In this special episode of Coming to America, we welcome Niisai Botchway, a Ghanaian musician whose life has been shaped by rhythm, resilience, and remarkable journeys.

Niisai first came to the U.S. in 1974 as a member of Hedzoleh Soundz, a groundbreaking Afro-jazz group introduced to American audiences by none other than Hugh Masekela. Before international tours and studio sessions in Nigeria and the U.S., the band was a nightly fixture at the legendary Napoleon Club in Accra.

We talk about:

The early days of Ghana's live music scene

Recording their first album (twice!)

Touring the U.S. with Masekela

Returning to Ghana, and later to Portland in 1991 at the invitation of Obo Addy, another Ghanaian music legend

Finding community and balance as an immigrant, musician, and longtime valet at OHSU

🎶 And for the first time on this podcast—Niisai plays live music! A beautiful reminder of how art travels with us, no matter where we go.

This is more than a story about immigration—it’s a tribute to the global language of music and a life well lived between cultures.