#Flashback: Remembering Idoma-born Ray Stephen Oche: King of African Rhythms and Jazz who reigned in the 1950s

Ray Stephen Oche is a renowned Nigerian musician, singer, drummer, flutist, and trumpeter, celebrated for his distinctive blend of African rhythms and jazz. Born on June 28, 1936, in Edikwu Village, Oturkpo, the then Benue Plateau State, Nigeria, Oche hails from a family with a rich musical heritage.

His ancestors were prominent figures in local music festivals, particularly in the 1930s, setting the stage for his own musical journey.

From a young age, Oche exhibited extraordinary musical talent. By the age of eight, he was already an accomplished flute player in his village school band. His early involvement in local bands saw him become a skilled Obinde singer, and he began traveling extensively across Northern Nigeria, entertaining Idoma communities.

In 1953, Oche moved to Lagos, where he quickly integrated into the city’s vibrant music scene, performing with notable bands such as Stephen Amechi’s and Bobby Benson’s orchestras.

Soon after, he formed his own band, Ray Stephen Oche & His Orchestra, and toured major Nigerian cities like Kano, Kaduna, Enugu, and Port Harcourt. His musical talents also took him abroad, with a notable stay in Accra, Ghana, where he studied at the Ghana Military School of Music and became acquainted with the famous drummer Guy Warren, who imparted to him the secrets of authentic African rhythms.

Oche’s musical career continued to flourish as he expanded his travels to Sierra Leone, Gambia, Senegal, and later to Paris in 1965. His European tours took him across Switzerland, Spain, Italy, and France, performing with various jazz musicians.

In 1970, Oche performed at the “Festival de Montparnasse” before joining Alan Silva & His Celestial Communications Orchestra for several shows and festivals. He also collaborated with the Noah Howard Quartet, playing at prestigious venues like Copenhagen Radio and Montparnasse Jazz Club.

Throughout his career, Oche sought to showcase the richness and diversity of African music. He formed his band, Ray Stephen Oche & His Matumbo, with musicians from Congo, Togo, Guinea, Gambia, and other regions, including Brazil and the French West Indies.

The name “Matumbo,” meaning “gifted with various talents” in Angolese, reflected the diverse influences that shaped the band’s music, which blended African melodies, rhythms, and jazz.

Oche’s music is deeply rooted in African tradition, particularly the Idoma culture, and often incorporates the Idoma language into his songs.

His compositions are filled with rich, groovy Afro-jazz, percussions, and vibrant African singing, with tracks like Alaglanu-Alaglano and Okwukwu-Kiwongo reflecting the deep cultural connection to his roots.

A calm and humble individual, Oche’s personal beliefs are shaped by his spiritual values. His birth name, Owoicho Oche, meaning “God is the King,” resonates deeply with his worldview.

Despite his fame in jazz circles and at SACEM (Society of Authors, Composers, and Publishers of Music), Oche remains a figure of integrity, ever dedicated to his craft and the preservation of African musical traditions.

Today, Ray Stephen Oche’s music continues to inspire, and his legacy as a pioneer of Afro-jazz is celebrated by music lovers worldwide.