Tobechukwu Melvin Okafor (born December 30, 1979), professionally known as Illbliss, is a renowned Nigerian rapper, sound producer, actor, and music executive. As of November 2023, he is 44 years old.
Illbliss is the founder and CEO of The Goretti Company, a music label credited with launching the careers of Nigerian music stars Chidinma and Phyno. Since rising to fame in 2008, he has grown into a music icon in the Nigerian entertainment industry.
At the inaugural Soundcity Music Video Awards in 2008, Illbliss won the Best Hip-hop Video category for his breakout single, U Go Wound O. The following year, he released his critically acclaimed debut studio album, Dat Ibo Boy. His latest album, Illy Chapo X, was released in 2020 during the pandemic, continuing his legacy as a rap pioneer.
Early Life
Illbliss was born to Igbo parents on December 30, 1979, in Enugu State, Nigeria. Raised in a Catholic household, he spent his formative years in Southeast Nigeria, deeply immersed in Igbo traditions and culture. Growing up, he learned to speak Igbo fluently while being equally proficient in English, which he was taught in school.
During his childhood, Illbliss was exposed to a variety of musical genres, from Igbo highlife and folklore to Western rap and Afrobeat legends like Fela Kuti, Sonny Okosun, and Sir Shina Peters. This rich musical upbringing influenced his decision to pursue a career in music.
Illbliss initially wrote and performed rap lyrics in English but later transitioned to Igbo rap to better connect with his local audience. This distinctive style set him apart and became his trademark.
Education
Coming from a family that prioritized education, Illbliss attended top public schools in Southeast Nigeria, where he earned his First School Leaving Certificate and West African School Certificate. He later obtained a Bachelor’s degree from a prestigious university in the region, graduating with commendable grades after four years.
Career
Illbliss began his music career during his university days, performing at campus events and gaining a fanbase among his peers. After graduating, he fully committed to music, recording songs at a friend’s studio. His breakthrough came with the release of U Go Wound O, a hit single that catapulted him into the limelight.
The success of the song earned him national recognition and gigs across Nigeria. Its music video won the Best Hip-hop Music Video award at the 2008 Soundcity Music Video Awards. Illbliss followed up with his debut studio album, Dat Ibo Boy, in 2009, which achieved commercial success.
In 2010, he founded The Goretti Company, a record label and talent management firm. This venture solidified his status as a top music executive, launching the careers of artists like Phyno and Chidinma. Over the years, Illbliss has released numerous successful albums, including:
- Oga Boss
- Powerful
- Illygaty:7057
- Illy Bomaye
- IllyZilla (a collaboration with Teck Zilla)
In 2020, his seventh album, Illy Chapo X, was nominated for Best Rap Album at The Headies.
Acting Career
Illbliss made his acting debut in the Nigerian blockbuster movie King of Boys, where he played the role of a mafia boss, Odogwu Malay. His performance earned widespread acclaim, and he reprised the role in the film’s sequel, King of Boys 2.
Personal Life
Nicknamed Oga Boss after his 2012 sophomore album, Illbliss is an influential figure in the Nigerian music industry. He is married to Munachiso Ejiofor, whom he wed in 2009, and their union is blessed with children. He owns real estate properties and luxurious cars and splits his time between Lagos and Southeast Nigeria.
Illbliss is also a brand ambassador for Hero Lager Beer and a managing partner at Capital Hills Records, which he co-owns with Clarence Peters.
Social Media
Illbliss maintains a strong social media presence with over 470,000 followers on Instagram.
- Instagram: @illblissgoretti
- Twitter: @illblissgoretti
Net Worth
Illbliss has diversified his income streams over the years, earning from music, acting, endorsements, and business ventures. His net worth is estimated at $7–$10 million.
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