Pax Nicholas

Pax Nicholas

Nicholas Addo-Nettey popularly known as Pax Nicholas was born in Accra, Ghana, on August 7th, 1954.

Early life

Pax immersed himself in music from an early age. His journey began in a gospel choir at the age of 6, leading to participation in various traditional and cultural groups as a dancer and Percussionist. Drawn to American soul music, particularly inspired by idols like James Brown and Otis Redding, Nicholas embarked on his performance career at age 18.

Career life

Fate smiled upon Nicholas when fellow musician Joe King Kologbo invited him to Lagos, Nigeria, the hub of African funk music. Introduced to the legendary Fela Anikulapo Kuti, Nicholas joined Africa 70 in 1971 as a conga player and background singer. His debut on the record "Shakara" marked the beginning of his tenure with Fela, a period during which he contributed to all of Fela's releases from 1971 to 1978.

Despite his pivotal role in Africa 70, Nicholas pursued his solo projects on the side. Two solo LPs, "Mind Your Own Business" (1971) and "Na Teef Know The Road of Teef" (1973), were released with the Martin Brothers Band from Portharcort, Nigeria. The latter, recorded in Ginger Baker's studio, featured Africa 70 musicians and singers, drawing displeasure from Fela.

The "Na Teef..." album remained hidden for over 30 years until Frank Gossner, a dedicated cratedigger, discovered a copy in a Philadelphia record store. Tracking down Nicholas in Berlin, Gossner brought the album to the attention of Daptone Records.

Nicholas's journey included experiencing life in Fela's Kalakuta Republic during the 70s, a rebellious independent state in Lagos. The regime's attacks on Kalakuta led to Nicholas's arrest and mistreatment during a nine-month prison stay. The dangerous environment prompted his departure from Africa 70 after the 1978 Berlin Jazz Festival, alongside drummer Tony Allen.

Family and later part of his career.

Settling in Berlin, Nicholas raised two sons and continued his musical pursuits. Leading his band, Ridimtaksi, he offers a fresh take on Afrobeat, showcasing his enduring dedication to the genre. The story of Nicholas Addo-Nettey intertwines with the rich history of Afrobeat, reflecting a life shaped by passion, resilience, and a commitment to the rhythm that defines his musical journey.