Rim Akandoh Jnr Revives Highlife with ‘Man Shall Be Free’ Album and Concert
Drummer, singer, arranger, and composer Rim Akandoh Jnr, alongside his Amamere Band, has been diligently rehearsing in Cape Coast, Central Region, preparing for his upcoming album release concert on February 22, 2025, at +233 Jazz Bar & Grill, Accra.
The event will celebrate the launch of his eight-track album, Man Shall Be Free, which draws inspiration from the guitar band Highlife sound of the 1960s and 1970s, reimagined for today’s audience.
“I know there’s a lot of music being made today with different labels, but I proudly call myself a Highlife musician. That’s where my roots lie,” says Akandoh Jnr, a former drummer for the legendary Ebo Taylor’s Saltpond City Band.
His deep connection to Highlife is inherited from his late father, Rim Akandoh Snr, the leader of the Prince Sparrows Band in the 1970s. A prolific composer, drummer, and singer, Akandoh Snr’s music profoundly shaped his son’s artistic journey.
Some tracks on Man Shall Be Free are reimagined versions of his father’s compositions, honoring his musical legacy.
Bringing Highlife to a Global Audience
Splitting his time between Denmark and Ghana, Akandoh Jnr emphasizes the need for African musicians to embrace their local rhythms to gain international recognition.
“These days, African musicians are a major part of big music festivals in Europe. Those who stand out are the ones who stay true to their roots. That’s why I lean so much toward Highlife—it defines us.”
Leading a tight-knit Amamere Band, Akandoh Jnr ensures his musical vision is executed seamlessly. The band members featured on Man Shall Be Free include:
- Michael Awuni – Keyboards
- Emmanuel Adjei – Trumpet
- Daniel Yiadom – Tenor Saxophone
- Dominic Ansah – Percussion
- Emmanuel Ackon – Electric Bass
- Eric Asiedu – Guitar
- John Hakeem – Lead Vocals
Guest musicians on the album include Akablay and Kweku Mensah (guitar), Bright Osei (bass), and Richmond ‘Nii Dzata’ Bilson (trumpet). Released under the Germany-based Afro Urban Project label, the album aims to introduce Highlife to a broader audience.
A Musical Journey Rooted in Tradition
Starting as a singer, Akandoh Jnr was encouraged to follow in his father’s footsteps by incorporating drumming with vocals. This decision shaped his career, making him a sought-after drummer in Ghana.
His journey began with the Ghana National Fire Service Band (Fire Angels) in Cape Coast, leading him to work with Western Diamonds, Jewel Ackah, A.B. Crentsil, Pat Thomas, Gyedu Blay Ambolley, Rex Omar, Amakye Dede, Daddy Lumba, and more.
Among the drummers he admired were Kofi Mintah (who played for C.K. Mann, Jewel Ackah, and the Marriots Band) and George Hanson, a former Western Diamonds drummer now based in Italy. He was also inspired by legendary Nigerian drummer Tony Allen, whom he met while touring Europe with Ebo Taylor.
Taylor himself praised Akandoh Jnr’s musical evolution, stating:
“I’m happy to see Akandoh Jnr release his first album. During his time with me, his drumming had intense energy and composure. He is bringing Highlife into the future.”
Bringing Back Highlife – Album Release Concert
Titled “Bringing Back Highlife,” the upcoming concert will showcase performances by Pat Thomas, Henry Taylor, Akablay & Abiza Band, Orkore, and Native Afrik Band as guest acts.
“I want everyone to come and experience the Highlife I’m talking about. This genre is still alive—whenever music from legends like Nana Ampadu, Paapa Yankson, and C.K. Mann plays, people light up and dance. That proves Highlife still holds power.”
Akandoh Jnr expressed heartfelt gratitude to those who have supported his journey, including his family, Gyedu Blay Ambolley, Pat Thomas, Ebo Taylor, Joseph ‘Sarge’ Sam (who played bass for his father), Kwame Yeboah, the Afro Urban Project in Germany, and Prof. Karen Lauterback, Head of African Studies at the University of Copenhagen, Denmark.
“They say it takes a village to raise a child. In today’s world, that village includes people from diverse places and backgrounds. I am grateful to all who have helped me embrace my identity and take pride in it. May they all be blessed.”
Join the Movement – February 22, 2025
Venue: +233 Jazz Bar & Grill, Accra
Date: February 22, 2025
Hashtag: #BringingBackHighlife
Be part of a night dedicated to reviving and celebrating authentic Highlife music!