Who Is Eugene De Coque: The Life And Times of The Highlife Legend

Introduction

Highlife music has always been a huge part of the West African music culture, and one of its most prominent figures was Chief Oliver de Coque, popularly known as Eugene De Coque. Eugene De Coque was a Nigerian musician who rose to fame in the 1970s and became a household name in the music industry. This article aims to take a deeper look into who Eugene De Coque was, his life, career, and the impact he had on the music industry.

Early Life and Education

Eugene De Coque was born Oliver Sunday Akanite on April 14, 1947, in Ezinifite, Nnewi South Local Government Area, Anambra State, Nigeria. He was the son of a traditional Igbo blacksmith and grew up in a family that was not wealthy. Despite this, he showed a keen interest in music from a young age and began playing the guitar at the age of 11.

De Coque's family was not initially supportive of his music ambitions, and he had to use his pocket money to buy his first guitar. However, his talent was evident, and he continued to practice and improve his skills.

Career

In the mid-1960s, Eugene De Coque formed his first band, the School boy Quintet, which performed at school social events and parties. However, he gained national recognition in 1977 with the release of his hit album "Ana Enwe Obodo Enwe." The album was an instant success and put him on the map as one of the best highlife musicians in Nigeria.

Eugene De Coque was known for his unique sound, which blended traditional Igbo music with highlife, jazz, and soul music. His music was characterized by his soulful voice, melodic guitar playing, and the use of percussion instruments such as the conga and the shekere.

Over the course of his career, Eugene De Coque released over 73 albums and collaborated with various musicians both in Nigeria and internationally. He also toured extensively, performing in countries such as the United Kingdom, the United States, Germany, and France.

Impact on the Music Industry

Eugene De Coque's contribution to the Nigerian music industry cannot be overstated. He was a pioneer of modern highlife music and played a significant role in shaping the sound of contemporary Nigerian music.

His music was not only entertaining but also had a cultural and social significance. He sang about various issues affecting Nigerian society, including corruption, poverty, and cultural identity. His music was a reflection of the struggles and aspirations of the Igbo people and helped to preserve their cultural heritage.

In addition to his music, Eugene De Coque was also known for his philanthropic activities. He supported various causes, including education, healthcare, and youth empowerment.

Personal Life

Eugene De Coque was married to Nwakaego Ebelenna, and they had six children together. He was a devout Catholic and was known for his strong faith. He was also a traditionalist and believed in the importance of preserving Igbo culture and traditions.

In 1997, Eugene De Coque was involved in a car accident that left him paralyzed from the waist down. Despite this, he continued to perform and record music until his death in 2008.

Legacy

Eugene De Coque's legacy continues to live on long after his death. He is remembered as one of the greatest musicians in Nigeria and Africa as a whole. His music continues to be enjoyed by audiences both young and old, and his influence can be heard in the music of many contemporary Nigerian musicians.

In 2012, a street in Lagos, Nigeria, was named after him in recognition of his contribution to the music industry. He was also posthumously awarded the Nigerian National Merit Award, the highest honor awarded to Nigerian citizens for their contributions to national development and unity.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Eugene De Coque was a legendary musician who helped to shape the sound of modern Nigerian music. His unique sound, cultural relevance, and philanthropic activities made him a beloved figure not only in Nigeria but also internationally. Today, his music continues to inspire and entertain, and his legacy serves as an inspiration to many aspiring musicians.