The legendary song “SENSIMILIA” was launched by the dynamic pair “Mad Melon” (Oghenemaro Emeofa) and “Mountain Black” (Jimoh Olotu) in 2003, precisely 21 years ago. But the song that launched them to fame, “I am a Danfo Driver, Suo,” is what made them most famous.
Both Mad Melon and Mountain Black were greatly impacted by the local Galala music genre, which developed from the streets and expressed the difficulties and hopes of the community, while growing up in the colorful but difficult slums of Ajegunle, Lagos. They had to juggle driving danfos, or commercial buses, to make ends meet during their early years, but music was always their love. Their lives would not shift drastically until Cornerstone Music realized how talented they were.
Their 2003 single “I Am a Danfo Driver, Suo” struck a chord with Nigerians all throughout the nation and quickly became a classic. The song became an anthem due to its distinctive sound, catchy beat, and streetwise lyrics—especially in Lagos, where danfo buses are an integral part of everyday life. Their popularity from the song helped promote the Ajegunle sound both domestically and abroad in addition to bringing them notoriety. Their selection of “I Am a Danfo Driver, Suo” and Tuface Idibia’s “African Queen” for the soundtrack of the Hollywood film *Phat Girlz* was one of their most noteworthy accomplishments.
With this acknowledgment, Mad Melon and Mountain Black were the first Nigerian musicians to have their songs included in a Hollywood production, marking a significant turning point for Nigerian music internationally. Their rise from the streets of Ajegunle to global acclaim is proof of the strength of perseverance, originality, and sincerity in music. They left a lasting impression on Nigeria’s musical history by bringing the challenges and victories of the country’s streets to the world.
Five years ago, Mad Melon went away.
