Alhaji Haruna Ishola

Alhaji Haruna Ishola was a Nigerian musician who popularized the apala genre, a style of Yoruba music that originated from the Muslim worship songs of the Yoruba people. He started his musical career as a drummer in the 1930s and later formed his own band, Haruna Ishola and His Apala Group, in the 1950s. He recorded many albums and songs that became hits in Nigeria and beyond. Some of his famous songs include Soyoyo, Oroki Social Club, Egbe Olowo Fobaje, and Ina Ran. He was also known for his Islamic faith and philanthropy. He died of a heart attack on November 9, 1983, at the age of 64. He was survived by his wife, Aduke, and many children, including Musiliu Haruna Ishola, who also became a successful apala musician. Alhaji Haruna Ishola is widely regarded as one of the greatest and most influential musicians in Nigerian history.