Award-winning Ghanaian singer and songwriter Abiana has announced a new cross-cultural music collaboration with international folk group Auļi, marking a creative meeting of artists from distinct musical traditions brought together through a shared commitment to soulful storytelling, emotional depth, and cultural respect.
The collaboration blends Abiana’s emotive vocals and performances in indigenous Ghanaian languages with Auli’s contemporary folk production, resulting in an intimate and reflective soundscape that foregrounds shared human values rather than commercial formulas. Rooted in sincerity and musical curiosity, the project reflects a growing movement of artist-led partnerships that prioritise authenticity, openness, and meaningful cultural exchange across borders.
Speaking on the collaboration, Abiana shared how the creative connection emerged naturally once the music began:
“Music speaks before words do. Once we entered that shared space, everything flowed. The arrangement beautifully challenged me and pulled something very honest out of me. That is where the real connection was born.”
The collaboration was initiated and facilitated by Apprise Music & Media as part of its ongoing mission to project Ghanaian artists to global opportunities while preserving cultural identity. Apprise Music connected with Auli at WOMEX and later introduced Abiana’s work to the group, recognising the potential for a respectful and resonant artistic exchange.
At the heart of the project is a traditional folk foundation. Abiana performs in Akan (Twi), Ga, and Ewe, drawing from orally preserved Ghanaian folk material associated with family, care, and community. These include Kaafo, a lullaby connected to childhood and nurturing, and Senyiwa Dedende, a folk narrative centred on family and communal bonds. These themes closely align with Auli’s own European folk traditions, creating a genuine dialogue between cultures rather than a forced fusion.
The accompanying music video mirrors the project’s reflective tone. Rather than relying on spectacle, it focuses on mood, expression, and storytelling, allowing the music and cultural exchange to lead the visual narrative. The video was filmed at Shai Hills Resource Reserve in Ghana, further grounding the collaboration in place and atmosphere.
This release forms part of Abiana’s continued commitment to meaningful collaborations that expand her artistic reach while remaining rooted in sincerity and cultural pride. Over the years, she has built a reputation for projects that resonate deeply with audiences both in Ghana and internationally.
The Abiana and Auli collaboration is available on all major digital streaming platforms, with the official music video now live on YouTube. Further updates, behind-the-scenes content, and performance highlights will be shared across Abiana’s official platforms.
Senyiwa De Dende – Auli & Abiana (Official Music Video)- Collaboration between the bagpipe and drum music group Auli from Latvia and the Ghanaian highlife singer Abiana. Video filmed at Shai Hills Resource Reserve, Ghana.
