Death is something that happens to even the best of us. It is never wanted, never expected, never welcomed, but it always happens. Someone once told me that ‘The Good Die Young’- I agree wholeheartedly. How can one explain the sudden and brutal demise of Dapo Olaitan Olaonikpekun aka Da Grin aka Fimile jooor aka CEO? It’s a sad and totally unwelcome development; but God knows best and death will come when it will, so we’ll take solace in that.
I first heard Da Grin’s widely popular song ‘Kondo’ at a party, and I was like ‘Who be this dude?’ His lyricism, fantastic fusion of English and Yoruba, and earthiness literally blew me away and I rushed to buy his album. I wasn’t disappointed; in fact tracks like Ghetto Dream, Pon Pon Pon, and Gboro became everyday listens on my BB. Finally here was a guy I could relate to on some levels. His realness, street credibility, and humility shone through his music like a 100 watt bulb.
I’ll never forget chuckling to myself when I heard him say in Pon Pon Pon ‘Omo naija ni mi, mo ma’n fi eyin mi si Pepsi (I’m a Nigerian, I use my teeth to open Pepsi) – Deep? Maybe not, Real? Absolutely! That was Da Grin for you. His whole sophomore album chronicled his rags to riches story, his days without food, the pain of trying to cut a record deal, and finally the joy and success that came with being recognized. And inspite of his fame and recognition, Da Grin remained a cool and humble dude. ‘I knew him and he was one of the nicest, most humble persons ever’ says Ajibola Ayana Olubiyi of Swe Bar Lagos
I’m not going into the details of the accident that finally claimed his life. He’s dead and that’s all that matters right now. For someone who was set to stride across the Nigerian music scene like a colossus in 2010, Da Grin’s death is a huge blow to everyone. My heart goes out most especially to his family; I pray that God grants them the fortitude to bear the monumental loss.
Da Grin is gone at only 23 years of age; but he lives on forever in my heart. Rest In Peace Da Grin. Sun re o Dapo! Rest easy from all your struggles; you’re in heaven now drinking heavenly champagne.
I think this was one artist that would have made a great impact on the naija music scene.He had tremendous stage presence, which he controlled as a solo artist,capturing his fans with his music delivered with so much passion!...............kk
ReplyDeleteRest in peace Dapo, you had such a great and explosive future ahead.......God knows best.
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