Prince Nico Mbarga (a.k.a Simple man) was a Cameroonian-Nigerian highlife singer, record producer, songwriter and performer. He was born on January 1, 1950, in Abakaliki, Nigeria. His unique heritage, being born to a Nigerian mother and a Cameroonian father, greatly influenced his musical style, which was rooted in highlife music.

Prince Nico Mbarga

Education and Early Interests

Although there is limited information regarding Mbarga's formal education, we do know that he developed a passion for music early in his life. He started playing in school bands and showcased his talent on several instruments such as the xylophone, conga, drums, bass guitar, and electric guitar.

Musical Career

Formation of Rocafil Jazz

In 1970, Mbarga took his first steps into the world of professional music by becoming a member of the Melody Orchestra, a band that performed at hotels. Afterward, he formed his own group called Rocafil Jazz, and they became quite popular in the local area. They regularly played at the Plaza Hotel in Onitsha, which is located in eastern Nigeria.

"Sweet Mother" And Its Impact

In 1976, Prince Nico Mbarga, along with his band Rocafil Jazz, experienced a significant breakthrough in the music industry when they released their popular song "Sweet Mother". This song, sung in Pidgin, became a massive hit, selling over 13 million copies and establishing itself as one of the best-selling songs ever by an African artist. Interestingly, this success came at a time when Rocafil Jazz had parted ways with EMI, their previous record label, and signed with Rogers All Stars, a Nigerian recording company located in Onitsha.

Musical Journey 

After the huge success of "Sweet Mother," Prince Nico Mbarga faced difficulties in achieving similar levels of success with his later works. However, he didn't let that deter him from his musical pursuits. He continued to perform with Rocafil Jazz and collaborated with other bands such as the Ivory Coasters. Additionally, he explored the business side of the music industry by establishing his own record label, which was distributed by Polydor.

Personal Life And Family

Prince Nico Mbarga was happily married to Mrs. Pauline E. Mbarga, and their union was blessed with a beautiful array of children. Alongside their loving partnership, they raised their ten remarkable children: Nico, Descrow, Estelle, Slimphilz, Pauline, Joan, Lillian, Lucy, Lionel, Nicoline and their departed daughter, is a testament to the enduring love and cherished memories they shared.

Business Ventures 

In the later years of his life, the Sweet Mother crooner decided to focus on business rather than music. He became an entrepreneur and owned a four-star hotel called Sweet Mother Hotel. This hotel is located in Ikom, which is in Cross River State, Nigeria. Prince Nico Mbarga took charge of managing the hotel and overseeing its operations.

Death

Prince Nico Mbarga's life ended suddenly on June 23, 1997, due to a tragic motorcycle accident in Calabar. He was on his way to purchase spare parts for his car when the accident occurred.

Legacy

The memory of Prince Nico Mbarga is kept alive, especially due to his evergreen song, "Sweet Mother". The song has been hailed as "Africa's Anthem" and is deeply loved by many. The song was even voted as Africa's favourite by BBC readers and listeners.

Albums

While working with Rogers All Stars from 1975 to 1981, Mbarga and Rocafil Jazz released nine albums. These albums had a significant impact on the genre of highlife music.

Sweet Mother 

Sweet family 

Christiana

Aki special 

Happy Birthday 

I dey wonder

Family movement 

Good father 

Onye ori obi

Stella

Cool money

Tobe jehovah. 

Remember 

Hit Songs

Prince Nico Mbarga is known for many songs, but "Sweet Mother" is by far his most famous and loved song. This song has secured his place in the history of African music.

Awards and Recognition

Specific details about the awards and recognitions of Prince Nico Mbarga are not easily found. However, his work in African music, especially highlife music, is well-known and respected. His song, "Sweet Mother", has received many praises and was even voted as Africa's favourite song by BBC readers and listeners.