Gyakie pays tribute to Ebo Taylor: “His music will live forever”

Ghanaian singer and songwriter Gyakie has spoken openly about her heartbreak following the death of Highlife legend Ebo Taylor, saying the news felt deeply personal and reminding her of how much his music shaped her life and career.

In an interview with Mark Wilberforce on Focus on Africa, the Forever hitmaker revealed she was overwhelmed with emotion when she heard of Taylor’s passing on February 7, 2026, at the age of 90.

Gyakie explained that Ebo Taylor’s songs were a constant presence in her childhood home, played regularly by her father through the family speakers. Those moments, she said, quietly influenced her love for music and helped shape her sound from a young age.

“I really felt this one because he’s been part of my childhood memories. My dad used to play his music when we were young,” she shared. “His songs were inclusive.”

Gyakie is the daughter of renowned Highlife musician Nana Acheampong.

Although she finds it painful that Taylor is no longer physically present, Gyakie believes his music keeps his spirit alive.

“When I heard he was no more, I felt very emotional and sad that we can’t see him in person again. But his music will live with us forever,” she said.

Ebo Taylor is widely celebrated as one of the pioneers of modern Highlife. From the 1960s onward, he developed a unique style that blended traditional Ghanaian rhythms with jazz, funk and Afrobeat. His expressive guitar work, powerful horn sections and meaningful lyrics helped redefine the genre and inspired generations of musicians across Africa and beyond.

Through his timeless recordings and collaborations, Taylor not only built a lasting legacy but also guided and influenced younger artists. His music continues to educate, inspire and connect listeners around the world.

For Gyakie and many others, Ebo Taylor’s impact goes beyond history books — it is personal, lasting, and deeply woven into the story of Ghanaian music.