Connect with us

Entertainment

Ghana’s Highlife Icon Pozo Hayes Honored by Apprise Music

Published

on

Ghana’s Highlife Icon Pozo Hayes
Apprise Music Distribution, a leading independent music platform in Africa, has bestowed a prestigious plaque upon Pozo Hayes, recognizing his “outstanding musical achievement” and decades-long contribution to Ghanaian highlife music.
The ceremony, held in Accra, marked a moment of celebration for the artist, born *Nana Boakye Ofori Atta,* whose timeless hits have entertained Ghanaians and fans worldwide while preserving the rich cultural heritage of highlife.
The honor, accompanied by an undisclosed cash award and a gift hamper, underscores Apprise Music’s commitment to spotlighting Africa’s musical pioneers.
Pozo Hayes, a revered figure in Ghana’s music scene, was lauded as a “highlife cultural ambassador” whose catalog—including classics like “Akika Akikayi” and “I’ve Got The Feeling!”—continues to inspire generations.
 “This recognition is about more than one artist,” said Michael K. Bamfo, founder of Apprise Music. “It’s about connecting emerging musicians with the sounds that built our industry, fostering innovation rooted in legacy.”
Pozo Hayes, who has navigated personal challenges including a disability that left him wheelchair-bound after a teenage accident, as he shared in a 2022 interview, expressed gratitude for the accolade.
“Music has been my life, even when work as a public servant kept me from it,” he said.
Now, with Apprise Music’s support, his catalog is poised for rediscovery by a new wave of artists eager to blend highlife with modern genres.
The significance of such honors extends beyond celebration.
Highlife, a genre born in Ghana’s coastal cities in the 19th century, has long been a cornerstone of West African music, blending traditional rhythms with jazz and other influences. By honoring legends like Pozo Hayes—alongside peers such as Amakye Dede and Kojo Antwi—Apprise Music aims to bridge generational gaps, encouraging rising Ghanaian artists to fuse these classic sounds into contemporary styles like Afrobeats.
The success of Nigeria’s Burna Boy, who has woven the legacy of Fela Kuti into global hits, and Tems, whose Grammy-winning “Love Me Jeje” evokes soulful roots, serves as a blueprint. “Ghanaian artists could dominate world stages with this approach,” Bamfo noted. “It starts with knowing our roots.”
Pozo Hayes’ journey reflects resilience and creativity.
In a 2018 interview, he revealed how he coined his stage name “Pozo,” embracing it as a symbol of strength despite its association with physical challenges. His dream, shared in an online press release, remains to headline a major concert—a goal Apprise Music’s spotlight might help realize. The platform’s extensive reach, distributing to over 150 digital stores, ensures Pozo Hayes’ music remains accessible, from Accra to the diaspora.
Industry observers see this as a pivotal moment for African music.
These honors illuminate our heritage,” noted Ras Caleb Appiah-Levi, a Music and Cultural Ambassador.
 “They nudge young creators to fuse past and present. Honoring figures like Pozo Hayes not only preserves that legacy but fuels its evolution.”
“Highlife is Ghana’s gift to the world,” said Kwaku Mari Agya Paye, a renowned Ghanaian music producer. For emerging artists, the exposure to Hayes’ catalog offers a treasure trove of inspiration—rhythms and melodies ripe for fusion with today’s beats.
As Apprise Music continues to champion Africa’s musical heritage, the recognition of Pozo Hayes signals a broader mission: to elevate the continent’s giants while paving the way for its future stars.
https://youtu.be/5kzOjVYY5Vs?si=9Au-Y_eOcT7TgJI3
Continue Reading
Click to comment

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Entertainment

From Lekzy’s “A Fool in April” to Parrot Mouth’s “Laugh it Off”: Albert Bondah’s Rise as a Creative Force in the comedy industry

Published

on

In Ghana’s creative arts space, talent alone is not enough. What keeps the industry moving are people who can adapt, solve problems on the spot, and hold a production together when things get uncertain. That is where a true utility player stands out. And in recent times, Albert Bondah has proven exactly why that role matters, especially with his work on “Laugh It Off” by Parrot Mouth.

Fresh off the momentum of successfully steering Lekzy De Comic’s “A Fool in April”, Albert stepped into “Laugh It Off” with both confidence and pressure. The expectations were higher this time. The audience anticipated a seamless experience. The team itself included seasoned practitioners, many with years more experience. It was not just another show. It was a test of leadership, adaptability, and execution under pressure.

And the challenges came early.

From coordinating a diverse team to managing creative differences, Laugh It Off demanded more than technical know-how. There were moments when plans had to change on short notice. Timing had to be adjusted. Resources had to be stretched. At certain points, the weight of leading experienced hands could have easily unsettled the process. But this is where Albert’s strength as a utility player became clear.

