Veteran Juju and Highlife singer Iyun Ayilore, popularly known as Saint Janet, has died.
Her manager, Jide Bass, confirmed that the singer passed away on Saturday, August 1.
Saint Janet was widely known for her unconventional musical style, blending Juju and Highlife with street slang, provocative storytelling, and adaptations of gospel sounds. She often referred to herself as the General Overseer of the Sinners’ Chapel and St Bottle’s Cathedral, a persona that made her one of the more controversial figures in Nigeria’s Juju music scene.
Born Iyun Ayilore, she earned a diploma in Mass Communication from Moshood Abiola Polytechnic in Abeokuta.
Her musical journey began at the age of four in her local church choir. At 18, she joined the Los Kenge Highlife/Juju Band in Abeokuta as a backup vocalist, a role that laid the foundation for her career as a solo performer.
Saint Janet is survived by her husband, Kayode Iyun, and their son, Orinayo Michael.
Her passing has been met with condolences from fans and colleagues who remembered her distinctive contribution to Juju and Highlife music.
May her soul rest in peace.