There is something special about reimagining sounds from home and sharing them in a new space: blistering solos and smooth rhythms. That is exactly what one of Nigeria’s music exports, Desmond Olaitan Ogunjimi, known professionally as Laitan Desmond, did when he took the vibrant sound and cultural spirit of Nigeria to the Utopia Creative Hub in Sheffield recently.
A Night of Fusion and Culture
The open mic show featured a dazzling fusion of premium music, poetry, and spoken word. This event is a recurring community arts programme designed to showcase creative talent across Sheffield. It takes place regularly and welcomes both performers and audience members. Open to all creative disciplines—singers, musicians, poets, spoken-word artists, comedians, dancers, DJs, storytellers, and other performers—the event aims to provide a supportive platform for emerging and experienced artists, with particular encouragement for creatives from underrepresented backgrounds.
Laitan Desmond stole the spotlight with his well-curated, high-energy solo, delivering an unforgettable night of music, entertainment, and immersive experiences with saxophone hooks and sultry sax melodies. He poured out what could be described as “a highlife mashup—blending familiar melodies with fresh improvisations.” Donning an aso oke trouser and fila on a white shirt, a popular fashion trend in Nigeria, he curated a medley of melodious saxophone highlife, blended with rich, groovy jazzy tones.
Highlife Medley and Timeless Classics
The songs came together nicely. The horn-driven rhythms of Victor Olaiya and Rex Cardinal Jim Lawson, along with the smooth rhythms of Ebenezer Obey and Christy Essien-Igbokwe, were vibrant and dance-inducing. The songs were insightful and pleasing to the ears. The audience had a sweet taste of “Gbebe Mi Oluwa,” a highly philosophical song by Obey that calls on God for aid. The song provided a relaxed yet rhythmic take. He also performed timeless songs such as “Seun Rere” by Essien-Igbokwe, “Love mu Adaure” by Rex Cardinal Jim Lawson, and “Yabomisa” by the ‘evil genius’ Olaiya.
Laitan Desmond, whose street-inspired sound and motivational themes—catchy hooks and an infectious work ethic—have earned him growing popularity among the Nigerian diaspora, gave continuous non-stop mixes that captured the true essence of West African music. It was a night of non-stop highlife medley, irresistible groove, fused rhythms, and jazz melodies. The event combined elegance with excitement as guests enjoyed the immersive performances designed to celebrate African identity, culture, and global influence.
About the Artist
Desmond is an accomplished Nigerian saxophonist with over 15 years of experience in the performing arts. A versatile artist, he has honed his craft through collaborations with renowned bands, artistic groups, and theatrical productions across Nigeria and beyond. With a career defined by excellence and a commitment to artistic innovation, Desmond continues to inspire through his dedication to the saxophone and his contributions to the global arts community.
With about two decades of experience in the industry, his earliest musical influences are the classic highlife legends and Nigerian indigenous musicians from the Juju, Fuji, Apala, and Agidigbo genres. He has also been influenced by the music of Bobby Benson, Victor Olaiya, Orlando Julius Ekemode, Adewale Ayuba, Omawumi, MIC Jazz Band, Eagle Band, Sunny Ade, Sikiru Ayinde Barrister, Sunny Okosun, and Christy Essien-Igbokwe.
A graduate of music from the University of Lagos, Desmond combines formal training with innate musicality. His performances, known for their emotive depth and technical mastery, have graced stages in diverse cultural settings, showcasing his ability to connect with audiences across genres and geographies.
