The Journey to Bob Marley's Tribute Concert - Ital Sounds Diary

Reggae enthusiast, individually and collectively organises musical tribute concert to the loving memory of Robert Nesta ‘Bob’ Marley after his death on 11May 1981.

In Bob’s native country – Jamaica, the tribute concert usually kicks off in February, Bob’s birthday month.

Ital Sounds artistes rehearsing on stage
while Covenant Child observes closely

In Nigeria, Ace Reggae On–Air Personality – Covenant Child through its CS Entertainment Company brand – Ital Sounds (Radio & TV) and Ital Sounds System, on the eve of Bob’s death at New Afrika Shrine held an intense rehearsal session with (Born Star, Big Man and Maggi) artistes on the roll call for Friday 13 May 2016 Bob Marley tribute concert.

Although, Bob Marley’s early years (1962 – 1972) performances is not on record, Bob performed over 300 concerts throughout his life beginning at Coleman club, Nottingham, England on August 27 1973 until September 23 1980 at Stanley Theatre, Pittsburgh. After his death in 1981, Reggae Sunsplash from August 4 – 8, 1981 at Jarret Park, Montego Bay held the very first tribute concert in honour of the reggae legend and icon – Robert Nesta ‘Bob’ Marley.

Despite Nigeria’s economy and political instability, fun seekers especially reggae lovers usually gather to unwind, awaken and alert their consciousness to authentic but strict reggae dancehall tunes from both past and present times.

Present during the rehearsal session were Afrofusion Entertainment CEO – Kunle Kuti who also is one of the pioneering brains behind the Afrofusion Reggae Dancehall Nite with Covenant Child (Ital Sounds System) which takes place every Tuesday at New Afrika Shrine. Ital Sounds loyalist – Daureen, reggae rookies and Ital Sounds Family, which comprises of the ‘Olori Oko’ himself – Covenant Child, God First (GF) who co-anchors Ital Sounds on Metro Fm and Rhythm Fm network every Saturdays from 5pm – 6pm and 9pm – 12midnight respectively.

Covenant Child and God First on Stage

Other Ital Sounds Family includes Empress Lucia Ikediashi who doubles as the CEO and CCO of Shimmers Production Services. As Ital Sounds first lady, she works pleasantly with Godwin Iheanacho on Ital Sounds social media affairs and Selector Frizzle, the newest addition into the Ital Sounds Family.