By Taiye Olayemi
The Evergreen Musical Company says the death of Nigerian folklore musician, poet and dramatist, Jimi Solanke, can be likened to a whole museum of art and music being set ablaze.
Bimbo Esho, Managing Director of the company, said this while reacting to the death of Solanke, in an interview with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) on Tuesday in Lagos.
The legendary poet and playwright died on Monday at the age of 81.
“For those of us who understand what it means to lose an icon in our society, Pa Jimi’s death can be likened to a whole museum of art and music being set ablaze.
“Armed with an expressive face, baritone voice and contagious smile, Pa Jimi Solanke was one of Africa’s most accomplished performing artistes.
“He was a man of different parts: a musician, poet, thespian, educationist, producer, cultural ambassador and more.
“One can’t take away Baba’s gentle mien, humility and his omoluabi trait which many of us have imbibed today,” she said.
Esho recounted fond memories she had of the role late Solanke played during her formative years; watching his storyland series on the Nigerian Television Authority (NTA).
“I remember one of his early years movie, “For Better for Worse”, which featured him , Aunty Taiwo Ajayi Lycett and Pa Tunji Oyelana.
“How can I forget his evergreen folk songs like Ojoje, Baba Agba, Osupa, Bare Ni Joye, Bi a Ba Jeko, Oil Boom Palava, Omiyale and more.
“My best moment with him was what I will call a ‘Last Super’ and this was in 2022 when he clocked 80 years.
“Evergreen Musical Company and Ogun State Government under the leadership of Gov. Dapo Abiodun decided to give him a state banquet celebration to appreciate baba’s contribution to the promotion of arts and culture.
“The event which had in attendance most top government functionaries and friends of baba remains till date an unforgettable moment.
“I join millions around the world to celebrate this great man and pray that he finds peace at the bosom of his creator,” she said.
NAN reports that Solanke is known for Kongi’s Harvest, Sango, Shadow Parties, and many more. (NAN)
Edited by Folasade Adeniran
