BACKGROUND
Sarkodie, born Michael Owusu Addo on July 10, 1985, is the fourth of five children. He spent his early years in Koforidua before his family relocated to Tema, where he began his education. He completed his secondary education at Tema Methodist Day Senior High School and later pursued a degree in graphic design at IPMC College of Technology.
Sarkodie’s journey in music began as an underground rapper. He gained early recognition through participation in rap competitions, notably Adom FM’s Kasahare Level. During this period, he crossed paths with his former manager, Duncan Williams of Duncwills Entertainment. He also built connections with notable musicians Edem and Castro, who introduced him to renowned record producer Hammer of The Last Two. Impressed by Sarkodie’s rap skills, Hammer invited him to record two tracks for Edem’s debut album Volta Regime.
Now a global icon, Sarkodie has solidified his place as one of the most successful African rappers in history. Known for his versatility, he frequently incorporates his native Twi language into his music, further enhancing his unique sound. His influence on the Ghanaian music scene has garnered numerous accolades, including the coveted Vodafone Ghana Music Award (VGMA) for Artiste of the Decade. In 2019, he became the first recipient of the BET Hip Hop Award for Best International Flow. Sarkodie is also credited as a key proponent of the Azonto music genre and dance.
From 2009 – 2012
Sarkodie’s music career took off with his debut album, “Makye,” released in 2009. The album received critical acclaim and featured hits like “Baby” and “Push.” His unique style, blending traditional Ghanaian sounds with contemporary hip-hop, quickly gained him a massive following. The album was both a critical and commercial success, with hit singles such as “Baby” featuring Mugeez of R2Bees. The album firmly established Sarkodie as one of Ghana’s top emerging rappers. His lyricism and ability to blend Twi with English resonated with many fans, and the album is often regarded as a classic in Ghanaian hip hop.
Makye Album (2009)
Makye garnered widespread acclaim from both critics and fans alike. Sarkodie supported the album with a major concert at Holy City Gardens in Accra. On September 16, 2009, he shared the stage with Busta Rhymes at the “Busta Rhymes Live in Ghana” event. In 2010, two tracks from the album, “Push” and “Baby,” were ranked ninth and thirteenth, respectively, on Joy FM’s list of the Top 50 Songs of 2009. The lead single “Baby,” featuring Mugeez of R2Bees, quickly became a popular hit, significantly boosting Sarkodie’s visibility in the music scene.
Rapperholic | 2012
Sarkodie’s second studio album, Rapperholic, was released in 2012 and featured collaborations with notable artists such as Efya, Jayso, Mugeez (R2Bees), Obrafour, Chidynma and EL. The album was supported by popular singles, including “Good Bye”, “One Time For Your Mind”, “You Go Kill Me”, “Living Legend”, and “Onyame Ehyira”. It was well-received by critics and led Sarkodie on a nationwide promotional tour. Rapperholic played a key role in securing Sarkodie’s first BET Award nomination, which he later won. He was also featured in the BET Hip Hop Awards cypher alongside Talib Kweli, Jean Grae, and Ab-Soul, becoming the only African artist to participate.
Sarkordie At BET Hip Hop Awards | 2012
In July 2012, Sarkodie launched his Canadian tour, followed by a U.S. tour in August, where he performed in major cities such as New York, Ohio, New Jersey, Maryland, Atlanta, Chicago, Texas, and Massachusetts. Later that year, he performed alongside R2Bees, Fally Ipupa, and Iyanya at the Africa Unplugged Music Festival. Additionally, Sarkodie shared the stage with Ludacris at the 020 Live concerts, where they performed the track “How Low”.
From 2013–2014:
In 2013, Sarkodie released the remix of his hit single “You Go Kill Me,” featuring an array of star collaborators such as Wizkid, Ice Prince, Navio, and EL. The remix topped charts across Ghana, marking another milestone in his career. Following this, on January 2, 2014, Sarkodie launched his third studio album, Sarkology. This album, primarily performed in Twi, featured a host of major African artists including Fuse ODG, Davido, Tiwa Savage, 2Face Idibia, Banky W, Timaya, 2 Face Idibia, Efya, Mugeez, Obrafour, Burna Boy, Vivian Chidid, Vector, Silvastone, Sk Blinks, Stonebwoy, Joey B, J Town, Lil Shaker, Raquel, Sian, Kofi B and AKA, alongside production contributions from top producers like Killbeatz and Masterkraft. The album’s release was celebrated with a grand concert at the Accra Sports Stadium in December 2013.
