Lovers of General Kollington Ayinla's music should learn from the enduring admiration displayed by fans of Alhaji Sikiru Ayinde Barrister. Despite Barrister's passing, his admirers have kept his legacy alive through active celebrations of his music and contributions to the Fuji genre.
Social media platforms are awash with groups dedicated to preserving Barrister's artistry, and offline efforts also thrive, ranging from music events to thoughtful discussions of his impact. These devoted fans have demonstrated a unique dedication to ensuring that Barrister’s influence remains vibrant across generations, proving that the value of an artist transcends their lifetime.
In contrast, General Kollington Ayinla's living legacy presents a golden opportunity for his supporters to cherish his music and contributions while he is still alive. It is a rare gift to have access to an artist who has shaped a genre and still embodies the spirit that made their work timeless.
Kollington Ayinla's musical genius, marked by his innovative blend of Fuji and Yoruba rhythms, deserves widespread recognition and celebration. Lovers of his music have the privilege of amplifying his legacy in real-time, through gatherings, tributes, and vocal acknowledgment of his unparalleled talent just like Barry Fans worldwide do all year round both at home and abroad..
Rather than fostering division by antagonizing groups that celebrate Ayinde Barrister, Kollington Ayinla's followers can set a take a cue from Barry's numerous groups that celebrate his legacies by forming their own initiatives to honor their chosen artist.
Celebrating Ayinla while he is alive fosters gratitude, strengthens community bonds, and enriches the Fuji genre by affirming one of its pioneers' worth. The spotlight should shine brightly on Ayinla's contributions now, not just in retrospect.
Let those who love Kollington Ayinla's music turn admiration into action—building platforms to uphold his legacy and affirming that true respect for artistry blossoms while the artist can still witness the fruits of their labour.
Veteran Journalist-cum-Lawyer, Olufemi Iyanda writes from United Kingdom
