“Someone, somewhere, is waiting for your voice to break their chains—so speak out!” — Itunu Barnabas Oyewale

 

 “SOMEONE, SOMEWHERE, IS WAITING FOR YOUR VOICE TO BREAK THEIR CHAINS—SO SPEAK OUT!” — ITUNU BARNABAS OYEWALE

 

Itunu Barnabas Oyewale, winner of the first prize in the recently concluded African Human Rights Music Competition, is a Nigerian music professional with deep cultural roots. Originally from Kosobo in Oyo East, Oyo State, but born in Ikotun, Lagos State, Oyewale holds a Bachelor of Arts and a Master of Arts degree in Music Theory and Composition from the University of Nigeria, Nsukka, and is also a graduate of Music from Ignatius Ajuru University of Education.

A truly global artist, Oyewale has mastered the art of performance and composition for both choral and instrumental ensembles. His career spans multiple roles—educationist, conductor, performer, publisher, and composer. Known for his creative fusion of African and Western musical traditions, he is deeply committed to using music as a tool for advocacy, innovation, and cultural preservation.

WA: CAN YOU INTRODUCE YOURSELF AND TELL US A BIT ABOUT YOUR MUSICAL BACKGROUND?
OYEWALE: I am Itunu Barnabas Oyewale, a music practitioner with both Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees in Music Theory and Composition from Ignatius Ajuru University of Education, Port Harcourt, and the University of Nigeria, Nsukka. My work spans instrumental performance, music education, conducting, publishing, performance, and composition. I am best known for blending African and Western genres in my compositions.

I actively promote African music, with my works performed in Nigeria and internationally at events such as The Bridge Concert III (A Black History Month Concert) in the USA, programs by the Music Society of Nigeria (MUSON), and performances with the Foundation Choir and Orchestra. My notable works include Atewo—an African dance for piano—as well as compositions for violin, flute, solo voice, choirs, brass and string ensembles, and full orchestra.

WA: WHAT MOTIVATED YOU TO PARTICIPATE IN THE AFRICAN HUMAN RIGHTS MUSIC COMPETITION?
OYEWALE: After reviewing the competition guidelines, I saw it as a golden opportunity to contribute to the ongoing conversation on human rights in Africa. I wanted to add my voice to the call for equality, justice, and change through music.

WA: HOW DID YOU HEAR ABOUT THE COMPETITION?
OYEWALE: Through a private WhatsApp group called SPV Music Hub created by Anu Asaoye.

WA: WHAT HUMAN RIGHTS ISSUE DID YOUR SONG ADDRESS?
OYEWALE: My song addresses equality, justice, gender rights, freedom, unity, empowerment, activism, and solidarity.

WA: WHY DID YOU CHOOSE THAT THEME?
OYEWALE: My song Break the Chains is a freedom anthem, which aligns perfectly with the competition’s theme.

WA: WHAT INSPIRED THE LYRICS AND COMPOSITION?
OYEWALE: The song aims to empower people to advocate for human rights, promote equality and justice, and inspire unity against oppression.

WA: HOW DOES YOUR MUSIC REFLECT SOCIAL OR HUMAN RIGHTS ISSUES?
OYEWALE: The chorus, “Break the Chains,” calls for freedom from oppression, social injustice, discrimination, and inequality. It’s a rallying cry for advocacy and activism.

WA: WHAT CHALLENGES DID YOU FACE DURING CREATION?
OYEWALE: I had the melody before the lyrics, so fitting the words into the composition was a challenge that took time and careful crafting.

WA: HOW HAS THIS COMPETITION SHAPED YOUR VIEWS ON HUMAN RIGHTS?
OYEWALE: It reinforced the importance of advocacy and reminded me that my voice—through music, writing, and public engagement—can make a difference.

WA: WHAT ROLE DOES MUSIC PLAY IN PROMOTING HUMAN RIGHTS IN AFRICA?
OYEWALE: Music unites cultures, communicates across boundaries, and amplifies the voices of the oppressed. It is a powerful tool for resisting injustice and advocating equality.

WA: DID THIS EXPERIENCE OPEN NEW COLLABORATION OPPORTUNITIES?
OYEWALE: Yes. I created four versions of my song and invited five colleagues to review them before finalizing the piece. This process connected me with like-minded creatives.

WA: HOW DID IT FEEL TO BE RECOGNIZED ON THIS PLATFORM?
OYEWALE: I am delighted. It’s gratifying to know that my voice can contribute to change.

WA: WHAT WAS IT LIKE COMPETING WITH ARTISTS FROM OTHER AFRICAN COUNTRIES?
OYEWALE: It showed me that a better Africa is possible—one without boundaries, where ideas flow freely.

WA: HOW CAN COMPETITIONS LIKE THIS ADVANCE HUMAN RIGHTS?
OYEWALE: They encourage inclusiveness, hold the justice system accountable, amplify marginalized voices, and promote peace and unity.

WA: WERE THERE ANY OTHER ENTRIES THAT INSPIRED YOU?
OYEWALE: Yes. I heard a submission after sending mine and was impressed. It’s uplifting to know there are many voices advocating for freedom, justice, and equality.

WA: HOW WILL YOU CONTINUE USING MUSIC TO ADVOCATE HUMAN RIGHTS?
OYEWALE: I will keep writing human rights-themed music and welcome collaborations with individuals or organizations that share my vision.

WA: WHAT IMPACT DO YOU HOPE YOUR SONG WILL HAVE?
OYEWALE: I hope it sparks hope, unity, and determination in the fight against injustice and discrimination.

WA: HOW CAN YOUNG AFRICAN MUSICIANS CONTRIBUTE TO HUMAN RIGHTS ADVOCACY?
OYEWALE: Through compositions, performances, concerts, operas, and cultural exchanges. Beyond music, they can engage in debates, essays, skits, game shows, and educational programs.

WA: WHAT ADVICE WOULD YOU GIVE FUTURE ENTRANTS?
OYEWALE: Don’t be silent. Someone is waiting for your voice to set them free—speak out!

WA: WHAT’S NEXT FOR YOU?
OYEWALE: I’m composing an African opera focused on human rights, to be published as a book and shared globally. I aim to complete it within six months and welcome partnerships to make it a reality.