AfroStreet Celebrates Bongos Ikwue at 82AfroStreet is proud to celebrate the 82nd birthday of the legendary Bongos Ikwue, a pioneering figure in Nigerian music.

AfroStreet Celebrates Bongos Ikwue at 82

AfroStreet is proud to celebrate the 82nd birthday of the legendary Bongos Ikwue, a pioneering figure in Nigerian music.

Bongos Ikwue was born on June 6, 1942, in Otukpo, Benue State, in east-central Nigeria, into the Idoma ethnic group. Growing up in a rural setting with his father, a farmer, Bongos was deeply influenced by the simple yet rich experiences of country life. From a young age, he developed a passion for music, immersing himself in a diverse range of sounds. He absorbed the traditional music and folk tales of the Idoma people, as well as various American genres, including gospel, country, blues, jazz, and R&B. He also took in Cuban and Caribbean styles from the radio and his brother’s record collection, alongside a myriad of popular African musical forms.

Despite his early love for music, Bongos' parents pushed him to pursue a conventional profession. They sent him to school, where he continued to hone his songwriting skills. He formed his first band, the Cubana Boys, and later, while studying engineering at Ahmadu Bello University in Zaria, he established another band, the UniBello Brothers, and a folk group. He even learned Irish songs from an expatriate lecturer, showcasing his eclectic taste and adaptability.

In 1967, Bongos formed Bongos & The Groovies, a band that quickly rose to fame with its distinctive and original Nigerian pop style. Bongos’ music was unique and did not follow any particular artist or genre, which led to a recording contract with EMI. This partnership resulted in several hits, including "Lagos," "Tell My Girl," "You Can’t Hurry The Sunrise," and "Otachikpokpo," along with best-selling albums. His song "Cock Crow At Dawn" became the iconic theme song for a popular Nigerian TV soap opera that ran into the 1990s.

Unlike many of his contemporaries, such as Sunny Ade, Fela Anikulapo-Kuti, Sonny Okosun, and OJ Ekemode, who enjoyed international fame and toured globally, Bongos' music was primarily known within Nigeria. His only internationally released recording was "Still Searching," featured on "BLACK STARLINER," a 1970s compilation of African popular music.

After a prolific three-decade career, Bongos shifted focus to his entrepreneurial ventures, including running a successful furniture factory. However, the new millennium brought a renewed interest in his music. His vintage hits were featured in acclaimed compilations like "Nigeria 70" and "Nigeria Disco Funk Special," sparking a resurgence of Afro-pop from Nigeria and West Africa. Notably, his song "Inale" was the theme for an award-winning film produced by his daughter Keke, and the soundtrack won Best Soundtrack at the 2011 African Movie Academy Awards.

Today, AfroStreet honors Bongos Ikwue, celebrating his incredible journey and lasting impact on Nigerian music. Happy 82nd Birthday, Bongos! May your day be filled with joy, love, and the music that has always defined your remarkable career