The legendary lead singer of Uppers International Life Band, Apostle Nathaniel Awuni, known for the hit songs “Afarigan Wooyi Basiya Ti Nongeya Taaba” and “Bagre,” has shared how his music career has been a divine journey that has opened doors for him and many others from Ghana.
In an exclusive interview on the “Word Community Watch Show” with interim host Akoose Atubila Daniel on January 10, 2025, at Word FM Zuarungu in the Upper East Region, Awuni recounted his journey through music. He stated that he has performed at countless international shows, meeting various presidents, kings, and statesmen across the globe.
Awuni highlighted the impact of music on his life, stating, “Music has paved the way for me to meet influential figures from Ghana, Burkina Faso, Côte d’Ivoire, Nigeria, Niger, and the United States.” He mentioned encounters with prominent leaders such as H.E. Thomas Sankara of Burkina Faso, H.E. Bill Clinton of the United States, and Ghana’s H.E. Jerry John Rawlings.
Having moved from the Upper East of Ghana to Chicago, USA, over 26 years ago, Awuni reflected on how God has blessed his career. “Even popular artists in the USA could not deter me from my music,” he explained. This journey led to the formation of the “Dansika Band” in the USA, which showcases the unique sounds of Frafra instruments from Ghana.
Awuni returned to Ghana and recruited musicians to join the Dansika Band, which gained fame in the early 2000s. The band’s remarkable talent caught the attention of the then-President of the USA, who invited them to perform at the White House multiple times. As a result, Awuni mentioned, “Over ten people whom I helped from the music band have since built better lives in America and are thriving in various fields.”
His wife, Mrs. Nathaniel shared their love story and the challenges they faced during their early years of marriage. At a time without phones or WhatsApp, communication was limited to letters or messages through long-distance drivers. Despite scepticism about their fidelity, they proved their commitment. “We didn’t date long—just about 46 days—yet here we are celebrating our 46th wedding anniversary,” she said.
She advised young couples that the longevity of a marriage is not determined by the length of dating but by mutual respect and cherishing each other’s differences. “Respect and proper communication are paramount in a successful marriage,” she emphasized.
They cautioned against running home to parents during misunderstandings, as this could lead to a silent divorce over time. Awuni’s return to the airwaves after two decades brought indescribable joy to listeners, some of whom thought he was no longer alive. Fans rushed to the studio to greet him, and many called for an event or monument in his honor, as well as for him to mentor younger generations in music production.
Source: mywordfmonline.com/Akoose Atubila Daniel