••• He Died at 29 but His Music Still Speaks
Akure — More than five decades after the death of Nigeria’s juju music prodigy, Wale Glorious (1942–1971), his son, Kenny Wale Glorious, has appealed to the Ondo State Government to immortalize his father by transforming his burial site into a Memorial Park and Music Heritage Centre.
Kenny made the call in an interview with journalists in Akure, describing his father as “a special being” whose exceptional talent and creativity still inspire generations of musicians.
“He didn’t learn any of the instruments he played,” Kenny said. “Nobody taught him before he became a master of both the guitar and the piano. He composed all his songs himself at that tender age. His gift was divine.”
Born in 1942, Wale Glorious rose to prominence in the 1960s with his Aiyesoro Spots Band, bringing a refreshing energy to the evolving juju sound. His timeless hit album, Igbeyawo (meaning marriage in Yoruba), remains a musical treasure that captures the joy and rhythm of Yoruba culture.
Kenny recalled that his father, who died at just 29, was adored for his soulful singing, graceful dance, and humility.
“He was loved by everyone because of how he sang and danced whenever he performed,” he said. “He was also very hospitable and accommodating — everyone who met him felt his warmth.”
He noted that despite his short life, Wale Glorious’ songs remain evergreen, standing among the finest juju compositions ever recorded in Nigeria.
“That’s why I’m called Kenny Wale Glorious,” he explained. “We’re following his footsteps not just in music but also in good virtues and positive behavior. His life remains our biggest inspiration.”
Kenny urged the Ondo State Government and cultural institutions to collaborate with the family to preserve his father’s legacy by turning his resting place into a tourist-friendly heritage site.
“My father deserves that honour,” he added. “He gave his all to music and humanity. Let the world have a place to connect with his spirit and his songs.”
Wale Glorious, known for songs like Igbeyawo, Akure Oloyemekun, and Kawasile Iwe, was part of the first generation of juju pioneers whose work laid the foundation for later icons like Ebenezer Obey and King Sunny Adé.
