Governor Rauf Aregesola of Osun state has described Juju music maestro, Sunday Adeniyi Adegeye, (aka King Sunny Ade) as a rare breed and a precious gift to the music world.
In a birthday congratulatory message signed by his media aide, Mr Semiu Okanlawon, on Thursday in Osogbo, the governor said that Adegeye was a source of pride for Nigeria.
The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the music icon, who is celebrating his 70th birthday today, was born on Sept. 22, 1946, in Osogbo.
“Sunny Ade represents for the country and every black man a source of pride.’’
“Sunday Adeniyi Adegeye is undoubtedly one of the music icons on the African continent.
“He is a gift not only to Nigeria but also the whole music communities of the world.’’
Aregbesola also described the Juju musician as a prodigious songster and creative enigma, whose reach in musical world had no limit.
According to Aregbesola, the musician was able to remain strong in music up to the age of 70 due to his dexterity, originality, hard work, and more importantly, God’s grace.
He said that the juju exponent had registered his name strongly as one of the most gifted and prolific singers and song writers with uncommon consistency in the last four decades.
“He sings with convenience, grace and originality. His lyrics are evergreen, renewable and didactic.
“He is a prolific song writer, gifted guitarist, prophet and excellent dancer – all rolled into one.
“As he celebrates his three scores and a decade of existence on earth, we cannot but wish him more prosperous years,’’ the governor said.
He prayed that the music icon would continue to be a blessing to humanity.