Brewster Hughes

Abioudum Oke, better known as Brewster Hughes, was born in Lagos, Nigeria. Educated at Hope Waddell Training Institute at Calabar and the Government Training College, Ibadan, he graduated as a teacher, and followed this profession for many years. During his schooldays he had learned to play guitar and over the ensuing years his love of music took pre-dominance over his teaching. He begain to entertain Lagos, and in fact, was already making a name for himself, and being noticed by some very prominent members of the music scene, when the war beagan. Brewster joined the Merchant navy in 1940 but received an injury to his eyes - which in 1944 brought his war service to an end. At this time he was in London where he met a great many musicians, including Amrose Campbell, leader of the West African Rhythm Brothers. He joined this group, and worked with them for several years before forming his own band - The Nigerian Rhythm Group. His style of playing, his singing and compositions became known and appreciated by Africans who heard him play in London and through his provincal tours. At this time, he also came to the notice of Melodisc Records who offered him a recording contract. This happy arrangement has lasted for many years and produced such memorable song as NJUGBE, TINUKE, Y.B. CLUB, I WANT TO GO HOME, etc.