Greetings!
Whenever I think of traditional music and ancient songs, the first that comes to my mind is Late Chief Osita Osadebe's music, which I remember my dad and most people who love Highlife songs dancing to. His music is basically centered on Highlife from the Eastern part of Nigeria. One thing that got me liking his songs is that, even when they're traditional and performed in the Igbo language, they are played everywhere in Nigeria and danced to by all, even today. Despite his passing, the music lives on.
I keep wondering how powerful that kind of traditional music is. His songs are so rich that even when they're played at parties filled with today's youth, they dance to them with enthusiasm and style.
Osondi Owendi
"Osondi Owendi" was released way back before I was born, in the year 1984. This song won the hearts of everyone, which earned Osita Osadebe the title "King of Highlife." The song is rich with original displays of instruments like guitar, native drum, saxophone, and others. Although it's performed in the Igbo language, its beat and easily sung chorus are ones that everyone can dance to and sing along with.
While writing this, I went in search of a live performance of this song and found one that looked like it was recorded in ancient times. (Lol) I paid close attention to every bit of the video, and it was nothing but a display of originality and masterclass. The instrumentalists were very good. Take a look at the video below;
Tribute to Osita Osadebe with Modern Song
After his death, many artists took it upon themselves to pay tribute to the King of Highlife, and most of them centered their songs on one of his most popular tracks, "Osondi Owendi."
Osondi Owendi By MC Loph & Flavour
The first notable set of artists that came out were MC Loph and Flavour in 2012. Their song, titled "Osondi Owendi," was and still is a masterpiece. It was singable and danceable at the same time, turning what was supposed to be a melancholic song with moody vibes into a hot party track.
The song was done in a modern way with a touch of Highlife. Unfortunately, MC Loph, who directly owned the song, died a few years after gaining popularity with it. Flavour, the second artist, is still alive and keeping the vibes lively.
Osadebe by Jeoboy
The most recent tribute song to Osita Osadebe was done this year(2024) by Joeboy, titled "Osadebe."
You see, even after his long passing, people are still coming out to pay tribute to him. This song is done in a very modern way, yet it remains cool and collected.
In this song, he mentioned how calm and untroubled the man was when he was alive, and "Osondi Owendi" was highly emphasized.
Thanks for reading.
*This is my entry to Day 5 of #julyinleo *
Videos: YouTube
Thumbnail: Freepik and designed on Canva.