On July 30, 2024, Nigeria mourned the loss of one of its most cherished entertainers, Onyeka Onwenu. Onyeka’s passing marks a national loss. This post will celebrate the iconic and phenomenal Onyeka Onwenu, Known for her powerful voice, activism, and contributions to social change.
Early Life
Madam Onyeka Onwenu was born on January 31, 1952, an indigene of Arondizuogu, Imo state, Nigeria. A graduate of international relations and communications from Wellesley College in Massachusetts, she also earned an MA in media studies from the New School for Social Research, New York, USA. She has been quoted as saying that she returned to Nigeria because she was tired of waiting for the change she wanted to see in her country. Indeed, living true to the Igbo adage says “It is where one lives that they improve”. Madam Onwenu not only talked the talk but also embodied her advocacy through her art and intellectual contributions.
Career Beginnings
Upon her return to Nigeria, Onyeka Onwenu’s first job was with the Nigerian Television Authority. She lent her voice and pen to social causes and made a documentary film titled Nigeria: A Squandering of Riches, a documentary that remains relevant today.
Music Career
Her music career began in the early 1980s with her album ‘For the Love of You’. She went on to release numerous albums, and multiple collaborations and became an award-winning actress. Onyeka Onwenu has released songs across various genres including pop, blues, highlife, and gospel. The success of her song “One Love”, which was widely received across the country made her a household name.
Influence on the Music Industry
In 2000, she advocated for her rights to royalties from the broadcast of her music by the Nigerian Television Authority. She did this by staging a hunger protest at the gates of the broadcasting corporation in Lagos. Her actions did not go unnoticed but drew significant public attention and the support of her fellow artists. In her words “I couldn’t rationalize investing and having a recording and not making any money out of it”. She staged her hunger strike for six days and only called it off when she reached an agreement with the corporation.
Top 5 songs
Ekwe
The first time I heard “Ekwe” was in a Nigerian home movie, where the actress used it to express an exaggerated show of jest and pettiness. Intrigued, I went looking for the song. It turns out it was one of those scenarios where the lyrics were taken out of context for light humor. “Ekwe” is a story of love and rejection, with a lively beat and infectious rhythm incorporating traditional and contemporary instruments.
The 1984 song, draws from a sense of joy and fun, so much so that we lose sight of the fact that “Ekwe” is about a man whose love advances are being vehemently rejected. Onyeka Onwenu was a profound storyteller, using music as her medium of choice. She gave us songs that encapsulated the spirit of celebration. “Ekwe” is a fusion of cultural elements into modern music, making it relatable to a wide audience.
One Love
Released in 1986, “One Love” is a popular favorite. Its socially conscious lyrics advocate peace, unity, and tolerance, and it was widely received by many. In a country that is a melting pot of ethnically and religiously diverse people, “One Love” is timeless in its message of unity and togetherness—a truly enduring piece of art. The song is a call to action, asking that people come together despite their differences. Onyeka’s performance imbues the song with a sense of hope and inspiration.
You and I
Originally released in 1986 and re-recorded in 2001, “You and I” is arguably the most popular love song oldies in Nigeria. The song enjoyed frequent play at weddings and events for a significant period after its release. It speaks of an enduring love, conveyed through Onyeka Onwenu’s soulful voice. Her emotive delivery and the song’s timeless melody make it a cherished piece in her discography.
Iyogogo
This song was also released in 1984, as part of the album ‘In the Morning Light’. Like most of Onyeka Onwenu’s work, the song is a fusion of traditional Nigerian music with contemporary sounds, embellished with a catchy chorus that stays on your lips long after the music ends. It is a testament to Onyeka Onwenu’s versatility and commitment to promoting Nigerian traditional sounds through her music. “Iyogogo” draws in its listeners with its rhythmic beat calling them to a joyous celebration across generations.
Wait for me
This song became popular for its unique sound and meaningful lyrics. The legendary King Sunny Ade and Onyeka Onwenu collaborated on this song. The song was one half of a pair advocating for planned parenting and was released in 1989. It speaks of love, patience, and commitment, delivered through a harmonious blend of voices and melodic instrumentation. The collaboration between these music legends brought widespread acclaim. Their message appealed to a broad audience, and together they made a timeless classic.
Conclusion
The legacy of Onyeka Onwenu is one of profound impact, leaving an indelible footprint on the Nigerian entertainment industry and embodying her enduring advocacy for social change. Our top picks illustrate the versatility of her talents, with each song delivering unique messages and melodies that will continue to resonate with audiences for years to come.
