RENOWNED cultural icon, Jimi Solanke is dead.
The 82-year-old dramatist, folk singer, playwright and poet passed on in the early hours of today, Monday, 5 February after a brief illness. He reportedly died en route to the Olabisi Onabanjo University Teaching Hospital.
Confirming the sad development, veteran actor and culture advocate, Ropo Ewenla, shared the WhatsApp message by the CEO of Concrete Communications Ltd, Semoore Badejo.
The message, titled “The World Has Lost A Golden, Unique, Distinct Voice!,” reads: “I am not bold enough to announce his passage. I am earnestly waiting for a refusal. It’s a bitter pill to swallow.
“Eyin t’aye kan e s’aye ‘re. ( Those of you that are left behind, try and make the world a better place. Sir (Uncle) Jimi Solanke, KCW dropped the golden admonition. I am yet to write.
“Sir ‘Semoore Badejo.”
A native of Ipara-Remo, Ogun State, Solanke was born on 4 July 1942. He graduated from the University of Ibadan, where he obtained a diploma certificate in Drama.
After graduation, Solanke moved to the United States, where he created a drama group called The Africa Review, focusing on African culture. Members of this group usually put on African clothing, specifically Yoruba costume.
Solanke established himself in Los Angeles, California, where his storytelling career began. He was described as a “master storyteller” by CNN.
Pa Jimi Solanke’s artistic journey began as a pioneer member of the Orisun Theatre Group, founded by the renowned Wole Soyinka, in 1961. His contributions to the global entertainment industry spanned seven decades, leaving an indelible mark on various platforms, from Western Nigeria Television in the 1960s to international festivals in Senegal and Algeria during the 1970s.
Solanke’s versatility shone through in epic performances such as “Death and the King’s Horseman,” “Kurunmi,” “Kongi’s Harvest,” “The Divorce,” and “Ovaramwen Nogbaisi.”
His captivating stagecraft and theatrical brilliance earned him accolades and recognition, both locally and internationally.
The Oxford Times hailed him as a “Skilled Nigerian Actor,” and the New York Times recognised him as the star of an “Excellent Troupe” during a performance of Wole Soyinka’s “Kongi’s Harvest.”
Affectionately known as Baba Agba, Solanke was more than just an actor; he was a consummate quintessential songwriter, performer, visual artist, and storyteller extraordinaire.
Described as “a better singer than an actor” by those who witnessed his enchanting performances, he often referred to himself as an “actor-singer,” seamlessly merging his acting prowess with musical delivery.
His impact extended beyond the stage and screen, as Pa Solanke was the Founder and Artistic Director of Ibudo Asa in Ipara Remo, Remo North Local Government, Ogun State, Nigeria.
He leaves behind a legacy that transcends borders, resonating in the hearts of those who had the privilege to witness his artistry.
Pa Jimi Solanke is survived by his wife, Chief (Mrs) Toyin Solanke, and his passing marks the end of an era in Nigerian entertainment, leaving a void that will be felt for years to come.
The cultural ambassador extraordinaire has left an indomitable imprint on the history of African arts and will be remembered for his contributions to the enrichment of the nation’s cultural heritage.
Eighteen-Eleven Media