A fascinating character in Nigeria’s vibrant musical scene of the 1980s is Alhaja Hassanah Waziri and Her Velvet Voice. She established a distinctive niche for herself in the thriving Edo funk scene of the time. Hassanah Waziri, who was mostly active in the middle of the 1980s, put out four albums between 1983 and 1986. “Madam Hassanah Waziri & Her Velvet Voice Vol. 1″, her debut album was released in 1983 and “Vol. 2″ followed in 1984. She released the third volume “Madam Hassanah Waziri” in 1985, and “Oghena Iruduna” was her last known release in 1986. Waziri’s role in the Edo funk movement—a colourful and unique sound that originated in Nigeria’s Edo State in the late 1970s and thrived throughout the 1980s—is what makes her especially noteworthy. This musical genre was an intriguing blend of modern funk, disco, and psychedelic influences that were popular in West Africa at the time, with traditional Edo rhythms and melodies. Hypnotic grooves, trippy guitar work, powerful bass lines, and call-and-response vocal patterns derived from traditional Edo culture were the hallmarks of Edo funk. The genre frequently combined traditional percussion with electronic instruments like synthesisers to create a unique sound that respected cultural heritage while embracing contemporary musical advancements. She often incorporated social commentary and cultural narratives into their lyrics, addressing both everyday life experiences and broader societal issues. She earned the honorific term “Alhaja” after the completion of the Hajj pilgrimage to Mecca. Her moniker, “Her Velvet Voice,” is a testament to her unique singing style and vocal prowess which made her standout from her peers.