Afropop Worldwide

This Hip Deep edition, based on field work in Ghana, tells the story of how highlife turned into Afro-funk. Guitarist/composer/bandleader Ebo Taylor, at 77, is our principal guide, taking us to his hometown Saltpond to explore the roots of his complex sound, recounting his highlife years and his deep study of American jazz in London in the early '60s—all part of a remarkable mix. We also hear from Ghanaian Afro-funk pioneer Gyedu Blay Ambolley and other observers and veterans of this history. Among the figures who interweave this story are James Brown, West African soul man Geraldo Pino, and, of course, the creator of Nigerian Afrobeat (a variety of Afro-funk), Fela Anikulapo Kuti.