Majek Fashek

In 1987 Majek Fashek, born Majekodunmi Fasheke, drew global notice when his self-written song “Send Down The Rain” appeared to summon a downpour that ended one of Nigeria’s most punishing droughts. Thereafter labeled a “prophet,” he established himself among Africa’s foremost reggae-influenced artists. His first solo album, Prisoner Of Conscience, issued in 1988, moved more than 200,000 copies inside Nigeria.

Fashek was born in Benin City, once the hub of the ancient Sini kingdom. His Edo mother, who raised him after his father died when he was eleven, passed on her passion for music; she earned a living supplying concrete to road contractors and took part in traditional ceremonies that employed Olokun rhythms to venerate the river goddess. As a boy, Fashek shook maracas during those rites.

Although Jamaican music claimed his early attention, Fashek was equally drawn to the songs of Indian cinema. While still in secondary school he learned guitar, joined the band Jah Stix, and began performing in clubs throughout Lagos, the capital.

Fashek, whose name means “power of miracles, the high priest does not live,” maintained a close association with the late Nigerian drummer and bandleader Fela Anikulapo Kuti.