In their early days, Ayinla Kollington and Ayinde Barrister were more than just collaborators; they were friends, united by their military experiences and their shared vision for music. Together, they laid the groundwork for Fuji, combining traditional Yoruba sounds with contemporary influences to create something entirely new and exciting. Their partnership was marked by a deep respect and understanding of each other’s talents, with each contributing his own unique touch to the music.
However, as the Fuji genre began to gain popularity, the pressures of the music industry and personal differences began to strain their relationship. What started as friendly competition eventually turned into a bitter rivalry, with both men striving to outdo each other in the Fuji music scene. This rivalry, while it spurred both to greater creative heights, also marked the end of their close friendship.
In a candid interview a decade ago, General Ayinla Kollington reflected on the origins of their conflict. He spoke of how their friendship began to unravel, driven by misunderstandings and the intense competition that defined their professional lives. Despite the animosity that grew between them, Kollington acknowledged the immense impact they both had on Fuji music, each leaving an indelible legacy.
Kollington also recounted his experiences with Ayinla Omowura, his musical godfather, and how this relationship contributed to his fallout with Barrister. After releasing a successful album that was a direct response to his rival, Fatai Olowonyo, Kollington found himself caught in the crossfire of musical rivalries. Omowura, a legendary Apala musician, fortified Kollington with juju (traditional protection) to shield him from potential harm from Olowonyo’s supporters.
The rift between Kollington and Barrister deepened when Olowonyo enlisted Barrister’s help in retaliating against Kollington’s musical jibes. Instead of seeking to mediate between his friend and Olowonyo, Barrister joined the fray, further escalating the feud. This marked the beginning of a long-standing rivalry between the two, which, despite its bitterness, also propelled the Fuji genre to new heights.
In his interview, Kollington expressed mixed feelings about this period in his life. While he regretted the fallout with Barrister, he also recognized the importance of their contributions to Nigerian music. He spoke highly of Omowura, despite their eventual parting, and acknowledged the courage and influence of the Apala legend.
This story is not just about rivalry but also about the complexities of friendship, ambition, and the pursuit of greatness. The lives of Ayinla Kollington and Ayinde Barrister serve as a reminder of how closely intertwined these elements can be, and how they can shape the course of history in unexpected ways.