Tee Mac Omatshola Iseli MFR, known professionally as Tee Mac, is a talented Nigerian musician and flautist. Born on May 17, 1948, in Lagos, he hails from cross-cultural Itsekiri and Swiss roots. Tee Mac’s musical journey has spanned over 40 years, during which he achieved great success and recognition. Let’s explore the life and career of this accomplished artist who has made significant contributions to the Nigerian entertainment industry.
Tee Mac’s passion for music and academics began at an early age. He pursued a first-class economics degree at the University of St. Gallen in Switzerland, where he also focused on concert performance of classical music and philharmonic composition at the University of Lausanne.
In the late 1970s, Tee Mac and his European band, Tee Mac United, released their debut LP, “United,” under Polydor International in Germany. He also worked as the musical conductor and arranger for the renowned Welsh-Nigerian vocalist, Shirley Bassey, and composed music for Cidi Croft Enterprise and Universal Films in Hollywood, Los Angeles. Tee Mac’s talent led him to perform in various countries across the globe, including the Far East, Latin America, Europe, North America, and South Africa.
Notably, despite his international success, Tee Mac remained dedicated to supporting local Nigerian projects. He was a founding member of the Classical Music Society of Nigeria, which played a pivotal role in establishing the Muson Centre, Nigeria’s premier music school. In 2007, Tee Mac became the president of the Musician Union of Nigeria PMAN, actively working towards the advancement of the Nigerian entertainment sector.
Aside from his music career, Tee Mac also contributed to historical preservation by serving as the Nigerian director of the Motherland Group. This group aimed to create a historical slave museum in Badagry, with the support of Michael Jackson’s brother, Marlon of The Jackson 5. Additionally, he was the chairman of FAMECorp, an organization owned by renowned Nigerian musicians and Nollywood celebrities, working on constructing movie theaters and performance halls across Nigeria.
Throughout his illustrious career, Tee Mac released several albums, showcasing his versatility and talent. Some of his notable works include “United” (1973), “Save Me” (1974), “Party Fever” (1977), “Night Illusion” (1983), “Blind Date” (1985), and “Just Like a Dream” (2007), among others. His music spanned various genres, from pop to classical compositions, leaving a lasting impact on the music industry.
Tee Mac is a loving husband and father. He is married and has been blessed with three sons named Victor, Joseph, and Kingsley, who likely share their father’s love for music.
Conclusion
Tee Mac Omatshola Iseli, known as Tee Mac, is an exceptional Nigerian musician and flautist whose career has left a significant mark on the global music landscape. His cross-cultural background, along with his dedication to both international and local projects, has made him a respected figure in the Nigerian entertainment industry. Tee Mac’s contributions and musical legacy will undoubtedly continue to inspire aspiring artists for generations to come.
Follow Tee Mac on social media: Instagram: @teemac_iseli Twitter: @Teemacomatshola
FAQs
Who is Tee Mac Omatshola Iseli?
Tee Mac Omatshola Iseli, born on May 17, 1948, is a Nigerian flautist of Itsekiri and Swiss descent. He holds a degree in economics from the University of St. Gallen in Switzerland and furthered his studies in classical music at the University of Lausanne. Over a career spanning more than four decades, Tee Mac has been instrumental in shaping Nigeria’s music scene. He formed several bands, including Tee Mac & Afro Collection in the 1970s, and recorded his first LP, United, with Polydor International in Germany. His collaborations include working as a musical arranger and conductor for Welsh-Nigerian singer Shirley Bassey, as well as composing for Cidi Croft Enterprise and Universal Films in Hollywood.
What is Tee Mac’s net worth?
Tee Mac’s net worth is estimated to be between $400,000 and $1 million. This wealth is attributed to his extensive career in music, which includes recording, performing, and composing, as well as his leadership role as the former President of the Performing Musicians Association of Nigeria (PMAN). Additionally, Tee Mac has been involved in various business ventures and philanthropic activities, contributing to his financial standing.
What is Tee Mac’s family background?
Tee Mac is married and has three sons: Victor, Joseph, and Kingsley. His family background is a blend of Nigerian Itsekiri and Swiss heritage, reflecting a rich cultural lineage that influences his music and personal life. Despite his international exposure, Tee Mac has maintained strong ties to his Nigerian roots, often advocating for the welfare of Nigerian musicians and the preservation of cultural heritage.
Has Tee Mac been involved in any controversies?
Yes, Tee Mac has been a vocal figure in Nigerian politics and entertainment. In 2022, he publicly criticized Bola Tinubu, stating that at 86, Tinubu was unfit to run for president. Tee Mac later clarified that his comments were taken out of context, emphasising his respect for Tinubu’s contributions to Nigeria. Throughout his career, Tee Mac has also been an advocate for the rights of Nigerian entertainers, calling for government support during challenging times, such as the COVID-19 pandemic.
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