In celebration of the 25th anniversary of the Telecel Ghana Music Awards, legendary Highlife musician Amakye Dede will be honored with the prestigious Lifetime Achievement Award. This recognition highlights his extraordinary contributions to the Ghanaian music industry over more than five decades.
Amakye Dede’s illustrious musical journey began with the Kumapim Royals, a celebrated Highlife band led by Akwasi Ampofo Agyei (AAA), where he served as both a composer and a vocalist. His talent and dedication soon led him to form his own music group, the Apollo High Kings, which became renowned for producing numerous Highlife hits during the 1980s and 1990s.
With an impressive discography of twenty albums, Amakye Dede, affectionately known as “Iron Boy,” has significantly influenced the Highlife genre, inspiring countless artists and music enthusiasts. His work seamlessly blends Highlife with other genres such as Soca, Calypso, and Lovers Rock, enriching Ghana’s musical heritage.
Some of his notable songs include “Iron Boy,” “Su fre wo Nyame,” “Asem to me a ka bi ma me,” “Dabidabi Ebeye Yie,” “Mmaa Pe sokoo,” and “Bebrebe Yi,” among many others. These tracks have become timeless anthems, solidifying his status as a Highlife icon.
The Lifetime Achievement honour will be bestowed upon Amakye Dede at a grand ceremony on Saturday, June 1, 2024, during the 25th Telecel Ghana Music Awards. The event, powered by Charter House and supported by Guinness, Captain Morgan, CloseUp, TV3, and the British Council, is proudly sponsored by Telecel.
As the music community gathers to celebrate this milestone, we pay homage to the unparalleled artistry and unwavering commitment of Amakye Dede, a true maestro whose legacy continues to inspire generations.
