Highlife legend Mike Ejeagha’s tribute to comedian Brain Jotter, aka Chukwuebuka Emmanuel, was given new life by a viral social media challenge that led to the release of the 1983 film “gwo gwo ngwo.”
Ejeagha passed away on Friday at the age of 95.
Brain Jotter posted a throwback video of the late musician on Instagram on Saturday, saying, “39 years ago, he made magic. 39 years later, we re-danced to it. He is now resting, but his melody will always live. Rest in peace, legend.
After his skit featuring the track Ka Esi Le Onye Isi Oche propelled the decades-old song into a viral sensation, the comedian had visited Ejeagha at his Enugu home in July 2024.
The veteran musician watched a new generation embrace his timeless work with teary eyes as a result of the encounter.
During the visit, Ejeagha’s son had remarked, “Thank you for returning my father’s legacy.” This is the most attention his music has received in more than 30 years. Additionally, Brain Jotter and his team thanked the family for their support and donation of $2 million.
READ MORE about Mike Ejeagha’s classic Sparks Viral Dance Challenge, “Gwo Gwo Ngwo.”
Obi Mourn, Tinubu, and Atiku
The veteran singer passed away shortly after the song went viral, which prompted a wave of tributes. Bola Tinubu, president, set the tone.
Ejeagha was described as “one of Nigeria’s greatest folklorists, songwriters, and musicians in the Igbo language” by his Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, in a statement.
“Mike Ejeagha inspired generations by his unique storytelling style and musical style, preserving and projecting Igbo culture and customs.
The music of Gentleman Mike Ejeagha continues to inspire us that music has the power to rekindle, heal, and direct energy toward good causes that advance our country, said Tinubu.
The president also praised Enugu State Governor Peter Mbah for acknowledging Ejeagha’s contributions while he was still alive, including changing the name of a major Abakpa Nike road to Chief Mike Ejeagha Road.
Atiku Abubakar, the legendary politician’s former vice president, praised the viral challenge as a source of joy in his final months.
It is heartwarming to note that Brain Jotter’s performance included the encore dance “Gwo gwo gwo ngwo” by highlife legend Mike Ejeagha before the curtain was drawn. Gentleman Mike Ejeagha, “Atiku wrote on X,” is the best in music.
Peter Obi, a member of the Labour Party, described Ejeagha as a “cultural custodian.” His voice will continue to ring out through generations as testaments to wisdom, culture, and truth as he enters a new era, but not his voice.
Obi praised his lyrics, which were full of proverbs and folklore, as moral compasses for both young and old.
Ejeagha was described as “a legend, cultural ambassador, and revered son of Enugu State,” according to Governor Peter Mbah, who also had sentiments.
Mbah promised to make the musician’s memory more immortal, noting that “his death leaves a huge void that will be difficult to fill.”
Reimagined as a violent sensation
The song was first released in 1983 as part of Akuko Na Egwu Vol. A clever tortoise deceives an elephant to win a princess’s favor in marriage, according to the first album.
The comedic reenactment of the elephant chasing the tortoise in Brain Jotter’s skit quickly dominated TikTok and Instagram, generating over 28 million views in a week.
Two dancers meet, perform an unusual leg shuffle, and then one suddenly vanishes while the other chases, resembling the song’s vivid imagery.
The dance sparked a flurry of nostalgia and excitement all over, including Super Falcons and celebrities.
International participants eventually joined the dance challenge, with many others coming from other countries.
Source: Channels TV
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