Image Courtesy: Google Doodle
Oliver De Coque (14 April 1947 – 20 June 2008) whose real name was Oliver Sunday Akanite, was a Nigerian musician, singer, and songwriter.
Life and Career
He was born on 14 April 1947. He was a prominent figure in the highlife music genre, which is a popular music style in West Africa, particularly in Nigeria.
Oliver De Coque was born in Ezinifite, a small town in Anambra State, Nigeria. He began his music career at a young age and became known for his unique style that blended traditional Igbo music with modern highlife elements, creating a distinct sound that earned him a large following in Nigeria and beyond.
Oliver De Coque released his debut album, “Messiah Messiah,” in 1977, which was a huge success and launched his career to new heights. He went on to release numerous albums over the years, including “Identity,” “Biri Ka Mbiri,” “Ana Enwe,” and “Nempi Social Club,” among others. His music was characterized by catchy melodies, lively rhythms, and meaningful lyrics that often touched on social, political, and cultural issues.
As a musician, Oliver De Coque was known for his exceptional guitar skills and his ability to captivate audiences with his energetic and charismatic stage performances. He was also a prolific songwriter, often addressing topics such as love, African culture, and social commentary in his music.
Oliver De Coque’s contributions to the highlife music genre and Nigerian music as a whole earned him numerous accolades, including awards and recognition for his outstanding musical achievements. He was also known for his philanthropic activities, including supporting charitable causes and promoting cultural heritage.
Unfortunately, Oliver De Coque passed away on 20 June 2008, at the age of 61, leaving behind a rich musical legacy that continues to influence and inspire musicians in Nigeria and beyond. His music remains popular and is remembered for its unique blend of traditional and modern elements, as well as his contributions to African music and culture.
Award and Legacy
Oliver De Coque received several awards and accolades during his career in recognition of his contributions to the music industry. Oliver de coque was so good that in 1994 the Alaafin of Oyo, Oba Lamidi Adeyemi crowned him the King of Highlife music and in the same year, he was conferred with the Honorary Doctor of Letters in Music at the University of New Orleans.
In 2001, he was conferred with the title of Ikemba by the Igwe of Ezinifite, HRH Reuben Ananti and his cabinet.
Oliver De Coque’s music and legacy continue to be cherished by his fans and music enthusiasts, and he is remembered as one of the most influential highlife musicians from Nigeria. His contributions to the music industry, his promotion of African culture, and his philanthropic endeavors have left a lasting impact on the Nigerian music scene and beyond.
On 14 April 2012, Google celebrated Oliver De Coque’s 74th birthday with a doodle.