Dan Maraya Jos (born Adamu Wayya, 20 December 1946 – 20 June 2015) was a renowned traditional Hausa musician from Jos, Nigeria. He was known for his unique style of music that combined Hausa folk music with contemporary themes and instruments.
Dan Maraya Jos was born in Sabon Gari, a predominantly Hausa community in Jos, Plateau State, Nigeria. He grew up in a musical family and began performing at a young age. He was inspired by his grandfather who was a traditional Hausa musician and learned to play various musical instruments including the kora, lute, and talking drum.
In the 1960s, Dan Maraya Jos became famous for his unique style of music that incorporated modern themes and instruments into traditional Hausa music. He was one of the first Hausa musicians to use the guitar in his music and his lyrics often addressed contemporary issues such as politics, social justice, education, Entrepreneurship and morality.
Dan Maraya Jos became popular throughout Nigeria and West Africa, and his music was widely played on radio stations and at public events. He released many hit songs throughout his career, including “Teacher uban karatu,” “Mai akwai da babu,” “Dan adam mai wuyan gane hali” and “lebura” and many more.
Dan Maraya Jos was also known for his unique fashion sense, often wearing brightly colored traditional Hausa clothing and a distinctive red cap. He was a symbol of Hausa culture and tradition and was respected by many for his contributions to the preservation of Hausa music.
Dan Maraya Jos passed away on 20 June 2015 in Jos, Nigeria, at the age of 68. His music and legacy continue to inspire and influence many musicians in Nigeria and beyond, and he is remembered as one of the greatest traditional Hausa musicians of all time.
DURING SHEHU SHAGARI’S REGIME, Shagari asked him why he was late in an occasion he attended. The musician replied in Hausa, “I have no means of transportation. Me and my mentreked long distance before we could board commercial vehicle to this venue”. Shagari ordered that 2 brand new Toyota hiace buses be given to him. SOURCE: AGAPE HISTORY FM/TV
