R.I.P: Top 5 facts you should know about late Paapa Yankson

Here are top five unforgettable facts about the late Paapa Yankson.

We lost a cherished Ghanaian treasure over the past week when it was announced that Ghanaian highlife musician and producer Paapa Yankson had passed away.

The respected music veteran and "Okukuseku" hitmaker passed away Friday, July 21 at his residence in Dansoman, Accra. He was 73.

Paapa Yankson left a legacy that most Ghanaian Highlife artistes cannot achieve in their lifetime. His exceptional use of rhythm and rhyme with his soothing voice, Paapa Yankson successfully managed to creep into the hearts of Ghanaians with his hits songs like "Wiase Mu Nsem", "Show Your Love", "Wo Yere Anaa Wo Maame" and a plethora of danceable tunes.

Here are top five unforgettable facts about the late Paapa Yankson.

1. His music career debuted at a funeral

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Paapa Yankson was first discovered by C.K. Mann at Paapa Yankson’s mother’s funeral and C.K. was very impressed by his talent. He signed his very first musical contact with C.K. Mann and from there the rest is history.

2. He came from a musical background

 

Paapa Yankson's love for music did not conjure up itself out of thin air as he already had musical influences. Both parents were musicians, his father was a trumpeter with Apam Brass Band while his mother was part of the Methodist Church Group called Christ Little Band.

3. His parents never wanted him to sing

 

It's ironic how being from a musical background his parents would not approve of his son singing. However, fate had other plans in mind when his music career was revived after being dormant for some years when his old time music bandmate from the Carousel Seven recommended him to a proprietor. Paapa gladly accepted the offer and revived his passion for music.

4. His daring stunts

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Paapa Yanksons love for music transcended his very being. He did not allow his sickness keep him down and prevent him from doing what he loved best which is singing. He defied the odds and against the doctor's advisement performed at the Polo Grounds for the first edition of “Bottle and Bands” festival whilst in a wheel chair. He also bravely accepted a lifetime achievement award at the 2017 Vodafone Ghana Music Awards.

5. His numerous accolades

 

Paapa Yankson is one of the most decorated Highlife artistes in his time with VGMA’, Kokomba Award, Grand Medal of Ghana and has over 15 albums to his credit.

His service to the nation has been tremendous and his passion for his craft is a quality many must learn to embrace.

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