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By Rita Okoye
Chekwube Ochokwu, popularly known as Vato, is rated among Nigeria’s promising music artistes that will blaze the trail around the world with his unique talent in rap music.
Vato began his journey in the entertainment industry in 2017, not initially as a recording artiste, but as a Television presenter and producer.
To stamp his presence as a TV presenter back then, he created and hosted Vato’s Rap Battle (VRB), a competitive rap platform where music rappers went head-to-head in lyrical skill, rhymes, and performance.
VRB gained significant attention and made history by hosting the longest streaming freestyle battle in Nigeria.
At the event, Kevin Words emerged winner after delivering an incredible non-stop freestyle performance lasting 4 hours and 18 minutes. The battle was streamed live to fans, with major Nigerian media houses such as Silverbird Television (STV), Channels Television, Galaxy Television, and HipTV present to cover the show.
The show also featured guest appearances from notable artistes including Dremo and DJ Switch.
After building a strong foundation behind the scenes, Ochokwu Chekwube knew it was officially time for talented Vato, the rapper to step into the music scene as a recording artiste.
In 2022, he released of his debut single, ‘Free”. Since then, he has collaborated with several Nigerian and UK-based artistes, expanding his sound and reach across both markets.
Starting the year 2026 on a strong note, Vato released his latest single, ‘Man in the Mirror”, which is currently gaining mainstream attention and further establishing him as a rising force in the competitive music industry.
Recently speaking with a media music critic who was curious about his style of music and the origin of his stage name, Vato stated that he grew up listening to a lot of rap music and is naturally drawn to anything with good rhythm and a unique vibe.
“I create rap music infused with elements of soul and rhythm. My lyrics focus on self-expression and spreading positivity, aiming to connect with listeners in an authentic and meaningful way.”
On how his stage name became a part of him, he said it was formed from childhood connection with his brothers.
“I got the name from the movie Blood In Blood Out. I watched it with my brothers when we were younger, and we were so hyped afterward that we started calling each other “Vato,” which means “guy” or “dude.”
The full phrase, Vato Loco, is Mexican-American (Chicano) slang that translates to “crazy guy.” When I began my career journey, I chose to adopt the name because it represents the energy, brotherhood, and bold spirit that always stayed with me.”
Speaking further about his dreams, his goal is not just to make music, but to make a meaningful impact.
“I expect to refine my sound, expand my catalog, and build a strong, authentic brand that connects with people across different cultures and backgrounds. With consistency, hard work, and strategic collaborations, I see my music reaching wider audiences beyond my immediate environment.
“More importantly, I want my lyrics to continue spreading positive messages — inspiring hope, resilience, self-belief, and growth. I believe music is a powerful tool for change, and in the next five years, I aim to use my platform to influence lives positively while earning global recognition.
Ultimately, I see Vato becoming not just an artist, but a movement — known for quality music, powerful storytelling, and a message that resonates worldwide.”
Vato is originally from Anambra State, Nigeria. He was born and raised in Nigeria and is currently based in the United Kingdom.
With his witty talent in music, many would have expected that Vato would have studied music but he hold a Bachelor of Arts (BA) degree in Philosophy and furthered his education in the United Kingdom, where he obtained a Master’s degree in Producing for Film and Television.
With just a few released songs, Vato is gradually rising in the industry. If he continues to step up with the pace he came in, he will grow from an emerging artist into a globally recognized voice in the music industry.
