Legendary Ghanaian Highlife Musician Ebo Taylor Dies at 90

The world of African music is in mourning following the death of Ebo Taylor, the iconic Ghanaian highlife musician, guitarist, and composer, who passed away on Saturday, February 7, 2026, at the age of 90.

Taylor’s family confirmed the news on Sunday through his official Instagram page, though the cause of his death was not disclosed. The announcement read in part:

"The world has lost a giant. A colossus of African music. Ebo Taylor passed away yesterday; a day after the launch of Ebo Taylor Music Festival and exactly a month after his 90th birthday, leaving behind an unmatched artistry legacy. @ebo.taylor your light will never fade."

Widely regarded as a pioneer of modern Ghanaian music, Taylor’s career spanned over six decades, during which he masterfully blended traditional Ghanaian rhythms with jazz, funk, and soul, helping to shape the sound of highlife and Afrobeat music. He collaborated with legends such as Fela Kuti, and his music has been sampled by international stars including Usher and Kelly Rowland.

Tributes have poured in globally, with his son Kweku Taylor describing him as a “colossus of African music,” while Ghanaian President Nana Akufo-Addo’s spokesperson, Felix Kwakye Ofosu, called him a “legend” whose influence has resonated worldwide.

Opinion:
Ebo Taylor’s passing marks the end of an era in African music. His ability to innovate while staying true to Ghanaian musical roots created a bridge between generations and continents, inspiring countless musicians both locally and internationally.

Beyond technical skill, Taylor’s music carried cultural and emotional weight, telling stories of Ghanaian life with a universal appeal. In an age where music is often fleeting, his decades-long legacy reminds us of the power of artistry that transcends time.

While the world mourns, Taylor’s melodies, rhythms, and influence will continue to live on, serving as a guiding light for future generations of African musicians.