PJHay, born John Opoku Sarkodie on June 23, 2003, is a Ghanaian rapper and songwriter steadily gaining attention for his unique blend of Twi rap and contemporary African sounds. Hailing from Obuasi in the Ashanti Region, the young artist represents a new wave of musicians combining cultural authenticity with modern musical expression.
Early life and academic background
PJHay was born and raised in Obuasi, where he grew up as the first of two children in his family. His upbringing in the mining town played a significant role in shaping both his worldview and lyrical content. He pursued his secondary education at Opoku Ware School, a well-regarded institution in Ghana, before furthering his studies at the University of Health and Allied Sciences, Kintampo. There, he earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Disease Control, demonstrating a strong academic commitment alongside his creative pursuits.
From street rap culture to music releases
Like many emerging Ghanaian rappers, PJHay began his journey through grassroots platforms. He actively participated in “kasahare” sessions, a popular street rap culture known for competitive lyrical exchanges. Through rap battles and local competitions, he built his reputation, often emerging victorious and gaining recognition for his sharp delivery and confidence.
His official entry into the music scene came in 2025 with the release of his debut single, “OBAA HEMAA.” The track introduced his style to a wider audience and laid the foundation for subsequent releases. He followed up with songs such as “GO DOWN” and “WARM UP FLOW,” further establishing his presence. His more recent release, “WO (You),” continues to gain traction across digital streaming platforms including Apple Music, Spotify, Boomplay, iTunes, and YouTube.
Musical style and influence
PJHay is particularly known for his rapid-fire rap delivery in the Twi language, a style that resonates strongly with local audiences. His sound is a fusion of highlife, hip-hop, and Afrobeat, allowing him to bridge traditional Ghanaian rhythms with contemporary global trends. This combination not only highlights his versatility but also positions him within a growing category of artists redefining Ghana’s modern music landscape.
Independent path and SBG collective
Currently unsigned to any record label, PJHay operates independently, maintaining creative control over his work. He is affiliated with a collective known as SBG, an acronym for Still Biggest Geng. The group includes Elijah Atta, known as Papa Elia, Evans Addjie, also called Vans, Padmore Trendz, Clement Bannor, widely known as Kojo Monday, and Aaron Appiah Marfo, referred to as Pages.
This collective serves as both a support system and a creative network, reflecting a common model among emerging artists who rely on close-knit teams to build their careers.
Digital presence and accessibility
PJHay’s music is widely accessible across major digital platforms, making it easy for fans to stream and follow his work. He also maintains an active presence on social media, where he engages with listeners and promotes his releases. His Instagram, TikTok, and X accounts, all under variations of @pjhay_1, provide direct access to his growing fanbase.
As he continues to develop his sound and expand his reach, PJHay remains one of the emerging voices to watch within Ghana’s evolving music industry.
