Salawa Abeni Says Jealousy and ‘Diabolical Acts’ Nearly Ended Her Music Career

Waka music icon Salawa Abeni says jealousy and alleged diabolical acts from some senior colleagues nearly pushed her out of the music industry in her early years. Speaking on a television programme, the 65-year-old recalled losing her voice and, at times, vomiting blood when it was her turn to perform. She said she began singing from childhood and often performed alongside older musicians. Abeni alleged that rivals disrupted her performances by interfering with sound equipment and that rainfall once affected only the area where she was performing, scattering her audience. Despite the setbacks, she went on to become one of Nigeria’s most prominent waka musicians, with songs including "Iba Omode Iba Agba" and "Cheer Up."

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