Legendary Ghanaian highlife musician Ebo Taylor is dead.

The Musicians Union of Ghana (MUSIGA) announced that he died at the age of 90 in the early hours of Saturday, 7 February 2026.

MUSIGA president Bessa Simons said: “Ghana and indeed the world has lost a great son.”

Taylor died only a month after marking his 90th birthday and a day following the inauguration of the Ebo Taylor Festival, which was established to celebrate his musical contributions.

He was born Deroy Taylor on January 6, 1936, in Cape Coast and grew to become one of Ghana’s most respected guitarists, composers, bandleaders and producers. Over a career spanning more than sixty years, he played a major role in developing highlife and Afrobeat in Ghana and internationally, fusing indigenous rhythms with elements of jazz, funk and soul to form his distinct musical style.

Taylor gained early recognition in the late 1950s through his involvement with the Stargazers and the Broadway Dance Band. He later travelled to London in 1962 with the Black Star Highlife Band, where he collaborated with Afrobeat trailblazer Fela Kuti and other African artistes, before returning to Ghana to produce songs for renowned musicians such as Pat Thomas and C.K. Mann.

His work later attracted global attention and reached new listeners worldwide. In the 21st century, his music was sampled by international producers, including Usher on “She Don’t Know” featuring Ludacris, which drew from Taylor’s track “Heaven.” He also produced highly praised albums including Love and Death (2008), Appia Kwa Bridge (2012) and Yen Ara (2018).

Taylor remained active in live performances and recording well into his late eighties. His most recent project was the Ebo Taylor JID022 album, released in 2025 under the Jazz Is Dead series.

MUSIGA’s tribute described him as “Saltpond’s light … Ghana’s legend … the world’s icon” and highlighted that he created and managed more than twelve bands throughout his career, with the last being the Ebo Taylor and Family Band.

His passing has drawn tributes from musicians and admirers across Ghana and the international music scene, many of whom acknowledge his influence in elevating West African music on the global stage.

The music industry is grieving the death of Kwabena Owusu, better known as Aseibu Amanfi, who died on the morning of Sunday, December 28, 2025, following a short illness.

A video shared on X the same day highlighted Amanfi's passing as a powerful reminder of his influence and the mark he left on generations, signalling the close of a chapter in Ghana’s vibrant highlife music history.

His legendary track, “Kakra b3ka wo” ("a little will tell you" or "little by little will reveal to you"), embodies the virtue of patience and the revelations that come with time.

Aseibu Amanfi was a towering presence in Ghana’s music scene, celebrated for his emotive voice and the lively rhythms that brought his songs to life.

He once said, "We have somewhere to go or a journey to embark on," reflecting on life and mortality during a performance paying tribute to the late Daddy Lumba.

With unforgettable songs like "Kakra Bɛka Wo," "Bamaso," and "Asoko," Amanfi’s music has become an enduring part of Ghanaian culture, bridging generations and resonating with fans of all ages.

His work was more than entertainment; it became a cultural legacy, linking people across different times and experiences.

“In life, when a child is born, joy fills the air, celebrated with white cloth and gifts during naming ceremonies. However, when death strikes, we are left with sorrow and sympathy as we bid farewell,” he once said, capturing the profound emotions tied to life and loss.

Aseibu Amanfi’s impact went beyond music; he mentored upcoming artists and inspired many, leaving a legacy that will continue to shape the future of highlife music.

Though his passing leaves a deep void, the melodies he created will live on in the hearts of countless fans.

The music industry is grieved the death of Kwabena Owusu, better known as Aseibu Amanfi, who died on the morning of Sunday, December 28, 2025, following a short illness.

A video shared on X the same day highlighted Amanfi's passing as a powerful reminder of his influence and the mark he left on generations, signalling the close of a chapter in Ghana’s vibrant highlife music history.

His legendary track, “Kakra b3ka wo” ("a little will tell you" or "little by little will reveal to you"), embodies the virtue of patience and the revelations that come with time.

Aseibu Amanfi was a towering presence in Ghana’s music scene, celebrated for his emotive voice and the lively rhythms that brought his songs to life.

He once said, "We have somewhere to go or a journey to embark on," reflecting on life and mortality during a performance paying tribute to the late Daddy Lumba.

With unforgettable songs like "Kakra Bɛka Wo," "Bamaso," and "Asoko," Amanfi’s music has become an enduring part of Ghanaian culture, bridging generations and resonating with fans of all ages.

His work was more than entertainment; it became a cultural legacy, linking people across different times and experiences.

“In life, when a child is born, joy fills the air, celebrated with white cloth and gifts during naming ceremonies. However, when death strikes, we are left with sorrow and sympathy as we bid farewell,” he once said, capturing the profound emotions tied to life and loss.

Aseibu Amanfi’s impact went beyond music; he mentored upcoming artists and inspired many, leaving a legacy that will continue to shape the future of highlife music.

Though his passing leaves a deep void, the melodies he created will live on in the hearts of countless fans.

Legendary Ghanaian highlife musician Daddy Lumba, born Charles Kojo Fosu, also passed away months ago.

A statement by the counsel for the Fosu family confirmed that the music veteran passed on today, July 26, after a short illness.

He succumbed to the illness at the Bank Hospital in Accra, per reports.

The statement reads: "With profound sorrow and deep grief, the Fosu family announces the passing of Ghana's beloved musical icon, Charles Kojo Fosu, popularly known as Daddy Lumba, who passed away earlier today, Saturday, July 26, 2025, after a short illness."

"Daddy Lumba was more than a musician; he was a cultural icon whose music touched countless lives. His soulful voice provided the soundtrack to our love stories, and his poignant lyrics captured the poetry of our struggles, dreams, and resilience."

The bereaved family has respectfully requested privacy as they navigate this profound grief. Details of funeral arrangements will be shared in the coming days.