04/12/2023
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The Lijadu Sisters, Taiwo and Kehinde Lijadu, were identical twin sisters from Nigeria who gained prominence as musicians from the mid-1960s to the 1980s. Known for their unique blend of Afrobeat sounds with jazz and disco, they achieved success in their home country and also made an impact in the United States and Europe. They were considered a West African version of the Pointer Sisters.
Born on October 22, 1948, they grew up in the Nigerian city of Ibadan and were musically inspired by artists such as Aretha Franklin, Dr. Victor Abimboฬฉla Oฬฉlaiya, and Miriam Makeba. Their early successes can be attributed to the guidance of music producer Lemmy Jackson. One of their first songs was arranged with assistance from jazz saxophone player Orlando Julius.
The Lijadu Sisters released their first album, "Iya Mi Joฬฉwoฬฉ," in 1969 after securing a record contract with Decca Records. They continued to release albums like "Danger" (1976), "Sunshine" (1978), and "Horizon Unlimited" (1979), gaining popularity in Nigeria and internationally. In the late 1980s, they retired from the music scene but occasionally reunited and performed during the 2010s.
During their career, they had the opportunity to perform at notable events, including the 1972 Munich Olympic Games as part of Ginger Baker's band Salt. Their performances were characterized by their harmonious vocals, "sisterly banter and flirtatiousness," and the incorporation of positive messages in their songs.
In the United States, the Lijadu Sisters moved to Brooklyn, New York, and performed in various venues, including the acclaimed club Wetlands in Lower Manhattan. They collaborated with musicians such as King Sunny Adรฉ's African Beats and the Philadelphia-based band Philly Gumbo. Their music was featured in the music documentary "Konkombรฉ" and the Nigerian episode of the world music series "Beats of the Heart," aired on PBS in the late 1980s.
Their music continued to resonate with audiences, even after their official retirement, leading to collaborations with the Atomic! Bomb Band in tribute to Nigerian musician William Onyeabor. They appeared live in the Barbican Centre in London and also performed on The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon and tour dates in major cities in the United States.
Unfortunately, on November 9, 2019, Kehinde Lijadu suffered a stroke and passed away at the age of 71. The loss marked an end to the remarkable musical journey of the Lijadu Sisters, who left an indelible imprint on the music scene in Nigeria and beyond.
