Growing up, many of us loved watching Nigerian TV series and dramas, but what really drew us in most times were the theme songs. The soundtracks that made us excited even before the show started, even if you hear them today as an adult, you feel like a child again.
Productions by Wale Adenuga, such as Super Story and Papa Ajasco & Company, featured memorable music. The songs were well-made and matched the mood of each show, calm and emotional for shows like Super Story, This Life, Dear Mother, and fun and lively for Papa Ajasco, Jenifa’s Diary, and Wetin dey.
There was a special feeling that came with it. You could be outside playing, and once you heard the theme song from someone’s TV, you would quickly run inside so you wouldn’t miss it. That excitement was real. The soundtracks were like a signal that your favourite show was about to start.
These songs made us love the shows even more. They helped us connect with the stories and remember them for a long time. Even now, hearing those soundtracks can take you back to those childhood moments when all that mattered was not missing your favourite TV show.
Super Story
Super Story, created by Wale Adenuga, is one of the most popular Nigerian TV dramas ever. The iconic soundtrack for the popular Nigerian TV series Super Story was by Nigerian singer Essence; her soulful voice became synonymous with the show’s intro, which is considered one of the most popular Nigerian television theme songs. It was specially made for the show, as it had a calm, emotional sound that perfectly matched the stories.
Papa Ajasco & Company
Also created by Wale Adenuga, this show had a very lively and funny theme song. When the music was playing before the drama started, it made you ready to laugh. The song features the catchphrase: “Papa Ajasco & Company… go make you laugh and laugh until you forget your name!”. It was the show that, as kids, you wanted to watch because you knew you would be entertained and filled with laughter.
Fuji House of Commotion
Fuji House of Commotion is a Nigerian sitcom, produced and directed by Amaka Igwe, that dominated television screens in the late 1990s and early 2000s. The theme song features a call-and-response format with a male lead singer and energetic backing vocals, punctuated by laughter and conversational interludes that set the comedic tone for the drama.
This Life
Another show by Wale Adenuga, This Life, had a soft and emotional theme song. Like many shows back then, Abby Godwin was the voice behind the soundtrack for the Nigerian TV series.
Wetin Dey
Wetin Dey had a youthful and energetic theme song that connected strongly with young people.
Dear Mother
Dear Mother had a gentle and emotional theme song that matched its story. The music helped viewers connect with the struggles in the show. Dear Mother” is a beloved Nigerian drama television series, often remembered for its nostalgic 90s feel and a memorable theme song [“Dear mother, dear mother…”].
Everyday People
Produced by Tajudeen Adepetu, this show had one of the most unforgettable theme songs: ‘I will put a smile on your face because I believe in you… And I know you bring me joy for a brighter tomorrow. Every day people, that’s you, that’s me.
The song was simple and relatable, just like the show itself. It focused on the lives of regular Nigerians, work, relationships, and daily struggles. It felt very real and modern at the time.
Jenifa’s Diary
Created by Funke Akindele, Jenifa’s Diary brought a more modern style to Nigerian TV. The theme song is closely linked to her and the show’s identity. The iconic Jenifa’s Diary theme song is performed by Funke Akindele featuring K-Lite. with the line from the soundtrack that says ‘Anything she want she must to get o, oh Jenifa, Jenifa no dey gree at all’
Family Ties
Family Ties had a simple and emotional theme song that focused on love and family life. Known for its meaningful soundtrack, the show’s theme song carried a powerful message about unity, with lyrics comparing family to a bunch of brooms that cannot be broken when tied together.