Instead of resisting the pressure, he leaned into it. Drawing from his journey across theatre, comedy, and production, Albert approached each challenge with a calm, solution-driven mindset. His experience from past productions, especially handling unpredictable situations like adverse weather in earlier shows, helped him stay grounded.

On Laugh It Off, he knew when to step in, when to delegate, and when to simply let creativity flow. More importantly, he listened. Working with experienced professionals taught him the value of collaboration at a deeper level. He understood that leadership in creative spaces is not about control, but about direction.

By blending his own ideas with the input of others, he created an environment where everyone could contribute effectively. The result was a show that felt cohesive, engaging, and well-executed.

There were lessons too. Laugh It Off reinforced the importance of preparation, but also the need to stay flexible. It highlighted the value of clear communication within a team. And above all, it showed that experience is not just about how long you have worked, but how well you can apply what you know in real time. Albert brought all of that to bear.

From his early days as a student producer at Cape FM to working across major productions in Ghana’s creative arts industry, he has built a reputation for reliability and versatility. But with Laugh It Off, he did more than just contribute; he led, adapted, and delivered under pressure.

Albert Bondah- Comedy Promoter

This is what makes him a creative utility player. He is not confined to one role. He understands the full scope of production. He can move between responsibilities without losing focus on the bigger picture. And when it matters most, he shows up with solutions, not excuses.

As the curtains closed on “Laugh It Off”, one thing became clear: the success of the show was not accidental. It was the result of experience, meeting preparation, and preparation meeting preparation.

For brands, producers, and creatives looking to execute high-quality productions, Albert Bondah represents something valuable: a dependable force behind the scenes who ensures that ideas do not just stay ideas but come to life, even in the face of challenges. In an industry that thrives on unpredictability, that kind of consistency is rare. And it is exactly why Albert continues to stand out.

 

Written by: Lord Kofi Amoabeng [Creative Writer & Digital Media Marketer]

Continue Reading

Entertainment

Haruna Rashid Yussif vrs Africa University of Communication and Business; SRC Presidential Aspirant Challenges Election Outcome

Published

on

Tension is rising within the Africa University of Communication and Business (AUCB) following a dispute involving SRC presidential aspirant Haruna Rashid Yussif, who has raised concerns over the conduct and outcome of the recent Student Representative Council (SRC) elections.

Haruna Rasfid Yussif, a prominent contender in the race, is reportedly contesting aspects of the electoral process, questioning both transparency and fairness. His grievances are believed to stem from irregularities observed before and during the voting process, which he argues may have influenced the final results.

According to emerging reports, sections of his campaign team have also expressed dissatisfaction, calling for a thorough review of the election procedures. While full official details remain limited, discussions circulating within student circles suggest that the matter could escalate if not addressed by university authorities.

The SRC election, a key democratic exercise within the institution, is expected to reflect the voice and choice of the student body. However, controversies such as this risk undermining confidence in the process, particularly among candidates and their supporters.

Observers note that disputes of this nature are not uncommon in student politics, but the response from university management will be critical in determining how the situation unfolds. Calls for dialogue, transparency, and possible redress mechanisms are already gaining traction.

As of now, the leadership of the Africa University of Communication and Business has yet to issue a comprehensive public statement addressing the concerns raised by Haruna Rashid Yussif.

The coming days are expected to be decisive as stakeholders await clarity, accountability, and a resolution that preserves the integrity of student governance on campus.

The silence from authorities at the Africa University of Communication and Business is only adding to the pressure. Students across campus are beginning to ask tough questions about accountability, fairness, and whether the SRC election truly reflected the will of the people.

Student politics may often mirror national dynamics, but this situation is fast escalating beyond routine disagreement. If not addressed swiftly, it risks eroding trust in the very system meant to represent student voices.

For now, all eyes are on the university’s leadership. Will they step in to investigate and restore confidence, or allow the controversy to deepen?

One thing is clear: this isn’t just about an election anymore. It’s about credibility.

Continue Reading

Entertainment

Nigeria mourns the death of Nollywood actor Solomon Akiyesi

Published

on

Nigeria is mourns the death of Nollywood actor Solomon Akiyesi, whose passing was confirmed on Monday.

The President of the Actors Guild of Nigeria, Abubakar Yakubu, disclosed that the actor died in his sleep on Sunday in Abuja.

According to Yakubu, Akiyesi “slept and did not wake up.” He added that the late actor’s body has been placed in a morgue in the capital as the guild awaits further information from his family. The exact cause of death has not yet been made public.

Akiyesi, who began acting in the late 1990s, appeared in more than 100 movies and became known for roles in Marry Who You Love, Deadly Affair, and Desperate Ladies. Tributes have continued to pour in on social media, with colleagues and fans celebrating his impact on Nigeria’s film industry.

Continue Reading

Trending

Copyright © 2026 KPDOnline. Powered by AfricaBusinessFile