YPee, born Andy Agyemang, is a renowned Ghanaian hip-hop artist known for his energetic performances and lyrical prowess. Recently, he shared his thoughts on the state of rap music in Ghana during an interview on Pure FM. The “Mey3 Guy” hitmaker was candid about the challenges facing rap music today, revealing that it no longer commands the same crowd appeal as it once did.
YPee explained that rap music, despite requiring immense talent, is not the kind of music that makes people dance. “You will die of hunger if you focus on only rap,” he stated, emphasizing that even a hint of singing is more commercially viable than a purely rap track. He pointed out that rap music alone rarely gets artists on event bills because it doesn’t move the crowd the way other genres do. “Sarkodie chop all the money for rap inside,” YPee added, suggesting that even the most successful rappers have had to diversify their musical styles.
Addressing claims that he is moving away from rap to embrace singing, YPee clarified that blending rap with singing is a strategic decision. He noted that most rappers feature singers for the chorus while they handle the rap verses, but a full rap track often does not sell well.
YPee also shared his experience with TikTok influencers, acknowledging their significant role in promoting music. While he agreed that using TikTok to create viral dance challenges can help a song reach a wider audience, he revealed that his personal experience was disappointing. “They asked that I send money for the promo dance and other videos, which I did, but the track did not do well,” he explained, adding that he has since stopped relying on the TikTok market.
YPee’s insights offer a glimpse into the evolving music landscape in Ghana and the challenges artists face in staying relevant and profitable.
