By Fejiro Oruoghor
Adedoyin Oseni stands out among the constellation of musical virtuosos, wielding his saxophone like a magician casting spells of enchantment.
From Nigeria, Oseni’s journey through the worlds of arts reveals a story of cultural voyage and auditory brilliance, culminating in an appealing ode to Nigeria’s freedom during his concert in partnership with the Nigerian Student’s Society, Huddersfield chapter.
In a recent celebration of Nigeria’s independence, Oseni demonstrated his musical prowess, taking the audience on an unforgettable journey through Nigeria’s melodic legacy. Each note he played carried listeners to the heart of Nigeria, generating feelings of nostalgia and growing pride in the country’s musical tradition.
Oseni exhibited his versatility by seamlessly navigating genres and styles, from the thunderous chords of the national anthem to the sorrowful refrains of classics such as Ebenezer Obey’s “Gbebe mi” and Christy Essien Igbokwe’s “Seun Rere”. His performance went beyond technical brilliance, offering as a sincere tribute to the cultural threads that shapes his Nigerian identity.
Oseni’s distinguishing feature is not just his mastery of the saxophone, but also his ability to imbue each note with a variety of emotions, immersing audiences in a sensory symphony. Whether he infuses the rhythmic zeal of Fela Kuti’s “Water No Get Enemy” or the melancholy tones of Michael Jackson’s “Heal the World,” Oseni’s music has a visceral impact, affecting souls beyond boundaries.
Aside from his individual endeavors, Oseni’s involvement with the Nigerians in Huddersfield Society exemplifies his commitment to promoting cultural interchange. By encouraging guests to dress in Nigerian clothing, Oseni created an inclusive environment in which varied voices harmonized in celebration of Nigeria’s independence and cultural richness.
Looking ahead, Oseni’s path as a Nigerian-born saxophonist continues to captivate international audiences. His dedication to conserving and promoting Nigerian music exemplifies art’s ability to cross divides and unify people.
In essence, Adedoyin Oseni is more than just a saxophonist; he is a cultural custodian, a beacon of tradition, and a visionary whose melodies resound through the corridors of the spirit. With each concert, Oseni’s reputation as a Nigerian music virtuoso develops, creating a lasting feeling of musical wonder.
Oruoghor, art curator and critic writes from Lagos.