Ilorin Music

The origin of traditional music in Ilorin could be traced to the 19th Century.

Traditional musicians were at first more of comedians who entertained the public; they eventually turned to praise singers who eulogized families, lineages, clans and individuals. In the Emirate, two categories of music have been identified. These are ‘Waka’ and ‘others’ which include Were, Senwele, Dadakuada, Pakenke, Duru, Molo, etc.

Among prominent musicians in the first category were late Dodo Oniwaka, late Alabi Labaika and late Alhaji Wahab Titilope as well as Alhaja Rukayat Batimoluwasi and Alhaja Afusat Onisese. The second category included such deceased artists as Akanbi Olola, Ajibayc, Alabi Ikotun, Ajadi Sakara, Odolaye Arcmu, Akanbi-Eri and Amada Kalubi. The list also includes Alhaji Jaigbade Alao, Alhaja lya Tamiwo, Iyaladuke, Alapata Eja, Saka Danfo, late Easy Kabaka, Besco Azeez, Orisunmade Ganiyu and a host of others.

No marriage ceremony in the emirate is concluded without inclusion of Waka chant, which is usually organized during the marriage Eve (aisun). Ilorin’s Waka has remained an amalgam of Islam and Ilorin cultural values. The second category of music is always preferred as an afternoon programme (Aare Osan), following the ban on night party in llorin metropolis by the llorin LG Council. Hitherto, kolanuts numbering about 10 pieces were enough to invite a musician for a ceremony such as wedding.

Nowadays, most musicians require not only booking and payment of certain money (Owo Ibede) but also foods and drinks.