Renowned highlife musician George Darko, often hailed as the “King of Burger Highlife,” has passed away. The news of his demise emerged in the early hours of Wednesday, March 20, 2024, although the cause of death has not yet been disclosed. His death comes as a profound loss to the Ghanaian music industry.
George Darko was born in Ghana and is a native of Akropong in the Eastern Region. His exceptional talent as a guitarist and vocalist brought tremendous transformation to Ghanaian highlife music in the early 1980s. 
The Akoo Te Brofo hitmaker’s journey into music began in his youth, where he initially immersed himself in traditional dancing and drumming. However, a casual encounter with a teacher who crafted his guitar sparked George Darko’s passion for the stringed instrument.
Inspired by the sounds of legendary Western bands such as The Beatles and The Rolling Stones, George Darko infused contemporary sensibilities into the rich collection of highlife music in Ghana.
In 1991, he was installed Tufuhene of the Akropong Traditional area, assuming the title Nana Yaw Ampem Darko I and in 2020, he was presented with the Lifetime Award at the Vodafone Ghana Music Awards for his contribution to highlife in Ghana
His debut solo cassette, The Reborn Avengers, showcased his innovative guitar techniques and quickly garnered acclaim.
His musical journey led him to Germany, where he played a pivotal role in forming the Bus Stop Band. As the group evolved, he emerged as its lead vocalist, contributing significantly to their success.
Following the band’s dissolution in 1988, Darko embarked on a solo career, captivating audiences with his electrifying performances.
Akoo Te Brofo, one of his popular songs, remains a timeless masterpiece. Other hit songs from Darko are Obi Abayewa, Odo Color, and Highlife Time.
George Darko’s contributions have been immortalized in compilations such as the revered Kings of Highlife album.