VIDEO: Terry Bonchaka: 15 Years On

It’s been 15 years since Ghanaian musician Terry Bonchaka died. Born Terry Nii Okang Mensah Adjetey, Terry Bonchaka died on October 29, 2003, in a car accident while returning from a show at the University of Ghana.

Bonchaka, 21, died on the Legon-Madina road when the vehicle in which he was riding with a friend after performing at the Akuafo Hall Celebration, suddenly veered off the road and hit a tree.

He got his big break in the Miss Ghana Hiplife Amateur Competition and went on to win the regional competition before taking home the title of Hiplife Champion 2001 in the final round. 

Bonchaka stood out for his unique voice, his dress sense and a dance routine which saw him lift one leg in his palm anytime he performed. During the short time that he captivated Ghanaian music lovers he released his songs including; ‘Puulele,’ ‘Zoozey,’ ‘Ghana Ladies,’ ‘I’m Aware,’ Ghana Ladies’ and ‘Asem Ben Ni’.

He also influenced some Ghanaian musicians including dancehall artiste Shatta Wale and Afro-beats star King Ayisoba.

In August this year, Shatta said Bonchaka was the one person he would love to bring back from the dead if given the chance.

“Terry Bonchaka is one person I would love to bring back if I had the chance. I loved his style. From time to time, myself and boys visit his grave. We want Ghanaians to remember his legacy. He is on the #ReignALBUM,” he said in an interview on Citi FM.

RIP Terry Bonchaka

(1982 – October 29, 2003).

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