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Mike Ejeagha

From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia
Mike Ejeagha
Also known asGentleman Mike Ejeagha
Born (1930-04-04) April 4, 1930 (age 94)
Ezeagu, Enugu State, Nigeria
GenresIgbo music
Occupation(s)Musician, guitarist
Instrument(s)Guitar

Mike Ejeagha (born April 4th, 1930)// is a Nigerian folklorist, songwriter, and musician from Enugu State, located in the southeastern part of Nigeria. Ejeagha started his career in music in the mid-20th century. Also known as Gentleman Mike Ejeagha, Ejeagha has been influential in the evolution of music in the Igbo language for over 6 decades. His first hit was in 1960 - the year of Nigeria's independence.

Biography

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Ejeagha is a distinct story-teller accompanied by guitar style and his lyrics are laced with proverbs; lending his music a didactic style. He writes his own music and his lyrics are in Igbo language. Ejeagha said in 2004: "Life at old age is quite enjoyable, especially when the Almighty God gives you good health".[1]

Ejeagha has contributed over three hundred recordings to the National Archives of Nigeria produced during his field work to investigate Igbo folklore highlife music.[2]

On the 12 September 2022, it was reported by Pulse Nigeria that a documentary film on his life titled "Gentleman" is under production. The Film is directed by Michael Chineme Ike.[3]

In July 2024, "Ka Esi Le Onye Isi Oche", a song which was released in 1983 as part of his album Akuko N'Egwu Vol. 1, gained widespread recognition due to a viral dance challenge inspired by comedian Brain Jotter.[4]

Discography

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  • Akanchawa
  • Uwa Ngbede Ka Mma
  • Elulube Lube
  • Ezi Nwa Mgbeke.
  • Enyi Ga Achi.
  • Onye Uri Utaba.
  • Ife Nji M’Ogo
  • Atualu Omalu
  • Ebini New Ude
  • Mgba Enwude

[5]

External videos
video icon Onye Ori Utaba (Pt 1)
video icon Onye Ori Utaba (Pt 2)

References

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  1. ^ NNENYELIKE, NWAGBO. "Life at oldage is quite enjoyable". Daily Sun. Retrieved 26 February 2012.[permanent dead link]
  2. ^ Sonny Oti (2009). Highlife Music in West Africa. Malthouse Press. p. 53. ISBN 978-978-8422-08-2.
  3. ^ Nwogu, Precious 'Mamazeus' (2022-09-12). "Filming kicks off for 'Gentleman' documentary on legendary folklorist Mike Ejeagha". Pulse Nigeria. Retrieved 2022-09-13.
  4. ^ Egobiambu, Emmanuel (2024-07-21). "Mike Ejeagha's Classic 'Ka Esi Le Onye Isi Oche' Sparks Viral Dance Challenge". Channels Television. Retrieved 2024-07-22.
  5. ^ "Gwo Gwo Gwo Ngwo: Everything You Need To Know About Mike Ejeagha - Dockaysworld". 2024-07-26. Retrieved 2024-07-27.