Mike West

Biography

Mike West is a Ghanaian musician and DJ based in the United Kingdom, recognized for his dynamic presence in the reggae and roots reggae scene. With a career that spans multiple countries, West has established himself not only as a performer but also as a cultural bridge, bringing African and Caribbean musical influences to European audiences. His early years in Ghana provided a foundation rich in traditional rhythms, which he later fused with reggae after relocating to the UK.

Throughout his career, West has worked extensively as a DJ in France, Switzerland, and Austria, further broadening his musical palette and audience. His performances are known for their energetic delivery and authentic reggae sound, often incorporating elements from his Ghanaian heritage. West’s ability to blend genres and cultures has earned him a reputation as a versatile and innovative artist within the European reggae community.

Mike West’s legacy lies in his role as a musical ambassador, introducing reggae and African-inspired sounds to new listeners across Europe. His work continues to inspire both audiences and aspiring musicians, highlighting the global reach and unifying power of reggae music.

Fun Facts

  • Mike West has worked as a DJ in multiple European countries, including France, Switzerland, and Austria.
  • He is known for blending Ghanaian musical elements with classic reggae rhythms.
  • West is celebrated for his energetic live performances and ability to connect with diverse audiences.
  • He is recognized as a cultural ambassador, promoting African and Caribbean music in Europe.

Musical Connections

Mentors/Influences

  • Traditional Ghanaian musicians - Early musical foundation and rhythmic inspiration from Ghanaian music culture (Traditional performances and community events) [Childhood and early youth]

Key Collaborators

  • European reggae and world music DJs - Collaborated during DJ residencies and live events in France, Switzerland, and Austria (Live sets and club nights) [2000s–present]

Artists Influenced

  • Emerging UK-based African reggae artists - Inspired by West’s fusion of African and reggae styles and his international career (Local performances and independent releases) [2010s–present]

Connection Network

Current Artist
Collaborators
Influenced
Mentors
Has Page
No Page

Discography

Albums

Title Release Date Type
The Change I'm Seeking 2012-12-21 Album
Love Will Find a Way 2015-09-01 Album
7 2025-04-11 Album
Leaders 2024-07-05 Album
Love Overflowing 2016-07-12 Album
Jah Will Never Leave I Alone 2014-05-22 Album
Mike Love & The Full Circle (Live At Home In Hawaii) 2020-08-28 Album
Mike Love Live at Sugarshack Sessions Vol. 2 2021-12-17 Album
Mike Love (Live at Sugarshack Sessions Vol. 3) 2023-10-20 Album
Pixel Prison 2023-11-10 Album

Top Tracks

  1. Permanent Holiday (The Change I'm Seeking)
  2. These Are My Roots
  3. Life by the Drop
  4. Barbershop (The Change I'm Seeking)
  5. I Love You (Love Will Find a Way)
  6. Movin' on (The Change I'm Seeking)
  7. Heavy Load (7)
  8. Jah Is Real
  9. Good News (Love Will Find a Way)
  10. Human Race (The Change I'm Seeking)

References

  1. ghanaweb.com
  2. ghanastar.com
  3. ghanaregions.com

Heard on WWOZ

Mike West has been played 3 times on WWOZ 90.7 FM, New Orleans' jazz and heritage station.

DateTimeTitleShowSpotify
Dec 25, 202522:54Bartender Songfrom 16 Easy Songs For Drill And BanjoKitchen Sinkw/ Jennifer Brady
Nov 7, 202514:11What Would You Dofrom 16 Easy Songs For Drill And BanjoThe Blues Breakdown
Nov 6, 202523:53Joannefrom 16 Easy Songs For Drill And BanjoKitchen Sinkw/ Jennifer Brady