In a profound loss for the music world, Teddy Osei, the celebrated Ghanaian saxophonist and co-founder of the influential Afro-rock band Osibisa, has died at the age of 88 in London. His passing, announced this Tuesday, marks the end of a remarkable journey for a musician who dedicated his life to bridging African music with global audiences.
Osei is remembered as a visionary artist who revolutionized the music scene with Osibisa, a band he co-founded in 1969 alongside fellow Ghanaians Sol Amarfio and Mac Tontoh. The band’s name, derived from a Fante word for “highlife,” perfectly captured their mission: to fuse the vibrant energy of African musical traditions with the sounds of rock, jazz, and funk. This approach garnered them international acclaim, transforming Osibisa into one of Africa’s first globally recognized musical groups.
Born on December 1, 1937, in Kumasi, Ghana, Osei displayed musical talent from an early age, nurtured by his father's involvement in local school bands. His affinity for the saxophone blossomed during his music studies in Sekondi. In the early 1960s, Osei moved to London on a government scholarship, where he formed the band Cat’s Paw, further enriching the sound of highlife with rock and soul influences.
As the creative force behind Osibisa, Osei played an instrumental role in producing hit songs such as "Sunshine Day" and "Dance the Body Music," which dominated charts in the UK. Their electrifying performances captivated audiences worldwide, leading to memorable shows, including one at Zimbabwe’s independence celebration in 1980 alongside legends like Bob Marley and the Wailers.
Tributes poured in following his death, with the Musicians Union of Ghana (Musiga) highlighting Osei's instrumental role as a "cultural ambassador" who connected African music with the global stage. Musiga President Bessa Simons noted, “Teddy Osei was not only a pioneer in the world of music but also a cultural ambassador who helped bridge the gap between African rhythms and global sounds.”
Reflecting on his journey, Osei once stated, “I wanted to make a difference to the African music scene.” His legacy is evident in the paths he forged for artists like Fela Kuti, who credited Osei for paving the way for Afrobeat. Osei's dedication to African music has inspired countless musicians and continues to resonate culturally and musically.
The music industry mourns his passing, yet his legacy will live on, inspiring future generations to explore the rich tapestries of African music and beyond.
