Asabea Cropper and Kenteman
Legendary music icons ? Asabea Cropper and Nene Agyeman, otherwise called Kenteman? will next month be honoured for their contributions towards fashion in Ghana.
This will take place at the 2019 edition of the Rhythms On Da Runway fashion show by KOD’s Nineteen57, scheduled for the Christiansburg Castle at Osu, Accra, on August 31.
The two have projected and promoted Ghana’s rich Kente in particular over the last 45 years. Asabea Cropper, who is also called Queen Asabea, has a lot of influences, including her famous headgears.
Indications are that celebrated radio and TV personality Akumaa Mama Zimbi learnt the usage of headgears from Queen Asabea.
Her brother Kenteman is also unique for always cladding in Kente cloth.
Both Queen Asabea and Kenteman started their music career at a tender age in Ghana. Kenteman was the spark to their musical interest and took piano lessons at the age of nine. He ultimately developed a love and passion for the bass guitar, which has become the signature influence in the Ghana highlife music they play.
Queen Asabea also learned to play piano, acoustic guitar and soprano saxophone. Under the advice and coaching of Kenteman, his sister Queen Asabea started singing. In the 70s, they both played for the famous Sweet Talks and Black Hustlers Band, showcasing their talent and unique musical style.
The brother and sister team made a lasting impact in music and set the stage for the wearing and promotion of the Kente cloth and the accessories in head wrap, beads, earrings, shoes, among others, which ultimately were referred to as ‘Asabea’ by those who did not know the real name of the cloth. It was their hit album in 1982 titled ‘Wamaya’ that gave them the rise and international recognition in the music industry and the international stage.
Queen Asabea worked at the front of their distinctive and unique highlife sound. Singing and playing the saxophone while Kenteman played the bass was the winning combination that has brought them a lofty and humble fame. Kenteman was the driving force in writing the music, as well as arranging and producing the songs sung by Queen Asabea. Behind the scenes, they worked and shared creative ideas which they practised to perfect. It was this commitment to music over four decades that has set them apart in the music industry, allowing them to tour and play around Africa and the world. They have played on many international stages, including the Olympics in Atlanta, Georgia. They have received recognition, honours and awards for their music and talent from the music industry and governments.
During the URTNA Awards, they were honoured as the’ Queen of Highlife Music’ and ‘King of Kente Music’. They were also conferred the title of ‘Cultural Ambassadors for Africa’ at the same awards programme.
Rhythms On Da Runway’s honour will be their latest achievement.
By Francis AddoÂ