By: Songu Michael
The Evergreen Musical Company has commenced the development of a multi-million naira musical museum in Ikeja, Lagos. The project is expected to be finalized by the conclusion of the current year. Bimbo Esho, the Managing Director of Evergreen Musical Company, announced over the weekend that the museum, once completed, will be christened as the Evergreen Music Heritage Foundation. This establishment aims to enhance the promotion of music from past eras that embody strong moral principles.
Esho revealed that the primary objective is to pass down to future generations a profound musical philosophy while acknowledging the exceptional artistic talents of Nigeria’s acclaimed musicians, many of whom have been forgotten. The initiative was conceived through the collaboration between Chief Femi Esho, the Founder of Evergreen Musical Company, and the Founder of Mountain of Fire and Miracles Ministry, Dr. Daniel Olukoya. The facility will house a music museum, music library, gallery displaying portraits of artists, and an exhibition of over 1,000 photographs of Nigerian musicians from 1914 to the present.
Additionally, the museum will exhibit relics of musicians’ attire, vintage musical instruments, an event venue for music performances, a cinema theater, a recording studio, and various other amenities. Esho praised Olukoya as a fervent admirer of quality music who has provided significant financial backing for the project. She noted that the founder of Evergreen Musical Company will continue to serve as the chairman of the foundation, with Olukoya as its patron.
“This endeavor is monumental, a project of historical significance that will endure the test of time and surpass our lifetimes. Dr. Olukoya has been immensely supportive of our vision.
His generosity has been unparalleled, and we are deeply appreciative of his affection and assistance towards this aspiration. However, there is still much work to be accomplished.
“This grand structure is located at Oyedele Ogunniyi Street, Anthony Village, Ikeja, Lagos. We urge all music enthusiasts and lovers of Nigerian music worldwide to rally behind this initiative. It will contribute to a legacy that will be sustained for generations to come, embodying the enduring morals and intrinsic values that were imparted by the music of bygone days, qualities that are scarce in today’s world.
“The establishment will serve as a haven where young individuals can relish in quality music and delve into the historical musical heritage of some of Nigeria’s most distinguished musicians from the 1950s to the 1990s,” she concluded.
