The release of the ‘Top 10 Ghanaian Rappers of All Time’ list by DJ Kaxtro, while certainly sparking conversations, has also drawn sharp criticism for leaving out a central figure in Ghana’s rap history: Okyeame Kwame.

Showbiz personalities like Don Itchi and PortfoliotheMC, along with many netizens, have questioned how a list of such magnitude could omit someone who is not only a pioneer but an architect of modern Ghanaian rap.

In descending order, the list captures Lord Kenya, Obrafour, M.anifest, Sarkodie, M3nsa, Kwadee, Eno Barony, EL, Strongman and Reggie Rockstone.

From the golden days of the Akyeame duo to his ever-relevant solo career, Okyeame Kwame has consistently stayed at the forefront of Ghanaian music. He skillfully blends social consciousness, high-level lyricism, and deep cultural reflections into his rap, crafting works that transcend mere entertainment. One needs not listen to his iconic tracks like Woara, Faithful, and Made in Ghana to see that his contributions are much more than catchy hooks or mainstream hits; his music is an embodiment of cultural preservation and national pride.

It’s not just about chart-topping hits or trends. Okyeame Kwame’s body of work shows that he is an artiste who uses rap as a vehicle for storytelling, cultural preservation, and social change. His exclusion from any ‘Top 10’ list of Ghanaian rappers, therefore, is not only puzzling but diminishes the credibility of the ranking itself. Rap in Ghana, as we know it, would be incomplete without Okyeame Kwame’s contributions.

Every technical rapper worth his salt will tell you that Okyeame Kwame is the most complete rapper in Ghana. He can twist, he can deliver in the regular cadence, and he uses themes that are unusual but appealing to the ear. His style is not monotonous, and his flow switches back and forth while making the most sense of the topic. OK is the only rapper in Ghana whose rap aligns with the key signature of the song, sometimes even melodic, and always on time.

Perhaps the most compelling argument for Okyeame Kwame’s inclusion is his role in fostering the next generation of artistes. He has mentored several up and coming musicians and remains a symbol of consistency in the Ghanaian music industry. In the broader context, this list should be seen as a half-formed attempt at recognizing rap excellence in Ghana. Any credible ranking of Ghanaian rappers should not merely focus on short-term popularity or the influence of current trends but rather on the deeper cultural and historical contributions that have shaped the genre. Okyeame Kwame, by all accounts, remains at the forefront of this legacy.

Excluding Okyeame Kwame from this list overlooks his undeniable impact, his influence on younger generations, and his ability to redefine what it means to be a Ghanaian rapper. His numerous accolades and international recognition further cement his place among the greatest. The dialogue around this omission suggests that any credible ranking must account for his vast contributions, not just as a musician but as a cultural ambassador, whose work reflects the heart and soul of Ghana.

In truth, a list without Okyeame Kwame is incomplete, and this latest attempt to chronicle Ghanaian rap history should be reconsidered to include the ‘Rap Dacta,’ who helped build the very foundation of the genre. A revision that captures his versatility, longevity, and his role as a voice for both the streets and the nation is not just necessary, it is long overdue.

source:.myjoyonline.com