Discography of Chief Stephen Osita Osadebe (passed away on May 11, 2007)
Chief Stephen Osita Osadebe is one of the few bandleaders from the 1960s' "Golden Age" of Nigerian danceband highlife still active on the music scene. He was born in March 1936 in Atani, near the Igbo trading city of Onitsha. According to the liner notes by Chuzzy Udenwa of the compilation CD, "Sound Time," Osadebe's musical apprenticeship began with E.C. Arinze's Empire Rhythm Orchestra in the 1950's, and he soon made a mark with his first record, "Adamma," in 1958. Another source (Yahoo! Music Australia & NZ) claims that Osadebe got his start with Stephen Ameche's band in 1958 and that his first recording was "Lagos Life Na So So Enjoyment" with trumpeter Zeal Onyiya's band in 1959.
Regardless of the exact date of his musical debut, Osadebe's career dates to the 1950's there are many 45s, EP's, etc. releeased prior to 1972 which are not listed here. One or two LPs issued after 1972 may also not be listed. Nonetheless, this is the most complete discography of Chief Stephen Osita Osadebe currently available. Occasionally LPs do not have a formal "title". In such cases they are identified by the lead track on side 1. "Philips" & "Polydor" refer to the Nigerian affiliates of those labels. -- John Beadle.
Addition: Stephen Osita Osadebe passed away in US at the age of 73 on the 11th of May, 2007. According to Benson Idonije's obituary article in the Guardian Newspaper,
"Osadebe succeeded in breaking away from the conventional big band format established by the pioneers of the music, a format that favoured melodic progressions that were in the common meter, church hymnal tradition. He succeeded in completely transforming highlife into the call-and-response pattern of African music.
Osadebe was only a singer who also played claves, but his role manifested itself in all the areas of highlife, composing, arranging and providing band leadership. He began his career from Empire Hotel, Idioro, Lagos, a club owned by Chief Kanu; which provided employment and residency for almost all the early highlife musicians. Osadebe was a sideman with Stephen Amechi and his Rhythm Skies."
He describes the points of his music as
"Two personalities were greatly respected and sought-after during those highlife days - the vocalist and the guitar player. The guitarist provided palm wine chords which held the orchestra together and also indulged in interminably long guitar solos that kept dancers on the floor for long periods of time. The vocalist projected the entire band and remained the main focus. Osadebe was one of the leading singers on the scene - along with Joe Mensah, Tunde Osofisan, Godwin Omabuwa. But the edge Osadebe had over all of them was that he was a prolific composer; and for this reason, he was in great demand."
His carrier shifted from the Empre Hotel to Central Hotel. "He moved from Empire Hotel under the leadership of Stephen Amechi to Central Hotel, Yaba. Even though he was not the leader of the band there was a special arrangement between him and Chief Osuala, the proprietor of the club to concede this position to trumpet player. Eric Onugha, a much older musician who could read music. Osadebe did all the singing and composing."
Idonije continues: "The situation which however elevated Osadebe musically in terms of giving him the confidence that he needed as a musician was his collaboration with trumpet player Zeal Onyiia of Vic Yem Ofum fame.
Zeal was one of the pioneers of highlife who had fruitful stints with Bobby Benson and even E.T. Mensal and his Tempos Band. He also co-led the Rhythm Aces with Spike Ayanko upon leaving the Tempos Band. Besides, Zeal was the strongest trumpeter in West Africa. Playing with zeal was an eye opener and a landmark in Osadebe's musical career. He learnt all about the essence of melodic progressions, poise, dynamics and big band arrangement technique - qualities, which manifested themselves in the band's hit single oyin lotan, which was composed and vocally projected by Osadebe himself."
He broke away from being a sideman and went his separate way around 1964 with the release of One pound, no balance, which was a big hit. Quite significant in his career, this song dictated for him the way in which his music should go."
1958
?
Adamma b/w ? (format and recording information unavailable)
1959
?
Lagos Life Na So So Enjoyment b/w ? (format and recording information unavailable)
Late 1962 / Early 1963
Stephen Osadebay and Nigerian Soundmakers
United Nigeria / Okpaku Elieli (10" 78; HMV NH37) (7" 45; HMV NH37)
Late 1962 / Early 1963
Stephen Osadebay and Nigerian Soundmakers
Sylvanu Olympio / Ifeayi Chukwu (10" 78; HMV NH41)
1960?
