By: Kenneth Appiah Bani
Ghanaian music legend Samini has set social media ablaze following a passionate online exchange concerning the roots and recognition of the AfroDancehall genre. The celebrated musician, known for pioneering African dancehall, voiced his disappointment over what he perceives as disrespect and erasure of his contribution to the genre’s evolution.
In a series of heated posts on X (formerly Twitter), Samini boldly claimed he inspired both Shatta Wale and Stonebwoy in their musical journeys. He asserted that he directed and produced Stonebwoy’s first album, which he noted was a hit, and that he has always championed the “AfricanDancehall” movement long before AfroDancehall gained popularity.
“I’ve always represented AfricanDancehall my guy. I inspired @shattawalegh to start looking this way lol. Cus I directed and put out @stonebwoy first album and it was a hit lol. I’ve never been mute when it comes to stone… Don’t push me,” Samini tweeted.
This came in response to fans questioning why Samini stayed silent when others mocked the idea of AfroDancehall. A fan alleged that Samini and others distanced themselves from the label until it gained traction, leaving Stonebwoy to push it alone.
Samini didn’t hold back, insisting that AfricanDancehall laid the groundwork for what later became known as AfroDancehall. He stressed that he even advised Stonebwoy to incorporate local dialects like Ewe (Ayigbe) in his music to better connect with fans.
“I’d be lame to claim #AfroDancehall. I saw and inspired it into being with my #AfricanDancehall,” he wrote. “#AfricanDancehall birthed #AfroDancehall.”
However, a response from another X user, downplaying Samini’s influence, seemed to strike a nerve. Samini fired back, calling for people to “put some respect” on his name and warned against stirring tension between him and Stonebwoy.
“Don’t make me and @stonebwoy fight ooo. He knows the truth I beg. DONT. man start vex these foolish newbies,” Samini warned.
This ongoing debate has sparked concern among fans and industry watchers, with many worried it could reignite old tensions between Samini and his former protégé, Stonebwoy. The two artists have had a complicated relationship over the years collaborating at times, but also clashing publicly.
While some fans supported Samini’s claims and called for greater appreciation of his role in shaping the genre, others saw his posts as unnecessary and potentially divisive.
As the dust settles, one thing remains clear: this AfroDancehall conversation has hit a nerve. Whether it will lead to renewed unity or reignite a long-dormant feud remains to be seen.
But for now, fans are hoping both legends stay focused on making music rather than music wars.
