Zack & Geebah were a Liberian musical duo known for their Afro-disco style. The group was composed of singer and drummer Zack Roberts and musician Geebah Swaray.
Background
Both Roberts and Swaray were former members of the band Liberian Dreams, which was known for the hit song "OAU Welcome to Liberia." Following the disbandment of Liberian Dreams, the duo decided to record their own music and found work as session musicians in Nigeria.
Career
Zack & Geebah gained popularity in Liberia during the 1980s and reportedly sold more than 200,000 copies of their music. They were known for the hit songs "Keep on Trying" and "Sweet Liberia," the latter of which has been described as a patriotic ballad. Their musical style blended boogie, disco, West African melodies, and reggae rhythms.
Despite a short career, the duo released two mini albums and a single, comprising 14 songs in total. Their album For the Love of Money (six tracks) was reissued in 2019 by British record label Barely Breaking Even (BBE) as part of its Tabansi Gold reissue project, supported by the single "No Peace No Love."
Disbandment
In 1989, Zack & Geebah disbanded prior to the start of the First Liberian Civil War. The split occurred due to Zack's desire to open a studio and pursue a solo career. According to Zack, Geebah never wanted the duo to separate.
Notable events
Zack Roberts represented Liberia at the 1977 FESTAC festival in Lagos, alongside musicians Yatta Zoe, Fatu Gayflor, Nimba Burr, and Morris Dorley. He also performed during the re-opening of the Apollo Theatre in Harlem, New York.
In September 2019, Zack threatened a court injunction against former first lady of Liberia Clar Weah, accusing her and organizations including USAID, Fauna & Flora International, Partners in Development, and the Forestry Development Authority of using "Sweet Liberia" and "Keep on Trying" in promotional jingles without permission.
Discography
- For the Love of Money (mini album)
Genres: Afro-disco, boogie, disco, reggae Years active: 1980s Origin: Monrovia, Liberia Past members: Zack Roberts, Geebah Swaray
