I’ll never abandon my husband’s legacy —Latoya

The widow of late Orlando Julius Ekemode, Latoya Aduke, has penned a message to commemorate the one year remembrance of her husband and legendary musician and saxophonist, popularly known as OJ.

Latoya, who took a break late last year  to rest and mourn her husband in the United States where, she met him initially, said she will never abandon her husband’s legacy re-afirming to family, friends and fans of Orlando as she plans

ORLANDO JULIUS AFROHOUSE OF HIGHLIFE  (OJAHH) festival in September.

Orlando Julius whose music impacted generations, died on April 14, 2022, at age 79, and was buried in Ijebu-Ijesha in Osun State, May 28.

His soul mate, Latoya, an accomplished dancer and musician, said she is full of gratitude to friends, dignitaries, music associates and family members that stood by her during the death and burial of Orlando Julius.

“On the 1st year of Orlando’s ascension, I would love to thank everyone who stood by me and supported me during the hardest time of my life. You know who you are , don’t need to name people.

“I’m not in Nigeria because of obvious reasons, but that doesn’t mean I am forgetting my husband! We met in the US. I celebrated Orlando’ while alive and will continue to do so. Everything Orlando and I have done, has been done with taste and style, and will continue to do so including the planned OJAHH Festival.

It’s important for Orlando and my admires to know I have not and never will abandon my husband’s legacy,” Latoya said.

She along with a team plans to hold, Orlando Julius Afrohouse of Highlife  (OJAHH) festival in September. OJAHH is an artiste development centre and performance arena, which will house an ultra modern studio where young artistes can hone their skills and record.

A tribute concert by Afroblackish band, was held virtually last Friday to mark a year of Orlando Julius’s demise.

Top personalities in the music industry such as Tony Okoroji, Dede Mabiaku, Yinka Davies among others were in Ijebu Ijesha, last year to pay their last respect to the legendary saxophonist, songwriter,  OJ whose music like Asiko, Ololufe, Love Peace and Happiness, Dance Afrobeat still resonates with many.