Veteran musician Emma Ike Agu, better known as Allah-Bama, who left the shores of the country several years ago is back with a dance project called ‘Wajo’ which happens to be his latest music offering.
Wajo is being danced by youths across the globe, and Aguike said he’s in the country in continuation of the dance project.
He gained prominence in the country’s music scene in the early 90s, before embarking on self- imposed exile in America following the frustration and conspiracy that later became the order of the day in the music industry.
Speaking in a chat with us in Lagos, Aguike said he’s als due to release a 24-track album in August, this year, adding that going back to the bases will help to sustain our music culture.
“ When next I will be home, I will be doing the Igbo war dance, which showcases the Igbo culture in a very contemporaneous way,” Aguike added.
Since bursting onto the country’s music scene with his delightful Afro rhumba calypso-influenced dance rhythms and melodies, Aguike, who’s recognized as a bridge between the old and new generation of Nigerian singers has consistently evolved as a singer, producer and songwriter.
While he has always possessed exceptional talent in songwriting, the legendary singer has continually reinvented himself and surpassed his previous offerings with each new endeavor and musical style.
Following the current trends , where Afrobeats dominates the global stage, Aguike’s latest efforts showcases an irresistibly contemporary brand of world-class Afrobeats creations that establish him as a maestro within the genre. He’s currently in the country to continue the dance project of his latest offering “Wajo” which is enjoying global acclamation.
His classics from the 90s like the timeless ‘Wajo Similaya’ continue to serve as musical benchmarks and points of reference. He’s credited to possess exceptional skills in reading musical notes and mastering various instruments. Aguike’s proficiency in sequencing and orchestrating his songs using popular digital audio workstations such as Protools and Studiolive is second to none. As an award-winning music producer himself, he holds a prominent position within the industry. In the 90s, he achieved success by releasing his music through his own record label while embarking on a national tour with support from the French Cultural Center in Lagos. He stands out among Nigerian musicians who emerged during that era .
Aside from being recognized for his musical talents, Aguike is highly regarded as a media guru, who took several years off from playing music to create a successful media platform. His accomplishments include winning numerous awards for best media personality along with declining honorary doctorate awards for headlining the African Inaugural ball for President Obama in 2008. Furthermore, he was honored in Edmonton, Canada after headlining the African dance festival there.
With his return to the music scene, Aguike’s new Afrobeats songs are a testament to his timeless songwriting creativity. He’s not only here to reclaim his spot, but also, reunite with the music clan back home and showcase his new sounds that cut across all audiences across the globe.