Commander in Chief Stephen Osita Osadebe and His Nigerian Sound Makers
Dancing Time No. 5 (Phillips West African Records 420027)
[A]
[B]
Late 1960s?
Commander in Chief Stephen Osita Osadebe & His Nigerian Sound
Ogu Ejiefor�(10" LP; Philips [Lagos] 686 009)
[A] Ogu Ejiefor / Onyebu Chi / Nidi Bu Ogu Enu / Nulu Onu Anyi / Igochiko Meringue
[B] Uwu Bu Nkonye / Do Good / Mr. Dictative / Alili / Nekwaya
Late 1960s?
Various Artists
Nigeria's Request Programme (Philips PR 13407)
[A] ?
[B] ?
---Stephen Osita Osadebe is listed as a contributor, along with Paul Ede, Kayode Ige and Dele Ojo.
Late 1960s?
Stephen Osita Osadebe & his Nigeria Sound Makers
Onuigbo b/w Enyi-Mba-Enyi (7" 45; Philips [Lagos] 382816 PF)
-- David Noyes says of "Onuigbo": "...definitely not the Kedu America version!"
Late 1960s?
Stephen Osita Osadebe & his Nigerian Sound Makers
Emengini b/w Baby One Pound No Balance (7" 45; Philips [Lagos] 382889 PF)
Late 1960s?
Commander in Chief Stephen Osita Osadebe & His Nigerian Sound Makers
Okeluwa b/w Ogomu Egbunam (7" 45; Philips [Lagos] PF383155)
Late 1960s?
Commander in Chief Stephen Osita Osadebe and His Nigerian Sound Makers
Kanyi Jikota (Let's Unite) / Olisa Nazo(7" 45; Philips [Lagos] PF 383896)
Late 1960s?
Nigerian Sound Makers
Akanime / Come Again (7" 45; Philips [Lagos] PF 736)
Early 70s?
Commander in Chief Stephen Osita Osadebe & His Nigerian Sound Makers
Late Cardinal Rex Jim Lawson b/w Achuka Nwa Ogbenye (7" 45; Philips [Lagos] 6043131)
Early 70s?
Commander in Chief Stephen Osita Osadebe & His Nigerian Sound Makers
Nulu Onu Anyi b/w Ogu Ejiefor (7" 45; Philips [Lagos] 6043151)
Early 1970s?
Chief Stephen Osita Osadebe
Uwa Bu Onye Meluikeya Onaa!!! (LP; unknown)(CD; Premier Music [Lagos] KMCD 094)
Late Cadinal Rex Lawson / Baby You Waka You Tire / Ndubuisi / Egwu Amala /Achuka Nwa Ogbenye
/ Acha / Nyemobi / Yellow Baby / Uwa BuOnye Meluikeya Onaa!!! / Anyi Lusia Anya Ana.
1972
Commander in Chief Stephen Osadebe & his Nigeria Sound Makers
Uju Special (LP; Philips [Lagos] 6361015)(CD; Premier Music [Lagos] KMCD 052 [as Sisi Kwanangida])
[A] Uju Special Pts. 1 & 2 / She Pts. 1 & 2 / Osy's Introduction Pts. 3 & 4
[B] Sisi Kwanangida Pts. 1 & 2 / Baby One Pound No Balance Pts 3 & 4 / Nwannem Ebezina Pts. 3 & 4
1972
Stephen Osita Osadebe & his Nigeria Sound Makers
Egbunam (LP; Philips [Lagos] 6361024)(CD; Premier Music [Lagos] KMCD 055 [as Matador Special])
[A] Egbunam Pts. 1 & 2 / Ezi Oyi Pts. 1 & 2 / Matador Special Pts. 1 & 2 / Ozo Emezina Pts. 1 & 2
[B] Ezi Ogelidi Pts. 1 & 2 / Obi Enwe Igodi Pts. 1 & 2 / Okalianjo Pts. 1 & 2
1973
The Nkengas
Nkengas In London (LP; Orbitone [Lagos] OTO 006)
[A] William Emeka Omambala / Asa Mpete Special / Anaedo Special
[B] Unzulu Onye / Ige'Gbupi/ Ekene Dili Chukwu
-- A number of members of the Nigeria Sound Makers, led by Victor Okoroego, left the band in the early seventies. They hijacked this Osadebe master tape and released it as "The Nkengas." The Nkengas later changed their name to the Ikenga Super Stars of Africa. Apparently the lead vocals on all of the tunes on "Nkengas in London" are by Osadebe, save "Asa Mpete Special," which features Pele Asampete. This is a slightly reworked version of "Ezi Ogelidi Pts. 1 & 2," from Philips 6361024, above. Pele Asampete later left the Ikengas and did another version of this tune, "Ezi O Goli," on his solo LP (Rogers All Stars RASLPS 043). Pop/highlife star Chris Mba did still another remake in the early 1990s.
