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	<title>Ghanalinx &#187; Artists Abroad</title>
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	<link>http://www.ghanalinx.com</link>
	<description>Blogsite for Ghanaians abroad which provides updated ghana news, events, entertainment and more</description>
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		<title>Gospel Sensation Comfort Osei-Owusu Releases Her 4th Album</title>
		<link>http://www.ghanalinx.com/2010/07/20/gospel-sensation-comfort-osei-owusu-releases-her-4th-album/</link>
		<comments>http://www.ghanalinx.com/2010/07/20/gospel-sensation-comfort-osei-owusu-releases-her-4th-album/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Tue, 20 Jul 2010 06:18:50 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>G.O</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Artists Abroad]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[gospel music]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[comfort osei owusu]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.ghanalinx.com/?p=6416</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[The woman of praise has done it again with her fourth (4th) and latest CD;  AGAPE LOVE.  This twelve (12) track praise and worship CD is guaranteed to keep you both on your feet and knees. Madam Comfort  is not only a blessing to her fans but to her generation.  “The Woman of Praise” as she is affectionately called [...]]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p><img class="size-medium wp-image-6417 alignleft" title="IMG_0221_014 (1) [640x480]" src="http://www.ghanalinx.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/07/IMG_0221_014-1-640x480-228x300.jpg" alt="" width="228" height="300" />The woman of praise has done it again with her fourth (4th) and latest CD;  AGAPE LOVE.  This twelve (12) track praise and worship CD is guaranteed to keep you both on your feet and knees.</p>
<p>Madam Comfort  is not only a blessing to her fans but to her generation.  “The Woman of Praise” as she is affectionately called by her fans won this title because of her beautiful “David dance” moves during praise and worship at her church or whiles performing.  Her music packs a gospel style of songs in sermonette singing that involves the spoken word and dramatic acting which was developed from her life experiences and journeys throughout the world.</p>
<p>In 2000 Comfort brought us her first CD “Time Changes” which made it to the top of the gospel charts both in Ghana and the US.  Her second album “Dream Maker” did well also and then came “Hyira Me” (Bless Me) her third album which debut the hit songs, “Sankofa” and No Prayer No Power.</p>
<p>Comfort’s determination and passion for her music led her to start the Empowered By Praise International Ministries which main focus is to encourage, enlighten, and empower all people especially women and children with the word of God and the sure promises of God through music.</p>
<p>The  AGAPE LOVE cd will encourage you, it will empower you,  it will heal your broken heart and mend your weary soul.  The first reggae track Call Jesus gives a number to call Him in time of need.   Holy Joy gives us hope in Christ.  Other powerful songs in English and Twi include, Good God,  Nyame do me, Prophesy, Boni Ben?  The title track Agape Love talks about the joys and contentment in experiencing the love of God.  Get your copy now and your life will never be the same.</p>
<p><span id="more-6416"></span></p>
<p>Mama Connie works as a Respiratory Therapist after graduating from Morgan State University in Baltimore, Maryland USA.    Her life has not been easy but she is  blessed with a wonderful family and living her dream and passion of being a Woman of Praise;  a title that comes with having the peace and joy of God that surpasses all understanding.  This is also her wish for you her dear listeners.</p>
<p>Written by: Richard Imoh Akpan</p>
<p><img class="alignnone size-full wp-image-6419" title="IMG_0219_012 [640x480]" src="http://www.ghanalinx.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/07/IMG_0219_012-640x480.jpg" alt="" width="336" height="480" /><br />
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		<title>Exclusive Ghanalinx Interview with Quabena Maphia</title>
		<link>http://www.ghanalinx.com/2010/04/29/exclusive-ghanalinx-interview-with-quabena-maphia/</link>
		<comments>http://www.ghanalinx.com/2010/04/29/exclusive-ghanalinx-interview-with-quabena-maphia/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Fri, 30 Apr 2010 01:36:56 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>G.O</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Artists Abroad]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[ET News]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[videos]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[ghanalinx interviews]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[ghanalinxtv]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[maphia]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[quabena maphia]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.ghanalinx.com/?p=5957</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[Ms Kandy Sharl from Ghanalinx.com sat down with Ghanaian artist Quabena Maphia from Canada for this exclusive interview. Big thank you to Quabena Maphia for making this exclusive interview possible and our production crew AYP Productions. Part I Part II Part III]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p><img class="alignleft size-medium wp-image-5958" title="vlcsnap-778663" src="http://www.ghanalinx.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/04/vlcsnap-778663-300x200.png" alt="" width="300" height="200" />Ms Kandy Sharl from Ghanalinx.com sat down with Ghanaian artist Quabena Maphia from Canada for this exclusive interview.</p>
<p>Big thank you to Quabena Maphia for making this exclusive interview possible and our production crew AYP Productions.</p>
<p><strong>Part I<br />
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<p>Part II<br />
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<p>Part III<br />
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		<title>AO Gorman &#8211; Aspiring Artist From Toronto, Canada</title>
		<link>http://www.ghanalinx.com/2010/02/23/ao-gorman-aspiring-artist-from-toronto-canada/</link>
