A-PLUS, arguably the most kanawu contemporary Ghanaian musician is causing a sensation with his latest single which focuses on the 18-man race for the NPP flagbearership, urging congress delegates to “chop proper” monies offered to them without allowing the cash to influence them.
His latest single, which is expected to hit the streets next week, is not that different from his usual satirical dig at politicians. The song, which has been promoted on radio, praises Prof Kofi Agyekum (of Peace FM fame), Ama Benyiwa Doe, Prof Mills, Kweku Baako, Kwesi Pratt and even Kwami Sefa-Kayi’s bald head. But, it ends up urging NPP delegates to vote for Nana Akufo-Addo “for the sake of Ghana” as their presidential candidate to face Prof Mills and the others in 12 months time.
The dance song suggests that the other aspirants in the NPP presidential nomination, whose names are mentioned in the chorus, would be very happy if Nana Akufo-Addo emerges as the winner on December 22.
Apparently, the lyrics have not gone down well with some aspirants, notably Boakye Kyeremanteng Agyarko, who has been speaking on radio stations against the use of his name in the song. But, the singer is unrepentant. Speaking on Citi FM and Oman FM yesterday, the musician said he could not fathom what the fuss was all about. “I’ve heard all the aspirants saying they are prepared to accept and work with whoever wins the nomination. And, I believe them. I’m only adding to this,” the artiste explains.
A-Plus goes on to warn NPP delegates not to see the leadership race as a beauty contest. “If that was the case Obasanjo would not have been voted Nigerian President,” he states in the song.
He says he has not been contracted by the presidential candidate to compose a campaign song for him. “I’m only exercising my freedom of speech and opinion to say that in my mind Nana Akufo-Addo is the best among the lot. The same way I thought Prof Mills was the best among the NDC lot.”
He adds, “I’m neither NPP nor NDC. I’m just a very conscious Ghanaian patriot who wants quality leadership for our country. I haven’t even met Nana Addo, he didn’t know I was doing a song that was favourable to him. I’ve only received calls from people around him congratulating me for this initiative.” In the song, he reminds Ghanaians of the selfless sacrifices that Nana Akufo-Addo has made for the nation’s good.
However, he contrasts it with that of an unnamed candidate who “if not by the grace of President Kufuor could not even boast of a record as a school prefect.”
Previous songs that have stirred up controversy include Age Gon!, Mesuro nsuoo na mee keka yi, Nea Mobeka biaa yese hmm, and Letter to Parliament.