Renowned Ghanaian DJ and media personality, Omari Akwasi Ayirebi, popularly known as DJ Blay, has voiced concerns over the absence of Highlife icon Ofori Amponsah from the music scene, calling for his return to the genre that once defined him.
Speaking on Agoo FM’s Showbiz show, hosted by Kobby Cutie on Saturday, DJ Blay emphasized the need for industry support to bring back Ofori Amponsah to his former glory. He described Amponsah as a vital asset to the Highlife genre, whose presence is deeply missed by music lovers.
DJ Blay acknowledged the dominance of Highlife legends such as Daddy Lumba, Kojo Antwi, Amakye Dede, and Nana Acheampong in the early 2000s but highlighted that Ofori Amponsah carved a unique niche for himself. He credited Amponsah and his team, which included KK Fosu, Baroski, Kofi Nti and producer Appietus, for shaping the evolution of modern Highlife music.
“Ofori Amponsah’s impact was so immense that the Ghana Music Awards had to introduce a new category to recognize his contributions,” DJ Blay stated.
When asked to name his favorite song from Ofori Amponsah’s extensive catalog, DJ Blay hesitated, requesting more time to decide since he genuinely loves all of them.
“When I appreciate an artist’s craft, I immerse myself in it completely, making it difficult to pick just one song from Ofori’s collection. It’s like asking me to choose my favorite Kwaadei song,” DJ Blay remarked.
The discussion took place during a special segment of Agoo Showbiz, where media personalities are celebrated for their influence on the entertainment industry. This week’s feature honored Ofori Amponsah for his role in shaping Ghana’s music landscape.
With the growing influence of Afrobeats and other genres, DJ Blay’s call for Amponsah’s return has sparked conversations among fans and industry stakeholders. Many hope to see the “Otoolege” hitmaker reclaim his place in Highlife music and revive the sound that once dominated the airwaves.
Ofori Amponsah began his music career in 1999 and rose to great success in the early 2000s. However, in 2013, he announced his decision to transition to gospel music, officially releasing a gospel album, The Gospel According to Ofori, in 2014. Along with his musical shift, he became a pastor and founded the Family of Faith and Love Ministries to spread the word of God.
Not long after, he made a surprising return to secular music, stating that he intended to save souls through his love songs. However, since his comeback, he has struggled to regain the level of relevance and dominance he once enjoyed in the Ghanaian music industry.
