GDN SIDEBAR
The lead drummer of popular Fuji musician, King Wasiu Ayinde Marshal (KWAM 1), Mr Ayanlowo Ayankunle, has been honoured with an award and the honorary title of Mayedun of Yorubaland by the General Professional Drummers of Nigeria (GPDON), Kano State Branch.
The honour was conferred on Ayankunle on Wednesday in Kano in recognition of his dexterity in traditional drumming and contributions to the promotion of the art through his performances in KWAM 1’s band.
The ceremony was attended by members of the association, including its Governor, Adura Gbemi; Deputy Governor, Toliha Abdul; Secretary, Michael Balogun; and Ayan Adeyemi Adebiyi.
Other members present were Ayan Michael Apala, Ayan Dauda Daure, Ayan Sarafa, Brother Paul, Kayode Sticks and Ayan Bola.
Speaking during the presentation, the association’s Governor said Ayankunle deserved the recognition because of his outstanding contributions to KWAM 1’s band and the positive image he had projected for professional drummers.
He said the award and title were also intended to inspire drummers across Nigeria and Africa by demonstrating that their professional skills and dedication could earn them recognition and respect.
“We honour our brother, Ayankunle Ayanlowo, with this award and the title Mayedun of Yorubaland because of his dexterity in the art of traditional drumming. His exploits have given our members across Nigeria and Africa psychological support that they can also be counted to be important in life as drummers,” he said.
In his response, Ayankunle expressed appreciation to the association for recognising his contributions to the entertainment industry.He attributed his achievements to God, his parents, who trained him in traditional drumming, and his employer, KWAM 1, for providing him with the platform to develop and showcase his talent.
“I give all thanks to God Almighty, my parents who tutored me in this art of traditional drumming and, more specifically, my boss, the Olori Omooba Akile-Ijebu, King Wasiu Ayinde Marshal. I will always have cause to appreciate him,” he said.
