Chief Stephen Osita Osadebe (1936-2007) was a Nigerian highlife musician known for his philosophical lyrics and mellow sound. He formed his band in 1964 and released over 500 songs during his 40-year career. Osadebe's music addressed everyday life, love, and wisdom in gentle, flowing melodies. Hits like "Osondi Owendi" (One Man's Meat is Another Man's Poison) became anthems. He received numerous honors including chieftaincy titles. Osadebe's legacy continues through his son Osita Osadebe Jr., who leads the band today.


HIGHLIFE MASTER STORYTELLER:
Chief Stephen Osita Osadebe composed songs that blended velvety horns, verse-chorus call-and-response, and philosophical lyrics delivered in Igbo and English. His gentle baritone narrated themes of patience, resilience, and communal harmony, making his music a soundtrack for celebrations across West Africa.

BANDLEADER AND ARRANGER:
Forming his band in 1964, Osadebe refined highlife with sophisticated horn arrangements, twin guitars, and syncopated percussion. The evergreen hit Osondi Owendi (One Man’s Meat Is Another Man’s Poison) sold millions and remains one of the most recognisable Nigerian songs globally. He recorded more than 40 studio albums with labels such as Decca and Polydor, constantly refreshing arrangements for touring orchestras.

GLOBAL CULTURAL AMBASSADOR:
Osadebe toured extensively across Africa, Europe, Japan, and the United States, introducing highlife to diaspora communities and world-music festivals. He collaborated with jazz musicians, and his songs later inspired remixes by DJs seeking authentic Afrocentric grooves. Governments and cultural organisations honoured him with chieftaincy titles and lifetime achievement awards.

LEGACY AND CONTINUITY:
After his passing in 2007, his son Osadebe Jr. revived the band, preserving original charts and costumes. Annual memorial concerts in Anambra State celebrate his contribution, while musicologists study his compositions for their lyrical depth and rhythmic sophistication. His work proves that storytelling, not just tempo, drives lasting dance music.

FAST FACTS:
- Born 17 March 1936 in Atani, Anambra State; died 11 May 2007 in Connecticut, USA.
- Titles: Chief (Ogbu-Oja), Commander of the Order of the Niger (CON).
- Genre hallmark: slow, swinging highlife with philosophical proverbs and elongated horn solos.
- Influence: sampled by international artists from Heavyweight Dub Champion to jazz ensembles.