Ghanaian sound engineer and producer GuiltyBeatz
Ghanaian sound engineer and producer GuiltyBeatz has shared the unexpected story behind how he landed a major collaboration with global superstar Beyoncé.
Speaking in an interview with Sincerely Accra, which was shared on X on Monday, June 23, 2025, GuiltyBeatz recounted how a routine studio session turned into a career-defining moment.
“I had just landed in Ghana from a trip. I was a bit jet-lagged but had a session scheduled with a few other producers. We were just vibing in the studio when Beyoncé’s team suddenly showed up,” he stated.
According to GuiltyBeatz, the visit was unannounced, and none of the producers had been informed in advance.
“Her team didn’t waste time. They came in, connected some aux cables, and simply asked each of us to play what we had. No pressure,” he laughed.
When it was his turn, he decided to play the instrumental for ‘Thomas Pompoyɛyaw’, a track he had previously produced for Ghanaian rapper Pappy Kojo.
“I wasn’t sure what to expect, honestly. It’s a very local, highlife-inspired beat, very authentic to the Ghanaian sound. But to my surprise, they were feeling it! They liked the energy, the bounce, everything. That was the beat that caught their attention,” he recounted.
Shortly after, GuiltyBeatz received word that he had been selected to work with Beyoncé on a project.
“The very next day, she came to my studio with her entire team. We locked in and started working right away. It was surreal. She was down-to-earth, focused, and really open to experimenting with African rhythms,” he said.
This collaboration became part of Beyoncé’s widely acclaimed 2019 album The Lion King: The Gift, where she spotlighted African artists and sounds.
GuiltyBeatz went on to contribute to multiple tracks on the album, including ‘Already’ featuring Shatta Wale and ‘Keys to the Kingdom’.
Reflecting on the experience, he said, “It taught me that sometimes, all you have to do is show up and stay true to your sound. You never know who’s listening.”
PA/MA
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