Ghana has, for ages, been noted for its traditional music - from drumming to the fusion of African and Western rhythms, one genre of music that has stood tall over time was highlife.
In the 20th century, King Bruce was touted as a composer and arranger of black beats.
He was referred to by many as the pillar of Ghanaian music scene especially after he composed a song to welcome the arrival of Queen Elizabeth II and Prince Philip in 1961
On Thursday, November 12, 1961, Queen Elizabeth II and Prince Philip visited Ghana for the first time since Ghana gained independence through the first President of the Republic, Osagyefo Dr Kwame Nkrumah in 1957.
The song composed by King Bruce described how all 5 million Ghanaians were enthused and ready for the coming of the Queen and Prince of England.
It also depicted the love and affection Ghanaians had for Queen Elizabeth II.
However, Queen Elizabeth II died on Thursday, September 8, 2022, at Balmoral at the age of 96.
Below is the lyrics of the song composed by King Bruce
This is the day, five million Ghanaians will go gay
Queen Elizabeth and Prince Philip will be here that special day
We'll drink and dance the whole day and put on kente fine on that Thursday, 12th November 1959
Chorus
May God bless this fine Thursday when our Ghana will go gay, Queen Elizabeth we love you, Akwaaba awaa waa tu
Second verse
Seven long years we waited since coronation to Canada and then Nigeria she brought jubilation
Now hear the drummers thumping on the mighty fontonfrom
The Queen has come at last to Ghana from United Kingdom
Third verse
With one accord, we wish you welcome to Ghana
The people are rejoicing from Axim to Bolgatanga
From the leader, Dr. Nkrumah to the lowest in the land
We join this song of love we know you’ll understand.
