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Dr. Victor Abimbola Olaiya was a Nigerian trumpeter, composer, bandleader, and entrepreneur whose work helped establish highlife as a dominant force in West African popular music. Born in Calabar to a family from Ijesha-Ishu, Ekiti State, he turned away from an opportunity to study civil engineering at Howard University, choosing music instead.
After gaining experience with several orchestras, he founded 'The Cool Cats' in 1954, later renamed 'The All Stars Band.'
His orchestra entertained dignitaries during Queen Elizabeth II's visit, Nigeria's Independence celebrations,
and the country's Republican inauguration, where he also performed alongside Louis Armstrong.
Recordings such as "Baby Mi Da," "Omo Pupa," and "Iye Jemila" strengthened his reputation and influenced musicians including Fela Kuti and Tony Allen.
Honored with the 'Officer of the Order of the Niger (OON),' Olaiya remains a towering figure in Nigerian musical history.
He died on 12 February 2020 at the Lagos University Teaching Hospital at the age of 89.
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Record Label associated with Dr. Victor Abimbola Olaiya - past and current.