Teddy Osei: Legendary Ghanaian Musician and Osibisa Co-Founder Dies at 88
Teddy Osei, the celebrated co-founder of the iconic Ghanaian band Osibisa, has passed away at the age of 88.
The legendary musician’s death occurred in the early hours of Tuesday, January 14, 2025, in London.
According to Bessa Simons, the President of the Musicians Union of Ghana (MUSIGA), who confirmed the sad news to Accra-based Citi News, Osei’s passing is a tremendous loss to both the Ghanaian music industry and global music fans.
He also described Teddy Osei as one of Ghana’s greatest musical icons.
Born in Kumasi in December 1937, Osei’s musical journey began at a young age when he developed an interest in musical instruments.
His passion grew stronger when he took up the saxophone during his college years in Sekondi, after the original saxophonist in a band he had formed failed to attend rehearsals.
Self-taught, Osei refined his skills by playing along with jazz records, a practice that significantly influenced his artistry.
He later formed his first band, The Comets, which found moderate success.
In 1962, Osei received a government grant to study music and drama in London. However, due to political changes in Ghana, he had to leave the program after three years.
It was in London that Osei went on to co-found Osibisa in 1969, a group renowned for blending Afrobeat, highlife, and rock into a globally recognized sound.
