ADVERTISEMENT

President Buhari congratulates legendary musician at 70

His music albums earned him many awards, including his first Grammy Award nomination in the folk/ethnic music category.

King Sunny Ade

Information on the felicitation is contained in a statement issued by Mr Femi Adesina, the president’s Special Adviser on Media and Publicity in Abuja on Wednesday.

Adesina stated that “President Buhari joins friends, family and fans of the multi-talented instrumentalist, songwriter and dancer in celebrating his remarkable life.”

The President noted with delight that Sunny Ade had been graced with numerous awards for outstanding performances, including nominations for the Grammy.

ADVERTISEMENT

Buhari added that the Septuagenarian had over the years brought pride to his country by mastering his art against all odds, taking the African musical genre to the global stage.

He, therefore, commended him for not only bringing joy to many hearts and homes through his music, but for serving as an inspiration and a mentor to upcoming artistes.

The President saluted “King Sunny Ade’s love for humanity, especially the less privileged, by setting up a foundation that caters for the needs of others.’’

He prayed that almighty God would grant “the versatile entertainer longer life, good health and more strength.”

Born on Sept. 22, 1946, Sunday Adeniyi, the King of Juju and popularly called the minister of enjoyment, had been actively in music since 1960s.

ADVERTISEMENT

His father was a Church organist, while his mother was a trader.

Ade left grammar school in Ondo under the pretence of going to University of Lagos but there in Lagos, his mercurial musical career started.

Sunny Ade’s musical sound evolved from the early days. His career begun with Moses Olaiya‘s Federal Rhythm Dandies, a highlife band, but he left to form a new band, The Green Spots in 1967.

Over the years, Sunny Adé’s band changed its name several times, first to African Beats and then to Golden Mercury, for various reasons ranging from changes in his music to business concerns.

In the 1970s and 1980s Adé embarked on a tour of America and Europe. His stage act was characterised by dexterous dancing steps and mastery of the guitar, which he played beautifully well to the admiration of the Americans and Europeans.

ADVERTISEMENT

His music albums earned him many awards, including his first Grammy Award nomination in the folk/ethnic music category.

JOIN OUR PULSE COMMUNITY!

Unblock notifications in browser settings.
ADVERTISEMENT

Eyewitness? Submit your stories now via social or:

Email: eyewitness@pulse.ng

Recommended articles

Spyro, Phyno deliver sensational blend of Afro Pop, Highlife with 'Shut Down'

Spyro, Phyno deliver sensational blend of Afro Pop, Highlife with 'Shut Down'

Oscar Heman-Ackah releases 'Finding Messiah' teaser — it's too good

Oscar Heman-Ackah releases 'Finding Messiah' teaser — it's too good

Sony’s Creators Convention redefines creative landscape for content creators

Sony’s Creators Convention redefines creative landscape for content creators

Eniola Ajao apologises for naming Bobrisky best-dressed female at movie premiere

Eniola Ajao apologises for naming Bobrisky best-dressed female at movie premiere

NFVCB wants to stop skits, Nollywood films from encouraging crimes

NFVCB wants to stop skits, Nollywood films from encouraging crimes

Ebuka Obi-Uchendu knew he'd marry his wife a month into their relationship

Ebuka Obi-Uchendu knew he'd marry his wife a month into their relationship

Candy Bleakz raises her artistry on 'Better Days' EP

Candy Bleakz raises her artistry on 'Better Days' EP

Whoopi Goldberg has confirmed a 'Sister Act 3' is in the works

Whoopi Goldberg has confirmed a 'Sister Act 3' is in the works

Mardeee set to release highly anticipated single 'AWAY' on February 23

Mardeee set to release highly anticipated single 'AWAY' on February 23

ADVERTISEMENT
ADVERTISEMENT