About
Musical Achievements
At the tender age of 8 years, Yannick Koffi’s musical talent secured him an endorsement with guitar manufacturer Fender.
The same year, Yannick appeared on Channel 7 as a Sunrise Busker and was invited to join the outstanding band SUPER KIDS in Japan, showcasing his talent on a TV show called “Unbelievable!”
Yannick went on to be selected by the Oprah Winfrey show in their “search for the world’s smartest & most talented kids”.
Yannick’s visit to his father’s native Ivory Coast in 2009 gave him the opportunity to perform in a series of concerts in Abidjan where his musical maturity touched the crowd and impressed many local and international entertainers. Yannick performed alongside acclaimed musicians such as Alpha Blondy, Ismael Isaac, Kadjeem, Desire Gadeau and Caribbean superstar Jacob Desvarieux from the group Kassav’.
Yannick’s musical journey later took him to the United States to share the stage with legendary reggae act, “Third World”, at the Home Run Music Festival in Florida. His talent was recognized by CBS News and broadcast on their network.
In May 2011, Yannick returned to the Ivory Coast in an official capacity to perform for 25 presidents including UN Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon for the investiture of the new Ivorian President Alasane Ouattara.
In 2012 Yannick reached the semi-finals of Australia’s Got Talent as part of the group Larger Than Life.
Since beginning his endorsement deal with FENDER, Yannick has enjoyed the use of two basses (including a Marcus Miller Signature model), two electric guitars (including an American Deluxe Stratocaster) and 3 amplifiers. Yannick is a multi-instrumentalist stretching his repertoire to playing the keyboard and drums.
Yannick's Style
Along the way, Yannick has been influenced by many music greats and genres, including that of his African born father.
In addition to Afro Caribbean, Reggae, Pop, and Jazz, Yannick admires the blues influenced music of John Mayer.
Yannick’s musical rendition of the song “Neon” secured him a scholarship and cemented his deep respect and admiration for John Mayer’s music.
Yannick is developing his own sound and style of music as a singer and songwriter writing rich music and touching lyrics which go well beyond his years.
Present and Future
Yannick attended the prestigious McDonald College of Performing Arts in Sydney where his musical passion and talent was recognised and further developed.
Yannick’s education perfectly compliments his home life. Born to a passionate, professional musician, Yannick’s first language is music.
Performing on stage, giving interviews and appearing on TV shows is second nature to this young virtuoso who is comfortable with just about any style of music from Blues to Rock to Afro-Caribbean tunes which run in his blood.
Yannick’s original songs have been professionally recorded and produced and turned into music video clips.
Current Projects
Yannick now plays with his trio/quartet where he focuses in on the blues/rock influences. He gigs around sydney, at venues and festivals.