Ghanaian musician and founder of Afro Roots, Rocky Dawuni, has earned yet another Grammy nomination with his song “Rise.” This year, Dawuni’s track has been nominated in the Best Global Music Performance category, marking his fourth time being recognized by the Grammy Academy. Dawuni’s nomination highlights the global reach of his music and his dedication to showcasing African culture on an international stage.
Among Ghanaian musicians, Dawuni stands out as the sole nominee in this year’s Grammy lineup. While artists like King Promise, Black Rasta, and Wiyaala also submitted projects for consideration, “Rise” captured the Academy’s attention.
The song, which Dawuni describes as “a piece of art that reflects who we are as a people and our culture,” emphasizes his goal of creating music that resonates worldwide. He shared that “Rise” is intended to inspire, aiming to be “art that speaks to us and resonates with who we are, yet stands on its own and demands attention.”
To promote his Grammy-nominated work, Dawuni recently appeared on Class FM’s Class Xtra show. In a discussion with host Zeal Nana Kweku Bliss, Dawuni discussed the creative direction behind “Rise” and the deeper message it carries. The interview, part of his media tour, was designed to introduce his latest song to more listeners and expand its influence.
Beyond his musical career, Dawuni is celebrated as an African cultural activist and a UN Goodwill Ambassador for Africa for the UN Environment Programme. He also serves as a Global Ambassador for the UN Foundation’s Clean Cooking Alliance, working alongside notable figures like actress Julia Roberts and Chef José Andrés. Through his music, Dawuni promotes global peace and aims to bridge cultures, especially between Africa, the Caribbean, and the United States.
Often hailed as the “Bob Marley of Ghana,” Dawuni’s journey into reggae music began when he heard a military band perform Bob Marley’s music at Michel Camp, where he grew up. Over the years, he developed his unique sound, Afro Roots, blending African and Caribbean musical influences to create a style that resonates deeply with audiences around the world.
Rocky Dawuni’s fourth Grammy nomination for “Rise” is not just a personal achievement but also a proud moment for Ghana and African music as a whole. Through his Afro Roots sound, he continues to bridge cultural divides and bring the spirit of African music to a global stage.
As he garners worldwide recognition, Dawuni remains committed to using his platform to promote unity, peace, and cultural appreciation. His journey reminds us of the power of music to transcend boundaries, and his Grammy nomination is a testament to his dedication to artistry and activism.
