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George Kwabena Adu (born 17 October 1981) is a Ghanaian musician, guitarist, and an accomplished construction technician. His name, Kwabena Kwabena depicts the two vocations he is presently in, first as Kwabena, the draftsman, and Kwabena, the contemporary highlife musician. He emerged after featuring on Kontihene’s 2004 hit, Esi and he featured Kontihene on his own debut hit, Aso.
Early life
For basic school, Kwabena attended Datus Complex in Bubuashie, Green Hill School in Achimota, and Aggrey Junior Secondary School. He further proceeded to St. Peters Secondary School in Nkwatia for secondary education.
He started playing the guitar in church at the age of 14 and he also led the church choir. He then started hanging around Hush Hush studios featuring on various songs. He got introduced to Hammer of the Last 2.
Career
His break through came in 2004 when he recorded is debut album ASO. Three of the songs were used in the soundtrack of Sparrow Productions’s The Perfect Picture. Some of his hits include Ka kyere me, Trodom, Adea waye me, Fakye me, and Me ne woa. In 2007, he released his second album, Dabi. Kwabena Kwabena has a strong passion for philanthropic work and believes in his Ghanaian environment. This passion spurred him on to set up the KwabenaKwabena Save A Life Foundation. Kwabena went on to achieve a number of local and international awards some of which include, the best vocal performance and the best songwriter.
His third album, Daakye, came out in 2013 which also had hit songs like Bue Kwan, Adult Music, Bye Bye, etc.
During an interview in 2023, he indicated he had returned to school to pursue a bachelor’s degree at the University of Professional Studies, Accra.
Personal Life & Controversies
Sexuality
Kwabena Kwabena’s fashion statements came under criticism with many alleging he was gay. He has since refuted all claims about his sexuality mentioning on different occasions that his unique sense of style has nothing to do with his sexuality.
In 2021, he discouraged Ghanaians from abusing gays, lesbians and queer individuals because their human rights need to be respected. He also mentioned that God loved everyone hence the need to spread that love to everyone.
Awards and Honors
Kwabena Kwabena, whose real name is George Kwabena Adu, is known for his contributions to the Ghanaian music industry, particularly in the Highlife and Afrobeat genres. He has gained recognition for his soulful voice and meaningful lyrics. Here are some of the awards and honors he has received:
1. Ghana Music Awards:
– Kwabena Kwabena has won several Ghana Music Awards, including awards for Best Male Vocal Performance and Song of the Year.
2. National Honors:
– In 2019, he was honored by the President of Ghana, Nana Akufo-Addo, with the title “Member of the Order of the Volta” (MV) for his contributions to the music industry and his support for various charitable causes.
3. MOGO Awards:
– Kwabena Kwabena has been recognized at the MOGO (Music of Ghanaian Origin) Awards, which celebrate musicians who promote the Ghanaian musical identity.
4. City People Entertainment Awards:
– He has received nominations and awards at the City People Entertainment Awards, which is a Nigerian awards ceremony recognizing outstanding contributions to the entertainment industry.
5. 4syte TV Music Video Awards:
– Kwabena Kwabena’s music videos have also earned recognition at the 4syte TV Music Video Awards.
6. International Performances:
– He has had the opportunity to perform on international stages and collaborate with artists from various countries, contributing to the global recognition of Ghanaian music.
Kwabena Kwabena’s career has spanned many years, and his music has resonated with audiences not only in Ghana but also across Africa and beyond. His contributions to the music industry and his dedication to charitable work have earned him a place of honor in Ghanaian culture.
