Teephlow defends hardcore rap in Ghana

Ghanaian rapper Teephlow has expressed confidence that hardcore rap will remain a vital part of the country’s music scene despite the rising popularity of melodic rap. Speaking in an interview on Hitz FM, Teephlow noted that while many artists, including himself and Kweku Smoke, have incorporated more melodic elements into their music, this shift does not signify a loss of lyrical depth or traditional roots.

Teephlow argued that musical direction should be dictated by the beat and the specific message an artist intends to communicate. He suggested that the evolution of hip-hop should not be mistaken for the disappearance of the genre's hardcore elements. He also called on the media to focus more on the lyrical quality and substance of rap music rather than narrow expectations of its sound.

The rapper praised emerging artists for bringing fresh energy to the genre and acknowledged the foundational contributions of established artists such as Sarkodie, EL, and Jayso. He specifically highlighted Kweku Smoke for his ability to balance melody with relatable storytelling.