Music maestro Pal Akalonu gets grand farewell

The music community in Owerri, Imo State, is preparing for a grand farewell to renowned music icon Pal Akalonu, who passed away on August 19. Known as Ndaa Pal, Akalonu was a multi-talented musician, songwriter, producer, promoter, director, and cultural custodian who played a pivotal role in shaping the highlife music scene in Eastern Nigeria.

His funeral will be marked by a series of events from August 19-23, including a Night of Tributes and Musicals at Rimrock Hotel, a Service of Songs at Sacred Heart Catholic Parish, and a Thanksgiving Mass. Akalonu's contributions extended beyond music, as he was instrumental in rebuilding the region's cultural identity after the Nigerian Civil War.

His work with the Sweet Breeze Band, a legendary group, symbolized the era when music offered healing and social connection to a nation recovering from trauma. As Owerri prepares for this farewell, the Night of Tributes and Musicals is expected to honor Akalonu's enduring legacy and the musicians and admirers he inspired.