Ghanaian rapper Sarkodie has made headlines with his latest powerful verses on the Hennessy South Africa Cypher, where he discusses his decision to remain independent and his skepticism towards major record labels, specifically citing Akon’s Konvict Muzik as one he turned down.
In a new rap, Sarkodie fiercely declares his autonomy and critiques the practices of big record companies.
“I did this thing myself, I never messed with mages. They gave me documents like a thousand pages. I want my freedom because most of my homies are locked in cages. It’s been a decade, I’m rapping, I’m the rock of ages,” he raps, emphasizing his journey and the importance of retaining control over his music career.
Sarkodie goes further to suggest that major labels often approach talented African artists under the guise of helping them grow, while ultimately exploiting them. “I taught you how to do this thing the right way. They smile with you but robbing you in broad day. I’m only human, I’m only doing what the lord say. Now, this is crazy,” he states, hinting at the deceptive practices he believes are prevalent in the industry.
He also highlights the bureaucratic hurdles that come with signing to big labels, making direct collaboration with other artists more challenging. “It’s kinda strange how this music has changed from how it was. I need a verse from my bro, a couple calls. But now I need to speak to some dude cos he’s the boss. Split the publishing before we hit the stores. I don’t mind, I know what I think in course. I can’t hate, cos it’s working, I see results. African music was buzzing but couldn’t cross. As soon as we signed the paperwork, labels opened the doors,” he reflects, pointing out both the pros and cons of such arrangements.
Finally, Sarkodie likens the actions of these international record labels to fraud, expressing his disillusionment. “Now I see how y’all really move. Cos the same thing that fraud people do. Throw a couple dollars, cage you in a zoo,” he concludes, making a strong statement about his views on the industry.
Sarkodie has been trending for his exceptional performance in the Maison Hennessy cypher released on Tuesday, June 25, 2024. The eight-minute cypher features other talented African rappers, including Maglera Doe Boy (South Africa), Didi B (Ivory Coast), Young Lunya (Tanzania), Khaligraph Jones (Kenya), and Ladipoe (Nigeria). While all the rappers delivered impressive performances, Sarkodie has been particularly praised by Ghanaians for his unique style and substance.
Source: Ghana/Starrfm.com.gh/103.5FM/Emmanuel Mensah
