Ras Minano - 'Africa Osuyeii'

Review by Patrick Joseph & Staff

The W.A M. Awards celebrate the year’s most outstanding independent artists from around the world in multiple genres and categories. "Best Song" and "Best Album" nominations were based on Artistry, Musicianship, Originality, Professionalism, Diversity, and Excellence. W.A.M. stands for "We Are the Music Makers.' Ras Minano's "Africa Osuyeii" was the 2020 W.A.M. Award Winner for Best Song in the Reggae / World music category.

“Africa Osuyeii” opens with a drum and bell pattern that are woven together in a way that is timeless and exciting. When Minano’s vocals begin, there is an innate attraction to the “chant-like,” call and response nature of the music. Milano interacts with a beautiful vocal chorus and establishes a tone which is agreeable and enticing. When the full band enters, we are treated to a phenomenal sounding afro-beat rhythm section. Drums, percussion, guitar, bass, and electric keyboard create a hypnotic symphony.

A soulful tenor sax and a burning electric keyboard trade solos which stretch and evolve. This is punctuated occasionally by rhythmic band hits that keep the music moving forward. Several times during the track the band breaks down to percussion and vocals. This creates a huge energy swing that allows the groove to stay perfectly fresh.

One surprise in “Africa Osuyeii” is a “rock” sounding section which is later recalled. I love the unexpected dimension this section adds to the song. The listener is introduced to a new musical perspective which informs the previous and upcoming sections. Classic afro-beat arrangements meet artistic experimentations in this refreshing and uplifting song.

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For more information on Ras Minano, please visit his website.

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About Ras Minano

Coming from Ghana West Africa and founder of The Hope of Africa Band, Ras Minano, is recognized internationally as a renowned Reggae and Afrobeats artist.  A gifted artist, drummer, percussionist, singer, songwriter, composer and producer, Ras shares his talent and worldly visions openly through heart and music. His deeply honest, rich and earthy lyrics, infectious beats and uplifting rhythms have captivated audiences worldwide. A humble warrior, Ras shares messages of truth and love with powerful and thought provoking lyrics to give hope to the world through his music and spiritual wisdom.

Born Richard Ekow Minano, Ras became widely known as `Baahey Otte’ meaning `The Prophet’ during his years living in the ghettos of Accra, Ghana, West Africa. Surrounded by poverty, Ras manifest an unyielding belief in Jah Rastafari and a profound love for humanity that attracted people to him for wisdom, guidance & leadership. From drumming in church as a young boy, Ras has gone on to dedicate his life to music and drumming, using his gift as a tool for the development, inner connection and healing for humankind.

In 2006, Ras Minano formed The Hope of Africa Band with a vision of collective empowerment to raise consciousness and give hope for humanity. He shared this vision by inviting other talented Ghanaian musicians to join him. Together they performed at beach resorts throughout Accra captivating audiences. Momentum and popularity for the band grew and The Hope of Africa Band received regular invitations to perform at many high profile events notably, the highly acclaimed 2012 Ghana Peace Concert where, the single, ‘Stop the War’ was released receiving a standing ovation.

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