In a poignant farewell, Teddy Osei, the renowned saxophonist and cultural ambassador of Ghana, has left us, passing away on Tuesday at 88 in London. Celebrated for co-founding the ground-breaking Afro-rock band Osibisa, Osei was an influential force in the music scene whose creativity and innovative spirit transcended genres. A statement honoring his life emphasized that his contributions to music and culture will resonate forever, with heartfelt condolences pouring in from colleagues and admirers worldwide.

Osei was born on December 1, 1937, in Kumasi, Ghana, where his father's involvement in school bands sparked his passion for music. He honed his skills as a multi-instrumentalist and later moved to London in the early 1960s to study music and drama. Here, he formed the band Cat's Paw that deftly intertwined highlife rhythms with rock and soul. In 1969, his artistic journey reached new heights as he co-founded Osibisa, a name derived from the Fante term for "highlife."

Osibisa made waves with their unique blend of Afrocentric sounds, rock, jazz, funk, and soul, marking an essential milestone in bringing African music to the forefront of the global stage. They achieved significant success in the UK music charts with their singles like "Sunshine Day" and "Dance the Body Music," captivating audiences during extensive tours across Europe, Asia, and Africa. One landmark performance included the 1980 independence celebrations in Zimbabwe alongside musical legend Bob Marley.

Osei's commitment to bridging African music with global influences was evident in his desire to inspire an African identity in music, once stating his wish to transform the African music landscape. His assertion that “without Osibisa, there would have been no Fela Kuti” underscores his lasting impact. Reflecting on his legacy, he emphasized Osibisa as a source of confidence and pride for African artists.

The passing of Teddy Osei signifies not just the loss of a musical pioneer, but the closing of a vital chapter in the history of modern African music. His artistic contributions continue to shape the industry and inspire generations of musicians who follow in his footsteps.