Legendary Highlife Singer Godwin Kabaka Dies at 77
Legendary highlife singer Godwin ‘Kabaka’ Opara has passed away at the age of 77.
Kabaka’s record label, Derda Promotions announced his demise in a statement on Friday.
“Derda Promotions is deeply saddened to announce the passing of our esteemed artist, Godwin Kabaka Opara, an icon who pioneered and revolutionized Highlife music, on March 21st, 2024,” the statement reads in part.
Kabaka was a talented and popular songwriter and guitarist whose contagious highlife music delighted many admirers.
His musical career encompassed multiple decades, genres, and bands.
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In 1973, he co-founded The Oriental Brothers International Band, a Highlife force recognized for its socially conscious lyrics, musical prowess, and authentic sound that captivated millions of people in Africa and beyond.
Kabaka began his solo career in 1976, when he formed The Kabaka International Guitar Band. He continued to make high-quality Highlife music, releasing fourteen albums and producing successes such as ‘Mangala Special’.
He also experimented with Ezebongo rhythms to demonstrate his versatility and ingenuity. Later, he collaborated with The Imo City Band, cementing his legacy as a Highlife legend.
He returned triumphantly in September 2023 with the album ‘The Return of Kabaka’, which received over a million streams and ranked in the top 100 albums worldwide.
