From L to R: Gyakie, Nana Acheampong, Nana Yaa, Pat Thomas, and Rev George Owusu Mensah
As the popular African proverb goes, “a crab does not give birth to a bird”.
This saying rings true in Ghana’s creative arts space, where the children of some celebrated musicians have ventured into the same profession as their parents.
Over the years, several Ghanaian artistes have passed on their musical legacy to their children, who often cite growing up listening to their parents’ music as their main source of inspiration.
This GhanaWeb article explores some Ghanaian musicians whose children are also making their mark in the music industry.
1. Alhaji K Frimpong and Cabum/Kofi Kapone
Veteran highlife musician Alhaji Mohammed Ibrahim Kwame Frimpong, popularly known as K Frimpong, rose to fame with his hit song “Kyenkyen Bi Adi M’awu.”
He was born in Ofoase, Ashanti Region, on July 22, 1939. He worked with bands such as the Vis-A-Vis Band and released albums including “Obi Agye Me Dofo.”
After his passing in October 2005, his sons Cabum and Kofi Kapone followed in his footsteps. Both are rappers making strides in the Ghanaian music industry. Cabum is known for his hit song “Zakari” featuring Stonebwoy and Sarkodie, while Kofi Kapone has a track titled “Me Feeli Wo To” featuring Flowking Stone.
2. Okyeame Quophi and Calista
Okyeame Quophi, one-half of the former music duo Akyeame, made waves with hits such as “Side Chick.”
His daughter, Calista, discovered her passion for rap at the age of six while reciting nursery rhymes in rhythm at her father’s Emklah Music Studio.
She went on to release “I Can Make It,” featuring Maame Esi of Talented Kidz fame.
3. Nana Acheampong and Gyakie
Highlife legend Nana Acheampong, known for classics such as “Abu Aka Mesim,” “Casanova,” and “Kata W’ani Te,” has passed on his musical talent to his daughter, Gyakie.
Gyakie shot to fame with her 2021 hit “Forever” and has since remained consistent, releasing songs like “Sankofa,” “Run Away,” and “Rent Free.”
4. Rev Mensah Bonsu and Efe Grace
Reverend Mensah Bonsu, famed for the gospel hit “Jehovah Ne Ma Abankese,” is another artiste whose child followed his path.
His daughter, Efe Grace, is also a gospel musician, known for songs such as “Overflow.”
5. Pat Thomas and Nana Yaa
Veteran highlife musician Pat Thomas, celebrated for “Sika Ye Mogya,” is the father of Nana Yaa, a soulful singer in her own right.
Nana Yaa has been featured on multiple songs by Kojo Antwi, including “Amirika” and “Odo A Me Do Wo Nti.”
She also has her own single, “My Hunny,” which has over 287,000 views on YouTube since its release seven years ago.
6. Rev George Owusu Mensah and Minister Kofi Owusu Peprah
Late gospel musician Rev George Owusu Mensah is remembered for his worship anthem “Matwen Awurade Anim.”
His son, Minister Kofi Owusu Peprah, resigned from his role at the National Investigation Bureau (NIB) to pursue gospel music full-time.
In interviews, Kofi Owusu Peprah revealed that the demands of his former job clashed with his passion for music. He has since performed “Matwen Awurade Anim” alongside his father on several platforms locally and abroad.
7. Okyeame Kwame and Sir Kwame Nsiah Bota
Celebrated Ghanaian rapper Okyeame Kwame’s son, Sir Kwame Nsiah Bota, has also ventured into music. He featured on the song “Saucing” alongside his father and sister, Sante. Released eight years ago, the track currently has over 345,000 views on YouTube.
JHM/MA
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