The sounds of Ghana: Florence Adooni revolutionizes the high life!

The sounds of Ghana: Florence Adooni revolutionizes the high life!

Florence Adooni is a gospel singer from Bolgatanga, Ghana who has become a major force in contemporary African music in recent years. Her musical journey began in late 2013 when she sold her music at a local record store. There she met Max Weissenfeldt, a German musician and producer who lives in Ghana and was already familiar with Frafra recordings. This meeting should lay the foundation for their successful collaboration.

In 2016, Weissenfeldt organized a tour for Adooni and Frafra artist Guy One, spanning both West Africa and Europe. Adooni was hired as a singer for an album by Guy One in 2018. Her first collaboration with Max, the track “Mam Pe’ela Su’ure,” received an overwhelming response and marked the beginning of their intensive collaboration.

A unique sound

In 2021, Adooni and Weissenfeldt founded their own band named after her. Their debut album “A.O.E.I.U.” was released on Weissenfeldt's Philophon label and combines Frafra gospel, highlife and free jazz to create a unique soundscape. The album contains seven songs, most of which Weissenfeldt composed, inspired by the Sun Ra Arkestra. The title “A.O.E.I.U.” stands for “An Ordinary Exercise In Unity” and reflects the unifying power of music, which Weissenfeldt always emphasizes.

Adooni's signature voice and the joyful sound of Frafra music are presented on stages across Europe. Their title track “A. O. E. I. U.” is a central piece of the album and contains a spoken word section that addresses the profound meaning of music. The combination of traditional sounds and modern influences attracts the audience and creates an intoxicating atmosphere.

Cultural roots and artistic development

Adooni grew up in Kumasi and regularly visited Bolgatanga, where her family lives. Her musical roots go back to her parents, who were both active in music. Before dedicating herself fully to music, Adooni worked as a graphic designer. She also brings this versatility into her music by combining visual and sonic elements.

Kumasi's significant history in highlife music, dating back to the 19th century, forms the cultural background of their artistic endeavors. Adooni wants to continue traditional highlife music with her band and integrate it into the modern music scene. Not only does she play an active role in the Frafra gospel scene, but she also influences English-language music in innovative ways.

With their debut album “A.O.E.I.U.” Florence Adooni sets new standards and is increasingly perceived as an important voice in the international music landscape. Her influences and passion for music make her an emerging artist who touches people's hearts.

For more information about Florence Adooni's musical journey and her latest projects, both the taz as well as that Jazz Cafe interesting insights.