Ebo Taylor, the Ghanaian guitarist, composer and band leader whose work helped define the highlife genre and influenced generations of African musicians, has died at the age of 90, his family has announced. Born Deroy Taylor in Cape Coast in 1936, he rose to prominence in the late 1950s and early 1960s as highlife became Ghana's dominant music genre. Taylor played with leading bands like the Stargazers and the Broadway Dance Band and became known for his distinctive guitar style and intricate arrangements.
Over a six-decade career, he fused Ghanaian rhythms with jazz, funk, soul, and early Afrobeat, inspiring musicians beyond Africa. His work was rediscovered globally in the last 25 years of his life, with tracks like 'Love & Death' gaining new fans. After studying music in London in the 1960s, he collaborated with figures like Fela Kuti, contributing to the development of Afrobeat.
Upon returning to Ghana, Taylor became a sought-after band leader and producer, working with prominent artists like Pat Thomas and CK Mann. His own albums continued to garner attention later in life, reinforcing his status as a key musical figure in Ghana. Taylor's influence permeates modern sounds, seen in the works of international artists across hip-hop and R&B, reflecting his significance in bridging traditional and contemporary music styles.
Over a six-decade career, he fused Ghanaian rhythms with jazz, funk, soul, and early Afrobeat, inspiring musicians beyond Africa. His work was rediscovered globally in the last 25 years of his life, with tracks like 'Love & Death' gaining new fans. After studying music in London in the 1960s, he collaborated with figures like Fela Kuti, contributing to the development of Afrobeat.
Upon returning to Ghana, Taylor became a sought-after band leader and producer, working with prominent artists like Pat Thomas and CK Mann. His own albums continued to garner attention later in life, reinforcing his status as a key musical figure in Ghana. Taylor's influence permeates modern sounds, seen in the works of international artists across hip-hop and R&B, reflecting his significance in bridging traditional and contemporary music styles.
