Theresa Onuorah is a Nigerian musician popularly known for her influence to Egedege Dance, the Igbo cultural music.[1] She is a native of Unubi, Anambra State.[2]
She was born on 9 January 1942 in Unubi, Anambra state, Nigeria. She is a native of Unubi, Anambra State. She is a highlife musician and dancer. popularly known for being the founder of the famous dance troop 'Egedege Dance troupe.[3]
In October 2021, she came into limelight once again when she was featured in a song Egedege by Larry Gaaga alongside Flavour N' abania and Phyno .[4]
Early life
Theresa was born on 1942 in Unubi, a town in Nnewi south local government area of Anambra State.[2] Her father was a famous 'Egwu Ekpili 'musician. Played a significant role in nurturing her passion for music, laying the foundation for her future endeavors. Theresa's passion for music ignited at a young age. As a teenager, she embarked on a performance career, traveling from town to town singing and dancing at local events. By the time she was 20, she already established her platform. [4]
However, her early focus on music left limited time for formal education.[5]
Career
Theresa started singing and dancing at very tender age. But released her first album at the age of 34 . some of her hit albums are Oba egwu, Onwanwa mu na chimo and Ogene Ekwubego mu na onye ga-agba egbu. In 1985, she formed the Egedege Dance troupe, whose name signifies 'prosperity and courage'.Under her guidance, Egedege Dance became a celebrated brand, synonymous to the igbo traditional dance.[3]
Her unique sound combines traditional instruments(udu,Ekwe),distinctive drumming, call-and-response vocals and captivating storytelling, making her unmistakably hers.[6]
She is a highly sought-after performer in the southeast. Frequently, invited to grace weddings, festivals and funeral with her captivating music and dance. Having at your event is considered a thing of pride and brings prestige to the event. she transformed Egedege from a regional tradition into a nationally celebrated art form.[7]