Knowing the untold life of Ben Brako, Ghana’s iconic highlife musician
Ben Brako, born Bernard George Kobena Brako on May 20, 1952, in Accra, Ghana, stands as a towering figure in the realm of Ghanaian Highlife music. A luminary who ascended to prominence in the mid- to late 1980s, Brako’s musical journey unfolded with the release of his groundbreaking solo studio album, “Baya,” in 1987—a production where he not only lent his soulful vocals but also showcased his prowess as a producer and songwriter.
Hailing from Gomoa but raised in Cape Coast Oguaa, Brako’s upbringing amidst seven siblings laid the foundation for a lifelong connection with music and entertainment. A prodigy who started captivating live audiences from as early as 1960, Brako’s enduring commitment to the stage echoes in his own words, stating he has “been performing ever since.”
In the realm of education, Brako’s journey is as diverse as his musical repertoire. His secondary education transpired at St. Augustine’s College in Cape Coast, setting the stage for intellectual pursuits. Armed with a Bachelor of Science degree in Agricultural Economics from the University of Ghana, Brako further enriched his academic profile with a BA (Hons) in Media Communication Studies from the University of East London in 1994.
Brako’s musical odyssey is punctuated by accolades, with his single “Shame and Scandal” achieving the pinnacle of success by topping the Global Music Charts at number 1. This triumph exemplifies not only his artistic brilliance but also his global impact within the music industry.
Beyond the stage and recording studio, Ben Brako’s significance extends to cultural advocacy and a steadfast commitment to preserving Ghana’s rich musical heritage. His multifaceted contributions have made him a revered Safohene in Gomoa Assin-Mampong, his native land, where he continues to be a cultural steward, intertwining his musical legacy with community leadership.
In essence, Ben Brako is more than a Highlife maestro; he is a cultural custodian, an academic achiever, and a symbol of musical excellence, seamlessly blending tradition with innovation in a harmonious melody that resonates across generations.
