A photo collage of Shatta Wale and Stonebwoy EZRON
International reggae sensation Hezron arrived in Ghana on Saturday, December 13th, 2024, marking the beginning of his highly anticipated West African tour.
The artist was approached by a Ghanaian lady named Cynthia, who promised to link him to Ghanaian artists.
Hezron expressed his excitement about the connection and took the opportunity to trace his roots in the Ashanti region.
The tour begins on Monday, December 16th, and will take him to Nigeria through Togo, Benin, Ghana, and Côte d’Ivoire until January 13th, 2025, when he will depart for Jamaica.
Hezron revealed that he would be spending a month in Africa during his tour, during which he would feature many Ghanaian artists. The artist emphasized the importance of reggae music.
He noted that his first visit to Ghana was in 2023, and he expressed his eagerness to share his music with Ghanaians.
The reggae icon highlighted the significance of good presentation in reggae music, citing Ghanaian artist Black Prophet as an exemplary performer.
Hezron also mentioned that many Ghanaian artists had approached him for collaborations, which he welcomed with open arms.
Hezron emphasized the importance of embracing reggae music, noting that it was not in competition with Afrobeat.
“It’s all about the message,” he said. The artist also clarified the difference between dancehall music and reggae music, highlighting the unique qualities of each genre.
According to Hezron, reggae music has come to stay and cannot vanish. He promised to use his influence to shape the dancehall artists in Ghana, should they humble themselves and seek his guidance. Hezron also called on reggae and dancehall artists to come and learn from him.
The artist sparked a lively debate when he stated that the music of legendary Ghanaian artists like Stonebwoy, Shatta Wale, and Samini was not authentic but rather a flavor. Hezron promises to teach them the authentic reggae style, should they give him the opportunity.
Hezron suggested that dancehall music and reggae music should be given separate categories of awards, as they serve different purposes.
He described reggae music as full of peace, life, and freshness, and urged Ghanaians to promote all his music.
The artist’s main purpose for visiting Africa was to gain cultural experience, collaborate with local musicians, and give back to society.
Hezron advised Ghanaian musicians to put their best foot forward and do their music well, rather than reverting to highlife music.
Hezron’s visit to Ghana is expected to elevate the reggae music scene in the country.
With his rich cultural experience and authentic reggae style, Hezron is poised to make a lasting impact on the Ghanaian music industry, including Nigeria, Togo, Benin, and Côte d’Ivoire.
EK
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