Orlando Julius Is Dead: He Dies At 79
Legendary Nigerian Highlife musician and veteran Saxophonist Orlando Julius Ekemode has joined his ancestors. He passed away in the early hours of this morning at the age of 79.
A Native of Ijebu Ijesha succumbed to the cold hands of death and breathed his last few hours ago, and he’s known for hit songs such as ‘A Dara, a Dara,’ among many other well-known songs, died just hours ago, according to Phenomenal Lagos.
His passing death was relayed by his widow, Latoya Aduke, through music promoter and Evergreen Music boss, Bimbo Esho.
Esho in an early Friday Facebook post said, “Bimbo, Daddy Has Passed On…This was the message I stumbled on waking up at exactly 3am to peruse my WhatsApp 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.”
The late singer’s deep bank of songs continued to define his identity as a brilliant multi-talented musician, even if he had been slowed down by age a few years before his death.
Last year, several stakeholders gathered in Ilesa, Osun State, to honor his 60 years on stage, highlighting his significant contribution to the profession.
Orlando Julius got along well with musicians from all over the world and of all ages, as seen by his ability to attract even younger artists such as Beautiful Nubia and Edaoto, for whom he occasionally played.