Music maestro Pal Akalonu gets grand farewell

Owerri, Imo State will host a four-day tribute to the late music icon Pal Akalonu, known as Ndaa Pal, from August 19-23. The cultural giant, who was a songwriter, producer, promoter, director, mentor and cultural custodian, made significant contributions to the development of highlife music in Eastern Nigeria. His funeral program includes a Night of Tributes and Musicals at Rimrock Hotel, Owerri, a Service of Songs at Sacred Heart Catholic Parish, Ubah Mbaoma, Emii, Owerri North, and a Thanksgiving Mass at the church.

The events will feature live performances by musicians who grew up listening to music nurtured by Akalonu, including works from groups like Oriental Brothers, Sweet Breeze, and Peacocks. Akalonu's work with the Sweet Breeze Band, which became a major musical institution in the East, played a crucial role in rebuilding the region's cultural confidence following the Nigerian Civil War.

He was a mentor to many young musicians and an accessible community figure, leaving a lasting impact on the region's musical identity and cultural heritage.