By Bimbo Esho
https://www.digital.zenithbank.com/ZEQ/ZEQ-jan-2026/index.html#p=1When Prince Adekunle disbanded his band members which included Segun Adewale and Sir Shina Peters after the band’s return from their London tour in 1976, the media took the news with great shock.
Segun Adewale said he didn’t understand what led to the drastic decision taken by their boss. In his words he said and I quote ‘ I had to go and see Alhaji Babatunde Ajose the then Managing Director of Daily Times at Kakawa so that he could help us talk to our boss.
He said Alhaji Ajose’s several attempt to make Prince Adekunle listen to the voice of reasoning didn’t come out positive as their boss was adamant that he didn’t need their services again.
In 1977 Segun Adewale and Shina Peters forged ahead to form Sir Shina Adewale and Superstars International under M.Ola Kazzims record label. After the release of their first mega hit they sent 25 copies of the album to Alhaji Ajose for his accessment ,critic and review. A full center spread was immediately dedicated for these duo in daily times to break the news of the two Juju SuperStars in town. The two were a delight to watch and like a colossus they dominated the whole entertainment space. While Shina Peters played the guitar Segun Adewale was in control of the vocals and compositions. Though the duo of Segun Adewale and Sir Shina Peters were together for 2 years between 1977-1979 and released 9 Lps before both eventually decided to go their seperate ways to set up their own private bands.
In 1980 Segun Adewale formed his own band known as Segun Adewale and the Super Star International. He was a master in the craft of musical composition. He called his style of juju music Yopop and churned out several Evergreen songs like Adewale Play for Me, Oshogbo Oroki, Odaran Kan to Sa, YoPop Music, Ojo Je, Atewo Lara, Kole Sori Apata, etc
Segun Adewale a native of Oshogbo was born on October 27th, 1949.
He had his first musical apprenticeship with Juju Icon, I.K Dairo in 1963. Then later had a stint with M.A Jayesimi, another Juju musician.
Segun Adewale is waxing strong today and still composing songs…
