Accelerando: BJMD (Feb 2022)
MUSICAL TRACK ANALYSYS OF CHRISTIE ESSIEN IGBOKWE “IFE”
Abstract
Christie Essien Igbokwe (1960-2011) was popularly known as “Nigeria's Lady of Song”. In her music Essien addressed many issues, such as love among people, community, association, woman-man relationship, childhood. Moreover, her passion for peace, equity and fairness put her among those that championed the creation of some States, specifically Akwa Ibom and the new Anambra. In addition, this resulted in the abrogation of obnoxious laws, such as onshore/offshore oil dichotomy which benefited the littoral states more but gave peace to the country as a whole. Accordingly, in this musical track review of her reggae song “Ife”, from the album of 1980 titled “Give Me a Chance” (labels “Apex Entertainment”), the author will show that her impact across the country was such that whatever language she used to communicate her message evoked emotion and reflection. Her song titled Ife meaning love in the English language. The song laid so much emphasis on the need for togetherness in love as a nation and continent. She advised on the need to put aside all forms of grievances and uphold unity. She pointed out the attributes expected of the people in order to make Nigeria great.
