Harrison Tare Okiri (born 30 March 1981) Better known by his stage name Harrysong, is a Nigerian singer, songwriter, and instrumentalist. He rose to fame with his tribute song to Nelson Mandela, winning the Most Downloaded Callertune Award at The Headies in 2013. Harrysong is known for his versatility in genres like R&B, afropop, highlife, and dancehall.
Early Life of Harrysong
Harrysong was born in Warri, Delta State, Nigeria, to Ijaw parents. He is the only child of his parents. After the death of his mother, he faced a strained relationship with his stepmother, leading to his drop-out from school. Harrysong found solace in music, which began at age eleven when he sang in church, directed by his mother. His musical journey grew when he moved to Port Harcourt, later relocating to Lagos in 2007.
Career
Harrysong’s career began as the lead singer of a live band performing in nightclubs. His big break came after meeting Kcee, which led to him signing with Five Star Music. Harrysong’s singles “I’m In Love” and “Taiye & Kehinde” gained significant popularity, with the former topping music video charts on platforms like Trace TV.
In 2012, he released his debut album Testify under QuestionMark Entertainment. The album featured multiple chart-topping hits and solidified his place in the Nigerian music industry. Harrysong’s song “Tribute to Mandela” won Most Downloaded Callertune at The Headies 2015.
In 2020, he dropped the EP Right About Now, followed by God Amongst Men in 2023, which continued his success in the Nigerian music scene. Harrysong’s music blends R&B, dancehall, and afropop, making him a versatile artist.
Personal Life of Harrysong
Harrysong welcomed twins with Alexer Perez Gopa on June 22, 2017. Their children, a son named Perez and a daughter named Tare, were born in 2017. On February 4, 2021, he announced his engagement to Alexer, and they married on March 27, 2021, in Warri.
Awards and Nominations
Harrysong has been recognized for his contributions to music. Notable awards include:
- 2013: Nigeria Music Video Awards – Nominated for Best Pop Extra Video
- 2015: The Headies – Most Downloaded Callertune for “Tribute to Mandela” (Won)
- 2017: The Headies Awards – Best Pop Single for “Reggae Blues” (Won)
- 2021: The Beatz Awards – Special Recognition Award (Won)
Discography
Studio Albums
- Testify (2012)
- Kingmaker (2017)
- Right About Now (2020)
- God Amongst Men (2023)
Selected Singles
- I’m In Love
- Taiye & Kehinde
- “When She Loves”
- Better Pikin
- Reggae Blues (featuring Olamide, Iyanya, Kcee, Orezi)
- “Baba for the Girls” (featuring Kcee)
- “Arabanko”
- “Kona” (featuring Rudeboy)
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