Prophetess Helen Nkume

Prophetess Helen Nkume was a remarkable Nigerian singer and songwriter born in 1943 in Amaekpu Ohafia, Abia State. She began her musical journey in the early 1970s, forming the YoungTimers Band and making a name for herself in the Highlife genre with several hit albums that resonated especially in southeastern Nigeria. Her music evolved over time, blending highlife with jazz, afrobeat, and Afro Funk, creating what some call "Countryside Afrobeat," a dance-friendly fusion unique to her style. By the early 1990s, Helen experienced a spiritual rebirth and transitioned into gospel music, becoming one of the most influential gospel artists in Southeastern Nigeria. Her albums from the 70s remain highly sought after and cherished for their unique sound and cultural significance. Helen Nkume passed away in the early 2000s, but her legacy continues through her timeless music and the deep impact she made on Nigerian gospel and Highlife music scenes.