{"title":"Gyedu-Blay Ambolley","description":null,"products":[{"product_id":"simigwa-3","title":"Simigwa","description":"\u003cp\u003eStrut Records is proud to announce a new official reissue of Simigwa by Gyedu-Blay Ambolley, launching a series of releases on Strut celebrating the legendary Ghanaian label Essiebons. \u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eEssiebons, founded by Ghanaian music producer Dick Essilfie-Bondzie in 1959, is one of Ghana's most important independent labels featuring prominent artists such as Gyedu-Blay Ambolley, C.K. Mann, and Ebo Taylor. Ambolley’s Simigwa is a groundbreaking album, recognised as a Ghanaian classic and boasting one of the most iconic covers of the 1970s. Originally released in 1975, the album introduced Ambolley's unique \"Simigwa\" style, which combined highlife with funk and soul, influencing the evolution of a new generation of Ghanaian artists.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eThis new Strut LP reissue features an exclusive interview with Ambolley himself, offering fresh insights into the creation of this classic album.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e Gyedu-Blay Ambolley’s innovative fusion of highlife with influences from American soul and funk solidified his position as a key figure in Ghana’s vibrant 1970s music scene. His solo career followed work with iconic bands such as Houghas Extraordinaires, Meridians of Tema, Ghana Broadcasting Band and the Uhuru Dance Band. Inspired by the legendary James Brown, Simigwa delivers infectious rhythms, dynamic horn sections, bold vocal stabs, and mesmerising percussion breaks. An enduring classic for all fans of highlife and Afro-funk.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Strut","offers":[{"title":"Black LP","offer_id":51245589430603,"sku":"2243283","price":23.99,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0867\/1120\/6219\/files\/4cffa45b-4b75-d7af-f73b-6fb59d5a0ef6_10cef09d_thumbnail_4096.jpg?v=1739225513"},{"product_id":"wake-up-afrika","title":"Wake Up Afrika","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003eBorn in 1947 in the vibrant port city of Sekondi-Takoradi in western Ghana, Gyedu-Blay Ambolley's musical journey began with early influences from his father's military band flute playing and local highlife music. Ambolley's significance in the music world extends far beyond Ghana's borders. He is credited as the first musician from Ghana, and indeed the world, to formally incorporate rap forms into local highlife rhythms, creating a unique genre called Simigwa.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cspan\u003eThroughout his career, Ambolley has demonstrated a remarkable ability to blend diverse musical influences. His sound incorporates elements of traditional Ghanaian rhythms, American Jazz, Funk, and Soul, creating a rich tapestry of musical expression. During his time working with Agogo Records since 2017, Ambolley has continued to push boundaries and explore new musical territories.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Agogo Records","offers":[{"title":"LP - Black","offer_id":51700574486859,"sku":"R2863-6783","price":24.99,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0867\/1120\/6219\/files\/9e5efc1d-dc42-c6db-83e7-6d94a85d4ffe.jpg?v=1745511590"}],"url":"https:\/\/shop.roughtrade.com\/de\/collections\/gyedu-blay-ambolley-1.oembed","provider":"Rough Trade","version":"1.0","type":"link"}