Dele Sosimi’s Pick Of The Month

Sakara music, a form of traditional praise style of singing in Yoruba with Arabic vocals filled the vacuum for public entertainment in the West and North, among Muslims. The mostly philosophical themed style of singing was popularized by Abibu Oluwa and his prodigy Salami Balogun. Alhaji Balogun is said to come from the warrior tribe of Barbara, Niger State, who settled in Obalende Lagos after much battling. Born to a powerful medicine man and fisherman, Salami grew up extremely talented creating things at a young age. He grew up in a street known for Sakara music, as the bars and public places performed amongst themselves. He wrestled, competed in local wrestling and won mostly. The second world war started, and he enlisted with some of his brothers, serving in Kaduna first, where music found him again. He started as a drummer in Muniru Bankole Orimadegun’s band. His drumming talent attracted the attention of the famous Abibu Oluwa. His nickname ‘ Lefty’, came from the fact that his left hand handled the instruments in his charge. The Hausa instruments, Goje and Molo,were his forte, and he took the Sakara music scene by storm. Avoiding conflict, he started his records after the death of his Mentor, Abibu Oluwa. He had several records, among some named Lefty, Oloye Eko, Itan Lisabi, Itan Anobi, Sikiru Akinwunmi, Amusa Folarain, Sabiu Ajose, Latifu a Obayomi. The style of singing was moody, and deeply thought provoking, giving rise to a style of storytelling and conversation in music. He made a legacy for himself, forever remembered as one of the pioneers of great music.