The family of legendary Nigerian musician and electronic funk pioneer William Onyeabor has honored his legacy on what would have been his 79th birthday.

In a statement, his sons—Charles, Emeka, and Chika Onyeabor—celebrated their father’s enduring legacy, describing his music and spirit as eternal.

“Our father was more than just a musician; he was a force of nature, a man who saw the future of sound and embraced it long before the world caught on. His music was a message, a movement, and a testament to the limitless possibilities of African creativity,” they said.

Onyeabor, best known for hits such as “Better Change Your Mind”, “Fantastic Man”, and “Atomic Bomb”, was a trailblazer in Nigerian music, fusing Afro-funk with electronic synthesisers in a style that set him apart.

“The world may have lost our father, but his music and spirit are eternal. We are committed to ensuring that his legacy lives on, inspiring those who dare to dream differently,” the family’s statement concluded.