Music as a Two Way Street: Nelly's Echo Performs in Parks Cafe

Nelson Emokpae on lead vocals and guitar, along with
David Solomon playing a box drum. 

Neither a band nor a solo artist, Nelly’s Echo is a musical experience; one that students got to take part in today in the Parks Cafe.

Singer and songwriter Nelson Emokpae, who formed Nelly’s Echo, is known for his appearance on “The Voice,” and for his soulful and fun acoustic pop music. According to their website, Nelly’s Echo “originates from the premise that music is a two way street.” “Nelly” refers to Emokpae, who is the lead singer and guitarist, while the “Echo” refers to the response of the audience and their appreciation of the music.

Today Nelly’s Echo included Emokpae and fellow musician David Solomon, who accompanied Emokpae on drums. They entertained the students of Parks Cafe for an hour, playing a variation of music, from upbeat pop sounding songs, to more mellow ballads.

Nelson Emokpae, a relaxed performer, often
improvised in his songs as a way to
connect with the audience. 

“There’s too much negativity, there’s too much destitution out there in the world and my music is about hope and positivity and that's what I try to convey with my music. I want to leave everyone that I reach better because of the music, so that's my message,” said Emokpae.

Today was Emokpae’s second time playing for EvCC, and he said each time the students have been well responsive and fun to play for.

“EvCC has always been very gracious and nice and receptive to me,” said Emokpae after his performance. “I feel very good.”

“The students seemed to really enjoy it, that made it a lot more fun to see everyone out smiling and dancing and clapping for us,” said Solomon. “It definitely made it a lot more fun.”









Check out this video of the Nelly's Echo song "If I were the king," and take a look at the Nelly's Echo website. 



Story by Ratna Wahyuningsih and Lily Haight