Teddy Osei, the legendary Ghanaian musician and founding member of the globally acclaimed Afro-pop band Osibisa, was laid to rest on Saturday, April 5, 2025, following final funeral rites at his family residence in Chiriapatre, Kumasi.

The burial mass took place at St. Peter’s Cathedral Basilica near Fante Newtown, where family, friends, and admirers gathered to honour the life and legacy of the musical icon.

Born Francis Kwabena Osei on December 17, 1935, Teddy Osei was widely celebrated for his mastery as a saxophonist, drummer, and vocalist.

He rose to international fame in 1969 when he founded Osibisa, a pioneering Afro-pop group whose fusion of African rhythms with rock, jazz, and funk captivated audiences across continents.

Among Osibisa’s most memorable songs are Woyaya (1971), featuring the iconic lyrics, “We are going… Heaven knows where we’re going… We know we will,” as well as Sunshine Day and Dance The Body Music.

Teddy Osei leaves behind his widow, Benedicta Adu-Poku, three daughters—Matilda, Agnes, and Shanta—as well as several grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

In an emotional tribute, Mrs. Benedicta Adu-Poku described her husband as a devoted partner whose love endured despite the demands of a globe-trotting music career.

“Today, I pay a glorious tribute to my dear husband, Kwabena Teddy Osei. As the Book of Romans clearly expresses, our love endures even though you are no longer with me.

Your song—‘We are going, heaven knows where we are going’—continues to echo in my heart,” she said.

She fondly recalled the cherished moments they spent together, adding, “If not on tour, he always made time for me, and those were very precious times together. I will carry your love with me always, until we meet again.”

Teddy Osei was born in Kumasi, the Ashanti Regional capital, to Michael Kyekyere and Josephine Kyekyere, both devout Roman Catholics.

The second of seven children, he was named after the historic Ashanti king, Osei Tutu I.

His father, an amateur musician who played the horn in the church band, introduced young Teddy to music. He learned to play traditional instruments under the guidance of a school teacher and later joined his school’s band as a bass drummer. He also frequented the Ashanti Palace, where he absorbed folk music performed by visiting artists.

After completing his basic education, Osei worked briefly as an office assistant before relocating to Sekondi to pursue craftsmanship.

Sekondi, then a vibrant cultural hub, exposed him to modern musical styles and influential artists.

During this time, he became a supporter of Dr. Kwame Nkrumah’s Convention People’s Party (CPP), backing the anti-colonial struggle.

After obtaining his degree, Osei returned to Kumasi and took up a job as a building inspector. However, his passion for music led him to choose a professional path in the industry.

He co-founded a semi-professional band called The Comets with his brother, the late Mac Tontoh, and a group of friends. The Comets gained popularity in Ghana, recorded with Philips West Africa, and performed on local radio.

Teddy Osei’s influence stretched far beyond Ghana’s borders. With Osibisa, he helped redefine African music on the world stage, blending indigenous sounds with international genres to create a vibrant and enduring legacy.

As Ghana bids farewell to one of its musical legends, Teddy Osei’s pioneering spirit and timeless melodies will continue to inspire generations of artists and music lovers around the globe.