I.K. Dairo is the undisputed father of modern Juju, Nigeria’s exuberant folk music. Dairo was Nigeria’s first Juju superstar and an overwhelming influence on two generations of musicians, including King Sunny Ade and Chief Ebenezer Obey.

Forming his first band (the Morningstar Orchestra) over 40 years ago, Dairo forged a modern pop style of sweeping rhythms and hook-filled melodies from Juju’s folksy Yoruba origins, introducing the talking drum and accordion and making the guitar the staple of his new musical hybrid. His band — the Blue Spots — could soon be heard throughout Nigeria, at weddings, socials, and on the radio, driving audiences to their feet dancing to the irresistible rhythms.