Digging 4 Gold

Here’s a good example of some of the integration of Western influences into West African music.  The A-side is in typical highlife fashion, but the B-side offers a more adventurous number, equipped with swinging drums and a percussion breakdown.  

Prior to the originality that Joni Haastrup or Ambolley would eventually offer, soul aficionados in Africa would often imitate their musical inspirations.  It would not be uncommon to hear a cover band (or “copyright” band, as referred to in Ghana at the time) do a Wilson Pickett or Sam and Dave tune durring their live sets.  Ultimately, it was from this imitation that many found their voice, so to speak, and wound up becoming innovators in African music.  

Golden All Brothers 7’inch single