The Musicians Union of Ghana (MUSIGA) will honour Ghana’s music legends, including the late Highlife icon Daddy Lumba, with a National Music Museum and Hall of Fame.
This move responds to growing concerns about the poor recognition and documentation of music pioneers. These legends shaped Highlife, a genre deeply rooted in Ghana’s cultural identity.
MUSIGA President Bessa Simons told Graphic Showbiz on August 5 that the Union is working with the Ghana Museums and Monuments Board (GMMB) to create a national music archive.
The museum will showcase Ghana’s musical history, from major genres to landmark events and iconic musicians.
“We are documenting our artists because there’s no proper database. For example, CK Mann’s work lacks full documentation. Lumba will be included. That’s why we want a national archive to honour these icons,” Simons said.
The facility will not only preserve Highlife’s history but also cover all other genres in Ghana. Visitors will also experience a Hall of Fame that captures the nation’s entire music story.
MUSIGA also plans tribute concerts and educational workshops for Daddy Lumba and other late legends.
“There will be a tribute concert and workshops to teach Lumba’s impact on Highlife. He brought a unique style to the genre,” Simons explained. A Highlife music seminar will also be held at year’s end, with the Ministry of Tourism, Creative Arts Agency, Ghana Tourism Authority, Commission on Culture, and Folklore Board.
The Union is pushing for UNESCO to list Highlife as part of Ghana’s intangible cultural heritage. They expect this by November.
“We began the process before Lumba passed away. We want Highlife to be linked to Ghana like Reggae is to Jamaica,” Simons noted.
Simons called for renewed interest in Highlife among young people. He believes national neglect and poor storytelling have reduced its appeal.
“We must inspire the youth to embrace Highlife. It is the foundation of most music in Ghana today. Every modern sound carries traces of it,” he said.