Senior Sergeant Habel Mwalumba KifotoKenya |1920| SwahiliHabel Mwalumba Kifoto was a senior sergeant with the 7th Battalion Kenya Rifles, an accountant, and the pioneer leader of the famous Kenyan military band Maroon Commandos. He led the band's incoming and outgoing members from its inception in 1970 until his retirement in 2002.
Barmani ChogeNigeria |1945| HausaSaadatu Aliyu, popularly known as Barmani Choge, was a renowned Hausa female singer from Nigeria. Born in Funtua, Katsina State, she had no formal education and got married at a young age. Despite societal constraints and patriarchy, Barmani rose to prominence with her daring music, often considered feminist and sometimes racy. Her music, which was mostly composed in the Amada genre, focused on women's emancipation, encouraging them to take up trades and criticizing those who refused to better their economic status. She also sang about her opposition to polygamy and celebrated motherhood in her song "Gwanne Ikon Allah." Barmani had a successful musical career for over 52 years and was considered the sole proprietress of the Amada music genre. She passed away on March 2, 2013.
Dele Taiwo aka Gentleman Dele TaiwoNigeria |1945| YorubaAsiwaju Dele Taiwo, also known as Dele Taiwo, is a well-known Nigerian juju musician. His musical talent began at a young age, prompting him to form The Young Shall Grow Band, subsequently rebranded Gentleman Dele Taiwo and His Funky Juju Band. He rose to prominence in 2010 after the release of his debut album, "Magic Moment," which received critical acclaim.
Hamidou OuedraogoBurkina Faso |1936| FrenchHamidou Ouedraogo, is a singer from Burkina-Faso known for his accompaniment to the Gumbe dance. From a young age, he showed a natural aptitude for mechanical work. However, his love for music was equally strong, and he taught himself to play the harmonica and accordion. In 1970, Hamidou's musical talent was finally recognized when he won first prize in a local music competition. In the mid-1970s, Hamidou made his first recording, marking the beginning of his professional music career.
Chief Lánre Oláifá OkemúyiwáNigeria |1920| YorubaChief Lánre Oláifá Okemúyiwá, is an acclaimed singer and songwriter from Nigeria, who has gained widespread recognition for his exceptional talent in Yoruba traditional music. Raised in Ibadan, his music is heavily influenced by the rich cultural heritage of his community. His unique sound is a fusion of traditional Yoruba music and contemporary genres, creating a distinctive style that has captured the hearts of numerous fans. With the release of several albums and singles, Chief Lánre has garnered recognition both in Nigeria and internationally. His exceptional songwriting and vocal abilities are showcased in some of his most popular songs such as "Odún Ifá," "Moreku," and "Moreja." He is widely regarded as one of the most influential Yoruba musicians of his generation.
Dr Sir WarriorNigeria |1947| IgboDr Sir Warrior, born Christogonus Ezebuiro Obinna, was a Nigerian highlife musician and composer. He's considered one of the pioneers of modern highlife music in Nigeria and was the lead vocalist of the famous music group, Oriental Brothers International Band. He released several albums with the band, including "Onyeoma Tochukwu Nna," which became a commercial success in the 1970s. Dr Sir Warrior's music was characterized by its unique blend of Igbo folklore and contemporary rhythms. Sadly, he passed away on June 2, 1999
