Daddy Showkey: From ghetto to grace, celebrates 50 years on stage

Nigerian music legend Daddy Showkey is set to mark a remarkable 50-year milestone on stage with a golden jubilee concert on August 9 at the Eko Hotel and Suites in Lagos. The venue holds special significance, as it was the site of his first performance nearly five decades ago during the hotel's opening ceremony in 1977.

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Eko Hotel opened in 1977, and I performed an acrobatic display during the opening ceremony.

Showkey, who will turn 56 on August 4, reminisced about his early days during a visit to Vanguard headquarters. He described his journey as one of "ghetto to grace," highlighting moments of survival, music, and what he calls miracles. His path included scavenging for aluminum in Ajegunle to make ends meet before birthing the unique Galala music genre.

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My journey has simply been from ghetto to grace.

The entertainer, easily recognized by his signature dreadlocks, also stressed the importance of parents documenting their children's talents and growth. He pointed to his own career, which began with television appearances at just six years old, as proof that early talent can be discovered and nurtured. Showkey's upcoming concert aims to celebrate this half-century of contribution to the Nigerian music scene.

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People think it is impossible to discover a child’s talent at a young age, but I am living proof that it is possible.