Popular Igbo highlife artiste and guitarist, Godwin Opara, popularly known as Kabaka, is dead.
Derda Promotions, whose record label Kabaka is signed on, announced his demise in a statement yesterday.
The Chief Operating Officer of Derda Promotions, Amarachi Anyanwu, disclosed that the musician died on Thursday, March 21, 2023. The cause of his death was, however, not revealed.
Kabaka was a talented, beloved songwriter and guitarist who brought joy to countless fans with his infectious highlife music.
His musical journey spanned several decades, genres, and bands.
He co-founded the Oriental Brothers International Band in 1973, a highlife powerhouse known for its socially conscious lyrics, instrumental mastery, and authentic sound that resonated with millions across Africa and beyond.
In 1976, Kabaka embarked on a solo career, forming The Kabaka International Guitar Band. He continued to produce high-quality highlife music, releasing 14 albums and creating hits such as ‘Mangala Special’.
He also experimented with Ezebongo rhythms, showcasing his versatility and creativity. Later, he joined forces with the Imo City Band, further solidifying his status as a highlife legend.
With the support of Derda Promotions, Kabaka made a triumphant return in September 2023 after 17 years of being out of sight with the album ‘The Return of Kabaka‘, which had over a million streams and trended as one of the top 100 albums worldwide. Kabaka’s passion for music was infectious.
He was expected to release another album in 2025 under the Derda Promotion.
