7 key takeaways from Stonebwoy’s interview with France24

Popular Ghanaian Reggae/Dancehall artist Livingstone Etse Satekla, known as Stonebwoy, recently appeared on FRANCE 24 English.

During the interview, he discussed his success, responsibilities as one of Africa's top artists, and his goal of empowering Africans through music.

Here are some key points from Stonebwoy's interview on France24 TV:

1. On His Career and Impact:

Stonebwoy said he feels a sense of responsibility to represent the people of Africa both within the continent and in the diaspora. He added that he believes in the unifying power of music and takes joy in his role as an artiste.

"It feels great to be a carrier of such responsibility, you know, representing for the people of Africa, within Africa and in the diaspora and humanity as a whole, because we are all one people."

2. On His Musical Journey:

He sees his rise from the streets of Ashaiman as an inspiration to others.

"I grew up in a city called Ashaiman... And so being like a star from a place like that can only tell you how inspirational my journey has been to the world, not only Ghana."

3. On Discovering Music:

Stonebwoy believes that music chose him and that it serves as a spiritual message to be shared across nations.

"I discovered music when I was like a child, you know, after I know that music has chosen me... And music is a spiritual message that we have to send across nations."

4. On Using Music for Social Change:

Having acquired a degree in public administration, Stonebwoy said he would use his education to amplify his music's message and address societal issues in Africa.

He highlighted the importance of understanding one's role in governance and public life.

"We are all a part of government already, aren't we?... I actually use my music as a tool to unify and preach."

5. On Collaborations and Future Projects:

Stonebwoy hinted at more collaborations with international acts in both pop and hip-hop.

"I've always shot for the skies... I'm looking towards doing something beautiful with Rihanna or Taylor Swift... I've got something with Rick Ross also in the pipeline, working towards the hip-hop side as well."

7. His Message to Fans:

I just want to let them know they got to believe in themselves, and they have to listen, and to, you know, they have to listen to their inner self.

"Because you are what is within you more than what is outside of you. And that's where you're going to get your directions and your calling, to be able to pursue what you want to pursue.

"And we're all contributing to humanity. So don't stop; keep pushing and achieve the highest that you can. There's nothing impossible to achieve within your limits.

"And all the fingers are not equal. So don't try to compare yourself to people. Because comparing things steals the joy, you know, out of who you are," he said.

ID/MA

Watch the full interview here