In this post, Platinum Times Nigeria delves into the profile and career achievements of Nigerian singer, Ric Hassani.
Ric Hassani, whose real name is Ikechukwu Eric Ahiauzu, is a talented Nigerian singer, songwriter, and musician.
He will be officiating as one of the Judges of the 9th edition of the reality TV show, Nigerian Idol which will kick start on 21st April, 2024.
He is known for his unique blend of R&B, pop, and African genres, which have earned him a loyal fan base both within and outside Nigeria.
He is an alumni of the esteemed Covenant University.
Profile summary
Name: Ikechukwu Eric Ahiauzu
Other names: Ric Hassani, Rico slim
Date of birth: 6th January, 1989
Place of birth: Port Harcourt, Rivers State, Nigeria
Education: Covenant University
Relationship status: single
Career: Musician
Birth
Ric Hassani was born on 6th January 1989, in Port Harcourt Nigeria to Prof Augustine and Prof. Blessing Ahiauzu.
His father was the Vice-Chancellor of the Rivers State University of Science and Technology.
The singer grew up with love and support for his musical career from his parents.
Education
He grew up in Port Harcourt where he had his elementary education before proceeding to Gruntvig International Secondary School in Anambra State for his secondary education.
He further obtained his first degree from the prestigious Covenant University in Otta, Ogun State and afterwards a Master’s degree in Energy Economics from the University of Surrey.
Music career
His passion for singing began from a tender age and this propelled him to pursuing a career in music.
Ric Hassani gained public recognition in 2013 with the release of his debut single “Dance Dance Baby”.
He gained further recognition with the release of his debut album “The African Gentleman” in 2016, which featured hit songs like “Gentleman” and “Only You.”
In 2021, he released another hit track, “Thunder Fire You” a song which trended in music platforms and caught the attention of National Broadcasting Commission (NBC), who banned the song from airing on radio stations.
The music star also embarked on a global music tour in 2019 where he visited The United States, France, Mayotte, Malawi, Cameron, Honduras, Mauritius, and South America.
He released his sophomore album “The Prince I Became” 26th of February, 2021 and this was accompanied by his deluxe album that premiered on the 14th of May 2021.
In April 2023, he released his first set of official singles of the year, “Amina” and “The One” in one day.
Ric Hassani has over the years collaborated with various artists and producers in the Nigerian music industry to release soundtracks which are loved and chorused by everyone.
Personal life
The Afropop singer is best described as a style icon owing to his stunning looks and fashion sense.
He is however still single and was rumored to be in a relationship with fellow singer Waje, but the singer openly debunked this news.
Awards
In 2016, he was nominated in three categories at the All Africa Music Awards: Best Artiste in African R&B and Soul, Video of the Year, and Most Promising Artiste.
He also received two nominations at The Headies 2016, including Best Alternative Song for “Gentleman”.
In December 2018, the Falz and Olamide-assisted “Believe” won the Best Collaboration at the Galaxy Music Awards.
Net worth
Ric Hassani’s net worth is estimated to be about $600,000.
