Renowned Ghanaian musician, Teddy Osei, celebrated co-founder of the iconic band Osibisa, has passed away at the age of 88.
The music legend died on Tuesday, January 14, 2025, in London.
The President of the Musicians Union of Ghana (MUSIGA), Bessa Simons, confirmed the news to the media, describing Teddy Osei’s passing as a monumental loss for Ghana’s music industry.
“We have lost one of Ghana’s greatest musical icons,” Simons remarked.
The cause of his death is still unknown. The late legendary musician left behind two daughters, Matilda and Shanta Osei.
Teddy Osei, born in December 1937 in Kumasi, was a pioneering figure in world music, blending Afrobeat, highlife, and rock to craft a unique and globally recognized sound.
He co-founded Osibisa in 1969, a band that brought African music to international prominence with hits like ‘Sunshine Day’ and ‘Welcome Home’, which peaked at number 17 on the UK music charts, and the iconic 1971 song ‘Woyaya’.
They became synonymous for their incredible exploits as Afro-Rock pioneers.
The Osibisa music band won multiple local and international awards and was given the Lifetime Achievement Award at the inaugural Ghana UK Based Achievement (GUBA) awards ceremony in London in 2010.
They also toured multiple international countries, including Japan, Australia, and New Zealand, and performed at a concert celebrating Zimbabwe’s independence in 1980.
Osei’s love for music began early, spurred by his exposure to various instruments in his youth.
During his college years in Sekondi, he picked up the saxophone—a decision that came about unexpectedly when the original saxophonist for a band he was forming failed to show up for practice.
Teaching himself to play by mimicking jazz records, Osei developed a style that would later define his artistry.
After college, Osei briefly worked as a building inspector but soon returned to his passion, forming his first band, The Comets, which gained moderate success.
In 1962, Osei received a government grant to study music and drama in London.
His time in the UK broadened his horizons, exposing him to new musical influences and opportunities.
However, political changes in Ghana cut short his studies after three years.
Returning to Ghana before relocating to London permanently, Osei co-founded Osibisa in 1969 with a vision to bring African rhythms to the world stage.
The band’s fusion of traditional Ghanaian highlife, Afrobeat, and rock resonated with audiences globally, earning them international acclaim.
Teddy Osei’s contribution to music extended beyond his performances, serving as an inspiration to countless African musicians who sought to blend their cultural heritage with contemporary styles.
His passing marks the end of an era but leaves behind a legacy of music and cultural pride that will continue to resonate across generations.
Details of his funeral arrangements are yet to be announced.
Ghanaians Mourn Teddy Osei’s Passing
The news of Teddy Osei’s passing garnered the sympathy of Ghanaians, who mourned him.
Teddy Osei’s contribution to music, particularly through Osibisa, has left lasting legacies in The Afro-rock genre.
His passing marks the end of an era for Ghanaian music and the global music community.
“Really sad news: Teddy Osei, founder and leader of the famous seventies afro rock band, Osibisa, has passed on today. May he rest ever!”
@charlesaniagolu
The End of an Era: This morning, the passing of Mr Teddy Osei, a founding member of the legendary group Osibisa, was announced. Mr Osei, a pioneer in Afro-rock, was also the older brother of the late Mac Tontoh, a fellow founding member of the iconic band. R.I.P.”
@kofiversed
“Rest in Power, Teddy Osei. Thank you for the classic tune.”
@CunnisElijah
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