Prince Bamidele Bajowa 

Born into the Royal House of Rebuja Ruling Dynasty in Igbotako, Osooro, Ondo State, Nigeria. Inspired by my cultural upbringing, I started drumming and dancing at an early age. My mission is to use music to bring awareness to the spiritualism embedded in Yoruba way of life, and the need for the preservation of Yoruba heritage in Africa and in the Diaspora.  My music embraces traditional folk and contemporary rhythms of the Yoruba people.

My traditional rhythms are set to sacred songs and chants in praises of the Orishas (Orunmila, Ogun, Oya, Egungun, Yemoja and other Yoruba deities) Playing Bata, Sakara, Gangan (Yoruba talking drums), Kpalongo, Djembe drums. I also perform with ODUA DE – Ensemble, playing Highlife, Juju and Afro Beat music set to melodic songs about life. The group also performs contemporary gospel music in English and Yoruba.”

My efforts to preserve Yoruba heritage both in Africa and in the New World, have been blessed with many opportunities of travels amongst the Yoruba people. I am now sharing my experiences with Canadians through music and dance as a traditionalist. As Ifa (Orunmila) initiate, I divine with sixteen cowries and palm nuts. Am also the custodian of my family’s ancestral masked dancer Egungun Ayeloja.

For over ten years, I had been supporting local organizations both in Canada and Africa with my music. Through collaborative efforts with Canadian musician, we raised funds for schools, built water wells, supported cooperative of women farmers with food programs and sports program for youths in Africa.

For more information and bookings contact bami@princebamidelebajowa.ca • www.osooroproject.wordpress.com • www.myspace.com/princebamidelemusic