Fuji music icon Wasiu Ayinde, popularly known as KWAM 1 or K1 De Ultimate, recently opened up about the deep influence his late mother had on his musical journey.
At 68 years old, the veteran artist revealed that his mother, Princess Halima Anifowoshe, was not only a guiding force but also an important contributor to his success in music.
KWAM 1 shared these insights during a podcast interview promoting his latest project, Ganusi The Album, Fuji Classical.
He explained that the song “Mama,” featured on the album, is a heartfelt tribute to his mother and her role in shaping his career.
A mother’s musical legacy
According to KWAM 1, his mother was his first music teacher. She taught him the basics, the rudiments of music and singing, from a young age. More than that, she often acted as his composer. “Very many times during her lifetime, she made her own contribution to my musical development,” KWAM 1 said.
He revealed that his mother had dreams of becoming a musician herself. However, her royal background and the expectations placed on her as a woman stopped her from pursuing music professionally. “My mother, as a young maiden lady, was a singer,” he said. “But she was a princess by birth, and because of what she was, a princess of a sitting king, and also a woman, she was denied the opportunity to fully show her talent.”
Despite these restrictions, KWAM 1 believes that his mother’s musical gift was passed down to him by divine will. “Everything was transported on me by God. She transferred her talent to me,” he said.
The song “Mama” as a tribute
To honour her memory and lasting influence, KWAM 1 dedicated the song “Mama” to Princess Halima Anifowoshe. He described the track as a blessing and a tribute to his mother’s contribution to his life and career.
“It is honorable for me to remember her with this song,” he said. “She deserves to be celebrated because of all she did for me and the music.”
Remembering Princess Halima Anifowoshe
Princess Halima Anifowoshe passed away in January 2025. Her death marked the end of an era for KWAM 1, who continues to cherish the lessons and support she gave him throughout his career.
KWAM 1’s openness about his mother’s influence highlights the personal stories behind his music. Fans now have a deeper understanding of the roots that helped shape one of Nigeria’s most celebrated Fuji artists.
Legacy of talent and dedication
KWAM 1’s tribute goes beyond just a song. It shows the powerful impact family can have on an artist’s journey. His mother’s musical talents, though never fully realised publicly, live on through her son’s success.
As Ganusi The Album Fuji Classical reaches listeners, the story of Princess Halima Anifowoshe reminds us that behind every great artist, there are often unseen heroes who guide and inspire them from the start.
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