Fusing indigenous rhythms and melodies with Western instruments and influence, Highlife is one of West Africa’s most cherished and essential genres of music. Originating in Ghana in the early 20th century, Highlife later spread to Nigeria, thriving in both countries in the mid-1900s and undergoing significant sonic changes, particularly by the Igbo people of Southeastern Nigeria. For young Nigerians, Highlife music brings about memories of tropical good times sitting under a palm tree, drinking palm wine, and easing through lighthearted conversations with close friends and family.
In recent times, Afrobeats, hip-hop, and Afrofusion have dominated the Nigerian music scene. These relatively new sounds, and other older genres like Fuji and Juju, have pushed Highlife to the backseat as younger generations are opting for more upbeat and modern sounds.