Jimi Solanke, a veteran folk singer and performer from Nigeria, passed unexpectedly following a brief illness.
The legendary poet and playwright was announced dead on Monday, February 5, at the age of 81. He died en route the Olabisi Onabanjo University Teaching hospital.
Chief Solanke who has been in and out hospital from December before he finally died, is survived by his wife, Mrs Toyin Solanke.
Born on July 4, 1942, in Ipara Remo, Jimi Solanke started his artistic journey with the Orisun Theatre Group, founded by Wole Soyinka, in 1961.
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Over seven decades, he made significant contributions to the global entertainment industry, leaving a lasting impact on platforms ranging from Western Nigeria Television in the 1960s to international festivals in Senegal and Algeria during the 1970s.
Solanke’s versatility was evident in remarkable performances, including “Death and the King’s Horseman,” “Kurunmi,” “Kongi’s Harvest,” “The Divorce,” and “Ovaramwen Nogbaisi.”
His captivating stage presence and theatrical brilliance garnered him acclaim and recognition, both on the local and international stages.
The Oxford Times praised him as a “Talented Nigerian Actor,” while the New York Times acknowledged him as the leading figure in an “Outstanding Troupe” during a rendition of Wole Soyinka’s play, “Kongi’s Harvest.”
See his photo below: