"Hedzoleh ("freedom") Soundz was formed in Accra, Ghana in the late 1960's. Leader Stanley Todd Kwesi assembled a monster ensemble of musicians from the Ghana Arts Council, intending to form a new Afro-Rock group that would be more traditional & African in sound, and hopefully surpass Osibisa in popularity (alas it was not to be). Their original songs were based upon traditional Akan & Ewe music, and employed dark, organic sounding African-made drums instead of modern western congas/drum-kit."
They released their first LP on Blue Thumb in 1973. Many regard it as the finest African jazz-funk fusion album ever made, largely due to the brilliant merging of the band's own sounds with the trumpet of their guest soloist - Hugh Masekela. Indeed, some argue that this LP is also his best. Interestingly, Masekela was introduced to Hedzoleh by none other than Fela Kuti. Masekela worked with a primordial version of Hedzoleh as early as 1967, when they played at Monterey, so by 1973 they were familiar with each other's styles.
Drawing upon the rhythmic traditions of their native Ghana, Hedzoleh Soundz combines traditional African and contemporary western instrumentation. Their unique African sound blends songs in Ghananian languages with a style that has become known as "West African Highlife."
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Hedzoleh Soundz
Hedzoleh Soundz has released 13+ albums. Some of their notable releases include Ghana Special Highlife - Modern Highlife, Afro-Sounds, Ghanaian Blues 1967-76, Live At The Record Plant, 24th February, Line Up 02 (A Proper Sampler). Explore their complete discography on this page.
Some of Hedzoleh Soundz's most popular tracks include Rekpete, Edinya Benya, Yei Baa Gbe Wo, Hedzoleh!, Hearts Ne Kotoko. Listen to these songs and discover more from their extensive catalog.
"Hedzoleh ("freedom") Soundz was formed in Accra, Ghana in the late 1960's. Leader Stanley Todd Kwesi assembled a monster ensemble of musicians from the Ghana Arts Council, intending to form a new Afr... Read the full biography on this page.
You can find Hedzoleh Soundz vinyl records and merchandise on eBay. We feature a curated selection of vinyl releases and collectibles available for purchase.
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