		<comments>http://www.ghanalinx.com/2010/02/23/ao-gorman-aspiring-artist-from-toronto-canada/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Tue, 23 Feb 2010 16:34:44 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>G.O</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Artists Abroad]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Entertainment]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[AO gorman]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[ghana artist]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[ghanaian artist abroad]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.ghanalinx.com/?p=5432</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[Albert Okwasi Gorman will be known in the music industry as Young AO. He is the Ghana-born, Toronto-raised rapper who has been consistently on his grind, both in and out of his hometown for the past few years. Now preparing to release another mix-tape this spring titled, ‘Sky High’, he remains focused on the bigger [...]]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p><img class="alignleft size-full wp-image-5433" title="youngao" src="http://www.ghanalinx.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/02/youngao.jpg" alt="youngao" width="402" height="604" /><br />
Albert Okwasi Gorman will be known in the music industry as Young AO. He is the Ghana-born, Toronto-raised rapper who has been consistently on his grind, both in and out of his hometown for the past few years. Now preparing to release another mix-tape this spring titled, ‘Sky High’, he remains focused on the bigger picture- his official album release, executive-produced by one Toronto’s elite beat makers, T-Nyce. He’s in a good position; currently riding of the hype of his well received ‘Ready for Takeoff’ mix-tape that dropped last year which spawned the popular ‘Ryderz Remix’ featuring Chubbz, OG, Jonny Roxx, Jaydahmann &amp; Frankie Payne (produced by T-Nyce).</p>
<p>At a young age he experienced the break-up of his family unit and briefly lived in a shelter with his mother &amp; step-brother. More than a decade later, he is once again a witness to the dissolve of yet another tight circle – his family unit with the friends with whom he originally formed an entertainment company, Topflight Entertainment. Determined to keep it moving, he traveled to his home country last year where he left an impressionable impact.</p>
<p>He collaborated with hit makers of &#8220;Lyk Father Lyk Son&#8221; (Konfi Muzuk), one of the most popular tracks circulating on the Ghana airwaves in the summer of 2009. They recorded the song “Yewo Town” which he describes is his home-town as a “street anthem”. Due to the success of the single, he was featured on Ghanacelebrities.com; a popular website which highlights Ghanaian talent, locally and abroad.</p>
<p>Still making appearances in and around Toronto, as well as over-seas, he is featured on DJ Flacco’s &#8220;Come Up&#8221; mix-tape and Slip &amp; Slide’s DJ Swiss Ivory’s mix-tape &#8220;The Showcase Mix-tape Vol. 58&#8243;. He’s on the right track to achieving his 5 year goal of becoming an international artist. He is embracing changes in his life as he matures. “I was raised in the hood so I still have those experiences to convey in my music, but as I grow I feel more comfortable being able to talk about new topics such as world &amp; political issues. Also, doing mix-tapes allows me to experiment with different new sounds &amp; styles”. Keep your eyes &amp; ears on Young AO because you never know where he’ll end up next.</p>
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		<title>Quabena Jay aka Maphia</title>
		<link>http://www.ghanalinx.com/2010/02/14/quabena-jay-aka-maphia/</link>
		<comments>http://www.ghanalinx.com/2010/02/14/quabena-jay-aka-maphia/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Sun, 14 Feb 2010 16:39:44 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>G.O</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Artists Abroad]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Afro entertainment]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[ghana music]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Ghanaian artists]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Ghanaians Abroad]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[hiplife music]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[kwabena jay]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[maphia]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[quabena jay]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://culturelinx.com/ghana/?p=2177</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[The ladies call him A.J&#8230;his stage name KWABENA JAY&#8230;On the streets, he&#8217;s known as Maphia&#8230;.Can&#8217;t say it enough but this is the newest and hottest sensation to hit the music industry. Very few people make waves both in front and behind the scenes. The recent trend to hiplife tunes prove what visionaries like the godfather [...]]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p><img class="size-full wp-image-2188 alignleft" title="Afro Ent and Maphia" src="/wp-content/uploads/2009/02/jay11.jpg" alt="jay11" width="404" height="204" /><img class="size-full wp-image-2189 alignleft" src="/wp-content/uploads/2009/02/jay2.jpg" alt="" width="401" height="604" />The ladies call him A.J&#8230;his stage name KWABENA JAY&#8230;On the streets, he&#8217;s  known as Maphia&#8230;.Can&#8217;t say it enough but this is the newest and hottest  sensation to hit the music industry.</p>
<p>Very few people make waves both in  front and behind the scenes. The recent trend to hiplife tunes prove what  visionaries like the godfather Reggie Rockstone said about how dynamic this  genre was going to be.</p>
<p>Listening to Quabena Jay popularly known in  showbiz circles as Maphia spit out his lyrics will make you fall in love with  hiplife music for the first time in your life.<br />
Quabena Jay (Maphia) is  one of the best individual singing rappers of all time since he kicked in the  door of the hiplife scene. Definitely by now, you’ve seen or heard ‘Akokora  Bone’ on TV or Radio. Everywhere you go be it the pool side, club, gas station  or school, they are talking about Quabena Jay or politics.</p>
<p>Things seem to  come easy to the biggest, hottest and sexy new sensation in Ghana the last  couple of years. I will admit that where the list of lyrical MC’s is debated,  his name is somewhere near the top.</p>
<p>To many, Quabena Jay represents the  hope for hiplife and he’s not been afraid to bear this title.<br />
Quabena Jay  has always made music for party people. Watching ‘Akokora Bone’ tells you of his  ability to act out everyday events with the originality his contemporaries  lacked.</p>
<p>His maturity as a singer and rapper manifests itself in more ways  than one on ‘Twa Me Last’, which features the hiplife destroyer  Castro.</p>
<p>Hiplife and rap can’t be anything without Quabena Jay who has  survived everything from criticism to laughs after his critics believed he would  not come to the top of the game.</p>
