Go Back

Paa Kow

First Name: 

Last Name: 

Stage Name: 

Country: 

Born: 

Primary Language: 

Other Languages: 

Bio

Paa Kow (pronounced Pa-ko) is a Ghanaian drummer and composer known for his unique Afro-Fusion sound that blends traditional African rhythms with jazz and roots music. Dubbed "Ghana's most artistic drummer" by Modern Ghana, he has toured internationally and shared stages with African and American luminaries. Paa Kow plays a custom, hand-carved, traditionally inspired Ghanaian drum set that is the only one of its kind in the world. He aims to spread the music and culture of his homeland through his Afro-Fusion Orchestra.

Discography

Albums³

AskNaN • AlbumTracks: 12

CookpotNaN • AlbumTracks: 13

Nkwa Na EhiaNaN • AlbumTracks: 15

Label

Record Label associated with Paa Kow - past and current.

Similar Artists

Beautiful NubiaNigeria |1968| Yoruba

Segun Akinlolu, known as Beautiful Nubia, is a Nigerian singer, songwriter, composer, and band leader. Inspired by Nigeria's traditional culture, he founded EniObanke in 1997 and released his debut album. EniObanke Music Festival, Nigeria's first folk and roots music festival, was initiated by his company. In 1998, Beautiful Nubia formed The Roots Renaissance Band, gaining fame with their third album, "Jangbalajugbu," featuring the hit track "Owuro L'Ojo." Despite piracy, the album sold over a million copies. With 14 more studio albums, Beautiful Nubia's music is didactic, philosophical, and moving, advocating for personal development and social justice. His unique style has received acclaim and reached international charts. Segun Akinlolu continues to captivate audiences with his passion and cultural wisdom.

Michael KiwanukaUganda |1987| English

Michael Kiwanuka is a British-Ugandan musician and singer-songwriter born to Ugandan parents who fled Idi Amin's regime. Raised in North London, he developed an early passion for music. His debut album, "Home Again," released in 2012, received widespread acclaim, earning him a nomination for the Mercury Prize, which he later won in 2020. Kiwanuka's distinctive voice and introspective lyrics have captivated audiences, leading to the creation of other remarkable albums such as "Love & Hate" in 2016 and "Kiwanuka" in 2019. Embracing classic soul and R&B influences from the 1960s and 70s, his music also incorporates a modern sensibility that resonates with today's listeners.

KorokoroUnited Kingdom |2001| English

Kokoroko (stylized in all-caps) is a London-based Afrobeat eight-piece.[1][2][3] In February 2019 they were named "ones to watch" by the Guardian, after their track 'Abusey Junction' garnered 23 million views on YouTube.[4] In August 2019 they performed at the Southbank Centre as part of Nile Rodgers' 'Meltdown' season.[5] In February 2020 they won 'Best Group' at the Urban Music Awards.[6] In September 2020 they played BBC Proms at the Royal Albert Hall. London’s Kokoroko released their first music in 2018. They started out playing Afrobeat, Highlife, and Jazz around the city, with the 8-piece band packed into small venues playing shows that often became full-blown parties. 
 They released their self-titled debut EP in 2019, featuring the much loved Abusey Junction - named after the street the song was born on in The Gambia 🇬🇲. The EP was followed by singles Carry Me Home and Baba Ayoola. They are currently working on their first album! 🌍 🚀 
 Trumpet – Sheila Maurice-Grey Alto Saxophone – Cassie Kinoshi Trombone – Richie Seivwright Percussion – Onome Edgeworth Guitar – Tobi Adenaike Keyboards – Yohan Kebede Bass - Duane Atherley Drums – Ayo Salawu

Manu DibangoCameroon |1933| French

Manu Dibango, born in Douala, Cameroon, was a revered musician, composer, and saxophonist who played a vital role in introducing African music to the global stage. Growing up in a diverse cultural environment, Dibango developed a distinct sound on the saxophone, blending Cameroonian rhythms with jazz, funk, and Afrobeat influences. In 1972, he gained international recognition with the release of "Soul Makossa," a chart-topping hit that propelled him to global fame. Dibango's music transcended boundaries, captivating audiences worldwide. His live performances showcased his exceptional talent and stage presence, leaving a lasting impact on listeners. Manu Dibango's legacy endures. Despite his passing on March 24, 2020, his unique sound and pioneering efforts continue to inspire and resonate with music lovers globally.

Oumou KouyateMali |1970| Bambara

Oumou Demba Kouyaté, better known by her real name Oumou Kouyaté, which doubles as stage name, is a celebrated Malian artist renowned for promoting Mali's music across various social media platforms. Her songs, including "Diaba Sira," "Tamba," "N'Gnonkônadan," and "Kognian," have garnered significant popularity within Mali.

Luis MoraisCape Verde |1935| Portuguese

Luís Morais was a Cape Verdean musician, songwriter, arranger and clarinetist who is considered one of the greatest musicians of Cape Verde. He was a pioneer of the first recordings made in Cape Verde, and learned to play and compose music in Dakar, Senegal before moving to Rotterdam, Netherlands and Lisbon, Portugal.

Tony AllenNigeria |1940| English

Although famous for drumming, Tony Allen was also a composer, and singer-songwriter. He began his career playing with highlife bands in Nigeria in the 1960s and later joined Fela Kuti's band, where he helped develop the style of music known as Afrobeat. Allen's complex polyrhythmic drumming was a key element of Afrobeat, and he went on to work with other musicians around the world. He passed away in 2020, but his legacy as one of the greatest drummers in the world lives on.

Noumoucounda CissokoSenegal |1920| French

Noumoucounda Cissoko, hailing from a prestigious Griot musical heritage in Senegal, is a highly skilled kora player, percussionist, and vocalist. His upbringing, with a famous kora-playing father and a vocalist mother, shaped his musical prowess and deep understanding of rhythm and melody. Collaborating with his brother, he innovatively fused the kora with diverse musical genres. After going solo, he joined Positive Black Soul in 1994, touring globally and collaborating with renowned artists. Noumoucounda embodies a contemporary urban griot, showcased in his debut album "Faling" (2012), which led to international travels. In 2017, he co-founded Karantaba Records, culminating in his 2019 release, "Noumoukan Wilila," addressing themes of development, education, and women's rights in Africa.