Teddy Osei, the renowned Ghanaian saxophonist and founding member of the iconic Afro-rock band Osibisa, left an indelible mark on the music world. Born on December 1, 1937, in Kumasi, Ghana, Osei’s musical journey began at a young age, shaping him into a legendary figure in African music.
Early Life and Musical Beginnings
Osei’s introduction to music came through his exposure to musical instruments during his childhood. While attending college in the coastal city of Sekondi, he attempted to form a band with his friends. It was during this period that Osei began playing the saxophone, teaching himself by listening to jazz records and playing along with the music.
After graduating from college, Osei worked as a building inspector for a year before creating a semi-professional band called “The Comets.” The band gained popularity in Ghana, recording with Philips West Africa and performing on a radio show. Their music was heavily influenced by “Highlife,” a genre that emerged from the fusion of European and African musical styles.
Teddy Osei: London and the Formation of Osibisa
In 1962, Osei traveled to London, where he received a grant from the Ghanaian government to study at a private music and drama school for three years. However, his grant was terminated after the overthrow of President Nkrumah in 1966. Undeterred, Osei teamed up with fellow musicians, including Sol Amarfio and his brother Mac Tontoh, to form the group Cat’s Paw. The group gained a following in Switzerland and eventually returned to the UK, laying the groundwork for the formation of Osibisa in 1969.
Teddy Osei: Osibisa and Legacy
As the leader of Osibisa, Osei played a pivotal role in shaping the band’s unique sound, which blended African rhythms with rock and soul influences. The band’s popularity soared in the 1970s, with hits like “Sunshine Day” and “Dance the Body Music.” Osibisa’s music not only reflected the cultural exchange between Africa and the Western world but also inspired a new generation of African musicians.
Osei’s legacy extends far beyond his own music. He once stated that “Osibisa gave Africans confidence in their own music,” reflecting on what he considered his greatest achievement. His influence can be seen in the work of later Afrobeat and Afro-rock artists, including Fela Kuti, widely regarded as the godfather of Afrobeat.
In 2021, Osei told The Guardian that he ventured into music because he “wanted to make a difference to the African music scene.” His remarkable life and career serve as a testament to his dedication to African music and his enduring impact on the global music landscape.
His Death
Teddy Osei passed away at 88 on Tuesday, January 14, 2025, in London.
The President of the Musicians Union of Ghana (MUSIGA), Bessa Simons, told myjoyonline.com that the legendary musician died in the morning of Tuesday, January 14, 2025 in London. He was 88.
