Alhaji Sule Alao Malaika
- Name: Alhaji Sule Alao Malaika
- Birthdate: February 15, 1973
- Birthplace: Lagos, Nigeria
- Occupation: Fuji musician
Born on February 15, 1973, in Lagos, Nigeria, Sulaimon Alao Adekunle, widely known as KS1 Malaika, spent his formative years in various Lagos neighbourhoods, including Mushin, Oshodi, Bariga, and Lagos Island. He attended Oyewole Primary School and Yewa High School in Agege. His musical journey commenced in a Quranic school in Agege, where he performed 'Were' music (Islamic wake-up songs during Ramadan), laying the foundation for his future in Fuji music.
Musical career
At just 10 years old, Malaika formed his first Fuji band, the Tekoye Fuji Organisation, in 1983. His international breakthrough came in 1997 when he toured 15 U.S. states, rebranding his group as the Malaika Fuji Organisation. Over the years, he has performed in over 30 countries, including Germany, the UK, China, and South Africa, promoting Fuji music globally.
Malaika's discography boasts numerous albums, such as 'Mr Wonder' (1994), 'Masterpiece' (1995), 'Legend' (1996), 'American Dream' (1998), 'Dedication' and 'Appreciation' (2007), 'Elevator' and 'Motivator' (2009), 'Proper Music' (2011), 'Superstar' (2014), and 'Original' and 'Golden Jubilee' (2017). His music is characterised by a fusion of traditional Yoruba rhythms with contemporary sounds, utilising instruments like the Bata, Gangan, Agogo, saxophone, and Hawaiian guitar.
Awards and recognition
- Malaika's contributions to Fuji music have earned him several accolades, including:
- Best Fuji Artiste of the Year at the Nigeria Achievers Awards (2015)
- Best Collaboration Album of the Year at the Islamic Music and Associated Nominees Awards (2016)
- Best Fuji Artiste of the Year at the Yoruba Music and Films Awards (2015)
Personal life
A devout Muslim, Malaika performed the Hajj pilgrimage in 1999 and again in 2005. He is married to Olubukonla Saliu Adekunle, daughter of the 41st Olubadan of Ibadan land, Saliu Adetunji. In 2021, he gifted his mother a house, and in 2023, he celebrated his 50th birthday by unveiling a newly completed mansion, expressing gratitude to Allah for his life's journey.
