The music world is mourning the loss of Teddy Osei, founding member of the iconic Afro-rock band Osibisa and a legendary Ghanaian saxophonist.
Late Osei passed away peacefully on the morning of Tuesday, January 14, 2025, at the age of 88, as confirmed by Bessa Simons, President of the Musicians Union of Ghana (MUSIGA).
Born in Kumasi, Osei's journey into music began in his childhood, where his fascination with instruments was nurtured.
As a college student in Sekondi, he discovered his talent for the saxophone, initially picking it up out of necessity when another band member failed to attend rehearsals.
His passion for music grew, leading him to form his first band, The Comets, after working briefly as a building inspector.
The Comets, a semi-professional band inspired by the Highlife genre, gained popularity in Ghana, recording with Philips West Africa and performing on a local radio show. However, Osei’s ambition took him to London in 1962, where he received a government grant to study music and drama.
This chapter of his life was cut short in 1966 following the overthrow of President Kwame Nkrumah, which led to the termination of his scholarship.
Undeterred, Osei continued his musical pursuits, forming the group Cat’s Paw, which gained a following in Switzerland.
Alongside his brother Mac Tontoh and fellow musician Sol Amarfio, he laid the groundwork for what would become Osibisa in 1969.
Osibisa, known for its unique fusion of African rhythms and Western rock, rose to international prominence in the 1970s, earning a place in music history as one of the first African bands to achieve global acclaim. .
Though the band’s popularity waned in later decades, it continued to perform, with Osei at its heart, inspiring audiences worldwide.
Teddy Osei’s life and career were a testament to perseverance, creativity, and the power of music to transcend borders.
His contribution to African music and his role in introducing the world to Highlife and Afro-rock will remain an enduring legacy.
He is survived by his family, bandmates, and a world of fans who will forever cherish his remarkable contribution to music. Details of his funeral arrangements will be announced in due course.
Story by: Joshua Kwabena Smith
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