Ghanaian dancehall artiste Epixode says his standing as one of Ghana’s standout live performers is the result of years of disciplined practice and a deep-rooted background in visual arts, which continues to shape his creative identity.
Speaking in a recent interview with Kafui Dey, he stressed that his concerts are intentionally crafted as multi-layered experiences where music, imagery and performance art merge rather than exist separately.
“I’m proud that I’m one of the best performers in Ghana. It’s not because I’ve said it but because I’ve seen what I’ve done with my performance over the years,” he said.
Epixode explained that his academic and practical exposure to the arts plays a defining role in how he develops stage concepts, helping him move from idea creation to full execution with a visual-first approach.
“My arts background also helped shape whatever concept I want to perform. When you come to Epixode’s concert, definitely, you will have a bit of Ragga, Afrobeats and arts. It’s not just listening to the music; you will see things,” he stated.
He added that every element of his stage presentation is carefully considered, including costumes, which he views as part of the storytelling rather than simple styling choices.
“Even the costume alone is another experience. I’m a whole record label,” he said.
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Tracing his journey back to childhood, Epixode revealed that his interest in art began long before his music career took centre stage, sparked by an early encounter that introduced him to drawing.
“When I was young, my mother was always on tour, so my aunt used to take me to school. One day, when my aunt took me to class, I met a guy who actually cartooned anything. He taught me how to draw and that’s where my arts started from,” he recounted.
He noted that his creative direction was not inherited but developed independently through curiosity and consistent exploration, eventually leading him to formally study art.
“I don’t know anyone in my family who draws, but I had to follow up from there. Then I decided to do arts in school,” he disclosed.
Music and visual art remain inseparable for Epixode, constantly influencing each other and shaping his overall creative output.
“With the arts, I think it’s just me trying to be curious about something and I want to create it. I have some of my music inspired by art. You can’t take art out of the music neither can you take music out of the art,” he further stated.