MJ Shaped My Career, Says Peter Okoye

Nigerian music star, Peter Okoye, has opened up on how the late King of Pop, Michael Jackson, profoundly influenced his journey in the music industry.

Speaking in a recent interview with Nile Entertainment while promoting an upcoming Michael Jackson biopic, the singer revealed that his admiration for the global icon began at an early age.

According to the 44-year-old performer, his first encounter with Jackson’s music happened at a cousin’s birthday party, where he danced enthusiastically, initially motivated by the excitement of the moment. However, he said it was Jackson’s electrifying stagecraft and artistic brilliance that left a lasting impression on him.

Okoye disclosed that he and his twin brother, Paul Okoye, were working on their project E No Easy when news of Jackson’s death broke in 2009. In honour of the late icon, the duo infused elements of his signature style into the music video.

“I like everything about him. I still have pictures of myself at 13, 14, 15 years old performing as Michael Jackson,” he said.

Reflecting on the period, he added that they had long sought ways to creatively pay tribute to Jackson before his passing.

Okoye further revealed that Jackson’s family later reached out to commend his efforts in preserving the legend’s legacy.

“Michael Jackson’s family contacted me to say I’m doing the right thing,” he said.

Describing what set the pop icon apart, Okoye noted that Jackson’s impact on global music remains unmatched.

“He left a lasting legacy. He is the king of everything — king of the stage and king of music. His influence will live forever,” he added.

The singer also admitted that many of Jackson’s iconic dance routines, including the backslide and the famous lean, have become part of his own performances over the years.

Jackson died in June 2009 from cardiac arrest caused by a drug overdose, but continues to dominate global charts posthumously, having been named Forbes’ highest-paid dead celebrity multiple times.