William Onyeabor’s Family Celebrates His Legacy on His 79th Birthday

The family of legendary Nigerian musician and electronic funk pioneer, William Onyeabor, has honored his memory on what would have been his 79th birthday.

In a heartfelt statement, his sons—Charles, Emeka, and Chika Onyeabor—celebrated their father’s enduring musical legacy, describing his work as a testament to African creativity.

“Our father was more than just a musician; he was a force of nature, a man who saw the future of sound and embraced it long before the world caught on. His music was a message, a movement, and a testament to the limitless possibilities of African creativity,” the family said.

Onyeabor: The Afro-Funk Visionary Ahead of His Time

William Onyeabor was far from an ordinary musician. His electronic-infused Afro-funk sound made him a unique figure in Nigerian music history. Best known for hits like “Better Change Your Mind,” “Fantastic Man,” and “Atomic Bomb”, Onyeabor’s use of synthesizers and futuristic soundscapes set him apart in an era dominated by highlife and Afrobeat.

Despite his relative reclusiveness, his influence transcended generations. His music saw a global resurgence in the 2010s, with artists and music lovers worldwide rediscovering his experimental sound. The 2013 compilation album "Who Is William Onyeabor?" introduced his work to a new audience, further solidifying his impact.

Opinion: A Legacy That Deserves More Recognition

While Onyeabor’s family is committed to keeping his legacy alive, one can’t help but wonder—is Nigeria truly giving him the recognition he deserves?

In a country that celebrates music legends like Fela Kuti and Sunny Ade, Onyeabor’s groundbreaking contributions to African electronic music remain underrated. His bold experimentation paved the way for the genre-fluidity seen in modern Afrobeats, yet his name isn’t as widely acknowledged in Nigeria as it should be.

As we celebrate his 79th birthday, perhaps it’s time for the Nigerian music industry to do more—to honor his contributions, archive his works, and introduce his genius to new generations.

His sons put it best: “The world may have lost our father, but his music and spirit are eternal.”

What are your thoughts? Have you listened to Onyeabor’s music before? Let’s discuss!