Ghanaian rapper M.anifest has recently sparked a conversation about the depth of his music with his response to fans who say he uses “big English” in his songs. In a recent interview, he explained that mining is not done on the surface, suggesting that his lyrics are layered and deep, and cannot be fully appreciated at a superficial level.
M.anifest, whose real name is Kwame Ametepee Tsikata, is known for his thought-provoking and lyrically dense music. His songs often touch on social and political issues, and he has earned a reputation as one of Ghana’s most intellectually stimulating artistes.
In response to criticism that his music is too complex, M.anifest offered the analogy of mining to explain his approach to songwriting. He compared his lyrics to a mine, suggesting that just as mining is not done on the surface, his music cannot be fully understood without delving deeper into the meanings behind the words.
This powerful statement challenges the idea that music should be easily digestible and suggests that depth and complexity are essential elements of great art. M.anifest’s assertion is a reminder to fans and critics alike to take the time to explore and appreciate the layers of meaning in his music, rather than dismissing it as too intellectual or difficult to understand.
M.anifest’s message is especially significant in a time when music is often consumed and judged quickly, with little attention paid to the deeper layers of meaning and thought that artistes put into their work. His analogy encourages listeners to engage with music at a deeper level and to appreciate the artistry and craftsmanship that goes into creating it.
The rapper’s words also highlight the importance of intellectual stimulation in music. By challenging his fans to dig deeper into the meaning of his lyrics, M.anifest is encouraging a culture of critical thinking and reflection, which is an important and often overlooked aspect of music consumption.