<p><span id="more-2177"></span></p>
<p>Hiplife  has definitely come to stay with Quabena Jay in the picture. In 2009, during his recent trip to Ghana, Maphia collaborated with hiplife superstars like Sakordie, Sway and Asem. CHECK OUT HIS NEW VIDEO SHOT IN GHANA FEATURING THE GODFATHER OF HIPLIFE, RIGGIE ROCKSTONE.</p>
<p style="text-align: center;">
<p><object classid="clsid:d27cdb6e-ae6d-11cf-96b8-444553540000" width="560" height="340" codebase="http://download.macromedia.com/pub/shockwave/cabs/flash/swflash.cab#version=6,0,40,0"><param name="allowFullScreen" value="true" /><param name="allowscriptaccess" value="always" /><param name="src" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/W84t9aBM_zY&amp;hl=en_US&amp;fs=1&amp;rel=0" /><param name="allowfullscreen" value="true" /><embed type="application/x-shockwave-flash" width="560" height="340" src="http://www.youtube.com/v/W84t9aBM_zY&amp;hl=en_US&amp;fs=1&amp;rel=0" allowscriptaccess="always" allowfullscreen="true"></embed></object></p>
<p><object classid="clsid:d27cdb6e-ae6d-11cf-96b8-444553540000" width="425" height="344" codebase="http://download.macromedia.com/pub/shockwave/cabs/flash/swflash.cab#version=6,0,40,0"><param name="allowFullScreen" value="true" /><param name="allowscriptaccess" value="always" /><param name="src" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/5wH87SjsGNY&amp;hl=en&amp;fs=1&amp;rel=0&amp;color1=0x5d1719&amp;color2=0xcd311b" /><param name="allowfullscreen" value="true" /><embed type="application/x-shockwave-flash" width="425" height="344" src="http://www.youtube.com/v/5wH87SjsGNY&amp;hl=en&amp;fs=1&amp;rel=0&amp;color1=0x5d1719&amp;color2=0xcd311b" allowscriptaccess="always" allowfullscreen="true"></embed></object></p>
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		<title>Spek won &#8211; Hiplife (Video)</title>
		<link>http://www.ghanalinx.com/2009/11/17/spek-won-hiplife/</link>
		<comments>http://www.ghanalinx.com/2009/11/17/spek-won-hiplife/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Tue, 17 Nov 2009 05:12:30 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>G.O</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Artists Abroad]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Entertainment]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[videos]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[ghana hiplife]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[ghanaian artist in toronto]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Ghanaian artists]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[hiplife]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[jd era]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[kid kut]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[kwadjo cinqo]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[rochester]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[spek won]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.ghanalinx.com/?p=4316</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[Spek Won, the up and coming rising star from Toronto, Canada brings you this hot new video called Hiplife. Cameo appearances by: ROCHESTER, JD ERA, KWADJO CINQO, KID KUT, THE VOYCE, TONE MASON, LICOLN, RGG, LOGIKAL ETHIX, LORD QUEST, REGULAR ROBB, plus many moreDirected by Hatch X longfieldfilms.com http://www.myspace.com/spekwonmusic Born in the west end of [...]]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p><img class="alignleft size-large wp-image-4327" title="spek-won2" src="http://www.ghanalinx.com/wp-content/uploads/2009/10/spek-won2-682x1024.jpg" alt="spek-won2" width="316" height="473" />Spek Won, the up and coming rising star from Toronto, Canada brings you this hot new video called Hiplife.</p>
<p>Cameo appearances by: ROCHESTER, JD ERA, KWADJO CINQO, KID KUT, THE VOYCE, TONE MASON, LICOLN, RGG, LOGIKAL ETHIX, LORD QUEST, REGULAR ROBB, plus many moreDirected by Hatch X longfieldfilms.com</p>
<p><a title="http://www.myspace.com/spekwonmusic" dir="ltr" rel="nofollow" href="http://www.myspace.com/spekwonmusic" target="_blank">http://www.myspace.com/spekwonmusic</a><br />
Born in the west end of Toronto, Spek Won is an ambitious,disciplined, and focused artist and rapper. His dynamic personality is second only to his explosive, magnetic and distinctive lyrical style. Growing up in the Rexdale/Willowridge community, with its blend of Afro-Caribbean culture, along with his strong Ghanian heritage, has greatly influenced Spek Won&#8217;s unique sound. His ability to combine the styles of Classic Hip Hop, Reggae and Ghanian Hip-Life sets him apart from other artists in the music industry. As Hip Hop expands further into the international realm, Spek Won&#8217;s sound and style is not merely a reflection of this change and growth within Hip Hop, but with his ability to preempt this change he will no doubt be recognized as a pioneer of this movement. Growing up at the birth and rise of Hip Hop Spek Won understands the power it can have on a person&#8217;s life, Hip Hop grew with him, therefore his influences, the grand masters of the art cannot be mistaken in his sound or lyrics.</p>
<p>Spek has the addictive and imaginative sounds and stylings of Hip Hop mavericks Nas and Outkast; the lyrical potency of Cash and Dylan, and the charm and ease of Old Skool rappers; all culminating in an explosive and dynamic sound that can only be described as spectacular and wonderful. Spek Won&#8217;s music cannot be confined within one category or definition, his mantra, write what you know translates in his raps about the realities of growing up, he raps uninhibited, of being Ghanaian as heard in Ghana Bre(a)d, defining one&#8217;s self and their place in the world as in Legal Rifle, he also raps of loss, hope and pride in being unique and standing apart. In short his versatility has no bounds, or restrictions. His interests are not only in front of the mike, but also behind the music. Spek&#8217;s passion lies in all aspects of creating music and is constantly developing and perfecting his craft. Spek has contributed as a producer and engineer to the works of other artists such as Ghetto Concept, Ray Robinson and Kid Kut at Play Ground Studios. Spek Won has traveled around Southern Ontario and the United States, participating in multiple showcases like GhanaFest in New Jersey. He has built an ever growing loyal fan base with each show, and will no doubt become a recognized and revered name in music in upcoming years. Spek Won&#8217;s talent is undeniable and an increasing force to be reckoned in the music industry.</p>
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		<title>Flexy A.k.a Da Godson Representing Ghanaians in Canada</title>
