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I CHERISH MEMORY OF MY FATHER, CELESTINE UKWU’S DAUGHTER
Barrister Cynthia Chikwado Ukwu, the only child of highlife music legend Celestine Ukwu, shares her experiences and plans regarding her father’s legacy in an interview with Fred Iwenjora.
Born on December 27, 1977, Cynthia came to understand her identity as the daughter of Celestine Ukwu around the age of 11.
She began hearing stories about her father’s renowned contributions to highlife music, often from various people, including family members and her father’s friends like Uncle Buzuzu Mogbo.
Despite never having met her father, these stories and resemblances to him left a lasting impression on her.
While she was initially very interested in music as she grew up, Cynthia eventually found other passions in life, although she still cherishes her father’s music deeply.
She often sings her father’s songs, with “Ije Enu” being a favorite that resonates with her due to its philosophical depth.
Cynthia expresses her fascination with her father’s wisdom, passion for music, and the moral values embedded in his songs.
She feels his presence whenever his music plays and recognizes similarities in their character traits. Over time, her love and pride for her father have deepened as she matures and understands more about his legacy.
Regarding the benefits of being Celestine Ukwu’s daughter, Cynthia considers it all as gain. His name has opened doors for her and endeared her to many.
She proudly displays his photos as her phone screensaver and profile pictures, with his music as her ringtone, feeling a profound connection to him through these.
Speaking about her mother, Mrs. Josephine Uzoyibo Ukwu, Cynthia describes her as managing her life well.
After her father’s death, her mother remarried but later returned to Cynthia when that marriage ended.
Cynthia acknowledges the strength of her mother, who often shares memories of Celestine Ukwu’s caring and family-oriented nature.
To immortalize her father’s name, Cynthia founded the Celestine Ukwu Memorial Foundation after graduating from ESUT Faculty of Law.
The foundation aims to promote everything related to Celestine Ukwu and celebrate his contributions to music. They plan to host the Celestine Ukwu Memorial Symposium 2024 on May 7, the 47th anniversary of his death.
The symposium will feature an academic paper on Celestine Ukwu’s music and philosophy, delivered by a music scholar. Live music performances by his surviving musical associates are also planned.
Cynthia hopes to secure the support or sponsorship of Governor Peter Mba of Enugu State for the event, as it would be an honor to have him host the occasion.The foundation is seeking support to make the event a memorable celebration of Celestine Ukwu’s enduring legacy.
