The track was composed by former guitarist Oscar Jerome while the band was visiting a compound in Gambia. Inspired by the local soundscapes, Jerome wrote the hauntingly beautiful guitar melody on a rooftop, capturing a sense of calm and spiritual reflection.
Led by trumpeter Sheila Maurice-Grey, Kokoroko (meaning "be strong" in Urhobo) uses "Abusey Junction" to showcase their signature sound: a mix of West African roots and inner London influences. The track's minimalist beginning—delicate guitar picking and somber percussion—gradually builds with the addition of the band's powerful, all-female horn section. kokoroko abusey junction mp3 download
"Abusey Junction" by the London-based septet is a cornerstone of the modern UK jazz scene, blending Afrobeat, highlife, and soulful jazz into a track that has resonated globally. Released in early 2018 as part of the compilation We Out Here on Brownswood Recordings , the song quickly became a viral sensation, amassing over 50 million views on YouTube and winning "Track of the Year" at Gilles Peterson's Worldwide Awards. The Story Behind "Abusey Junction" The track was composed by former guitarist Oscar