Sarkology Album | 2014
Sarkodie had initially planned to release his album “Sarkology” by the end of 2013, with reports suggesting it would feature sixteen tracks. However, he later announced that the album would include 30 songs, with production contributions from 13 different producers, such as KillBeatz, Magnom, and Nshorna1.
On August 28, 2013, while in the U.K. for a video shoot, Sarkodie unveiled the album’s cover art. The cover depicts a young boy surrounded by school textbooks and other educational materials, which Sarkodie used to promote his clothing brand, Sark.
To promote the album, Sarkodie organized a concert named after the album, held at the Accra Sports Stadium on December 21, 2013. The event featured performances by Sarkodie himself, along with artists like Stay Jay, Kwaw Kese, Efya, Fuse ODG, Joey B, Raquel, Ephraim, Donzy, Dee Moneey, Buda, Mr. Silver, Phoot Printz, and Scizo.
Later in 2014, Sarkodie released the remix of his hit single “Adonai,” featuring Castro, which became a continental sensation and was recognized on BBC’s Capital Xtra’s Top 35 Afrobeats Songs. The song was a significant success and further established Sarkodie as a leading figure in African music. That same year, he launched his own record label, Sarkcess Music, and released several more tracks including “Megye Wo Girl” and “Love Rocks.
Sarkodie’s stage presence continued to grow as well. In 2014, he performed at the Ghana Music Awards and even shared the stage with American artist Miguel at the MTV Africa Music Awards, during which he also contributed to the DSTV “Africa Rising” campaign with artists like Davido and Tiwa Savage. Through these achievements, Sarkodie solidified his status as a pioneering artist in both Ghanaian and African music.
Album Review | Reception
“Sarkology” received generally positive reviews from music critics. Reviewers praised Sarkodie for his ability to blend hiplife and hip-hop seamlessly, without being confined to either genre. Jacob Roberts-Mensah and Ameyaw Debrah both awarded the album 9 out of 10 stars, highlighting Sarkodie’s rapid-fire rhymes and memorable lines.
Critics noted that the album showcased Sarkodie’s versatility, with tracks suitable for various moods and settings, from the barbershop to the gym. However, some reviewers felt that certain collaborations on the album did not live up to expectations.
From 2015–2018:
On June 10, 2015, Sarkodie dropped “New Guy,” a track featuring Ace Hood. This song, available digitally through Sarkcess Music and Ivy League Records, was co-written by Sarkodie and Ace Hood, with production by CedSolo. “New Guy” blends African hip hop and hip-hop elements, featuring alternating rap verses that highlight Sarkodie’s drive and ambition. The project kicked off in early 2015, with Sarkodie investing $25,000 in production costs. He specifically wanted Ace Hood on the track, considering him one of the most influential rappers globally.
Mary Album | 2015
Later that year, on September 12, Sarkodie released a live album titled “Mary,” named in honor of his late grandmother. The album’s lead single, “Mewu,” had been released two months earlier. To promote the album, Sarkodie held an autograph session at West Hills Mall in Accra, selling nearly 4,000 copies on the first day. In February 2016, he addressed Harvard Business School students, discussing the challenges of being an African musician in a speech titled “The Art of the Hustle,” followed by a performance.
Sarkodie’s fourth Rapperholic concert took place on Christmas Day, with tickets selling out within 72 hours. The event featured performances by artists like Fuse ODG, R2Bees, Wizkid, Samini, VVIP, Efya, and Shatta Wale. On March 11, 2016, Sarkodie performed with The Composers at the O2’s Indigo venue, hosted by DJ Abrantee.
Highest Album | 2017
On September 8, 2017, Sarkodie released his fifth studio album, “Highest,” which includes 19 tracks, three interludes, and a bonus track. Released through Sarkcess Music and Dice Recordings, the album features collaborations with Jesse Jagz, Moelogo, Flavour, Korede Bello, Victoria Kimani, and Big Narstie. The album’s production was primarily handled by Jayso, with contributions from Masterkraft, TSpize, Ced Solo, Nova, and Guilty Beatz.
2019:
Alpha | EP | 2019
In June 2019, Sarkodie released his debut extended play, “Alpha.” This 6-track EP includes collaborations with Joey B and the late Ebony Reigns. Sarkodie had hinted at his work with Reigns during a concert held in her memory.
BlackLove Album | 2019
Later that year, on December 20, 2019, Sarkodie unveiled his fifth studio album, “Black Love.” This album features a star-studded lineup of guest artists, including Mr Eazi, Efya, Donae’o, Idris Elba, Stonebwoy, Tekno, Maleek Berry, Herman Suede, King Promise, and Kizz Daniel. The album was promoted with singles like “Party & Bullshit,” “Saara,” “Do You,” and “Can’t Let Go.” In a November interview with OkayAfrica, Sarkodie shared that the album delves into themes of black love and relationships.
