Waka music maestro, Alhaja Batili Alake is dead. The waka queen was said to have died in the early hours of Saturday on her way to observe her early morning subhi prayer. The prominent Nigerian singer died at the age of 78.
Born in Ijebu - Igbo, Ogun State, she popularised the Islamic-inspired, Yoruba genre by playing at concerts and parties throughout Yorubaland, and was the first waka singer to wax an album. She was active during the 1950s up till the 1970s.
In his reaction to her death, Ogun State governor, Senator Ibikunle Amosun, described Alhaja Batili Alake as a humble trailblazer. The governor said her death was a great loss to the music industry, Ogun State and Nigeria in general.
“Despite being the first singer to wax an album, she remained a symbol of humility, giving glory to Allah throughout her sojourn on earth. Alhaja led an exemplary life,’’ the governor said.
Speaking on the passage of waka queen, Bonsue Fuji singer, Adewale Ayuba, described the death of Alake as a great loss to the music industry, saying she will be sorely missed. “Mama Alake’s death was shocking. I pray that God will give the family she left behind and the music industry the fortitude to bear the loss.’’
Also commenting on the passage of the pioneer of waka music in the country, Ibadan-based fuji singer, Alhaji Rasidi Ayinde, also known as Merenge, said her death has robbed the music industry of another legendary singer, who lived a humble life throughout her stay in life. Merenge commiserated with the family of the deceased and prayed to the God to grant her eternal rest in Aljanah Firdaus.
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