Ghanaian musician James Mireku, the son of legendary gospel icon Elder Dr. Akwasi Mireku, has announced the release of his highly anticipated single Elijah, set for 5th September 2025. The track pays homage to Ghana’s timeless palm-wine (Kwaw) musical tradition while introducing it through a refreshing, contemporary lens that speaks to both old and new generations of listeners.
According to Mireku, the song is not just about entertainment but about connecting deeply with cultural roots. Elijah forms part of his upcoming album I Belong Here, a project that aims to preserve Ghana’s musical heritage while reimagining its role in the modern soundscape.
A Tribute Rooted in Tradition
Palm-wine music, also known locally as Kwaw, is one of Ghana’s earliest popular music forms, celebrated for its soothing guitar melodies, mellow rhythms, and socially conscious lyrics. Historically performed at gatherings where palm-wine was enjoyed, the genre has shaped the foundation of several contemporary Ghanaian sounds.
In Elijah, James Mireku draws inspiration from this rich tradition, while infusing modern production to appeal to a broader global audience. The track is led by the expressive bass artistry of Yarwood, accompanied by warm guitar textures and delicate percussion that blend to create a soulful and timeless atmosphere.
“Elijah is more than just a song. It is a conversation between heritage and modernity. Palm-wine music has such an organic warmth, and I wanted to celebrate that legacy while presenting it in a way that resonates with new listeners,” Mireku explained in an exclusive statement.
The Bass as Storyteller
What makes Elijah stand out is its elevation of the bass guitar as the central storyteller in the arrangement. Rather than playing a supporting role, the bass carries the emotion and narrative of the track, giving it depth and resonance.
“For me, this song is about respect — respect for where we come from and respect for the sounds that shaped our identity. The bass, in this case, is not just an instrument but a storyteller, carrying the weight of history and emotion,” Mireku said.
By doing so, he not only honors the traditional feel of palm-wine music but also redefines its role within contemporary arrangements.
A Family Legacy of Music
James Mireku’s dedication to preserving cultural heritage comes as no surprise, given his background. He is the son of Elder Dr. Akwasi Mireku, one of Ghana’s most celebrated gospel musicians, whose decades of ministry and music have influenced generations. Elder Mireku’s soulful style and deep-rooted spirituality have left an indelible mark on Ghana’s gospel music landscape, and James continues this legacy in his own unique way.
While his father dedicated his career to gospel ministry, James Mireku has chosen to explore both gospel and cultural roots music, creating a fusion that honors tradition while appealing to contemporary audiences. His versatility and boldness in experimenting with sound mark him out as a forward-thinking artist.
Celebration of Heritage
The announcement of Elijah comes at a time when there is renewed global interest in traditional African sounds. By fusing palm-wine elements with modern interpretation, Mireku seeks to ensure that Ghana’s cultural treasures are not forgotten.
At the heart of his upcoming album I Belong Here lies a simple message: identity and belonging. Through music, Mireku hopes to inspire young people to embrace their heritage with pride.
“Heritage is not just about the past; it’s about how we carry it into the future. I want my generation to know that these sounds are ours — they belong to us, and they are still relevant today,” he emphasized.
A Live Connection with Fans
Mireku has also demonstrated his commitment to celebrating Ghanaian artistry on stage. On 17th August 2025, during the Kofi Owusu Peprah Live concert held at the Cedar Assemblies of God Church, he joined other celebrated gospel acts in honoring Ghana’s vibrant music culture. On that night, he took time to highlight the importance of mentorship and openly celebrated artists like Joe Mettle, who has played a role in shaping the journey of rising stars.
This spirit of recognition and continuity aligns perfectly with the message behind Elijah — the passing on of legacy through collaboration, respect, and innovation.
Looking Ahead
With Elijah and the upcoming I Belong Here album, James Mireku is positioning himself as one of Ghana’s most exciting contemporary artists rooted in tradition. His ability to merge past and present offers a refreshing perspective in a music industry often dominated by fast-evolving trends.
For many fans, the release of Elijah will not just be about listening to a new song, but about experiencing a piece of Ghana’s history reimagined for today’s world.
As he prepares for the official release, James Mireku remains confident that the single will spark renewed appreciation for palm-wine music, both locally and internationally.
“I believe Elijah will remind us of who we are and also show the world the richness of Ghanaian artistry. It is my way of saying that our sounds are timeless, and they will continue to inspire generations to come,” he said.
Conclusion
Elijah stands as a bridge between heritage and innovation — a heartfelt tribute to Ghana’s palm-wine legacy and a bold step forward in redefining its relevance today. With its official release on 5th September 2025, the single is expected to resonate not only with lovers of Ghanaian traditional music but also with global audiences eager to discover authentic African sounds.
In honoring his roots while charting his own path, James Mireku is not only carrying on the legacy of his legendary father but also carving a new chapter in Ghana’s musical story — one that is deeply rooted, globally appealing, and unmistakably timeless.
