Oghena Solamame by Chief Vincent Ugabi and his Honorable Vincent Ugabi Dance Band of Agenebode is a timeless Etsako classic that beautifully captures the spiritual and cultural essence of Afenmai land. Sung in the Etsako language, this song originates from the historic town of Agenebode in Edo State, where Ugabi is based. It reflects his deep-rooted spirituality and his transformative journey into Christianity during the period of its release.

Chief Ugabi’s hypnotic vocals, accompanied by a rousing chorus and the distinctive psych-guitar riffs that define the Etaskor/Weppa Wanno sound, make Oghena Solamame an ageless treasure. The track showcases the meditative and introspective nature of Ugabi’s music, inviting listeners to reflect, sway, and immerse themselves in the rhythmic call-and-response tradition that is synonymous with Etsako highlife.

Vincent Ugabi’s career trajectory is as inspiring as his music. Born in 1940, he embarked on a musical journey after careers in photography, tailoring, and hairstyling. Following his father’s death in 1971, he embraced music fully, producing LPs that laid the foundation for the Etaskor sound—a unique highlife subgenre blending spirituality, storytelling, and rich cultural themes.

By the late 1970s, he had relocated to his homeland at the invitation of his community, where he cemented his reputation as one of the foremost Etsako musicians. Despite setbacks, including the tragic loss of his recordings in a fire during the 1990s, Ugabi’s resilience and his fans’ unwavering support have sustained him through decades of artistic expression.

With over 30 LPs to his name, Ugabi’s music remains an eternal beacon of hope to the depth and vibrancy of Nigerian highlife. Oghena Solamame like every of his works, is an emblem of the enduring spirit of Etsako music and its power to uplift, inspire, and connect listeners across generations.