Celebrating the Lijadu Sisters: Nigeria’s Twin Music Icons

Taiwo and Kehinde Lijadu, prominent figures in Nigeria's 1970s music scene, are being celebrated for their groundbreaking contributions to pop music and feminism. Their unique sound blended various genres, including apala, Afrobeat, and disco, making them pioneers among female artists in a male-dominated industry. The sisters' music, characterized by their synchronized harmonies, has influenced many contemporary artists, despite facing challenges such as disrespect and harassment in their early careers. Five years after Kehinde's passing from breast cancer in 2019, the Lijadu Sisters' legacy is being honored with the remastering and reissuing of their five albums from the 1970s. The first of these reissues, 'Horizon Unlimited,' is set to be released soon, marking a significant moment for the duo's recognition in the music industry. Their work has not only been sampled by artists like Nas and Ayra Starr but has also inspired a new generation of female musicians, including Tems and Hayley Williams. The sisters' story is one of resilience and triumph, as they navigated a challenging music landscape while advocating for women's rights. Their experiences in the studio, as depicted in Jeremy Marre's 1979 documentary, highlight the struggles they faced while trying to assert their voices in a male-dominated environment. Despite the loss of Kehinde, Taiwo continues to honor their shared legacy and the impact they made on the music scene. The reissue of their albums serves as a reminder of their trailblazing influence and the importance of recognizing female artists in the history of music. As their work gains renewed attention, it underscores the ongoing conversation about gender equality and representation in the arts.