Highlife music, a genre that originated in Ghana in the early 20th century, is a vibrant blend of traditional African rhythms, jazz, and swing.
Over the decades, it has evolved, influencing and being influenced by various musical styles across West Africa and beyond.
As the genre continues gaining international recognition, musicians and industry players are urged to maintain its authenticity while promoting it globally.
Highlife music is characterized by its upbeat tempo, catchy melodies, and the use of instruments such as the guitar, trumpet, and saxophone.
The lyrics often reflect themes of love, social issues, and everyday life, making Highlife a significant cultural expression.
Over the years, artists like E.T. Mensah, Amakye Dede, and Osibisa have played pivotal roles in popularizing Highlife, blending it with other genres such as reggae, funk, and hip-hop.
Deputy Executive Director of the National Commission for Culture (NCC), Fio Richardson Commey, stressed the need to preserve the original elements of Highlife music, warning that Ghana’s reputation as the birthplace of Highlife could be at risk if artists prioritize short-term gains over the genre’s authenticity.
“This designation will be the global official endorsement of Highlife as a unique artistic product from Ghana and it will automatically put the nation in a state of consciousness in taking critical steps to safeguard this enviable heritage for generations yet unborn.”
Fio Richardson Commey
This comes after the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization(UNESCO) announced that Highlife music will be officially recognized as part of the nation’s cultural heritage by the end of 2024.
This recognition will affirm Highlife music as uniquely Ghanaian, preventing any other country from claiming its origins.
Mr. Commey maintained the need to make Highlife attractive to young people.
“We must safeguard and ensure its vitality and viability and make it attractive to the young people and also ensure education and transfer of the knowledge about the music to the youth and young people,” he said.
Highlife music is a treasure trove of cultural heritage, storytelling, and musical innovation.
As it continues to gain global recognition, the responsibility lies with musicians and industry players to uphold its authenticity.
By embracing the genre’s roots, engaging with local communities, and promoting it through strategic initiatives, Highlife flourishes on the world stage while remaining true to its rich cultural heritage.
The future of Highlife music depends on a collective commitment to preserving its essence, ensuring that it resonates with both local and global audiences for generations to come.
Music Consumers Encouraged to Patronize a Cultural Treasure
In recent years, there has been a noticeable revival of interest in Highlife music, both in Ghana and among the African diaspora.
With a growing emphasis on cultural identity and heritage, many young people are rediscovering Highlife as a means of connecting with their roots. This cultural pride fuels a desire to embrace and promote traditional music genres.
Contemporary artists are infusing Highlife with modern sounds, creating a fusion that appeals to younger audiences. This blending of genres has led to innovative interpretations of Highlife, making it relevant in today’s music landscape.
As Highlife music gains momentum, it is essential for music consumers to actively support and patronize this genre.
Ghanaian singer, Adina suggested that to encourage a lot of musicians to do highlife, music consumers should develop some love for the genre.
“When people release highlife music, it should be embraced. A lot of people should help it to grow because I feel like in Ghana most people go with what is popular so if a popular genre comes out, if someone does a song that is in the popular genre that is what the kids will promote or even the media houses might want to support.”
Adina
Other music stakeholders have suggested various strategies to help promote highlife.
As the genre continues to evolve and adapt to modern influences, it remains a vital part of Ghanaian heritage and identity.
By actively patronizing Highlife, consumers not only contribute to the preservation of this rich musical tradition but also enrich their own lives with its infectious rhythms and heartfelt storytelling.
Embracing Highlife is not just about enjoying music; it is about celebrating culture, community, and the power of artistic expression.
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