		<link>http://www.ghanalinx.com/2009/10/08/flexy-a-k-a-da-godson-representing-ghanaians-in-canada/</link>
		<comments>http://www.ghanalinx.com/2009/10/08/flexy-a-k-a-da-godson-representing-ghanaians-in-canada/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Fri, 09 Oct 2009 03:52:11 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>G.O</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Artists Abroad]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Entertainment]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[flexy da godson]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[ghana entertainment]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[ghanaian artist in toronto]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Ghanaian artists]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[godson flexy]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[oddruff]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.ghanalinx.com/?p=4349</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[Flexy Da Godson (or simply Flexy) also known as SlimFlex is the new rising sensation in the new African Hip Life music. Hip Life music is a new innovative fusion of West African High Life music with Hip Hop. Hip Life also utilizes Western and Caribbean sounds and musical styles and are usually sung in [...]]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p><img class="alignleft size-large wp-image-4350" title="godsonflexy" src="http://www.ghanalinx.com/wp-content/uploads/2009/10/flexx-682x1024.jpg" alt="godsonflexy" width="344" height="514" />Flexy Da Godson (or simply Flexy) also known as SlimFlex is the new rising sensation in the new African Hip Life music. Hip Life music is a new innovative fusion of West African High Life music with Hip Hop. Hip Life also utilizes Western and Caribbean sounds and musical styles and are usually sung in pidgin English (West African Patua) and sometimes native African dialects. The name &#8220;Flexy&#8221; was given to him by his friends because of his versatile musical styles.</p>
<p>Flexy was born Felix Akwasi Appiah-Korang in Accra Ghana on November 29th. Flexy&#8217;s talent became obvious since childhood, as he will often impress his parents and peers with his music. He would sometimes perform with his brothers who are equally talented just like him. From West Africa to North America, Flexy has been described as the ambassador of Hip Life music and the king of African Dancehall.</p>
<p>Flexy displays an uncanny dedication to his career of choice as an artist. Although a new emerging artist in the Canadian and African music scene, Flexy&#8217;s fans stretch all the way from North America to Africa. Haven release his debut album titled &#8220;Odehyea&#8221; in April 2007, Flexy is by no means relenting, as he is constantly writing new songs for more albums to come. Flexy&#8217;s record label OddRuff Inc. is currently working on a compilation album scheduled to be released in April 2009. This album features recordings of all artists under the label. This sixteen (16) track compilation album, features three (3) songs performed by Flexy. Flexy&#8217;s three (3) songs in the compilation titled &#8220;I Love You&#8221; &#8220;Yearning For You&#8221; and &#8220;Roll&#8221; have all been described as having all the elements of a hit song. In no doubt, this artist is on his way to leaving his mark in the Canadian and African music industry.</p>
<p><span id="more-4349"></span></p>
<p>Flexy&#8217;s venture into music dates back to the mid 1990s in Ghana. As a young artist growing up in Ghana, his talent as a singer could not be beat. Every country has its own child star, but few treat their prodigies with respect like Ghana. The many talent competitions where he excelled, helped to shape this artist into a future star in the making. Flexy is an artist who is highly respected, worshipped and adored by those who have closely watched his career as it developed. In 1988, this young aspiring musician heard of rap music. Since then, he challenged himself to becoming the best rapper someday. He attended Mfantsipim College in Cape Coast Ghana with Hip-life icons like Bice Kuffour (Obour) and Kokoveli who greatly influenced his music. Although currently pursuing a Busines Administration program at Humber College in Toronto, Canada, Flexy still dedicate a lot of time to his music career. As well as being a song writer, Flexy plays other instruments like the piano, sax, drum and bass guitar. He likes to help other artists with song writing, arrangement and production. In 2004 while in Ghana, he co-produced the current Double Dee album titled &#8220;Montie&#8221;.</p>
<p>In Canada, Flexy is a Hip Life icon in the African community in the Greater Toronto area, as well as being the youth choir director at his local church. Flexy&#8217;s debut album &#8220;Odehyea&#8221; released in April 2007, boasts of tracks like &#8220;Baby Girl&#8221; and &#8220;Ngyea Memu&#8221; which are all hits in Ghana. Although very active over the years primarily in his native Ghana community music scene, Flexy is by no means a local champion, as he has set his mind on conquering the rest of the world with his versatile and multi dimensional musical styles. As a young child growing up in Ghana, Flexy counts Gregory Isaac, Lucky Dube, Sonny Okosun, Bob Marley, Fela Ransome Kuti and King Sunny Ade as some of the musical icons who greatly influenced his music. Due to his very versatile nature as an artist and the many great artists who influenced his career, today, Flexy is popularly referred to as the king of African dancehall music. According to Flexy Through my music I will put Ghana on the international music map.</p>
<p>listen to Yearning for you</p>
<p>Listen to Roll by flexy</p>
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		<title>Erik Flowchild &#8211; Rising Ghanaian Artist From Canada</title>
		<link>http://www.ghanalinx.com/2009/09/21/erik-flowchild-rising-ghanaian-artist-from-canada/</link>
		<comments>http://www.ghanalinx.com/2009/09/21/erik-flowchild-rising-ghanaian-artist-from-canada/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Tue, 22 Sep 2009 01:16:12 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>G.O</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Artists Abroad]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Entertainment]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.ghanalinx.com/?p=4097</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[Erik Flowchild. Equipped with a witty flow, evident potential, and fresh approach to the craft of rhyme writing, he is held in high regard by his peers who see him as talented, determined, and resourceful. Flowchild (Born Eric Asante) was born to be different. Deemed a ‘miracle baby’ by his uncle, he is destined to [...]]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p><img class="alignnone size-full wp-image-4098" title="flowchild" src="http://www.ghanalinx.com/wp-content/uploads/2009/09/flowchild.jpg" alt="flowchild" width="598" height="385" /></p>
