Amala Dede Okoh and his United Brothers

A bit confusing, but there seem to have been several United Brothers Bands in Nigeria. This particular one is led by Amala Dede Okoh. According to the label it is Ika/Bini highlife, Ika being one of the many Delta-languages. Anyway, the title track is excellent, just listen.

Abavo Alua

Globemasters Dance Band

The sixties were an exiting era, certainly in Africa. With the regained independence, everything seemed possible. Big Band Highlife reflects this sentiment best in Ghana, here is another example: The Globemasters Dance Band with the track Ananom Esia


(Comments welcome)

Eastern Pioneers of Ghana

This is one of those lucky hits: I had never heard of these guys, but it is really fine music, i'm sure you will agree. No information about the band, so just enjoy.

Eastern Pioneers of Ghana - Enye Wani Kaan

Kings International

There are a lot of Kings in Highlife, and even more International Bands. So this band's name is not very original, but their music is really worthwhile.
Just listen to the track i've uploaded for you: Very atmospheric with another special voice.
A bit like Goddy Ezike, if you ask me.
Enjoy!

Kings International

Peacocks again

I still get request for a post about the Peacocks i made several years ago. And indeed you're right, The Peacocks were one of the top guitar highlife bands of their time. It's strange that not all of their music has been re-released on cd. Here again, perhaps their most famous track: Sambola Mama, the longer version.


Sambola Mama

(Note: this will be an exception. Links die, and i'm not going to keep them alive. So please, no requests)

Olariche Brothers

Another group of brothers. Out of the albums I have of this band, this one is my favourite. The sound reminds me of the Peacocks, spacious with a lot of percussion, subtle guitars and raw voices. All in all, just the way i like it.

Want more? check out my comment.

Olariche Super Sonic Band of Owerri - Parariche

Dr. K. Gyasi

First of all, a Happy New Year!
May 2013 be a fruitful year for all of you.

But i would like to start my blog this year with a small commemoration for The Highlife Boss, who has recently departed. (Thanks Kwabena, for bringing this to our attention)
In his long career Dr. K. Gyasi was responsible for many remarkable songs, but the one that is for me his signature song is Kokro Heniko.
A melancholic song that fits the occasion.

DrKG-KH