By Richard Thomas
Kennery genre sensation, Afe Korede has revealed how late Kennery King, Chief Oladipupo Owomoyela popularly Known as Orlando Owoh blessings and anointing on him stands him out as the torchbearer of the music genre years after his demise.
Afe Korede made the revelation in a chat with Oodua News Newspaper, saying his encounter with Orlando Owoh’s in his Lagos residence in 2008 remained a catalyst for him in the music journey. He said the Kennery king encouraged and blessed him, having Known that he (Afe) sings his kind of music.
He said his meeting with Dr. Orlando Owoh was not only memorable but remarkable adding that it was the beginning of his journey in the music genre even though he had started in 2006.
Speaking on how he came into the music industry, Afe, who leads Afe Korede Ijinle Kennery and His Fakor International Kenneries Band said he ventured into the profession after discovering that his proficiency lies in it.
“I have six album to my credit since I launched out in 2006, my first album titled, “Tribute to Dr. Orlando Owoh” was released in 2013, the second one, ” Eru Obodo” was released in 2014, the third one titled, “Current Affairs” was released in 2016, the fourth album, Ireti Ola” was done in 2017, the fifth one, “Yan Eniyan timi” was released in 2021 while the sixth album, “Success is a trap” was released in 2023″.
Afe who is fast becoming a toast to lovers of Kennery music home and abroad described music as a serious business for him adding that the music genre has given him an identity, fulfillment and self actualization.
“Between 2004 and 2005, I worked as sales officer at cement stores and also at Palm Carnel and Cocoa store. I also remember during holidays in 2003 I worked at sawmills and in a plank factory to earn a living. But as soon as I discovered that my proficiency lies in singing, I quit the job and focused on music as a career.”
Afe said some challenges he had faced during the starting points also strengthen him. “I remember the day we had an outing and my bad boys insisted that I should pay them before they would go and play with me, I felt so devastated, but the spirit of resilience in me gave me the courage to arrange for external instrumentals and the show was a success. Although my band boys later came to join me when they saw what God had done at the show. Many other challenges which occured had only strengthened me”
He said most fulfilling moment for him was the day Dr Orlando Owoh blessed and encouraged him to continue to sing his Kennery music genre.
On how he achieved the lyrics and voice of the Kennery King, Afe said his love, interest and determination since his secondary schools days helped him to achieve the feat. “As soon as I launched into the music genre, people noticed the genre and identity with me.
He said even though plans are top gear to take his music beyond the shores of the country, he hopes to bring back the memory of the late Kennery king to the consciousness of the people through the music.
“My plans and projection is to sustain the Kennery music genre and become a mega star. I have no doubt that my path in singing the Kennery genre is a call to service and I will do my best to leave a legacy for the coming generations.”
