Music legend Godwin ‘Kabaka’ Opara, the renowned guitarist and singer, has sadly passed away at the age of 77, leaving the highlife world in mourning. His management officially confirmed the news on March 22nd, expressing the profound impact of his loss on Nigeria’s vibrant music scene.
Kabaka will be remembered as a pioneer and innovator in the realm of high-life music. In the 1970s, he co-founded the Oriental Brothers International Band, which gained fame for its intricate instrumentation and socially conscious lyrics. This marked the beginning of a trailblazing career that would shape the landscape of modern life.
After going solo in 1976, Kabaka formed the Kabaka International Guitar Band, producing numerous iconic albums and hits. He showcased his mastery of highlife music while incorporating influences from other genres like Ezebongo, demonstrating his creativity and versatility as an artist. Collaborations with groups such as the Imo City Band further solidified his legendary status.
In recent years, Kabaka experienced a career renaissance with the release of his highly acclaimed album, “The Return of Kabaka,” in 2023. The album, which was backed by Derda Promotions, became a worldwide hit, surpassing one million streams and demonstrating his enduring talent.
The passing of Kabaka at the age of 77 leaves a tremendous void in Nigerian and African music. As one of the founders of Highlife and an inspiration to generations of artists, his influence will continue to resonate for years to come. Kabaka will be remembered as a true music icon, and his memory, along with his unforgettable songs, will live on in the hearts of fans forever. The entire music industry will be greatly saddened by his passing.
