Nigerian singer and songwriter Seyi Shay has shared the profound emotional toll of Sound Sultan’s passing, describing the late artist as her “godfather” and among the most significant influences in her musical career.
Discussing her close bond with the late music legend, Seyi Shay disclosed that Sound Sultan was instrumental in bringing her into the Nigerian music scene and offering her mentorship and protection during her formative years in the industry.
“Sound Sultan’s death hit me hard. It really, really did,” she said.
“He was like my godfather in the music industry. The person who officially introduced me to the Nigerian music scene. He was my protector. You know how everyone in the industry has that one person who co-signs them, looks out for them, defends them? That was Sound Sultan for me.”
The “Right Now” singer revealed that she frequently visited the late artist’s residence on her free weekends, where she experienced tranquility and solace away from work-related demands.
“I used to go to his house on weekends when I had time off work, just turn off my phone, rest, play with his kids, talk to his wife,” she recalled.
“She’s gone from being my best friend to my sister now. She’s the person I talk to about everything. So in many ways, when I see her, I see him.”
Sound Sultan, whose birth name was Olanrewaju Fasasi, died in July 2021 following complications from Angioimmunoblastic T-cell lymphoma.
His passing represented a significant loss to Nigeria’s entertainment sector, as he was widely recognized for his socially conscious music, modest demeanor, and commitment to nurturing emerging artists.
