If Olanrewaju Abdul-Ganiyu Fasasi, popularly known as Sound Sultan, were alive today, he would undoubtedly have expanded his iconic #EdideEmuSariJe campaign, garnering support from corporate organizations to further his ideals. Sadly, the multi-talented artist passed away on July 11, 2021, in the United States after a courageous battle with Angioimmunoblastic T-cell lymphoma (AITL), a rare form of non-Hodgkin lymphoma.
Standing tall at 6 feet 4 inches, Sound Sultan was more than just a singer, rapper, songwriter, comedian, producer, and actor. He was a mentor, a talent discoverer, and a visionary. Had he lived, he would have continued to nurture young talents, produce more films, release new music, and further his investment in the Lagos Islanders Basketball Club. He would also have been preparing to celebrate his 48th birthday on November 27.
However, as is often the case, the world moves on after the passing of even the most beloved figures. Many promises made by friends, associates, and family may have faded with time. Yet, Sound Sultan’s legacy endures through his loving widow, Chichi Morah (Faridah Fasasi), and his three children, Mayowa, Bidemi, and Zara, who are growing up beautifully.
One individual who has taken it upon himself to preserve Sound Sultan’s memory is Idris Olorunnimbe, founder and Group Chief Executive of The Temple Company and Ogidi Studios. Recognizing Sound Sultan’s deep commitment to his Islamic faith and his contributions to the entertainment industry, Olorunnimbe inaugurated the annual Sound Sultan Ramadan Lecture. This event serves as a platform to honor the late artist’s memory, with Islamic scholars offering prayers for his soul and his family in attendance.
Since Sound Sultan’s passing, The Temple Company has held four editions of the lecture. The most recent event took place on Wednesday, March 6, 2024, at the Temple Management headquarters on Victoria Island, Lagos. Attendees included Idris Olorunnimbe, artists like L.A.X and Bisola Aiyeola, industry figures such as Tunde Folawiyo and Sheerafat Andu (Arabel boss), and the National Missioner of the Ansar Ud Deen Society of Nigeria, Sheikh AbdulRahman Ahmad, who led prayers and delivered a Ramadan lecture.
Sound Sultan’s life was a testament to integrity and faith. In an industry often associated with vices, he remained a non-smoker, teetotaler, and devout Muslim throughout his life. He defied stereotypes, proving that fame and fortune could be achieved without compromising one’s values. His commitment to his faith and his clean lifestyle set him apart as a role model in the Nigerian entertainment scene.
Reflecting on Sound Sultan’s life, actor and comedian Tomiwa ‘Sage’ Kukoyi shared, “During every Ramadan since 2010, #EdideEmuSariJe was a bant we all jumped on, on Twitter. Egbon would tweet this at Tahajjud hours and at Sahur. He would do a little giveaway for those who fasted. But in all, Sound Sultan lived heavily, like a true Muslim, and lived a life of service.”
Sound Sultan’s legacy continues to inspire, reminding us of the power of faith, integrity, and service. Through initiatives like the Ramadan Lecture and the enduring love of his family, his memory lives on, ensuring that his impact on Nigerian culture and society is never forgotten.
First published on The Nation