was upcoming; this year, I am also upcoming. I will be up and coming every day. Coming with new glory every day. Newborn Fela. Every year is my year.”
This unwavering self-belief underscores Portable’s commitment to evolving and maintaining a perpetual presence at the forefront of the music industry.
As Portable boldly aligns himself with the legacy of Fela Anikulapo-Kuti, the self-proclaimed “newborn Fela” appears poised to carve out his own distinctive path within the Afrobeat genre.
Whether met with skepticism or admiration, Portable’s declaration sets the stage for a musical journey that seeks to honor the spirit of Fela while contributing to the ongoing evolution of Nigeria’s vibrant and dynamic music landscape.
Only time will tell how Portable’s bold assertion shapes his artistic trajectory and cements his place in the annals of Nigerian music history.
