Entertainment of 2026-11-05
Today in History: A.B. Crentsil's final journey after giving Ghana 'Juliana' and 'Moses'
Ghanaian highlife lost one of its most distinctive voices in July 2022, but on November 5 of that year, the country gathered to bid farewell to a musician whose songs had become part of its cultural identity. Alfred Benjamin Crentsil, popularly known as A.B. Crentsil, was laid to rest following his death at the age of 79.
Four years on, his music remains a reminder of an era when highlife musicians commanded attention through storytelling, bold lyrics, memorable melodies and an unmistakable Ghanaian sound.
Born on January 15, 1943, in Prestea in the Western Region, Crentsil developed an interest in music while attending school. Although he initially trained as an electrician, following in his father's footsteps, his passion for music eventually took precedence.
His musical journey began with the Strollers Dance Band in Takoradi in 1968. He subsequently played with other groups, including the Lantics and El Dorados, before becoming one of the founding members of the influential Sweet Talks Band in the 1970s.
The group, which had Smart Nkansah, Jewel Ackah, Pope Flynn and other accomplished musicians among its members, became a major force in Ghana's highlife scene. Its performances at the Talk of the Town Hotel in Tema helped establish its reputation among music lovers.
Crentsil later formed his own Ahenfo Band in 1982, further cementing his place in the industry.
His musical catalogue included several enduring hits, among them Juliana, Moses, Atia, Devil, Papa Samo, Angelina, Ayen, Obi Baa Wiase and I Go Pay You Tomorrow.
Some of his songs became particularly popular for their unconventional storytelling, humour and daring lyrical content. Moses, for instance, attracted considerable attention for its provocative subject matter, while Juliana became one of the recognisable titles associated with his musical legacy.
Beyond his popularity in Ghana, Crentsil's work reached international audiences. He recorded and performed abroad and collaborated with musicians across different generations. He also worked with former Musicians Union of Ghana (MUSIGA) president Bice Osei Kuffour, popularly known as Obour, on the Best of the Lifes album.
By the time of his death, Crentsil had reportedly released 25 albums and received several honours, including the Fontomfrom Evergreen Award, presented to musicians with 15 to 20 years of continuous experience.
He died on Wednesday, July 13, 2022, at the Bank Hospital in Accra, following an illness. His death triggered an outpouring of tributes from musicians, entertainment industry figures and admirers who celebrated his contribution to Ghanaian music.
His final funeral rites were held at the Community 8 Park in Tema on November 5, 2022, with family members, industry colleagues, political figures and sympathisers in attendance. Former President John Mahama was among the dignitaries who paid their last respects. His remains were subsequently taken to Ewoyaa, near Saltpond in the Central Region, for burial.
Crentsil was survived by his wife, Elizabeth, and eight children.
Although his death brought an end to a remarkable musical journey, the songs he left behind continue to connect generations of highlife enthusiasts.
For a musician whose voice helped define an important chapter in Ghana's musical history, November 5 remains a day to remember not just his burial, but the extraordinary legacy of A.B. Crentsil.
EA
