Happy 80th Birthday, King Sunny Adé!!!

 

Happy 80th birthday and many congratulations to the music legend King Sunny Adé, MFR!

Born Sunday Adeniyi Adegeye into a royal family in Oshogbo, Osun State, in 1942, he is known as the king of Jùjú music. He was the first African singer to achieve major international acclaim and the first Nigerian artist to receive a Grammy Award nomination.

King Sunny Adé began his impressive 60-year career as a member of Moses Olaiya's (Baba Sala) band, the Federal Rhythm Dandies. In 1967, he formed his own band, initially called The Green Spots, which was later renamed The African Beats and released more than 100 albums and recordings. 

In addition to his successful music career, KSA is recognized for his philanthropy and mentorship. He established the King Sunny Ade Foundation, which includes a performing arts center and state-of-the-art recording facilities designed to mentor young Nigerian musicians.

Congratulations and wishing you many more, sir!