The Horniman has worked with partners, creatives and young people in London and Nigeria to design a new display celebrating the Benin Kingdom, opening this winter. The display brings the legacy of the Benin Kingdom to life through remarkable artefacts.
These pieces, intricately crafted and rich in history, tell the story of a powerful kingdom. But history in Benin City is not only preserved in artefacts; it is also alive in music, where rhythms and melodies embody the resilience and creativity of the Edo people across generations.
To complement the exhibition, we’ve curated a special playlist that pairs these visual artefacts with the sounds of Benin City. This playlist serves as a soundtrack to the exhibition, guiding visitors through the music that has connected Edo communities across time, from the iconic sounds of past legends to the fresh voices of today.
Sir Victor Uwaifo
Sir Victor Uwaifo, a legendary artist whose influence stretches back to the 1960s, stands out as a musical pioneer in Benin City. His song ‘Joromi,’ which is featured in the playlist, became a national and international hit. It embodies the spirit of traditional Edo storytelling fused with innovative guitar techniques.
Uwaifo’s work represents the musical legacy of the Benin City Kingdom, blending folklore, artistry, and a sense of place that has inspired generations. His sound not only preserved Edo culture but introduced it to new audiences, bridging the gap between the ancient and the contemporary.
Rema
Complementing Uwaifo’s classic sounds is Rema, one of Benin City’s brightest modern stars. Earlier this year, Rema returned to his ancestral roots to perform in a special concert in Benin City, paying homage to the land and heritage that shaped him. Songs like ‘Calm Down’ and ‘AZAMAN,’ also featured on the playlist, reflect his unique ability to blend traditional Edo influences with modern Afrobeats, capturing the hearts of a global audience.
Through his music, Rema carries the spirit of the Benin City Kingdom forward, honouring his roots while redefining them for a new era.
Johnny Drille and Osayomore Joseph
Also included in the playlist are Johnny Drille and Osayomore Joseph, each contributing to the diverse musical landscape of Benin City. Johnny Drille’s soulful melodies in ‘How Are You (My Friend)’ echo themes of connection and community, while Osayomore Joseph’s ‘Osanerha’ brings forth the traditional rhythms that continue to resonate in Edo culture.
The Out of Context exhibition invites visitors to experience not only the visual artefacts of Benin City’s history but also its lasting legacy in sound.
By pairing these pieces with music from past legends and contemporary voices, we offer a fuller immersion into the heart of Benin City’s heritage—a celebration of a kingdom whose spirit lives on in every note, beat, and melody.
Hey Jukebox
Listen to a playlist of the songs discussed in this blog on Spotify, or in the Museum on Tuesday afternoons from 2.30pm.
Lead image: From the series ‘A Spirited Journey’ by Tamibé Bourdanné