Cape Coast, Ghana — Ebo Taylor, a legendary figure in West African music, passed away at the age of 90, leaving behind a rich legacy as a guitarist, arranger, and singer-songwriter. Though widely celebrated in his home country, Taylor’s international recognition came later in life, particularly after he released his first globally distributed solo album, “Love and Death,” in 2010, at the age of 74.

Taylor’s music was a dynamic blend that drew on the traditional highlife sounds of Ghana, infusing them with elements of Afrobeat, funk, and jazz. This mix was evident in his performances, where he captivated audiences with a vibrant stage presence and intricate guitar work. In 2014, during a performance in London, he seamlessly transitioned between traditional praise songs and contemporary jazz-infused renditions, showcasing his ability to connect with both old and new musical styles.

In the years that followed, Taylor continued to evolve as an artist. He toured extensively across Europe, gaining further acclaim with albums like “Appia Kwa Bridge” in 2012 and “Yen Ara” in 2018, as well as reissues of his earlier work. These releases not only showcased his enduring talent but also introduced his music to a new generation of fans.

His final album, “Ebo Taylor JID022,” produced in collaboration with Adrian Younge and Ali Shaheed Muhammad for their label, Jazz is Dead, was completed despite the physical challenges he faced following a stroke in 2018. Although no longer able to play guitar, Taylor’s performances still resonated with U.S. audiences, affirming his enduring appeal.

Taylor’s influence extended to the global music scene, with several American R&B and hip-hop artists sampling his work. Usher incorporated Taylor’s song “Heaven” into his track “She Don’t Know,” while the Black Eyed Peas sampled “Odofo Nyi Akyiri Biara” for “Ring the Alarm.” These collaborations helped bridge cultural gaps and elevate Taylor’s music to broader audiences.

Born Delroy Taylor in Cape Coast, a city known for its historical significance, he honed his musical skills early on. His father, a schoolteacher and church organist, encouraged him to pursue music, leading Taylor to switch from piano to guitar during his schooling years. By the time Ghana gained independence in 1957, Taylor had begun to establish himself in the highlife scene, playing with notable bands like the Stargazers and the Broadway Dance Band.

In 1962, Taylor moved to London to further his studies in music. There, he absorbed classical European techniques while developing a fascination with jazz. This cross-cultural exposure informed his unique musical style, fostering a partnership with fellow musician Fela Kuti that would influence both their careers significantly.

After returning to Ghana in 1965, Taylor utilized his extensive training as a bandleader, arranger, and producer, collaborating with various bands and becoming a pivotal figure in Ghanaian music. His contributions helped define genres and shape the future of highlife, earning him a reputation that would last throughout his lifetime.

Known affectionately as Uncle Ebo, Taylor was also a family man, forming bonds with his children through music. He founded the Bonze Konkoma Band, featuring some of his sons, to continue his artistic legacy. Unfortunately, the family lost Ebo Jr. in 2022, but Taylor’s influence lives on through his surviving wife, Elina, and their 15 children.

With a career spanning decades and a style that evolved to reflect changing musical landscapes, Ebo Taylor’s impact on the world of music remains profound. His ability to blend traditional and contemporary sounds has solidified his status as one of the great innovators of African music.