Ofori Amponsah has opened up about a pivotal moment early in his music journey, revealing how a chance encounter with Daddy Lumba not only validated his talent but also set him on the path to success.
In a video shared on TikTok, the Ghanaian artiste recalled how his music career nearly derailed before it began, all because of doubt cast by someone who believed Daddy Lumba would never support him.
“I took my demo to a music store, I met a guy, and I told him to listen to the demo and give me feedback. The guy listened to the songs and surprisingly asked me if I was the one who sang it. When I said yes, he said that’s a powerful song so I should take the songs to Daddy Lumba,” he recounted.
Encouraged by that response, he tried to find a way to meet the music icon. But the road wasn’t smooth.
“I asked the guy where I would meet him, he said Daddy Lumba was around and helping the young ones so I can try my luck. When I went to submit my demo, I met a man and the man nearly discouraged me, saying Daddy Lumba wouldn’t help me so I should forget about it,” Ofori divulged.
Despite that warning, his determination didn’t waver. Days later, he received word that Daddy Lumba wanted to see him in person.
“I was later called that Daddy Lumba wanted to see me, so I went inside. I saw him but he didn’t say a word to me and went inside. I started wondering if I’d done something wrong.”
Then came a life-changing gesture. Daddy Lumba not only listened to his work but offered both encouragement and financial support.
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“When he came back, he brought an envelope, handed it over to me and it was 5 million old currency. Then he said I should use the money for demos, I’m a star and I will become like him. I was shocked because I’ve suffered for three years. He said I should do a new song, and he will produce me.”
According to Ofori Amponsah, what followed was a six-year-long mentorship under Daddy Lumba, which helped mould him into a star.
“Meeting Daddy Lumba from the beginning, things were not smooth as people think. I was under him for almost six years. We signed contract two months after meeting him, but it took six years for me to come out. I never gave up and I later got the opportunity to get closer to him,” he stated.