From the stable of Celestine Obiakor and His Entertainment Group comes this epic Igbo folklore song Iyoro Nnem.
“Iyoro Nnem” is an old Igbo classic that has stood the test of time. This track embodies the rich cultural essence and storytelling tradition that Igbo music is known for. Celestine Obiakor, more famously recognized as Celestine Ukwu, embarked on his musical journey in the 1960s, performing with Michael Ejeagha’s Paradise Rhythm Orchestra in Enugu, the capital of the former Eastern Region of Nigeria.
After four years, Celestine left the band to establish his own group, the Music Royals. However, the outbreak of the Biafran War from 1967 to 1970 temporarily halted his musical career. Following the war, he resurrected his band under a new name, the Philosophers National. This new ensemble distinguished itself with a series of refined and thoughtful highlife releases throughout the 1970s, gaining them a devoted following.
Tragically, Celestine Ukwu’s promising career was cut short when he perished in an automobile accident in 1977. His death marked the loss of one of Nigeria’s most brilliant musical talents, but his legacy continues to live on through timeless classics like “Owu Mbiala,” “Igede,” and “Iyoro Nnem,” which still resonates with fans of Igbo highlife music today.
- Song: Iyoro Nnem
- Artist: Celestine Obiakor
- Band/Label: Philosophers National
- Duration: 6:23
Celestine Obiakor Iyoro Nnem mp3 download.