Aguike
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Aguike IKECHUKWU | |
|---|---|
| Birth name | Agu Ikechukwu Emmanuel |
| Also known as |
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| Born | September 29, 1965 Mbaise, Imo State, Nigeria |
| Genres | Afro Global Tune |
| Occupations |
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| Instruments | |
| Discography | aguike.com |
| Years active | 1996–present |
| Labels | USGM |
| Website | aguike |
Aguike (born Agu Ikechukwu Emmanuel; September 29, 1965, Mbaise, Imo State, Nigeria), also known as Allah-bama, is a Nigerian-American musician, songwriter, record producer and media personality. He was raised in Lagos, Nigeria. Aguike symbolizes the mighty lion, derived from the fusion of his last and middle name. It is a shortened form of Ikechukwu, which translates directly to the "Power of God." In 1995, he went by the stage name Saint Alabama. However, in 2002, he changed his stage name to Allah-bama.
Career[edit]
He embarked on his musical journey by performing as an amateur organist for Elect Singers & Hosanna Singers in 1984. Later, he became a familiar face on Nigerian Television Authority (Channel 7), Ilorin, Youth Scene during the mid-80s. His popularity at the Nigerian Television Authority led to his appointment as the Kwara State Council for Arts and Culture music coordinator in 1984. Under the then Governor's direction ( Salaudeen Olatinwo), he spearheaded all the cultural troupes in Kwara State to welcome Major General Buhari, who was the then-military head of state, during his first official visit to Kwara State from 9 April to 12 April 1985. At the time, Aguike (then known as Emma Agu) was also invited to perform exclusively for the visiting Head of State at the Kwara State Government house on the evening of 9 April 1985.
Activism[edit]
Aguike's influence went beyond his musical talent and showcased his activism. He swiftly ascended to the First Vice Chairman of the Performing Musicians Association of Nigeria in 1997, a testament to his musical brilliance. Additionally, he played a crucial role in establishing the inaugural Musicians of Niger in 2001; Onyeka Ownenu and Charly Boy were members. Furthermore, his commitment to activism was evident when, in 2001, he addressed the first Nigerian Musicians' protest against copyright infringement, an event organized by Charly Boy and the Nigerian Television Authority. Due to his activism and outspoken nature, the Nigerian media considered him the link between the new generation of musicians and the more established ones.
Additionally, he is an early member of the Copyright Society of Nigeria (COSON), which is led by Tony Okoroji. He is also a member of BMI.
Relocation to New York City[edit]
On July 8, 2002, Aguike shared comprehensive details regarding his decision to immigrate to the United States. He currently resides in Bayside, Queens, New York City.[1]
Return to Nigeria and Wajo[edit]
On April 4, 2024, Aguike returned to Nigeria after a self-imposed exile.[2] His return gained attention as he announced the upcoming release of a 24-track album titled Wajo (Dance).
Notable musical performances[edit]
Aguike, then named Emma Agu, headlined the African Inaugural ball for President Barack Obama on January 19, 2009.[3]
References[edit]
- ^ Clegg, Tosin (April 27, 2024). "Allah-Bama Returns with Wajo, Set to Release 24 Track Album". thisdaylive.com.
- ^ Okoye, Rita (April 28, 2024). "Aguike returns home with Wajo". sunnewsonline.com.
- ^ Sowoolu, Lolade (January 10, 2009). "Africa: Country's Emma Agu Headlines African Inaugural Ball Celebration for Obama". vangardngr.com.
External links[edit]
- Aguike of Allah-Bama Fame Makes Case For Entertainers
- Ban On Spraying Of Naira At Parties Will Impoverish Entertainers – Allah-Bama
- ban-on-naira-spraying-at-parties-will-impoverish-entertainers-us-based-singer-aguike-tells-govt
- US-based singer, Aguike laments plight of Nigerian artists
- "AGUIKE of Allah-Bama Fame Returns Home with Wajo" - The Nation
- "AGUIKE of Allah-Bama Fame Returns Home with Wajo" - Leadership Nigeria
- "Frustration, Conspiracy Forced Me into Self-imposed Exile" - Returnee Musician, AGUIKE Opens Up - Vanguard
- "Allah-Bama Returns with Wajo, Set to Release 24-track Album" - ThisDayLive
- "Afrobeats May Be like Nollywood if Caution Is Not Taken" - The Guardian
- "AGUIKE Returns Home with Wajo" - Sun News
- "Afriqtalk" - Emma Agu and Others win Award]
- "" AllAfrica - AGUIKE News Article
- "https://www.latestnigeriannews.com/p/3371560/afrobeats-may-be-like-nollywood-if-caution-is-not-taken-aguike.html