William Onyeabor has died aged 70
Nigerian legend William Onyeabor has died aged 70, a spokesperson has confirmed on Facebook.
The influential musician passed away at his home in Enugu, Nigeria following a short illness.
Onyeabor, a mysterious pioneering artist-turned-businessman, self-released nine albums of politically conscious "electronic-funk" between 1977-1985, even pressing the records at his own Wilfilms Limited plant in Nigeria. A popular figure locally - he was an honorary Justice Of The Peace, President of the local musician's union, and Chairman of the local football team - it wasn't until 2013 that he made himself a global presence with the release of compilation LP Who Is William Onyeabor? on David Byrne's Luaka Bop label.
Read a biography of Onyeabor on Luaka Bop's site.
Despite remaining reclusive Onyeabor's popularity grew, with the Atomic Bomb! Band (featuring a variety of admirers) paying tribute to his music at festivals and shows across the planet.
- Fontaines D.C. sign to XL Reocrdings and announce their fourth studio album, ROMANCE
- A. G. Cook shares new single, "Soulbreaker"
- SQUARE: four-city event in Portugal unveils creative partnerships and international artist callout
- Been Stellar further preview their forthcoming debut album with new single, "Sweet"
- Charli XCX and Troye Sivan announce Sweat tour with special guest Shygirl
- SZA is the second black woman to be honoured the Hal David Starlight Award by Songwriters Hall of Fame
- King Hannah share new single, "Davey Says"
Get the Best Fit take on the week in music direct to your inbox every Friday