Bisa Kdei launches The Convention festival to celebrate highlife

Ghanaian highlife musician Bisa Kdei has announced the launch of ‘The Convention’, a new annual event designed to honor and preserve the country’s rich highlife music tradition. The inaugural edition of the festival is scheduled to take place on December 20, 2026, at the Underbridge Annex in East Legon, Accra. This initiative represents a significant effort by the artist to create a dedicated platform for one of Ghana's most iconic and enduring musical genres.

The event is specifically tailored to attract highlife enthusiasts and music lovers from both within Ghana and the diaspora during the busy end-of-year season. According to the organizers, the festival will feature a diverse program including live music performances, general entertainment, and curated cultural experiences. By establishing ‘The Convention’ as an annual fixture, Kdei aims to showcase the timeless sound of highlife and ensure its cultural significance remains at the forefront of the nation's artistic identity.

Bisa Kdei, who has been a prominent figure in the highlife scene for nearly 15 years, is leveraging his extensive industry experience to spearhead this project. His career has been largely defined by a commitment to the genre, and this festival serves as a formal extension of his dedication to its survival and growth. The event is positioned to become a staple in Ghana’s December entertainment calendar, offering a sophisticated space for the appreciation of Ghanaian heritage through song and performance.

As preparations begin for the 2026 debut, ‘The Convention’ is expected to foster a deeper appreciation for highlife among younger generations while celebrating the veteran musicians who paved the way. By choosing the Underbridge Annex as the venue, the organizers are preparing for a gathering that seeks to balance modern event production with traditional musical roots. This festival could potentially set a new standard for genre-specific celebrations in the West African region, ensuring highlife continues to thrive in a rapidly evolving global music market.