Oshey! The Koko Master, D’banj, Still Thrills on Stage 20 Years After

Vanessa Obioha 

In 2004, when most Gen Zs were still children, Oladapo Daniel Oyebanjo emerged on the music scene as a young chap eager to conquer the music industry with his infectious persona. It was the era of Nigerian pop music and young artists, determined to carve a niche for themselves through their authentic Nigerian sounds were popping up. 

Oyebanjo, better known as D’banj, armed with an irresistible charm and a pocketful of  captivating lingos stood out among the pack with his music, teasing with singles such as ‘Mobolowowon,’ ‘Tongolo’ and ‘Socor.’ With the release of his debut album ‘No Long Thing’ in 2005, D’banj swiftly ascended to stardom, earning him the moniker ‘The Entertainer’ for his charismatic stage presence and electrifying performances, whether shirtless or not.

Fast forward twenty years and D’banj’s magnetic stage presence remains undiminished, as evidenced by his recent electrifying performance at the Trace Naija Live concert. Held as part of his 20th-anniversary celebrations in the music industry, the event drew a motley crowd of music enthusiasts to the Terra Kulture Arena in Victoria Island, Lagos.

Hosted by Lasisi Elenu, the evening kicked off with light-hearted banter, accompanied by stand-up comedy from Pencil and pulsating beats from DJ Consequence and an opening act from multi-talented Nas Boi who got the audience moving with his anthem, ‘Umbrella.’

The stage was then set for D’banj’s grand entrance, with his official MC Jimmie Akinsola hyping him. 

D’banj emerged on stage in a glittering outfit that matched the chains on his neck. Accompanied by his impressive 14-piece band, including two-time Grammy Award-winner Lekan Babalola and acclaimed guitarist Fiokee, he took the crowd on a nostalgic musical journey, opening with ‘Mobolowowon’ on his harmonica.

Moved by the performance, the Koko Master couldn’t help but acknowledge the presence of Gen Zs in the crowd, observing their enthusiastic sing-along to ‘Mobolowowon.’ However, the song held a deeper significance for him.

 Over the past few years, D’banj faced numerous challenges, including a financial fraud allegation. Standing on stage, surrounded by loyal fans who stood by him during those difficult times, D’banj felt a sense of gratitude towards the Supreme One. He expressed his thankfulness for being able to continue entertaining his fans and for being cleared of the charges against him. As he addressed the crowd, he reflected on how ‘Mobolowowon’ symbolized his escape from those trying times.

His next song ‘Olorun Ma Je’ followed a similar trajectory, showing how he had overcome the challenges of life despite evil wishes on him. D’banj segued to ‘Fall in Love’ where he encouraged the crowd to express their love to their loved ones. Other songs he performed include ‘Suddenly,’ ‘Igwe,’ and ‘Tongolo’ among others.

Throughout his over one-hour-long set, D’banj engaged the audience with his trademark dance moves and interactive stage presence, ensuring that every attendee felt valued and appreciated. For instance, he rained heartfelt prayers on them and even lauded every independent successful individual in the gathering. Of course, there were moments when he went shirtless, just to show the ladies (and men too) how ‘Endowed’ he was. Only once did he change his outfit to black sequined pants and a cropped unbuttoned white jacket. 

In addition to thrilling the crowd with his classic hits, D’banj also teased his upcoming album, ‘The Entertainer (The Sequel),’ treating fans to a sneak peek of what’s to come, including ‘Taya’ (featuring Zlatan, Timaya, Kayswitch, Bhadboi DML), ‘Since 04,’ and ‘Serious.’ Special guest Reekado Banks further delighted fans with songs such as ‘Ozumba Mbadiwe.’

While appreciating Trace for putting together the concert, D’banj explained that the event was just a teaser of what was to come during his 20-year musical odyssey. Earlier, D’Banj had unveiled a partnership between his D’Kings Men Media Limited and The Temple Company, a foremost entertainment and production powerhouse, to drive activities marking his anniversary celebration. The partnership will see him go on a global city tour alongside various initiatives highlighting African talent and their rights.