Kwabena Kwabena urges young artistes to embrace highlife music for evergreen hits
Renowned Highlife musician Kwabena Kwabena has a message for young artistes who shy away from the Highlife genre, dismissing it as outdated: they are making a grave mistake.
With nearly 20 years of experience in the music industry, the celebrated Aso hitmaker believes that Highlife is not just the foundation of Ghanaian music but also the secret to creating timeless and impactful songs.
Speaking in a recent interview, Kwabena Kwabena expressed disappointment that many emerging artistes overlook Highlife in favor of other genres. He pointed out that while Highlife may seem “old-school” to some, its influence is undeniable, with many contemporary hits rooted in its rhythms and melodies.
“Highlife is thriving, and if you want hits, stick to the genre. Some people may think it is old-school, but many of Ghana’s top hits, such as Fameye’s Very Soon, King Paluta’s Makoma, KiDi’s Lomo Lomo, and even Stonebwoy’s Jejereje, are all rooted in Highlife,” he explained.
Highlife: The Key to Longevity and Success
Kwabena Kwabena is convinced that Highlife holds the key to both short-term success and long-term relevance in the music industry. He advised up-and-coming artistes to embrace the genre if they want to produce chart-topping hits and build a lasting legacy.
“Highlife is not just a genre; it’s a cultural treasure. Sticking to Highlife can help artistes unlock the door to relevance and longevity in the industry,” he emphasized.
Reflecting on a Two-Decade Career
As he approaches the 20th anniversary of his career in 2025, Kwabena Kwabena reflected on his journey with gratitude and humility. He acknowledged the unwavering support of his fans and the blessings of God in sustaining his career.
“I am humbled, honestly. I owe a debt of gratitude to the Almighty God and to my fans all over the world for their support over the years,” he shared.
For the seasoned musician, staying relevant in an ever-evolving music industry is his greatest achievement. “Being in the industry for close to two decades is my biggest reward. Next year marks 20 years, and staying relevant all this time is the greatest gift God has given me,” he added.
Highlife’s Enduring Legacy
Kwabena Kwabena’s call for a renewed focus on Highlife music highlights its enduring significance in Ghanaian culture. His advocacy serves as a reminder that while the music landscape may evolve, certain genres remain timeless and essential to national identity. As he prepares to celebrate two decades in the music industry, Kwabena Kwabena’s legacy stands as a testament to the power of staying true to one’s roots while evolving with the times.