1974
Commander in Chief Stephen Osita Osadebe & his Nigeria Sound Makers
Osadebe '75 (LP; Polydor [Lagos] POLP 001)(CD; B.O.N. BON 37 [2004?](CD; Premier Music [Lagos] KMCD 023 [2004?, as Onu Kwube)
[A] Onu Kwube / Ejim Ofor Aga / Instrumental 1
[B] Odindu Nyliba / Nri Sports Di Uso
1975
Chief Stephen Osita Osadebe & his Nigeria Sound Makers
In London (LP; Polydor [Lagos] POLP 003)
[A] Ndi Afu / Oyi Ana / Chukwu Dum Eje
[B] Osita Dimma / Agha Dinjo / Chukwu Emeka
1975
Chief Stephen Osita Osadebe & his Nigeria Sound Makers
Osadebe '76 (LP; Polydor [Lagos] POLP 004)(CD; Premier Music [Lagos] KMCD 115 [as Ome Ie Jide Ofo])
[A] Nwa Di Ugwu / Ome Ie Jide Ofo / Anya Ukwu Dinjo
[B] Inu Pts 1 & 2 / Lord's Special
1976
Chief Stephen Osita Osadebe & his Nigeria Sound Makers International
Osadebe '76 Vol. 2 (LP; Polydor [Lagos] POLP 007)(CD; Premier Music [Lagos] KMCD 057 [as Ogbaro Di Uso])
[A] Ije Uwa Pts 1 & 2 / Ogbaro Di Uso
[B] Rangers International Special
1976
The People's Star
Festac Explosion: The People Star in London (LP; Emerge MLP 001)
[A] Ije Awele / Onwu Dinjo
[B] Onye Lusia Olie / Van Komesia
1977
The People's Star
Festac Explosion 77 Vol. 2: The People Star in London (LP; Volcano VOLP 0077)
[A] Mbaukwu Boys Special
[B] Ogomu Egbunnam / Ngozy Ka / Merengue Alto
-- This LP, along with the previous one, is either a "pirate" recording or is issued under the name "People's Star" as the result of a licensing or copyright dispute.
1977
Chief Stephen Osita Osadebe & his Nigeria Sound Makers
Osadebe '77 Vol. 1 (LP; Polydor [Lagos] POLP 010)(LP; African [France] 366.003)(CD; Premier Music [Lagos] KMCD 032 [as Osadebe '77])
[A] Uche Chukwu Geme / Ogo Di Nkpa
[B] People's Club Odogwu
1977
Chief Stephen Osita Osadebe & his Nigeria Sound Makers
Osadebe '78 (LP; Polydor [Lagos] POLP 017)(CD; Premier Music [Lagos] KMCD 020 [as Atamuna])
[A] Atamuna / Ogbalu'lu Agbaro Oghum
[B] Peace Movement Socials
1977
Chief Stephen Osita Osadebe & his Nigeria Sound Makers
Osadebe '78 Vol 2 - Obiajulu (LP; Polydor [Lagos] POLP 024)
[A] Nne Di Mkpa / Onye Aghana Nwanne
[B] Chukwu Di Uso / Obiajulu
1979
Chief Stephen Osita Osadebe & his Nigeria Sound Makers International
Arum Achoro Nsogbu (Polydor POLP 032)(CD; Premier Music [Lagos] KMCD 114)
[A] Arum Achoro Nsogbu / Onye G'epu Elo N'uwa?
