The Disco Dancer
Two things remain constant; change and the power of music. Music is one magical language that transcends race, class, gender, status and every other boundary. Throughout history, music has been presented in different genres and styles, serving different purposes and evoking different feelings and emotions within listeners. However, not all songs outlive their era or generation. Blast from the Past has been curated to celebrate Africa-Diasporan songs that will forever be immortalized.
This week we focus on the sensational Kiki Gyan. Originally from the Gold Coast, Kiki Gyan was a Ghanaian musician who redefined disco and funk within the ’70s. Kiki Gyan redefined the disco sound with his use of electrifying disco grooves, infectious futuristic rhythms, and catchy lyrics.
Gyan began his run at the age of fourteen when he joined the iconic band Osibisa as a keyboardist. He made his first appearance on Osibisa’s 1973 release entitled “Happy Children.” During his time with Osibisa, Gyan contributed as a writer to songs such as Welcome Home, Dance the Body, and Sunshine Day. Kiki Gyan played with Osibisa for a total of seven years before deciding to embark on a solo career.
Throughout his solo career, Gyan enjoyed success as a popular session musician as well as a solo artist. As a session musician, Kiki Gyan was ranked eighth in a poll of the greatest keyboardists in the world making him an in-demand session player in the top recording studios of London, during his peak.
Gyan went on to produce countless hits, that charted in the United States and in the UK. Kiki Gyan’s catalog consists of three albums, 2 EPS, and one compilation album.
Today we celebrate this icon figure in music not for his catalogue but his ability to crossover and bridge cultures. Prepare for the funky and rhythmic melodies from the ’70s as we head back to the disco.
This week the category is ” 24 Hours In The Disco.”
24 Hours in a Disco
Released as a single in the 70’s “24 Hours in a Disco”, is a disco classic. This hit song was featured on charts in the United States and the UK. Filled with elements from afro-pop, funk, and disco, 24 Hour in a Disco emphasizes the sounds and vibes within the classic era disco.
Disco Dancer
With Over 2 million views on Youtube, Disco Dancer was a bonified hit. Gyan seamlessly blends the elegant groove of the disco movement with elements of funky creating a psychedelic tune.
Pretty Pretty Girls
Pretty Pretty Girls is not your average Disco song. Gyan veered off course from typical disco sounds and textures to great a vibrant tune filled with upbeat melodies and electronic sound.
Sexy Dancer
Get ready to do the Sexy Dance with this energetic Disco track. Gyan will get you up on your feet with this jam-packed with undulating basses and intoxicating synths.
Loving You
Get lost in a psychedelic trance with this romantic uptempo vibe. Gyan skillfully infused the soulful qualities of R&B with the sleekness of Eurodisco. as he sings about his unwavering love.
Keep On Dancing
Keep on Dancing features a mid-tempo beat, lush strings, guitars and keys, and Gyan’s vocals exclaiming “Keep on Dancing.”
Disco Train
Prepare for the Disco Train. The production of this song showcases swirling strings, funky guitars, and head-bopping percussion. Disco Train is the perfect feel-good song to turn any day around.
Enjoy this selection of songs featured on Kiki Gyan’s 2012 Compilation.