My PhD. Friend In Search Of Akanbi Wright’s Song,By Bimbo Esho
Recently a PHD researcher in Cornell University, Ithaca NY, US whose research study explores Nigerian Popular Music as a site for constructing and negotiating musical citizenship across distinct historical moments contacted me.
According to him he has been searching for a Colonial Era Juju Composition titled “ The Five Nigerian R.A.F by Akanbi Wright a prominent Juju musician who reigned in Nigeria in the 30’s.
This particular song RAF was a tribute to the five Nigerian airmen who served in the Royal Airforce during the Second World War. Another testimony that music will continue to serve as a cultural calendar.
The song is the six track in the album AWON OJISE OLORUN a compilation of some Yoruba music between 1931 – 1952 .
These recordings were made while the Yoruba’s were under British colonial rule, and have thus been stored and since released by the British Library.
We are happy that EMHF ( Evergreen Music Heritage Foundation) which was born out of deep love and reverence for Africa’s musical roots beyond production and promotion, have invested greatly in archiving, documenting, and reviving classic works that form the foundation of Nigeria’s musical legacy. By collaborating with veteran musicians, cultural institutions, and young talents, we aim to safeguard Nigeria’s musical traditions while encouraging innovation within them. Our dedication to heritage and preservation reflects our belief that music is not only entertainment—it is a vital part of our national story and cultural continuity.
Below is the list of songs in the Album “ Awon OJISE Olorun” released between 1931 -1952.
1 Abibu Oluwa– Orin Faji
2 Ayinde Bakare– Ajaratu
3 Abibu Oluwa– Orin Herbert Macaulay
4 Akanbi Wright– Everybody Likes Saturday Night
5 Lasisi Layemi– Omo Layemi
6 Akanbi Wright– The 5 Nigerian RAF
7 Aiyeke And His Orchestra– Arise L’Arika
8 Alhaji Muniru Singers– Olorun Nimbe Ati Adedoyin
9 Irewolede Denge– Okoya Ati Ogunniya
10 Isamoto Alade– Adesan Ya Ayinla
11 Amusa Elo– Eiye Je Eiye Mu
12 Rafiu Bankole– Oduduwa
13 Lasisi Onipele– Welewele Ewe Agbon
14 Julius Araba– Osupa Ko Dadi Osan
15 Raimi Dogo– Lasisi Adigun
16 Yusuf Olatunji– Orin Boys
17 Aminu Olaribigbe– Bisimilayi Raba Na
18 Theophilus Iwalokun– Iyawo A Ra Mi
19 Yusuf Olatunji– Nola Kolade
@yommie aderin thanks my brother for your research support always.
