Classical Fuji After K1: The Likely Successors

It is no gainsaying that the Nigerian Entertainment industry reign supreme and most of these celebrities are always identified as semi-god by their numerous fans and admirers. Alhaji Wasiu Ayinde Adewale Omogbolahan Anifowose popularly known as K1 De Ultimate is a Nigerian Fuji musician who has paid his dues. K1 had earlier popularized a brand of the Fuji genre based on the work of his master and the Fuji creator, Alhaji Sikiru Ayinde Barrister known as Talazo Fuji that appeals to all age groups, irrespective of tribe and background.

In 1984, the Ijebu-Ode Prince had his greatest musical success, with the album, titled, ‘Talazo 84’. He later step up his game, and by dint of hard work, K1 has successfully created and popularized his brand of Fuji music christened ‘Classical Fuji’. And, he has since recorded rhythmic success stories.

Wasiu Ayinde, who is believed to be the wealthiest and most influential Fuji artiste alive, has continued to show that he is indeed the ‘Fuji lord’. With his brand of Classical Fuji that appeals to the old and young generations, K1 blends easily with time and this has assisted him to build a huge fanatic Fan base and high leveled networks. While others are still struggling to secure a show, K1 is already occupied both home and abroad entertaining his fans. His rare commitment, dedication and consistency has earned him, among his contemporaries, the only artiste that is still visible on the big screen.

No doubt, the Fuji lord, King Wasiu Ayinde Marshall has made his way into the hearts of the people, especially artistes who dream to be like him. Very recently, he harvested the produce of his hard work as the Alaafin of Oyo, His Imperial Majesty, Oba Lamidi Olayiwola Atanda Adeyemi III installed him as the Mayegun of Yorubaland.

Meanwhile, the Fuji maestro, K1, 63 is aging and has more responsibility to shoulder following his installation as the Mayegun of Yorubaland which he specifically acknowledged during the installation ceremony. He promised to stand for the interest of the Yoruba nation and its unity.

Though, K1 is not tired, just like an old wine, he keeps getting better everyday, but the utmost joy and biggest hurdle is for the Fuji lord to see successors that would preserve his hard earned rebranded Fuji -Classical Fuji and, perhaps improve on it.

Interestingly, the number of Fuji artistes willing to succeed King Wasiu Ayinde Marshall is increasing by the day, however, three (3) major musicians are likely to take over the baton when the time is ripe. These K1 sing alike Fuji artistes are influenced by his music and have a strong affection for his style. They believed that their role model has created a good path for them to tread. These guys are the disciples spreading the gospel of Classical Fuji.

The introduction of David Ojei, popularly known as David Ayinde and Ogidi Omo Arabambi into Fuji music over two decades had been interesting. He hails from Agbor in Delta state, while his mother is from Ibadan. He’s from a Christian background and grew up in Ibadan, the Oyo state capital.

David Ayinde who shared the same tune and voice with the Fuji lord, is also blessed with the delivery that can easily be taken for King Wasiu Ayinde himself. Though, the Ibadan based Fuji star never worked under K1 but he maintains a father to son relationship with the classical Fuji creator, whom he prides as a role model and mentor.

His adopted brand of Fuji music conceptualized by K1 is really opening doors for him as he enjoys patronage from his godfather’s fans and classical Fuji enthusiasts, especially in abroad. David Ayinde is loyal to the famous ‘Arabambi clan’.

Also, an Ijebu Ode born Kolade Onanuga is one of the wave making Fuji artistes who sings like King Wasiu Ayinde. Being a native of Ijebu Ode in Ogun state, the birthplace of the Fuji lord and his direct adoption as K2; Kolade has enjoyed influence and support from his mentor’s fans which has earned him different shows both in Nigeria and abroad.

He’s enjoying a worthwhile relationship with the Fuji idol; K1.

Another fantastic and experienced Classical Fuji artiste is Alhaji Ramoni Akanni. Akani is from Oke Elerin, Ogbomoso in Oyo state. His fans addressed him as RK1.

Adopting King Wasiu Ayinde’s brand of Fuji music has been paying off for RK1. He has recorded many successes through his entertainment career. Singing like the Fuji lord has also assisted him to travel around the world for musical shows, events and gained solid connections. He pays regular homage to K1.

Alhaji Ramoni Akanni’s music delivery is highly matured and well organized.