<p>Erik Flowchild. Equipped with a witty flow, evident potential, and fresh approach to the craft of rhyme writing, he is held in high regard by his peers who see him as talented, determined, and resourceful.</p>
<p>Flowchild (Born Eric Asante) was born to be different. Deemed a ‘miracle baby’ by his uncle, he is destined to make things happen for himself and for his world around him. It is no surprise why Erik Flowchild prides himself as one of Canada’s top young lyricists: He’s been writing lyrics since the 2nd grade.</p>
<p>“I wasn’t messing with producers when I was seven. I was writing to music I would find while playing video games. I’d look for anything that caught my ear while I was playing a certain level by going into the sound menu. Game Gear and my N64 were my producers.”</p>
<p><span id="more-4097"></span></p>
<p>At 19 he has pursued and garnered industry attention, collaborated with Kanye West’s G.O.O.D Music family (via Big Sean), and received major co-signs from the likes of DJ Jaguar Skills and Grammy award winning Chrisette Michele.</p>
<p>Currently he is working on The Delivery Boy, a mixtape that will serve the purpose of proving his musical skill set, especially in the area of his delivery – an area that many industry insiders could once easily critique. Nowadays, it’s a little more challenging to do that.</p>
<p>That’s what happens when you listen to constructive criticism. Flowchild&#8217;s &#8216;Over Here&#8217; serves as the intro to the new and improved artist. “They say a little nigga can’t step to the pros,” he admits on the unique record produced by Mike Schembri and Miguel Culajay of Da Funky Situation. But he immediately follows with the question: “Is that so?&#8221;</p>
<p>If you’re really listening, you’ll know that question is nothing short of rhetorical.</p>
<p>The Delivery Boy is due late 2009.</p>
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		<title>Upcoming Artist From Canada &#8211; Freeman aka Flexx</title>
		<link>http://www.ghanalinx.com/2009/09/07/freeman/</link>
		<comments>http://www.ghanalinx.com/2009/09/07/freeman/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Tue, 08 Sep 2009 04:44:08 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>G.O</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Artists Abroad]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Entertainment]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[freeman aka flexxy]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://culturelinx.com/ghana/?p=3861</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[Believe it or not.There are so many talented Ghanaian Canadians getting discovered everyday. NO wonder why many critics believe that Hip life is not dead but rather living in the Northern part of Canada. In an oversaturated industry of Entertainment, this up coming artist &#8220;FREEMAN&#8221; distinguishes himself from the rest as a consistent artist performing [...]]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p><img class="alignleft size-full wp-image-3862" title="freeman-2" src="http://www.ghanalinx.com/wp-content/uploads/2009/09/freeman-2.jpg" alt="freeman-2" />Believe it or not.There are so many talented Ghanaian Canadians getting discovered everyday. NO wonder why many critics believe that Hip life is not dead but rather living in the Northern part of Canada.</p>
<p>In an oversaturated industry of Entertainment, this up coming artist &#8220;FREEMAN&#8221; distinguishes himself from the rest as a consistent artist performing rhyming swag of English, hauza and twi. Leaving his listeners in awe from the infinite pleasant sounding quality of songs that he provides. It is pooling with charisma with many meaningful contents that was designed to surely satisfy the mind of a Hiplife and hiphop Lovers.</p>
<p>Freeman who is currently part of the &#8220;You Never Know Entertainment&#8221; , is going to release his first mix album &#8220;Yedebedi Asa&#8221; this fall of 2009 which is promised to be the most anticipated mixtape featuring ,<strong>Andriana, Shoalin,Kidd Blitz,Redd Ice, Akyekyedee , Big Shaq of  fac Bois, Soulfoul, Maphia aka Quabena Jay, Nana NYC And G-Solo  . His songs are recieving heavy notations on radios all over Canada as well as Ghana. Check out and see more of &#8220;Freeman&#8221; on Facebook(flexx oppong freeman) and My Space (myspace.com/freemanakaflexx</strong></p>
<p>Written By:K.Carter/Sheryl Papp(YNKE)</p>
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		<title>David Mensah out with ‘Music is The Food of Love’</title>
		<link>http://www.ghanalinx.com/2009/09/03/david-mensah-out-with-%e2%80%98music-is-the-food-of-love%e2%80%99/</link>
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		<pubDate>Thu, 03 Sep 2009 06:17:06 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>G.O</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Artists Abroad]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[ET News]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Entertainment]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[david mensah]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[food of love]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[ghana linx]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[ghanaian artist abroad]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[ghanaian artist in uk]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[universal musisc]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://culturelinx.com/ghana/?p=3806</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[UK’s new R&#38;B sensation, David Mensah continues to rise after his song ‘Food of Love’ was released through Universal Music in 2008. ‘Food of Love’ was his contribution to a compilation album called “A Change is Gonna Come” which was recorded to commemorate the 200 year anniversary of the abolition of the slave trade. Born [...]]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p><img class="alignleft size-full wp-image-3807" title="davidmensah" src="http://www.ghanalinx.com/wp-content/uploads/2009/09/davidmensah.jpg" alt="davidmensah" />UK’s new R&amp;B sensation, David Mensah continues to rise after his song ‘<em>Food of Love</em>’ was released through Universal Music in 2008. <em>‘Food of Love</em>’ was his contribution to a compilation album called “<em>A Change is Gonna Come</em>” which was recorded to commemorate the 200 year anniversary of the abolition of the slave trade.</p>
