Greetings!
One of the greatest facts about good music is that it doesn’t die; it lives on, passing from one generation to another. This continues indefinitely, perhaps until the world ends—if such a thing ever happens. And even if it does, I believe these songs will still be used in other world...Ofcourse the spirits of the legend are there. Lol
I remember growing up and hearing my dad play very old songs, even though the songwriters had long passed away. Interestingly, I learned that many of these songs were handed down to them from their fathers and forefathers. What about you? Do you have some good songs you plan to pass down to your children? Think about it.
Yesterday, August 30th, 2024, one of the greatest songwriters in Nigeria and Africa as a whole, ONYEKA ONWENU was laid to rest. The event was the talk of the country, even though her songs were from the 80s & 90s.
It’s fascinating—most of us weren’t born when she was at the height of her career, but because of the authenticity of her songs, we grew up listening to them as if they were from our own time. That’s the beauty of good music! Just a definition of timelessness
"Iyogogo!"
This is one of her biggest hits, and every time it plays, it has this ear-tickling sound that resonates with those who love Highlife music. It has a way of making someone reflect on the days of old. I’ve known this song since I was a child because it was frequently played by the older generation, and often on the radio, which my dad was very fond of.
The song was released in the mid-80s, and even at that time, it spoke of the good old days. Can you imagine a “better old days” even back in those years? The earlier generations truly enjoyed life.
"Ekwe!"
This song became almost like an anthem among the Igbos. Whenever it played, the part where “Ekwe” is screamed couldn’t be ignored, showcasing just how much the song was valued.
I recently watched one of her last performances of this song, and even among Gen Zs, the "Ekwe" was shouted by almost everyone in attendance. It was such a lovely moment.
The beat of this song is a fusion of two styles: the Highlife drum and the rock music beat, making it a perfect party song. It was a very fun song for those in the 80s and 90s, and imagining how they partied to this song back in the day is simply delightful.
"You and I!"
This is one song I picked up from a movie when I was growing up. Oh, before I forget, Onyeka Onwenu wasn't just a musician; she was also a veteran actress in Nollywood, and we enjoyed many of her movies back then. What a legend!
I can’t recall the specific movie from my early childhood where this song was used as the theme song, though it wasn’t the main song but a cover. It was extensively highlighted in the movie, especially during the emotional scenes that almost made us cry.
This song has such well-known lyrics that many people can sing it without even realizing it’s from this legendary artist.
Just imagine how music from the 80s and 90s continues to live with us, and will keep living on because we’re going to pass it to the next generation as well. That’s the beauty of good music!
May the soul of Onyeka Onwenu rest in peace.
Thanks for reading.
Videos were taken from YouTube.
