The band Black Beats was formed by King Bruce(a trumpeter) and Saks Acquaye, a Tano saxophonist. The Black Beats were more focused on vocals in contrast to other Ghanaian bands at the time who played instrumental dance music and dominated the instrumental lineup. In 1961, some musicians left the band and a second generation of Black Beats was formed headed by Sammy Odoh this time. The name "Black Beats" reflected a heartfelt royalty to African rhythm and feeling.

King Bruce and the black beats was a Ghanian musical band who were more focused on vocals than instruments.