“Tears at the Grave: YoungJoseph Honors His Mentor, Says the Spirit of King Robert Ebizimor Still Lives in Ijaw Music”
By Passman Akpos
A young traditional musician in the Ijaw music scene, popularly known as YoungJoseph, has paid an emotional tribute to his late mentor and benefactor, Chief Sir Joseph Ekeremieye, during a solemn visit to the elder’s resting place.
In a heartfelt message shared after the visit, the rising artist described the moment as one of deep reflection and gratitude, recalling the pivotal role the late mentor played in shaping his journey in the music industry.
“Some visits are heavy on the heart, and today was one of them,” YoungJoseph wrote. “I went to the resting place of my mentor, my Godfather, and a man whose impact on my life can never be forgotten — Late Chief Sir Joseph Ekeremieye.”
According to the young musician, the late Ekeremieye recognized his potential long before he became known in the Ijaw music circle. He said the elder not only welcomed him into the industry but also patiently guided and nurtured his talent in its early stages.
YoungJoseph noted that the mentorship he received helped lay the foundation for the musician he is becoming today.
“Long before many people knew my name in the music circle, he saw something in me. He welcomed me, guided me, and patiently nurtured my talent,” he said. “In many ways, he did not just mentor me; he helped build the foundation of the musician I am becoming today.”
Standing at the graveside, the artist said he was overwhelmed with emotion as he reflected on the absence of the man who helped shape his musical path.
“Standing there today was emotional, knowing that the man who helped shape my path is no longer here with us. But even in his absence, his teachings and encouragement still live on in my journey,” he added.
The tribute comes shortly after Tarakirivoice previously reported YoungJoseph’s emotional visit to the grave of legendary Ijaw music icon King Robert Ebizimor, where the young performer vowed to keep the cultural legacy of Ijaw music alive.
During that earlier visit, the artist described the late Ebizimor as a cultural pathfinder whose music preserved the history, struggles, and identity of the Ijaw people across generations.
Observers within the Niger Delta cultural community say the young musician’s repeated tributes to late icons reflect a growing commitment among emerging artists to protect and promote traditional Ijaw music.
Concluding his message, YoungJoseph offered prayers for his late mentor while promising to carry forward the lessons he received.
“Chief, your impact on my life and music will never be forgotten. I will always carry the lessons you gave me. May your noble soul continue to rest in perfect peace.”
Cultural advocates say such tributes highlight the deep mentor–protégé relationships that have historically shaped the development of traditional music across the Niger Delta. 🎶
