Sola Benson

Veteran Nigerian music icon Queen Salawa Abeni has added another remarkable year to her enduring legacy, celebrating her 65th birthday on Tuesday, May 5, 2026, surrounded by her children, close family members, and loyal aides.

The celebration was a fitting tribute to a woman whose name has become synonymous with Waka music in Nigeria. Loved across generations for her unique voice, stage charisma, and cultural influence, the legendary singer continues to command admiration decades after she first stepped into the spotlight.

Born on May 5, 1961, in Ijebu Waterside, Queen Salawa Abeni rose from modest beginnings to become one of the most influential female musicians in the country’s history. Her journey into music started remarkably early, and by the age of 13, she had already begun laying the foundation for what would become an extraordinary career.

She released her debut album in 1976 under Leader Records, dedicating the project to the late Nigerian Head of State, Murtala Ramat Mohammed, who was assassinated that same year. The project achieved a groundbreaking milestone, becoming the first album by a female Yoruba singer to sell more than one million copies in Nigeria.

Reflecting on her remarkable career, admirers often describe Queen Salawa Abeni as a symbol of resilience and excellence in a male-dominated entertainment industry. At a time when female artistes struggled for recognition, she carved a space for herself with determination and talent, transforming Waka music into a respected and commercially successful genre.

Her songs, deeply rooted in Yoruba culture and storytelling, resonated with audiences across social classes. Through emotionally rich lyrics and captivating performances, she inspired fans, shaped cultural conversations, and became a household name within and beyond Nigeria.

Beyond her achievements in music, Queen Salawa Abeni also made notable appearances in Nollywood productions, further cementing her reputation as a cultural trailblazer. Her influence continues to stretch across entertainment circles, where she is widely celebrated as a pioneer who opened doors for many female artistes in indigenous music.

Speaking about her legacy over the years, the singer has repeatedly emphasised the importance of perseverance and staying true to one’s craft — values many of her fans believe are reflected in her decades-long success.

As tributes pour in from colleagues, fans, and well-wishers, Queen Salawa Abeni’s 65th birthday stands not only as a personal milestone but also as a celebration of a living legend whose impact on Nigerian music remains undeniable.