Tosin JegedeNigeria |1980| EnglishTosin Jegede is a talented Nigerian singer and songwriter. Back in the 1980s, she was a sensational child singer. At the tender age of five, she released her first album, "Children Arise," followed by two more albums, "Leaders of Tomorrow" in 1989 and "Children of Africa" in 1992. While pursuing her dreams, she later ventured to the UK, where she earned a degree in Business Decision and Analysis from the prestigious University of Bristol and returned to her homeland in 2008. A passionate advocate for children's education and literacy, she founded the Tosin Jegede Foundation and initiated the "One Book One Child" project, striving to enhance learning opportunities for African children, particularly in Nigeria.
Dr. Paa BoboGhana |1951| EweKwaku Agyapong Danemah, better known as Dr. Paa Bobo, was a revered Ghanaian highlife musician. Born into a family with a deep musical heritage, Paa Bobo's love for music blossomed early in life. During the 1970s, he embarked on his musical journey as a member of the renowned Gye Nyame band, a beloved ensemble in Ghana. Eventually, he ventured out to establish his own musical group, Sweet Talks band, and in 1982, they unveiled their debut single "Onyame Nkrabea". Throughout his illustrious career, Dr. Paa Bobo treated the world to a plethora of albums, each a testament to his extraordinary talent. His music transcended borders. Sadly, his life was tragically cut short in 2013, but his musical legacy endures, cherished by dedicated fans worldwide.
Queen Salawa AbeniNigeria |1961| YorubaQueen Salawa Abeni, born Salawa Abeni Alidu, is a Nigerian singer-songwriter, and actress. Salawa Abeni is considered one of the pioneers of Waka music, a genre that blends traditional Yoruba music with modern pop music. She released her first album, "Late General Murtala Ramat Mohammed," in 1976 and has since released numerous albums. Salawa Abeni has won several awards for her works and has acted in Nollywood movies. She's also a cultural ambassador for her role in promoting Nigerian music and culture.
Mike Ejeagha (Gentleman Mike Ejeagha)Nigeria |1932| IgboMike Ejeagha, a.k.a Gentleman Mike Ejeagha, is a renowned Nigerian folklorist, songwriter and musician. He started his career in music in the mid-20th century and has been a prominent figure in the evolution of Igbo music for over six decades. Ejeagha's first hit was in 1960, the year of Nigeria's independence and he has contributed over 300 recordings to the National Archives of Nigeria, produced during his fieldwork investigating Igbo folklore and highlife music. He remains an influential figure in Nigerian music industry.
Ahmed FakrounLibya |1953| ArabicWith roots in Benghazi, Libya, Ahmed Fakroun, a name that serves as his birth name and stage name, is a multi-instrumentalist, singer-songwriter, composer, and the founder of contemporary Arab World Music. His love for music began when he was young, and through the years he has grown as a musician by mastering a variety of instruments and exploring music from around the globe. He has performed on stage with well-known musicians all around the world and has garnered international renown.
Madagascar SlimMadagascar |1956| MalagasyMadagascar Slim, born Randriamananjara Radofa Besata Jean Longin, is a skilled Canadian-Malagasy folk and blues guitarist renowned for his exceptional guitar abilities. His music is a captivating fusion of folk, blues, and Madagascar's salegy, showcasing a unique blend of cultural influences. Over his career, he's crafted numerous albums and graced stages globally, garnering recognition and accolades for his dedication and talent. With his infectious upbeat songs and soulful guitar prowess, Madagascar Slim leaves an enduring mark on every audience he engages.
Smart NkansahGhana |1966| GaSmart Nkansah is a Ghanaian veteran highlife singer and guitarist and the founder of Sweet Talks Band. He had difficulty establishing himself because he grew up in a family that did not support his music career. His excellent guitar skills caught the attention of Mr Yamoah, who later absorbed him into his band. Smart later worked briefly with prominent highlife musicians before forming the Sweet Talks Band, which is best known for their debut hit album, Adam & Eve.
