Afrobeat Legend Ekow Alabi Savage Reimagines Highlife Classic with “Rekpete”

Legendary Ghanaian drummer, vocalist, and composer Ekow Alabi Savage has released “Rekpete,” a stunning reimagining of the Hedzoleh Soundz classic that celebrates Ghana’s golden age of highlife music. The track showcases Savage’s mastery as one of the foremost living interpreters of African rhythm at the drum set, leading his Berlin-based band The Rhythmers in a deep, percussion-driven arrangement featuring Sir Frank Karikari on lead vocals.
With a 50-year career spanning the crossroads of Afrobeat, roots reggae, and highlife, Ekow Alabi Savage brings an unparalleled depth of experience to “Rekpete.” The track pulses with joyful energy and hard-grooving rhythms that honor the original while creating something entirely fresh and contemporary.
The Rhythmers represent Savage’s latest chapter, bringing together a multicultural ensemble that includes vocalists Djatou Toure from Ivory Coast, Frank Karikari from Ghana, and Nick Morrison from USA/France. Together, they continue the Ghanaian tradition of blending indigenous West African rhythms with jazz, funk, and international pop influences.
“Rekpete” demonstrates why Savage is considered an unsung legend of African music. The release comes as part of Savage’s ongoing mission to preserve and evolve highlife music, building on previous acclaimed releases including ‘Return to Zion’ (2002), ‘Going for Gold’ (2007), and the recent ‘Dr. Afrodub’ (2024).
“Rekpete” is available now on all major streaming platforms.
Listen Here : open.spotify.com/track/47M6MULu