Queen Asabia Cropper (Queen of High Life Music of Africa) |
In preparation towards the celebration of their 50th anniversary, Queen Asabia Cropper and Kenteman have dedicated themselves to reviving the vibrant essence of highlife music. Their recent performances have unequivocally demonstrated that the spirit of highlife music thrives untamed. Despite the rise of afrobeat music, many may have assumed that these renowned musicians would fade into obscurity; however, they have defied all odds and are flourishing even more resplendently with each passing day. Their magnetic presence has enraptured audiences at esteemed venues such as the World Highlife Day at Goethe Institute, Alliance Française, the renowned +233 Jazz Club, the Zen Gardens, the Ghanaba Heritage Centre, the luxurious La Palm Royal Beach, the Menya Krobo Fundraising ceremony, and many other celebrated events, ultimately propelling them into the limelight as revered musical icons of our time.
Kenteman, the duo's internationally acclaimed bassist, has brilliantly served as the driving force behind their musical journey, lending his unparalleled talent and skill to create mesmerizing melodies. One of the standout tracks in their repertoire, 'Wamaya,' not only dominated the music charts in Africa but also captivated audiences worldwide, earning them the esteemed recognition of a prestigious award from the Union of Radio and Television Networks of Africa (Urtna) in the unforgettable year of 1993. This accolade solidified their status as esteemed cultural ambassadors of Africa, showcasing their exceptional artistry and unwavering dedication to celebrating the rich musical traditions of the continent. Moreover, this significant milestone also led to the well-deserved honor of Queen Asabia Cropper, acknowledging her as the reigning monarch of high life music, a title that truly reflected her grace and influence in the realm of musical excellence. The fusion of Kenteman's profound musical prowess, the duo's exceptional artistry, and the global recognition bestowed upon them by Urtna represents a pivotal moment in their illustrious career, marking their unparalleled contribution to the world of music and solidifying their legacy as trailblazers in the industry.
Queen Asabia Cropper and Kenteman |
They also shared the spotlight with legends like Mama Africa - Miriam Makeba, Sankamota, and P J Powers from South Africa. Ami Koita from Mali, Senegal: likes of Amadou Doukoure and Abdoulaye Soumare from Eboni Records in Côte d'Ivoire. From Nigeria, they duo were honored to perform alongside Fela Kuti, Victor Owiafo, Victor Olaiya, Zeal Onyia, and Ras Kimono. Sam Mangwana, Mpongo Love, Tshala Muana, and Zangalewa from Zaire/Congo .
Their remarkable contributions to highlife music in the past and present have left an indelible mark on the genre, setting a standard that is truly unparalleled. Their dedication to preserving the rich heritage of highlife music is evident, and their commitment to reviving the golden era of Highlife is unwavering. With their unique blend of traditional and contemporary sounds, they have captivated audiences both locally and globally, showcasing the timeless appeal of highlife music. What sets them apart is their ability to infuse new life into the genre while staying true to its roots, ensuring that the essence of highlife music is not lost to time. Their promise to uphold the legacy of highlife music and bring back its glory is a testament to their passion and vision for the genre. As they continue on their musical journey, they are not just preserving a genre but also creating a lasting legacy that will inspire future generations of highlife musicians.
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