Award-winning Ghanaian band Kwan Pa is gearing up to release their latest project, a musical drama film titled Sweet Palm Wine, which hits cinemas in Accra, Ghana, on October 26.
The movie centres on a family of three who return to their village due to financial difficulties in the city. It features Kwan Pa’s signature palm wine music, a unique blend of highlife, jazz, and traditional Ghanaian rhythms.
Kwan Pa, known for bringing palm wine music into the spotlight, has created a new soundtrack to accompany the film. The soundtrack, also titled Sweet Palm Wine, will be available on October 25, a day ahead of the movie premiere. It includes their popular EP Palm Wine Music and features nine tracks in the band’s distinctive style. The lyrics are in English, Twi, Ewe, and Ga, showcasing Ghana’s rich linguistic diversity. The album also features contributions from Kwan Pa leader Asah Nkansah and their producer Kojosteve.
“We wanted to create a musical journey that reflects Ghana’s vibrant culture and heritage,” said Asah Nkansah, Kwan Pa’s bandleader. “Sweet Palm Wine is a mix of drama, humour, and our palm wine music, telling a story of family resilience and love.”
Formed in 2016, Kwan Pa has become widely recognized in Ghana and across West Africa for their energetic palm wine music performances. They’ve performed on prestigious stages in Dubai, Moscow, and Qatar, and have won multiple awards, including Best Traditional Band in Ghana. They’re known for hits like “5 Days of Christmas,” “The Kontomire Song,” and “Felix Cannot Dance.”
The film Sweet Palm Wine is produced by Wahala Entertainment, Kwan Pa’s record label, and directed by Wael H. Hakim. The movie features a talented cast, including Fred Amugi, Pascaline Edwards, Aaron Adatsi, Willie Chambers, Ricky Kofi Adelayitar, and Rosa K.O. Mensah. The musical score blends Kwan Pa’s signature sound with original compositions created specifically for the film.
“We can’t wait to share this musical experience on the big screen,” said Wael H. Hakim, the film’s director. “Kwan Pa’s music is the heart and soul of this project, bringing joy and depth to the story.”
Sweet Palm Wine will premiere at Silver Bird Cinemas in Accra on October 26, with the soundtrack releasing digitally worldwide on October 25.