At his death, Osayomore Joseph left a legacy of successfully promoting the Edo cultural heritage through his music as well situating himself among Nigeria’s agents of social change.
He came to limelight in the mid 70s after he left the Nigeria Army to form his own band the “Ulele Power Sound.” His long musical journey took a turn around in the early 80s with the release of “Efewedo.” From then on he joined a plethora of social activists in advocating for the downtrodden.
After the military dictator and self styled president Ibrahim Babangida and his military cabal annulled the June 12, 1993 elections, Joseph went on to release series of albums attacking that regime. His new sound gained traction among diaspora Nigerians in Europe and the Americas. He toured several countries in these continents with his music.
During a tour of Italy at the restoration of democratic rule in Nigeria in 1999, Osayomore Joseph told AfroLife at the Alpheaus in Rome that Nigerians have no reason to live in poverty but for the actions of a minute opportunistic military men who have ruined the nation. He vowed he would continue to use his music to raise the voice of the voiceless.
In his tribute to the late musician, Governor Godwin Obaseki in a statement said, “I am deeply saddened by the news of the passing of music maestro, Ambassador Osayomore Joseph, who took the music world by storm with his talent and exported the Benin culture to the world.
“Osayomore Joseph was an enigmatic and versatile musician, who spread didactic messages with his soulful and sonorous voice. His contribution to the creative industry in Edo State is as remarkable as it is transformational. He was a crucial voice in the quest to make society better and more liveable with his music which focused on serious issues. His long music career, which started in the 1970s, was very productive and enriched the lives of many. The boldness and candour enmeshed in his rhythmic melodies earned him local and international acclaim,” the statement noted.
Within the last seven months Edo State has lost three illustrious musicians, first was the legend Sir Victor Uwaifo, last month the death also occurred of Omo Lawal-Osula.
