The entertainment industry is one that comfortably accommodates both parents and their children without one taking the shine off the other. Interestingly, many of the children of popular entertainers have also made a name for themselves in the industry, even if some think their parents’ influence gave them an edge. MOBOLA SADIQ takes a look at some of the successful children of famous entertainers
Darey Art Alade
Darey Art Alade is regarded as one of the big names and unforgettable faces in showbiz. The media personality, voice-over artiste and performing/recording artiste was born in Lagos to legendary Nigerian Jazz pioneer Art Alade and Olapeju Alade. Dare honed his skills at an early age and his distinct voice has stood him out over the years.
With his company, Livespot Entertainment, he also organises events, such as the recent Livespot X Festival, where international artiste, Cardi B performed.
Paul Paul Dairo
Even though Paul Paul Dairo is not very active in the music industry like he used to be, music lovers would not forget his cover of his father’s evergreen song, ‘Mo Sorire’. For those who don’t know, the singer who has released hit songs such as, ‘You and Me’, ‘Forever’, and ‘Angel of my Life’, is the son of late legendary juju singer, I.K Dairo.
Paul Play is also a talent acquisition consultant, former reality show judge and producer.
Big Sheff
When it comes to famous parents, Sheriff Ilori, has it in double doses. Popularly known as Big Sheff, he is the son of Queen Salawa Abeni and Kolawole Ayinla, popularly referred to as Alhaji Kollignton Ayinla. The chubby artiste was given the name ‘Young Ross’ by American rapper, Rick Ross, when he featured in the former’s video for the song, ‘Hold Me Back’ that was shot in Nigeria. One of Big Sheff’s memorable moments was when he shot a music video with his mother.
Femi and Seun Kuti
Born by a father who is regarded as the pioneer of Afrobeat, Femi and Seun Kuti are not only filling their father’s shoes, they have also established names for themselves in the music hall of fame.
The two brothers are masters of the game and have both been nominated for the prestigious Grammy Awards. The New Afrika Shrine owned by the Kutis is a home of fun and entertainment for music lovers from all over the world.
Mayorkun
Mayorkun is an award-winning singer who was discovered on Twitter by Davido when he posted a cover of one of Davido’s songs, ‘The Money’ featuring Olamide. His mother is an ace Nollywood actress, Toyin Adewale, and his father, Sunday, an artiste and movie producer.
Mayorkun’s first album, ‘The Mayor of Lagos’ appeared on the Billboard World Albums chart, peaking at number 15.
Mide Funmi-Martins
Mide Funmi-Martins is regarded as one of the most popular actresses in the Yoruba part of the movie industry.
She is the daughter of late actress, Funmi Martins ,who passed on in 2002. The actress who is also regarded as one of the most stylish actresses, is married to her late mother’s manager, Afeez Owo, a popular actor and producer.
Femi, Tijani, Tope Adebayo
Femi, Tijani and Tope Adebayo are the sons of one of the most respected Yoruba actors, Adebayo Salami, better known as Oga Bello.
The Adebayos have proven that their father’s acting DNA is dominant in them, thanks to the numerous films they have featured in. The Kwara State indigenes have no doubt become a household name in the entertainment industry.
Barry Jhay
Singer, Oluwakayode Balogun, popularly known as Barry Jhay, is the son of late fuji icon, Sikiru Ayinde Barrister.
His song, ‘Aiye’, released in October 2018, created some buzz and many started paying attention to him, particularly because of his rich music background.
Balogun once stated that when he was much younger, his father told him that he would become a musician.
Sola and Bidemi Kosoko
The two pretty actresses are the daughters of Jide Kosoko, another respected acting legend.
The Kosoko sisters are both married and have often shown their closeness on their respective Instagram pages.
Clarence Peters
Clarence Peters is one music video director, filmmaker and cinematographer who have made indelible marks in the entertainment industry.
He is the son of Afrofuji maestro, Sir Shina Peters, and renowned actress, Clarion Chukwura.
Peters’ works have not only spoken for him but have made him highly sought after by a-list singers who want his magical touch on their music videos.
He is the founder and CEO of Capital Dream Pictures and Capital Hill Records.
Tolu Obey
Tolu Obey is a son of renowned jùjú musician, Ebenezer Obey-Fabiyi, better known as Chief Commander.
Tolu, who is a juju singer like his father, has continued to build a career for himself and it’s safe to say he has many fans who enjoy his musical offerings.
Musiliu Ishola
Musiliu Haruna Ishola is the offspring of famous apala singer, Haruna Ishola, M.O.N.
To underscore the fact that the singer sees himself as a recantation of his father, the bio on his Instagram page reads, ‘Like father like son…great band’.
Over the years Musiliu has put out a number of hits that resonated with fans.
