By Sola Ojewusi
News just reaching us indicate that the world renowned Saxophonist, musician and band leader, Orlando Julius Ekemode has died.
He was said to have passed overnight, according to a Facebook post by popular music entrepreneur and critic, Bimbo Esho of Evergreen Music. Below is the text of her post:
“Bimbo Daddy Has Passed On…
This was the message I stumbled on waking up at exactly 3am to peruse my watsapp page.. It was a message sent in to me by Orlando Julius beautiful and supportive wife Lady Latoya.
Orlando Julius a native of Ijebu Ijesha succumbed to the cold hands of death and breathed his last few hours ago at the age of 79.
We shall miss one of Nigeria’s fathers of Afro/Highlife Music , a gentleman and a fine Saxophonist.
May daddy Orlando Julius soul journey well . To the entire Ekemode family may God give you the fortitude to bear this irreplaceable loss.
Bimbo Esho”
The Lagosian learnt that the prolific artiste had been battling old age related ailments for a while before he finally succumbed to nature’s call.
Orlando Julius would be remembered for his huge contribution to the world of Highlife music.
More on this sad development shortly.