Renowned music promoter and CEO of Evergreen Musical Company Limited, Femi Esho, has passed away at 77. Esho, born on October 29, 1946, died in Lagos on Monday after a short illness.
His death was announced by the family in a press statement on Tuesday, signed by Mr. Bunmi Esho.
“We announce the passing unto glory of our Patriarch, Mr Samuel Babafemi Esho popularly known and referred to as “Baba Esho”, Baba Musician, etc.
“Baba Esho departed to greater glory on Monday 17th June 2024 after a brief illness at the age of 77 years.
“Baba Esho until his demise was the Chairman of the Evergreen Musical Company as well as the Founder of the Evergreen Music Heritage Foundation.
Baba Esho was a mentor and “encyclopedia” to many ‘Highlife music aficionados.He will be remembered as one who gave so much of himself to see to the “immortality” of the musical works of Nigerian Highlife, Juju, Sakara, Apala, Afrobeat and a crop of other Nigerian/African genres of Indigenous music,” the statement read.
The family mentioned that burial arrangements would be announced later. Tunde Fagbenle, a renowned writer and columnist, expressed his sorrow, noting that Esho made a significant impact and was known for his gentle, cheerful, and generous nature.
In May, Esho launched the Evergreen Music Heritage Foundation in collaboration with Dr. DK Olukoya. This ambitious project, set to be the largest music museum and gallery in Africa, will feature a music museum, a music library, a gallery with artist head busts, over 1,000 pictures of Nigerian musicians since 1914, and relics of their costumes and instruments. It will also include an event center, cinema theater, and recording studio, with completion expected by December.
