Ghana’s Highlife Icon Pozo Hayes Honored by Apprise Music

ACCRA, Ghana — Apprise Music Distribution, a leading independent music platform in Africa, has bestowed a prestigious plaque upon Pozo Hayes, recognizing his “outstanding musical achievement” and decades-long contribution to Ghanaian highlife music. The ceremony, held in Accra, marked a moment of celebration for the artist, born Nana Boakye Ofori Atta, whose timeless hits have entertained Ghanaians and fans worldwide while preserving the rich cultural heritage of highlife.

The honor, accompanied by an undisclosed cash award and a gift hamper, underscores Apprise Music’s commitment to spotlighting Africa’s musical pioneers. Hayes, a revered figure in Ghana’s music scene, was lauded as a “highlife cultural ambassador” whose catalog—including classics like “Akika Akikayi” and “I’ve Got The Feeling!”—continues to inspire generations. “This recognition is about more than one artist,” said Michael K. Bamfo, founder of Apprise Music. “It’s about connecting emerging musicians with the sounds that built our industry, fostering innovation rooted in legacy.”

Hayes, who has navigated personal challenges including a disability that left him wheelchair-bound after a teenage accident, as he shared in a 2022 interview, expressed gratitude for the accolade. “Music has been my life, even when work as a public servant kept me from it,” he said, Now, with Apprise Music’s support, his catalog is poised for rediscovery by a new wave of artists eager to blend highlife with modern genres.

The significance of such honors extends beyond celebration. Highlife, a genre born in Ghana’s coastal cities in the 19th century, has long been a cornerstone of West African music, blending traditional rhythms with jazz and other influences. By honoring legends like Hayes—alongside peers such as Amakye Dede and Kojo Antwi—Apprise Music aims to bridge generational gaps, encouraging rising Ghanaian artists to fuse these classic sounds into contemporary styles like Afrobeats. The success of Nigeria’s Burna Boy, who has woven the legacy of Fela Kuti into global hits, and Tems, whose Grammy-winning “Love Me Jeje” evokes soulful roots, serves as a blueprint. “Ghanaian artists could dominate world stages with this approach,” Bamfo noted. “It starts with knowing our roots.”

Hayes’ journey reflects resilience and creativity. In a 2018 interview, he revealed how he coined his stage name “Pozo,” embracing it as a symbol of strength despite its association with physical challenges. His dream, shared in an online press release, remains to headline a major concert—a goal Apprise Music’s spotlight might help realize. The platform’s extensive reach, distributing to over 150 digital stores, ensures Hayes’ music remains accessible, from Accra to the diaspora.

Industry observers see this as a pivotal moment for African music. These honors illuminate our heritage,” noted Ras Caleb Appiah-Levi, a Music and Cultural Ambassador. “They nudge young creators to fuse past and present. Honoring figures like Pozo Hayes not only preserves that legacy but fuels its evolution.”

“Highlife is Ghana’s gift to the world,” said Kwaku Mari Agya Paye, a renowned Ghanaian music producer. For emerging artists, the exposure to Hayes’ catalog offers a treasure trove of inspiration—rhythms and melodies ripe for fusion with today’s beats.

As Apprise Music continues to champion Africa’s musical heritage, the recognition of Pozo Hayes signals a broader mission: to elevate the continent’s giants while paving the way for its future stars.