During the Reception, we will be playing Yoruba Highlife music. Yoruba Highlife is a vibrant West African music genre, deeply rooted in the culture of Nigeria's Yoruba people. It uniquely blends traditional African rhythms with Western instruments like guitars and brass. Its sound is characterized by upbeat tempos, intricate guitar riffs, and the expressive "talking drums" (dundun) which mimic Yoruba language tones, adding rich narrative depth. Lyrics often feature proverbs, social commentary, and praise.

Leading the genre were figures like Dr. Victor Olaiya, a trumpet maestro whose band defined early Nigerian Highlife with its sophisticated blend of jazz and local rhythms. While primarily known for Jùjú, King Sunny Adé's early work and his genre's evolution were heavily influenced by Highlife, expanding its percussive and guitar-driven sounds globally. These artists cemented Yoruba Highlife's legacy as a vital cultural chronicler and foundational influence on modern Nigerian music.

Yoruba clothing is pretty straightforward.

For the gentlemen, the classic look involves a grand, often embroidered Agbada – a flowing robe – worn over a Buba, which is a loose shirt, and Sokoto trousers. This is typically finished with a stylish Fila, a cap.

Ladies will often wear the graceful Iro and Buba, a wrap skirt paired with a fitted blouse. This is usually accompanied by a show-stopping Gele, a headwrap that's often a true work of art, and sometimes an Ipele, a shoulder sash. You'll see beautiful fabrics like handwoven Aso-Oke and elegant lace.

A friendly tip: please don't just Google "Nigerian clothing" for inspiration. There are 300 tribes in Nigeria and they all have different clothing. For the most stunning examples of Yoruba wedding attire, check out "yorubawedding" on Instagram. You'll thank us later!

If you need any help getting yoruba clothing, please contact the bride or groom. They know all the best most affordable vendors.