[B] Ugo Youths Special
1980
Chief Stephen Osita Osadebe & his Nigerian Sound Makers International
Osadebe in the '80s - Oyolima Vol. 1 (LP; Polydor [Lagos] POLP 048)(CD; Premier Music [Lagos] KMCD 056 [as Oyolima])
[A] Onyekwelu / Egwu Ani
[B] Oyolima / Late Revd M. A. Okoh (Odozi Obodo)
1980
Chief Stephen Osita Osadebe & his Nigerian Sound Makers International
Agbala Aka No Ani (LP; Polydor [Lagos] POLP 052)(CD; Premier Music [Lagos] KMCD 033 [as Agbalu Aka N'fazo Ani])
[A] Agbala Aka No Ani
[B] Anedo Social Club Bu Onwa
1980
Chief Stephen Osita Osadebe & his Nigerian Sound Makers International
Oyolima's 80 (LP; Polydor [Lagos] POLP 054)
[A] Oge Chukwu ka / Udo Ka Nma
[B] Okwesili Social Special
-- Label says "Oyolima's '81". All other information is the same.
1981
Chief Stephen Osita Osadebe & his Nigerian Sound Makers International
Onu Kwulunjo, Okwue Nma (LP; Polydor [Lagos] POLP 056)(CD; Premier Music [Lagos] KMCD 024 [as Onu Kwulu Njo])
[A] Nwanne Dinamba
[B] Onu Kwulunjo
1981
Chief Stephen Osita Osadebe & his Nigeria Sound Makers International
Onye Bili - Ibeya Ebili (LP; Polydor [Lagos] POLP 058)(CD; Premier Music [Lagos] KMCD 011 [2004?])
[A] Agadi Nwanyi Na Inine
[B] Morning Star Social Club
1981
Chief Stephen Osita Osadebe & his Nigerian Sound Makers International
Nke Onye Diliya (LP; Polydor [Lagos] POLP 060)(CD; Premier Music [Lagos] KMCD 016 [2004?])
[A] E'nu Wa / Nke Onye Diliya
[B] Ozubulu Brothers
1981 (?)
Chief Stephen Osita Osadebe & his Nigeria Sound Makers International
Jim's Special (LP; Sposa [Nigeria] SPOSA 001)
[A] ?
[B] ?
1982
Chief Stephen Osita Osadebe & his Nigeria Sound Makers International
"People's" Club Special 10th Anniversary (LP; Polydor [Lagos] POLP 070)(CD; Premier Music [Lagos] KMCD 017 [2004?])
[A] People's Club Special 10th Anniversary Pt 1
[B] People's Club Special 10th Anniversary Pt 2
1982
Chief Stephen Osita Osadebe & his Nigeria Sound Makers International
Onye Ije Anytago (LP; Polydor [Lagos] POLP 074)(CD; Premier Music [Lagos] KMCD 030)
[A] Onye Ije Anytago
[B] Ekesia Nama Ana Nobi
1982
Chief Stephen Osita Osadebe & his Nigeria Sound Makers International
Onye Achonam (LP; Polydor [Lagos] POLP 075)(CD; Premier Music [Lagos] KMCD 059)
[A] Imo Social Club
[B] Onye Achonam / Eze Obinwa
1982 Chief Stephen Osita Osadebe & his Nigerian Sound Makers International
Ogbahu Akwulugo (LP; Polydor [Lagos] POLP 077)(CD; Premier Music [Lagos] KMCD 034)
[A] Ogbahu Akwulugo
[B] Star Social Club of Nigeria
1982
Chief Stephen Osita Osadebe & his Nigeria Sound Makers International
Ndi Dum Tufu Dum Cho '83 (LP; Sposa [Nigeria] SPOSA 002)
[A] Ndi Dum Tufu Dum Cho
[B] Ekwueme Social Club Special
1982
Chief Stephen Osita Osadebe & his Nigeria Sound Makers International
Igakam Ogonogo (LP; Polydor [Lagos] POLP 089)(CD; Premier Music [Lagos] KMCD 112)
[A] Igakam Ogonogo
[B] Ezi Omume Di Mpka
1982
Chief Stephen Osita Osadebe & his Nigeria Sound Makers International
Okp'uzo Enweilo (LP; Polydor [Lagos] POLP 092)(CD; Premier Music [Lagos] KMCD 031)
[A] Osumenyi Freedom Social Club
[B] Okp'uzo Enweilo
1983
Various Artists
African Music (LP; Vertigo [Netherlands] 814 480-1)
