Buhari said the recognitions and awards received by the multi-talented entertainer King Sunny Ade over the years, including the national award, MFR, were well deserved.
By Jeffrey Agbo
President Muhammadu Buhari has sent his congratulatory message to juju music maestro and multi-instrumentalist, Chief Sunday Adegeye, better known as King Sunny Ade, who turns 76 on Thursday.
In the congratulatory message issued by his spokesman, Femi Adesina, on Tuesday in Abuja, the president said he rejoiced with the internationally renowned artiste ahead of his birthday.
Sunny Ade is the first Nigerian to be nominated for a Grammy Award in 1983 for the album, Synchro System, playing a significant role in the huge success of the country’s music industry.
The singer-songwriter formed his own backing band in 1967, eventually known as his African Beats. His music had influence across genres, including Hollywood, where his songs were featured in many movies.
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Buhari extolled the gifted songwriter, producer and visiting professor of music at the Obafemi Awolowo University in Ile-Ife for taking Nigeria’s local beats to the world.
He also lauded him for exporting the rich culture and placing instruments like the “talking drum’’ in the global spotlight for research and adaption.
Buhari said the recognitions and awards received by the multi-talented entertainer King Sunny Ade over the years, including the national award, MFR, were well deserved.
The president prayed for his good health, strength and grace of more creativity.
