Former Nigerian Senate President, Dr. Bukola Saraki, has expressed immense pride and joy following his son Seni Saraki’s first Grammy Award win. Seni was honored at the 67th Annual Grammy Awards for his significant contribution to the ‘Bob Marley: One Love’ soundtrack, which clinched the award for Best Reggae Album.
In a heartfelt message shared on his social media platforms, Dr. Saraki wrote:
“Congratulations, Seni, on winning your first Grammy last night for your work on the ‘Bob Marley: One Love’ soundtrack, which took home the award for Best Reggae Album! Seeing you pour your heart into your passion and having it recognized on the global stage is an indescribable joy. Well done! We are super proud of you!”
Seni Saraki, a graduate of the London School of Economics, co-founded The NATIVE in 2016, a platform dedicated to showcasing African youth culture. His journey in the creative industry has been marked by significant milestones, including his involvement in the Nigerian segment of the ‘Black Panther: Wakanda Forever’ soundtrack in 2023, collaborating with artists such as Rema, Fireboy, Tems, and Burna Boy.
Reflecting on the Grammy win, Seni expressed deep gratitude to the artists, producers, and engineers who contributed to the project. He acknowledged Nigerian musicians Wizkid and Bloody Civilian, alongside other global artists, for their efforts in reinterpreting Bob Marley’s legacy. In an interview at the Grammys, he stated:
“I appreciate all the amazing artistes, producers, and engineers who were brave enough to take on this project because it is about Bob Marley’s legacy. I appreciate them for taking on the songs, reinterpreting them, and doing it their own way. Artists like Bloody Civilian, WizKid, Daniel Caesar, and Jessie Reyez.”
The ‘Bob Marley: One Love’ soundtrack is a 17-track album featuring fresh interpretations of Marley’s legendary songs. The project was a collaborative effort involving NATIVE Networks, Island Records, and Paramount Pictures. The album triumphed over strong contenders, including Collie Buddz’s ‘Take It Easy,’ Vybz Kartel’s ‘Party With Me,’ Shenseea’s ‘Never Gets Late Here,’ and The Wailers’ ‘Evolution.’
Seni’s mother, Toyin Saraki, also took to Instagram to celebrate her son’s achievement, highlighting his role as the CEO of NATIVE Networks and his partnership with the record production team and Paramount Pictures on the award-winning film’s soundtrack.
This Grammy win not only marks a significant personal achievement for Seni Saraki but also underscores the growing influence of Nigerian creatives on the global stage. The success of the ‘Bob Marley: One Love’ soundtrack serves as a testament to the collaborative spirit and innovative approaches that are redefining the music industry today.
Dr. Bukola Saraki’s public celebration of his son’s accomplishment reflects the pride and support that many Nigerian families feel as their members make impactful contributions worldwide. Seni’s journey from co-founding a platform to showcase African youth culture to winning a Grammy exemplifies the potential of passion, dedication, and collaboration in achieving excellence.
As the Nigerian creative industry continues to flourish, achievements like Seni Saraki’s Grammy win inspire emerging talents to pursue their passions and contribute to the global cultural landscape. The recognition of Nigerian artists and professionals on platforms like the Grammys highlights the nation’s rich cultural heritage and its dynamic presence in the arts.
In celebrating this milestone, the Saraki family joins a growing list of Nigerians who have been honored on the global stage, reinforcing the country’s reputation for producing world-class talent across various fields. Seni Saraki’s Grammy win is not just a personal victory but a national one, symbolizing the heights that can be reached through hard work, creativity, and unwavering support from loved ones.