The consensus for the King of Igbo Highlife is widely considered to be Chief Stephen Osita Osadebe.

His influence and enduring popularity secured this title:

• Pioneer Status: Osadebe’s career spanned over four decades, and he was instrumental in pioneering and transforming the traditional Igbo singing style into the modern Highlife genre.
• Signature Hit: He is most famous for his 1984 global hit, “Osondi Owendi,” which means “one person’s pleasure is another’s pain,” a philosophical song that brought him international acclaim.
• The “Doctor of Hypertension”: Due to the soothing and feel-good nature of his highlife grooves, he was also famously nicknamed the “Doctor of Hypertension.”

While other giants like Oliver De Coque (known for popularizing the guitar-based style and praise-singing) and Dr. Sir Warrior (leader of the Oriental Brothers International Band) are also foundational legends, Chief Stephen Osita Osadebe is the artist most frequently cited as the reigning king.