Rocky Dawuni talks fourth Grammy nod, Afro-roots and global reach

Earlier this year, the musician celebrated his fourth career nod for music’s biggest night. On 2 February at the Crypto.com Arena in Los Angeles, California, he will vie for his first Grammy in the Best Global Music Performance category for ‘Rise’, the lead single from his upcoming 2025 album. 

Joining him as part of Africa’s contingent at the 67th Grammys are Nigeria’s Tems, Burna Boy, Asake, Davido, Lojay, Yemi Alade, and Rema, as well as Beninese legend Angélique Kidjo. 

Ahead of the 67th Grammys, Music In Africa caught up with Rocky Dawuni to discuss the significance of his nomination, the evolving global music scene, the importance of diverse African sounds, and his vision for 2025, which includes a new album, tours, advocacy, and cultural unification efforts.

MUSIC IN AFRICA: Congratulations on your fourth Grammy nomination! How does it feel to be recognised once again for your work? 

ROCKY DAWUNI: I am very grateful for the recognition and also for a song that aspires to articulate issues that are currently prevailing around the world. “Rise” is a song that I feel came through me. The nomination has further shed more light on its message of unity and togetherness. 

Thematically, ‘Rise’ is a unifying anthem and a call to action. This isn’t uncommon in your work over the years, but what do you think sets this song apart from your previous offerings on this subject matter? 

We live at a time when so many issues are going on in the world, both within the African Diaspora and the world at large. George Floyd, the lockdowns of COVID-19, the elections in the United States, and the economic uncertainty worldwide have all pushed many nations to the brink of crisis. Many ordinary people are feeling restless and helpless in the midst of all of these issues. Although songs that promote fun & enjoyment are still important, it is even much more important for music that can instil a sense of hope and resilience as an operating mindset of people. ‘Rise’ is that song.

 What was it like working with producers Nabeyin Panford and Roahn “Firstborn” Hylton, and what do you think sets ‘Rise’ apart from the other songs shortlisted in the Best Global Music Performance category?

Working with Nabeyin and Roahn was like working with brothers. We share a similar vision when it comes to music. Naybein with his Ghanaian/ American ancestry and Roahn with his Jamaican / American ancestry and both having worked with very popular artists including Travis Scott, Kanye West and Nicky Minaj brought a different perspective while staying true to my Afro Roots sound. In terms of Rise as compared to the other songs in the category, I feel that Rise has more of a contemporary sound and is driven by an irresistible groove that powers an important message for our times. 

What do you believe has contributed to your continued success and repeated Grammy recognition? 

I believe it is my faith in God and my sense of mission for my music which allows me to constantly strive to be better and opens me up to learning new inspirations. I think that keeps me bold in my innovation of my Afro Roots sound. I am confident that this is what keeps catching the ears of my peers, music aficionados and my fans. 

As an Afro-Roots pioneer and a key innovator of traditional Ghanaian sounds, how do you maintain your unique style while staying relevant in a dynamic global music landscape? 

I am a fan of upcoming music and musicians. I am constantly approaching them to teach me and inspire me. I think that gives me an ear to what is next as much as I am constantly also learning from our legends. This approach and attitude replenishes my creative wellsprings and inform me with new dimensions for my signature Afro Roots sound. For me, too, music is a spiritual mission. As long as I aim to articulate social truths and elevate the voices of the voiceless, I believe I will always have the pulse of what is current. 

As with your past releases, your forthcoming album is highly anticipated. While we expect you to continue your practice of pan-Africanism and social consciousness, what else can fans expect in terms of sound and themes? 

This record is going to be a beautiful and profound experience of the diversity of African sounds in a very powerful and harmonious way. This album also carries a sound that unites the past, and the present into the future and involves a diverse group of producers and collaborators. The album goes from deep Highlife to Afrobeat to Afrobeats to Pop to the now. The message of the African Renaissance and the elevation of our shared humanity will still be a core driving element with fresh-sounding production approaches. It’s coming!

Do you feel the music industry is becoming more inclusive of diverse African genres, especially when compared to the dominance of Afrobeats in recent years?

I feel that there is an urgent need for the opening up of the playing field when it comes to popular African music to circumvent the dangers of African music being boxed into one genre. The rise of Afrobeats is a positive declaration of the power of African music to go global as a movement, but it does not stop there. We need more of our diversity to be highlighted and classic sounds to be reinvigorated for the world to experience a broader sound of African origin. These are all part of an evolutionary process to project our cultural richness, but we can’t be complacent due to our current laurels and breakthroughs at the expense of what is possible.

What role do the Grammys play in the global appreciation of African music, particularly for genres like Afro-Roots? 

I believe the importance and symbolism of the Grammys is shedding light and enshrining a genre into the psyche of popular culture. Having my Afro Roots sound receiving nominations, I believe, has put it in a space where down the road it could spur a wider movement that could possibly lead to its own category. Music has a business side that works through certain established institutions, and as musicians who have to create, tour and promote our music, these established platforms could help us further our ultimate objective of reaching the people.

How does one prepare for a major event like the Grammys, both emotionally and creatively?

I always approach these events with a deep sense of gratitude. As a child of Africa who had always nurtured a dream of global recognition for my creativity, it is always an opportunity to highlight my culture, my people and my identity. I always work with Ghanaian designers to showcase our incredible talent. I also use that opportunity to orchestrate events that bring together creatives from the continent and the Diaspora to further advance cross-cultural collaboration.

Beyond the Grammys, can you share a bit about your vision for 2025, starting with your upcoming new LP?

The new album will be supported by a tour in Europe, the US and Africa encompassing both acoustic and full-band tours. I am also going to be working a lot on my advocacy, especially with my own Rocky Dawuni Foundation. My mission includes striving to culturally and creatively unify the continent, and the Diaspora especially with engaging and inspiring upcoming generations. I will be expanding into various other avenues such as African fashion, art and architecture. I will continue my role as the UN Goodwill Ambassador for the Environment for Africa promoting environmental solutions, awareness and reverence for Nature and God.