By Bimbo Esho
Èkó is a city of display and vibrancy. Its energetic, creative, and often extravagant culture shows in the way things are done—with flair, artistry, and a touch of showmanship, whether in fashion, entertainment, or everyday lifestyle.
The city has long been a socio-cultural melting pot. While largely inhabited by indigenes, Èkó also attracts Nigerians from diverse ethnic backgrounds, as well as foreigners, all living and interacting in unison.
Long before Èkó’s formal establishment, Ariya—the spirit of festivity and celebration—was already alive. The city’s musical history reveals a powerful tradition of sound passed from one generation to the next.
In the 1940s and 1950s, Lagos hosted early musical forms such as Juju Root, Sakara, Waka, Agidigbo, and Were. Pioneers like Abibu Oluwa, Tunde King, Irewolede Daniel, Togo Lawson, Domingos Justus, Ayinde Bakare, Fatai Rolling Dollar, J. O. Araba, Jolly Boys Orchestra, Dele Ojo, Tunde Nightingale, Saka Olayigbade, and Yusuf Olatunji entertained the city’s elites.
These musicians performed at exclusive clubs such as the Yoruba Tennis Club and the Waka Club, creating soundtracks for the nightlife of old Lagos.
As Nigeria moved towards Independence in the 1960s, Èkó entered the Golden Age of Highlife music. Highlife became the heartbeat of the nation, a symbol of emerging identity.
Hotels and nightclubs flourished, giving rise to a vibrant band culture. Sophisticated and charismatic band leaders held residencies, playing late into the night.
Legendary entertainment hubs included Bobby Benson’s Caban Bamboo, Roy Chicago’s Abalabi, Ambassador Hotel (of Chief Billy Friday fame), Western Hotel with Adeolu Akisanya, and the iconic Kakadu Nightclub, home to Fela Kuti.
The end of the Civil War in 1970 ushered in an era of reconstruction and reunification, powered by the oil boom.
Lagos swelled with industries, new edifices, and a confident new intelligentsia eager to define the times. The nightlife glittered with energy, attracting young billionaires, political heavyweights, and socialites.
This period marked the reformation of Juju music, led by giants like Chief Commander Ebenezer Obey and King Sunny Ade.
From Miliki Spot at Olonode to Ariya Spot at Jibowu, Lagos nights were alive with rhythm, elegance, and endless enjoyment.
To be continued…
