EK
EK (born Daniel Ibeh, May 4, 1990, in Lagos, Nigeria), is a Boston based rap artist. After migrating to the United States in 2001, EK found it hard to adapt to a life with so many cultural differences. He found the universal voice of music as a comfort and connection to the ever changing road that lay ahead of him.
Making a promise to himself to always follow his dreams, EK uses his love of words to tell his story. His first mix tape “Road 2 Stardom” was released in the winter of 2008, and his follow-up project “Radio Friendly” debuted in May 2011.
EK’s music has been broadcast on 88.9 WERS in Boston, and he has appeared on BNN TV’s Shine as well as appeared in the movies “The Fighter” with Mark Walberg and “The Town” with Ben Affleck. EK says, “I want my music to tell my life’s story and speak of my challenges adapting to a world that knows how to stop dreaming. I want to be an example to young people that dreams can come true!”
Growing up in Nigeria, EK realized he was always an outgoing child, able to articulate himself through his words. At the age of 10, EK moved to the United States. Living in an unfamiliar land, EK connected with the wrong crowds and constantly struggled to defend his heritage. EK was arrested at 14, and the shock of possible imprisonment made EK realize that he needed to change his ways and find another outlet to his emotions. EK took out a pen and paper and began to write out his feelings. Over time, he found himself naturally memorizing his words and putting them to beats.
His lyrical expression helped EK make his transition into manhood. From that point on, EK started to identify himself as rap artist and desires to influence today’s youth in a positive way. His music also helped him develop a spiritual balance within his life, and ultimately it made him the grounded man he is today. EK challenges himself everyday to practice his craft and exercise his passion.
EK has given 100% of himself to his passion for rapping and is focused on fulfilling his dreams. Through hard work and determination, the sky is the limit for this versatile urban rap artist. EK says, “If people open their hearts and minds to my music they will hear my story, and something will resonate in their souls.”