The City of Lagos State will come alive on November 8, 2025, as music lovers from across Nigeria and the diaspora gather to celebrate the life and legacy of the late Kennery music legend, Chief (Dr) Oladipupo Owomoyela, popularly known as Orlando Owoh.
The grand event, tagged “Orlando Owoh Day”, will take place at the Blue Roof, LTV 8, Agidingbi, Ikeja, Lagos.
Organised by Lagos State University (LASU) in collaboration with the Dr. Orlando Owoh Global Fans and Related Affairs, the occasion promises to be a colourful celebration of the highlife icon’s cultural impact, timeless music, and enduring influence.
Excitement is already building among fans worldwide. According to Orimipe Olusesi Owomoyela, son of the music legend and President of the Global Fans Group, the programme is designed to “celebrate the legacy, musical contributions, and cultural impact of the Kennery music maestro.”
This special spotlight, curated by Oodua News Newspaper, Ibadan, reflects on the life and works of Dr. Orlando Owoh, underscoring why his music continues to resonate 17 years after his passing in 2008.
Why Orlando Owoh’s Music Lives On:
It’s a unique Sound – Birth of the Kennery Beat.
Orlando Owoh reinvented highlife music, creating Kennery, a style infused with Yoruba percussion, fluid guitar riffs, and philosophical lyrics, blending juju, Afrobeat, palm wine, and folk influences into a sound that was entirely his own.
A Voice Full of Emotion and Identity
His rugged, soulful voice carried raw authenticity, reflecting truth, pain, joy, and cultural pride—qualities that made his music instantly relatable.
His music contains Cultural Depth and Yoruba Wisdom
Through proverbs, idioms, and parables, Owoh celebrated Yoruba heritage while addressing moral, social, and political issues.
Fearless Social Commentary
Songs like Iya Mi and Money for Hand, Back for Ground tackled poverty, corruption, and injustice with unflinching honesty.
A Four-Decade Career of Consistency:
Remaining relevant from the 1960s to the 1990s, Owoh produced dozens of albums and hundreds of songs that remain timeless.
Authenticity Over Commercial Trends:
He never compromised his style for market trends, staying true to African rhythms and cultural essence.
Master Storyteller and Philosopher:
His lyrics blended street wisdom with deep philosophical insight, often mirroring the life of a griot.
Commanding Stage Presence;
With charisma and discipline, he led his band, African Kenneries International, delivering energetic and captivating live performances.
Influence Across Generations
Owoh’s music continues to inspire Nigerian artistes across genres, influencing Afrobeat, Fuji, and contemporary Afropop.
An Immortal Legacy:
His songs remain staples at parties, cultural festivals, and on radio airwaves, making him a timeless figure in African music.
Conclusion
Dr. Orlando Owoh was more than a musician—he was a cultural institution, a fearless truth-teller, and a custodian of African heritage. His music, rich in wisdom and authenticity, remains a powerful force 17 years after his passing. As Lagos prepares to honour him, one thing is certain: Orlando Owoh’s voice will continue to echo through generations, unfiltered and unforgettable.
