Nigeria’s ‘Lady of Songs’ Dies

Nigeria mourns the death of its popular legend, Christy Essien-Igbokwe, who passed away Thursday morning at a private hospital in Lagos.

According to NEXT, family sources revealed that Mrs. Essien-Igbokwe fell ill three days before her death.

Christy Essien- Igbokwe, who was also known as Nigeria’s “Lady of Songs,” began her music career in the 70s as a refreshing sixteen-year-old woman. She released her debut album, “Freedom,” in 1976 and since then, has released 10 albums within the thirty-five years of her career span.

During that time, she also became the first female president of the Performing Musician Association of Nigeria (PMAN), and was the chairman and managing director of Soul Train entertainment.

Aside from her fame in Nigeria, Mrs. Christy Essien- Igbokwe was internationally renowned and as a singer. Her honors include the Nigerian Lady of Songs award, Africa Music Mother Award, International Special Achievement Award, World Song Festival Award, Queen of Music Award, and Outstanding Achievement in Female Uplifting award.

President of the Performing Musician Association of Nigeria, Dele Abiodun, reacted to the sudden demise of Essien-Igbokwe. He stated,

“It is a pity that the industry has lost another big artist like her. She had a passion for the industry and helped build it and sustain it.”

Flutist, Tee-Mac, also commented, “May she join Fela and other musicians who have crossed over; may they continue playing their music.”

Face2Face Africa would like to send their condolences to the family of Mrs. Christy Essien- Igbokwe in hopes that her music will continue to revitalize the spirit of her audience.

 

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