Rama Blak: The Highlife Star Merging Tradition with Contemporary Sounds
Rama Blak, born Awura-Ama Agyapong, is a rising star in the Ghanaian Highlife music scene. Her journey into music started with a deep passion for the art form, and in 2018, she made a bold decision to share her voice with the world. Her debut single, Anansesem, introduced her to the music industry, earning her a following and giving her the confidence to pursue her musical career seriously.
Currently a PhD student in the Department of Music at the University of Ghana, Legon, Rama Blak is steadily building a strong brand in the music industry. In 2022, she featured on Highlife legend Kwame Brenya’s project Brenya Ne Barima, further solidifying her place in the Highlife music space.
Rama Blak is part of a new generation of artists championing the resurgence of authentic Highlife music. Reflecting on her journey, she said, “In 2018, I decided not to be afraid of my voice and to start singing. Many people have always told me I have an ‘old soul,’ which I don’t fully understand, but I’ve always loved traditional highlife music. That love pushed me into commercial music, and I’m excited to see everything falling into place."
An ethnomusicologist by training, Rama Blak has been involved with the University of Ghana Highlife Ensemble for years, showcasing her expertise in both performance and research. She now leads her own band, Vibe Tribe, which has played at events such as the Nsadwaase Music Festival.
Her unique sound blends indigenous Highlife with contemporary influences, a style she continues to develop through her academic work as a PhD student. Rama is committed to creating music that bridges the gap between tradition and modernity, drawing from her research interests in ethnomusicology.
Over the years, she has collaborated with several respected artists and bands, including Agya Osei Korankye, Atongo Zimba, the Legon Palmwine Band, and the Nkyinkyim Band. Rama Blak’s impressive discography includes hits like Heritage Series, My First Love, and Time No Dey. Earlier this year, she released Becoming Rama Blak (The Discography), a compilation of her songs since 2018.
Looking ahead, Rama Blak is set to release an EP early next year, marking another significant step in her promising career. With her blend of tradition and innovation, Rama Blak is certainly an artist to watch in the Highlife genre.
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