Kumasi continues to play a vital role in shaping Ghana’s music culture: quietly but consistently. Aside from its reputation as a cultural stronghold, the city is home to a growing number of music talents who are contributing to the industry in different ways, right from production to performance.
While names like Black Sherif, Amerado, and Olive the Boy etc. have become familiar, there are others making just as much impact behind the scenes and on the mic. These individuals are armed with originality, grit, and a deep-rooted connection to their cultural identity.
Their skills, creativity, and vision are influencing how Ghanaian music is made, heard, and experienced.
IPappi: The Sound Wizard
Prince Fosu, professionally known as IPappi, is a distinguished record producer and sound engineer from Kumasi. With a career extending over a decade, IPappi has been the creative force behind numerous chart-topping hits across various genres.
Think of IPappi as the magic behind the music. He’s the one who gave us the catchy beats for Stonebwoy’s “Ololo“ and the powerful hip-hop vibe in Kojo Cue and Shaker’s “Up and Awake.” He just knows how to make a song sound amazing. Prince Fosu (IPappi) is the guy that many top artists in Ghana want to work with.
IPappi has also hinted at a much-anticipated collaboration with none other than Sarkodie this year, 2025. It’s safe to say that expectations are high.
Kojo Cue: Lyrical Finesse
Kojo Cue is like a poet with a microphone. He is also a prominent rapper and songwriter hailing from Kumasi, Bantama. Renowned for his compelling storytelling and profound lyrics, he has made significant contributions to Ghana’s hip-hop industry.
His music often delves into social issues, personal experiences, and cultural narratives, resonating with a wide audience.
One of his latest masterpieces, “Abebrese“, has taken the industry by storm. The track, featuring Fameye, was recently celebrated by Apple Music, making waves by being featured on seven playlists. His album, “Pen & Paper“, created alongside Shaker, is another classic in his catalog. He has a way of making you think while you listen.
Sony Achiba: The Mix Master
Emmanuel John Bandick Dankwa (affectionately known as Sony Achiba, Oseikrom Prince Charles, and Indian Man) was way ahead of his time! Achiba emerged in the early 2000s as a groundbreaker by introducing “Hip-Dia,” a fusion of hiplife and Indian musical elements.
This created a unique sound from the status quo, showcasing his ability to transcend traditional genre boundaries that captivate global audiences.
One of his more recent collaborations, “Duabo Donkomi” with Lady Blue, highlights his sustained relevance in the industry. The official music video for the song can be found on Soniachi Records‘ YouTube channel.
Kojo Trilla: Hip-hop’s New Energy
Kojo Trilla is the fresh, exciting voice of Kumasi’s hip-hop scene. As an up-and-coming hip-hop artist from Kumasi Bantama, he has been actively involved in the local music scene, collaborating with fellow artists and contributing to the growth of Kumasi’s contemporary music.
One of his standout projects is TRILLY Tape, which features the track “They Wanna Know” among other hits. This tape has solidified his place in the Ghanaian music scene as he continues to collaborate with artists like Ace Illy, Reggie Osei, and Medusa G.I.A. on tracks such as “BomboClaat!” and “Enter My Internet” with Genna..
YPEE
Ypee, the Ghanaian rapper known for hits like “Meye Guy” and “Akohwie,” was born Andy Agyemang on June 18, 1996, in Kumasi, Ghana. He gained prominence with his sharp wordplay and relatable storytelling, leading to collaborations with artists such as Sarkodie and Medikal.
In March 2025, he released his latest album, “This Is ATBK“, a project that delves into his journey through life, struggles, and triumphs. The album is a true reflection of his growth, with each track telling a deeply personal story. Notable tracks like “Pain” featuring Shatta Wale, “Stargirl“, “Shedda Bodam“, and “Work” (featuring Kwesi Amewuga) highlight his ability to create beautiful love stories while maintaining his signature rap style.
Tubhani Muzik
Tubhani Muzik is a dynamic production duo hailing from Kumasi, known for their innovative beats and significant contributions to Ghanaian music. Made up of Carl Benjamin Akan-Duncan (TubhaniBeatz) and Denswag, the duo has carved a niche for themselves with their clean, genre-blending sound.
Their production credits include major hits like “Go Low” by Flowking Stone and “Dear God” by Strongman, both of which earned wide acclaim for their quality and originality. With a growing catalog and consistent collaborations with top-tier Ghanaian acts, Tubhani Muzik continues to shape the sonic landscape of Ghana’s music industry.
Khendi Beatz: The Asakaa Sound Architect
Stephen Kofi Frimpong, known professionally as Khendi Beatz, is a renowned music producer from Kumasi, Ghana. A key figure in the Asakaa (Ghanaian drill), Khendi Beatz is known for blending traditional Ghanaian rhythms with modern drill elements.
He is the producer behind “MAK❤️MA” and “ASEDA” by King Paluta, a track he proudly produced, mixed, and mastered himself. Other notable works include FAKE EX by Yaw Tog, amongst many others. His work continues to shape Kumasi’s evolving music landscape, earning him a solid reputation among the city’s top creatives.
Jay Bahd
Jay Bahd is a key figure in Kumasi’s Asakaa Drill, known for his energetic performances and catchy hooks. As a trendsetter in the drill genre, he has helped elevate the global recognition of Kumasi’s Asakaa scene. His debut album, “THE RETURN OF OKOMFO ANOKYE”, continues to evolve.
Some of his popular tracks include “Sika as3m,” which introduced his unique style to a wider audience, and “It’s not over,” which gained massive traction. His collaborations with other Asakaa artists have made a significant impact on the genre, reinforcing his place in the Ghanaian music landscape.
As these music talents from Kumasi continue to push boundaries and release groundbreaking music, it’s clear that the city’s influence on the global stage is growing. Keep an eye on Kumasi: it won’t be long before these creatives take their rightful place among the world’s music giants.