[A] Ekassa 24 (Sir Victor Uwaifo & His Melody Maestroes) / Obiako Nwam (Gentleman Mike Ejeaga & His Premier Dance Band) / Onu Kwulunjo (Chief Stephen Osita Osadebe & His Nigeria Sound Makers International) / Five Days A Week Love (Victor Uwaifo & The Titibitis) / Ewa ( Dr. Victor Olaiya) / Tamuno Bo Ibro Ma (Cardinal Rex Lawson & His Majors Band Of Nigeria)
[B] Odindu Nyuliba (Chief Stephen Osita Osadebe & His Nigeria Sound Makers International) / Let Them Say (Prince Nico Mbarga & His New Rocafil Jazz) / Igede Pt 1 (Celestine Ukwu & His Philosophers National) / Mo Fe Mu 'Yan ( Dr. Victor Olaiya & His International Stars Band) / Ndito Isong Emana Nyin (Martha Ulaeto)
1983
Chief Stephen Osita Osadebe & his Nigeria Sound Makers International
Onye Kwusia Olieonuya (LP; Polydor [Lagos] POLP 101)
[A] Onye Kwusia Olieonuya
[B] Ogidi Social Club Special
1983
Chief Stephen Osita Osadebe & his Nigeria Sound Makers International
Onyeiwe Ewetaro (LP; Polydor [Lagos] POLP 105)
[A] Onyeiwe Ewetaro
[B] Chinwe Okwu
1984
Chief Stephen Osita Osadebe & his Nigeria Sound Makers International
Unubi Top Special (LP; Sposa [Nigeria] SPOSA 006)
[A] Unubi Top Special
[B] Nwa Amaka
1984
Chief Stephen Osita Osadebe & his Nigeria Sound Makers International
Osondi Owendi (LP; Polydor [Lagos] POLP 120)(CD; Premier Music [Lagos] KMCD 036)
[A] Osondi Owendi / Ndidi Kanma
[B] Nigeria Kanyi Jikota
1985
Chief Stephen Osita Osadebe & his Nigeria Sound Makers International
Makojo (LP; Polydor [Lagos] POLP 125)(CD; Mossiac/Premier Music [Lagos] KMCD 013 [2004?])(CD; Premier Music [Lagos] PMCD 023)
[A] Makojo / Egwu Ogolo
[B] Abube 85 Oghiagha / Okugbalu Afia Onitsha
1986
Chief Stephen Osita Osadebe & his Nigeria Sound Makers International
Ndi Ochongonoko (LP; Polydor [Lagos] POLP 144) (CD; Premier Music [New York City] MMCD 013 [2004?])
[A] Ndi Ochongonoko / Yoba Chukwu
[B] Nnwa Dinkpa / Uwa Ebuka
1986
Chief Stephen Osita Osadebe & his Nigeria Sound Makers International
Nwanneka Special (LP; SPOSA, SPOSA 008)
[A] Nwanneka Special
[B] Chukwu ebuka
1987
Chief Stephen Osita Osadebe & his Nigeria Sound Makers International
Onye Lusia Olie (LP; Polydor [Lagos] POLP 159)
[A] Onye Lusia Olie
[B] Uwa Bu Ofumbia
1987
Chief Stephen Osita Osadebe & his Nigeria Sound Makers International
Ife Onye Metalu (LP; Polydor [Lagos] POLP 165)(CD; Premier Music [Lagos] KMCD 015)
[A] Ife Onye Metalu / Onyinye Chukwuka
[B] Echiebukav
1987
Chief Stephen Osita Osadebe & his Nigeria Sound Makers International
People's Club of Nigeria Special (LP; Sposa [Nigeria] SPOSA 010)
[A] People's Club of Nigeria Special Pt 1
[B] People's Club of Nigeria Special Pt 2
1987
Chief Stephen Osita Osadebe & his Nigeria Sound Makers International
Ozonkemadu (LP; Sposa [Nigeria] SPOSA 012)
[A] People's Freedom Industrial Club of Nigeria
[B] Ozonkemadu
1988
Chief Stephen Osita Osadebe & his Nigerian Sound Makers International
Nigeria Go Better! (LP; Polydor [Lagos] POLP 184)
[A] Nigeria Go Better
[B] Olisa Zobanyi
1988
Chief Stephen Osita Osadebe & his Nigerian Sound Makers International
Ana Masi Ife Uwa (LP; Polydor [Lagos] POLP 194)(CD; Premier Music [Lagos] KMCD 014)
[A] Gwam Okwu / Onu 'Wa
[B] Ana Masi Ife Uwa
1989
Chief Stephen Osita Osadebe & his Nigerian Sound Makers International
Abu Aku (LP; label unknown)
[A] ?