<p>Born to a Ghanaian father and a British mother, David draws from an eclectic mix of influences from all over the world when it comes to his music. He has been called the UK version of Avant while others draw comparisons to John Legend. Then again, some people have even mentioned Luther Vandross in their description of the music that he makes. “I never really go in to the studio with a set brief, I prefer to keep an open mind and let the song happen organically. However to someone who has never heard my music I would say that it is soulful R&amp;B with elements of Jazz”, he says.<span id="more-3806"></span></p>
<p>Not too long ago, ‘<em>My Day</em>’, the first single from his upcoming album was released amidst amazing responses. In the first week it went straight to number 1 on an independent UK music chart from Textatrack. The song attracted great interest from some of the UK’s leading Dj’s, climbing to the number 10 spot on the Solar Radio Sweet Rhythm Chart and number 11 on the Starpoint Radio Official UK Soul Chart.</p>
<p>His debut album “<em>Music is the Food of Love</em>” was released on VME records on August 31. The 14-track album is simply what the title suggests it to be, a true embodiment of music that touches the soul and relaxes the mind. It opens with ‘<em>We’re Gonna Take You Back</em>’ a throwback intro that is reminiscent of soul, funk and jazz that has shaped ‘black’ music over the years. It delightfully rises through to the end where he signs off with a techno mix of ‘My Day’.</p>
<p>Jamati Online caught up with him earlier in 2007 to find out about his journey then. With work on his debut album complete, we caught up with him again to find out more about his album and the creative process behind it.</p>
<p><strong><br />
Jamati: What inspired your new album?</strong></p>
<p>I am inspired by all kinds of things from the people around me and situations I have been through to my observations about life in general. I prefer to write about subjects that mean something to me. You could say that my album is like a journey through my mind. It could be a situation I have been through as in my song “<em>Friends with Benefits</em>” or maybe an observation I have made about the world around me as in the song “<em>My Day</em>“. “<em>My Day</em>” is all about how we interact with each other. I was sitting waiting for a tube in London and thinking how people don’t interact with each other, no good morning, no smile, no acknowledgement and it struck me how much better it would be if we just learned to smile at one another and the song came from that.</p>
<p><strong><br />
Jamati: What can we expect from the album?</strong><br />
I am very excited about my debut album. Most of the production is from Wayne Brown. I also worked with US Billboard chart topping producer, Coptic, as well as renowned Danish producer, Jimmy Antony, who most recently worked with soul legend, Gregory Abbott. It was amazing to get to work with three different producers on the project because they all managed to get something different from me. I wrote the majority of the songs myself but also recorded a song penned by Wayne Brown and 3-time Grammy nominee, Jonathan Butler, as well as the classic soul cut “<em>Whatever It Takes</em>”, co-written by Junior Giscombe and Wayne Brown. Even though the album doesn’t come out until 31st August I have been very lucky in that the radio response has been fantastic. Both “<em>Food of Love</em>” and “<em>My Day</em>” have been represented in the soul charts here in the UK and played on radio all over the world. It is amazing to think that my music has reached places I have never even been to.</p>
<p><strong><br />
Jamati: What influences your music generally?</strong></p>
<p>I have always been around music and I think that definitely manifests itself in the music I make. Growing up my Dad was a soul Dj, he had so many records that he almost needed another house just to keep them in. My mum was more of a reggae fan and in the 80’s there always seemed to be a reggae version of the soul songs that came out. And I can’t forget the highlife music that my Grandmother would play.</p>
<p><strong>J</strong><strong>amati: How long have you been performing?</strong></p>
<p>I have been singing for as long as I can remember. I didn’t really take it too seriously at first–I just loved the feeling of expressing myself through music. I sang in the school choir and joined a gospel singing class run by Patrick Jean-Paul-Dean whose fantastic reputation as a Gospel singer earned him a MOBO Award nomination for Best Gospel. I think it was at that point that I really started to develop and learn to express myself even more. It was with this new confidence that I joined an R&amp;B boy group called Dark Roses. We did loads of shows with very big audiences so you could say I was thrown in the deep end and it was a case of sink or swim. I loved traveling all over the UK with the group and learned so much about performing and the music business.</p>
<p><strong>Jamati: How did you get your lucky break?</strong></p>
<p>I don’t really believe in lucky breaks as such. I have worked very hard and I am very pleased that it is all starting to pay off now. One of the big turning points for me was meeting world renowned producer Wayne Brown. I feel very lucky to have found a special chemistry with Wayne Brown because it led to me recording my debut album “<em>Music is the Food of Love</em>“. I heard a song he produced for Teish O’Day on the radio and just so happened to be with one of my friends who works for a music channel at the time. I said to my friend that if I could work with the producer who made her song then I would start recording again, at this point I had assumed the production was American and that this meeting would never happen.</p>
<p>A few days later I got a surprise email from my friend with the producer’s details and gave him a call. We set up a meeting and I don’t mind admitting that I was very nervous having been out of the game for a little while. It was very daunting working with Wayne because he has worked with Earth Wind and Fire, George Michael, Lulu, Stevie Winwood, Jonathan Butler, Ruby Turner, Billy Ocean and Junior Giscombe to mention a few. I had expected to play him some of my music and take it from there but within minutes of me being there he walked over to his piano and started playing then asked me to just jam with him. As soon as he started playing the music in me took over and I knew there was something special. It is hard to explain but his playing just inspired me so much that the singing was the most natural thing in the world and the nerves quickly went away. After we recorded out first song together and people started to hear it doors started to open for me.</p>
