Kabaka of defunct Oriental Brothers steps up with Abialam 

Legendary singer, Goodwin Opara, popularly known as Kabaka has returned with Abialam, 17 years after the Oriental Brothers left the music scene.

Kabaka, the leader of the Oriental Brothers International Band, has partnered Derda Promotions, a leading entertainment management company, to unveil his long-awaited work.

The album was crafted by a team of talented producers, sound engineers, and musicians at Der da Promotions, who ensured that each track resonates with authenticity. Produced in Owerri, the album captures the essence of Kabaka and His Oriental Brothers’ artistic vision in every note.

With a career spanning several decades, Kabaka’s unique sound has captivated audiences, blending traditional Eastern Nigerian highlife music in its rawest and most authentic form with contemporary elements.

Kabaka’s genius was evident in the famous Oriental Brothers International Band in their inaugural album “The Five Fingers,” which showcased his mastery of integrating rhythm and lead on a single guitar, earning them a Gold Disc award.

In 1976, the Oriental Brothers decided to embark on solo ventures, leading to Kabaka’s insatiable creative spirit that gave birth to the Kabaka International Guitar Band. His 14-album legacy, including hits such as Mangala Special, which earned a Silver Disk award, has highlighted Kabaka’s stellar highlife essence. His versatility also birthed the Imo City Band, further solidifying his legendary status.

Abialam aims to restore the highlife genre and transcend the controversies that ensued from the Oriental Brothers’ decision to go solo and subsequent members’ losses. Abialam, which means I have returned, takes listeners on a musical journey that transcends time and space, exploring emotions, culture, and life experiences.

A six-track album, Abialam comprises a meticulously curated selection, each with its unique story.

One of the highlights of Abialam is the remarkable collaboration with the renowned Bongo legendary artiste, Sir Foreigner popularly known as EZB Bongo. This album brings together a diverse array of talent, resulting in a fusion of sounds that will undoubtedly captivate listeners.

Abialam will be released on September 15, 2023, marking a significant milestone in the Kabaka and his Oriental Brothers musical legacy. This album is not only a celebration of their remarkable career, but also a testament to the enduring influence of eastern Nigeria highlife music on a global scale.

The 77-year-old singer, composer and instrumentalist noted that Abialam aims to restore the highlife genre and transcend the controversies that ensued from the Oriental Brothers’ decision to go solo and subsequent members’ losses. It was no longer the same because Sir Warrior left, and I have not been myself ever since. When I look back, I don’t see Warrior because he was the foundation singer, he sang very well than others.

He said: “It is so good returning after leaving the scene and with all that my brother and friend passing away. After this, I will release another album next two years.

Speaking on the collaboration between Derda Promotions and Kabaka, the Chief Operating Officer, Derda Promotions, Anyanwu Glory Ammarachi said: “As a promotion company, this is the first legendary artiste, we would be working with and it is just to bridge the generational gap between young and old and also retain the authenticity of our highlife music.”