Mike Ejeagha and Brainjotter Viral Dance Challenge
The Nigerian music scene is experiencing a delightful revival, thanks to the viral dance challenge initiated by popular comedian Brain Jotter. This challenge has brought back to the limelight a song from the legendary highlife musician Mike Ejeagha. Let’s explore how this unexpected resurgence has impacted Mike Ejeagha’s life and legacy.
Who is Mike Ejeagha?
Mike Ejeagha, fondly known as “Gentleman,” is a veteran highlife singer who is celebrated for his Igbo folk songs. Born in 1932 in Enugu State, Nigeria, Ejeagha started his musical journey in elementary school and formed his band in 1950. His unique storytelling style, blending folktales with music, earned him widespread acclaim and the title “grandfather of modern Igbo folk music.”
The Song and the Dance Challenge
The song at the heart of this revival is “Ka Esi Le Onye Isi Oche,” featuring the catchy refrain “Gwo Gwo Gwo Ngwo.” Released in 1983 as part of Ejeagha’s album ‘Akuko Na Egwu,’ the song narrates a whimsical story of a tortoise tricking an elephant. Although it has been over 40 years since its release, the song found a new audience through Brain Jotter’s viral dance challenge.
Brain Jotter’s Influence
Brain Jotter, a popular Nigerian comedian, posted a video of himself dancing to the song on Instagram in early July 2024. The dance involves participants walking towards each other, performing a leg dance, and then playfully chasing one another. The video quickly gained millions of views, and the challenge spread like wildfire across social media platforms, including TikTok.
Impact on Mike Ejeagha
The resurgence of “Gwo Gwo Gwo Ngwo” has had a profound impact on Mike Ejeagha. At 92 years old, Ejeagha was not only thrilled by the renewed interest in his music but also deeply moved by the support he received. Brain Jotter and his team visited Ejeagha, gifting him N2 million and a car as a token of appreciation for his timeless contributions to Nigerian music.
Chart Success and Media Attention
The viral challenge propelled “Gwo Gwo Gwo Ngwo” to enter the Spotify weekly chart at number 150, marking it as the highest new entry of the week. This achievement highlights the power of social media in reviving classic songs and introducing them to new generations.
Conclusion
The revival of Mike Ejeagha’s “Gwo Gwo Gwo Ngwo” through Brain Jotter’s dance challenge is a testament to the timeless nature of good music. It shows how modern platforms can breathe new life into classic hits, allowing legendary artists to enjoy renewed fame and appreciation. Mike Ejeagha’s story is a beautiful reminder that great art, no matter how old, will always find its audience.
FAQs
Who is Mike Ejeagha?
Mike Ejeagha is a veteran Nigerian highlife musician known for his Igbo folk songs and storytelling style.
What is the “Gwo Gwo Gwo Ngwo” challenge?
It is a viral dance challenge created by Brain Jotter, where participants perform a leg dance and playful chase to the song “Ka Esi Le Onye Isi Oche.”
How did the challenge impact Mike Ejeagha?
The challenge brought renewed attention to Ejeagha’s music, leading to emotional support and financial gifts from fans and Brain Jotter’s team.
What is the significance of the song “Ka Esi Le Onye Isi Oche”?
Released in 1983, the song tells a whimsical folktale. It features the catchy refrain “Gwo Gwo Gwo Ngwo,” which has captivated a new generation through the viral dance challenge.
