Dele Sosimi’s Pick Of The Month
'The Return OF The Apola King 'Chapter 1' by Apola King Idowu Animashawun And His Lisabi Brothers International
Our remastering of this gem, first recorded and released in 1978, showcases the signature style of the mighty Apola King himself. These recordings are essentially two continuous “takes” of several songs, one for each side of the original vinyl album. These songs are amongst Idowa Animashaun’s lesser known songs but, with the band and Idowa sounding in glorious form, we hope you enjoy them as much as we are – especially the percussion breaks in between each song.
On February 23, 1938, Idowu Animashaun, better known by his stage name Apola King, was born in Igbinrin, a tiny farming community in Oko Awori, Ota, Abeokuta, Ogun State, Nigeria. He established a distinctive musical style that would make him a famous figure in Nigerian music history, making him one of the most significant juju musicians of the 1960s. He was born as his mother was frying garri (cassava flakes), which led to Animashaun’s lifelong love of eba. Before being properly exposed and cultivated with the King Kenny Tone band in 1962, Animashaun started his musical career with a local group named Bango Bidders.
The popular hit “Walemi Sisi Wale Mi” was written by young Idowu for the band while King Kennytone was performing at the Western Hotel in Alakija Mushin. This was the beginning of Idowu’s composing career. The unique moniker “Apola” was created by his friend, Evangelist Kayode Awe, who was a well-known socialite while Animashaun was playing. While enjoying cold beers with friends, including Muyiwa Ajisafe, during a performance break, Kayode said that the sound of Animashaun’s music was heavy and resembled being struck from behind with a large Apola stick.
The strong, hefty sound that became Animashaun’s characteristic style was aptly captured by the name, which persisted. As his kind of juju music, known as “Apola music,” gained popularity in Lagos social circles in the 1960s, Apola King immediately established himself as a major figure in Nigerian music. He was a member of the golden generation of juju music, sharing the limelight with peers like Prince Adekunle, Ebenezer Obey Fabiyi, King Sunny Ade, Expensive Olubi, and Ahuja Bello. His musical career took off amid the thriving social scene in Lagos at the time.
In the 1970s, Apola King’s band performed frequently at the Bandary Hotel in Idi Oro Mushin, Lagos, and later at the Stadium Hotel. They also frequently performed at many exclusive clubs in Lagos, such as the esteemed Lagos Island Club.
Master guitarist Animashaun was well-known for his extraordinary compositional skills and for drawing inspiration on the spot. He once wrote “Ma Je Ki Aiye Mi Segbe” (May My Existence Not Be in Vain) while at a fuel station. With timeless hits like “Ijo Apola”, “Thunder Balogun,”, “Apola Tunde”, “Odidere Loga Ede”, “Kini Nbe Nigbo”, “Omo Wunmi”, and “Late Thunder Balogun”, Apola King had a lasting impression on Nigerian social situations.
These songs continue to be popular among listeners and have an impact on modern musicians. Additionally, he wrote songs for other musicians, such as “Alalude” for Adeolu Akisanya. About 30 albums were recorded by Animashaun during his illustrious career. In 1967, Niger Phone Records in Onitsha produced his debut song, “E Da Oni Si Iwa Ju,” which signified his official debut in the recording business. Among his noteworthy albums are “Vol. 8 – The Extra Ordinary Sound Of Apola” (Take Your Choice Records), “Believe In God” (African Songs Ltd), and “Atewo Lara” (Lanre Adepoju Records). “E Wa Ba’wa Yo / Chief Surakatu Akinbola” and “Ajapo & Partners,” two of his songs and EPs, further demonstrated his range and depth of creativity.
Animashaun established the World Hope Church in the remote Oyo State town of Badeku in 1985 after discovering his calling to ministry. He chose not to split his time between religious work and music, but dedicating himself fully to full-time ministry. In addition to his ministerial responsibilities, he was active in community development initiatives, constructing hospitals and schools for different areas. Apola King’s journey from renowned musician to devoted missionary and evangelist shows his dedication to service, whether it be in ministry or music.
Decades after his departure from the stage, his powerful “Apola” sound continues to influence performers, solidifying his immovable legacy in Nigerian juju music. His journey from being born when his mother was frying garri to becoming one of the most well-known juju musicians in Nigeria is the epitome of a Nigerian success story, grounded on skill, tenacity, and a sense of divine purpose.
