The family of the late legendary musician Sunny Okosun has revealed plans to preserve and promote his musical legacy for future generations.
Speaking on Sunday at a “Make a Widow Smile for Christmas” event organised by the Advocacy for Widows Empowerment Foundation (ADWEF) at Okosun’s church in Lagos, his brother, Iwa Okosun, said the family intends to remix some of the late artist’s works in 2026.
Sunny Okosun, who passed away in 2008, left an indelible mark on Nigerian music and society through his pioneering work in African liberation music, blending Afrobeat, reggae, and funk.
His band, Ozzidi, became synonymous with messages promoting pan-Africanism, social justice, and freedom, and later, he transitioned into gospel music, founding his church which continues to operate today.
“The essence is to keep his memories and legacies alive. Yes, Okosun is late, but his legacy lives on.
“We still keep everything about him alive, the music, the videos, and even his church.
”His church, being the house of God, will never close down because family members and church congregants continue to worship there, ” he said.
He explained that sustaining the late musician’s legacies has been a family effort.
Many members, including his children, nephews, and nieces, are musically inclined, continuing the tradition he started.
“My nephew, my niece, and cousins, they all sing. I myself am an artist and I sing too,” he said.
However, Iwa Okosun noted that financial constraints remain a significant challenge in keeping these projects active.
While some friends and partners occasionally provide support, he lamented the difficulty of maintaining momentum without the late artist’s personal influence and resources.
“When one is alive and money is flowing, everybody wants to be attached to you; but the moment someone is gone, you can’t see any friend again,” he added.
The family also organised an annual memorial event on May 23 to honour Okosun’s contributions to music and society.
Iwa Okosun expressed confidence that these efforts will ensure that the late musician’s works and messages continue to inspire generations.
Born in 1947, Sunny Okosun rose to prominence for his revolutionary approach to music, using it as a vehicle to champion African unity and liberation.
Through his Ozzidi band and subsequent gospel endeavors, he cemented a legacy that his family is determined to uphold.
