Victor Uwaifo was born in Benin City, Edo State, Nigeria in 1941. Uwaifo obtained his secondary school education at the Western Boys’ High School Benin and St. Gregory’s College Lagos, in the years 1957–1961. He studied graphics at Yaba College of Technology, Lagos and graduated with distinction in 1961–1963. He received a bachelor’s degree first class honors and a master’s degree from the University of Benin in 1994, where he studied fine and applied arts and majored in sculpture. Early in his career, Victor Uwaifo was a member of Bobby Benson‘s Highlife band in early 60s. His song “Joromi” has legendary status among his fans and his performances are characterized by his ability to play the guitar with both his feet and also his tongue. Victor Uwaifo made history in Nigeria when he won the first Golden record in Nigeria, West Africa and Africa (presented by Philips, West Africa) for his song “Joromi“. His other great song, “Guitar Boy and Mamiwater” was a huge hit in 1966. It was inspired by an encounter (which he has always maintained actually occurred) with a mami wata (mermaid) while lounging on Bar Beach in Lagos. Victor Uwaifo, who has a total of 12 golden records to date, has traveled to many countries, including the United States, Russia, Japan, United Kingdom, Bulgaria, Romania, Germany, France, Hungary, Rome, Ghana, Côte d’Ivoire, Togo, Benin Republic and others. The Federal Government of Nigeria, in appreciation of his talents and contributions to Nigeria honored him with a National Honors Merit in 1983, Member of the Order of the Niger, MON.” Uwaifo was the first professional musician in Nigeria to receive such an award. He is a Justice of the Peace (JP) and has served in many capacities. Victor Uwaifo was also appointed as the Honorable Commissioner of Arts, Culture and Tourism and Member of the State Executive Council, the highest policy-making decision body in Edo State, 2001–2003. In 1995, he was invited by the United Nations Staff Day International Committee to perform during the UN Golden Jubilee celebration. Uwaifo is cited in the Grove Dictionary of Music and Musicians. He is an Honorary Member of the Biographical Advisory Council, Cambridge, England, A member of both the Performing Right Society, And of the Advisory Board of American Heritage University, California, U.S.A.. Victor Uwaifo is the Chairman of Joromi Organization, a multi-track recording and television studio in Benin City. He runs and manages an art gallery and the Victor Uwaifo Hall of Fame. Ladies and gentlemen, This is JOROMI By SIR VICTOR UWAIFO. Enjoy yourselves.
Posted on: Mon, 19 Jan 2015 21:31:20 +0000
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