High-Life is a musical genre that originated in Ghana and spread to Nigeria and several other West African countries in the 1920s. It's sound is characterized by jazzy horn sections and multiple guitar leads. Since the 1920's the High Life sound has acquired more of an uptempo funk-infused synth-driven sound.
The late 1960s-70s marked a great period for these West African musicians. With foreign monetary support and growing recognition outside their home turf, the sound had established itself. But, as governments began to crumble in most of these West African countries, war would ultimately leave these musicians to find other means of living, ending this golden era in African music.
"Kyenken Bi Adi M'Awu" means come back my love. Produced by James Ofori and performed by Ghanian singer, K. Frimpong, the track is a lover's lament - essentially a blues ballad backed by some super funky accompaniment.
It's a beautiful piece, that makes me want to dance away the pain. Peep the flute solo and how deep that bass groove is. Is that a farfisa organ I hear? Respect!
K. Frimpong & His Cuban Fiestas - Kyenken Bi Adi M'Awu
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