Yaa Pono says his competitive approach to rap should not be mistaken for a personal feud with Sarkodie. He insisted that he has always been comfortable throwing direct shots when the occasion calls for it.
Speaking to Dr. Pounds on Hitz FM, the rapper addressed the perception that some of his lyrics are directed at Sarkodie and explained why he does not believe every line in a rap song should be taken personally.
“You can be singing a song in your head, and when you get out, somebody is singing the same song. It’s strange, so don’t take every shot personally.”
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Yaa Pono said his approach to rap has been shaped by the battle culture he experienced while growing up. He noted that Sarkodie is familiar with that side of his personality and would know that he has never been one to shy away from a direct lyrical challenge.
“Me, Yaa Pono, I am straight; I am a ‘battler.’ We did battles back to back while growing up, and Sarkodie himself knows this. If there’s a battle, I will call you out straight and throw my shots.”
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The rapper, however, drew a distinction between deliberately targeting another artiste and making bold claims as part of rap competition.
According to Yaa Pono, rap comes with moments when artistes have to assert their dominance and make strong statements about their position in the game. He believes an artiste should not be expected to remain silent simply because another rapper believes they have already reached a certain level.
“But there are some rap styles or things we need to say to claim supremacy. With that, you don’t have to let anybody keep your mouth shut if you think you have reached that level. So, if someone is saying he is there and you shouldn’t say it, it doesn’t make sense.”
His comments come amid continued interest in the lyrical exchanges and competitive relationship between some of Ghana’s established rappers.
Yaa Pono, however, indicated that what listeners may interpret as subliminal shots or rivalry can simply be part of the competitive nature of hip-hop.
He maintained that there is no personal dispute behind his approach and insisted that his focus remains on making music and continuing to rap.
“There’s no problem. I’m just doing my music. I have to rap; rap can’t stop.”
Watch his statement below.
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