Ghana: Listen to Darkua’s new single MiiYa

Produced by Insvne Auggie, the bare, guitar-led record blends contemporary and traditional Ghanaian sounds. It was mastered by Fortune Dane, with backing vocals from fellow Ghanaian singer EssTheeLegend.

‘MiiYa’, which translates from Ga as “I’m leaving”, centres on the themes of empowerment and self-liberation, with the author encouraging listeners to leave abusive relationships. She emphasises that it's not worth sacrificing one's peace to remain in environments that hinder personal growth and happiness.

“‘MiiYa’ is a song for every person going through domestic violence,” the songstress said. “In most cases, they fear the stigma that comes with it, so they stay silent. Sometimes, offenders guilt the survivors into staying. Other times, they’re threatened.

“Leaving a relationship or marriage with a violent partner can be tough, because you believe and have hopes that they’re going to change one day. You strongly believe that the nice and sweet person you met in the beginning is going to come back. The truth is, they’re never going to change. It’s only going to get worse. Leaving is never easy, but don’t be scared to seek or accept help.”

An Apple Music Up Next alumna, Darkua is behind well-received records like ‘Amalelor’, and ‘Echo’. She currently boasts over 1.2 million streams and credits West African music icons such as the late great highlife vocalist AB Crenstil, Tempos frontman ET Mensah and Afrobeat singer Lagbaja among her technical models.