He will be remembered as one who gave so much of himself to see to the “immortality” of the musical works of Nigerian Highlife, Juju, Sakara, Apala, Afrobeat and a crop of other Nigerian/African genre of indigenous music
WE announce the passing unto glory of our Patriarch, Mr Samuel Babafemi Esho popularly known and referred to as “Baba Esho”, Baba Musician, etc
Baba Esho departed to greater glory on Monday 17th June 2024 after a brief illness at the age of 77 years.
Baba Esho until his demise was the Chairman of the Evergreen Musical Company as well as the Founder of the Evergreen Music Heritage Foundation.
Baba Esho was a mentor and “encyclopedia” to many ‘Highlife music aficionados.
He will be remembered as one who gave so much of himself to see to the “immortality” of the musical works of Nigerian Highlife, Juju, Sakara, Apala, Afrobeat and a crop of other Nigerian/African genre of indigenous music.
The family will announce the burial arrangements in due course.
Signed
Mr Bunmi Esho
For the family.
A farewell poem for the iconic and legendary Chief Femi Esho
By Tayo Mabeweje
A giant has fallen, a star has dimmed
Chief Femi Esho, a legend has slimmed
His passing leaves a void, a space so wide
A nation mourns, a people must abide
His legacy remains, a shining light
A life well-lived, a shining sight
He touched hearts, he changed lives
His impact will survive, will thrive
With wisdom, he guided, with love, he led
A true leader, a patriot, a noble head
He stood for justice, for truth, he stood tall
A champion of the people, he gave his all
His love for Nigerian music, a burning flame
He preserved the heritage, the culture, the name
He promoted the arts, the rhythms, the beats
A guardian of tradition, a true patriot’s treats
From Fela to Femi, from King Sunny to Ayinde Barrister,
From Ebenezer Obey to Victor Olaiya, they all felt his care.
From Rex Lawson to Haruna Ishola, from Orlando Owoh to Oliver De Coque,
He celebrated the legends, the icons, the folk.
He supported the newcomers, the up-and-coming stars
A true champion of Nigerian music, near and far
His laughter echoes, his smile so bright
A memory to cherish, a treasure in sight
His words of wisdom, a guiding light
A shining star, on a darkest night
Farewell, Chief Femi Esho, may you rest
Your memory will forever be blessed
May your family find strength in this time
May your soul find peace, sublime
May your journey to the afterlife be smooth
May your legacy continue to inspire and soothe
May your name be etched in the annals of time
As a great leader, a hero, a shining rhyme.
Bimbo Esho, keep the fire burning bright,
The legendary Femi must live through your light.
Through the Evergreen Music Heritage Foundation’s grace,
May his legacy thrive, in every rhythm, every space.
Keep the good work going, Bimbo Esho, strong and clear,
For Chief Femi’s spirit is ever near.
*Tayo Mabeweje writes as a music researcher and commentator on Nigeria’s contemporary music.
