Veteran Nigerian Waka singer Queen Salawa Abeni has reflected on her five-decade journey in the music industry, sharing insights into her personal life, family and resilience during an appearance on Morayo Show ahead of her 50th anniversary celebration.
The singer, who began recording music as a teenager, said she was excited and happy to hear people speak positively about her, expressing gratitude for the recognition while acknowledging members of her family, from her mother to her grandchildren.
Speaking about leadership and raising her family, Queen Abeni described a journey marked by setbacks and renewed determination. Although much of her response was in Yoruba, she conveyed that she had experienced periods of rising and falling but remained committed to doing her best and continuing to improve.
Reflecting on her personal life, particularly her experience with marriage, the Waka music icon said destiny does not always unfold as planned. She explained that she had tried to make marriage work but, when it did not, she chose to focus on her music career.
Asked how she discovered that her voice was unique, Queen Abeni attributed her talent to divine grace, saying she did not initially recognise what made her voice special.
The conversation also touched on her family life, with her children, Sheriffdeen, popularly known as Big Sheff, and Okikiola Aminat, known as Candy or Oliki Candylassy, discussing their childhood and experiences of growing up with their mother.
Abeni’s musical journey dates back to 1976, when she released her first album at the age of 15, having started singing even earlier. Her forthcoming celebration will mark 50 years since that milestone, honouring a career that has made her one of the notable figures in Nigeria’s Waka music tradition.
The anniversary celebration is scheduled for Sunday, October 18, 2026, at the Oriental Hotel in Victoria Island, Lagos, marking five decades of Queen Salawa Abeni’s contribution to Nigeria’s music industry and her enduring legacy as one of the country’s leading Waka music performers.
