Nigerian Afrobeat sensation Mr. Dutch, born Bright Ukpabi, has made a striking return to the music scene with his latest release, Dodorima. Featuring the internationally acclaimed Soweto Gospel Choir and rising star Raybekah, the song is an anthem of gratitude, triumph, and resilience. It’s not just a musical release; it’s a reflection of Mr. Dutch’s personal journey, and a bold step toward his highly anticipated debut album, They Thought I Was Done.
The word Dodorima carries profound meaning in two Nigerian languages: in Edo, it translates to “gratitude,” while in Igbo, it symbolizes honesty, intelligence, and hard work. These themes are woven into the very fabric of the song, making it a celebration of perseverance and the fruits of labor. Mr. Dutch describes the collaboration as one of the highlights of his career, especially working with the legendary Soweto Gospel Choir.
“Working with the Soweto Gospel Choir brought me back to my roots,” Mr. Dutch shared. “It reminded me of my early days in church when I was a drummer collaborating with the choir. Their professionalism and talent are unmatched. When I shared my vision for Dodorima, they immediately understood and brought it to life.”
The choir’s contribution was nothing short of magical, according to the artist. “Watching them perform, harmonising across alto, soprano, tenor, and bass, was breathtaking. They didn’t just add their voices; they infused the song with spiritual power, making it more profound and impactful.
After a period of self-reflection and introspection, Mr. Dutch took a break from releasing new music. “I’ve been working on myself, rebranding, and undergoing a spiritual transformation,” he explained. This time away allowed him to focus on his upcoming album, which tells his personal life story. The album is a reflection of the challenges, growth, and lessons he’s encountered on his journey—both in music and life.
His collaboration with Raybekah, a TikTok sensation turned powerhouse vocalist, was another serendipitous moment. Mr. Dutch discovered Raybekah’s freestyles online in 2020 and invited her into the studio in 2021. Since then, they’ve been making music together, and her presence on Dodorima is a testament to her growing influence in the industry.
“I first saw Raybekah’s talent on TikTok, and when I brought her into the studio, I knew instantly we had something special,” he said. “Her voice adds an undeniable energy to the song, and it’s been incredible watching her rise.
As Mr. Dutch continues to make waves in the global music scene, he reflects on how far African music has come. “Seeing how our sound has traveled and how much recognition it’s receiving globally is truly inspiring,” he said. “It’s a great time to be a musician, and it motivates me to keep creating and contributing to our culture.
Looking ahead, Mr. Dutch has high hopes for Dodorima. “We want the song to change lives, be inspirational, and have a positive impact,” he said. “And of course, a Grammy wouldn’t hurt at all.
With a powerful team behind him and a mission to uplift and inspire, Mr. Dutch’s Dodorima is more than just a song—it’s a statement of the power of music, collaboration, and cultural pride.
