Ghanaian music has lost a brilliant artist with the death of Teddy Osei, the legendary saxophonist and co-founder of the influential Afro-rock band Osibisa. He passed away at the age of 88 in London, and his contributions to the music scene are celebrated worldwide. Known for his exceptional skill as a multi-instrumentalist, Osei's vision led to Osibisa's unique fusion of African rhythms with rock, soul, jazz, and funk, earning them international acclaim.
Osei's musical journey began early, inspired by his father's involvement in school bands in Kumasi, Ghana. After moving to London on a music scholarship in the 1960s, he formed the band Cat's Paw, which incorporated highlife into rock music. In 1969, he co-founded Osibisa, a name derived from the Fante word for "highlife." The band's catchy hits like "Sunshine Day" and their electrifying live performances garnered them passionate fans across Europe, Asia, and Africa.
A pivotal moment in their career was performing at Zimbabwe's independence celebrations in 1980 alongside Bob Marley. Osei's commitment to promoting African music made him a key figure in bridging cultural gaps, inspiring generations of musicians, including the legendary Fela Kuti. "Osibisa gave Africans confidence in their own music," he remarked, highlighting the significance of their work.
Osei's death marks a profound loss for the music world, but his legacy continues to resonate as a source of inspiration and joy for future artists. His impact on the global music stage remains undeniable, ensuring that his voice will never truly fade away.
Osei's musical journey began early, inspired by his father's involvement in school bands in Kumasi, Ghana. After moving to London on a music scholarship in the 1960s, he formed the band Cat's Paw, which incorporated highlife into rock music. In 1969, he co-founded Osibisa, a name derived from the Fante word for "highlife." The band's catchy hits like "Sunshine Day" and their electrifying live performances garnered them passionate fans across Europe, Asia, and Africa.
A pivotal moment in their career was performing at Zimbabwe's independence celebrations in 1980 alongside Bob Marley. Osei's commitment to promoting African music made him a key figure in bridging cultural gaps, inspiring generations of musicians, including the legendary Fela Kuti. "Osibisa gave Africans confidence in their own music," he remarked, highlighting the significance of their work.
Osei's death marks a profound loss for the music world, but his legacy continues to resonate as a source of inspiration and joy for future artists. His impact on the global music stage remains undeniable, ensuring that his voice will never truly fade away.
