Fabled African reggae music icon Majek Fashek, originally named Majekodunmi Fasheke, gained worldwide acclaim in 1987 following the launch of his hit track, “Send Down The Rain.”
The renowned single, ‘Send down the rain,’ was reported to have concluded one of Nigeria’s worst droughts, resulting in heavy rainfall across the country.
Following that event, Fashek was labeled a ”Prophet.” He subsequently emerged as one of Africa’s most prominent and impactful reggae artists. His debut solo album, ‘Prisoner of Conscience,’ released in 1988, was claimed to have sold over 200,000 copies in Nigeria alone during that period.
Hailing from Benin City, Fashek inherited his passion for music from his mother, an Edo woman. Raised solely by her after the passing of his father when he was just 11 years old.
His mother operated a business dealing in concrete, supplying it to road constructors. She played a significant role in nurturing his musical career during her active involvement in traditional events where the Olokun rhythms accompanied the reverence of the river goddess.
As a young boy, Fashek performed the maracas during the river goddess celebrations.
His initial musical affection was for Jamaican sounds, but he also appreciated music from Indian cinema. He began playing the guitar while in secondary school, joining a band called Jah Stix. Once part of the group, Fashek started performing in venues across Ikeja, Lagos state’s capital.
Fashek, whose name is interpreted as ”power of miracles, the high priest does not live,” shared a close bond with the Afrobeat legend and activist, Fela-Anikulapo Kuti.
In homage to the reggae icon, Charles Oputa, known as Charly Boy, among several other celebrities, reminisced about recording the famed song ‘Send down the rain’ at his studio.
Charly Boy, who was the then-president of the Performing Musicians Association of Nigeria (PMAN), remarked that his first collaboration with Majek occurred 30 years ago.
“My father traveled from Lagos to Oguta, my hometown, with Majek Fashek, and he stayed with me for a year. In fact, he (Majek) crafted his hit track ‘Send down the Rain’ in my modest studio back in the village. That was where I also garnered a wealth of knowledge from him regarding music.
“Majek was not only handsome but also immensely talented as an artist, and his lyrical prowess was remarkable as his lyrics carried significant weight and revolutionary themes. While there were numerous gifted musicians during his time, the essence of his songs resonated deeply, which is why I held him in high regard,” he shared.
Charly Boy, affectionately known as the Area Father, stated that although Fashek has departed, his ageless music will continue to resonate due to the inspiration it imparts.
Majek Fashek was 57 years old at the time of his passing.
