William Onyeabor

The Profile

William Onyeabor was a Nigerian singer, songwriter, producer, and pioneering figure of synth-driven funk. He self-released a string of albums between the late 1970s and mid-1980s, characterized by hypnotic grooves, electronic keyboards, and drum machines. His music reached a global audience with Luaka Bop’s 2013 compilation “World Psychedelic Classics 5: Who Is William Onyeabor?”.

Nigerian synth-funk pioneer active in the late 1970s–mid-1980s; renowned for long, danceable electronic grooves and prominent use of synthesizers. Reintroduced internationally by Luaka Bop’s 2013 compilation.

A playful, glowing review celebrates Luaka Bop’s William Onyeabor compilation and his late-’70s to mid-’80s run of synth-driven Nigerian funk. Emphasis on rhythm, long hypnotic tracks, and irresistible grooves. The artist remains enigmatic; the music does all the talking.