Oliver De Coque: The Guitar Virtuoso of Igbo Highlife. Who was he?

Oliver De Coque holding his signature Guitar 

Oliver De Coque: The Guitar Virtuoso of Igbo Highlife Music

Who was Oliver De Coque?

Oliver Sunday Akanite, widely recognized as Oliver De Coque, was a legendary figure in Nigerian highlife music. Known as the "Guitar Wizard" of Igbo highlife, Oliver's unique blend of traditional Igbo Ogene music and modern highlife rhythms made him a standout in the African music scene. Born on April 14, 1947, in Ezinifite, Nnewi South Local Government Area, Anambra State, his musical journey was shaped by Igbo culture and an early love for the guitar.

Early Life and Musical Journey

Oliver De Coque’s early exposure to music was fueled by his love for traditional Igbo sounds. Growing up in Ezinifite, a town deeply rooted in Igbo customs, Oliver was influenced by local musical traditions. He first learned to play the guitar as a teenager, with Congolese soukous music—particularly the guitar stylings of Dr. Nico—serving as his primary inspiration. His fusion of this style with traditional Igbo rhythms would go on to define his career.

In the early 1970s, Oliver honed his skills as a session guitarist, working with various Nigerian bands. His breakthrough came when he joined Sunny Agaga's Lucky Star Band. By the late 1970s, Oliver formed his own group, Oliver De Coque and His Expo 76 Ogene Sound Super of Africa, and began to make a significant mark on the Nigerian highlife music scene.

Oliver De Coque’s Music and Style

Oliver De Coque’s music fused the highlife genre with traditional Igbo Ogene sounds. His intricate guitar riffs, coupled with vibrant percussion, created a sound that was both contemporary and deeply rooted in Igbo culture. Known for his electric guitar wizardry, Oliver’s music was energetic, with themes of love, unity, resilience, and cultural pride. His music was not just entertainment—it was a reflection of the richness of Igbo heritage.

Oliver’s performances were electrifying, often featuring him in traditional Igbo attire, which highlighted his deep cultural connection. His music was always accompanied by pulsating rhythms, powerful vocals, and captivating guitar solos, making him one of the most respected figures in African highlife music.

Album art cover of Oliver De Coque 

Music and Style

Oliver’s music was a blend of traditional Igbo Ogene music and highlife, enriched by his mastery of the guitar. His style was energetic and intricate, earning him the nickname “The Guitar Wizard.” His songs were not only melodious but also deeply reflective, often addressing themes of love, culture, unity, and the celebration of life.

One of his standout traits was his ability to create highly engaging guitar riffs that complemented his soulful vocals. His performances were electrifying, characterized by vibrant traditional costumes and the seamless interplay of guitars, drums, and other percussive instruments.

Notable Hits

Oliver released over 93 albums during his career, producing countless hits that continue to resonate with fans today. Some of his most iconic songs include:

1. “Biri Ka Mbiri”: Encouraging resilience and perseverance.

2. “People’s Club of Nigeria”: A celebration of unity and fraternity among club members.

3. “Identity”: A reflective anthem emphasizing self-awareness and cultural pride.

His music became an essential part of celebrations, especially within Igbo communities, and his lyrics often carried messages that inspired personal growth and communal harmony.

Personal Life

Despite his fame, Oliver De Coque remained a humble and family-oriented man. He was a devout Christian who balanced his career with a deep sense of spirituality. Married with children, Oliver took pride in raising a family that cherished Igbo traditions.

 Is Oliver De Coque alive? (Legacy and Impact)

Oliver De Coque at his youthful age 

Oliver De Coque passed away on June 20, 2008, but his influence on Nigerian and African music remains immense. He is celebrated as one of the most prolific highlife musicians of all time. His music has inspired generations of artists, including contemporary highlife musicians like Flavour and Phyno.

Oliver’s legacy is not just in the melodies he left behind but in the cultural pride he instilled in millions of fans. He is remembered as a master of his craft and a custodian of Igbo heritage, ensuring that highlife music remains a vibrant expression of African culture.