VI.BE

Nana Osei Twum Barima is a masterful musician, singer, percussionist, and dancer, deeply rooted in the rich musical traditions of Ghana. Born into a family of musicians, he inherited the spirit of rhythm and storytelling from his great-grandfather, making his musical journey a continuation of an ancestral legacy. From an early age, he was drawn to the seperewa, a Ghanaian harp-lute with a resonant, hypnotic sound. This instrument, revived by his great- grandfather and carried across the world by his uncle, became an extension of Nana’s own voice, a medium through which he channels history, culture, and emotion.

Nana Osei studied Ghanaian music and dance at the University of Education Winneba, Ghana, where he immersed himself in the intricate rhythms and melodies of his homeland. He later delved deeper into the traditional music and dances of the Akan people, refining his artistry and expanding his musical vocabulary. His expertise spans multiple instruments, including the delicate mbira (thumb piano), the thigh and water gourd (Adenkum and Densuom), the Ghanaian Giant bass (Prenpensiwa), bamboo percussion (Adweke), and an array of traditional drums. Each performance is an immersive experience, where sound and movement intertwine to transport audiences to the heart of West Africa’s musical heritage.

Now based in Ghent, Belgium, Nana Osei is shaping a vibrant artistic career, bringing the spirit of Ghanaian tradition to European audiences. His music is deeply rooted in Kundum, Akom, Palmwine, and Nwomkro, genres that pulse with history and spirituality. Through these influences, his compositions tell stories of ancestry, resilience, and community, bridging past and present with every note.

His collaborations within Belgium are numerous, including Dirk Brossé, Roland Van Campenhout , Osei Korankye , Lara Rosseel , Bruno Deneckere, Kyekyeku.

As the leader of Nana Osei Twum Barima & Band, he seamlessly blends the raw, organic sounds of traditional West African instruments with his clear, expressive voice, creating a musical landscape that is both deeply personal and universally resonant. His performances are magnetic, capturing the joy and intensity of Ghanaian music while offering a journey through time, memory, and emotion. 

Critics and audiences alike have been captivated by his talent. In the words of the jury of Cultuur Gent; "What a fantastic and exceptional talent! Not only does his music transport and move you, but his personality itself is enchanting. Light-hearted and joyful, yet profound and complete. With a story that takes you to undefined places and times, musically unforgettable." His ability to connect with listeners, regardless of background, makes him a unique force in contemporary traditional music.

Beyond the stage, Nana Osei sees himself as a cultural ambassador, dedicated to preserving and reviving Ghanaian musical traditions. He envisions himself as a footprint for the younger generation, ensuring that the legacy of seperewa and other indigenous instruments continues to thrive. His passion is not just about performance—it is about passing on knowledge, celebrating heritage, and keeping the heartbeat of Ghanaian music alive in a modern world.

With each song, each rhythm, and each dance, Nana Osei Twum Barima invites audiences into a world where music is more than sound—it is history, identity, and a bridge between generations. Whether performing in an intimate setting or on a grand stage, his music remains a heartfelt embrace, a reminder that the past lives on in the melodies of today.

Follow Nana Osei Twum Barima’s journey and music:

● Facebook: Nana Osei Twum Barima

● Instagram: @nanaoseitwumbarima

● YouTube: Nana Osei Twum Barima

● website: https://nanaoseitwumbarima.com