The remarkable rise of KanBuja, a voice shaped by struggle and soul

In Afrobeats and Afro-fusion, few artists bring as much depth and authenticity to the music as KanBuja. Born Lakem Daniel Bankong, his journey from a remote village near Ikom in Cross River State to the global music scene is a powerful narrative of resilience, cultural pride, and transformation.

Raised by his grandmother in Dadi Village, KanBuja’s early years were steeped in traditional values, rural simplicity, and the tough lessons of village life. His grandmother, who became a maternal figure, passed away while he was still under her care, marking the beginning of a new, uncertain chapter. In 1998, he relocated to Kano, where he was reintroduced to city life in Yankaba and Badawa, communities that would shape his outlook and fuel his creativity.

At just 11, fate intervened—KanBuja was adopted by a British family and moved to the United Kingdom, opening the door to new opportunities while never letting go of his Nigerian identity. “I never forgot my roots,” he reflects. His uncles remained his early male role models, and his love for music, dancing, and rap followed him across continents.

His first studio experience came in 2006, when he recorded a track titled Motherland under the moniker DannyG. It was a tribute to his heritage and struggles—like being sent home from school in Kano due to unpaid fees—experiences that now inspire rather than shame him.

KanBuja’s music is a fusion of UK polish and Nigerian soul. He is a storyteller, a bridge between cultures, and a proud son of Africa whose past drives his purpose. As he continues to evolve, one thing remains clear: KanBuja’s voice is as real as the journey that shaped it.