Go Back

Bobby Benson

First Name: 

Other Names: 

Last Name: 

Stage Name: 

Country: 

Born: 

D.O.D: 

Primary Language: 

Other Languages: 

Bio

Bernard Olabinjo Benson, also known as "Bobby" Benson, was an influential Nigerian musician, entertainer, and comedian who left a lasting mark on the Nigerian music scene. He started off by playing standard big-band music before incorporating African themes into his music, resulting in the creation of his signature sound. One of his most famous hits, "Taxi Driver," became a timeless classic in West Africa and was covered by numerous other musicians. In addition to being a talented singer, he was also a gifted comedian and magician. He hosted a popular show on NTA, where he entertained audiences with his unique blend of stand-up comedy, music, and magic tricks. Benson's passing away was a great loss to the Nigerian music industry, but his legacy lives on.

Discography

Singles²

Niger Mambo1920 • singleTracks: 1

Taxi Driver1920 • singleTracks: 1

Label

Record Label associated with Bobby Benson - past and current.

Similar Artists

Kayefi OshaNigeria |1999| Yoruba

Lawal Deborah Funmilayo, popularly known as Kayefi, is a captivating Afro-soul artist celebrated for her distinctive fusion of African melodies and the traditional Ijala chant from Nigeria's Yoruba-speaking region. With her soul-stirring compositions and enchanting vocals, Kayefi has made a remarkable impact on the music industry. Collaborating with renowned UK producers and releasing her EP 'Crazy World,' she showcases her prowess as a songwriter and performer, connecting deeply with listeners. Kayefi's dedication to crafting meaningful and resonant music sets her apart, solidifying her position as a rising star in the Afro-soul movement and captivating audiences worldwide.

Guy Warren of GhanaGhana |1923| English

Guy Warren of Ghana, born in 1923 and passed away in 2008, was a renowned Ghanaian musician and cultural icon. He was popularly known as Kofi Ghanaba and was known for his exceptional skill in African drums and his unique blend of traditional African rhythms with Western jazz and blues. Warren was a pioneer of Afro-jazz music, and his innovative style inspired many musicians worldwide. He began his music career in Ghana with the Tempos dance band and later traveled to the United States where he played with jazz legends such as Charlie Parker, Max Roach, and Miles Davis. Apart from his music career, he was also an accomplished writer and visual artist. Warren's contribution to music and art remains celebrated.

Hassan HakmounMorocco |1963| Arabic

Hassan Hakmoun is a Moroccan musician based in New York, specializing in the distinctive Gnawa style of music. Born into a family of musicians, Hakmoun was immersed in the world of Gnawa from an early age. At just 4 years old, he began performing alongside revered Gnawa masters across Morocco. By the age of 14, he had already established his own musical ensemble and was a respected musician, participating in Gnawa lila ceremonies. Today, Hassan Hakmoun is widely recognized as the godfather of Gnawa music, a genre deeply rooted in Moroccan culture. In 1987, he made his U.S. debut at Lincoln Center and has since called New York City his home. His music continues to bridge cultures and captivate audiences around the world.

Ayub OgadaKenya |1956| Swahili

Job Seda, also known as Ayub Ogada was an iconic Kenyan singer, and famous for using Nyatiti, an eight-stringed traditional lyre. Ayub Ogada's choice in pursuing a career in music was influenced by his musical heritage--his parents and his tribe, Luo people of Kenya. He had his break when he became a co-founder of the African Heritage Band. In addition to music, Ayub was an actor. He acted in two Academic Award-winning movies. Sadly, he died on February 1, 2019 at age 63.

SomiRWANDA |1981| English

Somi is a singer, songwriter, and performer of Rwandan and Ugandan descent. With her powerful and emotive performances, Somi is known for her unique blend of African and jazz-influenced music. Her music is known to reflect her diverse cultural background and her experiences living in different parts of the world. Mentored by the late legendary jazz musician Hugh Masakela, Somi has released several albums, such as "Petite Afrique", "The Lagos Music Salon", "If The Rains Come First" and "Holy Room".

Ephat MujuruZimbabwe |1950| Xhosa

Ephat Mujuru, was a talented musician from Zimbabwe, who developed a deep love for the mbira at a young age, inspired by his grandfather Muchatera Mujuru. His music represented the struggle for Zimbabwe's independence and offered hope through the beautiful melodies of the mbira. His group Chaminuka's music, including the poignant "Guruswa," served as a symbol of restoration. Ephat was a master of the mbira dzavadzimu, skillfully blending tradition with innovation. He acted as a bridge between cultures, both as a performer and a teacher, even in the United States. His passion endured throughout the 1990s, playing a significant role in the evolution of Zimbabwean music. Despite his untimely passing in 2001, Ephat Mujuru's musical legacy lives on.

SalalaMadagascar |1983| Malagasy

Salala is an a capella vocal trio from the south of Madagascar. They perform a contemporary form of the traditional beko genre, which originates from the island's southern interior. In contrast to the traditional beko, a spiritual chant sung at funerals to honor the life of the deceased, Salala adapted the harmonies and style of the genre while shedding the religious purpose of the music by focusing the subject of their songs on matters of daily life. The group was founded by one of the singers, M'Bassa, in 1983, with singer Senge and a friend. All three performers belong to the southern Antandroy ethnic group and originate from a small village near Taolagnaro. Over the next ten years, the group gained in popularity in Madagascar, eventually winning the "Gasitsara Media Prize" for Best Band of the Year. Their first major domestic hit was "Salakao Raho Ene".

Herbie TsoaeliSouth Africa |1964| English

Born: November 28, 1964 (age 56 years), Cape Town, South Africa Bassist, Composer and Arranger, Herbie Tsoaeli is the 2013 Best Jazz Album South African Music Award winner, for his debut album African Time. Better known as “uMalume” by most of his fans in the South African jazz scene, following his hit “Hamba No Malume” from the African Time album, Herbie’s music is a combination of different elements of South African music, and jazz.

Aaron RimbuiKenya |1979| Swahili

Harun Kimathi Rimbui, professionally known as Aaron Rimbui, is multi-talented Kenyan jazz and world music pianist, keyboardist, bandleader, record producer, studio engineer, drummer, composer, festival curator, and radio host based in the United States. His musical journey began as a child and In 1990, he began playing the drums. He co-founded the band "Jazz it all" during this time. In 2000, he ventured into music production, with an internship at Bruce Odhiambo's Johari Clef Studio. He also served as the music director for Eric Wainaina and released his debut album, "Keys Of Life." He gained recognition in 2008 when he won the Best Jazz Collaboration Album at the Kwetu Mzanzi Jazz Awards. Throughout his career, he has toured extensively and performed at numerous concerts.