Ata Kak

Throughout the early 90s, Ata Kak , the Ghanaian artist behind the cult classic Obaa Sima, made music that went largely unnoticed. Born as Yaw-Atta-Owusu in Kumasi, Ghana, he created a unique mix of highlife, hip-hop, and funk , using the basic synths and drum machines he had at his disposal. Obaa Sima, originally released as a cassette in 1994, is a playful combination of rap in the local Twi language, lo-fi beats, and Afro-futuristic flair – delivered with pure passion and the DIY charm of early Chicago house. In 2002, Brian Shimkovitz found the tape in the Ghanese Cape Coast and posted the title track on his Awesome Tapes Of Africa blog. The internet exploded. Obaa Sima generated hundreds of thousands of YouTube views, and an enthusiastic search for the mysterious artist behind the cult hit began on forums and blogs. As a result, Ata Kak , in his late fifties, was able to tour for the first time, playing festivals like Roskilde and Glastonbury, where he could bring his infectious energy and sound live to an exuberant audience. His late recognition as a pioneer of Twi rap is one of the most successful and heartwarming stories in internet culture. Ata Kak , now in his mid-60s, continues to make music and tour. In June, he will be joining as support for Big Thief. There was still a gap in his tour schedule that he is happy to come and fill in Cactus Café!