Jessica Bongos-Ikwue from Otukpo, Benue State was born on July 15th, 1983 in Lagos State, Nigeria. Growing up with a musician father, who usually gathered the family around the living room to play the guitar and sing songs with them, she was constantly surrounded by a lot of music.
She acquired a Bachelor’s degree in International Development and a Masters in Leisure events and facilities management but couldn’t resist the call from her first love; music.
“Music has been a major part of my life for as long as I can remember. Instruments always intrigued me, especially the bass guitar. Music touches the deepest part of my soul. It is to me, the most beautiful artistic expression of feelings that people can relate to on a daily basis”
Jessica officially started singing with her father, Bongos Ikwue in 2006, recording backing vocals on a few of his songs.
Her musical influences stem from a vast variety of genres such as old school Motown, soul, r’n’b, jazz, gospel, alternative and country music.
“I absolutely love those singers with unique voices. You know, the kind that you can recognise anytime you hear them like Duffy, Lauryn Hill, Cyndi Lauper, Dolly Parton, Bruce Springsteen, Macy Gray, Brandy, Passenger and David Ruffin”.
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