Teddy Osei, the Ghanaian music legend and saxophonist who founded the Afro-rock band Osibisa, has passed away at the age of 88. Osei died in London on Tuesday, leaving behind a significant impact on both music and culture. His creativity as a multi-instrumentalist helped shape Osibisa’s unique sound, blending African rhythms with rock, jazz, soul, and funk. This groundbreaking fusion made the band one of the first African groups to gain international fame.

Osei was born in Kumasi, Ghana, on December 1, 1937. He was introduced to music by his father, who played in school bands. Osei’s passion for music grew while he studied in Sekondi, where he developed a deep love for the saxophone. After moving to London in the early 1960s, he formed the band Cat’s Paw, which combined West African highlife rhythms with rock and soul.

In 1969, Osei co-founded Osibisa with fellow Ghanaian musicians. The band’s name, Osibisa, comes from the Fante word for “highlife.” Their music transcended cultural and musical boundaries, and their hit songs like “Sunshine Day” and “Dance the Body Music” made a mark on the UK charts. Osibisa’s live performances left audiences in awe, with notable concerts including Zimbabwe’s 1980 independence celebrations, where Bob Marley also performed.

Osei’s influence on African music was immense. He believed that without Osibisa, there would have been no Fela Kuti, the godfather of Afrobeat.

His mission was to change the African music scene, and his efforts connected people through the universal language of music. His passing signifies the end of an era, but his legacy will continue to inspire future generations of musicians.

This tribute is based on information from BBC.

https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/czxk59zpdwpo

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