By Ayo Onikoyi
In a musical landscape where Afrobeats dominates the airwaves, drowning out many traditional sounds, one man has remained unwavering in his commitment to preserving the soul of Highlife. His name is Femi Odewole, but to those who have witnessed his artistry on stage, he is simply Femi Guitar, a virtuous guitarist whose fingers dance across strings, breathing new life into a genre many believed had lost its place in contemporary Nigerian music.
For nearly two decades, Odewole has stayed true to his craft, not by luck or fleeting trends but through a steadfast belief in the power of originality. His journey, however, is anything but conventional.
Born with a deep-seated passion for music, his path initially led him elsewhere, toward a degree in Chemical Engineering from LAUTECH. A world of formulas and equations stood in stark contrast to the melodies that had echoed in his heart since childhood.
While others pursued formal music training, Odewole took a different route, self-taught and deeply immersed in the discipline of sound. Through relentless practice, he evolved into a multi-instrumentalist, though the guitar remained his truest companion. “I play virtually all musical instruments, but the guitar is my major, that’s why they call me Femi Guitar,” he explains.
Odewole’s official foray into professional music came in 2005, but not without its challenges. He vividly recalls the nerves that gripped him before his first major performance at a house party. “Being a very shy person, I was afraid for days before the event. But the moment I grabbed the mic, everything changed,” he reminisces. That performance became a turning point, transforming fear into confidence and setting the stage for a career that continues to flourish.
In Nigeria’s music industry, raw talent is only part of the equation. The real battle is fought on the fields of branding, strategy, and market positioning. Femi Guitar understands this reality all too well. While many artists chase viral hits, he has cultivated a different kind of relevance, one rooted in the timeless appeal of live performances. His ability to blend genres while staying true to Highlife has made him a standout figure in the industry.
At the core of his musical inspiration is the legendary Professor Ebenezer Obey Fabiyi, a man whose longevity in the industry serves as a blueprint. Yet, Odewole is far from stuck in the past. His admiration for contemporary stars like Simi and Teni signals his readiness to fuse the old with the new, a dream collaboration that could redefine the sound of Highlife for future generations.
Beyond being a performer, Femi Guitar is also a strategic investor in his craft. In an era where many artists focus on fleeting singles, he recognizes the value of structured projects. His 2024 EP, “Rep Your School Compilation,” was a musical release, and also a calculated move to expand his reach and solidify his brand. Now, with a new album in the works, he is doubling down on his commitment to consistency and growth.
Beyond the melodies and stage lights, Odewole lives by a simple yet profound philosophy “Live and let others live, take life simple.” His advice to young musicians navigating the often chaotic entertainment industry is equally straightforward “Be consistent and be prayerful.”
In an industry that shifts with every passing trend, Femi Guitar has proven that true success lies not in chasing the loudest sound but in creating one that resonates across generations. With his hands on the strings, his mind on the music, and his heart set on legacy, one thing is certain, Femi Odewole is making music and he is as well making history
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