Mike Ejeagha
Mike Ejeagha | |
|---|---|
| Also known as | Gentleman Mike Ejeagha |
| Born | Ezeagu, Enugu State, Nigeria |
| Genres | Igbo music |
| Occupation(s) | Musician, guitarist |
| Instrument(s) | Guitar |
Mike Ejeagha (born April 4th, 1930)// is a Nigerian folklorist, songwriter, and musician from Enugu State, located in the southeastern part of Nigeria. Ejeagha started his career in music in the mid-20th century. Also known as Gentleman Mike Ejeagha, Ejeagha has been influential in the evolution of music in the Igbo language for over 6 decades. His first hit was in 1960 - the year of Nigeria's independence.
Biography
[edit]Ejeagha is a distinct story-teller accompanied by guitar style and his lyrics are laced with proverbs; lending his music a didactic style. He writes his own music and his lyrics are in Igbo language. Ejeagha said in 2004: "Life at old age is quite enjoyable, especially when the Almighty God gives you good health".[1]
Ejeagha has contributed over three hundred recordings to the National Archives of Nigeria produced during his field work to investigate Igbo folklore highlife music.[2]
On the 12 September 2022, it was reported by Pulse Nigeria that a documentary film on his life titled "Gentleman" is under production. The Film is directed by Michael Chineme Ike.[3]
In July 2024, "Ka Esi Le Onye Isi Oche", a song which was released in 1983 as part of his album Akuko N'Egwu Vol. 1, gained widespread recognition due to a viral dance challenge inspired by comedian Brain Jotter.[4]
| External videos | |
|---|---|
 Onye Ori Utaba (Pt 1) | |
| Onye Ori Utaba (Pt 2) |
References
[edit]- ^ NNENYELIKE, NWAGBO. "Life at oldage is quite enjoyable". Daily Sun. Retrieved 26 February 2012.[permanent dead link]
- ^ Sonny Oti (2009). Highlife Music in West Africa. Malthouse Press. p. 53. ISBN 978-978-8422-08-2.
- ^ Nwogu, Precious 'Mamazeus' (2022-09-12). "Filming kicks off for 'Gentleman' documentary on legendary folklorist Mike Ejeagha". Pulse Nigeria. Retrieved 2022-09-13.
- ^ Egobiambu, Emmanuel (2024-07-21). "Mike Ejeagha's Classic 'Ka Esi Le Onye Isi Oche' Sparks Viral Dance Challenge". Channels Television. Retrieved 2024-07-22.
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