For fans old and new, Queen Salawa Abeni is not just a musician; she is a symbol of enduring grace and strength. In the world of Nigerian music, few female voices have achieved the legendary status of Salawa Abeni Alidu. Known widely as the “Queen of Waka Music,” her powerful lyrics and emotive voice have struck a chord with fans across generations. From her early years of musical training to her prolific rise in a male-dominated industry, She has been an institution of cultural preservation and achieved groundbreaking success. With a career spanning over four decades, she remains one of the most respected voices in Nigeria, bringing traditional Yoruba music to international stages.
Salawa Abeni was born in Ijebu Waterside, Ogun State, Nigeria, in 1961. Raised in a culture steeped in Yoruba traditions, she grew up listening to native Waka and other indigenous sounds. By age 13, she found herself on a path that would eventually lead her to redefine Waka music, a genre characterized by storytelling, social commentary, and rhythm. In 1976, Salawa Abeni released her first album, “Late General Murtala Ramat Mohammed,” which catapulted her to fame. The album became an instant hit and positioned her as a young, bold voice ready to address social and political themes.
As a teenage singer in the ‘70s, Salawa faced challenges few young girls could imagine. The music industry was largely male-dominated, and women often faced intense scrutiny. Yet, with a combination of talent and perseverance, she pushed past cultural barriers and brought her unique sound into mainstream consciousness. Her style, blending traditional Yoruba storytelling with rhythmic Waka beats, resonated with everyday Nigerians, especially women who saw their lives reflected in her lyrics. Her songs became anthems for both the struggles and joys of ordinary life.
The ’80s were transformative years for Salawa Abeni. During this decade, she was crowned the “Queen of Waka” by the Alafin of Oyo, a powerful title that recognized her role in popularizing and revolutionizing the genre. Under this title, she expanded her discography and took on new challenges, addressing themes like love, betrayal, and the challenges of womanhood. Songs like “Gentle Lady,” “Late Mary Akin,” and “My Native Land” became household hits, establishing her as a beloved cultural icon.
While she gained national fame, Salawa also became a trailblazer for Nigerian women in music. She was one of the first female musicians to perform in venues traditionally reserved for men. Her courage inspired a new generation of Nigerian female artists, showing them that they too could succeed in an industry that often limited women. Many of today’s Nigerian female music stars, from Asa to Tiwa Savage, cite her influence in paving the way for their careers.
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Despite her success, Salawa’s journey has not been without hardship. In the ‘90s, the singer faced personal and professional setbacks, including health challenges and changes in the music landscape. But rather than bowing out, she used these experiences to refine her music, crafting songs that drew even deeper on her Yoruba roots. By staying authentic, she found a way to remain relevant even as Afrobeat began to dominate the Nigerian music scene.
In recent years, Queen Salawa Abeni has witnessed a resurgence in popularity, thanks to the rise of digital music platforms. Her catalog is now accessible to a younger audience, who are discovering the raw power and beauty of Waka music. Through online streams and collaborations with contemporary Nigerian artists, she has continued to bridge generational gaps, proving that traditional music remains timeless. Her music is now celebrated not only for its sound but for its cultural impact.
Salawa Abeni’s influence extends beyond music. She is a proud advocate for women’s rights, using her platform to speak out against domestic violence and advocate for gender equality. Her songs address the struggles women face and call for respect, dignity, and equality in relationships. As a mother and grandmother, she’s also embraced the role of mentor, advising young women to remain confident, self-sufficient, and proud of their heritage.
To celebrate her legacy, several organizations have honored her contributions to Nigerian culture and music. In 2022, she was celebrated at an industry event where notable Nigerian artists paid tribute to her. For Salawa, these recognitions are affirmations of her lifelong commitment to Waka music and her cultural heritage. She often says her greatest reward is seeing young people connect with her music and keep the spirit of Waka alive.
As she enters her sixth decade in the industry, Salawa remains as passionate about her craft as ever. She continues to tour and perform, delighting fans with both classic hits and new releases. Her music has taken on an almost timeless quality, resonating with those who yearn for authenticity in an era where music often leans toward commercialization. With each performance, Salawa reaffirms her position as the “Evergreen Nightingale” of Nigerian music.
Queen Salawa Abeni’s life story is a powerful reminder of the role of cultural icons in preserving history and fostering social change. Her contributions have not only shaped Nigerian music but have also created space for conversations about women’s roles in society, identity, and pride. The nightingale of Waka, Salawa Abeni, remains an inspiration to millions, a voice that will echo through generations to come.
