Highlife originated in Ghana in the early 20th century, blending traditional Akan music with Western instruments and jazz harmonies. The name comes from the 'high life' social events where the music was played.
Classic Highlife features melodic guitar lines, horn sections, and smooth vocal harmonies. Pioneers include E.T. Mensah, Osibisa, and Daddy Lumba. The genre spread to Nigeria, where it influenced artists like Rex Lawson and Oliver De Coque.
Modern Highlife has evolved through sub-genres: Gospel Highlife, Hiplife (Highlife + Hip-hop), and contemporary fusions with Afrobeats. It remains deeply influential — many Afrobeats chord progressions and melodic patterns trace back to Highlife.