Nigerian reggae star Majek Fashek dies

His manager Omenka Uzoma confirmed the musician's death in an Instagram video on 2 June. He had been unwell for some time but the cause of death is still unknown.

"Today, I have had pressure calls; well, it is true that the African number one legendary icon has gone to be with the Lord, his maker," Uzoma said. "Let's celebrate him, his achievements, and his family. We will be notified of any decision his immediate family makes."

The musician, born Majekodunmi Fasheke, hailed from Benin City in Edo State and found fame in 1988 with the release of the Prisoner of Conscience album, which included the single 'Send Down the Rain'. The song was seen as an invocation of a rainstorm that ended one of the worst droughts in Nigeria's history, which earned him the title of rainmaker. Rainmaker was also the title of his 1997 album.

Before 'Send Down the Rain', he was a member of the Jastix Reggae Ital group alongside Ras Kimono. His songs emulated the political commentary of Fela Kuti but in the reggae idiom. He was a huge fan of Bob Marley and Jimi Hendrix, and was known for his experimental fusion style, which married Jamaican rhythms with various African instruments and styles. 'My Guitar', off his 2012 album I & I Experience, was heavily influenced by rock.

As a music activist, he took part in the 2016 We Are Not Afraid project, which involved more than 200 celebrities who came together to raise funds for Human Rights Watch and the International Rescue Committee.

Musicians, industry players and fans have paid tribute to the legendary artist, including Nigerian Afrobeat musician, activist and event organiser Ade Bantu.

"Majek Fashek performed twice at Afropolitan Vibes in 2015 and 2017 as guest with my band BANTU," he told Music In Africa. "I will never forget the chills that went down my spine when I announced his name and the crowd roared in excitement and went into a wild frenzy. Once we struck the first chords to 'Send Down the Rain' there was no holding back, as 3 000 fans sang the words to his song line for line. It was there and then that I understood the magic and power of Majek Fashek and what he meant to so many people.

"The news of his passing will need some time to sink in. These days, the grim reaper seems to be working overtime and I feel like I am becoming numb from mourning musical icons, elders, friends and colleagues. His career was a rock and roll fairy tale of all the imaginable highs and lows, yet he ploughed on with a daredevilish defiance. Fashek was a true original in every sense of the word and I am glad we struck a friendship and got to work a few more times. I will miss the affectionate banter and laughter we shared at rehearsals and offstage."

Fashek's career took him to major venues around the world and he toured with big stars like Jimmy Cliff and Tracy Chapman. The New York Times reviewed his opening performance for Chapman in 1991, praising him for his animated stage presence. "Bright, lively and full of positive messages about racial harmony. His every move and word seemed intent on drawing the audience in," the newspaper said.