Ebo Taylor was a guitarist and composer
Legendary Ghanaian guitarist and composer Ebo Taylor has died at the age of 90.
The highlife pioneer passed away on Saturday, February 7, 2026, leaving behind a rich legacy of music that shaped Ghana’s sound and influenced generations worldwide.
Ebo Taylor, widely regarded as a pioneer of modern Ghanaian music, played a key role in shaping the sound of highlife through his fusion of traditional Fante rhythms, jazz, and other global influences.
His innovative style earned him recognition across Africa and around the world.
The news of his death was announced on Instagram by the organisers of EBOFEST, a global celebration recently held in his honour.
Ebo Taylor: The Ghanaian musician who helped put West African music on the world map
The festival, which coincided with his 90th birthday, drew music lovers and admirers from across the globe to Ghana to celebrate his life and legacy.
In a statement, the organisers described Taylor as ‘a musical titan, cultural architect, and one of Africa’s greatest gifts to the world.’
They noted that he passed away peacefully shortly after the birthday celebrations and the launch of EBOFEST.
“After celebrating his remarkable 90th birthday and launching EBOFEST, a historic movement where the world came to Ghana to honor his life and legacy, Papa Ebo has peacefully transitioned, surrounded by love, music, and the spirit of unity he spent his life building,” the statement said.
Meanwhile, tributes are pouring in from colleagues, cultural institutions, and fans across the globe.
Many remember Taylor not only for his groundbreaking music but also for his enduring influence on Ghanaian culture and the international music scene.
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