Emerging from Ghana’s vibrant music scene, Y-Bayani & Baby Naa and The Band of Enlightenment, Reason & Love are redefining reggae with a distinctly African soul. Hailing from Kumasi, the historic epicenter of Highlife, the group blends deep-rooted West African influences with the timeless groove of reggae, creating a sound that is both nostalgic and forward-thinking.
The project was conceived by Max Weissenfeldt, founder of the Philophon label, who discovered Y-Bayani and Baby Naa on his musical explorations in Ghana. Recognizing their natural talent, he brought together The Band of Enlightenment, Reason & Love, an ensemble of some of Ghana’s finest musicians, to bring their vision to life.
Their debut album, “Nsie Nsie” (Philophon, 2020), was a revelation—a cinematic, retro-futuristic take on reggae. It seamlessly weaves together soaring synthesizers, intricate horn arrangements, deep bass grooves, and the commanding pulse of traditional percussion. At its core, Y-Bayani’s soulful voice and Baby Naa’s uplifting presence breathe warmth and authenticity into every track. The album was met with critical acclaim, drawing comparisons to the golden era of reggae while introducing a fresh, Afrocentric perspective.
Now, the band is taking their electrifying energy to the stage. As a seven-piece powerhouse, Y-Bayani & Baby Naa and The Band of Enlightenment, Reason & Love deliver an immersive live experience—one that transcends borders and generations. Rooted in the spiritual depth of reggae, infused with Highlife’s golden melodies, and powered by an undeniable groove, their performances are a celebration of African rhythm and conscious music.
With a growing international following and a reputation for delivering hypnotic, high-energy sets, Y-Bayani & Baby Naa are poised to become one of the most exciting voices in global reggae today.