In a heartfelt and inspiring interview on Sompa Delight with Abena, host Abena Ruthy sat down with legendary gospel musician Abaawa Connie, known in private life as Confort Afia Owusua Adu. Her story is one of resilience, divine calling, and unwavering dedication to music and ministry.
A Humble Beginning with a Powerful Voice

Born Confort Afia Owusua Adu, Abaawa Connie hails from Asante Kumawu and Ahafo Mbem, places deeply rooted in Ghanaian culture and tradition. Her journey into music began in 1967 when she moved to Accra with her mother—a decision that would shape her destiny.

While living at Bethany Church under Bishop Blankson, her passion for music was ignited. Surrounded by a singing band, she developed a keen ear for sound and harmony. In a bold move that revealed her confidence even at a young age, she approached the group and expressed her desire to sing—pointing out their struggles with pitch.

She soon became the youngest member of the group, marking the beginning of a lifelong musical journey.

Finding Purpose Through Ministry

In the 1970s, while living at Asylum Down, Abaawa Connie joined the Divine Revelation Church alongside two friends. Once again, her passion led her to the altar—not just as a worshipper, but as a minister in song.

She founded the Joyful Soul Singers, which later evolved into the Born Again Gospel Band—a group that would go on to leave a lasting mark on Ghana’s gospel music scene.

Working with notable names such as Anokye Toko, Mary Glover, Ahmedson, Philip, and Sofo Asante, the group achieved their first major breakthrough in the 1980s with the hit song “Kom Na Ma Ye.”

Rising to Stardom

After years of group success, Abaawa Connie took a bold step in 1989 to pursue a solo career. Though the journey was not without challenges, her perseverance paid off.

Her defining moment came in 1996 when she joined Despite Music Productions, a move that propelled her into the national spotlight.

By the year 2000, she released her iconic hit song “Yere Twen Wo,” a track that resonated deeply with audiences and cemented her place as a household name in Ghanaian gospel music.

With over 20 albums to her credit, Abaawa Connie’s voice has become a symbol of faith, hope, and spiritual upliftment.

Beyond Music: A Woman of Enterprise

In addition to her music career, Abaawa Connie is also a successful entrepreneur, specializing in African wear. Her business reflects her deep connection to culture and identity, extending her influence beyond the stage into everyday life.

Challenges in the Industry

Despite her success, Abaawa Connie did not shy away from addressing the challenges within Ghana’s music industry.

She highlighted persistent issues such as:

Inadequate royalty systems

Unauthorized reproduction and distribution of music

These challenges, she noted, continue to affect many artists, limiting the rewards of their hard work and creativity.

Family and Legacy

Beyond the spotlight, Abaawa Connie is a wife and mother of two, balancing family life with her calling in music and business.

Her journey is not just a story of success, but a legacy of faith, courage, and determination—a testament to what can be achieved through persistence and purpose.

A Voice That Still Inspires

Through her conversation with Abena Ruthy, Abaawa Connie reminded listeners that greatness is not accidental—it is built through bold steps, resilience, and unwavering belief in one’s gift.

From a young girl correcting pitch in a church band to a gospel icon with decades of influence, her story continues to inspire a new generation of musicians and dreamers across Ghana and beyond.

Her voice may have started in a small church, but today, it echoes across generations—proving that true talent, when guided by purpose, can never be silenced.

Sompaonline.com/Editorial Desk