But Who (Really) Is Keziah Jones?

A committed musician who has never shied away from embracing pop, Keziah Jones stays true to his Nigerian roots while roaming the world freely. He’s the inventor of a major genre – blufunk – yet constantly ready to reinvent himself. A multidisciplinary artist without limits, timeless in his appeal… We’ll never finish discovering the reserved and inspiring Olufemi Sanyaolu, a.k.a. Mister Jones.

Music has always been part of Keziah Jones’ life. He recalls his childhood in Lagos, Nigeria, where the soundtrack ranged from the traditional choirs his father listened to, to his sisters’ records – Michael Jackson, Teddy Pendergrass, Sly Stone… Sundays were the most joyful, especially for the kids who, like him, chose not to accompany their devout Christian mother to church. The stereo was cranked up, a mixed playlist blared through the house, and there was even a small glass of liquor to go around. For young Keziah, music already embodied joy, sharing, and freedom.

But this passion wasn’t confined to the walls of his home. The 1970s, when young Olufemi grew up, were filled with the rhythms broadcasted on radio and television, a consequence of Nigeria’s 1960 independence. This era culminated in a local cultural explosion, which would intensify even further in response to the economic crisis of the 80s, with highlights like the iconic FESTAC of 1977. This international festival, dedicated to promoting all African art forms, left an indelible mark on Keziah and his generation, not just for its radiance but also due to the protest musician Fela Kuti. Though Kuti boycotted the event, he made waves by organizing free concerts nearby that garnered equal, if not more, attention.