Veteran Ghanaian musician Gyedu-Blay Ambolley has shared insights into the origins of Simigwa, the highlife-jazz-funk fusion genre he created that has become a staple of African dance music.
Ambolley, who appeared on Kafui Dey’s show monitored by MyNewsGh, explained that the inspiration for Simigwa came from an unlikely source, a Liberian man in Takoradi known locally as Ara, who displayed unique rhythms and movements despite being mentally challenged.
Ambolley said, “The genesis of it came from a mad man. He was murmuring, and we just observed. That feeling and rhythm inspired us to create a dance and music that people couldn’t resist.”
The musician emphasized that Simigwa reflects his identity as the “son of a warrior,” a name and heritage that have guided his life and music.
Ambolley described how his early exposure to local bands in Takoradi, combined with influences from international artists like James Brown, Stevie Wonder, and Miles Davis, shaped his innovative style.
“I wanted my music not to be only local. I wanted it to resonate beyond Ghana. When we played in America, people could hear the jazz, the afro rhythms, the highlife, it all came together,” he said.
Ambolley recounted his early musical education, starting with drums and later guitar, highlighting how observational learning and mentorship from local musicians in his community fueled his creative development.
The artist stressed the importance of using one’s talents responsibly, saying, “Everybody has something to offer to the world. Mine is music, and it’s not just playing music but informing people through it.”
