The world of music has lost one of its most rhythmic heartbeats. On Saturday, February 7, 2026, Ebo Taylor the legendary Ghanaian guitarist, composer, and bandleader—passed away at age 90. He leaves behind a six-decade legacy that moved the very soul of West Africa.
His passing feels like a scene from a poignant film. It occurred just one day after the launch of a music festival established in his honor in Accra. Furthermore, it happened only a month after his milestone 90th birthday. If highlife were a building, Ebo Taylor would be the foundation, the roof, and the intricately carved front door.
A Colossus of African Music: The Global Outpouring
As news of his passing spread, tributes poured in from every corner of the globe. From the streets of Lagos to the studios of Los Angeles, the sentiment was unanimous: a giant has fallen. An official statement described him as a “colossus of African music.” It reminds us that while the man has moved on, his light remains unextinguished.
The Voices of a Global Community
- Jazz Is Dead (Los Angeles): The collective hailed him as a pioneer who bridged traditional rhythms and global jazz.
- Stonebwoy (Ghana): The dancehall star recognized Taylor as a mentor and a “library of sounds” for the younger generation.
- Adrian Younge (USA): This producer acknowledged Taylor’s influence on the textures of modern hip-hop.
- Dami Ajayi (Nigeria): The poet aptly dubbed him a “highlife maestro” with foundational guitar lines.
The Architect of Modern Highlife
To understand Ebo Taylor, you must understand Highlife. This genre is a vibrant cocktail of traditional African rhythms, jazz, and Caribbean influences. It is the sound of celebration, independence, and cultural identity. Recently, UNESCO added Highlife to its Intangible Cultural Heritage list. Taylor’s career undoubtedly helped justify this move.
Born in Cape Coast in 1936, his journey began in the 1950s. At that time, Ghana was on the cusp of independence. Taylor was right there, guitar in hand, playing with iconic groups like the Stargazers. His intricate guitar work and rich horn arrangements became the gold standard for West African music.
London Calling: The Fela Kuti Connection
In the early 1960s, Taylor moved to London to study at the Eric Gilder School of Music. In the smoky jazz clubs of London, he crossed paths with another young African musician: Fela Kuti.
The creative exchange between these two was explosive. They were revolutionaries. They blended the deep grooves of highlife with American funk, soul, and jazz. This melting pot of ideas became the blueprint for Afrobeat. While Fela became the face of the movement, Taylor was the master architect. He refined the arrangements and ensured the guitar remained the heartbeat of the sound.
“Uncle Ebo”: The Mentor and Producer
When he returned to Ghana, Taylor became the country’s most sought-after producer and arranger. He worked with legends like Pat Thomas and CK Mann. Together, they crafted the “golden age” of Ghanaian music.
Known affectionately as “Uncle Ebo,” his mentorship was his true second act. He was a gateway for younger artists. He encouraged them to look at their roots while reaching for the future. His signature style—interlocking guitar riffs and lush horn sections—became a textbook for modern soul and jazz.
The Global Renaissance: Reissues and Hip-Hop
Most artists see their influence fade in their later years. However, Ebo Taylor did the opposite. In his 70s and 80s, he experienced a massive international renaissance. This was fueled by a new generation of “crate-diggers” and collectors.
Why Ebo Taylor Trended in the 21st Century
- Classic Reissues: Record labels reintroduced hits like “Love & Death” and “Heaven” to a global audience.
- Sampling Culture: His deep, funky grooves were a goldmine for hip-hop and R&B producers.
- Late-Career Touring: Taylor did not retire quietly. He spent his 80s performing across Europe and the United States. Younger fans flocked to see the authenticity of a man who lived the rhythm.
Conclusion: The Light That Never Fades
Ebo Taylor’s passing marks the end of a legendary era. However, his “Uncle Ebo” persona ensures that his lessons remain. We are reminded that he was more than a musician; he was a historian of rhythm.
His light shines through every guitar riff in Ghana and every Afrobeat track on the global charts. Ebo Taylor did not just play for his time; he played for the future. As the final chord of his life rings out, the vibration will be felt for generations.
Rest in Power, Uncle Ebo.
