The world of music has lost a pioneer. Ghanaian music legend Teddy Osei, founder of the iconic Afro-rock band Osibisa, has passed away at the age of 88. The saxophonist, drummer, and vocalist died on Tuesday in London, leaving behind a legacy that has shaped the global music scene.
In a heartfelt statement, his family described Osei as “an important voice in music and culture” whose contributions will never be forgotten. His influence stretched beyond genres, blending African rhythms with rock, jazz, and soul to create a sound that resonated with audiences worldwide.
Born on December 1, 1937, in Kumasi, Ghana, Osei’s love for music was inspired by his father, who played in prominent school bands. While studying in Sekondi, he developed a deep passion for the saxophone, a skill that would define his career.
In the early 1960s, Osei moved to London on a government scholarship to study music and drama.
It was there that he formed his first band, Cat’s Paw, blending highlife—a popular West African genre—with rock and soul. This experimentation laid the groundwork for what would become Osibisa.
In 1969, Osei co-founded Osibisa with fellow Ghanaian musicians Sol Amarfio and Mac Tontoh. The band’s name, derived from the Fante word for “highlife,” reflected their mission: to bridge African musical traditions with global genres.
Osibisa’s infectious fusion of Afrocentric sounds with rock, jazz, funk, and soul captivated international audiences. The band achieved chart success in the UK with hits like Sunshine Day and Dance the Body Music. Their live performances were legendary, earning them invitations to tour Europe, Asia, and Africa.
One of their most memorable moments came in 1980 when they performed at Zimbabwe’s independence celebrations alongside Bob Marley and the Wailers. Osei described this performance as a significant milestone in the band’s journey to connect African music with the world.
Osei often reflected on the importance of his work in promoting African music globally. In a 2021 interview with The Guardian, he said, “Osibisa gave Africans confidence in their own music.” He believed the band’s success paved the way for artists like Fela Kuti, regarded as the godfather of Afrobeat.
The Musicians Union of Ghana (MUSIGA) honored Osei’s contributions, calling him a “cultural ambassador” who bridged African rhythms with global sounds. MUSIGA President Bessa Simons praised his innovation and dedication, saying, “Teddy Osei was a pioneer who showed the world the richness of African music.”
Osei’s contributions to music extended beyond entertainment; they served as a cultural bridge, connecting diverse audiences through the universal language of sound. His ability to fuse African traditions with global styles created a blueprint for future generations of musicians.
Reflecting on his life’s work, Osei once said, “I wanted to make a difference to the African music scene.” With Osibisa, he not only made a difference but also left an indelible mark on the international music industry.
Teddy Osei’s passing marks the end of an era, but his musical innovations and the pathways he forged for African artists will continue to inspire generations to come. His legacy, much like his music, will live on.