<p><strong><br />
Jamati: How was this transition for you and how much creative input do you have?</strong><br />
I am blessed with VME Records because I still have loads of creative license and I am always consulted on things. For a long time I was out there on my own so it is a big transition to go from working on your own to working with a whole team. I think the main thing is that they buy into me as an artist rather than trying to change me. While I was making my album I was approached by some big labels who had got to know about me on the grapevine but I found they wanted to take me and make me something I am not. Not sure if it was brave or foolish but I decided to stick to my guns and stay true to the music I love. In fact I know it was brave and not foolish because I am very proud of the work I have done. I got into this game because I love music and not to chase fame so it really wouldn’t make sense to start making music that I don’t feel is me.</p>
<p><strong>Jamati: What’s your view on contemporary African music generally?</strong></p>
<p>I think it is an exciting time for African music. In this age of the internet you no longer have to go on a mission to hunt the music down. Just sitting at your computer you can be completely plugged in to the music scene in Africa. I think the added exposure that artists are getting is leading to even more innovation and barrier breaking music.</p>
<p><strong>J</strong><strong>amati: You have worked on some Africa centred projects; are working on any such projects currently?</strong></p>
<p>I recorded a song called “<em>Close to My Roots</em>” with Memphis Bleek. The song was recorded for a project put together by Coptic, one of the producers on my album. The project will explore the hottest sounds from Mama Africa, set against a backdrop of the biggest joints coming from the top echelons of USA Hip-Hop. The innovative blend of acoustic African sounds and Hip Hop drums will present Hip Hop and R&amp;B royalty from both continents bringing a fresh perspective to records that established African music on the world stage such as ‘<em>Been Such a Long Time Gone</em>‘, by Hugh Masekela,<em> ‘Fefe Naa Efe’</em>, by Fela, and<em> ‘Pata Pata’</em>, by Mariam Makeba. Confirmed appearances on the album will come from the unique talents of premiere artists like Memphis Bleek, Black Moon, Smiff N Weston, Dead Prez, R&amp;B artist Rell, and African super stars such as Grammy Award nominated Angélique Kidjo.</p>
<p>As you can imagine I was very keen to get on this project not only because it meant joining a line up of top artists from both Africa and the USA but even more so for the opportunities it may bring to travel to Ghana and fulfill that dream.</p>
<p><strong>Jamati: Any plans of performing in Ghana?</strong></p>
<p>I would love to perform in Ghana. On a personal level it would mean that I finally get a chance to see the place my Grandmother has painted in my mind with her stories, food and photos. On a professional level it would be an opportunity to connect with a music scene that is growing faster than most other places in the world. A place where innovation is happening. With projects like the African Express and Wilberforce 200 I pray the opportunity comes up sooner rather than later.</p>
<p><strong>Jamati: What have been your highlights so far?</strong></p>
<p>Singing at the Commonwealth games was a huge honor and is a memory that will always stay with me. To look out at a sea of people and sing my songs is a buzz that is impossible to top for me. Recently my music has taken me abroad to do perform. In the last few months I have travelled to Norway, Germany, and the USA. There is lots more travel on the horizon and I can’t wait to take the show all over the world. Other highlights are the people I have got to meet and perform with particularly Jimmy Cliff, Beverly Knight and Alexandra O’Neal. I grew up listening to all of their music so had to pinch myself to check I wasn’t dreaming.</p>
<p><strong>Jamati: What is yet to come from David Mensah?</strong></p>
<p>I hope to keep making music that I can be proud of and keep doing shows. As I said before I am not really hunting fame as such. I just love making music and sharing it with people who share my passion for music. Creatively I have so many ideas that I want to get out so I hope to keep getting the wonderful support that I have to continue on this journey. I have just got back from the USA where I was doing shows to promote the album and I have also been to Norway and Germany this year. I am pleased to say I had a fantastic response. There are lots more in the pipeline and dates will be announced soon on my website. On the recording front I am working on collaborations with some pretty major artists. I can’t go into more detail on that at the moment but I am sure you will hear in time.</p>
<p>Interview by: Ameyaw Debrah from Jamati.com</p>
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		<title>Introducing Nana NYC: Ghana’s Gift to New York</title>
		<link>http://www.ghanalinx.com/2009/03/06/introducing-nana-nyc-ghana%e2%80%99s-gift-to-new-york/</link>
		<comments>http://www.ghanalinx.com/2009/03/06/introducing-nana-nyc-ghana%e2%80%99s-gift-to-new-york/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Fri, 06 Mar 2009 22:43:29 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>G.O</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Artists Abroad]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Ghanaian artists]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Ghanaians in Newyork]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[nana nyc]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Nana Yaw Boateng]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[NYC]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://culturelinx.com/ghana/?p=2341</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[Nana Yaw Boateng, alias Nana NYC, is a US based Ghanaian artist making huge waves among Ghanaian communities in US and Europe.  Born in Accra, he spent a few years in Kwahu before migrating to the United States in 1992. He found his love for music early and started playing drums in the church. As [...]]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p><img class="alignleft size-medium wp-image-2342" title="nyc" src="/wp-content/uploads/2009/03/nyc-300x200.jpg" alt="nyc" />Nana Yaw Boateng, alias Nana NYC, is a US based Ghanaian artist making huge waves among Ghanaian communities in US and Europe.  Born in Accra, he spent a few years in Kwahu before migrating to the United States in 1992. He found his love for music early and started playing drums in the church. As a young boy living in the small town of Mpraeso, he was exposed to live band music on the streets every other weekend and at times at funerals. All these honed his passion for music.</p>
