Dr Cryme has expressed concern about the persistent tendency in Ghana’s music space to sideline its own ideas. He argues that his “Twi Pop” sound would have enjoyed wider acceptance if it had foreign roots.
The rapper, speaking during an interview on Angel FM in Kumasi, questioned why originality from within is often met with hesitation, while similar concepts from outside the country are quickly embraced. He described the pattern as frustrating and deeply rooted in audience behaviour.
“If a foreigner had created Twi Pop, we would have jumped on it,” he said.
He believes the genre’s struggle for acceptance is partly tied to its unfamiliarity. Twi Pop, he explained, does not neatly fit into the widely recognised Hiplife framework, which has made it harder for listeners to connect with it at first listen.
Beyond sound, Dr Cryme emphasised the importance of definition and identity in music. He argued that many genres only gain traction after they are properly named and shaped, noting that structure often gives direction to what already exists.
READ ALSO: Kisa Gbekle Addresses “Baby Mama” Tag And Her Unplanned Path To Motherhood
He referenced Reggie Rockstone’s role in shaping Hiplife, crediting him with giving the genre a clear identity that later helped it gain both local respect and international visibility.
“We cannot say Ghana music should be one style. Other countries have many genres that we even copy from,” he said.
Even with the slow pace of acceptance at home, the rapper is not backing down on his belief in the genre’s potential. He maintains that time could shift perceptions and is calling for more deliberate support for creatives who take risks.
“We would never know. Twi Pop might make waves in the years to come.
“Anyone who tries to be innovative should be supported. If we support outsiders more than our own, then we are not being fair,” he stated.
Dr Cryme described Twi Pop as a conscious blend of influences, designed to bridge cultures through sound. “The ‘Pop’ represents the foreign style, and the ‘Twi’ represents our local dialect,” he explained, adding that his aim is to make music rooted in Ghanaian language resonate on a global stage.
