After 17 years-long hiatus, legendary highlife musician, Godwin Opara popularly known as Kabaka, has staged a big comeback.
To make this happen, Kabaka, leader of the world famous Oriental Brothers International Band, has partnered with top entertainment management company, Derda Promotions under whose label his new album is being released.
Speaking at a media parley in Lagos recently, 77-years-old Kabaka expressed his excitement for his return to the music scene after so many years, with the backing of Derda Promotions.
“I feel so good returning after many years. And with all that had happened, I mean my brother and friend passing away. But I am delighted and ready to take over the music scene with my new highlife album, Abialam, (I Have Returned) spearheaded by Derda Promotions,” he enthused.
On her part, Derda Promotions’ Chief Operating Officer, Anyanwu Glory Ammarachi, said her company would formally unveil Kabaka to the world at Art Nouveau Centre, Owerri, Imo State on September 15, 2023.
“This new album, Abialam marks a significant milestone in the Kabaka and His Oriental Brothers’ musical legacy. The album is not only a celebration of their remarkable career, but also a testament to the enduring influence of Eastern Nigerian highlife music on a global scale. It is a testament to the power of music to transcend boundaries and connect people from all walks of life. Through Abialam, we aim to create a cultural bridge between generations, reviving the spirit and legacy of highlife music for a new audience while paying homage to its roots.
‘To commemorate this momentous occasion, we invite you all to join us for a special pre-listening event at the renowned Art Nouveau Centre in Owerri at 12pm on September 15, 2023. This exclusive gathering will provide a unique opportunity to experience the live performances of Abialam on its official release date. It will also have performances of other legendary and young artistes from the Eastern region of Nigeria,” she stressed.
Abialam is coming 17 years after Kabaka’s album, Madu Bu Aja (We Are Sand), a tribute to his friend and former band member, the late Sir Warrior, in 2006. According to the veteran musician, Abialam aims to restore the highlife genre and transcend the controversies that ensued from the Oriental Brothers’ decision to go solo and subsequent members’ losses.
The album comprises a meticulously curated selection of six tracks, each with its own unique story. From soul-stirring highlife to infectious Bongo rhythms, the album showcases Kabaka’s extraordinary ability to evoke emotions and connect with the life experience through music. Kabaka also featured iconic artiste, Sir Foreigner aka Eze Bongo, in one of the six tracks.
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