Pan-African Kuchoko/Reggae artist Blakk Rasta has stirred up social media after a video of his accapela performance, shared by Accra-based Citi FM, went viral.
The performance took place at NKRUMAHFEST, an annual event in Nkroful commemorating Kwame Nkrumah.
However, it wasn’t just the performance that caught people’s attention, but rather the bold choice of song, “THIEF PRESIDENT” especially given that former president John Mahama, who is running for office again, was in the audience.
The Lyrics of THIEF PRESIDENT criticize political leaders, with lines like:
“Mr President, why you dey lie so
Before election, you tell we you be angel
When you sick, you run go a London
When we sick, we die for Korle Bu.”
The chorus continues:
“See dem a come
Dem come in like an angel
But dem a thief
Dem know say
Dem a thief
Mr President, you coming like an angel
But you are a thief
You know say you are a thief.”
Blakk Rasta has emphasized on numerous occasions that the song isn’t directed at a single African president, but at multiple leaders across the continent, including Ghana’s sitting president, Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo.
He’s even referred to Akufo-Addo as “Mr. Sleepident,” mocking the president for appearing to sleep during public events.
Interestingly, former president Mahama was seen smiling throughout the performance, likely aware of who the song was targeting.
In a later interview, Blakk Rasta explained his song choice: “My music carries messages about patriotism and Afrocentrism.
I perform songs based on what the Holy Spirit of Jah inspires.
A few days ago, President Mahama mentioned how rampant corruption scandals have become in Ghana, to the point where the media has lost interest.
My performance was simply reiterating that, in honor of Osagyefo Dr. Kwame Nkrumah.”
After the event, Blakk Rasta was swarmed by fans eager for photos and autographs.
He is set to perform a full live set with his Herbalist band on Sunday, September 22, as part of the ongoing celebrations.
https://twitter.com/Citi973/status/1837482921843724758?
