Ghanaian musician Atongo Zimba has opened up about his roots and how his grandmother’s influence shaped his musical journey.
In a revealing interview on Hitz FM, the “No Beer in Heaven” crooner traced his early inspiration to childhood days spent with his grandparents in Sakoti, a village in Bolgatanga.
According to Atongo, his grandmother introduced him to the kologo, a two-stringed traditional instrument that became his lifelong companion.
“I learned through my grandmother and grandfather. He used to practice with me when everyone left us in the house,” he recounted.
Growing up as a herdsman also gave him ample time to perfect his art. “When you follow cows, you sit under the trees and keep practicing. It was my classroom,” he said.
He explained that the music spirit runs in families and often skips generations. “I picked music from my grandmother. That’s why I believe my grandchildren will carry it too,” he noted.
Atongo also clarified a common misconception about northern Ghanaian culture, stating,
“There’s no tribe called Frafra. It’s just a greeting,‘Fara’ means welcome.”
Now 57, the folk icon says he’s grateful to still be making music and inspiring younger talents. “People still listen to us, and that’s what keeps me going,” he said.
