Ghanaian rapper Amerado has opened up about the pivotal moments in his career, acknowledging the significant influence of veteran musician, Okyeame Kwame.
In an interview with Giovanni Caleb on Showbiz 360, Amerado recounted his journey from moments of uncertainty to his current success, crediting the support of fellow artists and fans.
Reflecting on a challenging period in 2019, Amerado shared, “I went to England and I was contemplating on whether to come back to my career or stay there which I knew was not permitted. I took it upon myself to come back after consulting a few people. When I came back, things were way harder. I was playing casino and betting. Sometimes, I go hungry, so I have to go to friends for money to eat.”
According to the rapper-turned-singer, his fortunes changed with the launch of ‘Yeete Nsem,’ a significant turning point in his career. Amerado explained, “That was when New Nation, a Canadian record label, came to join Quao and Lezzez to change the narrative. That’s my story.”
The rapper also discussed the inspiration behind his track ‘Obiaa Boa,’ revealing that missing out on the Best Rapper award last year was a motivating factor. He admitted, “When you expect something and it doesn’t happen, you get disappointed, not hurt.”
Amerado expressed his gratitude for the support he received from fellow artists especially on his latest hit, ‘Kwaku Anase’, saying, “Fameye was the first musician to call me and comment on my WhatsApp status after we decided to share it across our platforms.”
Regarding his latest EP, ‘Young and Strong,’ Amerado shared that it had received positive feedback both online and during a recent concert in Kumasi, where he performed alongside Strongman and King Paluta. He mentioned the success of his songs ‘Rap is still Alive’ and ‘Yonah’ across various platforms.
He further highlighted the artists who have influenced him, saying, “Okyeame Kwame is always first. Then Eugene Praye (Horni Hor), Ofori Amponsah, the late Daasebre Gyamenah, and Obrafour.”
He emphasized his versatility as a full-package artist, saying, “Now everybody must accept that I am a full package so whatever I bring, accept and support it.”
Amerado expressed his appreciation for Okyeame Kwame’s mentorship, revealing, “Personally, I’ll always applaud Okyeame Kwame for what he has done for me in my career. Sometimes he can call me, we go on a drive, he listens to my unreleased songs and advises me on what and what not to drop.”
As part of the interaction during the interview, Amerado emphasized the importance of collaboration in the industry, stating, “When you’re growing, you need to break the barriers. It’s right that we have good association. I’ve been a typical example of somebody who has been collaborating a lot with other artistes, especially singers. It’s just smart.”
Amerado concluded by expressing his commitment to continuous improvement and evolution in the music scene, noting, “I always try to be better than I was yesterday and it comes with a little bit of pressure.”
When asked about possible future collaborations, Amerado revealed his desire to work with artists from both Ghana and Nigeria.
“I’ll pick one from Ghana and the other from Nigeria. For Ghana, it’s either Shattawale or Stonebwoy. Nigeria will be Asake or Burna Boy,” he mentioned.
Amerado extended his gratitude to his fans, saying, “Thank you guys so much for holding me down. Keep supporting my music. Kwaku Anase is out and so is Young and Strong EP. Please do well to stream Amerado and any Ghanaian artistes’ songs. God bless you guys.”
By Esther Aryee|3xtra.tv.|Ghana