On Sunday, 16th November, 2025, Alhaji Wasiu Haruna Ishola L1, popularly known as Lagunja 1, a veteran Nigerian apala singer, shut down Marquee Hall at Lateef Jakande, Agidingbi, Ikeja, Lagos as he launches his much-anticipated new album, Masterpiece. The event brought together music lovers, industry stakeholders, and cultural influencers to celebrate legacy, creativity and a bold move forward.
The occasion was graced by personalities such as, Chief Adeniyi Ade Bolu, popularly known as Sekere Of Lagos.
The occasion was also graced by MC Oluomo and iconic singers and performers, K1 De Ultimate and Pasuma.
The album launch event was rich with energy as there were electricfying performances of tracks steeped in Apala and Fuji tradition by these celebrity guests including K1 De Ultimate, Pasuma and Alhaji Abdulkabir Bukola Alayande, to mention a few.
Alhaji Haruna Ishola’s album has one part rooted in Fuji, the other in pure Apala which send a reminder of his lineage.
Most important performance was that of Alhaji Wasiu Haruna Ishola L1. With Masterpiece now out, the public will be watching how this project influences the conversation around Apala and Fuji in contemporary Nigerian music.
For L1, the launch wasn’t merely about album release, it was about making everyone understand that these genres can be both remembered and reinvented. While speaking about the album, he says, “The journey begins with BISMILLAH. From WITH TIME to the wisdom of ETO, the soul-moving ATORIN, and the greatness of ELERE NLA. Pure gold shines in WURA, the heart speaks in ARA MI, and the spirit of tradition roars in SASORE.” These are also the songs in the album which give a proper mix of Fuji and Apala. MASTERPIECE is out on all music platforms and physical copies are also available in all major outlets across Nigeria.
