Fatai Rolling Dollar

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Fatai Rolling Dollar
Birth nameOlayiwola Fatai Olagunju
Also known asFatai Rolling Dollar
Born(1927-07-22)22 July 1927
British Nigeria
Died12 June 2013(2013-06-12) (aged 85)
Lagos, Nigeria
GenresJuju, Highlife
Occupation(s)Singer-songwriter, instrumentalist
Instrument(s)Guitar, vocals

Olayiwola Fatai Olagunju, known professionally as Fatai Rolling Dollar (22 July 1927 – 12 June 2013), was a Nigerian jùjú singer, songwriter and multi-instrumentalist, described by the BBC as a "nationally celebrated performer."[1][2][3]

Biography

He started his musical career in 1953 and had mentored a number of musicians including Ebenezer Obey and the late Orlando Owoh. He was known for his dexterity at playing the guitar, Rolling Dollar's last major hit was "Won Kere Si Number Wa".

In 1957, he formed an eight-piece band called Fatai Rolling Dollar and his African Rhythm Band, and they recorded numerous seven-inch singles for Phillips West Africa Records.[4]

Death

He died peacefully in his sleep. He was buried in Ikorodu, Lagos[5] He was the oldest surviving music artist in Nigeria.[4]

Discography

Album

Year Album Title Label
2002 Returns[6] Jazz Hole (Nig) Ltd.
2004 Won Kere Si Number[7] Jazz Hole (Nig) Ltd.
2010 Beleke[8] 51 Lex Records

References

  1. ^ "Fatai Rolling Dollar dies: Nigeria's Jonathan pays tribute". BBC News. 13 June 2013.
  2. ^ Samuel Abulude, "Nigeria: Pa Fatai Rolling Dollar – a Music Icon", AllAfrica, 16 June 2013.
  3. ^ ""Last pictures of Fatai Rolling Dollars", whisperNigeria.net". Archived from the original on 26 February 2014. Retrieved 26 February 2014.
  4. ^ a b "Highlife singer, Fatai Rolling Dollar dies @ 85", Vanguard, 12 June 2013.
  5. ^ Njoku, Benjamin; Aina, Iyabo (13 June 2013). "Fatai Rolling Dollar buried". The Vanguard. Retrieved 14 November 2014.
  6. ^ Fatai Rolling Dollar releases 'Return'
  7. ^ Fatai Rolling Dollar - Won Kere Si Number
  8. ^ 51Lex Records Presents Beleke - Apple Music