One of Benue’s finest artists, David Abeke a.k.a David Abeks, has told TNT that he is “dying in silence.” He was lamenting the absence of patronage even among his “brothers.”
David Abeks, who has inspired generations of Tiv music artists for his pioneering works in giving Tiv music a Western appeal, said he has done his best.
“I’ve done my best for the Tiv. My songs will outlive me and continue to inspire and encourage others.
“So, if anybody would sit and insult me today, that Abeke has done music but has gotten nothing in return, they are not insulting Abeke; they are insulting the Tiv.
“If I do not get anything (in music) it is because the Tiv have refused to appreciate my efforts,” David Abeks said, adding: “I’ve taken Tiv music to the international level. I was the first to modernise Tiv music.”
With a total of about 30 songs, David Abeks launched his first album, Lost Affection, in 1993. He followed that up with “Tar ne taver yum” in 1998 and Refugee, 2003.
His most recent album is titled Peace and Dooshima (2024).
Those who should know say that David Abeks’ “Tar Ne Taver Yum” and “Come Tomorrow” reflect his struggles to reach stardom.
He appears to have lost his energy, resigned to the glory of his youthful days. The Benue-born, however, said he cannot kill himself because his “brothers have refused to help” him.