[B] ?
1990
Chief Stephen Osita Osadebe & his Nigerian Sound Makers International
Ezi Oyi Amaka (LP; Polydor [Lagos] POLP 232)
[A] Ezi Oyi Amaka
[B] Ogo Abulu Njo
1990
Chief Stephen Osita Osadebe & his Nigerian Sound Makers International
Late Sam Okwaraji (LP; Polydor [Lagos] POLP 245) (CD; Premier Music [Lagos] KMCD 058 [as Osita Merengue])
[A] Late Sam Okwaraji / Merengue
[B] Ndi-Ichie Cultural Club USA
1991
Chief Stephen Osita Osadebe & his Nigerian Sound Makers International
Ife Chukwu Kanma (LP; Premier Music [Lagos] KMLP 001)(CD; Premier Music [Lagos] KMCD 093)
[A] Ife Chukwu Kanma
[B] Mba' Ma Onye Ukwu
1992
Chief Stephen Osita Osadebe and his Nigerian Sound Makers International
Eji-Keme-Uwa (LP; Joneb JNLP 009)
[A] Amichi Noble Club of Nigeria
[B] Eji-Keme-Uwa
---Martin Meulenberg of the Madunia Foundation writes, "...pretty recent, though it sounds 70s."
1993
Chief Stephen Osita Osadebe & his Nigerian Sound Makers International
Osadebe '93 (LP; Leader [Lagos] LD (N) 8638)
[A] Akonam (Critics)
[B] Ndiamuma 'Si (Prophesy)
1993
Chief Stephen Osita Osadebe & his Nigerian Sound Makers International
Osadebe '94 - Udora Ka Ama (LP; Leader [Lagos] LD (N) 8639)
[A] Udora Ka Ama
[B] Konkima
1994
Chief Stephen Osita Osadebe & his Nigeria Sound Makers International
Onye Amamife (Cassette; Premier Music [Lagos] KMC 035)(CD; Premier Music [Lagos] PMCD 024 [2001]) (CD; Premier Music [Lagos] KMCD 035)
[A] Kwue Nkeyi / Ozubulu Brothers
[B] Onye Achonam / Eze Obinwa / Onye Amamife
1995
Chief Stephen Osita Osadebe & his Nigerian Sound Makers International
The Best of Osadebe (Perrison World Music (Toronto) CD; no reference number)
Osadebe in London / Ogbaro Special / Onu Kwuru Njo G, Ekwu Nma / Nwa Di Egwu / Osondi Owendi
-- This CD is probably a "pirate" pressing, remastered from scratchy old LPs rather than the original master tapes. The titles also vary from the original pressings; for instance, "Ije Awele" from "Festac Explosion: The People Star in London" is listed as "Osadebe in London", the medley "Onu Kwube / Ejim Ofor Aga / Instrumental 1" from "Osadebe '75" as "Ogbaro Special", "Onu Kwulunjo" from "Onu Kwulunjo, Okwue Nma" as "Onu Kwuru Njo G, Ekwu Nma" and "Nwa di Ugwu" from "Osadebe '76" as "Nwa Di Egwu". The inlay card also lists a track, "Osadebe '77", which is in fact not on the disc.
1996
Chief Stephen Osita Osadebe & his Nigeria Sound Makers International
Kedu America (Xenophile (US) CD XENO 4044, CD; Leader [Lagos] no reference number)
Onuigbo / Ka-Anyi Jikota / Aye Mama / Merengue Sposa/Nyem Obi Gi / Agbalu Aka No Azo Ani / Osondi Owendi / Nwanem Ebezina / Kedu America
1996
Chief Stephen Osita Osadebe & his Nigeria Sound Makers
The Best of Chief Stephen Osadebe (4 CD set; Premier Music POCD0048)
[A] Onyekwelu / Egwu Ani / Oyolima / Late Revd M. A. Okoh (Odozi Obodo)
[B] Onu Kwube / Ejim Ofor Aga / Instrumental 1 / Odindu Nyliba / Nri Sports Di Uso
[C] Gwam Okwu / Onu 'Wa / Ana Masi Ife Uwa / Igakam Ogonogo / Ezi Omume Di Mpka
[D] Osondi Owendi / Ndidi Kanma / Nigeria Kanyi Jikota / Makojo / Egwu Ogolo / Abube 85 Oghiagha / Okugbalu Afia Onitsha
1997
Chief Stephen Osita Osadebe
Osadebe in America (Cassette; Leader [Lagos] LD (N) 8645)
[A] Aiyem Obi Gi / Nwanem Ebezina / Aye Ma Ma
[B] Agbakalaka / Osondi Owendi 97
1997
Chief Stephen Osita Osadebe
Classics Vol. 1 (CD; Mossaic Music [New York City] MMCD 0455)
Ezi Oyi / Ogo Abulu Njo / Late Sam Okwaraji / Merengue / Ndi-Ichie
Cultural Club USA
-- Reissue of POLP 232 & POLP 245
2000?
