Celebrating King Sunny Ade with 9 of his biggest songs

Chief Sunday Adeniyi Adegeye also known as King Sunny Ade was born on this day in 1960.

One of the most recognizable Yoruba personalities, he was born into a royal family in Akure. His father was a church organist, while his mother, Maria Adegeye was a trader.

Ade left grammar school in order to pursue his career in Lagos. His career began when he joined Moses Olaiya's, 'Federal Rhythm Dandies', a highlife band. He left to form a new band, 'The Green Spots' in 1967. The name of his band has been changed several times for various reasons.

King Sunny was influenced by Juju pioneer, Tunde Nightingale who he borrowed stylistic elements from his ‘So we mbe’ style of juju.

Sunny Ade's music is characterized by indigenous drum instruments.

Ade won lots of awards in his career. Aside from his music career, Ade has also been featured in some Hollywood movies. He founded the King Sunny Ade Foundation amongst others.

We commemorate his 74th birthday with 9 of his biggest songs.

1. Ja Funmi


2. Mo Ti Mo


3. Merciful God


4. Ma jaiye oni


5. Let them say


6. Synchro feelings


7. Eje Nlo Gba Ara Mi


8. Samba


9. Kiti Kiti