2021:
On April 19, 2021, Sarkodie announced his upcoming seventh studio album, “No Pressure,” with a teaser video on YouTube. As the release date approached, he initiated a 5-day countdown, leading up to the album’s launch on July 30, 2021.
No Pressure Album | 2021
Sarkodie’s album “No Pressure” was released on July 30, 2021. This album includes collaborations with artists such as Wale, Vic Mensa, Giggs, Cassper Nyovest, Harmonize, Oxlade, Kwesi Arthur, Darko Vibes, Medikal, and MOGmusic.
Some notable tracks from the album include:
The album has been praised for its diverse sound and Sarkodie’s lyrical prowess.
2022:
Jamz Album
In late 2022, Sarkodie released his album “Jamz”, which features collaborations with several prominent artists, including Black Sherif, King Promise, Inkboy, and other notable Nigerian musicians. The album includes standout tracks like “Labadi” featuring King Promise and “Countryside” featuring Black Sherif. “Countryside” even won the award for Best Collaboration at the 2023 Vodafone Ghana Music Awards.
2023:
Jamz World Tour
In September 2023, Sarkodie announced his JAMZ World Tour via his YouTube page. The tour saw him performing in several countries across Africa and Europe, including stops in the UK, France, Sweden, Denmark, Ireland, the Netherlands, and Germany.
At each location, Sarkodie delivered unforgettable performances, showcasing his exceptional talent and charismatic stage presence. However, he missed his scheduled show in Detroit due to flight issues. His flight had to make an emergency landing on an island in Portugal, and Sarkodie attributed the mishap to the airline
Recognition
- MTV Base ranked him sixth on its list of the Hottest African MCs in 2014.
- Lynx TV ranked him first on its list of the “Top 10 Ghanaian Rappers of All Time in 2013
- AfricaRanking.com ranked him third on its list of the “Top 10 African Rappers of 2015
- The Guardian listed him as one of its top five hip hop acts on the African continent in 2015
- Sarkodie was ranked 8th on Forbes and Channel O’s 2013 and 2015 list of the Top 10 Richest/Bankable African Artistes
- He won “Artiste of the Year” during the Ghana Music Awards USA (GMA USA) in 2020
- He has worked with various international musicians including E-40, and Ace hood
- He was also a featured artist on Jidenna’s Bambi Too, on which he was featured alongside Quavo.
Business career and endorsements
- Sarkodie owns the Sark by Yas clothing line, which was launched on 27 April 2013.
- He was officially unveiled as the Brand Ambassador for Samsung Electronics at the University of Ghana, Legon in 2012.
- He also launched the Obidi Chief headphones and signed an endorsement deal with FanMilk Ghana in 2013
- Sarkodie is currently in partnership with Tigo Telecommunications Ghana, a brand that sponsored his 2013 Rapperholic tour.
- Sarkodie also has endorsement deals with Standard Chartered Bank – a leading banking firm in Africa.
- Sarkodie has endorsement deals with Guinness Ghana Limited for their Malt drink product.
- On 30 October 2019, he was appointed as an ambassador for the Year of Return campaign; the honour was conferred on him at the Creative Arts Industry Forum.
- In March 2021, Sarkodie and his little daughter were featured in Ghana’s leading toothpaste brand – Pepsodent Ghana’s #BrushWithMe campaign ad.
