UK-based Nigerian saxophonist Benjamin Mayowa AJAGBE, popularly known as Benjamin Mayowa Sax, made a memorable debut performance in London at the second edition of the Onídìrí Festival. The festival, organized by Roots and Radiance Network CIC, was held at the Ripple Centre in Barking, London, in August 2026. It brought together Africans in the diaspora to celebrate African heritage, beauty, innovation, and the creative economy.
Benjamin Mayowa Sax's performance was a fusion of Afrobeats and Fuji-inspired instrumentation, which impressed the audience. He played alongside other artists, showcasing storytelling, African hair artistry, and visual art. His saxophone tone was distinctive, with phrasing reminiscent of Fuji music's rhythmic drive and improvisation on an Afrobeat foundation, lending the performance a distinctly Nigerian flavor.
What made Benjamin's performance remarkable was his command over the arrangement, which did not overpower other elements. He took melodic lines in and out of the singers and introduced the woodwind voice with confident statements when needed. Sustained notes gave contrast, while shorter responses established a call-and-response relationship with the vocals.
Benjamin's expressive performance blended contemporary Afrobeats with Fuji, a popular Nigerian genre. He dazzled the audience with his saxophone command, giving familiar sounds a fresh voice without discarding their character. His tone was focused, projecting, and expressive, essential traits for a saxophone playing the lead role in a live cultural setting.
Benjamin added more life to his performance by dancing with the other artists, wearing Africa-themed attire that complemented the occasion. His interactions with the ensemble reflected the festival's celebration of African identity and blend of tradition and modern creativity. As a unique saxophonist, Benjamin often played the role of a singer, articulating melodic ideas and creating expressive tension.
The cultural dialogue was strengthened by the visual presentation, with Benjamin dancing to songs and music with the other artists in African-themed costumes. His blending of Nigerian music traditions was fitting for the Onídìrí Festival and Roots, Rhythm, and Revolution exhibition, designed around the confluence of tradition and contemporary creativity.
Benjamin's convincing and expressive performance makes it an easily digestible act, with enough tonal clarity, resonance, and melodic creativity to keep the audience engaged. Overall, his performance can be rated seven on a scale of ten. The Nigerian-born, UK-based saxophonist has performed in several UK cities and continues to showcase his Afro-jazz, Highlife, and Afrobeats aesthetic.
Key points
- Benjamin Mayowa Sax's debut performance at the Onídìrí Festival showcased his unique blend of Afrobeats and Fuji-inspired instrumentation.
- The festival celebrated African heritage, beauty, innovation, and the creative economy, bringing together Africans in the diaspora.
- Benjamin's performance demonstrated his command over the saxophone and his ability to blend Nigerian music traditions with contemporary creativity.
