Victor Uwaifo is a Nigerian musician and multi-talented virtuoso whose blend of highlife, juju and funk music has won him numerous international awards, including the prestigious National Order of Merit in France. He is also an accomplished sculptor, inventor, and university lecturer.
Early Life and Education
Victor Uwaifo was born on March 1, 1941, in Benin City, Edo State, Nigeria. He was the seventh child of his parents and grew up in a musical family. His father was a renowned traditional healer who also played the guitar, while his mother was a skilled vocalist and percussionist.
Uwaifo attended Western Boys High School in Benin City and later graduated from the University of Benin with a degree in Fine Arts. He also obtained a master’s degree in Sculpture from the same institution.
Career
Uwaifo’s music career began in the early 1960s when he formed a band called the Melody Maestros. In 1965, he signed a record deal with Philips West Africa and released his debut single, “Joromi,” which became a hit and launched him into the national spotlight.
Over the next few decades, Uwaifo continued to produce hit songs and albums, including “Guitar-Boy Superstar,” “Ekassa,” “African Magic,” and “Mami Water,” among others. His music was revered for its fusion of traditional and contemporary sounds, combined with his unique guitar skills and acrobatic stage performances.
In addition to music, Uwaifo is also known for his inventions, including the “magic guitar” which he created to produce unique sounds and effects. He has also authored several scholarly books on African music and culture and has served as a lecturer at the University of Benin.
Discography
- Joromi (1965)
- Ekassa (1972)
- Guitar-Boy Superstar (1978)
- African Magic (1986)
- Mami Water (1988)
- Mammy-Wata (2006)
- Legend: Best of the Best (2012)
Personal Life
Uwaifo is married and has children. He is a devout Christian and is actively involved in church activities.
Cars and House
Uwaifo is known for his love of luxury cars and owns a fleet of exotic cars, including a Mercedes Benz, a BMW, and a Porsche. He also owns a lavish mansion in his hometown of Benin City.
Net Worth
Uwaifo’s net worth is estimated to be around $2 million dollars. In Nigerian Naira, his net worth is approximately 772 million Naira. In Canadian dollars, his net worth is around $2.5 million CAD. In Ghanaian cedis, his net worth is approximately 11,569,445 GHS. In Kenyan shillings, his net worth is around 218,914,215 KES. In South African rand, his net worth is approximately 31,754,180 ZAR. In Ugandan shillings, his net worth is around 7,345,397,161 UGX. In Indian Rupees, his net worth is approximately 145,956,780 INR.
In conclusion, Victor Uwaifo is a Nigerian icon who has made immense contributions to music and the arts. His talent, creativity and innovative spirit continue to inspire generations of musicians and artists. You can listen to his music on Boomplay and follow him on his social media accounts.
