Highlife music has always been a point of pride for Ghanaians, but it seems that some people from other countries are trying to rob Ghana of its credit for birthing the genre.
A recent interview with Nigerian artiste Yemi Alade on CNN’s Larry Madowo sparked controversy when she claimed that highlife music didn’t originate solely in Ghana, but also in Nigeria. This assertion has been met with skepticism and disbelief by many in the music industry.
Yemi Alade’s comments have brought to light the ongoing debate about the origins of highlife music. While it is true that highlife has spread to other countries in West Africa, including Nigeria, Sierra Leone, and Liberia, the fact remains that highlife originated in Ghana.
Ethnomusicologist Professor John Collins has provided evidence to support this claim, citing historical facts and timelines that clearly show the Ghanaian roots of the genre.
Despite attempts by some Nigerians and Liberians to claim ownership of highlife, the truth remains that Ghana is the cradle of highlife music.
From the early sounds of Osibisaba and Adaha in the 1920s to the evolution of highlife in the 1950s, Ghana has been at the forefront of cultivating and promoting this unique musical style.
Even Nigerian music legend Fela Kuti acknowledged Ghana’s influence on his Afrobeat sound, which he developed after being inspired by Ghanaian music during a visit to Accra.
The idea of co-listing Ghana and Nigeria as originators of highlife UNESCO is a contentious issue that has raised concerns among Ghanaians.
The Ghana Culture Forum, National Folklore Board, Musicians Union of Ghana (MUSIGA), and other cultural organizations are urged to take action to protect Ghana’s legacy in the music industry.
It is essential to preserve the history and heritage of highlife music and ensure that Ghana receives the recognition it deserves as the birthplace of this iconic genre.
