Dignitaries in a photograph
A new global campaign to promote Ghana’s iconic Highlife music has officially begun in Paris, France, with a well-attended Masterclass that celebrated the history and influence of the genre.
The “HighLife To The World” (H2TW) initiative was launched at La Communale de Saint-Ouen in Paris. It follows the inscription of Ghana’s Highlife music and dance on the UNESCO Representative List of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity.
Organised by the Musicians Union of Ghana (MUSIGA) in partnership with BenayaCon Promotions and ShowBiz Africa, the campaign aims to preserve, promote, and introduce Highlife to new audiences across the world.
The Paris event attracted music lovers, cultural enthusiasts, members of the Ghanaian diaspora, and international guests. Ghana’s Ambassador to France, Mavis Ama Frimpong, was also present to show diplomatic support.
Speaking at the launch, MUSIGA President Bessa Simons described Highlife as “Ghana’s musical heartbeat.”
“By taking it to the world, we honour our past, educate new audiences, and create future opportunities for our artistes,” he said.
The campaign has the backing of key institutions including the Ministry of Tourism, Arts and Culture, Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Ghana Tourism Authority, Creative Arts Agency, and the Black Star Secretariat. Officials say Highlife can boost Ghana’s cultural diplomacy, tourism, and opportunities for musicians.
The Masterclass offered participants practical lessons on Highlife’s origins, composition, guitar techniques, rhythms, and instrumentation. Facilitators included Bessa Simons, legendary guitarist George Spratz, and James Tamakloe. Attendees traced the genre’s journey from Ghana’s coastal communities to its influence on West African music and modern Afrobeat.
Many European participants and diaspora members called for more Highlife workshops and concerts in France and beyond.