Awards and nominations
| YEAR | NOMINEE | AWARD | RESULT |
| 2012 | Sarkodie | Best International Act: Africa | Won |
| 2014 | Sarkodie | Best International Act: Africa | Nominated |
| 2015 | Sarkodie | Best International Act: Africa | Nominated |
| YEAR | NOMINEE | AWARD | RESULT |
| 2012 | Sarkodie | Best Worldwide Act | Nominated |
| YEAR | NOMINEE | AWARD | RESULT |
| 2012 | Sarkodie | Non-Nigerian artist of the year | Won |
| YEAR | NOMINEE | AWARD | RESULT |
| 2012 | Sarkodie | Award for achievement in music | Won |
| YEAR | NOMINEE | AWARD | RESULT |
| 2013 | Sarkodie | Best West African Act | Won |
| YEAR | NOMINEE | AWARD | RESULT |
| 2014 | Sarkodie | Prize in Entertainment | Nominated |
| YEAR | NOMINEE | AWARD | RESULT |
| 2014 | Sarkodie | African Artist Of The Year | Won |
| YEAR | NOMINEE | AWARD | RESULT |
| 2016 | Sarkodie | Best Entertainer | Won |
| YEAR | NOMINEE | AWARD | RESULT |
| 2016 | Sarkodie | Top Subscribed Channel Ghana | Won |
| YEAR | NOMINEE | AWARD | RESULT |
| 2016 | Sarkodie | African Legend Artist Of The Year | Won |
| YEAR | NOMINEE | AWARD | RESULT |
| 2017 | Sarkodie | Best African Act | Won |
| YEAR | NOMINEE | Work | AWARD | RESULT |
| 2017 | Rapperholic concert | Ghana’s Favourite Event | Won |
| YEAR | NOMINEE | AWARD | RESULT |
| 2018 | Sarkodie Highest Overdose Fancy Gadam and Sarkodie | Hiplife/Hiphop Act Of The Year Album Of The Year Best Video Best Collaboration | Won Won Won Won |
| YEAR | NOMINEE | AWARD | RESULT |
| 2018 | Sarkodie Highest Sarkodie Sarkodie Sarkodie | Hiplife/Rap Act Album Of The Year Best Male Act Best Entertainer Of The Year Best Collaboration | Won Nominated Won Nominated Nominated |
| YEAR | NOMINEE | AWARD | RESULT |
| 2018 | Sarkodie | Best Male Artist Inspirational Music | Won |
| YEAR | NOMINEE | AWARD | RESULT |
| 2019 | Sarkodie | Best International Flow | Won |
| YEAR | NOMINEE | AWARD | RESULT |
| 2019 | Sarkodie | Best Hiphop Artist | Won |
| YEAR | NOMINEE | AWARD | RESULT |
| 2019 | Sarkodie | Africa HipHop Maestro | Won |
| YEAR | NOMINEE | Work | AWARD | RESULT |
| 2020 | Oofetsɔ | DJ Song Of The Year | Won |
| YEAR | NOMINEE | AWARD | RESULT |
| 2020 | Sarkodie Sarkodie Who Da Man Sarkodie and Efya Sark Nation | Hiplife/Hiphop Act Of The Year Music Man Of The Year Best Rap Performance Best Collaboration Fan Army Of The Year | Won Won Won Won Won |
| YEAR | NOMINEE | AWARD | RESULT |
| 2021 | Sarkodie Oofeetso Sarkodie Sarkodie and King Promise Sarkodie Oofeetso Sarkodie Sarkodie Black Love Sark Nation | Performer Of The Year Hiplife Song Of The Year Digital Act Of The Year Best Collaboration Artiste Of The Year Song Of The Year Hiplife/ HipHop Artiste Of The Year Rapper Of The Year Album Of The Year Fan Army Of The Year | Won Won Nominated Won Nominated Nominated Nominated Nominated Nominated Nominated |
| YEAR | NOMINEE | Work | AWARD | RESULT |
| 2021 | Black Love Virtual Concert | Best Virtual Showcase/Concert | Won |
| YEAR | NOMINEE | Work | AWARD | RESULT |
| 2021 | Black Love Virtual Concert | Event Of The Year | Won |
| YEAR | NOMINEE | AWARD | RESULT |
| 2022 | Rollies and Cigars Happy Day ft. Kuami Eugene Sarkodie Happy Day ft. Kuami Eugene Sarkodie Happy Day ft. Kuami Eugene Sarkodie Rollies and Cigars No Pressure Sark Nation Rollies and Cigars | Video of the Year Hiplife Song of the Year Digital Act Of The Year Best Collaboration of the Year Artiste Of The Year Song Of The Year Hiplife/Hip Hop Act of the Year Hip-Hop Song of the Year Album Of The Year Fan Army Of The Year Rapper of the Year | Won Won Nominated Nominated Nominated Nominated Nominated Nominated Nominated Nominated Nominated |
| YEAR | NOMINEE | AWARD | RESULT |
| 2010 | Sarkodie | Best Anglophone | Nominated |
| 2014 | Sarkodie | Best Hip Hop | Won |
| 2015 | Sarkodie | Best Male | Nominated |
| 2021 | Sarkodie | Listener’s Choice |
| YEAR | NOMINEE | AWARD | RESULT |
| 2015 | Sarkodie | Artist Of The Year | Won |
| 2017 | Sarkodie | Best Male Artist Honour | Won |
| YEAR | NOMINEE | AWARD | RESULT |
| 2013 | Sarkordie | Best African Artiste | —– |
| 2012 | Sarkordie | African Artist of the Year | Won |
| 2014 | Sarkordie | African Artist of the Year | Won |
| 2015 | Sarkordie | African Artist of the Year | Won |
| 2016 | Sarkodie | Best African Artiste | —– |