Gentleman Mike Ejeagha is 90 years old and currently trending on social media. This revival occurred after his 1983 single ‘Ka Esi Le Onye Isi Oche’ was featured in a viral video by comedian and sketch creator Brain Jotter.
While many young social media users are discovering him through the popular “Gwo Gwo Gwo Ngwo” phrase from this song, there’s much more to this great musician than just one viral moment.
Early life and musical beginnings
Gentleman Mike Ejeagha was born in August 1932 in Imezi Owa, Enugu State. His musical career began in primary school with an Ogene ensemble. His fascination with the guitar began when he saw Moses Aduba (commonly known as Moscow) and Cyprian Uzochiawa strumming it.
Ejeagha learned quickly and mastered the guitar, establishing the groundwork for his future musical career.
Formation of the Merry-makers
In 1950, Ejeagha made a huge step forward by founding his band, Mike Ejeagha and the Merry-makers. In a 2009 interview with “Last FM,” Gentleman Mike Ejeagha revealed that his nickname “Gentleman” was inspired by his gracious nature and how he respects others.
Ejeagha’s musical career began in elementary school as a member of an Ogene group.
He became interested in the guitar after seeing Moses Aduba, commonly known as Moscow, and Cyprian Uzochiawa perform at Enugu’s Coal Camp. He learned from both musicians and improved his guitar talents over time.
By 1950, he had mastered the guitar sufficiently to create his own band, Mike Ejeagha and the Merrymakers. His journey to stardom was expedited when Atu Ona, the then-Controller of the Nigerian Broadcasting Service (NBS), noticed him and invited him to an audition.
This opportunity led to his own radio show, “Guitar Playtime,” where he not only performed music but also created musical spectacles. His radio popularity helped him form a larger band, the Premier Dance Band.
How he started – post-war fame
Ejeagha’s music career took off following the Nigerian Civil War, when he published the album ‘Omekagu’ with Polygram Records, which was a watershed moment in his career, and then with Phillips Records.
Following that, he was contacted by the Anambra Broadcasting Service (now known as the Enugu State Broadcasting Service, ESBS) to conduct a show called ‘Akuko n’egwu’ (music-based narrative).
Every week on this presentation, he told a new folktale, dazzling his audience with Igbo culture’s rich oral traditions.
What sets him apart
Gentleman Mike Ejeagha distinguishes himself with his ability to incorporate complex social, cultural, and moral storylines into his music. Using idioms, proverbs, and folklore, he has produced a rich tapestry of Igbo culture that appeals to both young and old audiences.
His music teaches and preserves his people’s tradition, rather than simply entertaining them.
Gentleman Mike Ejeagha is known for his Igbo folk music, which has social, cultural, historical, and moral themes. His music, which incorporates idioms, proverbs, and folktales, has cemented his place as one of Nigeria’s most acclaimed Igbo folk and Highlife singers.
Enduring influence and a biography documentary
With over 33 CDs to his name, Ejeagha’s work has helped define modern Igbo folk music. His recent rise in popularity, mainly to social media, demonstrates the enduring appeal of his music.
Plans for a biographical documentary are ongoing, with the goal of introducing new generations to his life and art.
