The University of Lagos (UNILAG) has elevated Dr. Oluwaseyi Kehinde Ezekiel, widely known as Sheyi Kehnny (DSK), to the prestigious rank of Professor in the Music Unit, Department of Creative Arts.
Ezekiel, a distinguished scholar, performer, and music technologist, is renowned for his exceptional contributions to musicology, jazz studies, performance practice, music technology, acoustics, psychoacoustics, and choral and band studies. Until his recent promotion, he served as an Associate Professor and has also held key administrative roles, including Sub-Dean of the Faculty of Arts and Chairman of Culture and Ethics at the university.
Born in Lagos State but hails from Oyo State, Kehnny has built an illustrious career marked by academic excellence, professional innovation, and artistic distinction. He holds the unique distinction of being the first Ph.D. graduate produced by the Music Unit of the Department of Creative Arts, University of Lagos.
His academic journey also includes advanced training at Trinity College of Music, London, as well as certifications in entrepreneurship, leadership, and consultancy from Iowa State University, USA, and the University of Lagos.
Beyond academia, Kehnny is a celebrated music practitioner and widely regarded as one of Africa’s finest bass guitarists, known for his rare ability to interpret complex contemporary and art music with remarkable precision. Over the years, he has shared the stage with prominent Nigerian and international artists, including Onyeka Onwenu, Orlando Julius, Daddy Showkey, Panam Percy Paul, Kenny Saint Brown, Kunle Ajayi, Mike Aremu, Yinka Davies, Dunsin Oyekan, and Brodashaggi.
He currently serves as the Music Director of Daystar Christian Centre, where his leadership continues to shape contemporary gospel music performance in Nigeria. His influence extends to mentoring several successful figures in the entertainment industry, including Brodashaggi, Mo’Cheddah, Helen Paul, and Officer Woos.
A prolific researcher, Kehnny has authored over 40 scholarly publications in both national and international journals and has presented papers at conferences across Nigeria and the United States. His research excellence has earned him notable recognitions, including the Best Researcher Award at the University of Lagos International Research Fair and a Ph.D. Research Grant that supported part of his doctoral work at Western Carolina University, USA.
In addition, he has actively participated in international collaborations, including performances organized by the American Consulate and a landmark musical engagement with a 60-man American Navy Band during their 2023 visit to Nigeria.
Reacting, Kehnny expressed profound gratitude to God, mentors, colleagues, and family members for their unwavering support throughout his journey. He particularly acknowledged the leadership of the University of Lagos, including the Vice-Chancellor, Professor Folashade Ogunsola, for her mentorship and commitment to academic excellence. He also appreciated the spiritual guidance of Senior Pastors Sam and Nike Adeyemi of Daystar Christian Centre.
Describing the promotion as a shared achievement, Professor Kehnny reaffirmed his commitment to advancing teaching, research, and service, while continuing to inspire the next generation of musicians and scholars.
With this elevation, Professor Sheyi Kehnny further cements his position as a leading figure in Africa’s academic and music landscape, whose work continues to bridge scholarship and performance with enduring impact
