Something big is going on right now within the entertainment space that only those deeply involved in the sector are privy to. There is palpable excitement amongst not just veteran musicians but also contemporary artists. As you read this, preparations are in top gear for the opening and launch of Heritage Event Hall. In this exquisitely designed concert/event hall, musicians of diverse genres of music can gather to entertain their fans and express their artistic prowess. A place where people can walk in after a hard day’s work and listen to beautiful live music, from top artists, that will soothe their nerves and lift up their spirits.
This has been a long-time dream of late music Afficionado, Chief Femi Esho, who, before his death, was the Chairman of Evergreen Musical Company. He was also regarded as the largest collector of African music. There is no notable Nigerian musician whose works would not be found in the archives of Evergreen Musical Company. Esho wanted to build a massive music empire, something like a stop shop for music lovers. It will consist of a music museum, music library, gallery showcasing Head Burst of Artistes, display of over 1,000 pictures of Nigerian musicians from 1914 and relics of their costumes/old musical instruments, an event centre for music concerts, cinema theatre, recording studio, and so much more. It is expected to become a big tourist attraction centre for all enthusiasts of Nigerian music.
Almost two years after his demise, Esho’s dream is gradually turning into a reality. Though there is still a lot of work to be done on the project, the one part that was very dear to Baba Esho the most, the event hall for concerts and live performances from musicians, has been completed and is ready to open for activities to commence.
But this significant achievement would not have become a reality today without the invaluable support and contribution of one of Nigeria’s most respected clergies and a globally renowned man of God, Dr. DK. Olukoya, the General Overseer of Mountain of Fire and Miracles Ministries. Are you surprised at the connection? Allow us to give you the full picture.
Many know that Dr. Olukoya rarely gets involved in anything outside the church and the work of God. He confines himself strictly within Evangelical and spiritual circles. But what many don’t know is that Dr. Olukoya and Baba Esho were very good friends. Olukoya followed the music trajectory of late Chief Femi Esho and had tremendous respect for his works as well. And, this is where it gets even more interesting: Dr. Olukoya is not just a first-class major, the best in his course at Unilag; he is also a lover of quality music. He has a rich knowledge of many genres of music. He believed in Esho’s dream. No wonder why he agreed to be Patron of the Evergreen Music Heritage Foundation. The two friends have always shared a strong passion for quality music.
Dr. Olukoya himself teaches music. He wrote his first song in 1976, and his church choir is widely regarded as one of the best in the world, having won several international choir competitions in Europe and other parts of the world. So, the collaboration between the two men was a perfect match.
According to Bimbo Esho, the Executive Secretary of the foundation, Dr. Olukoya’s financial and moral contribution to the realisation of the project and the completion of Heritage Event Hall, has been invaluable. It is to his credit that the foundation has been able to complete work on the Heritage Event Hall, and it’s now ready for activities.
What is most instructive is the fact that Dr. Olukoya not only kept his pledge and promises made to his late friend as Patron of the foundation, but he also stood by the family during the painful passing of their father and supported them every single step of the way in ensuring that the first significant part of the foundation, the concert hall, is now ready for use. To the family of Baba Esho, Dr. Olukoya has proven that he is a dependable friend, one who can be trusted to stand in the gap as their father should they need a refuge to run to…a man of his word who will not fail to keep his promises even when the man he made the promises to is no more. And, according to Bimbo Esho, daughter of the late Afficionado who also doubles as MD of Evergreen Musical Company, “The Esho family remains eternally grateful to Dr. Olukoya for his unwavering financial support and fatherly love; we will never take his love for the family for granted,” she promises.
For music lovers who loved popular old hangouts of the 60’s such as Kakadu, Stadium Hotel, Ariya Spot, Miliki joints and others, the Heritage Event Hall for concerts, live performances, and other activities is just the right place to be. It will give our indigenous musicians a platform to be seen and be heard. Their fans, lovers of quality live music, will be thrilled to no end when the place is officially opened for use. This is what late Chief Femi Esho always wanted to have.
No doubt about it, the Heritage Event Hall is a must for everyone to visit and see. The breathtaking ambience, the touch of delicate class put into the finishings and exquisite-looking chandeliers and lightings all combine to make it such a beautiful Haven. The hall also has lodgings for late-night performances, where artists and crew members can stay till dawn.
While the Eshos are excited about the take off of the Heritage Event Hall, they are also looking forward to getting more support from the public and friends of the foundation towards the completion of the Studio, Exhibition Hall of Fame, library, and theatre space, all under one roof. It promises to be a must-see tourist destination when completed.
Aptly described as a venue with soul, for events that deserve one, Heritage Event Hall can also host other activities such as album launches, listening parties, corporate dinners and gala nights, and film and documentary screenings.
The hall is also available for cultural forums and lectures, birthdays & milestone celebrations, memorial and Thanksgiving services, workshops, master classes, and rehearsals.
