King Sunny Ade marks 80th birthday after more than five decades in music

Nigerian juju music legend King Sunny Ade has marked his 80th birthday, celebrating a career that has spanned more than five decades.

Born Sunday Adeniyi Adegeye on September 22, 1946, the guitarist and bandleader became internationally known for modernising juju music through electric instrumentation, large ensembles and choreographed performances.

Channels Television notes that his international career included major recording deals and two Grammy nominations. His music has also influenced generations of Nigerian performers.

His 80th birthday has renewed attention on the legacy of one of Nigeria’s most recognisable traditional-pop music figures.

Source: Channels Television. Read the full profile