The Musicians Union of Ghana (MUSIGA) has released a heartfelt statement honoring the late Naa Amanua, the iconic lead vocalist of the Ga traditional music group Wulomei, who passed away on December 16, 2024.
The statement highlights Naa Amanua’s lifelong dedication to preserving and promoting Ghanaian traditional music, leaving an indelible legacy on the nation’s cultural heritage.
“Rising from humble beginnings, Naa Amanua became one of Ghana’s most cherished traditional vocalists. Her enchanting voice and soulful interpretations revitalized timeless Ga folk music, bringing it to both national and international prominence. As a founding member of the legendary Wulomei, she played a key role in reimagining indigenous rhythms, blending traditional instruments like the gome and atentenben with contemporary elements to create a distinctive and captivating sound. Her unforgettable songs, including ‘Meridian,’ ‘Akosua Serwaa,’ ‘Akrowa,’ and ‘Menyemenye,’ remain a testament to her extraordinary artistry,” the statement reads.
Naa Amanua was recognized with the prestigious Lifetime Achievement Award at the 2018 Vodafone Ghana Music Awards, underscoring her enduring influence on the music industry. She was also an active participant in MUSIGA’s Ageing Musicians Welfare Fund (AMWeF) and remained an engaged member of the Union throughout her career.
MUSIGA’s statement further celebrates her contributions: “Naa Amanua was more than just a vocalist; she was a cultural storyteller, an ambassador of tradition, and a source of national pride. Her performances transported audiences to the heart of Ghanaian traditions, embodying the spirit and heritage of her people.”
Her passing is described as an immense loss to MUSIGA, the music industry, and Ghanaian culture at large. However, her legacy endures through her timeless recordings, the countless individuals she inspired, and her unwavering commitment to preserving Ghana’s rich musical traditions.
Naa Amanua is survived by her family, friends, and a multitude of fans whose lives she profoundly touched through her music