Dan Satch and Aquila Gave Us Music, Let’s Give Them Peace!

What happens when the legends we grew up on are no longer in the spotlight—but still holding onto hope?

This is the story of Dan Satch Opara—a proud Igbo musician from Eastern Nigeria, and co-founder of the Original Oriental Brothers International Band—one of the most influential highlife groups in Nigerian history.

For over five decades, Dan Satch has poured his soul into music. His melodies weren’t just sounds; they were memories. They were prayers. They were post-war healing for a people who had lost so much.

After the Biafran War, the Oriental Brothers became the soundtrack of a rising Igbo spirit. Songs like "Iheoma," "Nwada di nma," and "Osa enwe akwu" brought truth and joy to markets, living rooms, and celebrations across Nigeria—and across oceans.

For many of us, their music was the sound of home—whether that home was in Enugu or New York City.

And yet, like so many trailblazers, Dan Satch was failed by the very industry he helped build.

Despite decades of touring, recording, and inspiring millions, he never received the royalties or protections he deserved. The Nigerian music industry lacked fair copyright systems, and the giants of our past were left behind.

Today, Dan Satch sits in his modest home in Eastern Nigeria, surrounded by old vinyls and memories—still dreaming of taking his music dreams further.

Now in his 70s, he faces health and financial challenges. But his spirit? Still strong. Still hopeful.

He dreams of celebrating his legacy while he still can:

His 80th birthday

58 years as a professional artist

52 years with the Oriental Brothers International Band

That’s where I come in.

My name is Maryclare Chinedo, a Nigerian-American journalist and cultural advocate. I had the honor of interviewing Dan Satch for Igbo Nwere Mmadu—my heritage storytelling series—and it changed me. His gentleness. His gratitude. His enduring faith in the power of music... I knew I couldn’t just walk away.

This fundraiser is my way of giving back. Of honoring the legacy that shaped so many of us—and ensuring this icon can live the rest of his life with dignity, comfort, and joy.

With your help, we can:

This isn’t just a fundraiser.

It’s a chance to make sure Dan Satch’s story ends with celebration—not silence.

Dan Satch gave us music. He gave us memory. Let’s give him peace.

Let’s show him—and the world—that we remember. That we care. That he mattered then, and he still matters now.

Give what you can. Share if you care. Whether you're donating ₦2,000 or $200, you're saying: We see you, Dan Satch. You're helping one of our greatest voices close this chapter with joy, dignity, and the respect he earned.

Let’s not wait for tributes at the end.

Let’s honor him now

Want to see the legend himself?

Watch my full interview with Dan Satch below:

And if it moves you like it moved me—please give, share, and help us honor him while we still can!