By Bimbo Esho
Unpretentious, Reserved, Meek, Disciplined, Gentlemanly: These are the words that best describe this music mogul of inescapable repute.
He breathes music and his passion for music is second to none. He remains till date, the brain behind Evergreen Songs of the originals. A prowess that earned him recognition of Platinum Disc Award and Best Producer Of The Year Award, in 1991.
Together with Beckley Jones and Mike Odumosu, he formed the popular Nigerian music group, BLO in 1972. The group that reigned for about 10 years fused the Afro sound with Funk and Western Rock sounds, delivering a completely unique sound that defines the full spectrum of black music.
Laolu Akins and the Lijadu sisters were members of the Afro Collection Band led by Tee Mac Omatshola Iseli, the popular and highly respected Nigerian Flutist. The band was a resident band at Batakoto, Lagos.
Iconic world drummer, Ginger Baker’s visit to Nigeria was a major turning point for Laolu Akins . When Ginger Baker met and watched Laolu Akins’ performance at ‘BATAKOTO.’ In no time, he formed the group ‘SALT’ comprising Laolu Akins, Kehinde Lijadu, Taiwo Lijadu, Tunde Kuboye and Berkeley Jones.
The group made a highly successful musical tour of Germany, Canada, United States and United Kingdom before they returned to Nigeria.
His Evergreen Contributions. Laolu Akins produced Ace and Shinamania by Shina Peters in 1989 and 1990 respectively.
He produced Bubble and Mr Johnson Play For Me by Adewale Ayuba in 1991 and 1992 respectively.
He produced Mike Okri’s debut LP Concert Fever in 1989 with popular songs like Omoge and Time Na Money
He led the drum percussion of Kris Okotie’s song, I Need Someone.
These songs, without doubt, changed Nigerian local music vibe for global acceptance and became the authentic beats of the future.
Laolu Akins’ deep knowledge of sound is legendary and worthy of study. From Afrojuju, To Fuji, To R n B to Afrorock et’al. Happy Birthday to the Star behind the Stars.
