BY MAYOWA SAMUEL
Music fans and celebrities were left in mourning after waking up on Sunday morning to the sad news of the death of Nigerian singer, song writer, actor and comedian, Lanre Fasasi, who goes by the stage name, Sound Sultan.
The 44-year-old passed on after a hard fought but unsuccessful battle with the throat cancer, according to a statement issued by the family.
In the statement, Dr. Kayode Fasasi on behalf of the family said: “It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of our multitalented veteran singer, rapper, songwriter Olanrewaju Fasasi aka Sound Sultan.
“He passed away at the age of 44 following a hard-fought battle with Angioimmunoblastic T-Cell Lymphoma.
“He is survived by his wife, three children and his siblings. We, his family, will appreciate the utmost privacy as we come to grips with this tragic loss.”
Meanwhile his fans and colleagues in the entertainment industry couldn’t hide their shock and sadness at the tragic news and they paid tribute to him.
Afrobeat legend, Femi Kuti on Instagram said: “I am shocked and very sad reading this news of the passing of Sound Sultan (HE IS FAMILY) I pray our Creator to give his family strength at this time.”
2baba posted: “Rest in glory my brother @soundsultan. You will live forever in our hearts. Allah gives…”
Manager of 2Face, Efe Omorogbe said, “Rest in glory my brother @soundsultan. You’ll live forever in our hearts. Allah gives.”
Faze said, “Too good to be gone. Worse Sunday ever. RIP my brother and friend.”
Jaywon had touching words for him. He said: “This right here hurts different! You were the first person to support me as an artist, gave me your platform for free at a point when I was given up and homeless in Festac Lagos boss @soundsultan, no this hurts really different.
“It was still you and your elder brother I ran to before I sign my record contract with Kennis music and you told me I need it now but you are not sure I will later. Egbon mi this is sad, you do not drink or smoke. Till today I always feel funny drinking in front of you baba mi, ah, I’m scared and shaking right now.”
Comedian Mr Macaroni said, “This is so painful. Rest In Peace Legend!! May God grant his family, friends and fans worldwide the fortitude to bear this tragic loss.”
Darey Art Alade posted: “Why do the best have to go so soon? This one hits super close and different but Lanre, your positive spirit is contagious so we no go too cry! Many testimonies will follow for all to see that truly, you lived an exemplary life right till the end. Always had love for everyone and that’s on periodt.”
“We spoke about so so many things some days ago so we must ensure those things are done, come what may. Our hearts go out to sis @faridafasasi and your amazing kids. Peace and comfort we pray. Death is not the opposite of life but a part of it’ – Haruki Murakami. Please greet all our faithful departed when you sing for them on the other side…guitar in hand like the Naija Ninja that you are brother. Sun Re O!”
Singer Nikki Laoye wrote on his Instagram section, saying: “My brother, gosh, pls say something. Hope this isn’t true. We still chatted recently.”
Duncan Daniels said: “We just lost a real one. One of the most humble, kindest veteran of our industry. I remember opening for @soundsultan at a show way back in 2005 and the advise he gave me that day to never give up on my dreams even if it felt like nobody was listening then.
“Haven’t spoken in years but always loved and respected everything about him. May the Lord grant his family the strength to bear this heavy loss. Rest In Peace Sultan of sound! # ripsoundsultan #ripsultan.”
Blogger Japhet sent his love and prayers to the family, saying: “Such a sad thing to wake up to, the passing of Sound Sultan. He was a class act through and through. May his soul rest in peace. Love and prayers to everyone he left behind. Terrible news.”
Top record label executive, Ubi Franklin said: “What is going on please? Sound sultan? How?” he asked.
Nigerian lawmaker, Oloye Akin Alabi also expressed sadness at the news saying: “The news of the death of Sound Sultan shocked my whole being. Great all-round guy. Too early to leave this earth. A very bad day.” God why!!! I don’t even know what I’m writing again RIP BIG Brother SOUND SULTAN.”
Sound Sultan rose to fame in the music industry following the release of his hit single “Jagbajantis” in 2000. His brother Baba Dee who studied Theatre Arts and also a Nigerian music legend, he had once said was his early life influence in music.
