1. Fela Kuti
Olufela Olusegun Oludotun Ransome-Kuti, popularly known as Fela is the pioneer of Afrobeat music in Nigeria and Africa. He was a human rights activist who used his music to publicly criticize the (then) corrupt military government and also to fight European cultural imperialism as he supported traditional African religions and lifestyles. He is referred to as one of Africa’s most challenging and charismatic music performers.
2. King Sunny Ade
King Sunday Ade is a songwriter and multi-instrumentalist, he is known as one of the most influential Afro-juju musicians. He formed the group called African Beats which he later changed the name to Golden Mercury whose music was characterized by the use of the Yoruba talking drum. With his Afro genre of music, King Sunny became the first African to be nominated twice for a Grammy.
#3. Oliver De Coque
Chief Oliver Sunday Akanite popularly known as Oliver De Coque was a Nigerian guitarist and one of Africa’s most prolific recording artists. He is arguably one of the most famous Nigerian Igbo Highlife musicians and guitarists. He formed his band group called Ogene sound super of Africa, which blended modern high life and traditional Igbo music
4. Sir Victor Uwaifo
Sir Victor Uwaifo is a Nigerian musician, University lecturer, and the first Honorable Commissioner for Arts, Culture, and Tourism in Nigeria. He is regarded as one of the pioneers of Highlife music in Nigeria. The highly educated singer formed his band called the Cool Cats in 1954 and renamed the group to All-Stars Band in 1963.
#5. Fatai Rolling Dollar
Prince Olayiwola Fatai Olagunju is a foremost Nigeria Juju and highlife musician whose trademark music was characterized by the use of guitar. He formed his eight-man band group called African Rhythm Band in 1957 and together they produced one of his greatest hit tracks called “Won Kere Si Number Wa.” He once had the famous Ebenezer Obey in his band group and mentored him.
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