KWAM 1's drummer gets Yoruba title in Kano

The growing recognition of traditional drumming as a professional art has received a boost following the conferment of the title Mayedun of Yorubaland on Ayanlowo Ayankunle, lead drummer of Fuji star King Wasiu Ayinde Marshal, popularly known as KWAM 1.

The honour was bestowed on Ayankunle by the Kano State branch of the General Professional Drummers of Nigeria (GPDON) on Wednesday in recognition of his contribution to traditional music and his performances with KWAM 1's band.

The association said the recognition was intended to celebrate his drumming skills and encourage other practitioners to pursue excellence in the profession.

Speaking at the presentation ceremony in Kano, the association's Governor, Adura Gbemi, said Ayankunle had helped project a positive image of professional drummers through his work with the Fuji star.

"We honour our brother, Ayankunle Ayanlowo, with this award and the title Mayedun of Yorubaland because of his dexterity in the art of traditional drumming," he said.

Gbemi added that the recognition would encourage drummers across Nigeria and Africa by showing that their dedication and professional skills could earn them respect and recognition.

Members of the association at the ceremony included its Deputy Governor, Toliha Abdul; Secretary, Michael Balogun; and Ayan Adeyemi Adebiyi.

Others were Ayan Michael Apala, Ayan Dauda Daure, Ayan Sarafa, Brother Paul, Kayode Sticks and Ayan Bola.

In his response, Ayankunle thanked the association for recognising his contribution to the entertainment industry.

He credited his achievements to God, his parents, who trained him in traditional drumming, and KWAM 1 for giving him the opportunity to develop and showcase his talent.

"I give all thanks to God Almighty, my parents who tutored me in this art of traditional drumming and, more specifically, my boss, the Olori Omooba Akile-Ijebu, King Wasiu Ayinde Marshal. I will always have cause to appreciate him," he said.