At 90 years old, Gentleman Mike Ejeagha is currently trending on social media. This resurgence came after his 1983 hit ‘Ka Esi Le Onye Isi Oche’ was featured in a viral video by comedian and skit maker Brain Jotter.
While many young social media users are discovering him through the catchy “Gwo Gwo Gwo Ngwo” lyric from this song, there’s much more to this legendary musician than just a viral moment.
Early life and musical beginnings
Born in August 1932 in Imezi Owa, Enugu State, Gentleman Mike Ejeagha’s journey into music began in his elementary school days with an Ogene group. His fascination with the guitar started when he observed Moses Aduba (also known as Moscow) and Cyprian Uzochiawa strumming the instrument.
Ejeagha was quick to learn and soon mastered the guitar, laying the foundation for his future in music.
Formation of the Merry-makers
In 1950, Ejeagha took a significant step by forming his band, the Mike Ejeagha and Merry-makers. In a 2009 interview published on “Last FM,” Gentleman Mike Ejeagha explained that his nickname “Gentleman” was inspired by his courteous demeanor and how he treats others.
Ejeagha’s musical path began in his elementary school days as a member of an Ogene group.
His interest in the guitar sparked when he watched Moses Aduba, also known as Moscow, and Cyprian Uzochiawa play at the Coal Camp in Enugu. He learned from both musicians, honing his guitar skills over time.
By 1950, he had mastered the guitar well enough to form his own band, Mike Ejeagha and the Merry-makers. His rise to fame accelerated when he was discovered by Atu Ona, the then Controller of the Nigerian Broadcasting Service (NBS), who invited him to audition.
This opportunity led to his own radio program, “Guitar Playtime,” where he not only played music but also created musical shows. His success on the radio helped him establish a larger band, the Premier Dance Band.
How he started – post-war fame
Ejeagha’s music career blossomed after the Nigerian Civil War when he released the album ‘Omekagu’ with Polygram Records which became a milestone in his career, and later, Phillips Records.
Following this, he was invited by the Anambra Broadcasting Service (now known as the Enugu State Broadcasting Service, ESBS) to host a program titled ‘Akuko n’egwu’ (storytelling in music).
On this show, he shared a new folktale every week, enchanting his audience with the rich oral traditions of the Igbo culture.
What sets him apart
What sets Gentleman Mike Ejeagha apart is his ability to weave complex social, cultural, and moral narratives into his music. Using idioms, proverbs, and folklore, he has created a rich tapestry of Igbo culture that resonates with both old and young audiences alike.
His music doesn’t just entertain; it teaches and preserves the heritage of his people.
Gentleman Mike Ejeagha is celebrated for his Igbo folk music, which is rich in social, cultural, historical, and moral narratives. His music, interwoven with idioms, proverbs, and folktales, has established him as one of the most revered Igbo folk and Highlife artists in Nigerian history.
Enduring influence and a biography documentary
With over 33 albums to his name, Ejeagha’s work has been influential in defining modern Igbo folk music. His recent resurgence in popularity, thanks to social media, highlights the timeless appeal of his music.
Plans for a biographical documentary are underway, promising to introduce his life and art to new generations.
>>> Read full article>>>
Copyright for syndicated content belongs to the linked Source : BusinessElitesAfrica – https://businesselitesafrica.com/5-things-to-know-about-igbo-folk-music-legend-gentleman-mike-ejeagha/
