Olayiwola Fatai Olagunju, known professionally as Fatai Rolling Dollar (22 July 1927 – 12 June 2013), was a Nigerian jùjú singer, songwriter and multi-instrumentalist, described by the BBC as a "nationally celebrated performer."[1][2][3]
Fatai Rolling Dollar | |
|---|---|
| Birth name | Olayiwola Fatai Olagunju |
| Also known as | Fatai Rolling Dollar |
| Born | 22 July 1927 Isale Eko, Abegede, Lagos, British Nigeria |
| Died | 12 June 2013 (aged 85) Lagos, Nigeria |
| Genres | Juju, Highlife |
| Occupation(s) | Singer-songwriter, instrumentalist |
| Instrument(s) | Guitar, vocals |
Biography
editHe started his musical career in 1953 and mentored a number of musicians including Ebenezer Obey and the late Orlando Owoh. He was known for his dexterity at playing the guitar, Rolling Dollar's last major hit was "Won Kere Si Number Wa".
In 1957, he formed an eight-piece band called Fatai Rolling Dollar and his African Rhythm Band, and they recorded numerous seven-inch singles for Phillips West Africa Records.[4]
Death
editHe died peacefully in his sleep. He was buried in Ikorodu, Lagos[5] He was the oldest surviving music artist in Nigeria.[4]
Discography
editAlbum
edit| Year | Album Title | Label |
|---|---|---|
| 2002 | Returns[6] | Jazz Hole (Nig) Ltd. |
| 2004 | Won Kere Si Number[7] | Jazz Hole (Nig) Ltd. |
| 2010 | Beleke[8] | 51 Lex Records |
References
edit- ^ "Fatai Rolling Dollar dies: Nigeria's Jonathan pays tribute". BBC News. 13 June 2013.
- ^ Samuel Abulude, "Nigeria: Pa Fatai Rolling Dollar – a Music Icon", AllAfrica, 16 June 2013.
- ^ ""Last pictures of Fatai Rolling Dollars", whisperNigeria.net". Archived from the original on 26 February 2014. Retrieved 26 February 2014.
- ^ a b "Highlife singer, Fatai Rolling Dollar dies @ 85", Vanguard, 12 June 2013.
- ^ Njoku, Benjamin; Aina, Iyabo (13 June 2013). "Fatai Rolling Dollar buried". The Vanguard. Retrieved 14 November 2014.
- ^ Fatai Rolling Dollar releases 'Return'
- ^ Fatai Rolling Dollar - Won Kere Si Number
- ^ 51Lex Records Presents Beleke - Apple Music
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