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<p>Today, Nana NYC is an all rounded independent artist who defies categorization. He has been featured several DVDs and mix tapes; and produced 3 independent LPs for himself namely ‘<em>Oska Mya vol. 1</em>’ (2002), ‘<em>Oska Mya vol.2</em>’ (2003), and ‘<em>Cold Hearted And Rebellious Towards Suckers Vol. 1</em>’ (2006). His musical influence ranges from people like Nana Ampadu to Amakye Dede, Tupac Shakur, Daddy Lumba, and most of the hip-hop acts in the late 1990’s.  He has worked with  the likes Dwayne Wayans (<em>My Wife And Kids</em>),  Lansky of G.M.P, Jesse West, as well as Frado who has produced for The LOX, MIMS, Dipset, just to name a few. Through the 10 year period of his independent career, his song has been used on a Los Angeles television show and he has made an appearance on BET.</p>
<p>Jamati.com met with the budding Ghanaian artist to talk about is journey so far and what the future holds for him.</p>
<p><strong>Jamati: Why did you leave Ghana for the States?</strong><img class="size-medium wp-image-2343 alignright" title="nyc2" src="/wp-content/uploads/2009/03/nyc2-162x300.jpg" alt="nyc2" /><br />
For as long as I remember, my mother was always away so sometimes I felt so lonely because my father wasn’t around. My mother finally found her way to the United States and when she finally settled down, she sent for my brother, sister and I.</p>
<p><strong>Jamati:What do you miss the most from back home in Ghana?</strong><br />
What I miss most about Ghana is just Ghana itself. My friends, the chop bars, hi-life music, the Ghana football league, fan milk, the yogurt, the shish kebabs, and I can go on and on.<br />
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Jamati: When did you discover your talent as a musician?</strong><br />
I have always loved music. I used to play the drums in several of the churches I used to attend. I really realized that I wanted to be a recording artist when I learned how to record on cassette players; I just used to love how my voice sounded on there. I am an all around musician who is willing to try any type of music as long as I like the rhythm and the ideas that come to mind when I am listening to the rhythm. Often times artists categorizes themselves– not me, I want to run free with my imagination.</p>
<p><strong>Jamati: Why the name Nana NYC?</strong><br />
Well the name Nana because it is my first name. I chose NYC because I traveled to California to work with one of my long time partners, Dwayne Wayans, and he told me about Myspace.com. I never knew about it, so when we tried to make a Nana page, the name was already taken so he added NYC because I came from New York City.</p>
<p><strong>Jamati: When did you start performing?</strong><br />
I used to live in Mpraeso in the late 80’s and every other weekend there were live bands on the street playing. Some were funerals (well most) and some were just church bands. I used to make beats with my mouth by beating my jaw with my hands. People used to crowd around me and watch for hours, of course not without paying. But if we are talking stage performance then it was at Miss Ghana New York 2003, at Herbert H. Lehman College</p>
<p><strong>Jamati: When was your lucky break as an artist?</strong><br />
As far as lucks and breaks, I haven’t had any. I know God put me to do this because I never expected to be a musician but now when I look back at my life, it seems like it was destiny. I have been going through ups and downs and now I am finally here so I know God is with me but no breaks or luck, at least not yet.</p>
<p><strong>Jamati: What have been the challenges?</strong><br />
I live in America and there are different types of people here and I am independent so to make money I must meet everyone’s need. It was tough for an African kid to get recognition. First I had to win over the kids in my neighborhood, and the hardest part was winning over the Ghanaians especially around the early 2000’s. They were not trying to hear a Ghanaian doing hip hop. I have been through so much that I sing and write about anything and everything. My favorite titles are struggle songs.</p>
<p><strong>Jamati: How is the Ghanaian community responding to your music?</strong><br />
As an independent artist, you have to work twice as hard as a signed artist. At the end of each day I go to sleep thanking God because I am progressing and I see it. People have different taste, so I have had people tell me that I am very good and others tell me that I am not that great.</p>
<p><strong>Jamati: How do you keep up with your fans?</strong><br />
I choose to keep the singles that I put out simple because my first market is my own, the Africans in North America. I have been a battle rapper most of my career but before Africans did not want to hear that, so I had to make some type of music to connect with the crowd. Now that I do, I will make some more complicated ones for those who can comprehend.</p>
<p><strong>Jamati: You were featured on BET; How did that happen?</strong><br />
I have been around for a while. I have been grinding for about a decade now. I actually met a guy in the Bronx who happened to be watching music videos on line and ran into mine. He approached me and gave me his number. I called but no one picked up so I forgot about it. I spoke to my mother a few months after and she gave me the same number, when I tried saving it, the phone couldn’t save it because it was already in my phone. From there I hit them up and we had a meeting, I paid my fees and now it is on.</p>
<p><strong>Jamati: What have been the highlights of your music career?</strong><br />
The highlights of my career is basically putting out my own independent mix tapes, and putting together independent shows. The one that comes to mind is when I had one of my songs used on a TV show in LA, thanks to Dwayne Wayans, every time I think about it I smile to this day…m’dubb</p>
<p><strong>Jamati: What do you hope to achieve in the future with your music?</strong><br />
Honestly an artist’s success comes with the connections he or she has. I have made a lot of good and bad connections so I have learned. Now in NYC when you go out to a Ghanaian party you will see hundreds of young people there. When I first started 10 years ago, the 23 year olds now were 13 then. Now there is a market so I am looking for someone I can produce because if I can do all this for, I imagine, someone else.</p>
<p>Source: Jamati Online</p>
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