Daddy Showkey – Vanguard Award Will Be the Biggest of My Lifetime
Veteran Nigerian musician John Odafe Asiemo, popularly known as Daddy Showkey, has described the Vanguard award he is set to receive as the biggest recognition of his lifetime.
The Galala music pioneer made the statement while reflecting on his relationship with Vanguard Media Limited and the newspaper’s role in his rise to prominence.
According to the singer, Vanguard was the first Nigerian newspaper to publish a story about him when he was still trying to establish himself in the entertainment industry.
For Daddy Showkey, the recognition carries special meaning because it comes from a media organisation that played a part in telling his story to Nigerians.
Recalling his early days, Daddy Showkey spoke about how he and other members of his music group, De Pretty Busy Boys, used to pass by Vanguard while trekking across Kirikiri Bridge after school.
He recalled hoping that the newspaper would one day publish a story about him.
That dream eventually became reality, and he has continued to appreciate the publication for giving him early media exposure.
During his 50 years-on-stage anniversary concert in August 2026, the singer invited Vanguard Saturday Editor, Onochie Anibeze, onto the stage to publicly acknowledge the newspaper’s contribution to his journey.
He also paid tribute to the late Ogbonna Amadi, a former Vanguard Entertainment Editor whom he credited with helping shape his career.
The latest recognition comes months after Daddy Showkey celebrated 50 years in entertainment with a concert tagged The Journey! My 50 Years on Stage as an Entertainer.
The event was held at Eko Hotels and Suites, Lagos, on August 9, 2026, and featured performances from several established Nigerian artistes, including 2Baba, 9ice, Teni, African China, Tony Tetuila, Danfo Drivers, Korede Bello and Cobhams Asuquo.
The celebration also provided an opportunity for the singer to honour people and institutions that supported him throughout his career.
Daddy Showkey rose to prominence in the 1990s and became one of the leading figures associated with Galala music, a street-inspired Nigerian sound that emerged from Ajegunle, Lagos.
Known for his energetic performances, distinctive voice, and socially conscious lyrics, he helped bring wider attention to the musical creativity of Ajegunle.
Some of his popular songs include Diana, The Name, Fire Fire, Ghetto Soldier, and In the Ghetto.
For the singer, the Vanguard recognition represents more than another award. It is a reminder of the early support that helped introduce his talent to a wider audience and the journey that has kept him relevant across generations.
