Viral ‘Gwo Gwo Gwo Ngwo’ Singer Mike Ejeagha Dies at 95
Family confirms singer passed away in Enugu after battling illness since 2006
The family of late Nigerian highlife icon, Mike Ejeagha, has confirmed that the 95-year-old musician died from prostate cancer on Friday, June 6, at the 32 Garrison Hospital in Enugu, Nigeria.
Speaking to the media, his eldest son, Emma Ejeagha, revealed that the legendary singer had been battling the illness since 2006. “Papa died on Friday at 8 p.m., and his body has been deposited in the mortuary. I was with him during his final moments,” he said.
Mike Ejeagha, widely celebrated for his storytelling style and deep lyrical wisdom in the Igbo language, left an indelible mark on Nigeria’s highlife music scene.
In 2023, Ejeagha’s timeless hit song “Gwo Gwo Gwo Ngwo,” originally released 41 years ago, experienced a resurgence in popularity after comedian and skit maker Brain Jotter launched a viral dance challenge. The challenge attracted over 29.1 million views and 30,000 comments on Instagram, and over 19.6 million views on TikTok.
Following the massive response, Brain Jotter paid a heartfelt visit to the music legend, presenting him with a ₦2 million cash gift in appreciation.
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Paying tribute to the late musician after his passing, Brain Jotter wrote:
“39 years ago, he made magic (Gwo Gwo Gwo Ngwo song). 39 years later, we danced to it again. Now, he rests, but his melody lives forever. Rest in peace, legend.”
Mike Ejeagha’s music and legacy continue to resonate with generations of Nigerians and lovers of African highlife music across the globe.
Source: 3news.com