Chief Stephen Osita Osadebe & his Nigerian Soundmakers
Classic Hits Vol. 1 (CD; Leader [Lagos] no reference number)
Akonam (Critics) / Udora Ka Ama (Peace is the Best) / Ndi Amuma Asi (False Prophecy) / Obinwanne (Brotherhood)
2001
Chief Stephen Osita Osadebe & his Nigerian Soundmakers
Sound Time (CD; IndigeDisc [US] 495 001)
Oyolima / Gwam Okwu / Onu' Wa / Makojo / Ana Masi Ife Uwa / Egwu Ogolo / Nri Sports Di Uso
-- "Best of" compilation. Most of the tunes have been edited for this release.
2001?
Chief Stephen Osita Osadebe & his Nigerian Sound Makers International
People's Club (CD; Premier Music [Lagos) PMCD 004)
?
2001
Chief Stephen Osita Osadebe & his Nigerian Sound Makers International
Greatest Hits Vol. 2 (CD; Premier Music [Lagos] PMCD 006)
Osondi Owendi / Matador / NRI Sports Club / Ndidi Kanma / Onu Kwube / Ejim Ofor Aga
2001?
Chief Stephen Osita Osadebe & his Nigerian Sound Makers International
Greatest Hits Vol. 3 (CD; Premier Music [Lagos] PMCD 007)
Ife Onye Metalu / Oyinye Chukwu Ka / Echiebuka / Abube 85 Ochiagha
2002?
Chief Stephen Osita Osadebe & his Nigerian Sound Makers International
Osadebe in Atlanta (CD; Panovo/Leader; no reference number)
Onwadima / Onyeoma Bishop / Chukwuma / Nigeria Women In Ralega / Jesus Bu Onye Ndu / Kedu America
2002?
Chief Stephen Osita Osadebe & his Nigerian Sound Makers International
Social Club Special (CD; Premier Music [Lagos] PMCD 022)
Star Social Club / Morning Star Social Club / Ozubulu Brothers / Anedo Social Club
2001
Chief Stephen Osita Osadebe & his Nigerian Sound Makers International
Club America (CD; Green Card Music GVGC01)
Matador / Friends Link Houston / Ndichie / Osue / Ndi House / Kedu America Part II
The CD was recorded in Seattle, Washington state, USA by Andrew Frankel of Graviton Production in September of 2001.
2002?
Various Artists
High Life Kings Vol. 1 (CD; Premier Music [Lagos] KMCD 01)
Osondi Owendu (Chief Stephen Osita Osadebe) / Onye Uri Ubata (Mike Ejeagha) / Igede (Celestine Ukwu) / Usondu (Celestine Ukwu) / Bere Bote (Rex Lawson) / Omo Pupa (Dr. Victor Olaiya) / Joromi (Sir Victor Uwaifo) / Kwue Nkenyi (Chief Stephen Osita Osadebe) / Anate (Rex Lawson) / Okwudili (Paulson Kalu) / Ugwu Onyirika Watu (Paulson Kalu) / Sanmari Adugbo (Wuru Fadaka)
2002?
Various Artists
High Life Kings Vol. 2 (CD; Premier Music [Lagos] KMCD 02)
Makojo (Chief Stephen Osita Osadebe) / Esonta (Chief Inyang Henshaw) / Ebonjo Eedidem Iban (Chief Inyang Henshaw) / Pariboto Riboto (Dr. Victor Olaiya) / Jolaosho (St. Augustine & The Rovers Dance Band) / Ogirri (St. Augustine & The Rovers Dance Band) / Atabala Woman ( Professional Seagulls Dance Band) / Afro Baby ( Professional Seagulls Dance Band) / Akuete (Victor Uwaifo) / Joromi (Sir Victor Uwaifo) / Okina (Akaba Man) / Abari Biya (Rex Lawson) / Ikpechakwa A-Akem Kpee (Gentle Man Ejeagha) / Yoba Chukwu (Chief Stephen Osita Osadebe) / Osuala Oru Enene (Cardinal Rex Lawson) / Guitar Boy (Sir Victor Uwaifo)
-- Track titles and artists are listed here as they are on these two CD's, although in some cases they are misspelled.
