By Mardiyyah Abubakar
Legendary Nigerian juju musician King Sunny Ade has received birthday tributes from Ondo State Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa and fans as he turns 80.
In a birthday message on Tuesday, Aiyedatiwa described the musician as a distinguished son of Ondo Kingdom and one of the state’s foremost cultural ambassadors.
The governor said King Sunny Ade had used his music to promote Ondo State’s culture, language and traditions while taking Nigerian juju music to audiences around the world.
Aiyedatiwa also praised his contribution to Nigerian music and influence on generations of artistes.
Fans also celebrated the musician on social media, describing him as a legend and icon while wishing him good health and long life.
Born Sunday Adeniyi Adegeye on September 22, 1946, King Sunny Ade began his musical career in the 1960s and formed his own band in 1967, later known as the African Beats.
He gained international recognition after signing with Island Records in the early 1980s. His albums Juju Music and Synchro System helped introduce Nigerian juju music to international audiences.
Synchro System earned him a Grammy nomination in 1984, making him the first Nigerian artiste to receive a Grammy nomination. He later received another nomination for Odu.
