Singing is more commercial than rap music - Kofi Kinaata

Award-winning Ghanaian musician Kofi Kinaata has shared his perspective on the music industry, stating that singing is more commercially viable than rap music. In a recent interview, the "Things Fall Apart" hitmaker revealed that while rap may showcase lyrical dexterity and creativity, it doesn't always translate into mass market appeal or financial success.

According to Kinaata, rap is often limited in reach, especially in Ghana, where a significant portion of the audience prefers melodies they can sing along to, rather than bars packed with heavy punchlines or deep metaphors. He explained that many listeners connect better with music that is simple, relatable, and easy to digest — which singing naturally provides.

"Rap is powerful, no doubt, but when it comes to commercial success, singing has a wider reach. A catchy chorus or melodic hook can easily go viral or resonate with the average Ghanaian," Kinaata said.

Kinaata, who started his career primarily as a rapper, has gradually incorporated more singing into his style, blending thoughtful lyrics with melodic rhythms. This fusion, he believes, has contributed significantly to his success and broader appeal.

He also pointed out that many corporate brands, event organizers, and radio stations are more inclined to support melodic songs than hardcore rap tracks, which often come with niche appeal.

The Fante rap god emphasized that while rap still has a solid place in Ghanaian music, artists looking to achieve mainstream success may need to adapt their style or find a balance between rap and singing.

Kofi Kinaata's comments have sparked a conversation among fans and fellow musicians, with some agreeing that versatility is key in today's music business, especially in an ever-evolving industry where audience preferences continue to shift.

 

 

 

 

Written By: DJ RAYA