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Celestine Ukwuoma, known professionally as Celestine Ukwu, was born in 1940 in Enugu, Nigeria. He began his music career as a vocalist and maraca player for Mike Ejeagha's Paradise Rhythm Orchestra in 1962. In the late 1960s, Ukwu fronted the Niger City Starlighters, releasing hits like "No Condition is Permanent" and "Ije Enu". After disbanding due to the Nigerian Civil War, he released "Hail Biafra" in 1970. His first album, True Philosophy, was released in 1971 under his renamed band Celestine Ukwu & The Philosophers National. Throughout the 1970s, Ukwu released several albums and over 40 songs with his band, known for their philosophical lyrics and highlife music style. His notable works include "Igede" and "Money Palava". Ukwu's music has been featured on various world music compilations, including The Rough Guide to Highlife. He died in a car crash on May 7, 1977.
