Full Name: Bamidele Olatunbosun Sosimi
Stage Name: Dele Sosimi
Date of Birth: February 22, 1963
Place of Birth: Hackney, London, England
Nationality: British-Nigerian
Genres: Afrobeat, Jazz, Funk, Highlife, Latin
Instruments: Vocals, Keyboard
Years Active: 1979–present
Associated Acts: Fela Anikulapo-Kuti, Femi Kuti, Tony Allen, Lokkhi Terra, Sam Duckworth
Early Life and Musical Formation
Dele Sosimi was born in Hackney, London, to Nigerian parents.
His family relocated to Nigeria when he was young, and he was raised in Lagos, where he was immersed in the rich musical and political environment of Fela Kuti’s Kalakuta Republic. This exposure profoundly influenced his musical direction and activism. Sosimi began his musical journey at the age of 15, studying classical piano at the Nigerian College of Arts, Science, and Technology in Zaria. His formal education laid the foundation for his later contributions to Afrobeat.
Career Trajectory and Major Achievements
Joining Fela Kuti’s Egypt 80
In 1979, at the age of 16, Sosimi joined Fela Kuti’s Egypt 80 band, becoming the youngest member. He played rhythm keyboards and was involved in arranging and orchestrating the band’s music. During Fela’s imprisonment in 1984, Sosimi served as the musical director, overseeing rehearsals and performances. His tenure with Egypt 80 lasted until 1986, during which he contributed to several iconic tracks, including “Power Show,” “Original Sufferhead,” and “Authority Stealing.”
Collaboration with Femi Kuti
After leaving Egypt in 80, Sosimi co-founded Positive Force with Femi Kuti in 1986. He continued his role as keyboardist and musical director, contributing to the band’s success until 1994. His work with Positive Force further solidified his reputation as a key figure in the Afrobeat movement.
Solo Career and International Recognition
In 1995, Sosimi relocated to London, where he established himself as a solo artist. He formed the Dele Sosimi Afrobeat Orchestra, blending traditional Afrobeat with elements of jazz, funk, and Latin music. His performances in London’s vibrant music scene garnered attention, leading to collaborations with artists such as Tony Allen and appearances at renowned venues like the Montreux Jazz Festival and Joe Zawinul’s Birdland.
Sosimi’s debut solo album, Turbulent Times (2002), received critical acclaim for its authentic Afrobeat sound. He followed this with Identity (2007) and You No Fit Touch Am (2015), the latter produced by Benedic Lamdin (Nostalgia 77) and released under Wah Wah 45s. In 2018, he collaborated with Lokkhi Terra on Cubafrobeat, merging Afrobeat with Cuban rhythms. His 2023 project, Take to the Streets, was a collaboration with Eparapo, showcasing his versatility and commitment to musical innovation.
Musical Style and Influences
Sosimi’s music is characterized by complex funk grooves, Nigerian traditional music, African percussion, jazz horns, and rhythmical singing. His style reflects the influence of Fela Kuti’s Afrobeat, combined with his own experiences and musical education. He has been instrumental in keeping the Afrobeat tradition alive while incorporating contemporary elements, ensuring its relevance in the global music scene.
Contributions to Music and Education
Beyond his performance career, Sosimi is dedicated to preserving and promoting Afrobeat through education. He founded the Dele Sosimi Afrobeat Foundation and has served as a visiting lecturer in Music and Media at London Metropolitan University. He has also taught at institutions such as Rose Bruford College of Performing Arts, Cardiff University School of Music, and Trinity Laban Conservatoire. His educational initiatives aim to inspire and train the next generation of Afrobeat musicians.
Recent Collaborations and Projects
In 2024, Sosimi collaborated with British musician Sam Duckworth (Get Cape. Wear Cape. Fly) on The Confluence LP, blending Afrobeat with jazz influences. The album received international attention, highlighting Sosimi’s adaptability and continued relevance in the music industry.
Legacy and Cultural Impact
Dele Sosimi’s contributions to Afrobeat have been instrumental in its global dissemination and evolution. His work with Fela and Femi Kuti, along with his solo projects, has enriched the genre, blending traditional African rhythms with global musical influences. Through his performances and educational endeavors, Sosimi continues to inspire and influence musicians worldwide, ensuring that the legacy of Afrobeat endures for future generations.
Discography Highlights
- Turbulent Times (2002)
- Identity (2007)
- You No Fit Touch Am (2015)
- Cubafrobeat (with Lokkhi Terra, 2018)
- Take to the Streets (with Eparapo, 2023)
- The Confluence LP (with Sam Duckworth, 2024)
