David Byrne has paid tribute to Nigerian synth-funk pioneer William Onyeabor, who died earlier this week aged 70.
Writing on his website, Byrne said: "His surprising (no other African musician was using synthesizers then) recordings, his conscious lyrics and messages and his entrepreneurial ambitions (up until selling them late last year, he had his own vinyl mastering and pressing machines!) were all way ahead of their time. He continues to inspire musicians and fans around the world."
His tribute concludes thusly: "Wherever he’s gone, it’s sure to be a place with a lot of heart and some killer grooves. Rest In Peace."
Byrne’s label, Luaka Bop, was responsible for the release of a etrospective compilation of the late musician’s work in 2013, entitled Who Is William Onyeabor?, and, the following year, he took part in a series of shows presenting the music live alongside the Atomic Bomb! Band.
