Stonebwoy: My Ghanaian roots hold a special place in my heart

Multiple award-winning Ghanaian Dancehall and Reggae artist, Stonebwoy has disclosed how his Ghanaian roots have influenced his career so far.

He was speaking at the Culture Day event at the University of Professional Studies, Accra on the theme “Bridging Cultures, Shaping Futures”.

According to the dancehall artiste, although he has had the privilege of traveling the world and experiencing various cultures, his roots in Ghana hold a special place in his heart. 

He said “The traditions, rich history, and resilience of my people have profoundly shaped my journey as an artiste. I believe that my cultural background not only informs my artistic expression but also enriches the narratives I share with the world”.

He stressed that music serves as a powerful vehicle for expressing cultural values and storytelling that communicates emotions, traditions, and experiences in ways that words sometimes cannot.

“Through my music, I draw inspiration from Ghanaian rhythms and African themes especially from the Jamaican culture, creating a sound that is both local and universal”

This blend, he stressed, allows him to create melodies and tell stories that resonate with people from diverse cultures, transcending language barriers and forming connections across generations which have resulted in his recognition on the global stage and inspired many young artists to follow suit. 

 Stonebwoy said having been a UPSA student himself, he would like to take the opportunity to advise students to showcase Ghana's richness and diversity through their unique perspectives in whatever field they find themselves. 

“Whether you're in academia, the arts, business, or any other domain, your contributions reflect the vibrancy of our culture. Embrace your role as a bridge between cultures and tell your stories with pride” he emphasized. 

The 2024 Culture Day celebration was hosted by the Centre for International Education and Collaboration; which exists to advance global partnerships, promote internationalization, and enhance cross-cultural understanding at the University of Professional Studies, Accra (UPSA) by facilitating meaningful collaborations with institutions around the globe, hosting international students, and offering diverse study abroad programs.

The programme lineup included cultural dance from six African countries, performances from China and Korea and Jamaica, exhibitions, food sampling, as well as presentations on immigration by the Ghana Immigration Service and a presentation on Mobility opportunities the Ghanaian European Centre. (Read more articles on Stonebwoy:Stonebwoy is ‘Up & Runnin6’ through Afro-Dancehall’s fast lane, Face me in a Dancehall showdown or back down from the throne- Shatta Wale dares Stonebwoy, I did not release ‘Up & Running’ album because of Grammy award – Stonebwoy)

The International students displayed the culture of their country, focusing on food, shelter, fashion, transportation, wildlife, art, geography, religion, important landmarks, and history with performers, representing Nigeria, Equatorial Guinea, and Sierra Leone, dressed in ceremonial or traditional costume from their respective countries.

Notable dignitaries at the event were His Excellency Maher Kheir, Lebanese Ambassador to Ghana and Dean of the Diplomatic Corps, Mr. Divine Owusu-Ansah, representative of the Deputy Minister of Tourism Arts and Culture, Mr. Ben Gomado-Cobblah, Country Director of the Commonwealth Enterprise and investment Council (CWEIC), Mr. Kevoy Burton, President of the Ghana Caribbean Association, Prof. Patience Abor of the University of Ghana Business School.

The others were Mr. Ebenezer Amuasi, Director of International Relations at Wisconsin University, and Prof. John Kwaku Mensah Mawutor, incoming Vice-Chancellor, along with Deans, Directors, and Heads of Departments of UPSA.