Alhaja Hawawu Alake-Adisa, a living music legend popularly known as “Iya Aladuke, abolodefeloju” has said that an unforgettable incidence in her career was when she lost her grandchild to an accident in a gifted vehicle.
The 86-year-old creator of “Senwele” Yoruba music genre, told newsmen in Ilorin that the accident occurred three days after she took delivery of the vehicle given to her by her fan.
“Being a musician is a difficult task because it has a lot to do with metaphysical power. I recall many years back when I sang and was given a vehicle.
“On the third day I got the gift, I was involved in a fatal accident that claimed my grandchild and the vehicle was written off.
“I had so many ugly experiences and I saw a lot as a musician that almost discouraged me. I wanted to back out, but I persisted,” she said.
Iya Aladuke said music in those days was believed to be associated with metaphysical powers, adding that this informed her decision not to encourage any of her children to take after her.
The musician, who spoke in Yoruba language said, “Music in those days was not a profession you would like to hand over to your children.
“Can anyone give birth to a child and send him to choose commercial driving as a profession? The plan of every parent was for his or her children to go to school to study and become lawyers, engineers and doctors,“ she said.
The Octogenarian, who is still active in music, said, however, that the trend had changed with music because many youths were taking to the profession.
She said many young musicians had adapted her brand, sewele, for secular and religious purposes.
“I am the authentic Iya Aladuke, the creator of Senwele, but so many musicians have adapted my brand of music even for the gospel.
“Now, there are many musicians singing senwele and they are doing well. My music has also been used for Nollywood movies,” she added.
Iya Aladuje said “senwele” was a Divine gift to her, adding that she did not learn the music from anyone but she got her inspiration from God.
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