Ghanaian singer Adina Thembi has opened up about the roots of her deep connection to highlife music, revealing that her passion for the genre can be traced back to ebibinwom—a traditional style of Ghanaian music known for its rich cultural and spiritual expression.
According to the award-winning vocalist, her early exposure to ebibinwom, which is often associated with indigenous rhythms, storytelling, and moral teachings, played a significant role in shaping her musical identity. She explained that growing up around such authentic Ghanaian sounds helped her develop an appreciation for highlife, a genre that similarly draws from traditional rhythms and lived experiences.
Adina noted that ebibinwom is not just music but a form of expression that connects people to their roots, values, and community. This influence, she said, continues to reflect in her approach to songwriting and performance, where she blends contemporary sounds with traditional Ghanaian elements.
Highlife, widely regarded as one of Ghana’s most celebrated music genres, has evolved over the years but still maintains its cultural essence. For Adina, incorporating these indigenous influences into her music is both a tribute to her heritage and a way of preserving Ghanaian culture for future generations.
She added that her journey as an artist has always been guided by authenticity, and embracing the sounds she grew up with has allowed her to stay true to herself while appealing to a diverse audience.
Adina’s revelation highlights the enduring impact of traditional music forms like ebibinwom on modern Ghanaian artists, reinforcing the importance of cultural roots in shaping contemporary creativity.
