Beloved Nigerian singer, songwriter, and actress Onyeka Onwenu has passed away at the age of 72. Her death is said to have occurred after she slumped doing what she loved while performing at a gathering in Lagos. Rushed to a hospital, sadly, the doctors could not revive her.
As we mourn the loss of this iconic figure, let’s reflect on five songs that cemented her status as a legend in Nigerian music:
1. “One Love” – This powerful anthem of unity resonated with audiences across Nigeria and beyond. With its message of peace and togetherness, “One Love” became an enduring soundtrack on Nigerian radio and TV stations, showcasing Onwenu’s ability to address social issues through her music.
2. “Wait for Me” (featuring Sunny Ade) – This duet with Grammy-nominated Juju music legend King Sunny Ade reflects Onwenu’s popularity and commercial success. At her peak in the 1980s, she was one of Nigeria’s biggest pop stars, and this collaboration further solidified her status in the industry.
3. “You and I” – A beautiful love song that blends funk and jazz influences with Nigerian pop. Onwenu masterfully deploys both pidgin and Igbo languages, creating a classic that remains a favourite and continues to captivate listeners decades after its release.
4. “Iyogogo” – This beautiful folk love song showcases Onwenu’s versatility and commitment to her cultural roots. In it, she expresses the depth of her love while demanding total commitment from her lover. The song’s enduring appeal is evident in P-Square’s interpretation in their single “Bank Alert.”
5. “Ekwe” – Named after a traditional Igbo instrument, this hit demonstrated Onwenu’s skill in fusing highlife with modern pop sensibilities. The song tells the story of a relentless suitor pursuing an uninterested damsel, highlighting Onwenu’s storytelling abilities and her knack for blending traditional and contemporary sounds.
Throughout her four-decade career, Onyeka Onwenu, often referred to as the “Elegant Stallion,” consistently used her platform to address both social and political issues.
Her other great songs are “Bia Nulu,” “Dancing in the sun,” “Alelluya” and a host of others.
Her unique blend of musical styles created a sound that was distinctly her own, paving the way for future female artistes in the Nigerian music industry.
Onwenu’s impact extended beyond music into public service, acting and civil society work. Her recent plans to create a film about her journey and the evolution of Nigerian music will now serve as a poignant final chapter in her storied legacy.
As fans and fellow artistes mourn her passing, Onyeka Onwenu’s influence on Nigerian music and culture remains indelible. Death may have been silenced but the melodies and messages she leaves behind will continue to inspire generations to come.