Highlife is our identity as Ghanaians – Kelvyn Boy

Ghanaian singer Kelvyn Boy has stressed the importance of preserving Highlife music, describing it as a key part of Ghana’s identity.

Speaking in an interview on YFM on May 7, 2026, the musician said that although the sound of Highlife has evolved over the years, modern artistes must still incorporate elements of the genre into their music.

“I feel like Highlife is us. That’s our identity,” he said.

According to Kelvyn Boy, today’s generation may not fully connect with the traditional style of Highlife music, making it necessary for artistes to modernise the sound while maintaining its essence.

“Inasmuch as we can’t make it sound like how it used to be, we should at least have something that reminds us of Highlife in there,” he stated.

'Church isn't attractive to me anymore' — Kelvyn Boy

The singer noted that contemporary musicians can still create Highlife-inspired music in a way that appeals to younger audiences.

“We can actually do Highlife, but we can’t do it as it was. These Gen Zs wouldn’t really like the vibe,” he shared.

Kelvyn Boy further added that preserving the essence of Highlife does not require copying the old style entirely.

“We can do it in our own way, so you just have to let something remind you of Highlife in there and that’s all it takes,” he added.

FG/EB

TGMA Countdown: Team Kweku Smoke on nominations, venue issues