Sikiru Adepoju is a celebrated Nigerian percussionist known for his mastery of the talking drum and his contributions to traditional African and world music. He is often referred to as “the Mozart of the talking drum” by American percussionist Mickey Hart.
Profile Summary
| Full Name | Sikiru Adepoju |
| Date of Birth | November 10, 1950 |
| Place of Birth | Eruwa, Western Nigeria |
| Nationality | Nigerian |
| State of Origin | Oyo State |
| Marital status | Married |
| Occupations | Percussionist, Musician, Recording Artist |
Early Life and Education
Born on November 10, 1950, in Eruwa, Western Nigeria, Sikiru Adepoju comes from a lineage of traditional Yoruba drummers known as “Ayan”.
He began learning the talking drum at the age of six under his father, Chief Ayanleke Adepoju. Despite his early involvement in drumming, Sikiru initially resisted pursuing it as a career due to the challenges faced by his family members.
Career
Sikiru’s professional career took off when he toured and recorded with Chief Ebenezer Obey’s Inter-Reformers Band in Nigeria.
In 1985, he moved to the United States and joined Babatunde Olatunji’s Drums of Passion, where he met Mickey Hart.
He became a key member of Hart’s projects, including the Grammy-winning Planet Drum and Global Drum Project. Sikiru has also collaborated with artists like Stevie Wonder and Carlos Santana.
Personal Life
Sikiru Adepoju currently resides in the San Francisco Bay Area. His personal life reflects his deep connection to his cultural heritage and his role as a master drummer. Despite his international success, he remains committed to promoting African rhythms globally.
In his family life, Sikiru is married and has children who are also involved in music, reflecting the continuation of his family’s musical legacy.
Discography
- Planet Drum (1991) with Mickey Hart
- Global Drum Project (2009) with Mickey Hart, Giovanni Hidalgo, and Zakir Hussain
- Ijinle Ilu with Afrika Heartbeat
Awards and Nominations
- 1991 Grammy Award: Best Contemporary World Music Album for Planet Drum.
- 2009 Grammy Award: Best Contemporary World Music Album for Global Drum Project.
Sikiru Adepoju is a pioneering figure in bringing African rhythms to global audiences, and his collaborations have earned him international recognition and acclaim.
