Olugbade Okunade

Olugbade Okunade, aka GP Saxy, grew up in the afrobeat capital of the world, Lagos, Nigeria. Olugbade started performing trumpet at 15 years old. By 2000, he joined Fela Anikulapo Kuti’s world renowned afrobeat orchestra, Egypt 80. For the next 14 years he toured the world performing at festivals and concerts on the world stage; WOMAD (UK), Bluesfest (AUS), Cochella (US), TV show – Later with Jools Holland (UK), Montreal Jazz Festival (CAN), New Orleans Jazz Festival (US), Fuji Rock Festival (JPN) and many more.

Now based in Melbourne, Australia, GP Saxy has ventured into his own project, Alárìíyá, meaning ‘party people’ in Nigeria’s Yòrùbá language. He is passionate about keeping true to the form of Nigerian afrobeat, while blending it with high-life and jazz, to create a unique sound. GP Saxy brings a wealth of knowledge about Nigerian music and culture to Australia; and Melbourne, being the music capital, has soaked it up.

This multi-instrumentalist, composer and producer draws upon afrobeat, funk, juju, fuji, highlife and gospel to bring a unique and innovative sound. GP Saxy captivates the audience wherever he plays. When he’s not performing with Alárìíyá, you can catch him with Public Opinion Afro Orchestra, Cumbia Cosmonauts, Papa Chango, Lamine Sonko & The African Intelligence and The Upstanding Members.

Olugbade Okunade facilitates Nigerian cultural workshops for schools and private groups. In 2016, he completed the Emerging Cultural Leader course at Footscray Community Arts Centre, Melbourne.

Upcoming Events – GP Saxy

Sat, June 17th, 6:30pm
The Poetic Jazz Sessions with the Band of Brothers
Afro Hub, 727 Nicholson St, North Carlton