The journey stretches to Africa on the 9th May, 1970, when Agboola was delivered in Kano City. Originally from Ilesa, in Southern Nigeria, Agboola's parents moved up north in search of opportunity. Set in a conservative, Islamic north of Nigeria, Agboola's talents could not have been expected to blossom.
By His grace, it did! At the age of twelve, the young Shadare's, in spite of the religious upheaval in Kano, horned his skills in the church, beginning as a drummer. Within six years, Agboola's talents had become obvious. By 19, he had started mastering more instruments, particularly the guitar, which he dedicated much of his time to understand.
The guitar became his signature, having establishedhis own style and nitch as a multi talented instrumentalist.
Between 1993 and 1994, Agboola interacted with the group Treasure Band, appearing in several concerts, bewildering his audiences with his talents. But the maestro's roots in Christian beliefs would surpercede any other considerations. Talented as he was, playing for God's glory was paramount in his career. Between 1994 and 2002, he played with House On The Rock Musical Ministries, led by Pastor Paul Adefarasin.
When Agboola released "Dream Dawn," he quickly registered himself as the first Nigerian artist to produce a contemporary jazz album. A trend was established; a trail was blazed.
Recognition followed. In 2000, he was nominated for the highly-rated Nigerian Musical Award, where he won the BEST CONTEMPORARY JAZZ ALBUM OF THE YEAR AWARD. Shortly after, he started his own band, called the "Motivation Band."
Agboola Shadare is a songwriter, composer and producer. He has produced for popular Nigerian artistes such as Gbenga Owoeye-Wise and Mike Aremu. Shadare has released two solo albums - Dream Dawn and Glory. His major work yet is on the way.
Agboola could have arrived, but he was far from satisified. He wanted to be known on the global scale.
It is all coming together in his new abode, the United States of America, having performed alongside Ron Kenoly, Yolanda Adams, Kenoly Brothers, and Bob James.
Here comes the first smooth jazzist to bring African rhythym to the world! Here comes Agboola.
