Peter Okoye (Mr P, P-Classic)
Whether they are channeling Michael Jackson, Usher, Chris Brown or Omarion, Psquare’s most vital part of their branding and performance has been their ability to dance. This dancing has been the crucial part of their visual representation, and Peter has it. He has the gift of body coordination, and the passion to push himself, beyond limits. Peter have driven the brand and their interaction with fans via his dancing.
From their earlier days, while Paul indulged in the art from a young age, it has always been Peter who had the natural flair for it. And over decades, he has given the team balance, and driven their growth on screen and onstage.
Psquare’s biggest music videos created an impact on pop culture because of the dancing. It’s on equal footing with the music. On ‘Senorita’, Peter’s dancing skills sealed the deal with making it one of their trademark videos. And as the years flew by and the projects dropped, he grew into the role with a consistency that is worthy of emulation. Songs such as ‘Shekini’, ‘Roll it’, and ‘Alingo’ became legendary hits because of Peter’s involvement in creating a visual experience for the world.
Psquare’s biggest video of their musical career is ‘Personally’. The project which dropped in June 2013, was a tribute to the late King of Pop, Michael Jackson. Peter grabbed the visual by the neck and ran with it. That was his dance magnum opus. The video currently has almost 75 million views.
Away from his moves, Peter gives the brand stylistic appreciation. He is a peacock and exhibitionist, who works hard at creating the sleek bad-boy image that everyone associates with Psquare. This image has been the sole reason why they appeal to a younger demographic. Which young boy does not want to have his good looks? Show me a young girl who doesn’t hold a fantasy about Peter, and all the naughty things they would do to him.
In music, Peter is light years behind Paul, but he contributes in the A&R process. Peter has an uncanny ability to spot hits. And when he feels excitement about a record, it almost always translates to excitement for fans. His recording process with Paul has over time diminished to hooks, bridges and adlibs. And although there have been campaigns to lower his contributions, he is still as relevant to the group and to the culture as when they started.
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