Ghana: Joey B featured on Apple Music’s Rap Life Radio

The track, which features Nigerian artist Odunsi (The Engine), appears on Joey B’s recently released project, Sexy Highlife. According to the artist, the song draws inspiration from zouk and kompa music, genres he was exposed to during his childhood.

“I’ve always wanted to have a zouk/kompa record in my catalogue somewhere. In the early 90s, Caribbean and French sounds were creeping into the Ghanaian music scene, which made my father play them at home,” Joey B said. “I’ve always loved that sound as a child, and here I am today trying it out.”

The appearance on Rap Life Radio coincides with the release of Sexy Highlife, a project that combines elements of Ghanaian highlife with contemporary production influences. Joey B said the project was partly inspired by his experiences in New York and the city’s emerging “Sexy Drill” movement.

The musician has built a reputation over the past decade through releases such as Tonga, La Familia, U x Me and Princess, becoming one of Ghana’s most recognisable contemporary artists.

“Being on the Rap Life Africa cover is a real honour. I’ve seen my favourite rappers on this cover, so being here myself hits different. I’m grateful to my fans, my team, and everyone who's been riding with me. And to Apple Music, thank you for always showing up for African music,” Joey B said.

In addition to Joey B, Rap Life Africa will highlight Lapisa, the debut single by South African duo Rush-Awa, comprising producers and artists DJ Sliqe and MashBeatz. The song features Lowfeye, LaCabra and dolphin_dx.

The programme will also showcase PHUNYUKA BAMPHETHE by Cassper Nyovest, one of South Africa’s leading hip hop artists.

Rap Life Radio is part of Apple Music’s global hip-hop programming and regularly features artists, releases and trends from Africa and other regions.

Contributors: Collins Matsepe, Mandla Mhlongwa and George Seloane