Mr. Saibu Ayinde Bakare was born on March 14, 1912 in Lafiaji. His parents hailed from the Ajikobi family in Ilorin Kwara State. He started his musical career in 1932 when he was a PWD worker. He had his musical apprenticeship under Mr. Tunde King who taught him how to play guitar. Ayinde Bakare and his Group perform in the traditional African style with enchanting songs and great lyrics. Even if you have never heard ” Highlife” before or do not understand the language,

you will be captivated by the exciting rhythm. He was very famous in his own right. Ayinde Bakare and His Group helped greatly to popularize ” Highlife” to people throughout the World. He traveled with the Nigerian contingent to London in 1957 for the first world conference a Nigeria pre-independence affair. He brought Ambrose Campbell down to Nigeria in 1958. Daniel Akinola, his associate, composer, and vocalist were well known for the insight and depth of feeling which pervades his compositions. His songs are of life and depict the real essence of life.

Ojo Akinola his brother played the Maracas with his well-known skill and originality. Akanbi, alias “Arise” was on the talking drum. Ayinde Bakare died on October 1, 1972, under mysterious circumstances.