Sunday, March 28, 2010
One Man Thousand
The 1976 album Asaase Asa (Brobisco KBL 016) was a breakthrough hit for Alex Konadu, establishing him as Ghana's foremost exponent of "roots highlife." The title song is based on a true story about Mr. Asaase Asa, who lost both his wife and sister when they were killed by a falling tree. It is dedicated to all who have lost their loved ones.
Konadu had been singing since an early age, and became a leader of the Kantamanto Bosco Group before moving on to the band of the well-known Kwabena Akwaboah for three years and then to the Happy Brothers Band. After going solo he was discovered by the producer A.K. Brobbey and the rest, as they say, is history.
His ability to draw crowds wherever he goes has given Konadu the appellation "One Man Thousand." Withstanding the vicissitudes of fame and fashion, and staying true to his vision of pure, unadulterated highlife music, he has been an inspiration to Ghanaian musicians for years. While Konadu has issued many wonderful recordings over the decades, Asaase Asa is still considered one of his most noteworthy achievements. Enjoy!
Alex Konadu's Band - Obi Aware Wo
Alex Konadu's Band - Me Ne Me Aserene
Alex Konadu's Band - Obiri Pajampram
Alex Konadu's Band - Owuo Mpe Sika
Alex Konadu's Band - Emum Aso Dae
Alex Konadu's Band - Asem Ne Me Ara
Alex Konadu's Band - Asaase Asa
Alex Konadu's Band - W'awu Da Ho No
Download Asaase Asa as a zipped file here. For a taste of Alex Konadu recorded before a live audience, be sure to check out his album One Man Thousand Live in London.
Labels:
Alex Konadu,
Ghana,
Highlife