Otu Okon Ukam, known professionally as Reckon, is a Nigerian-American singer, songwriter, and record producer hailing from Cross River State, Nigeria. His music blends traditional African elements with global mainstream R&B/Soul, pop, and modern-day Afrobeats. Reckon believes that uniqueness is one’s greatest asset when pursuing goals, and it is his distinctiveness that sets him apart. Reckon bega
n singing in his church choir in his village. As a teenager, he performed at wedding receptions and local talent shows. He attended Community Secondary School, Adim, before transferring to Community Secondary Commercial School, Ibini Erei, where he graduated from high school. He commenced his singing career at the age of 16, writing and performing songs at social events in his hometown. He later formed a group called “KINGS SQUAD” with some friends, performing in the village before disbanding. In 2010, he relocated to Asaba, Delta State, to stay with his brother and worked as a factory worker. It wasn’t until 2011 that he began recording in studios. His first single, “Eyes on You,” was released in 2012 and gained popularity in Nigeria, leading to performances in local shows with his friends under the group “Hot Cash Entertainments and Earthquake Record’s” before they disbanded. In 2013, he moved to Lagos and worked as a security guard, using his free time to enter local talent shows. Although he auditioned for TECNO OWN THE STAGE in 2015, he did not make it to the final. a music competition featuring industry stars and various media teams. Guests included the three judges: Yemi Alade, Bien of Sauti Sol, MI, and Eva Alordiah. In 2016, he moved to Dubai, UAE, and worked as a factory worker before deciding to relocate to the United States of America in 2019. Reckon also joined the choir at Pot Of Gold Out Reach Ministry Church in Georgia. In 2021, he released “This Love” and “Turn By Turn,” followed by his first six-track EP titled “SELF-AFFIRMATION” in 2022, featuring songs such as “I Wanna Love You,” “Best Day,” “Without You,” “Far Away,” “Different Currencies,” and “Self-Affirmation.”
In January 2024, Reckon released his first single titled ‘Believe’ during an interview with Punch Newspaper. Speaking about the song with Sunday Scoop, he explained, ‘My new single, ‘Believe,’ aims to renew people’s faith and hope for 2024. It’s a message of encouragement, letting them know that good news and their prayers are on the way. All they need to do is believe it will happen.’
When asked about his greatest inspiration as an artist, Reckon expressed, ‘The people I’ve inspired with my music are my greatest achievements, bringing me joy. I aim to use my voice and music to unite people. Fela Anikulapo-Kuti’s boldness and music also influence me; he used his voice to advocate for those unable to speak for themselves.
