Artist, Roots Rock Reggae
Kwame Bediako performs original root’s rock reggae.
Musician/Poet Kwame Bediako credits his musical upbringing to his “elders” and the general environment of his home base in Ghana, West Africa, where his roots first blossomed. “There was drumming, and dancing, and of course singing,” says Kwame.
Kwame hits the stage and lets you know that the African Roots Ambassador has arrived. He sings of the joys and sorrows of humanity, never forgetting his humility. The band has performed throughout the USA sharing the bill with notables like Third World, Mutabaruka, Pato Banton, Sonny Ade, Wailing Souls, Sonny Okusun and many others. Kwame has been the recipient of many industry awards and honorable mentions including: Martin International’s Chicago Reggae Music Awards “Best Artist” and “Most Culture-Oriented Band”.
I feel education goes beyond the classroom. We bring culture to the people. We teach knowledge of the self.
To educate and entertain, Kwame incorporates his heritage into the performance. Kwame has the advantage of dual residency, which enables him to keep his finger on the vibrant pulse of reggae music here in the US and throughout the Diaspora. Kwame and Wan-Afrika are reflective of a universal harmony. Bringing people together through music.
Kwame has released three CDs:
Forward Ever (2013 – 2008) The release of our Special Edition CD ‘Forward Ever’ is now available for download on iTunes. Not just a re-print, these songs have been rerecorded and remixed over the last two years with the participation of some of reggae’s finest including Sidney Mills of Steel Pulse, Georges Kouakou of Alpha Blondy and Junior Marvin of the original Wailers.
A version of the classic Heptone’s “Book of Rules” is sung in his native language of Twi calling for a return to the source, while another song, One Man No Dub remains in hot circulation on Ghana radio and in other parts of the world.
In June of 2000, Kwame released How Sweet It Is. This critically acclaimed CD has been featured on WNUR, KCRW, WHPK, WLUW, and KRCL to name a few. Kwame’s current release O.A.U. features guest guitarist Junior Marvin of the Wailers.
Kwame Bediako is available for campus and community engagements throughout the United States.