Apopular highlife musical artist, Elder Godwin Opara, known as Kabaka has died.
Kabaka’s death was announced in a statement obtained by Derda Promotions, Kabaka’s record label which said the veteran singer died on Thursday.
He was 77 years old.
The statement reads: “Derda Promotions is deeply saddened to announce the passing of our esteemed artist, Godwin Kabaka Opara, an icon who pioneered and revolutionised Highlife music, on March 21st, 2024.”
His death comes barely six months after he staged a comeback to the highlife music industry.
Last September, the late singer revealed that he was ready to pursue his music career again 17 years after he initially left.
In 1973, he co-founded The Oriental Brothers International Band.
He was one of the members of the four-man highlife band comprising musicians Uche Warrior, O.B and Aloy Anyanwu.
The band dominated West Africa’s music scene in the early 70s, before disbanding in 1976.
Kabaka subsequently started his solo career in 1976 with the establishment of The Kabaka International Guitar Band.