By Funmi Omisore- Ogbuagu
It was exactly 5th October,2019 that he left (his wives,children, grand children, in-laws and relatives) to the world beyond.
Born in 1937 to the Omisore royal family,in the ancient kingdom of Ile-Ife,in present day Osun State.He was a highlife legend, a master guitarist. Gbade Omisore toured round the country and beyond displaying his classical highlife musical talent. He was the favorite of some eminent personalities because of his skills in manipulating musical equipments.
He won many music awards and entertained soldiers after the Civil War at Cabino and other hotels in Agbor, in the old Bendel State. While in Agbor, he was closed to the ruling class of Agbor kingdom in the 70s, notable musicians like late Morgan(Senior) , Ucheka and others.
Speedy Gbade formed the defunct Bendel Art Council and led the Council for many years. While in the Art Council he composed songs, including the famous songto welcome General Muhammadu Buhari to the old Bendel State..
He won the hearts of many with his highlife,the uniqueness of his music makes it easy to identify him on stage, while many likened him to Sunny Ade, because of his style of music.Speedy,as he was popular called was ready to coach the young ones who have interest in music.He participated in Politics in Edo State and honoured invitation to play in several political functions.
His involvement in church ministrations, made many gospel ministers fell in love with him, that many invited him to coach several church choirs. He honoured these invitations,not minding his age and failing health, and was later made a Deacon by his church.
Daddy Speedy Gbade Omisore will ever be remembered for his musical skills, friendliness, tolerance, patience and humility.His foot prints are indelible.
Daddy,Continue to rest in the bosom of the LORD!!!
