Stories and facts

Rex Omar, born Rex Owusu Marfo, is one of Ghana’s most celebrated highlife musicians.

He emerged onto the music scene in 1989 with his debut album Aware Pa, which featured the hit track Wodofo Ne Hwan?. His unique style quickly earned him recognition as a fresh voice in Ghana’s rich highlife tradition.

In 1992, Rex Omar joined forces with fellow musicians Nat Brew and Akosua Agyapong to form the iconic highlife supergroup Nakorex.

The group’s name was derived from the first letters of their names and symbolized a powerful collaboration within the genre. After the group disbanded, Omar continued his career as a solo artist, collaborating with notable musicians such as Sony Achiba.

His artistry gained international recognition when he was nominated for a Kora Award in 2004, followed by a nomination for Artiste of the Year at the 2005 Ghana Music Awards.

Beyond his music, Rex Omar has played a significant role in shaping the industry.

As head of the Ghana Music Rights Organisation (GHAMRO), he became a vocal advocate for copyright reform, successfully lobbying former President John Agyekum Kufuor to strengthen protections for Ghanaian musicians.

He has also consistently championed the safeguarding of Ghana’s music industry against overwhelming foreign influence.

In January 2020, Omar won a landmark copyright infringement lawsuit against Joy Industries, after the company used portions of his song Dada Di Da in an advertisement without his consent.

The High Court awarded him GH₵30,000 in costs and GH₵200,000 in damages.

Despite his contributions, his tenure at GHAMRO has not been without controversy, notably marked by public disputes with his former bandmate Akosua Agyapong over alleged financial mismanagement.

Over the years, Rex Omar has blessed the highlife scene with memorable songs that continue to resonate with audiences. Some of his hit tracks include Obi Do Ba, Abiba, Konkontey, Dada, Dangerous, and Mama.

Today, Rex Omar is remembered not just for his music, but for his fierce defense of Ghanaian musicians’ rights.

His voice still echoes across the music scene, and his journey lights the way for a new generation of artists who look up to him for inspiration.

Explore the life of Rex Omar below.