Legend of The Week – George Darko

Nana Yaw Ampem Darko, known as George Darko, started as an instrumentalist. He mastered the guitar and fit perfectly in any band. A royal from Akropong, Akuapem in Ghana, he began his music journey early. He made guitars from materials like gallons, wood, and wires. His passion led him to remarkable achievements.

In an interview, he discussed challenges in his music career. He said it was taboo for a future lawyer to play guitar. “I was sacked from the palace,” he recalled. It felt sacrilegious for the son of a paramount chief to choose music.

He believed it was God's plan for him to change the music scene. Indeed, he transformed it with his unique style and poise.

After leaving home, he stayed with a sub-chief in Akropong. Later, he joined the Ghana Armed Forces and formed the Fourth Dimension Band. This marked the beginning of his professional career.

During peacekeeping missions in the Middle East, he entertained fellow soldiers with his band. He also developed skills as a songwriter and vocalist influenced by his father's cultural background. Jimi Hendrix and Carlos Santana inspired him greatly.

After military service, Darko formed the Golden Stool Band in the 1970s. The band moved to Germany where he went solo later on. In 1982, he created the Bus Stop Band and earned the title ‘King of Burger Highlife.’

The term ‘Burger’ refers to Ghanaians living abroad during that time.

In 1991, Darko became Tufuhene (chief of gunners) of Akropong, Akuapem. His first album 'Friends' came out in 1983 along with 'Highlife Time.' The latter featured hits like ‘Akoo Te Brͻfo.’

In 1986 under A&B Records, he released ‘Moni Palava,’ which included ‘Obi Abayewa.’ Other albums include ‘Soronko’ (1988), ‘Highlife in the Air’ (1994), and ‘Ɛbɛtͻda’ (1998). His song ‘Odo Colour’ released in 2004 became very popular.

He also released 'Come to Africa' (2006) and 'No Weapon' (2019). In 2020, George Darko received a Lifetime Award at the Vodafone Ghana Music Awards for his contributions to Highlife.

Born on January 12th, 1951, Darko attended a Presbyterian school in Akropong. Initially aspiring to be a lawyer, he later pursued music instead. His son is German rapper Manuellsen.

George Darko was receiving palliative care at Tetteh Quarshie Memorial Hospital when he passed away on March 20th, 2024. He will be remembered for his exceptional guitar skills and influence on Ghanaian music globally. George Darko remains one of Ghana’s revered musical talents whose legacy will endure.