By Charles Okogene
He took the bold step to become a recording artist two years ago; that was when he released a multi-track gospel album titled ‘A Wise Man;’.
Before this achievement, he was for many years, functioning as the bassist for Femi Anikulapo-Kuti’s Positive Force Band.
But the dreaded COVID-19 set in and torpedoed all the promotional plans he had for the album.
This unexpected challenge, didn’t in anyway, slow him down. Rather, it became a stepping platform for him, as he stepped into the studio once again and came out with a five tracks album titled ‘Born2praise’ with the same Chris Okoro as the producer. It was the same Okoro that arranged all the songs, played the drums/percussions for all the songs, while another time-tested guitarist, Jide Oladosun, who plays the strings for veteran star, Bongos Ikwue, handled the chords for him.
The good thing about this Roy’s sophomore album is that, this time, he went deep into the traditional rhythm of his Ebonyi people in Alpha and Omega track, combining it beautifully with the rhythm of the white handkerchief waving people of Delta State, to bring out irresistible rhythm that will lure his fans to the dance floor in praise of God.
And those in love with the type of Buchi’s gospel reggae vibe, can find their choice in ‘Appreciation’.
The full track of the new job as played to this writer in his home during an exclusive listening session are, ‘Alpha and Omega, Oba To bi, Born2Praise, Appreciation and Greatest Love.’
Roy, who was known as Obinna Ajuzigwe while with Positive Force and who played the bass guitar on tracks like, “Wonder Wonder,” Sorry Sorry, Bang Bang Bang, No Place For My Dream, and some other songs said this of Femi “I learnt a lot from Femi Kuti, he is the most dedicated, disciplined and hard working musician that I know.
The band gave me a foothold and gave me experience.” Gospel music loving Nigerians will love it because he did a good job.