King Ayisoba, one of Ghana’s outstanding contemporary traditional musicians, is appealing to government to declare May 12 every year Batakari/Kente Day to promote the products and create more employment for Ghanaians.

In an exclusive interview, the King of Kologo Music, who is staging a special concert on May 12 to mark his official entry unto the Ghanaian music scene, said it was about time Ghanaians gave value to their rich culture in order to boost the economy and improve upon their lives.

“We have Batakari, Kente and other beautiful costumes but we prefer other countries’ clothing to the destruction of our own; let’s patronize made-in Ghana products.”

“I have performed in many countries across the globe; I have staged concerts in Denmark, Germany, Italy and the US, among others, and this is the time for me to express appreciation to Ghanaians for supporting me over the years”, he said, adding that, “I want all of them to come in their numbers to witness this special show on May 12 at the National Theatre.”

Dubbed Ayisoba@15, the concert, put together by La Monde de Multimedia and supported by the Ministry of Chieftaincy and Culture, is to celebrate the achievements of the man whose Pidgin English/local language songs have become popular across the world. ‘Whole world’, ‘Modern Ghanaians’ and ‘I want to see you my father’ are some of his popular songs that both the young and old sing with ease.

King Ayisoba will be launching the newest of his works, “Don’t do the bad thing” at the show and as he put it, “ebe ye butubutu, kai kai kai.”

“Come in your Batakari or Kente to express your love for Ghana,” he declared as he reminded Ghanaians of the need to contribute to making Ghana a better place.

According Mr. Collins Obeng Agyare (aka Odehyie), a management member of the organizers, stated that the event is their way of promoting culture and encouraging musicians like King Ayisoba, who are raising the flag of Ghana high in the world.

He urged Ghanaians from all walks of life to come in their numbers to honour a national hero. “The fees are very moderate and artistes like Kwabena Kwabena, Okyeame Kwame and Kwaw Kesse (Abodam) would be performing along the King of Kologo Music.”

“Please try as much as you can to be in Batakari of Kente,” he pleaded.