Oliver De Coque, born Oliver Sunday Akanite on April 14, 1947, in Ezinifite, Nnewi South LGA, Anambra State, Nigeria, was a highly influential Nigerian musician and guitarist. From a young age, he harbored a deep passion for music, drawing inspiration from the likes of Bobby Benson and Victor Olaiya.
Early Career and the Birth of Ogene Sound
De Coque’s musical journey began in the mid-1960s as a member of the Paradise Rhythm Band. He later founded his own group, Expo ’76, and gained widespread recognition in the 1980s and 1990s. He pioneered a distinctive style of highlife music, which he christened “Ogene Sound Super of Africa.”
Musical Style and Philanthropic Legacy
His music was renowned for its socially conscious lyrics, addressing pertinent issues within Nigerian society. He released numerous successful albums, including “Identity,” “Biri Ka Mbiri,” “Uwa Bu Aja,” and “Ana Enwe Obodo Enwe.” These works showcased a unique blend of traditional Igbo music, highlife, and contemporary African pop.
Beyond his musical prowess, Oliver De Coque was also a dedicated philanthropist, leveraging his music to champion various causes. He served as a patron of the International Society for Social Justice and Human Rights, actively supporting their initiatives to promote human rights across Nigeria and other African nations.
Remembering a Highlife Icon
Oliver De Coque passed away on June 20, 2008, at the age of 61, following a brief illness. He left an indelible mark on Nigerian music and is widely celebrated as one of the greatest highlife musicians of all time, with his legacy continuing to inspire new generations of artists in Nigeria and beyond.
