Afrobeats has always thrived on innovation, with each new wave of artists pushing boundaries and bringing fresh energy to the sound. Emerging from Abuja, Nigeria, and now based in Toronto, Canada, Van Iyke (real name Ebenezer Chijioke) is carving a lane that’s both bold and futuristic. He’s not just another rising star; he’s a tech-driven Afrobeats visionary, merging infectious melodies with a passion for entrepreneurship and innovation.

With dedication to his sound that blends Afrobeats, Afro-fusion, R&B, highlife, and hip-hop, Van Iyke represents the next frontier of African music, experimental yet familiar, global yet rooted in Naija culture, and beyond his music, he’s equally committed to mentoring young creatives, building platforms, and inspiring change.

Here are five things you need to know about Van Iyke, the artist who is steadily building an empire on and off the stage.

1. His Journey Started in Abuja, Nigeria, and Evolved in Toronto, Canada
Raised in a faith-filled, education-driven home in Abuja, Van Iyke was surrounded by the golden sounds of Wande Coal, Mo’Hits All Stars, Style Plus, and Choc Boys. These influences shaped his melodic instincts and love for storytelling. Later, moving to Canada, he was exposed to diverse sounds and broadened his perspective, fueling his desire to create music that transcends borders. Today, his artistry is a fusion of African roots and global outlook.

2. From Engineering to Afrobeats, His Career Path is Uniquely Bold
Before fully stepping into music, Van Iyke was a Software Support Engineer, a career that sharpened his discipline, problem-solving mindset, and strategic approach. While some artists might often experience music as a vibe, Van Iyke approaches it with the precision of an engineer, blending creativity with structure, a duality that shapes his artistry and fuels his ambition of becoming a “Tech Music Entrepreneur.”

3. He’s Already Made Chart Waves With His Early Singles
Though officially debuting in 2024, Van Iyke isn’t exactly new to success. His breakout single “Oh No” topped radio charts and earned him recognition in HIP TV’s Next Rated category. Then, he released another track, “Undercover,” which stormed Boomplay charts, racking up over 1 million streams in just one month. For an artist still defining his sound, these achievements proved he wasn’t just experimenting; he was connecting.

4. His Performances Bridge Culture and Energy
Live shows are where Van Iyke thrives. He has performed as an opening act for Naeto C and headlined a major show at Sheraton Hotel Abuja alongside comedian MC Edo Pikin, attended by high-profile dignitaries and tastemakers. Whether on small stages, like weddings or big concert venues, Van Iyke views each performance as a chance to connect deeply with audiences and test his evolving sound.

5. He’s Building an Empire Beyond Music
Van Iyke doesn’t just see himself as an artist; he sees himself as a brand builder through his self-owned label, Van Iyke Music Empire, and its subsidiary, Dberries Entertainment, with a commitment to mentoring young talents, merging tech with music, and creating platforms for the next generation. His upcoming project, “Empire Ascension” (EP/album), promises to showcase his experimental edge while setting the foundation for a career defined by creativity, innovation, and impact.

For Van Iyke, music is more than just entertainment; it’s a tool for inspiration. His brand slogan, “Inspiring Change, One Song at a Time,” captures this purpose, which is to make music that resonates emotionally while sparking ambition in his listeners. With white and gold as his signature brand colours, he embodies elegance and aspiration, reminding fans that his empire is not just about himself but about lifting others.