King Sunny Adé

King Sunny Adé (born 1946) revolutionized Jùjú music by incorporating electric guitars, synthesizers, and pedal steel guitars while maintaining traditional talking drums. His "synchro-system" features interlocking guitar patterns and polyrhythmic percussion. In 1982, he signed with Island Records, releasing albums that introduced African music to Western audiences. He has released over 120 albums, won numerous awards including Grammy nominations, and influenced artists from Paul Simon to David Byrne. At over 75, he continues performing, proving that African music can maintain cultural authenticity while achieving global reach.