The Ghana Tourism Authority (GTA) has officially launched the centenary celebration of Highlife music, a genre deeply woven into the fabric of Ghanaian culture, with a grand event held on Friday, December 19, at the La Palm Royal Beach Hotel.

The launch brought together a diverse audience including government officials, key players in the music industry, celebrated Highlife musicians, creatives, and passionate music lovers.

The event, a collaboration between the GTA, the Ministry of Tourism, Culture & Creative Arts, the Musicians Union of Ghana (MUSIGA), and the Creative Arts Agency, demonstrated a strong national commitment to preserving and promoting Ghana’s rich musical heritage.

Guests were treated to the soothing sounds of traditional palm wine music upon arrival, setting a nostalgic and culturally vibrant atmosphere for the evening. The celebration officially kicked off with the introduction of the centenary theme, “Highlife @ 100 – Our Rhythm, Our Story,” which underscored the genre’s significant role in shaping Ghana’s social, political, and cultural landscape.

The evening’s entertainment featured electrifying performances from Highlife legends such as Asabea Cropper, Kenteman, Pat Thomas, Paulina Oduro, Amandzeba Nat Brew, Bessa Simons, and Adina, all backed by a skilled live band. Their timeless classics captivated the audience, showcasing the diverse and enduring appeal of Highlife.

Maame Efua Houadjeto, CEO of the Ghana Tourism Authority, delivered the keynote address, emphasizing Highlife’s importance as a cultural export and a vital component of Ghana’s creative economy. “Highlife has significantly contributed to tourism, national identity, and the passing down of stories through generations,” she stated.

Ms. Houadjeto further highlighted the government’s dedication to supporting the creative arts, ensuring the safeguarding of Ghana’s cultural legacy and positioning Highlife as a key element of the nation’s cultural diplomacy and tourism initiatives on the global stage.

A highlight of the event was the official unveiling of the centenary celebrations, beginning with a compelling video montage that traced the 100-year history of Highlife. This was followed by the unveiling of the official “Highlife @ 100” logo, led by the GTA CEO, the MUSIGA President, and the Executive Secretary of the Creative Arts Agency.

Bessa Simons, President of MUSIGA, described the centenary as a pivotal moment for Ghanaian music. “We need to invest in documenting, educating, and creating opportunities for young musicians to ensure Highlife continues to thrive,” he remarked.

The event concluded with closing remarks from the Executive Secretary of the Creative Arts Agency, followed by networking opportunities, media interviews, and continued musical performances, maintaining the celebratory spirit throughout the night.

The “Highlife @ 100” initiative signals the start of a series of events designed to honour the pioneers of the genre, engage the youth, and promote Ghana’s musical heritage both domestically and internationally.

Image Source: MYJOYONLINE