Legendary King of Burger Highlife Music, George Darko, Passes Away

Renowned Ghanaian musician and pioneer of Burger highlife music, George Darko, has sadly passed away. Darko, whose songs resonated across generations, was a prominent figure in Ghana’s music scene during the 1970s, 1980s, and 1990s.

Hailing from Ghana, Darko’s musical journey took him to Germany in the 1980s, where he continued to pursue his passion for highlife music. A multi-talented artist, he was celebrated for his prowess as a vocalist, guitarist, composer, and songwriter.

Despite initially performing solo, Darko’s magnetic stage presence consistently drew large audiences, with over one hundred attendees at his shows. His impact on the highlife genre during its peak years in the 1970s, 1980s, and 1990s was profound, earning him a dedicated following both locally and internationally.

One of Darko’s most notable songs, “Ako Te Brofo” (The Parrots Speak/Understand English), released in 1983, captivated audiences across Europe and Africa, solidifying his status as a musical luminary. His discography includes timeless classics such as ‘Kaakyire Nua’, ‘Obi Abayewa’, ‘Medo Menuanom’, ‘Mensei Da’, ‘MONI PALAVA’, ‘Prempremsiwa’, ‘Bire Bire’, and ‘Obi Abayewa’.

In addition to his musical achievements, Darko was deeply rooted in his community, eventually becoming a chief in one of the towns in Akuapem, Eastern Region, Ghana.