Do You Remember Iya Aladuke?

Not many young music audiences are familiar with Hawawu Alake-Aduke also known as Iya Aladuke, but those who know her know who she is. Iya Aladuke the living legend who originated the famous Sewele genre of music. With over 70years on stage, Iya Aladuke has had her fair share of experience in the music industry of which some will be shared here.

Iya Aladuke originated the Senwele genre some 75years ago. According to her, no one taught her, but she was only Inspired by God. 

Even after the origination of Senwele, It's Aladuke did not start singing professionally immediately, although she would sing at small occasions and house parties, she didn't get signed Immediately as she had to wait for her children to be settled.

The musical legend started singing professionally between her late 30s and early 40s. She had the good fortune in the music industry as her first album shot her into the limelight. 

Coming out professionally, she released her first album titled "Won Lasewo La Wa"(They said we are sex workers). The album became societally controversial as it tackled men who accused women who dressed well of being sex workers. Even though she faced a lot of challenges because of the album, it also brought her fame.

Asides from the first album, Iya Aladuke released several albums which, were also accepted by the public. She was invited to sing at several events, hosted by high and prestigious people in society. This was one of the epic moments in her career. 

According to most of her interviews, she has been supported by most of her family to start singing professionally, this helped take many moves, and go for many musical tours, in and out of Nigeria.

The Senwele originator has also said she is never going to retire, according to her until she isn't invited to events anymore, she'll continue to sing. 

Writer: Idowu Elizabeth
Editor (s): Idowu Elizabeth & Awe Olufunso
Publisher: Awe Olufunso