This time we are looking at the magic and the music of Osibisa! Everyone knows Africa’s musical richness, but it was only appreciated through Black Music in the US and the Caribbean. It was in the 60s, with the decline of Colonialism, that modern “Afro Rock” came into the spotlight as Africa asserted itself in the world.
Thapson
Origins of Afro Rock
In the late 50s through the 60s, a young generation of musicians cropped up in Africa and African diaspora in Europe. While foreign music was big in Africa, this new generation were inspired to create music closer to their culture and musical styles. Post-colonial pride was also a catalyst. Many of these formed in Africa, while others came together in Europe.
Some names include Matata, Manu Dibango, Miriam Makeba, Mosi-Oa-Tunya, and of course, Osibisa. The original Osibisa lineup includes four Africans and three Caribbeans. These are Ghanaians Teddy Osei, Mac Tontoh, Sol Amarfio, Nigerian Loughty Lassisi Amao, Trinidadian Robert Bailey, Grenadian Spartacus R, and Wendell Richardson from Antigua.
Together these guys made some of my all-time favorite Afro-Rock fusion music!
Evolution of the Band
Formed in London, Osibisa has gone through various lineups over the years. If I were to go through a detailed history of the band, things can get somewhat complex – something I stay clear of.
It starts in 1962 with Teddy Osei studying music in the UK on a government scholarship from Ghana. Here, he dabbles in “world music” and forms his first band. He’s joined by compatriots Sol Amarfio and Mac Tontoh in 1969. These guys form the band we come to know as “Osibisa.” What does Osibisa mean? Apparently, it’s a derivative from a Fante word referring to highlife. The members say it means “rhythms exploding with happiness.” And that’s exactly what Osibisa sounds like.
The unique joyful sounds of Osibisa became symbolic of African rhythm around the world, and were emulated by other bands from the continent.
The Music of Osibisa
As with any band, the lineup was always changing with members leaving temporarily, or permanently, during recording sessions. But the core of the group was always the original trio.
But this is not a history lesson. I want to remember the music, and the wonderful memories this band created. There are others much better than I at researching the band in detail. My intention to celebrate the music for those familiar, and introduce them to the few not familiar with them.
As usual, let’s celebrate their work the only way they should be: playing their big hits – including my favorites. My favorite Osibisa period spans the mid 70s. So I’ll play my favorite Osibisa hits released during phase.
“Superfly T.N.T.” Soundtrack (1973)
During Hollywood’s “blaxploitation” era, there was this movie, “Superfly T.N.T,” starring Ron O’Neal. While the movie is almost forgotten, it did acknowledge the new upcoming Osibisa and they got to add to its soundtrack. Here’s the title track.
Indigoinsf3 / YouTube.com
Here’s another piece from the movie. You can feel hints of the musical sophistication from the band here. Listening to it tells one to watch out for good stuff from them. Note that Osibisa already had three albums under their belt by this time.
Osibisa – “The Vicarage” (Super Fly T.N.T., 1973)
Indigoinsf3 / YouTube.com
Osibisa – “Happy Children” (1973)
This was taken from Osibisa’s fifth album of the same name. I think their signature styles and sounds are beginning to establish themselves at this point.
Indigoinsf3 / YouTube.com
Osibisa – “Whos Got the Paper” (1974)
Osibisa’s sixth album, “Osibirock” was released in 1974 and this track was part of it. Osibisa had established themselves by now. I’m no musical expert, but I recognize good music when I hear it. And this here is a very cool arrangement making it a classic for me. The clip is apparently from a 1983 live performance.
Geoff Hill / YouTube.com
Osibisa – “Why” (1974)
Here’s another favorite of mine from the “Osibirock” album. Such a beautiful production. Check out the keyboard, horns, percussion, and finally the cool guitar riff. Absolutely fantastic.
Indigoinsf3 / YouTube.com
Osibisa – “Sunshine Day” (1975)
From their album “Welcome Home,” I love this uplifting number. Back when I was young, just listening to it would bring a smile on my face and pull me out of any blues.
ぼいちゃ / YouTube.com
Osibisa – “The Coffee Song” (1976)
Something interesting happened with this album. The songs by Osibisa from their “Ojah Awake” album, released in 1976, could likely be their most popular ones. It has some of their biggest hits, including this wonderful one originally sung by Frank Sinatra. Fun song, and Osibisa added their flavor to it.
TopPop / YouTube.com
Osibisa – The Warrior (1976)
Another great song from the Ojah Awake album. The song, the music, the beat says Africa in a way no one else had likely done around the world back then. This is probably among the most recognized Osibisa songs around the world. And another favorite of mine for obvious reasons.
Simon Godrey / YouTube.com
Osibisa – “Dance the Body Music” (1976)
Okay, Osibisa want you to stand up, forget all about your troubles, let your hair down and cut loose! This song’s all about the music, dance, and the rhythm. The song is so straightforward and clear, no meaning is needed. It’s all about fun, music, and the high life the word Osibisa implies.
Osibisa – Topic / YouTube.com
Times, Lineup Changes, But Osibisa Lives On
I could go on, but then, this was just intended to be a sampling of some of the best from Osibisa. There’s so much more out there to discover. I want to leave the fun of discovering, or re-discovering their magic to you. They’re still re-releasing live versions of some of their hits complete with a new lineup. The only original member of the current Osibisa is Teddy Osei, who founded the band. Some members have, unfortunately, passed away.
But one thing’s certain: Osibisa did their part in introducing the Afro-beat style of music to the world and encouraged many others to follow suit. This was a homage to a favorite band from my youth along with their timeless beat.
We’ll look at another artist soon. Until then, leave any thoughts you may have using the form below.
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