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Salawa Abeni is a Nigerian musician, actress and performer who has made significant contributions to the Nigerian music industry. Born on May 5th, 1961, in Lagos Island, Lagos State, Nigeria, Salawa Abeni started her career as a teenager in the 1970s. She’s popularly known as Queen of Waka Music, which is a genre of music indigenous to the Yoruba people of Nigeria.
Early Life
Salawa Abeni lived most of her early life in Lagos Island, Lagos State. She was raised by her grandmother who introduced her to music at a very young age. Salawa Abeni’s grandmother was a traditional “Alaaru” musician who performed at social events like weddings and naming ceremonies. Salawa Abeni learned how to sing and dance from her grandmother and soon became her backup singer.
Career
Salawa Abeni started her professional music career with the Nigerian Television Authority (NTA) Lagos as a studio session singer in the late 1970s. She then joined the Yoruba National Theater Group, where she worked as a lead vocalist and recorded several albums. In 1979, Salawa Abeni released her first album, “Late General Murtala Ramat Mohammed,” which was a huge success and propelled her into stardom. Since then, she has released a number of successful albums and has performed at various events both in Nigeria and abroad.
Salawa Abeni’s music career has spanned over three decades and has earned her numerous awards and accolades. She is known for her unique style of music which features the use of traditional Yoruba musical instruments like the “talking drum,” “bata,” “sakara,” and “agogo.” Her music is a blend of traditional African rhythms and contemporary beats which makes it appealing to a wide audience.
Discography
- Eji Owuro (1979)
- Itosi (1980)
- Obani Mewa (1981)
- Waheed Edumare (1982)
- Talazo 84 (1984)
- Itan Ajibola (1985)
- Ayinke (1986)
- Won Kere Si Number Wa (1987)
- Talazo System (1988)
- Akwokwo (1989)
- Gold (1990)
- Ahoododo (1991)
- Gbarada (1992)
- Efori Gogoro (1993)
- Ayinke 2 (1996)
- Reality (1998)
- Play for Me (2002)
- Experience (2005)
- Sweetest Melodies (2011)
- Uwonsa (2015)
Personal Life
Salawa Abeni is a mother of three and has been married twice. Her first marriage ended in divorce, while her second husband, Kollington Ayinla, is also a veteran Nigerian musician. Salawa Abeni is also a grandmother and has been described as a family-oriented person.
Net Worth
Salawa Abeni’s net worth is estimated at $600,000 dollars. In Nigerian Naira, her net worth is equivalent to ₦218,400,000. Her net worth in Canadian dollars is estimated at $780,000 CAD, while in Ghana Cedi, it is equivalent to GH₵3,400,000. Her net worth in Kenya shilling is estimated at KSh 65,400,000, while her net worth in South Africa rand is estimated at R8,490,000. Her net worth in Uganda shilling is estimated at USh 2,225,400,000, while her net worth in Indian rupee is estimated at ₹45,250,000.
Cars and House
Salawa Abeni currently owns a couple of cars which include a Mercedes Benz GLE 450 and a Toyota Prado. She also owns a mansion situated in Lekki, Lagos State.
Conclusion
Salawa Abeni is a legendary musician who has contributed immensely to the growth and development of the Nigerian music industry. Her music has touched the lives of millions of people both in Nigeria and abroad. She is a versatile performer who has remained relevant and consistent in her craft over the years. Salawa Abeni’s legacy will continue to be remembered and celebrated for years to come.
Backlink to Salawa Abeni’s profile on Boomplay: https://www.boomplay.com/artists/42140
Link to Salawa Abeni’s other social media accounts: