Chief Dr. Oliver De Coque, born Oliver Sunday Akanite on April 14, 1947, was a legendary Nigerian highlife musician and guitarist, heralded as one of the most prolific recording artists from the country and one of the best-known highlife performers. Hailing from Ezinifite in Anambra State, Nigeria, De Coque began his music career at the tender age of 17, playing with the popular Ekpili group before forging his path as a band leader and solo artist. His style mixed modern highlife and traditional Igbo music, infusing it with an energetic beat that often featured his virtuoso guitar playing.

Chief Dr. Oliver De Coque found fame with his 1984 hit album "Identity," which introduced his music to a broader audience in Nigeria and beyond. His music often carried messages that reflected on social issues of the times and Igbo folklore, showcasing his pride in his cultural heritage. He was known for his flamboyant performances and for introducing a unique style of highlife music infused with the electrifying sounds of the electric guitar. Over the course of his career, he released over 70 albums including high-impact titles such as "Tribute to Chief Osita Osadebe," "Nnata," and "People's Club of Nigeria." Even posthumously, his music remains influential and continues to be celebrated, as evidenced by the "Vintage" series that highlights the enduring appeal of his work. He was honoured with the title of "High Chief" in recognition of his immense contribution to the Igbo culture and the field of music. Oliver De Coque passed away on June 20, 2008, but his legacy lives on through his timeless music and the inspiration he continues to offer to generations of African musicians.

Genres

Highlife

Latest Release

Tribute to Chief Osita Osadebe

Chief Dr. Oliver De Coque

Ep - 4 Tracks - Released April 29, 2022