Obaseki Mourns as Edo Music Maestro Dies

Foremost Edo-born highlife musician, Ambassador Osayomore Joseph yesterday passed away.

Until his death, he was a prolific singer and one of Edo State’s prominent sons.

Joseph was born in Ugha village near Benin City, Edo State Nigeria. He is one of the early pioneers of African popular Highlife music.

His educational, anti-corruption and government critical lyrics sung in Edo but also in Pidgin English reached a wide audience worldwide.

The Chairman of Copyright Society of Nigeria (COSON), Chief Tony Okoroji confirmed his passage of death of the music maestro.

“The late Ulele Power King as he was known by his many fans was my friend. There is no doubt that the unforgettable Osayomore Joseph came, saw and conquered.

“Osayomore may have travelled but his Ulele Power sound will continue to boom in the hearts of the many who love him.”

Okoroji said: “I have just learnt of the passing on of the very vibrant and effervescent music maestro with his roots in the ancient Benin kingdom, the great Osayomore Joseph.”

In a statement by his Special Adviser on the Media, Crusoe Osagie, Edo State Governor, Mr. Godwin Obaseki, has mourned the passing of music maestro, Osayomore Joseph.

Obaseki described the late Osayomore as an enigmatic and versatile musician.

He said: “I am deeply saddened by the news of the passing of music maestro, Ambassador Osayomore Joseph, who took the music world by storm with his talent and exported the Benin culture to the world.”

“Osayomore Joseph was an enigmatic and versatile musician, who spread didactic messages with his soulful and sonorous voice.”

“His contribution to the creative industry in Edo State is as remarkable as it is transformational. He was a crucial voice in the quest to make society better and more livable with his music, which focused on serious issues.

“His long music career, which started in the 1970s, was very productive and enriched the lives of many. The boldness and candour enmeshed in his rhythmic melodies earned him local and international acclaim.”

“I commiserate with the Osayomore family, fans and friends of the illustrious musician and pray that God will grant all the fortitude to bear this irreparable loss.”