When it comes to ranking musicians based on their contribution to the Azonto genre, which took over the world in the early 2010s, Ghanaian musician EL has asserted that he would place himself second among the pioneers who shaped and pushed the movement to global recognition.
Speaking on the Audacity of the Art podcast, EL said Nshorna Music deserves the top spot, with himself coming next, insisting that anyone else can follow after.
“I’ll be the number two guy when it comes to the Azonto genre, the pioneers of it, and the people who pushed it forward. It’ll be Nshorna Music number one, then me, and whoever else wants to follow can follow,” EL said.
When asked how he would respond to those who argue that rapper Sarkodie deserves the position instead, EL dismissed the debate, maintaining confidence in his contribution to the genre.
“That’s their business. I don’t care. I know where I stand on these issues. If you think otherwise, fight me. Come to the studio and let’s have an Azonto-off. I don’t dance, but I can do the music really well. So let’s see what you’ve got,” he stated.
Fight over Azonto ownership killed the sound - E.L
On whether he feels he has received enough recognition for his role in the Azonto movement, EL said he is satisfied with the appreciation he has received over the years.
“You guys can have that conversation. I know my contributions, so I do get flowers all the time, especially during this period that I’ve been out here. I’ve received so many flowers I could start a whole nursery. I’m really happy about where I stand,” he stated.
The conversation also touched on the lack of proper documentation of Ghana’s music history, particularly regarding the pioneers of genres such as Azonto and Afro-dancehall.
EL agreed that preserving Ghana’s music history is important to ensure future generations understand the origins of these movements.
He added that, given his contribution to the genre, he is confident he will never be left out of conversations about the history and evolution of Azonto.
“Yeah, we need to work on that. It’s something that has to be done before it’s too late. But I think in people’s minds, people already know. So I’m definitely not going to be absent from the conversation,” he added.
Azonto is a Ghanaian music and dance movement that emerged from coastal communities in Accra, including Jamestown and Chorkor, in the early 2010s.
The genre combines traditional Ga Kpanlogo rhythms with modern hip-hop influences and became a global phenomenon through its energetic sound and dance moves inspired by everyday activities.
AK/EB
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