Amerado Makes History as First Kumasi Rapper to Win Best Rapper Award at VGMA 2023
Recognition is a vital aspect of success in the music industry, and Amerado, a Ghanaian rapper, received it in abundance at the 2023 Vodafone Ghana Music Awards (VGMA). The ceremony, which took place yesterday, is one of Ghana’s most prestigious music events, and Amerado made history by becoming the first Kumasi rapper to win the Best Rapper award.
Amerado, born Derrick Sarfo Kantanka, is known for his unique style of storytelling and rap delivery, which has garnered him a loyal fan base in Ghana and beyond. He began his music career in 2015 and has since released several hit songs, including the “Yeete Nsem” series, which has become a popular cultural phenomenon in Ghana.
At the VGMA, Amerado outshined popular rappers such as Teephlow, Medikal, Strongman, and Lyrical Joe, winning the coveted Best Rapper award. The win was well-deserved, as Amerado’s consistent growth as an artist, and his ability to combine witty wordplay with storytelling, has earned him recognition in the music industry.
Amerado’s win is not only a personal accomplishment, but it also marks a significant milestone for Kumasi rap, a genre often overshadowed by Accra-based artists in Ghana’s music industry. Kumasi has been home to several talented rappers, including Flowking Stone, King Paluta, Strongman, and Phrimpong. However, Kumasi rap has not received the recognition it deserves until now.
Amerado’s win demonstrates that talent can emerge from anywhere and that artists should not be limited by their location. Other Kumasi-based rappers can now aspire to achieve similar success, and Amerado’s win has shown that it is possible.
For the most part, Amerado’s win marks a new beginning for Kumasi rap, a genre that has been underappreciated for too long. Amerado’s “Yeete Nsem” series has also become a cultural touchstone in Ghana, covering a wide range of topics, from politics to social issues. His win is a testament to the growth and potential of Ghanaian rap, and the recognition of talented artists regardless of their location.