Chief Femi Esho, chairman of Evergreen Musical Company and founder of the Evergreen Music Heritage Foundation, has passed away at the age of 77 after a brief illness. His daughter, Bimbo Esho, announced his death on Tuesday in Lagos, describing him as a revered figure in Nigeria’s music industry.
In her statement, Bimbo Esho referred to her father as Samuel Babafemi Esho, affectionately known as Baba Esho or Baba Musician. She highlighted his significant contributions to Nigerian music, particularly in genres like Highlife, Juju, Sakara, Apala, Afrobeat, and other indigenous African music styles. Chief Femi Esho was celebrated not only as a chairman and founder but also as a mentor and “encyclopedia” to many music enthusiasts and practitioners.
His legacy includes his dedication to preserving and promoting Nigerian musical heritage through the Evergreen Musical Company and the foundation he established. Chief Femi Esho’s impact on Nigerian music culture ensures that he will be remembered fondly as a pivotal figure who dedicated his life to the “immortality” of Nigeria’s rich musical traditions.