As I punch my keyboard to write this tribute, I am, amidst the sorrow of the loss of someone special to me, filled with nostalgia and admiration for a woman who has was a constant presence in my heart, even from a distance. Onyeka Onwenu, the Elegant Stallion, was my only star crush since I was a child, and her music, talent, beauty and charisma made an indelible mark on my heart. As a matter of fact, her insignia look, the afro and unplaited hair, remained, for a long time, a standard of female beauty to me until I became a grown teenager to find attraction in other female figures.
Growing up in Nigeria, I was surrounded by the sounds of highlife, juju, and afrobeats. But Onyeka Onwenu’s unique voice, style, and energy captivated me like no other, not forgetting her evergreen charm that bedazzled me and so very many others as well. Her songs were the soundtrack to my childhood, and I would spend hours listening to the sets of her songs available to my audience, mesmerized by her soulful melodies, poignant lyrics and her beautiful and charming personage.
Onyeka’s impact on Nigerian music cannot be overstated. With a career spanning over four decades, she was one of the ‘pinch-ful’ female trailblazers of African music, paving the way for future generations of female artists. In her likes, were a few names like South African, Mariam Makeba, Yvone Chakaka, Brenda Fasie and our own Christi Essien Igbokwe. Her innovative blend of traditional Igbo music, jazz, and afro-funk influenced countless musicians, and her iconic songs, such as, “One Love”, “Iyogogo”, “Dancing In The Sun” and “Ekwe,” remain staples of Nigerian pop culture. Her song, “One Love”, was my favorite and from the era of polyphonic and android phones, I have used the song as my phone ringtone. Even till this day, after listening to its evergreen sounds, I often switch back to it every once in a while. I so much loved her call to unity and love in that evergreen love anthem. “One Love” was a call that Africa and Nigeria are still yet to heed as it echoes the essence of unity and how this unity would lead to freedom, progress, peace and development of Nigeria and Africa in general. “…One love can set us free if we let it be…. One love is all we need to chase the past away…” How ever so true are these words of hers. Sadly, as ‘The Elegant Stallion’ has transcended to the great beyond, it remains heartbreaking that Nigeria and Africa in general is still yet to heed the counsel and appeal that emerged from the sweet and angelic sounds of this African Amazon and the consequences we disturbingly still behold only to our karma, and I know it broke her heart even till her exit.
But Onyeka’s appeal extended far beyond her music. Her elegance, poise, and intelligence made her a beloved figure, transcending generations and genres. She embodied the essence of African beauty and womanhood – strong,, beautiful, resilient, and proud. Her dedication to her craft, her culture, and her community was inspiring, and her legacy continues to motivate and empower young people, especially females across the country and continent.
An outstanding artist she always was. She spent years in broadcasting, doing an excellent job and exuding every charming element she transfused whenever she sang, even that sweet charm of a smile she always wore on her beautiful face. Her intermittent drift into acting revealed that she was a thoroughbred artist and an embodiment of the entirety of art and entertainment. She rendered every role with excellence and sublime sophistication and her persona shone it. Small wonder, the directors and producers always gave her a role that accentuated her personality
As I grew older, my admiration for Onyeka only deepened. I began to appreciate not only her artistry but also her activism, her commitment to social justice, and her unwavering support for women’s rights and education. Due to her activism and advocacy for women empowerment, she was appointed Director General of The National Centre for Women Development in Abuja, Nigeria in 2013. She also served as Chair of Imo State Council for Arts and Culture. Her leadership and vision have forged a tangible difference in the lives of countless Nigerian women and her influence extended far beyond the entertainment industry.
Onyeka Onwenu’s impact on me personally cannot be overstated. She has been a constant source of inspiration, a reminder that with hard work, determination, and passion, anything is possible. Her music has comforted me in times of sorrow, excited me to find joy amidst travails, and motivated me to keep pursuing my dreams amidst every odd, as she triumphed against all odds.
As I look back to my childhood, I realize that Onyeka was more than just a star crush – she was a role model, a beacon of hope, and a symbol of beauty and excellence. Her legacy continues to inspire even after her sad exit to the great beyond, and I confess my gratitude for the gift of her music, her wisdom, and her unwavering dedication to her craft.
Born of Arondiuzogu descent, and often natively called ‘Ada Maazi’, she was the pride of the people of ‘Aro’ and Imo state as a whole, and a pride of Africa. Dubbed ‘The Elegant Stallion’ due to her charming confidence, distinct vocalization and powerful dancing movement which she every time exuded in her performance as she sang. Although human, she attained that success and larger-than-life status that everyone always dreams off
To Onyeka Onwenu, I blow my kisses of sweet goodbye to the heavens for a fullfilled and well-spent life. Although you have fallen into one of the 2024 Obituaries, you remain ever alive in the hearts of many of which I belong and I want to say thank you, hoping by God’s Grace you hear me from Heaven. Thank you for sharing your talent, your passion, and your vision with the world and thank you for being one of the beacons of African goodness, excellence and beauty Thank you also for being a shining example of Nigerian excellence, a true icon and a timeless star. I am honored to have grown up with your music, and I know there can never be your replacement.
I want to conclude by saying that Onyeka Onwenu was more than just a celebrity – she was a national treasure, a cultural icon, and a beloved figure who touched the hearts of millions. Her legacy will continue to inspire, motivate, and uplift future generations, and her music will remain an integral part of Nigerian heritage. Even in old age, she remained a paragon of beauty, wisdom, inspiration and charisma.
Dear ma, I celebrate you, sadly posthumously , as one of my heroes. I should have done this while you still breathed here on earth. I, from time till ‘times’, remain not just as a fan but someone whose life was enriched by your presence. You are a true legend, and your star will continue to shine bright for generations to come and you’ll always remain a standard of Black Beauty to me and my crush will you remain till my end of time.
SALUD
Meze Goodspeed