2003?
Various Artists
The Kings of Highlife (CD; Wrasse Records [UK] WRASS 097)
Guitar Boy (Sir Victor Uwaifo) / Makojo (Chief Stephen Osita Osadebe) / Joromi (Sir Victor Uwaifo) / Omo Pupa (Dr. Victor Olaiya) / Osondi Owendi (Chief Stephen Osita Osadebe) / Anate (Sir Rex Jim Lawson) / Okwudili (Paulson Kalu) / Sanmari Adugbo (Wura Fadaka) / Esonta (Chief Inyang Henshaw) / Ikpechakwa A-Akem Kpee (Gentle Man Ejeagha) / Igede (Celestine Ukwu) / Bere Bote (Sir Rex Jim Lawson) / Usondu (Celestine Ukwu) / So Fun Mi (Dr. Victor Olaiya)
--
An abbreviated version of the 2-volume Premier Records set High Life Kings (above).
2004
Chief Stephen Osita Osadebe & his Nigerian Sound Makers International
Nadia na Nadia (CD; I. K. B. IKB5)
Ewelu-Ewegalu / Ndia na Ndia / Odenigbo / Achula Nwa Ogbene
2004
Chief Stephen Osita Osadebe & his Nigerian Sound Makers International
Club Hits Vol. 1 (CD; G.R. GR 523)
Nsukka Unity Social Club of Nigeria / Awka-Etiti Social Club of Nigeria / Ekwueme Social Club of Nigeria / People's Freedom Club of Nigeria
?
Chief Stephen Osita Osadebe
Nne Na Nwa (CD; Leader/Panovo SKY-13)
Nwa Si Na / Nneya Amararu / Igwe Buike / Peace Club
Obiajulu Emmanuel Osadebe Discography
(B. 1966, Atani-Ogbaru LGA, Anambra State) The eldest son of Chief Stephen, he received his Bachelors Degree in Finance and Masters in Banking and Finance from the University of Jos in 1992. His love and interest in music, naturally, started at an early age, and he has performed with his father's band for 15 years. They back him up on his first two solo releases. Obiajulu Osadebe is currently based in Atlanta, USA & recently toured the US with King Sunny Ade.
1990
Obiajulu Emmanuel Osadebe backed by Chief Stephen Osita Osadebe & his Nigeria Sound Makers International
Udo Ka Nma (Polydor POLP 238)
[A] Udo Ka Nma
[B] Unwu Di Njo
1992
Obiajulu Emmanuel Osadebe
Odiniru Kaka (Premier KMLP 006)
[A] Odiniru Kaka / Ogo Ebuka
[B] Anyi Bibe
1998
Nze Obiajulu Osadebe Nnanyelugo
Ifugo America (O & I International Productions (Atlanta, Georgia, US) CD OANDI001)
Ka-Anyiebi / Ifugo America / Nwa Di Ugwu/Anyukwu Bu Njo / Onyirimba Special / Mbaezue Special / Udo Ka Nma / Onuwa
1999
Nze Obiajulu Osadebe
Inyinyo - Shadow
(CD; label & reference number not known)
?
2000
Nze Obiajulu Osadebe
Osadebe's Explosion 2000
(CD; label & reference number not known)
?
http://likembe.blogspot.com/
--These discographies were compiled, in collaboration with Toshiya Endo, by John Beadle at P.O. Box 100174, Milwaukee, WI 53210 USA. For weblog, visit (http://likembe.blogspot.com/), and
E-mail to John Beadle
Special thanks to: Kazutoshi Tsuchiyama, Niek Lemmens, Gilbert Hsiao, David Noyes, Dolf Mots, Martin Meulenberg of the Madunia Foundation (http://www.madunia.nl/), Craig Taylor, Godwin Kwushue, Kazuya Ogiwara, Frank Wouters, Michael Johnson, Zim Bida..Some information in the introduction is taken from the liner notes of Sound Time by Chuzzy Udenwa.
Last updated on October 12, 2015
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