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Fame or service to humanity? Here’s what Patoranking chose and why
Nigerian singer Patrick Nnaemeka Okorie, widely known as Patoranking, emphasized that his music serves as a voice for the less privileged and is primarily about service to humanity and philanthropy rather than chasing fame.
In an interview with media personality Adesope on his Afrobeats Podcast, the “Girlie O” singer explained that his music is dedicated to the common people, as he himself came from a humble background.
When asked how he manages to stay grounded and not be consumed by the luxuries of stardom, Patoranking emphasized his commitment to service to humanity over glitz and glamour.
He believes that stardom comes with responsibilities that should be fulfilled, and he expressed that the path of service is not one that celebrities often choose.
Patoranking’s dedication to using his platform for the betterment of society and his focus on giving back to the less privileged underscore his commitment to making a positive impact beyond his music career.
He said, “I chose a path less travelled like I said earlier, if you’re a public figure you’re there for two reasons ‘glitz and glamour’ or ‘service to humanity’ and I chose service to humanity and it comes with a cost and you have to live up to it you know. You have to live up to it you have to be responsive; it’s a responsibility. It’s a path less travelled and you might not get noticed but you’re doing your thing, the beauty of it is that whenever people look in that direction, you are there.”
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Going on, he asserted that during his upbringing, there was nobody for him to look up to. Therefore, he became that person for others to look up to and he strives to set the right examples.
“It’s not a mistake that I am from the ghetto, when I was growing up we needed someone to look up to because there was no one, and then I became the person, I wanted to be that person. It’s a responsibility because you have to make sure that there is peace in your community, and these are things that make me happy as a human,” he added.
Patoranking, the entertainer who hails from the Ebute Metta area of Lagos and was born and raised there, has a background of humble beginnings.
He grew up sharing a single room with his parents and five siblings. Since achieving stardom, he has been determined not to return to the life of struggle he experienced in his earlier years.
In a July 2017 interview with Punch, Patoranking shared that his humble upbringing served as a strong motivation for him to work even harder. He finds inspiration in his own journey and seeks to inspire others through his music, conveying the message that they have the potential to achieve success and overcome their challenges.
Speaking during a podcast hosted by popular Gospel musician, Tim Godfrey, in 2022, he said, “Growing up, I had always known I would make it. Not because there was everything around me, but because that was the only option I had. Coming from the slum, poverty mindset does not give one the opportunity to think far. It was a fight and I won. I told myself I want to become a symbol of hope to other kids living in the slum. I want them to know it is possible for them to be successful.”
Patoranking’s music carries messages of positivity and hope, as seen in songs like “Heal the World.” He aims to inspire and uplift his audience through his music, encouraging others to make a positive difference in the world.
In addition to his music, Pato is actively involved in community development and charitable work. He believes in giving back to the community and helping those in need.
Importantly, he does not feel the need to publicize his charitable endeavors, as he views his charity work as a personal commitment between himself and a higher purpose, emphasizing a genuine and selfless approach to making a difference in the lives of others.