The Nigerian music industry is in deep mourning following the passing of Mike Ejeagha, a revered highlife musician and folklorist, who died on Friday night at the age of 95. Ejeagha’s death was confirmed by his eldest son, Emma Ejeagha, during a telephone conversation with Vanguard. The iconic artist passed away around 8 p.m. at the 32 Garrison Hospital in Enugu after battling a prolonged illness.
Mike Ejeagha’s remarkable career spanned several decades, during which he became a cultural beacon, known for his extraordinary ability to weave Igbo folklore, proverbs, and oral traditions into captivating musical narratives. His unique artistry not only entertained but also educated generations of Nigerians, preserving the nuances of Igbo culture and language at a time when modernization threatened traditional art forms.
Ejeagha’s music, characterized by its rich storytelling and deep cultural resonance, dominated Nigerian airwaves in the 1980s, earning him a distinguished place in the nation’s cultural history. His songs were more than just melodies; they were vessels of wisdom, history, and moral lessons that connected listeners to their roots. This dedication to preserving oral tradition through highlife music has made his work an invaluable heritage for both present and future generations.
Among his many celebrated works, the track “Gwogwogwo” stands out as one of his most iconic songs. The song experienced a revival in popularity last year when Brian Jotter, a well-known stand-up comedian and skitmaker, remixed it, introducing Ejeagha’s timeless music to a younger audience. This resurgence sparked renewed interest in Mike Ejeagha’s vast musical catalogue, highlighting the enduring relevance of his contributions to Nigerian music and culture.
Tributes have since poured in from all corners of the country. Fans, cultural organizations, fellow musicians, and admirers have all expressed their sorrow and paid homage to Ejeagha’s profound impact on traditional music. Many have lauded him as a custodian of oral tradition and a guardian of cultural identity, whose work helped sustain the Igbo language and heritage through the power of song.
As Nigeria bids farewell to this legendary figure, funeral arrangements are expected to be announced by the family in the coming days. Mike Ejeagha’s passing marks the end of an era, but his legacy will undoubtedly continue to inspire and influence the preservation of indigenous music and culture for years to come.
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